Fan Favorites Menu Returns to Olive Garden 2025

There’s something undeniably satisfying about when a restaurant finally listens. For years, guests have been asking, tweeting, and even signing petitions begging Olive Garden to bring back some of their most iconic dishes. Now, in 2025, the Fan Favorites Menu is officially back — and yes, it’s even better than before.

I’m not just reporting this — I’ve eaten these dishes, missed them when they were gone, and celebrated when they quietly reappeared on test menus last fall. Olive Garden is doing more than reviving old recipes. They’re responding to real customer loyalty and emotion. This menu isn’t about nostalgia alone — it’s about quality, crave-worthy flavor, and giving people what they keep asking for.

What Is the Olive Garden Fan Favorites Menu?

The Fan Favorites Menu is a handpicked lineup of Olive Garden’s most requested dishes — ones that disappeared from the regular menu but never from guests’ hearts. Some have returned exactly as you remember them, while others got a subtle upgrade without losing their soul.

This is Olive Garden listening to its fans and delivering comfort food with purpose.

How This Menu Came to Be

Let’s be honest — the internet made this happen. Over the past few years, people didn’t just miss these dishes quietly. They turned to Reddit, TikTok, Twitter, and foodie blogs to talk about the void left by Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo or the Stuffed Chicken Marsala.

From Change.org petitions to comment sections filled with “bring this back!” — Olive Garden had the data. And in late 2024, they tested the return of two fan-favorites in select markets. The demand was huge — and so, in early 2025, the Fan Favorites Menu made a full comeback across U.S. locations.

Limited-Time vs Permanent Items

Not everything on the Fan Favorites Menu is sticking around forever. Some dishes are here for a season, others may return to the permanent lineup if they perform well. Here’s how it breaks down:

So if you’re planning to revisit an old favorite — don’t wait too long. Olive Garden is watching performance and feedback to decide what stays.

Full List of Olive Garden Fan Favorite Dishes (With Descriptions)

Every dish on the Fan Favorites Menu earned its way back — not because of marketing strategy, but because real people missed them. Here’s what’s making a return in 2025.

Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo

This was the one fans begged for — a dish that inspired online petitions and even copycat recipes on Pinterest. It’s back, and yes, it’s just as good.

Tender steak medallions are grilled and placed over creamy fettuccine Alfredo, topped with rich Gorgonzola crumbles and finished with a balsamic glaze. It’s earthy, cheesy, tangy, and still incredibly filling.

Why it’s special: It’s not just a pasta dish — it’s a steak-lovers’ dream that manages to balance comfort with complexity.

Stuffed Chicken Marsala

This one isn’t just back — it’s staying. Olive Garden has added Stuffed Chicken Marsala back to the main menu permanently in 2025.

Two seasoned chicken breasts are stuffed with Italian cheeses and sun-dried tomatoes, then topped with a mushroom Marsala wine sauce that’s bold and slightly sweet. The chicken stays juicy inside, with just the right sear on the outside.

Perfect with: Garlic mashed potatoes or a side of sautéed broccoli.

Four-Cheese Manicotti

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this vegetarian-friendly manicotti returns with a rich mix of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano — all baked in a blanket of Alfredo and marinara sauces.

Highlights:

• Perfect for those who want a break from meat-heavy meals
  
• Baked to perfection with slightly crisp edges
  
• Rich enough to split — or not
  

Three-Meat Manicotti

Meat lovers, this one’s for you. The Three-Meat Manicotti layers beef, Italian sausage, and pancetta inside tender manicotti shells, then smothers it all in marinara and Alfredo sauces.

It’s heavy, indulgent, and totally satisfying. One of the most filling dishes on the Fan Favorites Menu.

Other Returning Items Fans Love

In addition to the headline dishes, Olive Garden brought back some low-key cult classics that longtime guests will instantly recognize. Here’s what else is back:

Some of these may appear as part of regional specials or limited runs — so don’t count on them sticking around all year.

Why These Menu Items Became Fan Favorites

The dishes on this list aren’t just popular — they’ve built loyal followings that never really died down. Here’s what pushed them over the top.

Flavor, Tradition, and Customer Demand

Each of these meals offers something unique in terms of flavor — whether it’s the tang of Gorgonzola, the heartiness of three meats, or the sweetness of Marsala sauce.

But it’s not just about taste. These dishes also became part of people’s traditions. Date nights, family birthdays, graduation dinners — these meals showed up in real-life moments that stuck.

