30+ Dark secrets the Olive Garden staff don’t want you to know

Olive Garden, famous for its Italian-American fare, reportedly harbors secrets that staff prefer to keep from diners, such as specific recipes or behind-the-scenes kitchen practices. These undisclosed details add a layer of mystery to the dining experience at this popular restaurant chain. Let’s begin!

They really hate the music

The constant loop of cheesy and cliché music, particularly “That’s Amore,” is borderline traumatizing for many employees. Despite its intended aesthetic, there’s a unanimous desire for a change among staff who really, REALLY dislike this music!

Those decorative wine bottles are full

Here’s the lowdown, but keep it on the down low: those decorative wine bottles scattered around the restaurant? They’re actually full, and some are surprisingly good! Word on the street is that after a grueling shift, a few employees might discreetly snag one at day’s end. We’re not endorsing any thievery, but hey, we understand the temptation.

They never get tired of breadsticks

Honestly, I can totally relate, and if I were on the staff, I’d feel the same. According to employees, the most enjoyable aspect of working at Olive Garden is having unlimited access to breadsticks during every shift. It might pose a risk to cholesterol levels, but it seems like a fantastic remedy for emotional well-being, doesn’t it?

Your manager has tons of power

The consensus among nearly all employees is that while Olive Garden may not fulfill the criteria for a dream job, the pivotal factor lies in the quality of the manager. According to them, a competent manager has the potential to transform the job into a highly enjoyable and fun experience, while a poor manager can significantly diminish job satisfaction. This perspective underscores the importance of effective leadership. Additionally, employees noted a positive team dynamic when the leadership is strong.

Hopefully you like the smell

According to employees, after finishing a shift at Olive Garden, you’re guaranteed to carry the unmistakable scent of the restaurant. Essentially, it’s as if garlic is seeping through your pores, and you might feel akin to a block of parmesan cheese. While there are arguably worse odors to carry, perhaps a good idea to freshen up, especially by washing your hair before bedtime.

You could be waiting a LONG time

Arriving at Olive Garden and being informed of a 15-20 minute wait generally indicates a manageable timeframe. However, if the estimate extends to 45 minutes, it might surpass that duration. It appears that this specific time increment is used when the staff is uncertain about the actual wait time but wishes to discourage customers from seeking alternatives elsewhere.

Tipping the host/hostess doesn’t work

While you may have seen tipping for a quicker table on TV shows and movies, in reality, attempting to tip the host or hostess for a faster seating won’t work. They are not permitted to accept money for such purposes, and it won’t hasten the process for you. In these situations, patience is indeed the key virtue to rely on. :)

Self-presentation is important

While Olive Garden maintains a relatively lenient stance on self-presentation, there are specific rules in place. Employees are required to adhere to the standard uniform. One notable restriction highlighted by many staff members is the prohibition of wearing a lip ring during shifts. This policy is attributed to considerations of hygiene and maintaining a certain appearance.

Andes mints are a great pick-me-up

In line with the joy of unlimited breadsticks, employees express their fondness for grabbing a handful of Andes mints at the host/hostess stand. According to them, it serves as the ideal little pick-me-up during a shift, offering a delightful combination of sugar and chocolate goodness. The temptation is so strong that some confess they would likely devour an entire bowlful if given the chance.

The chicken isn’t real

According to reports, Olive Garden underwent a change in the source of their chicken approximately seven years ago. The previous chicken was considered of relatively good quality. However, it is alleged that the new chicken is not 100% chicken, and sources claim that the chicken used in the never-ending pasta bowl is sourced from a can.

Can’t prove this one, but…

There are claims, albeit unverified, suggesting the presence of bugs in Olive Garden’s salad. The validity of these statements remains uncertain, and it’s unclear how much of it might be exaggerated due to the nature of dealing with produce. An employee has mentioned discovering caterpillars and spiders in the salad mix, with the hopeful note that proper washing is conducted before serving.

The best menu item

Without a doubt, the breadsticks at Olive Garden are often considered the pinnacle in terms of taste and quality. Notably, these breadsticks are not frozen; instead, they are stored in dry storage. According to employees, the exceptional quality of ingredients and flavor makes the breadsticks stand out as the prime choice on the menu.

