Olive Garden Happy Hour Time and Menu 2026

Olive Garden Happy Hour in 2026 offers guests a chance to enjoy Italian-inspired dishes and drinks at lower prices. The afternoon specials make it easy for visitors to relax, socialize, and enjoy quality food and beverages without spending much.

The restaurant’s warm, relaxed atmosphere adds to the experience. Guests can dine in a space that feels welcoming and comfortable, whether they are meeting friends after work or sharing a casual meal with family.

Best Olive Garden Menu Items During “Happy Hour Time”

Appetizers (Best for Sharing)

These are the top crowd favorites and best value orders:

• Fried Mozzarella—Crispy, cheesy, and perfect with marinara
• Lasagna Fritta – Fried pasta bites with Alfredo & meat sauce
• Stuffed Ziti Fritta—Creamy, crunchy, and shareable
• Calamari—Lightly fried, great with drinks

Best Pick: Fried Mozzarella—universally loved and filling

Unlimited Breadsticks & Dips

• Complimentary unlimited breadsticks with dine-in meals
• Pair with marinara or Alfredo dipping sauce for extra flavor

Breadsticks are the best free value item, especially during off-peak hours.

Lighter Entrées (Great for Early Evening)

If you want something filling but not heavy:

• Fettuccine Alfredo (Lunch Portion)
• Spaghetti with Marinara
• Cheese Ravioli
• Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

Best Value: Spaghetti with Marinara – simple, affordable, and satisfying

Drinks & Alcohol Options

Olive Garden offers a full bar, but prices are usually standard, not discounted:

• House wine (red or white)
• Italian margarita
• Classic cocktails
• Beer selection (varies by location)

No guaranteed drink discounts, even during late afternoon.

Happy Hour Time

Olive Garden offers weekday Happy Hour deals focused on Italian flavors and casual dining. Guests can enjoy discounted appetizers and drinks in a relaxed setting perfect for after-work gatherings.

Featured Bites and Sips

The Happy Hour menu includes small plates and shareable items that balance flavor and value. Each dish reflects Olive Garden’s Italian roots, and the Olive Garden Menu highlights these familiar tastes and simple ingredients.

Appetizer Choices:

• Crispy Risotto Bites – Fried golden brown with a soft center.
• Parmesan Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus topped with melted Parmesan.
• Chicken Meatballs – Seasoned and served with a light layer of sauce.
• Tortellini al Forno – Cheese-stuffed pasta baked with a creamy topping.

Drink Deals

Guests can choose from a list of $5 wines such as Porta Vita Bianco, Rosato, and Rosso.
Beers like Bud Light and Miller Lite cost about $4.
Classic and Italian-inspired cocktails include:

• Mango Martini – $5
• Long Island Limoncello – $5
• Red Citrus Spritzer – $5
• Traditional Margarita – $6

Endless Pasta Bowl (Seasonal Offer)

For a limited time, diners can enjoy endless pasta, breadsticks, and their choice of soup or salad for $13.99 per person. Protein add-ons such as meatballs, Italian sausage, or crispy chicken fritta are available for an extra $4.99.

Menu Standouts

Popular items like Lasagna Fritta, Crispy Calamari, Bruschetta, and Spinach-Artichoke Dip highlight the Happy Hour selection. Affordable prices and a mix of house wines, signature cocktails, and discounted appetizers make this schedule a budget-friendly way to enjoy Olive Garden specials.

Standard Hours of Operation (2026)

Most locations open daily at 11:00 AM. From Monday to Thursday, they usually close at 10:00 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, closing time often extends to 11:00 PM to accommodate evening guests. Sundays typically return to the 11:00 AM–10:00 PM schedule.

Hours may differ by location, so guests should verify details with their local restaurant.

How Olive Garden Began

Olive Garden started in Orlando, Florida, in 1982 under General Mills. In 1995, ownership shifted to Darden Restaurants. Today, the chain has grown to more than 900 locations worldwide, while continuing to focus on friendly, approachable Italian-American dining.