Olive Garden Veterans Day Menu
Surprising fact: on November 11, 2025, participating locations nationwide will serve thousands of free entrées to active duty service members and vets in a single day.
This news-style intro tells you what to expect and how to prepare. The offer is dine-in only and requires proof of service, such as a U.S. Military ID, DD214, or VA ID card.
Typical complimentary entrées include comfort pastas and the Never-Ending Soup, Salad and Breadsticks. Drinks, desserts, and gratuity are not included, so plan your check and tip on full value.
Before you go, check local participation and hours at OliveGarden.com and use the online waitlist if available. We’ll walk you through eligibility and what to bring so your visit is easy and welcoming.
Breaking: Olive Garden offers a free Veterans Day meal to service members nationwide
Breaking news: on November 11, 2025, the chain confirmed a one-day free meal for qualifying veterans and active-duty military. The offer is dine-in only and gives each eligible guest one complimentary entrée from a special Veterans Day selection.
You must present acceptable proof of service at the table to redeem the free entrée. This national promotion runs at participating locations and aims to welcome you with made-from-scratch favorites in a family-friendly setting.
- No purchase is required for the qualifying guest.
- Expect busy dining rooms; consider the online waitlist or arriving early.
- Light and hearty options are included, from soup and salad to classic pasta and chicken dishes.
| Entrée | Typical In-Store Price | Veterans Day Offer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fettuccine Alfredo | $12–$16 | One free entrée | Includes soup or salad and breadsticks |
| Chicken Parmigiana | $14–$18 | One free entrée | Made-from-scratch sauces |
| Never-Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks | $9–$13 | One free entrée | Good lighter option |
For local participation and hours, check the restaurant locator before you go. Plan ahead to make the visit smooth and welcoming.
Who qualifies and how to redeem your free entrée
Know your eligibility and have proof ready for a smooth visit. This section explains who qualifies, what IDs count, and where the offer applies.
Eligible veterans and active-duty military members
You qualify if you are a veteran or an active-duty military member from any U.S. branch. That includes Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Reserves.
Accepted proof of military service and ID
Bring one clear form of proof. Acceptable items are a U.S. Military ID (active or retired), DD214, VA Veterans ID card, or a state ID with a veteran designation.
- Physical or official digital copies are fine if they are readable.
- Show the document to your server when you order from the special selection.
Participating restaurants and dine-in requirement
The one-day promotion runs at participating olive garden locations and is dine-in only. Each eligible guest gets one free entrée from the designated list.
| Who | What to bring | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Members and military members | Military ID, DD214, or VA card | Show proof; order from Veterans Day selection |
| Family or guests | No proof = no complimentary entrée | May dine with you but pay full price |
| Location note | Participation may vary | Check nearest restaurant before you go |
Offer details, rules, and limitations to know before you go
Plan ahead: the one free entrée is valid only on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at participating locations. The promotion applies to dine-in guests and covers a single entrée from the special veterans day selection.
What the offer includes
The complimentary plate includes one entrée chosen from the special selection. It arrives with the restaurant’s standard accompaniments listed on the promotional menu.
What is not included
Drinks, appetizers, desserts, and any extra entrées are not part of the free portion. Gratuity is not included, and the offer cannot be combined with coupons or other discounts.
- The promotion covers one complimentary entrée on the specified day and is dine-in only.
- No substitutions are allowed, to keep service fast during peak hours.
- Keep valid proof of service handy so staff can verify quickly and keep lines moving.
| Policy item | Applies | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| One free entrée | Yes | Valid Nov. 11, 2025; dine-in only |
| Drinks, apps, desserts | No | These appear on your bill if ordered |
| Combining discounts | No | Cannot be used with coupons or other promotions |
Ask your server to confirm eligible choices before you order. A quick check saves time and helps you budget for any extras you want to add.
Olive Garden Veterans Day Menu
The holiday selection centers on comforting plates that are easy to enjoy with family. You get classics, pasta favorites, and a lighter choice. Each entrée arrives with a choice of signature soup or salad and warm breadsticks.
