An Olive Garden customer shared a money-saving tip on TikTok that quickly went viral. Lucie, known as @xoxoluciee on the platform, revealed that she was able to order two pasta dishes for just $6.99 by ordering a kids’ meal and choosing a pasta as her side. This savvy move allowed her to maximize her meal and save money in the process, especially compared to the high prices of fast food meals at other chains like McDonald’s. She opted for fettuccine alfredo with a side of spaghetti, which also came with breadsticks and a drink for a total of less than $7.
In addition to the pasta deal, Lucie also purchased a premade five-cheese ziti entree with reheating instructions for just $6, bringing her total to $13. This was met with awe and admiration from TikTok viewers, with many expressing their excitement to try the money-saving hack for themselves. Some even offered additional suggestions, such as adding a large dipping sauce for extra breadsticks or boiling their own noodles to use the sauce on later. However, there were concerns about potential age restrictions for ordering off the children’s menu, as some fast food restaurants have cracked down on adults doing so.
Lucie’s clever dining hack was well-timed, as Olive Garden’s parent company, Darden Restaurants, had recently announced plans to increase menu prices by an average of 2-3% over the next year. This price increase was meant to help offset losses in customers and sales for the Italian chain. In contrast, Lucie’s method of ordering a kids’ meal to maximize pasta servings at a low cost offered a budget-friendly alternative for those looking to enjoy a meal out without breaking the bank. The inclusion of popular dishes like fettuccine alfredo and breadsticks made her strategy even more appealing to hungry diners.
The TikTok video showcasing Lucie’s two-for-one pasta deal garnered over 100,000 views and attracted comments from impressed viewers eager to replicate her money-saving technique. Many were amazed by the value and quantity of food she was able to get for such a low price at an establishment known for its generous portions. The positive reactions to Lucie’s dining hack highlighted a growing trend of consumers seeking ways to save money on food in the face of rising prices and economic challenges. By taking advantage of special offers and menu loopholes, resourceful diners like Lucie were able to stretch their dining dollars further.
Ultimately, Lucie’s experience at Olive Garden served as a reminder that finding creative ways to save money on dining out can result in significant savings. Her two-for-one pasta deal showcased the potential for diners to enjoy delicious meals at popular restaurants without overspending. As inflation and rising prices impact consumers across various industries, including food and dining, Lucie’s life hack offered a practical and timely solution for those looking to eat well on a budget. By sharing her cost-effective dining strategy with a wide audience on TikTok, Lucie empowered others to explore similar options and make the most of their dining experiences without breaking the bank.
