Olive Garden Joliet: City Learns When It Will Open

JOLIET, IL ? One of the biggest questions on the minds of Joliet area citizens concerns the Olive Garden restaurant being built near the Interstate 55 exit and Route 30. Less than two weeks ago, Joliet's City Council approved a liquor license for the Olive Garden. At the meeting, Councilwoman Jan Quillman asked when the Olive Garden would be opening.

City Manager Jim Capparelli responded that he had not received information about a grand opening date.

On Wednesday, city of Joliet economic development director Cesar Suarez had some clarity.

Suarez has learned that Olive Garden expects to be open during the month of April.

Suarez said it's his understanding that Olive Garden would be hosting various soft opening events to celebrate.

To say that Joliet officials are excited to get an Olive Garden would be an understatement. Joliet even issued a press release in November 2021 when the news became official: Olive Garden agreed to break ground on a new restaurant in Joliet at The Boulevards.

"Enjoy Never-Ending servings of our famous breadsticks, garden fresh salad and homemade soup. Made fresh daily at a price you?ll love," the Olive Garden website proclaims.

Back on Nov. 8, 2021, Joliet Chamber of Commerce vice president Mike Paone told Patch that the news of Olive Garden's expansion shows that Joliet's economy is strong and "it goes to show that a national chain that has long been sought is taking notice of all the positive developments and revitalization of the restaurant industry.

"This should be one of the biggest announcements ever. It should satisfy the thousands that have been hungry for the presence of Olive Garden for the past dozen plus years."

Related Joliet Patch coverage:

Joliet: You Finally Got An Olive Garden, Now What?

Joliet's Olive Garden: Here's When It Should Open