Olive Garden Menu: Ranked & Reviewed
When it comes to Italian-American dining, Olive Garden is a name that's hard to miss. With a menu that's as extensive as it is delicious, it's no wonder that this popular chain has been a staple for so many. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide what to order. That's why we've taken the liberty to rank some of Olive Garden's most popular dishes, based on a mix of customer reviews, critic ratings, and our own taste tests.
Before we dive in, it's important to note that taste is subjective, and what one person loves, another might not. But if you're looking for a starting point, or just curious about what's worth trying, read on. We've categorized our rankings into several sections to help you navigate the vast menu of Olive Garden.
Appetizers & Soups
Kicking off our rankings is the appetizer and soup section. After all, every great meal starts with a great beginning.
Starting strong is the Zuppa Toscana Soup. This hearty soup is packed with potatoes, spicy Italian sausage, kale, and cream, making it a customer favorite. The Calamari also makes a strong showing, with its crispy breading and marinara dipping sauce.
Worth a Try
If you're feeling adventurous, the Fonduta Fritta is a unique appetizer worth trying. It's a blend of Italian cheeses, served with garlic bread for dipping. The Bruschetta is another solid choice, with its toasted bread, tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Pass on This
While the Stuffed Artichokes might sound appealing, many find them to be too salty. The Mushroom Caprese also falls short, with its bland flavors and lackluster presentation.
Entrees
Now, let's move on to the main event: the entrees.
Topping our list is the Chicken Parmesan. This classic dish features breaded chicken, marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and a side of pasta. The Eggplant Parmesan is another standout, offering a vegetarian option that's just as satisfying.
Fan Favorites
The Chicken Alfredo is a fan favorite, with its creamy sauce and fettuccine noodles. The Five Cheese Ziti al Forno is another popular choice, with its blend of cheeses and tomato sauce.
Skip These
While the Tour of Italy might sound appealing, many find the portions to be too small for the price. The Shrimp Scampi also falls short, with its lackluster flavors and overcooked shrimp.
Desserts
No meal is complete without something sweet, and Olive Garden's dessert menu is no exception.
Leading the pack is the Tiramisu. This classic Italian dessert features layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. The Cannoli is another hit, with its crispy shell and sweet ricotta filling.
Worth Sharing
The Lemon Cake is a light and refreshing end to a meal. The Chocolate Lava Cake is another indulgent option, with its molten center and vanilla bean gelato.
Not Worth the Calories
While the Bread Pudding might sound appealing, many find it to be too dry and lacking in flavor. The Tiramisu Cheesecake also falls short, with its lackluster presentation and overly sweet flavors.
And there you have it - our ranked guide to Olive Garden's menu. Whether you're a first-timer or a regular, we hope this list helps you discover your new favorite dish. Buon appetito!