When Olive Garden pulled them, people noticed. And they didn’t stop talking about them until they came back.

Social Media Buzz & Online Petitions

In today’s world, food fandom lives online. TikTok creators re-created Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo at home. Reddit threads ranked top discontinued dishes. Facebook groups formed just to reminisce about the Chicken Alfredo Pizza Fritta.

In some cases, fans started online petitions to bring dishes back — and gathered thousands of signatures. Olive Garden took notice. This wasn’t just about food — it was about loyalty.

What Makes These Dishes Stand Out

These items hit the sweet spot of flavor, comfort, and creativity. They weren’t basic. They had character.

What they brought to the table:

• Bold flavor profiles – Strong sauces, sharp cheeses, and balance
  
• Nostalgic value – You remember your first bite
  
• Satisfying portions – They fill you up, no matter your appetite
  

In a world full of limited-time gimmicks, these dishes feel authentic. That’s why they’re back.

Are These Fan Favorites Available Nationwide?

Yes, Olive Garden’s Fan Favorites Menu is being rolled out across most U.S. locations in 2025 — but there are a few details you should know before heading to your nearest restaurant expecting to order Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all launch. Olive Garden confirmed a nationwide campaign, but some dishes are still being phased into locations based on supply chain timing and regional demand.

Locations That Are Confirmed to Serve Them

The Fan Favorites Menu is available at the majority of U.S. Olive Garden restaurants, especially in urban and suburban markets. Locations with higher traffic and prior demand were prioritized first.

As of now, confirmed areas serving the full Fan Favorites Menu include:

If you’re unsure whether your local Olive Garden has the Fan Favorites in stock, your best bet is to check the online menu for your ZIP code — or call ahead. Some smaller or rural locations may offer a reduced selection.

How Long Will They Be Available?

Olive Garden has confirmed that several Fan Favorites are limited-time offerings, though the exact dates vary by dish. Here’s what to expect:

If there’s one you’re dying to try, don’t wait too long — especially if it’s a dish with limited inventory.

Nutritional Info for Fan-Favorite Items

If you’re watching calories, carbs, or just curious how these dishes stack up nutritionally, you’re not alone. While these meals are designed for comfort and indulgence, Olive Garden does provide full nutritional transparency for all returning Fan Favorites.

Calories, Carbs, Protein Breakdown

Here’s a general breakdown of the most popular items from the Fan Favorites Menu:

These are generous, filling entrées — which means you may want to consider splitting them or pairing them with lighter sides if you’re trying to balance your intake.

Healthier Alternatives for Each Option

If you’re craving a Fan Favorite but looking for a lighter twist, Olive Garden has a few smart pairing tips and substitution options:

Pro tip: ask for dressings and sauces on the side — Olive Garden is usually happy to accommodate.

Olive Garden Specials Featuring Fan Favorites

With the return of the Fan Favorites Menu, Olive Garden is also reworking its special offers to highlight these iconic dishes. Whether you’re dining solo or bringing a friend, there are solid deals you can take advantage of.

Any “2 for $25” or Bundle Deals?

Yes — Olive Garden has brought back a version of its classic “2 for $25” deal in select locations, and this time it includes some of the Fan Favorite items.

Here’s how the offer typically works:

“2 for $25” Bundle Includes:

• Choice of Appetizer to Share: Soup, salad, or mozzarella sticks
  
• Two Entrees: Eligible Fan Favorites include Four-Cheese Manicotti and Stuffed Chicken Marsala
  
• Unlimited Breadsticks & Soft Drinks (may vary by location)
  

This bundle isn’t available at all locations, and premium dishes like Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo may cost an extra $2–$3. Still, it’s a great way to enjoy nostalgic favorites without stretching your budget.

Pairing Suggestions: Soups, Sides, & Wines

Pairing a hearty entrée with the right side or wine can turn dinner into something a little more special. Here are my personal suggestions based on past visits and Olive Garden’s own recommendations:

If you’re not sure what to pick, Olive Garden servers are usually trained to help suggest good wine pairings based on your order — don’t hesitate to ask.

How to Order the Fan Favorites Menu

Ordering from the Fan Favorites Menu at Olive Garden is straightforward, whether you’re dining in or grabbing your favorites to enjoy at home. Here’s what you need to know to get exactly what you want with as little hassle as possible.

