Why This Affordable Italian Combo Still Wins in 2025

When it comes to affordable sit-down meals that actually satisfy, Olive Garden’s 2 for $25 deal continues to be one of the best offers you’ll find in 2025. With inflation affecting restaurant pricing nationwide, this combo has remained a go-to for couples, friends, and even small families looking for quality food without overspending. It includes a complete meal for two — appetizer, two entrées, soup or salad, and unlimited breadsticks — all for a flat price. That’s hard to beat.

The deal has been running for several years but remains popular for one reason: it delivers real value. You’re not getting cheap filler — you’re getting Olive Garden’s crowd-favorite dishes, fresh and flavorful, and served with their signature hospitality.

Let’s break down exactly what’s included in the Olive Garden 2 for $25 deal in 2025, what options you can choose from, and why this meal is still worth it.

What You Get with the 2 for $25 Deal

The structure of this special offer is simple and appealing. Two people get to enjoy a full-course meal experience at a budget-friendly price. Each person picks an entrée, you share one appetizer, and both of you get soup or salad and those famous unlimited breadsticks.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• One appetizer to share

• Two full-size entrées

• Unlimited soup or salad

• Unlimited breadsticks

It’s a fixed-price bundle that brings in both casual diners and Olive Garden regulars. You don’t need to time it with a happy hour or hunt down a coupon. The value is built into the menu.

Appetizers You Can Choose From

While the options may slightly vary depending on the location, most Olive Garden restaurants offer these appetizers for the deal:

• Stuffed Ziti Fritta: bite-sized fried ziti filled with cheese and served with Alfredo and marinara

• Fried Mozzarella: crisped golden brown and served with marinara

• Spinach-Artichoke Dip: served warm with house-made chips

• Garlic Breadstick Dippers: paired with dipping sauces like Alfredo and Marinara

Each one of these starters is shareable, and although portion sizes aren’t enormous, they’re satisfying enough to get your appetite going.

Entrée Options in the 2 for $25 Menu

Olive Garden keeps it classic with these entrée selections. You’ll usually see these available in the combo:

• Fettuccine Alfredo

• Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

• Cheese Ravioli with Marinara or Meat Sauce

• Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

• Chicken Parmigiana (sometimes as a $3–$5 upgrade)

Every entrée is full-size — not scaled down like some promotional meals. You’re getting the same portions you’d get if you ordered the dish à la carte.

Soup or Salad: Unlimited and Delicious

Each guest chooses between the famous house salad or one of the soups:

• House Salad: fresh greens, olives, croutons, onion, tomatoes, and Italian dressing

• Zuppa Toscana: spicy sausage, kale, and potato in creamy broth

• Chicken & Gnocchi: creamy soup with dumplings and chicken

• Pasta e Fagioli: pasta and beans in a hearty tomato base

• Minestrone: a vegetable-forward classic

You can even switch between soup types if you ask politely, and servers usually offer generous refills. It’s one of the most satisfying parts of the experience — especially if you’re coming in extra hungry.

Unlimited Breadsticks

Yes, they’re still unlimited. And yes, they’re still warm, soft, and brushed with just the right amount of garlic salt. Some diners joke that the breadsticks alone make the deal worth it. Whether you’re dipping them in soup or snacking on them between courses, you’ll definitely ask for a second basket.

How the 2 for $25 Deal Holds Up in 2025

In a market where prices are creeping up everywhere, this deal stays competitive. You’re spending around $12.50 per person for an appetizer, entrée, salad/soup, and unlimited bread. That’s less than most fast-casual restaurants, and you’re sitting down in a full-service dining space.

The portions are generous enough that many diners leave with takeout containers. That means your $25 may cover lunch the next day, too. It’s a great example of value meeting quality — something that’s becoming harder to find.

Availability and Ordering Options

You can order the Olive Garden 2 for $25 deal in three easy ways:

• Dine-in at any participating location

• Online ordering through Olive Garden’s official website or mobile app

• Curbside pickup or takeout (depending on store availability)

It’s available most days, including weekends. While some locations might adjust pricing slightly for regional costs (e.g., $26.99), the structure stays the same.

Tips to Maximize the Deal

Here are a few tricks I use to get the most out of this meal:

• Share the appetizer right away so you can take your time with the entrée

• Request extra salad dressing or soup toppings

• Ask for a to-go bag at the start — you’ll probably have leftovers

• Pair the meal with a budget wine or non-alcoholic Italian soda to complete the experience without overspending

Also, keep an eye out for bonus promotions. Occasionally, Olive Garden will include limited-time entrées or allow you to add dessert at a discounted price with this combo.

Comparing to Other Olive Garden Deals

Let’s quickly compare the 2 for $25 offer with other ongoing Olive Garden deals:

Offer	Price	Includes	Ideal For
2 for $25	$25	Appetizer, 2 entrées, salad/soup, bread	Couples or Friends
Lunch Duo	$9–$11	Small entrée + soup or salad	Solo Lunch
Family-Style Bundles	$45–$60	Large meal for 4–6 people	Families, Gatherings
Never-Ending Pasta Bowl	$14.99+	Unlimited pasta and toppings	Pasta Lovers

 

While each deal has its place, the 2 for $25 strikes the perfect balance for value and variety. You don’t feel rushed or restricted, and the portion sizes don’t feel like “promo” food. It’s the same Olive Garden quality you’d expect from regular-priced meals.

Final Thoughts

The Olive Garden 2 for $25 deal is proof that great food doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. It’s generous, consistent, and delicious — and in 2025, it still delivers on its promise of value. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying Olive Garden for the first time, this meal is an easy way to enjoy a full Italian dinner without second-guessing the bill.

If you're looking for a solid dine-in meal option that won’t disappoint, this deal is still one of the best kept secrets in casual dining. Just show up hungry.