The sections of the restaurant are named after wines

The ambiance of Olive Garden embraces the Italian tradition of pairing good pasta with the perfect wine. In line with this theme, the restaurant has named sections after wines to aid servers in memorization. For instance, you might hear something like “Table 43 is available in ‘Pinot Noir.'” It adds a cute and thematic touch to the overall dining experience.

The restaurants had an outbreak of Norovirus

In 2006, Olive Garden faced a significant challenge when an outbreak of Norovirus occurred, leading to the illness of at least 373 customers. Norovirus is known for causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, creating an unpleasant experience for those affected. Compounding the issue, the virus is contracted by consuming food contaminated with feces or vomit from an infected person, adding an extra layer of discomfort to the situation.

The food isn’t particularly healthy

While most people don’t sit down to a bowl of pasta thinking about its health implications, Olive Garden’s pasta is noted for containing a significant amount of gluten, calories, and sodium. Consuming it may leave you feeling bloated or tired afterward. Numerous customers have reported experiencing stomach aches after indulging in generous servings, underscoring the potential impact of the dish on digestive comfort.

The job requires a LOT of patience

While the perks include the love for unlimited breadsticks and access to delicious food, working at Olive Garden demands a considerable amount of patience. Like many service industry jobs, the role involves delightful interactions with guests, but it also comes with its challenges. Dealing with customers who leave poor tips, exhibit rude and demanding behavior, or speak condescendingly adds an extra layer of difficulty to the job, making patience an essential quality for those in the service industry.

They microwave a lot

According to another former employee, there is a claim—though potentially stemming from disgruntlement—that the food at Olive Garden is not freshly made to order. Allegedly, various components, including vegetables, sauces, and at times even meat, are frequently microwaved and then plated. This assertion suggests a potential deviation from the expectation of freshly prepared dishes at the restaurant.

You can’t just eat free breadsticks

There was a point in time when Olive Garden considered implementing a limit on their famous breadsticks. However, rather than enforcing a strict cap, the restaurant opted for a system to discourage patrons from coming in solely for the breadsticks and then leaving. As part of this strategy, servers are instructed not to bring a second basket of breadsticks until customers have placed their orders. In fact, they are not supposed to bring any until orders have been placed to maintain a balance in the dining experience.

Employees have reported “mystery cheese”

A former employee hinted at a mystery surrounding the sourcing of cheeses at Olive Garden. Some staff members suggest a potential link between the quality of the food, especially the cheeses, and the likelihood of experiencing stomach discomfort. This perspective goes beyond over-indulgence, raising questions about the overall ingredient quality at Olive Garden.

They sort of send the chefs to cooking school

Olive Garden indeed sends certain chefs to Tuscany for cooking school, but it’s not as one might expect. These chefs don’t attend a traditional Tuscan school; instead, Olive Garden arranges a more relaxed and orchestrated experience for them. The cooking school in Tuscany is curated by Olive Garden itself, providing a unique and tailored learning opportunity for the select chefs.

This is the worst item on the menu

Consensus among employees suggests that if you’re looking for a healthier option, it’s advisable to steer clear of the chicken scampi. This recommendation is based on the dish’s notably high fat and salt content, along with concerns about the quality of the chicken not being the best or entirely real. As an alternative, they recommend opting for the Fettuccini Alfredo for a potentially more satisfying choice.

This will be your favorite spot

It appears that the most significant perk of working at Olive Garden is the access to the food, and that alone is enticing enough to consider applying. According to employees, the dessert fridge is particularly impressive and becomes a favorite spot, especially after a stressful shift. The idea of indulging in everything it has to offer is tempting — a sentiment many might share!

This can’t be true

A former Olive Garden employee has raised concerns about a slug problem, particularly around the soda machine. According to this individual, they had to remove slugs from the machine before filling up drinks, and the issue was allegedly ignored by the managers. If accurate, this situation raises significant hygiene and maintenance concerns. Yikes indeed!

