Olive Garden Lunch Menu 2026: Prices, Hours & Specials
There’s something comforting about walking into Olive Garden on a Tuesday afternoon, knowing you’re about to get unlimited breadsticks and a hot bowl of soup without breaking the bank. I’ve been hitting up my local Olive Garden for lunch runs more times than I’d like to admit, and honestly? It’s become my go-to spot when I need a satisfying midday meal that doesn’t feel like fast food.
The Olive Garden lunch menu has always been a solid option for anyone looking to stretch their dollar while still getting that sit-down restaurant experience. Whether you’re meeting a friend, taking a break from errands, or just treating yourself between shifts, their lunch offerings hit different than the dinner menu both in portion size and price.
Olive Garden Lunch Menu (2026 Updated)
The Olive Garden lunch menu is basically a streamlined version of their regular menu, designed to get you fed and happy without the wait or the hefty dinner prices. You’ll find a mix of lighter portions, combination deals, and yes those famous lunch specials that keep people coming back.
Lasagna Classico
$11.99 | 500 Calories
Chicken Parmigiana
$11.99 | 630 Calories
Fettuccine Alfredo (V)
$10.99 | 650 Calories
Shrimp Scampi
$11.99 | 460 Calories
Spaghetti
$10.99 | 360 Calories
Eggplant Parmigiana (V)
$10.99 | 660 Calories
Spaghetti & Meatballs
$11.99 | 680 Calories
Cheese Ravioli
$10.99 | 500 Calories
Five Cheese Ziti al Forno
$10.99 | 630 Calories
Soup, Salad and Breadsticks | Lunch
$9.99 | 500 Calories
What makes lunch at Olive Garden different from dinner isn’t just the prices. The portions are typically a bit smaller (though still generous by most standards), and the focus is on quick classics rather than elaborate multi-course meals.
You’re looking at pastas, soups, salads, and sandwiches that deliver on flavor without leaving you in a food coma for the rest of the day.
Olive Garden Lunch Hours 2026
Here’s where things get a little tricky, and honestly, it’s the number one question I get asked: “What time does Olive Garden serve lunch?”
| Day | Lunch Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Call ahead if you’re planning a weekend lunch trip and you’re counting on those lunch prices. I learned this the hard way when I showed up on a Saturday expecting my usual soup and breadstick deal, only to find out I was looking at dinner menu prices.
Also, keep in mind that hours can vary by location. Some restaurants in tourist-heavy areas or shopping districts might extend lunch hours.
Olive Garden $X Lunch Deals
Now, Olive Garden doesn’t always have a specific “$6 lunch” or “$8 lunch” promotion running like they used to back in the day, but they do occasionally roll out limited-time value deals, especially during slower months like January and February.
In early 2026, I’ve seen some locations advertising “Lunch for Under $10” promotions, which usually include select pasta dishes and the soup/salad/breadstick combo. These aren’t always advertised nationally, so it’s worth checking your local Olive Garden’s website or asking your server when you sit down.
If you’re a rewards member (more on that in a sec), you’ll sometimes get exclusive access to lunch discounts or early-bird specials that aren’t available to walk-in guests.
Can You Order Olive Garden Lunch for Takeout or Delivery?
Yes, absolutely. Olive Garden offers both takeout and delivery for lunch, and honestly, it travels pretty well compared to some other Italian spots.
Takeout: You can order online, through their app, or by calling your local restaurant. I’ve done takeout dozens of times, and the food holds up fine for the drive home. Just know that breadsticks might lose a little of their magic by the time you get them—they’re best fresh and warm.
Delivery: Olive Garden partners with DoorDash, Uber Eats, and sometimes Grubhub depending on your area. Delivery fees and markups can add $5 to $10 to your total, so keep that in mind. The lunch specials are usually available for delivery, but double-check because some promotions are dine-in only.
One tip: If you order soup, make sure it’s packed well. I’ve had a couple of spills in the past, so I always add a note asking them to secure the lids.
Olive Garden Lunch Menu FAQs
Does Olive Garden serve lunch on weekends?
It depends on the location. Most spots don’t offer the discounted lunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays, but some do. Call ahead to confirm.
What time does Olive Garden stop serving lunch?
Typically between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays. After that, you’re looking at dinner menu pricing.
Is unlimited soup and salad available at lunch?
Yes! It’s one of the best lunch deals they offer, starting around $8.99.
Can I use coupons during lunch?
Usually, yes. Most Olive Garden coupons work during lunch hours unless the fine print says otherwise.
Do lunch portions come with breadsticks?
Yes, breadsticks are unlimited with any dine-in meal, lunch or dinner.
Are lunch prices the same everywhere?
No, prices vary by location. Expect to pay a bit more in major cities and tourist areas.
Can I order from the lunch menu at dinner time?
Nope. The lunch menu is only available during designated lunch hours, typically until mid-afternoon.
Conclusion
Olive Garden lunch is still one of the better casual dining values out there, especially if you know how to work the menu.
Are the portions smaller than dinner? Sure. But unless you’re absolutely starving, the lunch sizes are plenty for most people. And when you factor in unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks, you’re really getting a lot for your money.
In 2026, with so many fast-casual spots charging $12 to $15 for a bowl of something, getting a hot pasta dish with unlimited sides for around the same price feels like a win.
