My friends and I have been getting bored on the weekends, so, I began to devise more plans for socializing while we hung out. For us, this translated into going out for some sit-down meals. 

Our go-to choice is typically Cafe Hollander in Brookfield, WI due to the restaurant’s extensive menu and warm ambiance; however, this time we decided to take another route at the Olive Garden in Delafield, WI.  

Upon arrival, we were immediately greeted and seated in a booth comfortable for all 3 of us. Our server was friendly and brought us a basket of garlic-buttered breadsticks. The breadsticks were soft, yet still cooked all the way, and I could taste the real butter and garlic salt spread on the top. 

After looking at the menu, it was clear that the restaurant offered many options at budget-friendly prices, ranging anywhere from the Tour of Italy to Herb-Grilled Salmon to Ravioli Carbonara. In addition, each meal comes with a choice of salad or one of their popular soups: Zuppa Toscana or Minestrone. 

I only drank water, but my friends got both Lemonade and Ginger Ale; both enjoyed these drinks thoroughly. We did not get any appetizers, however, we each ordered soup for our free choice. I tried Minestrone, which consisted of kidney beans, vegetables, shell pasta, and a tomato broth. Overall, the soup was flavorful; the only downside was my bowl did not have that much broth in it.

 For a main course, I tried out the Spaghetti with Meat Sauce for $13.49. To my surprise, the serving was large enough for two people. The spaghetti noodles were cooked al dente and the meat sauce was salty with hints of garlic and onion. I would order this menu item again. My friends stuck with the Never-Ending Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks. Each received a plate of salad with a salty, Italian dressing spilled on the top, and they both had two bowls of soup, experimenting with the different kinds that the restaurant specializes in. All in all, they thoroughly enjoyed their meals and felt satisfied.

If the taste of the food didn’t satisfy us enough, the ambiance of the restaurant was calming. With Tuscan decor spread along the walls and jazzy music wafting through the air, we could feel real Italian authenticity.  There was lots of seating and natural light; the restaurant was undoubtedly newer with modern renovations. 

All in all, my friends and I were exceptionally pleased with the food and service at this restaurant. We will most likely return to try other menu items. I would recommend Olive Garden to anyone looking for a calm, spirited environment, either for a date night, a night out with friends, or even just a take-home comfort meal after a long day. I have tried many different restaurants that specialize in Americanized Italian cuisine, yet I found this restaurant to be one of my favorites.