What Time Does Olive Garden Open and Close? (Updated)

Craving Italian food and wondering when Olive Garden opens or closes? Knowing their hours can help you plan the perfect meal whether it’s a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner with family. Olive Garden’s schedule varies by location but generally follows a consistent pattern that fits most dining needs.

Whether you’re aiming for a midday break or a cozy evening out you’ll want to check the exact times so you don’t miss out. In this article you’ll find clear details on Olive Garden’s opening and closing hours plus tips on peak times to visit. Getting the timing right means more time enjoying your favorite pasta and less time waiting.

Olive Garden Operating Hours Overview

Olive Garden operates on a schedule that suits various dining preferences, balancing lunchtime and dinner service. Understanding these hours helps you plan your visit without unexpected closures or delays.

Typical Opening Times

Most Olive Garden locations open between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM on weekdays and weekends. This timeframe accommodates your lunchtime plans and early diners. Some restaurants may open slightly earlier or later, depending on local demand or special events.

Typical Closing Times

Olive Garden generally closes between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM during weekdays and weekends. Closing hours might extend on weekends or holidays to meet increased customer flow. Confirming the exact closing time at your local branch prevents missed opportunities for dinner service.

Variations in Hours by Location

You’ll find that Olive Garden’s operating hours vary depending on the specific location. These variations reflect local demand, regional regulations, and seasonal factors.

Weekday vs Weekend Hours

Weekday hours usually start between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM, with most locations closing from 9:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Weekend hours often extend later, with some restaurants staying open until 10:00 PM or later to handle larger dinner crowds. If you prefer less busy times, visiting during weekday lunch is ideal because weekends tend to attract more diners, especially in high-traffic areas.

Holiday Hours and Special Closures

Olive Garden locations may modify hours on major holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day. Most locations either close on these dates or operate on reduced schedules to accommodate staff needs and local regulations. Special closures due to unexpected events or local mandates can occur, so checking your local restaurant’s website or calling ahead provides the most accurate information.

How to Find Your Local Olive Garden Hours

Finding your local Olive Garden hours helps you plan visits efficiently. Hours vary by location, so verifying the schedule ensures accurate timing.

Using the Official Website

Access Olive Garden’s official website to find hours by entering your city, state, or ZIP code. The site displays the specific opening and closing times for each location, including holiday hours when available. The information updates regularly, giving you the most reliable source for current schedules and any temporary changes.

Checking Through Mobile Apps and Third-Party Sites

Use mobile apps like Google Maps, Yelp, or Apple Maps to view Olive Garden hours near you. These platforms list hours alongside customer reviews and additional details like wait times. Keep in mind that third-party sites occasionally show outdated hours, so cross-reference with the official website or call the restaurant directly to confirm.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

Planning your visit around Olive Garden’s hours ensures a smooth dining experience. Use these tips to avoid long waits and enjoy your meal comfortably.

Best Times to Avoid Crowds

Choose weekday lunch hours between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to find fewer diners and quicker service. Early weekdays after lunch, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, also see lighter crowds compared to dinner times. Avoid weekends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, as many locations experience peak dinner traffic then. Consider dining early on weekends, around opening time, if you want to skip the busiest periods.

Making Reservations and Walk-Ins

Reserve a table online or by phone to secure your spot during peak hours, especially on weekends and holidays. Many Olive Garden locations accept reservations for dinner but offer walk-ins during lunch and off-peak times. Arrive at least 10 minutes early for your reservation to ensure timely seating. If you plan to walk in during busy hours, expect potential wait times that vary from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the location and day.

Conclusion

Knowing Olive Garden’s typical hours helps you plan your visit without surprises. Since hours can vary by location and season, checking your local restaurant’s schedule ensures you arrive when they’re open and ready to serve.

By choosing less busy times and considering reservations, you can enjoy a smoother dining experience. Use official sources for the most accurate hours and stay flexible around holidays or special events. This way, you’ll get the most out of your Olive Garden visit every time.