Classic choices: Fettuccine Alfredo and Chicken Parmigiana
Fettuccine Alfredo is rich and creamy. Chicken Parmigiana is hand-breaded with marinara and melted cheese. Both are hearty, familiar meals that please most appetites.
Pasta favorites: Cheese Ravioli and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Cheese Ravioli is a vegetarian-friendly pick topped with your choice of sauce. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce pairs slow-simmered tomatoes and seasoned beef over al dente pasta.
Light option: Never-Ending Soup, Salad and Breadsticks
Choose the never-ending soup and salad for a lighter plate. Refills of soup and crisp salad make it a flexible choice for many diners.
Includes signature soup or salad and warm breadsticks
- All entrées include your choice of soup or salad and warm breadsticks.
- Portions are generous and family-friendly.
- The focused special menu keeps service moving on a busy holiday.
| Entrée | Typical Price | Includes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fettuccine Alfredo | $12–$16 | Soup or salad + breadsticks | Creamy Parmesan sauce |
| Chicken Parmigiana | $14–$18 | Soup or salad + breadsticks | Hand-breaded chicken, marinara |
| Never-Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks | $9–$13 | Unlimited refills | Lighter option |
Planning your visit for Veterans Day 2025
Timing and a clear ID will help you skip long lines and enjoy your free meal faster. Check your local restaurant’s hours and participation before you go. Use the online waitlist at OliveGarden.com to add your name and cut lobby time.
Check local hours, participation, and use the online waitlist
Call ahead if you prefer to confirm participation and hours. Locations can vary, so a quick phone check prevents surprises.
Bring valid proof, arrive early, and plan for peak times
Bring official proof of service so staff can verify you quickly. Arrive a bit early; lunch and early dinner fill fast on this day.
- Confirm your restaurant’s participation and hours before leaving.
- Use the online waitlist to reduce wait time.
- Keep your party together at check-in for faster seating.
- Have parking and an alternate location mapped in case waits are long.
| Tip | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Call ahead | Confirms participation and hours |
| Bring ID | Speeds verification for eligible members |
| Use waitlist | Shortens time spent in the lobby |
How Olive Garden’s offer compares with other Veterans Day deals
Deciding where to eat on Veterans Day comes down to pace, portion, and what comfort means to you. One sit-down offer gives a full entrée with soup or salad and warm bread. Quick-service and steakhouse options take different approaches.
Quick comparisons and what to expect
Texas Roadhouse often offers a free plated meal for eligible guests with valid ID. That makes it a strong value if you prefer steakhouse sides and larger portions.
Firehouse Subs commonly runs a BOGO subs offer for those with ID. It is a good counter-service choice when you want speed and portability.
- Olive Garden focuses on a relaxed, family-style dining experience.
- Texas Roadhouse usually provides a free sit-down meal with proof of service.
- Firehouse Subs tends to offer buy-one-get-one subs for quick pickup.
- Verify ID rules and participation on each brand’s site before you go.
| Brand | Typical Offer | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Garden | Free entrée with soup/salad + breadsticks | Comfort, family-style dining |
| Texas Roadhouse | Free plated meal with valid ID | Steakhouse portions, hearty appetites |
| Firehouse Subs | BOGO subs with ID | Quick service, on-the-go plans |
If you want to scout other promotions and travel-related discounts, also check curated deal listings like this military and veterans travel deals. It can help you plan multiple stops and save time on the holiday.
Is there an Olive Garden military discount year-round
Some diners hope for a year-round military discount; that isn’t the case. The restaurant’s military appreciation comes as a single, annual Veterans Day offer each November. Outside that date, regular menu prices apply to all guests.
That said, the chain does run general promotions for everyone. Those specials change seasonally. You can join the eClub or check the website to see current offers and limited-time deals.
- The free Veterans Day meal is a once-a-year appreciation event.
- No standing, year-round military discounts are available at most locations.
- Regular pricing applies on other days, though seasonal offers may appear.
- Join the eClub and check the site for updates before you visit.
- When November nears, watch for the official announcement and special meal details.
| Item | Details | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Annual offer | One complimentary entrée on Veterans Day | Proof of service required |
| Year-round discounts | None specifically for military members | Check other brands for ongoing policies |
| General promos | Seasonal deals for all members and guests | Sign up for eClub emails for alerts |
Your next steps to enjoy the free Veterans Day meal
A few simple steps will make claiming your free meal easy on November 11, 2025.
