Mamma Mia! Olive Garden and its premise of never-ending breadsticks and unlimited salads is returning to Ontario, with Recipe Restaurant Group International (“Recipe”) confirming the next phase of its national rollout. The update comes after Recipe acquired all eight existing Olive Garden restaurants in Western Canada and signed a national development agreement with Darden Restaurants.
Olive Garden Brings Breadsticks and More Back to Ontario
As part of this plan, new locations are now being developed. The first will open at Vaughan Mills, the unofficial Italy of Ontario. Soon after, a second restaurant is expected in Ottawa’s Westboro neighbourhood. Both sites are already in active development, with openings planned for summer 2026. With these moves, the OG is beginning to grow beyond Western Canada, and additional locations are already entering early planning stages.
Ontario was home to several Olive Gardens, which quietly closed in the 90s. This new rebirth is a signal that our appetites never waned for this American chain.
According to Recipe, the expansion is being guided by confidence in the brand and in its partnership with US-based Darden. Because of this, the new restaurants will focus on delivering the familiar Olive Garden experience—consistent dishes, reliable value, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This approach is intended to create a strong foundation for long-term growth across Canada. In other words, this is likely the beginning of a new era for the Italian eatery.
Vaughn Mills is Split on this Italian Import
With such a vibrant and dynamic Italian community surrounding the Vaughn Mills mall, it’s an interesting location for the first restaurant. But, consider the Recipe’s headquarters are in Vaughn, and this project makes perfect sense.
Further updates on development progress will be shared as Olive Garden’s national expansion continues. Stay tuned as we keep a close eye on this rollout.
Lead photo courtesy Adobe Stock.