Previously on The Inquisitr , it was reported that Olive Garden was now offering a “Cucina Mia” menu at $9.99 . It was also noted in that report that Olive Garden would probably still have problems because they are a restaurant catering to the dining experience in a time when people want their food fast and on-the-go. It seems Olive Garden listened to that part of the article, because they are now offering a new menu known as the “Pronto Menu”, and it starts at $6.99.
According to the Huffington Post , Olive Garden has been stepping up on their menu just to stay relevant in an era when restaurants that combine speed and atmosphere, like Panera Bread Company, are dominating the restaurant landscape. Olive Garden spokesman, Justin Sikora, actually stated the following about the new menu:
“We’re making a transformation to the brand. We’re moving away from some of the things we’ve done in the past — traditional Tuscan warmth — and embracing a more contemporary Italy.”
This includes a new outlook on the restaurant itself, although their new logo is still being questioned. However, it is the food that is getting most of the attention. In a report by The Examiner , heavy Italian comforts will still be available at Olive Garden, but they have also added lighter dishes via the “tapas” trend. Along with the small plates, new flatbreads, desserts, and other menu items, especially those of a seasonal nature, are included. The menu does include options such as unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks if a classic meal is ordered, an add-on (pasta side, salad topper, Italian small plate), and/or sandwiches and flatbreads.
In short, the new “Pronto” menu was made in relationship with how fast people are moving these days, ergo all the meals are delicious, but quick and easy to make, and cheap in price.
As of now, the new items of the “Pronto” Menu are listed below, which can also be seen with pictures at the Olive Garden’s official page for the menu with all the other items not listed here.
Pronto Lunch
Small Plates (All Are $4.00)
- Parmesan Asparagus (Roasted or Crispy)
- Grilled Chicken Spiedini
- Chicken Meatballs
- Crispy Risotto Bites
- Parmesan Olive Fritta
- Tuscan White Bean Hummus
- Tortellini al Forno
- Polenta Shrimp alla Greca
Sandwich & Flatbread Combinations
- The Italian Burger – $9.99 (Pictured Above)
- Italian Meatball Sandwich – $6.99
- Sausage & Peppers Sandwich – $6.99
- Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich – $6.99
- Smashed Chicken Meatball Sandwich – $9.99 (Pictured Above)
- Caprese Flatbread – $8.49
- Grilled Chicken Flatbread – $9.79 (Pictured Below)
[Images via Olive Garden Website]
