If you have been dreaming of owning a slice of the American dining experience by investing in Olive Garden, here is the truth: you cannot buy an Olive Garden franchise in the U.S.
Despite its massive popularity, Olive Garden is not up for grabs, at least not in the traditional franchising sense. But that does not mean the door is closed. There are plenty of profitable Olive Garden franchise alternatives worth exploring.
From fast-casual eateries to upscale full-service restaurant franchise models, the market is rich with opportunity.
While many investors are still curious about the elusive Olive Garden franchise cost, the reality is that Darden Restaurants, Olive Garden’s parent company, keeps it strictly corporate-owned in the U.S.
So, if you are searching for the best Italian restaurant franchises or considering broader casual dining franchise opportunities, you are in the right place.
This guide will break down why Olive Garden does not franchise in the United States, what international options exist, and most importantly, highlight the most exciting and accessible Italian food franchises available in the U.S. today.
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Key Takeaways
- Olive Garden does not offer franchise opportunities in the U.S. as all locations are corporately owned by Darden Restaurants.
- International licensing is possible but requires significant capital, market expertise, and long-term commitment.
- Several strong Olive Garden franchise alternatives exist, offering similar Italian dining experiences with proven profitability.
- Exploring full-service and casual dining franchise models can open doors to lucrative investment opportunities in the food industry.
What Is Olive Garden?
Olive Garden is a well-known American casual dining restaurant chain specialising in Italian-American cuisine. Olive Garden is owned and operated by Darden Restaurants, Inc., a publicly traded company that also owns other major chains like LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, and Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.
Founded in 1982 by General Mills, the restaurant quickly rose to prominence with its signature offerings like unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks; a combination that became iconic in the casual dining space.
Today, Olive Garden operates over 900 locations across the United States and select international markets, making it one of the leading full-service restaurant chains in the country. Its menu includes a variety of pasta dishes, classic Italian entrées, wines, and desserts, all tailored to suit American tastes while evoking traditional Italian flavours.
The brand’s core appeal lies in its accessible pricing, consistent quality, and comfortable dining experience, a formula that has helped it build a loyal customer base.
With its strong market presence and reliable customer traffic, Olive Garden has long been a dream brand for potential franchisees. However, as we will uncover in this guide, that dream comes with some unique limitations.
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Does Olive Garden Franchise?
No, Olive Garden does not franchise in the United States. Unlike many popular restaurant chains, all Olive Garden locations across the U.S. are owned and operated by its parent company, Darden Restaurants, Inc. This means individuals cannot purchase a traditional franchise or open a new Olive Garden branch independently within the country.
Darden’s decision to retain full ownership of Olive Garden is a deliberate strategy. By avoiding the franchising route, they maintain tighter control over quality, operations, customer experience, and brand consistency across all locations.
This corporate ownership model allows Darden to streamline decision-making and standardise everything from menu offerings to marketing campaigns.
However, international licensing opportunities do exist. In select global markets, Darden enters into master licensing agreements with qualified partners who can open and operate Olive Garden restaurants abroad.
These agreements are not typical franchise deals but rather long-term partnerships that come with strict operational guidelines and high financial thresholds.
So, while Olive Garden is not a franchisable concept domestically, there are rare and selective pathways for international operators, provided they meet Darden’s stringent criteria. For most entrepreneurs, however, this means exploring Olive Garden franchise alternatives becomes the next best option.
Olive Garden’s International Licensing Model
While Olive Garden does not franchise its restaurants in the United States, it offers a selective path to ownership abroad through international licensing agreements. These are not standard franchise arrangements but long-term master licenses granted to qualified partners in specific global markets.
Instead of selling individual units, Olive Garden’s parent company, Darden Restaurants, enters into exclusive agreements with established foodservice operators, giving them the rights to develop and run the Olive Garden brand within a designated country or region.
This model has already been implemented in places like Mexico, Brazil, Kuwait, and the UAE, where Olive Garden restaurants operate under strict brand guidelines but are locally owned and managed.
Under this structure, the licensee assumes full responsibility for local operations, including site selection, staffing, training, supply chain management, and compliance. Darden provides branding assets, menu frameworks, and strategic support to maintain consistency with its U.S. operations.
These deals are designed for scale, often involving the opening of multiple units over a set period.
