Restaurant Olive Garden

Had lunch here recently and overall it was a really nice experience. The food portions were just right, not too much, not too little. The steak was nicely seasoned, though it could’ve used just a touch more salt. The pasta was a bit on the oily side, but still tasty and definitely acceptable. The vibe of the place was relaxed, and the service stood out. Our server was super chill and friendly, made us feel welcome and really took good care of us throughout. Paired the meal with a glass of red wine, which went down very smoothly. Nice ambiance inside with a cozy setup, and the outdoor seating looked perfect for a sunny day.

This was my first time ordering redfish at Olive Garden Leiden, and I asked for it extra crunchy—they made it perfectly! I was especially touched that they noticed I always hold my fork in my right hand and placed it on the right side of the table for me. It made my heart so happy! We also swapped the spaghetti for fresh fried potatoes, cooked exactly to our preference—extra crispy and absolutely delicious. I love hot food, and they even added chili in special olive oil for me, which made the dish perfect. The staff were attentive and went out of their way to make everything exactly how I like it. For great Italian food in Leiden with such thoughtful touches, Olive Garden is a must-try! Rohini ♥️

Unfortunately, I can’t say we had a great time at this restaurant, and I’m sad to say that looking at other reviews. It was our anniversary and we really wanted to have a special evening. Upon arriving everything seemed fine. It was Tuesday night, not many tables occupied, not busy at all. Two people working, a girl and a boy. I am not sure what were their responsibilities, but it looked as the boy did majority of the things. Anyway, we were sat at our table and no one bothered to bring menus for good couple of minutes, even though they were not doing anything. I finally waved at the girl, and she brought them. When we were ready to order, same situation. We were in the restaurant for 20min and still didn’t order (and as I said, there were maybe 4 tables in total). I saw the girl just standing there doing nothing, the boy was a bit more busy. I look at her intently, smile. She still doesn’t come. So after a couple of minutes, I wave again. Then finally the boy comes and takes the order. This wasn’t pleasant either - not sure if it’s because of English, but not very approaching type of service. After that, I honestly didn’t care anymore. We ate the food (which was great! So chefs are definitely amazing there), and left. Did not even stay for a desert… Pretty sad experience. Maybe we were unlucky with the staff.

Absolutely love this place! The host was incredibly welcoming, the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was super warm and inviting. A true gem!

My husband was in Leiden frequently for work. He would always rave about this restaurant. When we visited this past Spring we went for dinner twice! Service is wonderful, the choices of appetizers and dinners are delicious and the desserts were perfect. This is definitely on our list next time we visit

First time ever in this restaurant. I was genuinely surprised that it was fully packed upon my arrival. That’s gotta say something about it. The food was great. It’s almost funny to see old-fashioned plates like these. The bread sticks before dinner were a bit lumpy and not all crunchy (they were free though). A tip that I’d give is that you should give customers at least decent steak knives for steaks. The knives we got were not ideal.

Food - Delicious! We took the pasta menu and it looked and was delicious. The pauses in between the dishes were perfect. Dessert was very good too! Service - Very friendly waiters and although it was really busy, the food came pretty quick! Atmosphere - Great ambience, nice music, lights are dimmed, candle-light dinner. Other - Somewhat pricy for the portions you get... Overal - Very recommended!

My favorite Italian of all time. Kind staff the best food and matching wine. Enjoyed ourselves.

not associated with the american chain of the same name: excellent food in an upscale restaurant. one of the best italian places we have been.

This is what The Olive Garden should really be like in the states. We enjoyed a delicious pre-fix meal that was beautifully plated. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or out with your friends. Reservations recommended

Fantastic Italian restaurant. Superb service in multiple languages, excellent food, and reasonable prices. After our original plan got canceled at the very last minute (see my koetjes & kalfjes review) we showed up with 18 people with only 30 minutes notice! This was a relatively quiet evening (Tuesday) but we were accommodated with surprising ease, coats were taken and put on hangers, and we were given ample time to settle in and decide on dishes, drinks, etc. The food was all pretty great. We had starters that included a.o. buffalo mozzarella, soup, and carpaccio. Mains ranged from pasta, ravioli, and gnocchi, to steak and risotto. We tasted various deserts and liqueurs. Everybody in our large and diverse group was very happy with both the food and atmosphere. The serving was just outstanding. Very patient and easy going. Only the entirely separate treatment (and time-shifted serving of dishes) of our two tables could have been a bit better. Split bills were no issue. Would definitely eat here again if I had the chance.

Excellent food, nice people, good atmosphere. Unfortunately it's hard to find a carpark near this place.

A very good Italian restaurant at a nice place. Nice terrace and good atmosphere inside. One of the only Italian restaurants that does not offer pizzas, but the rest of the food more than makes up for it. The olives and pasta are really good. Would recommend.