The restaurant chain best known for its endless breadsticks, is making a major change in how it operates following a shift in consumer behavior and a successful testing phase.
During an earnings call earlier this month, Olive Garden’s parent company said the company will roll out smaller entrée portions in addition to the existing portions beginning in January.
The restaurant chain will add a new menu section offering seven dishes it already offers but in smaller portions and at lower prices.
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The decision is based on a successful testing phase that led the company to see positive results.
“Olive Garden has seen a double-digit increase in affordability perceptions from guests who order from the lighter portions menu and an increase in frequency among these guests, which should help build traffic over time,” Cardenas said.
“Olive Garden plans to complete the rollout systemwide in January.”
He added the chain’s initial plan was to roll out the smaller portions with smaller price tags throughout 2026 and into 2027, but the results were “doing so well,” that they “just decided to keep going.”
According to Fox Business, Olive Garden started experimenting with smaller portions back in September with the launch of 40% entrées at select locations.
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An Olive Garden spokesperson told the outlet that the new menu will not replace any of the restaurant’s existing offerings but instead serve as another option for guests to choose from.
Menu items that will be offered at a reduced price and portion will include Chicken Parmigiana, Eggplant Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico, Five Cheese Ziti al Forno, Cheese Ravioli, Spaghetti & Meatballs and Fettuccine Alfredo.
Prices for the lighter portions will range from $12.99 to $13.99 though prices may vary by market.