Requirements and Steps to Become a Licensee
Becoming an international Olive Garden licensee is not for small investors or first-time restaurant owners. Darden targets large-scale operators with a strong financial background and operational experience in the restaurant or hospitality sector.
To be considered, prospective partners typically need:
- A net worth of at least $5 million, depending on the market size and development scope.
- Liquid capital sufficient to support multiple store openings, generally several million dollars.
- Operational experience, preferably managing multi-unit full-service or casual dining concepts.
- Proven real estate and supply chain capabilities in their local market.
- A track record of compliance and brand integrity in previous business dealings.
See also: A product on how to become a successful franchise owner.
Steps to Become an Olive Garden International Licensee
Becoming an international licensee for Olive Garden is a serious undertaking, one that is reserved for well-established businesses or investment groups with proven experience in the hospitality sector.
If you meet the financial and operational criteria, here is how the process typically unfolds:
Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest
The first step is to reach out directly to Darden Restaurants, Olive Garden’s parent company, through their official corporate or international development channels. This initial enquiry should include a brief overview of your company, your market, and your interest in operating Olive Garden under a licensing model.
Step 2: Share Financial and Operational Credentials
If your enquiry is acknowledged, Darden will request detailed documentation, including proof of net worth, liquid capital, and prior operational experience.
The company is looking for partners with a net worth of at least $5 million and the infrastructure to develop and operate multiple full-service restaurants over time.
Step 3: Participate in a Strategic Development Review
Next, you will enter a more in-depth dialogue with Darden’s international development team. This involves discussing your target market, projected restaurant rollouts, location strategy, staffing plans, and how you intend to deliver a consistent brand experience.
Darden evaluates your local market expertise, logistical capability, and ability to scale sustainably.
Step 4: Undergo Due Diligence and Background Checks
Before moving forward, Darden conducts a thorough background check on your business and leadership team. This includes reviewing your financial history, operational performance, and legal compliance across your previous ventures. They want to ensure the Olive Garden brand is entrusted to a reputable operator with integrity.
Step 5: Finalise the Licensing Agreement
Once approved, you will work with Darden to formalise a master license agreement. This contract will outline your development rights, performance expectations, branding requirements, and the financial terms of the partnership.
It is a long-term commitment designed for multi-unit growth.
Step 6: Begin Training and Market Launch Preparation
Following the agreement, Darden will onboard your leadership team with training and brand immersion, guiding you on everything from menu adaptation to store design and customer experience.
From here, you can begin executing your rollout plan, often starting with one flagship store, followed by a phased expansion across the licensed territory.
What Makes a Good Olive Garden Franchise Alternative?
If you are drawn to the Olive Garden brand, chances are you are looking for a franchise that offers a similar mix of comfort food, family-friendly atmosphere, and a strong brand identity. Since Olive Garden is not franchising in the U.S., your next best move is to find an alternative that captures its essence but with a franchise model that is accessible.
Here is what to look for in a strong Olive Garden franchise alternative:
Italian-American Cuisine with Broad Appeal
Olive Garden’s success lies in its approachable, Americanised Italian menu. So, a good alternative should offer a similar culinary profile, like pasta, pizza, salads, and hearty entrées that appeal to a wide demographic.
Ideally, the brand should balance authenticity with familiarity, catering to customers seeking comfort and quality.
A Reliable, Scalable Business Model
One key advantage of franchising is a tested blueprint for success. While you cannot franchise Olive Garden in the U.S., you can choose alternatives with franchise models that have already proven profitable.
These brands should offer extensive training, marketing assistance, and operational support, which is useful if you are entering the restaurant business for the first time.
A franchise with a solid infrastructure can save you from common startup pitfalls and significantly improve your odds of long-term success.
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Affordable Investment and Flexible Formats
If Olive Garden were open to franchising in the U.S., the investment required would likely run into millions. Fortunately, many alternatives offer entry at a more manageable cost, often below $1 million.
Some even allow for different formats like full-service dine-in, food court outlets, or delivery-focused kitchens. This level of flexibility is a major advantage, allowing you to align your investment with your location, market conditions, and financial capacity.
Full-Service Experience or Strong Dining Atmosphere
Olive Garden has mastered the art of turning casual dining into an experience. From its cosy décor to attentive service, the brand creates an environment where people gather for birthdays, anniversaries, or midweek dinners with family.
