18 Insider Olive Garden Hacks Connecticuters Swear Actually Work
Love Olive Garden but want to get the most bang for your buck?
Connecticut locals have discovered some clever ways to enhance their dining experience at this popular Italian chain.
Whether you’re craving endless breadsticks or looking to customize your pasta, these insider tricks will transform your next Olive Garden visit into something truly special.
1. Ask for Extra Sauce
Running out of sauce halfway through your pasta is a total bummer! Savvy diners know you can request additional sauce without any extra charge.
Most servers are happy to bring you a small bowl on the side, letting you control exactly how saucy you want each bite to be. Perfect for sauce lovers who always need a little extra!
2. Take Advantage of “Buy One, Take One”
Smart shoppers wait for this amazing promotional deal that happens several times throughout the year. Purchase one dinner entrée at regular menu price, and you’ll get a second entrée to take home completely free!
Plan your visit during these promotions to essentially get two meals for the price of one. Your wallet will thank you later!
3. Order Kids’ Meals as an Adult
Who says adults can’t enjoy kid-sized portions? Many Connecticut Olive Garden regulars order from the children’s menu to get perfectly portioned meals at a fraction of the cost.
While some locations might have age restrictions, friendly servers often accommodate the request. You’ll get the same delicious food in a more manageable size that won’t break the bank!
4. Ask for Dressing on the Side
Want to control how much dressing goes on your salad? Just ask your server to bring the famous Olive Garden dressing in a separate container.
Not only does this prevent soggy lettuce if you’re taking leftovers home, but you can also save extra dressing for future meals. Some regulars even purchase bottles of the dressing to enjoy at home!
5. Get a Free Birthday Dessert
Planning an Olive Garden visit during your birthday month? Make sure to mention it’s your special day when you arrive!
Join their eClub before your visit to receive a complimentary dessert coupon. Connecticut locals swear by this sweet deal! Nothing beats a free slice of Black Tie Mousse Cake or Tiramisu to celebrate another trip around the sun.
6. Swap Sides for Soup or Salad
Did you know many entrées come with sides that can be swapped out? Instead of the standard side, ask for their famous soup or salad instead.
Local fans particularly recommend substituting for the Zuppa Toscana soup when available. Most servers are happy to make this simple switch that significantly upgrades your meal without any additional cost to you!
7. Request Half-and-Half Pasta
Can’t decide between two pasta dishes? You don’t have to! Connecticut Olive Garden enthusiasts regularly ask for a split portion of two different pasta types on the same plate.
Maybe you’re craving both fettuccine and spaghetti, or perhaps ravioli and linguine. Simply ask your server for this unofficial menu hack, and most are happy to accommodate your pasta indecision.
8. Keep Breadsticks Coming
Everyone knows Olive Garden’s breadsticks are legendary, but what some don’t realize is they’re truly unlimited with your meal. Connecticut regulars aren’t shy about asking for refills!
Simply catch your server’s eye and request another basket. Want them extra warm? Mention that too! Insiders say the key is asking just as you finish your current basket for minimal wait time.
9. Add Protein to Anything
Looking to boost the protein in your favorite pasta dish? Connecticut Olive Garden fans regularly customize their orders by adding chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to any pasta dish.
While there’s usually a small upcharge, it transforms a simple pasta into a more filling meal. Grilled chicken added to the Five Cheese Ziti is a particular local favorite worth trying!
10. Use the App for Exclusive Deals
Downloading the official Olive Garden app unlocks special promotions not advertised elsewhere.
Members often receive exclusive coupons, early access to limited-time offers, and even the ability to join the wait list before arriving. Plus, you’ll earn points toward free meals with every dollar spent!
11. Customize Pasta Shapes
Wish your Alfredo came with penne instead of fettuccine? No problem! Connecticut regulars know you can swap pasta shapes in almost any dish.
Most servers are happy to substitute your preferred pasta type in any dish on the menu. Just ask nicely when ordering, and you can enjoy your favorite sauce with the pasta shape that holds it best!
12. Ask for Marinara for Breadstick Dipping
Want to elevate those famous breadsticks? Connecticut Olive Garden enthusiasts always request a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Many servers will bring it free of charge if you ask nicely. Warm breadsticks dunked in marinara create a pizza-like flavor experience that’s absolutely worth trying. Some locals even mix marinara with alfredo for a creamy “rosa” dipping sauce!
13. Try the Hidden Stuffed Fettuccine Alfredo
Locals whisper about a secret menu item that combines the best of two worlds. By requesting the kitchen to add cheese-filled ravioli to your fettuccine alfredo, you’ll create a dish that isn’t officially on the menu.
Known among Connecticut regulars as “stuffed fettuccine alfredo,” this hack delivers extra cheese and satisfaction. Just ask your server if the kitchen can make this special combination!
14. Check Lunch Portions for Full-Size Meals
Money-conscious diners from Connecticut have discovered that many lunch menu items are nearly identical to dinner portions but at significantly lower prices. The trick is visiting during lunch hours, which typically run until 3 or 4 PM.
While slightly smaller than dinner portions, lunch servings are substantial enough for most appetites and can save you several dollars per entrée!
15. Ask About Seasonal Specials
Beyond the regular menu lies a world of limited-time offerings that often provide exceptional value. Connecticut Olive Garden fans always inquire about current promotions not listed on the standard menu.
Seasonal specialties like the Once-A-Year Pasta Pass or special holiday menus often feature unique dishes at competitive prices. Your server can fill you in on these hidden gems before you order!
16. Ask for Light, Regular, or Extra Sauce
Want perfect sauce distribution? Connecticut pasta lovers specify exactly how much sauce they want when ordering.
Asking for “light sauce” works well if you prefer to taste the pasta itself, while “extra sauce” ensures you’ll have plenty for dipping breadsticks. Servers are accustomed to these requests and will relay your preference to the kitchen for a customized sauce experience.
17. Unlimited Soup & Salad as a Meal
Budget-conscious Connecticut diners maximize value by ordering the unlimited soup and salad option as their main meal. At around $10-12 depending on location, it’s one of the best deals on the menu.
Alternate between refills of soup and salad to experience variety, and pair with unlimited breadsticks for a surprisingly filling meal. Some locals even bring containers to discreetly take home extras!
18. Servers Can Recommend Secret Tweaks
Insiders know that simply asking “What’s your favorite way to customize this dish?” can unlock a world of off-menu possibilities. Olive Garden staff often have their own preferred modifications after years of experimentation.
Connecticut regulars report discovering amazing combinations this way, like adding crispy chicken to the Tour of Italy or mixing certain sauces. Your server might just introduce you to your new favorite dish!
