Olive Garden Expands North: A New Era for Canadian Diners!

Get ready, Canada! Olive Garden, the beloved Italian restaurant chain famous for its unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks, is gearing up for a grand expansion across the Great White North. Currently a staple in all 50 U.S. states, including Hawaii and Alaska, this culinary sensation is finally making its mark in Canada.

Recipe Unlimited Takes the Lead

The exciting news comes as Recipe Unlimited, the powerhouse behind several well-known Canadian dining brands, has acquired the eight existing Olive Garden locations in Western Canada. But that’s not all—Recipe now holds the exclusive rights to open new Olive Garden restaurants across the country!

Frank Hennessey, the CEO of Recipe, expressed his enthusiasm for the brand’s potential, stating, "This acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategy to enhance our presence in casual dining with brands that resonate well with Canadian consumers."

What’s the Secret to Olive Garden’s Success?

For those who haven’t indulged, Olive Garden is renowned for offering unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks with every entree. Diners can even enjoy these delights à la carte, making it a tempting chance to refill on those famous, freshly-baked breadsticks.

Current Locations and Future Expansion Plans!

Currently, Olive Garden operates three locations in Alberta (two in Edmonton and one in Calgary), along with a presence in Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Regina, and Langley, B.C. According to a recent earnings call, Recipe plans to launch an impressive 30 new locations over the next decade! Expect more details as development plans unfold.

A Taste of History: The Olive Garden Journey

Did you know the first Olive Garden opened its doors in Orlando, Florida, in 1982 under the umbrella of General Mills? Since separating into Darden Restaurants in 1995, Olive Garden has blossomed into a culinary icon, boasting over 900 locations in the U.S. alone. Beyond North America, Olive Garden also has eateries in countries like Mexico, Brazil, and even Saudi Arabia!

What’s Next for Olive Garden in Canada?

With a commitment from Recipe’s leadership to expand Olive Garden’s footprint in Canada, the possibilities are tantalizing. As the excitement builds, many are eager to see where the next Olive Garden will pop up. What’s clear is that a wave of Italian cuisine is set to sweep the Canadian dining scene, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled!

Embrace the Flavor!

Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-timer, the upcoming Olive Garden locations promise to deliver the familiar and cherished dining experience that has captured hearts and appetites in the U.S. Get ready, Canada—Olive Garden is here to bring a taste of Italy right to your plate!