Restaurants
Darden Restaurants, Inc.This business is NOT BBB Accredited.
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Complaints
This profile includes complaints for Darden Restaurants, Inc.'s headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see
Customer Complaints Summary
- 207 total complaints in the last 3 years.
- 80 complaints closed in the last 12 months.
If you've experienced an issue
Submit a ComplaintThe complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.
Initial Complaint
Date:12/16/2022
Type:Customer Service IssuesStatus:ResolvedMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
On 12/6 my husband had sent something to your guest relations in regards to an allergy I had and how your *************** **** longhorn steakhouse which you own - continues to disregard any special notes on your mobile app. Some ************************* saying she was director of operations for ************* and RI wrote and then called. She was explained the situation and pretended that she took this seriously which clearly she did not. She did tell my husband to call in the order which he should not have to and so without me knowing he placed an order at **** on 12/15 and it was messed up again not just with the seasoning I'm allergic to but loaded with butter on the potatoes bc they can't read directions.My husband called and asked for the manager he got a ***** I believe who apologized which they think this is ok but words mean nothing when you don't follow up with actions. Supposedly he redid it at night and it was done right and he gave my husband a free dinner as well. **** was supposed to give a card out but Clearly that's honestly not what we want is free food or 50 dollars as the manager gave tonight ..I don't believe **** ever spoke to this location and the manager says he usually watches the kitchen but he's been extremely busy so allergies don't mean anything to them as I can clearly see.So I want to speak to someone higher than **** because she's useless otherwise as my husband told her this will go legal.Business Response
Date: 12/19/2022
Our Guest Relations will communicate with the operations leadership and follow up with the guest.Customer Answer
Date: 12/23/2022
--------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Bree **** <********************>
Date: Wed, Dec 21, 2022 at 8:26 AM
Subject: Re: BBB Complaint Case# ******** (Ref#***-200618-********-6-1100)
To: Better Business Bureau <*****************************************>
*****
I already told the director of operations that this is in an attorneys hands so you can close this case with this response as I can't get the link to work
Thanks
***************************Initial Complaint
Date:12/09/2022
Type:Customer Service IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I love Olive Garden. I eat at the ************************************************************** location often. The last to go order I purchased a couple of months ago and I asked to speak to the manager, but no one contacted me. Today, I ordered the unlimited soup and salad to take to work. I was charged $31.28 and I tipped $6.88 (22%), for a total of $38.16. I asked why the bill was three times the normal rate and was told that they charge for each soup to the to go customers and the dine in customers are not charged past their first bowl of soup. This is unfair. My salad was brown. I would like to discuss this with the **** please.Business Response
Date: 12/13/2022
This guest was charged correctly for the three soups ordered. While we offer never ending refills when dining in, we cannot offer the unlimited refills for takeout. Our To Go soups are larger than the first serving of soup received when dining in.
We're sorry to hear the salad was not at its peak of freshness and have sent a complimentary gift card to make up for their disappointment.Initial Complaint
Date:12/02/2022
Type:Product IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
Yes, on 11/26/22, we had dined at a Darden's Olive Garden location in Vienna, VA at 8133 Leesburg Pike per the attached receipt, which my spouse and I both weren't afforded the Veterans Discount, as we had to repeat our-selves to the waitress that we both hadn't received cards, but we were both Veterans. Thus, we should have only been charged Drinks and extra. We're not certain why the retail community at large hires non-english speaking workers here in America, but we don't buy into the woke agenda, and English is the primary language in America. But anyhow, we believe we're still owed a refund of $15.99 plus applicable taxes. Thanks!Business Response
Date: 01/06/2023
Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/12/07) */
We've been in touch and provided compensation for this disappointing experience. We appreciate the opportunity to address this and make it right.
Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/12/08) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Hi there, to the contrary indicated, I personally have not spoken with anyone directly regarding any consolation or credit for this experience, thus am requesting additional contact at this time please.