You have to be ready to work

Servers have described Olive Garden as an extremely fast-paced environment. Slow shifts are considered rare, so expect to be constantly on your feet, moving, talking, and carrying heavy trays. Servers humorously refer to themselves as the Olympians of waitstaff, indicating the physically demanding and high-energy nature of the job.

The fillers might have plastic

Regrettably, reports suggest that this concern is likely prevalent in various establishments nowadays, even those considered high-end. The issue is often attributed to processing methods, and many fillers, regardless of the setting, may contain tiny, microscopic bits of plastic. The less-than-appetizing revelation highlights a broader concern in the food industry.

There are lots of work crushes

The waitstaff at Olive Garden often finds it enjoyable to flirt with each other. The all-black uniforms contribute to a good appearance, fostering a fun atmosphere during shifts. Work crushes, inside jokes, and cute moments make the job more enjoyable for the staff.

Some employees might not do a great job with hygiene

While there’s ample discussion about the delectable food accessible to employees, some reports suggest that certain individuals may take advantage of this perk in an unsanitary manner. There have been claims that some employees use their fingers to pick at toppings and consume them during their shifts without adhering to proper hand hygiene practices.

It gets worse

Further investigation has revealed that Olive Garden reportedly removed the sanitizing wipes that many servers used. This has led to concerns that some servers may neglect to wash their hands after handling food or touching various objects, potentially compromising hygiene standards when serving customers.

They dread the dinner time rush

The dinner rush at Olive Garden is described by employees as intense, with a packed lobby and hungry customers. Servers often have the challenging job of informing patrons about wait times exceeding an hour. It highlights the need for customers to be considerate and kind to the service staff dealing with the demands of peak hours.

Wikimedia Commons
Source:

Wikimedia Commons

But when you’re here, your family

Employees at Olive Garden remain committed to the restaurant’s motto, striving to provide every customer with the best possible experience. Even during busy and challenging times, they aim to create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring patrons feel at home, as if enjoying a meal with their family.

It was founded in Florida, not Italy

Despite embodying Italian food and culture in its identity, Olive Garden wasn’t founded in Italy; rather, it originated in Florida, USA. In 1982, the restaurant was established by the company General Mills, which also owns various other chains. While it may strive for an Italian ambiance, its roots trace back to the United States.

They ALMOST cut down on breadsticks

Olive Garden’s famed breadsticks are a major draw for patrons, attracting them 99.9% of the time. Surprisingly, there was a moment when the restaurant contemplated reducing the provision of breadsticks. This consideration arose from concerns about the financial impact of offering unlimited breadsticks. Fortunately, they opted not to eliminate them entirely, preserving the beloved breadsticks that contribute significantly to Olive Garden’s appeal.

There’s a rule how many breadsticks you get

While there isn’t a stringent rule regarding breadsticks, servers at Olive Garden adhere to a policy concerning their distribution. Typically, servers are instructed to provide one breadstick per person at the table, along with an additional one, for the initial basket. Subsequent to the first round, they are directed to bring only one breadstick per person.

They know how to deal with a breadstick scam

For those contemplating a strategy of indulging solely in free breadsticks to secure a free meal, Olive Garden is one step ahead. The restaurant has measures in place to prevent such attempts. Servers are instructed not to bring additional complimentary breadsticks beyond the first round until customers have officially placed an order.

Get free stuff through the rewards app

An interesting tidbit: Did you know that Olive Garden offers free items through their official app? If you’re a frequent visitor, it’s worth downloading the app to enjoy a variety of complimentary goodies. The rewards may include free appetizers, and you even get a free dessert on your birthday!

You can use the rewards at other restaurants

In addition to the perks of Olive Garden’s app rewards, it’s noteworthy that these benefits extend beyond just Olive Garden. The rewards accumulated through the app can be utilized at other restaurants within the Darden ownership umbrella. With a variety of six different restaurants under the Darden brand, patrons have the flexibility to enjoy these deals at a range of dining establishments.

Use more than one coupon if you split the bill

A savvy tip for maximizing savings at Olive Garden: Rather than having one person pay the entire bill and then sorting out individual contributions later, consider splitting the bill. This strategy allows each person to apply a coupon to their portion of the payment, potentially resulting in more substantial savings. By using a coupon per portion payment, diners can optimize their discounts and enjoy a more cost-effective dining experience.

