America’s all time favorite chain restaurant, Olive Garden, received its title for a reason – it provides mouth-wateringly scrumptious meals alongside fresh appetizers, all entangled in the beautiful blend that is the Italian kitchen. Putting aside the reasonable pricing and warm family vibe, Olive Garden recently let one of their employees slip several facts out to POPSUGAR. Here are a few company secrets you did not know about one of the most successful businesses in the country:
They Have Been Here For A While: “The first Olive Garden restaurant opened in Orlando in 1982.”
Soups Are Freshly Made Every Day: “All of Olive Garden’s signature soups — Pasta e Fagioli, Chicken & Gnocchi, Zuppa Toscana, and Minestrone — are made by hand and from scratch every morning using fresh, whole ingredients such as kale, peppers, and squash.”
The Most Popular Item On The Menu: “Chicken Alfredo is Olive Garden’s most popular menu item. Shrimp Scampi is also among the best-selling dishes at Olive Garden — it is so flavorful, many guests are surprised to learn the entire entrée is just 500 calories! Out of all the noodle options, Olive Garden guests prefer fettuccine noodles. As far as pasta toppings go, Olive Garden guests love the grilled chicken.”
Authentically Italian: “Every year, more than 200 managers and team members travel to Olive Garden’s Culinary Institute of Tuscany. This trip is designed to immerse team members in the Italian culture while learning about the cuisine and interacting with Olive Garden’s overseas partners, the wineries and pasta makers we consider to be a part of Olive Garden’s extended family.”
Working For Olive Garden Pays Off: “Team members can enjoy $1 unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks and 50 percent off of meals before, during, and after their shift.”
The More, The Merrier: “Olive Garden offers delivery for large parties, weddings, and other events. Olive Garden loves to celebrate with brides around their big day and even created a DIY breadstick bouquet.”
Considerate Of Those Who Have Dietary Needs: “Olive Garden servers will work with guests on any dietary needs. Servers will happily work with guests to address any food allergies or dietary restrictions. In many instances, they can suggest simple swaps — such as subbing in gluten-free rotini or ordering the Chicken Parmigiana grilled instead of fried — so guests can still enjoy their favorite dishes while meeting their individual needs.”
