Planning a large family gathering at Olive Garden starts with understanding the catering packages and their per-person costs. Getting the exact olive garden catering menu prices can feel tricky because they change by location and party size, but I’ve broken down everything you need to know for 2025.
Olive Garden’s catering is designed for groups of 10 or more people. You can order online or call your local restaurant. The menu is split into three main packages: the Classic, the Deluxe, and the Ultimate. Each package includes a main dish, two sides, salad, and breadsticks.
Let’s get into the numbers. Below is a quick overview of the base per-person costs for each package. Remember, these are starting prices and can vary by about $2–$4 depending on your area.
- Classic Package: Starts around $14.99 per person
- Deluxe Package: Starts around $17.99 per person
- Ultimate Package: Starts around $21.99 per person
These prices include the main dish, two sides, salad, and breadsticks. You can add extras like extra pasta, dessert, or drinks for an additional cost.
Olive Garden Catering Menu Prices
Now let’s break down each package in detail. I’ll cover what you get, how much it costs, and what options you have for customization.
Classic Package: The Budget-Friendly Option
The Classic package is the most affordable choice. It’s perfect for casual get-togethers or office lunches where you want good food without breaking the bank.
What’s included:
- One main dish (choose from a list of 4 options)
- Two sides (choose from pasta, vegetables, or potatoes)
- Garden-fresh salad (serves your group size)
- Unlimited breadsticks
Main dish options for Classic:
- Spaghetti with Marinara
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Chicken Parmigiana
- Lasagna Classico
Pricing details:
The Classic package starts at $14.99 per person. For a group of 10 people, that’s $149.90 before tax and any add-ons. If you have 20 people, it’s $299.80. This package does not include dessert or drinks.
You can upgrade the main dish to a premium option like Chicken Alfredo or Eggplant Parmigiana for an extra $2–$3 per person. This is a common way to customize without jumping to a higher package.
Deluxe Package: The Popular Middle Ground
The Deluxe package is the most popular choice for family reunions and birthday parties. It offers more variety and includes dessert.
What’s included:
- One main dish (choose from a list of 6 options)
- Two sides
- Garden-fresh salad
- Unlimited breadsticks
- Dessert (choice of tiramisu or chocolate cake)
Main dish options for Deluxe:
- Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Chicken Parmigiana
- Lasagna Classico
- Eggplant Parmigiana
- Grilled Chicken
Pricing details:
The Deluxe package starts at $17.99 per person. For a group of 10, that’s $179.90. For 20 people, it’s $359.80. The dessert is included, which makes it a better value if you were planning to add dessert anyway.
You can also add a second main dish for an additional $4–$5 per person. This is a great option if your group has picky eaters or dietary restrictions.
Ultimate Package: The All-Inclusive Feast
The Ultimate package is for those who want everything. It includes two main dishes, more sides, and premium desserts.
What’s included:
- Two main dishes (choose from a list of 8 options)
- Three sides
- Garden-fresh salad
- Unlimited breadsticks
- Dessert (choice of tiramisu, chocolate cake, or lemon cream cake)
- Beverage (soda or iced tea for the group)
Main dish options for Ultimate:
- Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Chicken Parmigiana
- Lasagna Classico
- Eggplant Parmigiana
- Grilled Chicken
- Shrimp Scampi
- Steak Gorgonzola-Alfredo
Pricing details:
The Ultimate package starts at $21.99 per person. For a group of 10, that’s $219.90. For 20 people, it’s $439.80. This package includes drinks, which can save you money compared to buying them separately.
If you want to add a third main dish, it costs an extra $6–$7 per person. This is rarely needed because two dishes already offer plenty of variety.
Add-Ons And Extras
No matter which package you choose, you can add extras to customize your order. Here are the common add-ons and their approximate costs.
Extra Pasta And Sides
- Extra pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine): $2.99 per person
- Extra vegetables (broccoli or green beans): $1.99 per person
- Extra salad: $1.49 per person
- Extra breadsticks: $0.99 per person (usually 2 per person)
Dessert Upgrades
- Tiramisu: $3.99 per person (if not included in package)
- Chocolate cake: $3.49 per person
- Lemon cream cake: $3.99 per person
- Assorted dessert platter: $5.99 per person (includes mini versions of all desserts)
Beverage Options
- Soda (2-liter bottles): $2.99 each (usually need 1 per 4 people)
- Iced tea (gallon): $4.99 each
- Lemonade (gallon): $4.99 each
- Water bottles (24-pack): $6.99
Paper Goods And Utensils
Olive Garden provides basic paper goods for free with catering orders. This includes plates, napkins, forks, and serving utensils. If you need extra, you can request them at no charge.
