How To Get A Free Meal From Olive Garden

Comfort food from Olive Garden just got a lot easier — and cheaper — to get as the COVID-19 crisis drags on, and not a moment too soon. Many people are well into week two or three of self-quarantine and social distancing by staying home. While this is the best way to keep yourself and others safe, we're sure some people are already tired of cooking. Olive Garden's new buy one, get one promotion is arriving just in time for some relief from the kitchen (via Today).

The popular casual Italian chain announced on Monday, March 23 that they will be offering a free to-go meal with every purchase of a "buy one" option. This means your favorite kinds of classic pastas like fettuccini alfredo, lasagna, ziti, ravioli, spaghetti with meat sauce, and even chicken Parmigiana are on the menu. Next, for the "get one," customers can order a free pasta of equal or lesser price (which includes the same options with the exceptions of lasagna and chicken Parmigiana) that will already be cooled and packaged so it's ready for your refrigerator.

While Olive Garden's promotions are typically dine-in, this one is exclusively takeout or delivery only to help ensure the health and safety of staff and customers during the COVID-19 outbreak. Orders can be placed over the phone or online, and staff can even meet customers at their car with orders for curbside pick-up. In similar fashion to other chains running takeout and delivery specials, like Domino's Pizza recently did, there is a contactless delivery option to minimize face-to-face interactions as well.

Also, customers in most states who spend at least $40 are eligible for free delivery. California, Oregon, and Washington state residents, however, must meet a $75 minimum for free delivery. Entrées start at $12.99 and increase, though soup or salad and, of course, breadsticks are included (via Olive Garden). With so many options, meeting the minimum for free delivery shouldn't be hard. Don't forget to order dessert too. Everyone who successfully stays home and maintains social distance standards deserves a sweet treat.