A good alternative should offer more than just good food. It should deliver a setting where people feel welcome and relaxed. This full-service atmosphere is a core part of what makes Olive Garden successful, and it is a standard any comparable brand should meet.
Loyal Customer Base and National Recognition
One of Olive Garden’s biggest strengths is brand trust. Customers know what to expect before they walk through the door. That kind of recognition drives repeat business and reduces your marketing burden.
When evaluating alternatives, look for franchises with a recognisable name and an established reputation. If customers already associate the brand with quality and consistency, you are starting with a major advantage.
The more people know and love the brand, the faster you can build momentum in your location.
Top Alternatives to Olive Garden Franchise in The U.S.
Since Olive Garden remains off-limits for U.S.-based franchise investors, the next logical step is to explore restaurant concepts that offer similar appeal in cuisine and customer experience.
Several well-established brands offer strong franchise systems, delicious Italian-inspired menus, and welcoming dining environments that greatly mirror what Olive Garden delivers.
1. Fazoli’s
If you are searching for an Italian-American restaurant franchise that echoes Olive Garden’s flavour, familiarity, and family-friendly vibe, but without the corporate barriers, Fazoli’s is easily one of the strongest contenders.
Fazoli’s has carved out its space as a fast-casual Italian dining chain, delivering all the comfort of traditional pasta dishes with the speed and efficiency of quick-service operations. But what sets Fazoli’s apart is not just the food; it is the business model.
To become a Fazoli’s franchisee, you will need a net worth of $1.5 million and at least $500,000 in liquid capital. The franchise fee is $50,000, and total investment typically ranges from $1.5 million to $2.5 million, depending on location and restaurant size.
Franchisees pay a 5% royalty fee on gross sales and contribute an additional 4% to a national advertising fund. In return, you get a well-established brand with a strong operational support system and a loyal customer base. Franchise agreements run for 15 years, offering long-term stability and the opportunity to scale.
With over 200 locations and growing, Fazoli’s is proof that there is still plenty of room to thrive in the Italian dining space, even if Olive Garden has locked its doors to franchisees.
2. Buca di Beppo
If Olive Garden’s charm lies in its comfort and consistency, Buca di Beppo takes things further with bold personality and oversized portions. This Italian restaurant franchise thrives on its fun, eccentric atmosphere, red-and-white checkered tablecloths, vintage photos on every wall, and an unmistakably celebratory vibe.
But beyond the quirky décor and heaping bowls of pasta, Buca di Beppo offers a solid business proposition for franchisees who want to bring high-energy, full-service Italian dining to their community.
To open a Buca di Beppo, investors typically need $750,000 or more in liquid capital, with a total investment range between $1.5 million and $3 million. While the brand does not publicly list a franchise fee, its overall investment aligns with what you would expect from a well-established casual dining concept with strong name recognition.
Buca’s parent company, Earl Enterprises, provides robust support for franchisees, from training and marketing to real estate and operations. And because the concept thrives in markets that value family-style dining and group experiences, it offers a unique positioning among other Italian food franchises in the U.S.
For entrepreneurs looking for something a bit more theatrical and communal than Olive Garden, Buca di Beppo is a worthy alternative. It brings the soul of Italian dining, food, family, and fun into a franchisable package with wide customer appeal and a time-tested model.
3. Sbarro
For those who love the idea of Italian flavours but prefer a faster, more scalable model, Sbarro presents an attractive alternative to Olive Garden. While it does not offer the full-service, sit-down experience that Olive Garden is known for, Sbarro captures the essence of Italian-American food in a quick-service format.
Best known for its New York-style pizza slices, pasta dishes, and strombolis, Sbarro has become a familiar face in malls, airports, and high-traffic locations across the globe.
From a business standpoint, Sbarro’s model is considerably more affordable than other Italian franchise options. The total investment ranges from $211,900 to $1.06 million, depending on the format and location. Entrepreneurs must meet a net worth requirement of $400,000 to $2 million, with liquid capital between $150,000 and $300,000.
The franchise fee falls between $20,000 and $30,000, and the royalty fee is set between 5% and 7%, depending on the franchise agreement. The advertising fee is a low 1%, and the initial contract typically spans 10 years.
