For residents across the Valley, from Mesa to Chandler and especially here in Tempe, the Olive Garden Italian Restaurant at 1010 W Elliot Rd is a familiar and reliable destination for classic Italian-American cuisine. Known nationally, this local Arizona location maintains the high standards of a true Family restaurant, providing a consistently comfortable and satisfying dining experience. The core appeal of this establishment rests on its blend of hearty Comfort food and exceptional value, most famously exemplified by the truly Never Ending
offerings of soup or salad and, of course, the beloved breadsticks.
The culinary identity is that of a quintessential Italian restaurant, but the menu offers the breadth of a broader Mediterranean restaurant, featuring items like Herb-Grilled Salmon and a dedicated Seafood restaurant section that includes classics like Shrimp Scampi and Seafood Alfredo. It also functions as a sophisticated Wine bar with an extensive list of Italian and domestic selections, making it just as suitable for a casual date night as it is for a large family gathering.
The atmosphere at the Tempe location is described as Casual, Cozy, and even Trendy, appealing to a diverse cross-section of the Arizona community. Whether you're a local resident, a visitor exploring the East Valley, a student from ASU, or part of a large group looking for easy seating and delicious food, this establishment caters to a wide Crowd including being highly Family-friendly, a Transgender safespace, and generally LGBTQ+ friendly. They aim to make every diner feel welcome and well-served.
This well-known dining spot is conveniently located in the heart of Tempe, Arizona, at 1010 W Elliot Rd, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA. The proximity to major highways and its position on a main road makes it easily reachable for anyone in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. Its accessibility is a significant highlight, ensuring that a visit is stress-free from the moment you arrive. The restaurant offers ample Free parking lot space, and in the rare event the lot is full, there is often Free street parking available nearby.
The Olive Garden is committed to providing a fully inclusive environment, which is particularly important for local residents with mobility considerations. Key accessibility features include:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible seating.
- A dedicated Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
- A fully accessible Wheelchair accessible restroom.
While the restaurant is highly popular, which sometimes results in the notice of Usually a wait,
the combination of excellent location and convenient accessibility makes it worth the short wait, offering a comfortable environment both inside and out.
Recognizing the varied and busy lifestyles of Arizona residents, this Olive Garden location provides a comprehensive suite of dining and service options designed for maximum convenience. Whether you prefer a leisurely meal, a quick pickup, or feeding a large event, they have a solution.
Core service options include:
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full experience with Table service, complete with their famous first course included with all Classic Entrées.
- Takeout: Place your order for quick and easy pickup.
- Curbside pickup: A convenient service that allows you to remain in your vehicle while your meal is brought directly to you.
- Delivery: Receive your favorite Italian dishes at home or the office via standard Delivery or No-contact delivery options.
- Catering: The restaurant functions as a dedicated Caterer, making it an excellent choice for parties, office lunches, and special events across the Valley.
- Dining Times: Services are available for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert. The special Lunch-Sized Favorites are available from 11 AM to 3 PM Monday through Friday, catering perfectly to local lunch breaks.
The facility is fully equipped with amenities like a Bar onsite, clean Restroom facilities (including a Has changing table(s) for families), and Wi-Fi access. Payment is simple, with options for Credit cards, Debit cards, and modern NFC mobile payments.
The Olive Garden in Tempe stands out in the competitive Arizona dining scene due to several unique and consumer-focused highlights. The menu itself is built around providing both value and a wide array of choices for nearly any dietary preference or craving. This includes a robust selection of Healthy options, Vegetarian options, and specific dishes that cater to those seeking a Gluten-free restaurant experience, though diners should always inquire about preparation.
Key highlights that make this location a local favorite include:
- The Never-Ending Experience: The legendary Never-Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks offers incredible value, often acting as a satisfying meal in itself. Their soups—like Zuppa Toscana and Chicken & Gnocchi—are made from scratch every day.
- Exceptional Beverage Program: The restaurant boasts a Great wine list, extensive selections of Beer, and a full bar offering Hard liquor. Guests frequently praise the Great cocktails, including signature options like the Sicilian Sunset and Italian Margarita. They also offer delightful Sangrias like the Green Apple Moscato Sangria.
- Delicious Desserts: They are highly noted for Great dessert, with offerings like Tiramisu, Black Tie Mousse Cake, and the seasonal Pumpkin Cookie Butter Cheesecake, all of which are perfect for sharing after a generous meal.
- Customizable Meals: The Create Your Own Pasta option gives the local diner full control, allowing you to choose your pasta, sauce, and topping, ensuring the meal is exactly
just the way you want it!
- Family Focus: The restaurant is truly designed to be Good for kids, offering a complete Kids' menu with favorites like Pepperoni Pizza and Macaroni & Cheese, along with essential amenities like High chairs.
- Staff and Efficiency: Customers consistently praise the Fast service and the exceptional knowledge and friendliness of servers, which contributes significantly to the overall positive dining experience and a nice,
chill
atmosphere. - Variety of Plates: Beyond full entrées, they offer Small plates and great sharable Appetizers like Lasagna Fritta and Calamari, ideal for those seeking lighter fare or just a Quick bite before a movie.
To reach the Olive Garden Italian Restaurant in Tempe, whether for reservations, questions about catering, or placing a takeout order, please use the following contact details:
Address: 1010 W Elliot Rd, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA
Phone: (480) 777-0032
Mobile Phone: +1 480-777-0032
For an Arizona local, choosing the Olive Garden in Tempe is a decision for consistency, quality, and undeniable value. The restaurant’s commitment to providing a welcoming, Family-friendly environment makes it a reliable staple for weekly dinners or special celebrations. The guaranteed quality of their core offerings—from the perfectly prepared Lasagna Classico to a freshly made bowl of Zuppa Toscana—means you know exactly what you’re getting, and that reliability is a huge asset in a busy metro area.
The highly customizable experience, especially the ability to Create Your Own Pasta, caters perfectly to individual preferences or dietary needs, offering a significant advantage over less flexible Italian spots. Moreover, the extensive beverage selection, with its popular cocktails and acclaimed Great wine list, allows adults to truly enjoy a complete, sophisticated dining experience. As highlighted by customer reviews, staple dishes like the Tour of Italy are prepared exceptionally well at this specific location, solidifying its recommendation above others.
In summary, whether you need the convenience of Curbside pickup for a quick family meal, a dependable location for Catering an event, or simply a cozy place to enjoy Never Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks for Lunch or Dinner, this Tempe Olive Garden provides a complete, high-value, and consistently delicious Italian dining solution for all of Arizona’s East Valley residents.
























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