What Time Does Olive Garden Open and Close? (Updated)
If you’re planning a visit to Olive Garden you’ll want to know exactly when they open and close. Whether you’re craving a hearty Italian lunch or a relaxing dinner the restaurant’s hours can help you schedule your day better. Knowing the times also helps you avoid long waits and catch any special meal deals or happy hours they might offer.
Olive Garden’s hours can vary by location but most follow a consistent schedule that fits both weekday and weekend diners. In this article you’ll find clear details on their typical opening and closing times so you can plan your visit with confidence. Plus we’ll share tips on peak hours and how to make the most of your dining experience.
What Time Does Olive Garden Open and Close?
Olive Garden typically opens at 11:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM from Monday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, hours extend to 11:00 PM to accommodate weekend diners. Sundays open at 11:00 AM but close earlier at 9:00 PM.
Hours may vary by location, so checking your local Olive Garden’s schedule is crucial for accuracy. Peak dining times fall between 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for lunch and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for dinner, with higher wait times during these periods. Arriving outside these windows offers quicker seating and a more relaxed experience.
The consistent opening time across locations enables you to plan visits for lunch or early dinner conveniently. Closing times provide ample opportunity for late dining, especially on weekends when extending an evening out remains an option.
Typical Operating Hours of Olive Garden
Knowing Olive Garden’s operating hours helps you plan visits to avoid wait times and enjoy meals during less busy periods. Hours vary by day and slightly by location but follow a common weekly pattern.
Weekday Hours
Olive Garden opens at 11:00 AM Monday through Thursday and closes at 10:00 PM these days. Lunch service peaks between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, while dinner is busiest from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Arriving before or after these windows improves seating speed and dining comfort.
Weekend Hours
Operating from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays extends dinner opportunities. Sundays offer shorter hours, closing at 9:00 PM. Peak weekend dining still falls within lunchtime from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Planning visits outside these times reduces wait times on busy weekend days.
Factors That May Affect Olive Garden’s Opening and Closing Times
Several factors influence Olive Garden’s hours, so you should check your local restaurant’s schedule before planning your visit.
Location Variations
Location plays a significant role in Olive Garden’s opening and closing times. Restaurants in urban areas often open earlier and close later compared to those in suburban or rural settings. Some locations inside malls or shopping centers follow the complex’s hours, which may differ on weekends or holidays. Checking your specific Olive Garden location’s website or calling ahead ensures accurate hours.
Holidays and Special Events
Holidays and special events impact Olive Garden’s schedule. On major holidays like Christmas Day or Thanksgiving, many locations close entirely or operate with limited hours. Special local events or city-wide regulations can also alter hours. Reservations and peak hours might be harder to manage during these times, so verifying hours in advance helps avoid inconvenience.
How to Check Your Local Olive Garden’s Hours
Confirming your local Olive Garden’s hours ensures timely visits and avoids unexpected closures. Use reliable sources for the most accurate and current information.
Using the Official Website
Visit Olive Garden’s official website and use the restaurant locator feature. Enter your city, state, or ZIP code to find your nearest location. Each listing shows daily opening and closing times, including holiday hours if available. The site updates regularly, reflecting temporary changes, such as special events or maintenance closures.
Using Third-Party Apps and Websites
Use popular apps like Google Maps, Yelp, or TripAdvisor to check Olive Garden hours. These platforms list hours alongside customer reviews and photos. Hours shown often come from user submissions, so verify with the official site in cases of discrepancy. Mobile apps provide quick access on the go and sometimes include live updates or wait time estimates.
Conclusion
Knowing Olive Garden’s typical hours and how they can vary helps you plan your visit with ease. Checking your local location’s schedule ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on your favorite dishes or face unexpected closures. By timing your visit outside peak hours, you can enjoy a more relaxed dining experience with shorter waits.
Taking a moment to verify hours online or by phone means your trip to Olive Garden will be smooth and enjoyable every time. With a little planning, you can make the most of your meal and savor every moment at this popular Italian restaurant.