Sbarro’s major appeal lies in its flexibility. Unlike full-scale restaurants requiring large spaces and extensive staff, Sbarro franchises can thrive in compact, high-footfall environments like food courts, gas stations, and even non-traditional venues. This allows for lower overhead, faster break-even timelines, and easier scalability.
While it may not deliver the ambience or table service of an Olive Garden, Sbarro fills a different but equally valuable niche. For entrepreneurs focused on cost-effective entry, streamlined operations, and fast-moving service, Sbarro is a top alternative to the Olive Garden franchise with far fewer barriers to entry.
4. Russo’s New York Pizzeria
If you are seeking an Italian franchise with wide appeal, authentic flavours, and a U.S.-based franchising model, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen checks all the boxes.
It is one of the most promising Italian food franchises available in the U.S., blending New York-style pizza with classic Italian entrées in a fast-casual or full-service format.
Founded by Chef Anthony Russo, the brand is rooted in family recipes passed down through generations. The menu includes hand-tossed pizzas, baked pastas, calzones, soups, and desserts, all made with high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.
What makes Russo’s particularly attractive to franchisees is its flexibility. Investors can choose between a fast-casual format (ideal for smaller spaces and lower overhead) or a full-service restaurant with a larger footprint. This allows entrepreneurs to tailor the concept to their market and budget.
Franchise opportunities are available across the U.S., with franchise fees starting around $35,000 and total investment ranging from $395,000 to $950,000, depending on the model.
Royalty fees are typically 5%, and Russo’s offers robust training, real estate support, and marketing assistance to help new owners hit the ground running.
With a proven concept, adaptable formats, and authentic Italian-American cuisine, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is a strong Olive Garden franchise alternative.
5. Villa Italian Kitchen
If you are drawn to the familiar flavours and comforting classics of Olive Garden but want a more accessible, quick-service model, Villa Italian Kitchen offers a compelling alternative.
With nearly six decades of history and a strong national presence in malls, airports, and busy retail centres, Villa combines traditional Italian-American cuisine with convenience and franchising flexibility.
Founded in 1964, the brand is best known for its hand-tossed pizzas, baked pastas, strombolis, and fresh salads, all made with authentic ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. It delivers on the same promise that makes Olive Garden so successful: hearty, flavourful meals in a setting that is accessible to everyone.
Villa Italian Kitchen operates as a quick-service restaurant, which makes it ideal for high-footfall locations and streamlined operations. For franchisees, this translates to lower overhead, faster service, and more efficient staff management, without compromising food quality or customer experience.
From a financial standpoint, Villa is significantly more accessible than a full-service restaurant. The initial investment ranges from $296,950 to $894,000, depending on location and format.
To qualify, investors typically need a net worth of $250,000 to $300,000 and liquid capital of $100,000 to $250,000. The franchise fee ranges between $25,000 and $35,000, with a royalty fee of 6% on gross sales.
For eligible military veterans, Villa offers a 20% discount on the franchise fee, making it even more appealing for those transitioning from service to entrepreneurship. The standard franchise agreement spans 10 years, offering a long-term business opportunity supported by one of the most established Italian quick-service brands in the U.S.
For entrepreneurs who want a brand with a legacy, operational support, and real growth potential, Villa is a standout choice among Olive Garden franchise alternatives.
How to Choose the Right Olive Garden Franchise Alternative
Finding a franchise that feels like Olive Garden requires taking a closer look at your goals, finances, and long-term vision. While there are strong alternatives in the market, the right one for you depends on more than brand recognition.
Start With Your Investment Capacity
Your budget sets the tone for everything else. Full-service restaurants like Buca di Beppo or Johnny Carino’s will naturally demand a higher upfront investment, not just in build-out but in staff, operations, and ongoing management. On the other hand, concepts like Villa Italian Kitchen or Sbarro are more adaptable to tighter spaces and lower startup costs.
Consider how much capital you have readily available, what you are willing to risk, and how much working capital you will need post-launch.
A franchise might look promising on paper, but if it stretches your finances too thin, it can create pressure before the business even opens its doors.
Match the Model to Your Lifestyle and Experience
Owning a full-service restaurant can be rewarding, but it also requires hands-on involvement, large teams, and extended operating hours. If you prefer a faster pace with leaner operations, a quick-service or fast-casual model like Fazoli’s or Villa Italian Kitchen might be better suited to your goals.
