Olive Garden’s New Never-Ending Pasta Deal Is Back—Here’s How to Get Unlimited Bowls Before It Sells Out

Olive Garden Introduces “Lighter Portion” Menu at 40% of U.S. Locations Italian-American favorite Olive Garden is piloting a new “lighter portion” section aimed at value-conscious diners without sacrificing its trademark hospitality. The test, confirmed during Darden Restaurants’ latest earnings call, features seven core entrées—think Fettuccine Alfredo and Chicken Parmigiana—served in smaller sizes and paired with the brand’s unlimited soup or salad and famous breadsticks, all at a lower price point than the full-size plates. Why Olive Garden Is Shrinking Plates but Growing Traffic • Affordability boost: Company executives say restaurants offering the lighter options saw customer “affordability scores” jump 15%, with same-unit traffic up nearly 3% during the pilot period. • Sales momentum: Parent company Darden reported Olive Garden same-store sales rising 5.9% in its most recent fiscal quarter, crediting menu innovation and first-party delivery expansion for the gain. • Portion flexibility: CEO Rick Cardenas told investors the move broadens price points “so consumers can choose” while keeping “abundant” servings for guests who want the traditional platter. What Diners Get 1. Seven reduced-size classics (exact lineup may vary by market). 2. Unlimited breadsticks plus soup or salad included. 3. Availability at dinner on weekdays and all day on weekends during the test. How to Find Participating Restaurants About 40% of Olive Garden’s 900-plus U.S. units are currently in the trial. Guests can check the chain’s mobile app or call their local restaurant to see if lighter portions are offered before arriving. Industry Context Consumers continue to tighten restaurant budgets as menu prices climb nationwide. By pairing smaller entrées with its unlimited add-ons, Olive Garden positions itself as an affordable “occasion” splurge while defending traffic against fast-casual competitors. Analysts say the chain’s massive portion perception has long been both a selling point and a potential deterrent for lighter eaters; the new menu could capture those skipping visits due to portion fatigue. What’s Next Olive Garden has not committed to a national rollout, but positive guest feedback and incremental traffic gains may accelerate expansion. Look for updates on the lighter portion test—and any accompanying limited-time promotions—when Darden releases its next quarterly results.