Confirm your nearest olive garden participation and hours online before you leave. Add your name to the website waitlist to cut down time at the restaurant.
Bring valid proof of military service so staff can verify quickly. Remember the offer is dine-in and covers one free entrée from the special veterans day selection.
Decide if you want a lighter salad-and-soup route or a hearty pasta meal. Drinks and desserts are not included, so budget for extras and plan to tip on full value.
If lines are long, try off-peak windows like mid-afternoon. Show your ID to your server, pick from the special menu, and enjoy a warm, welcoming meal with family or guests.
FAQ
What is the Olive Garden Veterans Day Menu headline about?
This notice explains a nationwide one-day offer for U.S. service members on Nov. 11, 2025. Participating restaurants will serve a special menu of select entrees and included sides as a thank-you for military service.
What is the Breaking: Olive Garden offers a free Veterans Day meal to service members nationwide announcement?
The announcement confirms the chain will provide one free entrée from a limited selection to eligible veterans and active-duty members who dine in on Nov. 11, 2025. The program varies by location and is available while supplies last.
Who qualifies and how do I redeem the free entrée?
Eligible guests include honorably discharged veterans, active-duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members. To redeem, visit a participating restaurant on Nov. 11, show accepted proof of military service, and order from the special one-day menu.
What counts as accepted proof of military service and ID?
Accepted proof typically includes a military ID, VA card, veteran designation on a state ID, or a discharge document such as a DD-214. Check your local restaurant or the brand’s official site for the specific list used at your location.
Are all locations participating and do I have to dine in?
Not every location may take part. The offer is generally dine-in only and not valid for to-go or delivery orders. Call your local restaurant or check the online listing before you go to confirm participation and hours.
What are the key rules, limits, and exclusions for the offer?
The promotion is limited to one free entrée per eligible guest on Nov. 11, 2025. It does not cover beverages, desserts, gratuity, or menu add-ons. Offers usually cannot be combined with other discounts, coupons, or loyalty rewards.
Which items are not included in the free meal?
Drinks, desserts, extras like premium toppings, and to-go orders are excluded. Taxes and tips are not covered. Any additional items you order will be charged separately.
What are the classic entrée choices on the special menu?
The one-day selection highlights comfort-food standards such as Fettuccine Alfredo and Chicken Parmigiana. Each entrée comes prepared in the chain’s traditional, made-from-scratch style.
What pasta favorites are usually offered for the free entrée?
Typical pasta options include Cheese Ravioli and Spaghetti with Meat Sauce. Portions are restaurant-sized and intended to reflect the brand’s homestyle approach.
Is there a lighter option available on the special menu?
Yes. A lighter choice often includes the Never-Ending Soup, Salad and Breadsticks option or a similar lower-calorie selection when offered on the one-day menu.
Does the free entrée include sides?
The selected entrée generally includes a choice of the signature soup or salad and warm breadsticks, as listed in the special one-day offerings.
How should I plan my visit for Nov. 11, 2025?
Confirm local hours and participation, use the online waitlist if available, and arrive early. Peak times fill fast, so plan for potential wait times and limited seating.
What should I bring and what time should I arrive?
Bring valid proof of military service or ID and plan to arrive before peak dinner hours. Midday or earlier evening visits often have shorter waits than prime dinner times.
How does this offer compare with other restaurant Veterans Day deals?
Other chains such as Texas Roadhouse and Firehouse Subs also run one-day free or discounted meals for service members. Each brand sets its own rules, eligible items, and proof requirements, so compare details before choosing where to go.
Is there a year-round military discount at this restaurant?
No permanent nationwide military discount is guaranteed. This is a one-day appreciation event. The restaurant does run general promotions for all guests at other times of the year.
What are the next steps to enjoy the free meal on Nov. 11, 2025?
Verify participation at your local restaurant, note operating hours, bring accepted ID, and plan to dine in. If offered, join the online waitlist or reserve a table early to reduce wait time.