Also, be honest about your background. Have you managed a restaurant before? Do you have hospitality experience, or will you be relying entirely on franchise support and staff? Some brands provide more robust training and operational handholding than others. The right fit often comes down to how much help you will need to succeed.
Evaluate the Market Fit
What works in one city may not work in another. A sit-down, high-capacity concept like Buca di Beppo might do well in suburban or tourist-heavy areas, while a mall-based Sbarro unit thrives on high foot traffic in urban settings.
Analyse your target location. Who lives there? What are their dining habits? What other Italian or casual dining options already exist?
A great franchise poorly placed can struggle to gain traction. Meanwhile, a smaller brand in the right spot can outperform expectations.
Think Long-Term
Opening day is just the beginning. What does the next five or ten years look like? Is the franchise growing? Are existing operators expanding into multiple units? Does the brand invest in innovation, technology, and marketing?
You are not just buying into a brand, you are buying into a system. The right franchise alternative to Olive Garden should support you well beyond the launch. It should offer room for growth, operational stability, and a clear vision for the future.
In the end, choosing the right alternative is as much about self-awareness as it is about brand potential.
By aligning your strengths, resources, and market with the right franchise concept, you can build a business that delivers both the spirit of Olive Garden and the success you are aiming for.
Conclusion
While Olive Garden remains a household name in Italian-American dining, it is not an option for U.S.-based entrepreneurs looking to buy a franchise. With all domestic locations corporately owned by Darden Restaurants, the dream of owning an Olive Garden restaurant is, for most investors, simply not possible.
But that does not mean your journey ends there. As you have discovered, there are several strong Olive Garden franchise alternatives offering just as much potential, if not more.
From full-service dining experiences like Buca di Beppo to fast-casual powerhouses like Fazoli’s and Villa Italian Kitchen, these brands capture the flavour, familiarity, and community appeal that made Olive Garden a success, but with accessible franchise models and supportive systems.
The right opportunity is out there. It is just a matter of aligning your financial readiness, operational goals, and market dynamics with a franchise that supports your growth.
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FAQs About Best Italian Restaurant Franchise Alternatives To Invest In 2025
Can I buy an Olive Garden franchise in the United States?
No. Olive Garden does not franchise in the U.S. All domestic locations are corporately owned and managed by its parent company, Darden Restaurants.
Does Olive Garden do franchises?
Not in the traditional sense. Olive Garden does not offer franchise opportunities in the U.S., but it occasionally enters into international licensing agreements with large, experienced operators in select global markets.
Who is the owner of the Olive Garden franchise?
Olive Garden is not franchised in the U.S. It is wholly owned and operated by Darden Restaurants, Inc., a publicly traded company that also owns brands like LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, and Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.
How profitable is Olive Garden?
Olive Garden is highly profitable, generating average annual unit volumes of over $4 million per restaurant. Its profit margins are estimated at 10%–15%, although exact figures are not publicly disclosed for individual units since they are not franchised.
Does Darden have franchises?
Darden primarily operates through corporate ownership and does not offer franchising for any of its brands in the United States. However, it does license a few of its concepts, including Olive Garden, internationally under strict agreements.
What are the best Olive Garden franchise alternatives in the U.S.?
Some strong alternatives include Fazoli’s, Buca di Beppo, Sbarro, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, and Villa Italian Kitchen, all of which offer Italian-American menus and proven franchise systems.
How much does it cost to open an Olive Garden-like restaurant franchise?
Depending on the brand, total investment ranges from $296,000 to $3 million or more, factoring in build-out, equipment, franchise fees, and working capital.
Is a full-service Italian franchise better than a quick-service one?
Both models have their advantages. Full-service restaurants offer a premium experience and higher check averages, while quick-service formats like Sbarro and Villa offer lower overhead and faster returns.
Are there Italian food franchises available for veterans?
Yes. Some brands, such as Villa Italian Kitchen, offer veteran incentives, including up to 20% off the franchise fee, making it easier for veterans to enter the franchise space.
How do I know which franchise is right for me?
Choosing the right franchise depends on your financial capacity, operational experience, lifestyle preferences, and local market conditions. Evaluate the support system, brand strength, and long-term growth potential before deciding.
