When it comes to dining, baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, tend to prefer popular brands such as Cracker Barrel, The Cheesecake Factory, Panera Bread and Outback Steakhouse. However, according to the YouGov brand index, one restaurant stands above all the others: Olive Garden.
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While Olive Garden typically serves up meals at a good price, there are also ways to get a better value next time you visit. Here are three ways retirees can save money the next time they head to Olive Garden.
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Join the eClub
If you frequent Olive Garden, consider joining the Olive Garden eClub. Members receive deals, promotions and offers sent to their email. By signing up, you’ll get free appetizers with the purchase of an entree, delivery discounts and “buy one entree, get one free” deals, depending on availability. You’ll also get a free dessert or discount coupon if you show up on your birthday.
Joining the Olive Garden eClub is free and only takes a few minutes. Head to the eClub sign-up page and fill in the details for some easy savings the next time you visit.
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Bring Your Own Wine
As an Italian-American restaurant, Olive Garden has an extensive wine list. When you see the menu, you can scan through a variety of reds, whites and rosés to find the best match for your entree. If you’re unsure of what to get, Olive Garden offers wine samples that you can try first. This can save you a bit of money and keep your palate happy.
Depending on the location, you may be able to bring your own bottle of wine. If you already have a bottle at home or prefer to bring something less expensive than those listed on the menu, it can save you some extra cash. Remember, this isn’t a universal policy, so it’s best to call ahead and see if it’s allowed in the location near you and you may need to pay a $7 fee.
Keep an Eye Out for Limited-Time Offers
Olive Garden often comes out with limited-time offers that can help you save big — if you’re paying attention. Remember, these deals come and go and aren’t available at every location, so it’s best to check with your nearest location before you firm up your plans.
Recently, the restaurant chain brought back a fan favorite after a five-year hiatus: the Buy One, Take One deal. For this deal, if you buy a qualifying dine-in entree, you’ll get to select a second dish to take home with you and have at your convenience.
Another popular menu item was the Never Ending Pasta Bowl. For this deal, you’d choose from a variety of pasta combinations and eat to your heart’s content. You can even add endless protein toppings for a few extra bucks. The Never Ending Pasta Bowl is an excellent way to get your money’s worth when it’s available.
A third savings option is Early Dinner Duos, where anyone who is willing to eat before the dinner rush pays less. This deal takes place Monday through Thursday between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. and can be an excellent option to get a quiet meal for a low price.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Ways Retirees Can Save Money at Olive Garden
