NRN presents Consumer Picks, a comprehensive look at customer preference and restaurant brand strength. This annual special report is produced with Datassential. Get the full report >>
Olive Garden, the restaurant chain for escaping to all things Italian, has been updating its look over the past several years and building its ambience strength in Consumer Picks.
The 800-unit division of Orlando, Fla.-based Darden Restaurants Inc. has invested in new tables, seating, booths and tableware, giving a contemporary face lift to the traditional Tuscan farmhouse decor. And in the remodeling campaign, the casual-dining chain has also spiffed up its exteriors, burnished its bar areas and made its waiting areas more inviting.
Related: 10 brands winning on food quality: Consumer Picks 2017
Its popularity was confirmed in September when its $100 “Never Ending Pasta Pass” promotion for eight weeks of unlimited pasta sold all 22,000 golden tickets in just a second.
See the top 10 finishers for ambience.