Olive Garden: Casual Eating on the Circle

The Olive Garden ... that's the place that's always running those TV commercials, right? If it's a big chain restaurant, how good could it be? Pretty good, actually.  

Aside from the fact that it's not exactly a  bargain, we had a very satisfying meal. We started  with a delicious  Hot Artichoke - Spinach Dip ($7.50), which was too much for two people. A crispy, fresh salad ( included with the entree) followed.  The Pear and Gorgonzola Ravioli with Shrimp ($14.25 ) was delicious,  if a bit sweet and rich. The Parmesan Crusted Tilapia ($14.95) was just right. Light and tasty, the oven-baked dish was served with italian vegetables over angel hair tossed in a light garlic-butter sauce.

Service was friendly and efficient.  The atmosphere was bright and pleasant, partially due to the jazz playing in the background. We did not  take advantage of the wine list or the dessert menu, but the Black Tie Mousse Cake and the Warm Apple Crostata looked particularly tempting.

A reasonably priced children's menu was also available.

If you go:

 227 Eisenhower Parkway
Livingston
Phone: (973) 992-0044
Fax: (973) 992-4138

Sun - Thurs: 11:00 A.M. - 10:00 P.M.
Fri - Sat: 11:00 A.M. - 11:00 P.M.