Dine-In, Takeout, and Delivery Options

Olive Garden ensures that the Fan Favorites dishes are available across all service methods, but availability can vary slightly by location:

• Dine-In: The full Fan Favorites Menu is generally available in-house, allowing you to enjoy the dishes at the restaurant with the full Olive Garden experience — unlimited breadsticks, freshly made salads, and a cozy ambiance.
  
• Takeout: Most Olive Garden locations offer takeout options for Fan Favorites, but some limited-time or seasonal items might not always be available. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check the online menu before ordering.
  
• Delivery: Delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub include many Fan Favorites, but keep in mind that menu selections on these platforms may be limited or vary by restaurant. Delivery is great for enjoying favorites from home but may have longer wait times during peak hours.
  

Using the Olive Garden App or Website

For convenience and accuracy, ordering Fan Favorites through the Olive Garden app or official website is highly recommended. These platforms allow you to:

• View the most up-to-date Fan Favorites Menu by location.
  
• Customize your order easily, including side substitutions or special requests.
  
• Select dine-in reservations or schedule pickup/delivery times.
  
• Earn rewards and access exclusive offers.
  

I personally prefer the app for quick ordering, especially when I’m in a hurry. It saves time and helps avoid any confusion about availability.

Fan Reactions and Reviews

When Olive Garden announced the return of the Fan Favorites Menu, the response was immediate and heartfelt. The excitement spilled over from dining rooms into the digital world, where food lovers voiced their opinions loud and clear.

What People Are Saying on Reddit and Twitter

Reddit threads dedicated to Olive Garden regularly feature discussions about the Fan Favorites, with users sharing photos, recipes, and memories. The general consensus is overwhelmingly positive.

On Twitter, hashtags like #FanFavorites and #OliveGardenReturns trended for weeks, with fans posting reviews such as:

• “Finally got to try the Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo again — just like I remembered, if not better!”
  
• “Stuffed Chicken Marsala is pure comfort food. So glad they made it permanent.”
  
• “Missed the Four-Cheese Manicotti so much — this is a dream come true.”
  

Of course, a few critics pointed out that some dishes were heavier than expected, but most agreed the quality and taste justified the indulgence.

Longtime Customers Share Their Stories

The Fan Favorites Menu isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. Many longtime Olive Garden guests shared personal stories about how these dishes were part of important moments in their lives:

• A Reddit user mentioned celebrating their high school graduation with Stuffed Chicken Marsala.
  
• Another Twitter follower recalled how the Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo was their go-to comfort food after a tough day.
  
• A Facebook post from a couple shared that they bonded over Four-Cheese Manicotti on their first date.
  

These stories highlight why Olive Garden’s decision to bring these dishes back is about more than just sales — it’s about honoring relationships built around food.

Will These Fan Favorites Stay on the Menu?

The big question on everyone’s mind: will these fan-loved dishes become permanent fixtures, or are they destined to disappear again?

Olive Garden’s Official Statement (If Any)

Olive Garden has been cautiously optimistic. While Stuffed Chicken Marsala has already earned a permanent spot, the company has stated that other Fan Favorites will be evaluated based on ongoing customer response and sales performance.

In an official statement, a spokesperson said:

“We’re thrilled to bring back some of our guests’ favorite dishes and look forward to hearing their feedback. We want to ensure that we continue offering quality meals that our guests love and appreciate.”

This suggests that while some items may rotate out, Olive Garden is open to extending or even permanently adding dishes that resonate most.

Can Public Demand Make Them Permanent?

History shows that Olive Garden listens to its guests. The online petitions, social media buzz, and consistent positive reviews all play a significant role.

If fans continue to rally behind these dishes by ordering them frequently, sharing their experiences, and encouraging others to try them, there’s a good chance the menu could evolve.

From my experience following restaurant trends, public demand can be a powerful driver. It’s why sometimes a limited-time dish suddenly becomes a permanent one — and with the Fan Favorites Menu, that outcome feels well within reach.

Final Thoughts

The return of the Fan Favorites Menu in 2025 is a win for anyone who’s missed those classic dishes that once defined the Olive Garden experience. It’s a thoughtful blend of nostalgia and fresh enthusiasm, reminding us why we love Italian-American comfort food.

Whether you’re trying these dishes for the first time or revisiting old favorites, Olive Garden is making it easier than ever to enjoy what matters most: great food shared with people who care.

From the rich and hearty Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo to the cheesy indulgence of Four-Cheese Manicotti, this menu proves that sometimes the best way forward is to honor the past.

If you haven’t checked out the Fan Favorites yet, 2025 is the perfect year to start — and don’t forget to savor every bite.

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