There’s a specific time that’s the best time to eat

For those seeking the best deals at Olive Garden, here’s a pro tip: If you can manage to visit during off-peak hours, specifically between 3pm and 5pm from Monday to Friday, you might score some fantastic deals on food. While this timing might be challenging for those with a standard 9-5 work schedule, it could be a strategic choice for those looking to take advantage of special offers and enjoy a more budget-friendly dining experience.

They salt the pasta water

Contrary to the traditional Italian practice of salting pasta water, Olive Garden opts for a different approach. In their kitchen, they refrain from adding salt to the pasta water entirely. This deviation from the customary method is attributed to concerns about the potential impact on the lifespan of their cooking pots.

The desserts are frozen

Indulging in the delectable desserts at Olive Garden is a treat, but here’s a behind-the-scenes insight: those tempting desserts are actually frozen, not freshly made. However, the silver lining is that while the desserts may be frozen, there are other menu items at Olive Garden that are prepared fresh, providing a mix of culinary experiences for patrons.

It’s not an authentic menu

Despite Olive Garden’s Italian-inspired ambiance, it’s essential to note that the restaurant originated in the USA, not Italy. Consequently, while the dishes draw inspiration from Italian cuisine, the offerings may not always align with authentic Italian recipes.

Customize your meals

For those who may not be aware, customization is welcomed at Olive Garden. If a menu item isn’t quite hitting the mark, customers have the flexibility to tailor their meals to their preferences. As long as the restaurant has the necessary ingredients available, patrons can request personalized variations, including options that may no longer be featured on the standard menu.

You can bring your own wine

Olive Garden embraces wine enthusiasts and offers a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) option for customers who wish to enjoy their own wine selection. To facilitate this, the restaurant charges a corkage fee of approximately $7, making it a cost-effective choice compared to purchasing a bottle directly from the establishment.

You can order Italian Soda – but it won’t be on the menu

For a caffeine-free and refreshing beverage option, Olive Garden offers Italian soda, a secret menu item not officially listed. While not prominently featured on the menu, you can request an Italian soda, and the restaurant should be able to prepare this delightful drink for you. It’s a great alternative for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option or simply want to try something off the beaten path.

They even have a free wine tasting

Olive Garden takes pride in its extensive wine selection, boasting over 25 different wine flavors that cater to various preferences, from light to full-bodied. To showcase their diverse offerings, the restaurant even offers complimentary wine tastings, allowing patrons to experience the range of flavors available. It’s a great way for wine enthusiasts to explore and find the perfect complement to their meal.

Olive Garden is pretty hated for some reason

Despite the fame of their beloved breadsticks, Olive Garden has faced criticism on social media and the internet. Many express concerns about the restaurant being perceived as overpriced and serving poor-quality “authentic” Italian food. Some argue that independent restaurants may offer better alternatives in terms of both quality and authenticity.

A food critic went famous for praising Olive Garden for a strange reason

Contrary to expectations, when food critic Marilyn Hagerty wrote a positive review of Olive Garden, it went viral. Instead of attracting harsh criticism, the review gained attention for its genuine praise of the restaurant. The viral response was a departure from the anticipated negative reception by food critics, highlighting the unpredictability of public reactions to restaurant reviews.

It was actually an instant success

Olive Garden enjoyed immediate success upon its opening in Orlando, Florida, achieving rapid sales that matched those of Red Lobster. This early triumph contributed to the restaurant’s establishment as a popular dining destination.

The original appeal was salad – not breadsticks

Surprisingly, it wasn’t the famous breadsticks but rather the allure of unlimited salad that initially drew people to Olive Garden. The prospect of endless servings of salad proved to be a major attraction for customers.

You can buy a bottle of the salad dressing from your server

Regardless of opinions on salads, many agree that the salad dressing at Olive Garden is a standout feature. Interestingly, you can purchase this dressing directly from the restaurant by simply asking your server, making it a convenient way to enjoy the flavor at home.

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