How To Order Olive Garden Catering
Ordering is straightforward. You can do it online or over the phone. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
- Visit the Olive Garden website and click on the “Catering” tab.
- Enter your zip code to find the nearest participating location.
- Choose your package (Classic, Deluxe, or Ultimate).
- Select your main dish and sides from the available options.
- Add any extras like dessert, drinks, or extra pasta.
- Choose your pickup time (usually 2–4 hours in advance).
- Pay online or choose to pay at the restaurant.
- Pick up your order at the designated catering entrance.
You can also call your local Olive Garden directly. The staff can help you customize the menu and answer questions about dietary restrictions.
Tips For Saving Money On Catering
Olive Garden catering is already affordable, but you can save even more with these tips.
- Order the Classic package if you don’t need dessert or drinks. You can buy soda and cake from a grocery store for less.
- Choose pasta-based mains like spaghetti or fettuccine. They are cheaper than chicken or shrimp options.
- Skip extra sides if you’re already getting two. Most groups don’t finish all the food.
- Look for online coupons on the Olive Garden website or apps like RetailMeNot. Sometimes they offer 10% off catering orders over $100.
- Order for pickup instead of delivery. Delivery fees can add $10–$20 to your total.
- Split the cost with guests. If you’re hosting a party, ask everyone to chip in $5–$10.
Comparing Olive Garden Catering To Other Restaurants
How does Olive Garden stack up against competitors? Here’s a quick comparison.
| Restaurant | Per-Person Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Garden | $14.99–$21.99 | Main, 2 sides, salad, breadsticks |
| Pizza Hut | $10.99–$15.99 | Pizza, wings, salad |
| Chick-fil-A | $12.99–$18.99 | Sandwiches, nuggets, sides |
| Panera Bread | $13.99–$19.99 | Soups, sandwiches, salad |
Olive Garden is mid-range in price but offers more variety and a sit-down restaurant feel. The unlimited breadsticks are a big draw for many groups.
What Customers Say About The Catering
I looked at online reviews to see what real customers think. Most people are happy with the food quality and portion sizes. Here are some common themes.
- Portions are generous. Many say the food feeds more people than expected.
- Breadsticks are a hit. They stay warm and soft for hours.
- Salad dressing is included. You get a bottle of Italian dressing with every order.
- Delivery can be inconsistent. Some locations deliver late or forget items. Pickup is more reliable.
- Vegetarian options are limited. The Classic package has only one vegetarian main (spaghetti marinara).
Overall, customers recommend Olive Garden for casual events where Italian food is appreciated. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable and tasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Minimum Order For Olive Garden Catering?
You need at least 10 people for a catering order. If you have fewer than 10, you can order from the regular menu and pick up large portions.
Does Olive Garden Deliver Catering?
Yes, some locations offer delivery for an extra fee. Delivery is usually available within a 5-mile radius. Call your local store to check.
Can I Get Gluten-free Options For Catering?
Olive Garden offers gluten-free pasta, but it’s not available for catering packages. You can request it as a substitution, but it may cost extra and is not guaranteed.
How Far In Advance Should I Order?
Order at least 24 hours in advance for best results. Same-day orders are possible but may have limited availability.
Can I Customize The Menu For Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, you can request modifications like no cheese or extra vegetables. The staff will do their best to accommodate, but options are limited for vegan or keto diets.
Final Thoughts On Olive Garden Catering
Olive Garden catering is a solid choice for feeding a crowd without stress. The olive garden catering menu prices are reasonable, and the food is familiar and comforting. Whether you choose the Classic, Deluxe, or Ultimate package, you’ll get plenty of food and friendly service.
Just remember to order ahead, double-check your pickup time, and bring a large vehicle for the boxes. The portions are big, and the breadsticks are worth the trip alone.
If you’re planning a party, a work lunch, or a family reunion, give Olive Garden a try. You’ll save time and keep everyone happy with classic Italian-American dishes.