Thanks,
Mr.********
Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2022/12/09) */
Our restaurant managers have attempted to reach this guest by phone but have been unsuccessful. The compensation has been issued as promised.
Consumer Response /* (4200, 11, 2022/12/09) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Yes, I would like direct contact by the business. There was only 1 missed call with NO message left. I'm currently unaware of any credit! Thanks!
Business Response /* (4000, 13, 2022/12/12) */
We've issued compensation as promised. This guest is welcome to give us a call at the restaurant if he wishes to discuss this further.
Consumer Response /* (4200, 15, 2022/12/12) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Hi there, I still have not received any notification or receipt of any credit or compromise. Thus, I am unable to release this complaint until I'm certain of any credit!?!? This location states that I am welcomed to contact them, but who do I ask for, or why don't they simply reach out to me directly?Initial Complaint
Date:11/14/2022
Type:Product IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
11/13/22
$73.79
Didn't receive all the meals I ordered and was charged for.
Attempted to contact merchant directly 15+ times the day of the error to not get an answer. Once I reached a rep on the 15th try they disconnected after voicing my concerns.
Called 11/14/22 and spoke with manager Vince who didn't believe my issue. He advised that couldn't have happened and he would be reaching out to staff members to verify the error before providing me with a resolution. There was no customer service provided nor satisfaction to ensure that the customer issue was resolved or handled delicately. Basically called me a liar. Vince advised he would give a call back by the end of business on 11/14 no later than 11/15 to advise what the findings were from his employees.
I would like a full refund for the terrible service and the fact that no one attempted to correct/rectify my issue immediately.Business Response
Date: 12/20/2022
Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/11/17) */
We spoke to the guest and resolved.Initial Complaint
Date:11/08/2022
Type:Billing IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
The Restaurant had cockroaches under our table when we asked for a manager we were asked to leave bc the server Gary then lied to thr Mgr Chrissy about something that was NEVER said the Mgr cursed & screamed at us told us to leaver her****** Restaurant. So I contacted Cooperate spoke with Rico who was useless as to resolving the issuesBusiness Response
Date: 12/20/2022
Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/11/15) */
Situations such as this are thoroughly investigated as we value all our guest and employees. We don't tolerate any type of disruptive behavior in our restaurants and address each situation individually with support from local authorities when appropriate. Here, the decision was made to ask the guests to leave after members of their party made threatening comments and used inappropriate language toward our staff. Notably, despite the disruption caused by the guests, the restaurant comped the guest bill $170.75, so the guests were not required to pay for their meal.
Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/11/17) */
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: **********************************
Date: Wed, Nov 16, 2022 at 6:21 PM
Subject: Re: BBB Complaint Case#******************************************
To: Better Business Bureau *******************
No one used any foul language or threatened anyone except the manager CHRISSY if u pull the video footage u will c this to b the truth NOT what they r saying happened!
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2022/11/17) */
We have completed the investigation and taken appropriate action.Initial Complaint
Date:10/30/2022
Type:Product IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
My mother and I visited Seasons 52 in Paramus, NJ on October 28, 2022 for my 50th Birthday Dinner. Upon walking into the restaurant, we were shocked that it was dirty and dingy looking, despite being opened only several months prior. (later when we visited the bathroom, we were also appalled how dirty it was with paper towels strewn all over the floor). Once we were seated, our server didn't offer us water or bread. The food we ordered (scallops) were charred (a sign that the kitchen grill is dirty) and when dessert time came around, we had to sit through a presentation of the mini indulgences. This "presentation" is not appealing to guests as the same sample is used over and over again to show to restaurant patrons. Not very safe and sanitary in the age of COVID! We also heard this server being rude to the patrons at the table next to us - when they complained that they had to wait a long time to get dessert, she raised her voice and said that they are very busy.
What was supposed to be an exciting and memorable 50th birthday night, was subpar to say the least. It was very disappointing and this will be the last time we come to this restaurant. The staff needs to be trained better - from what they wear, to how the present themselves, to how they deal with customers. The restaurant itself needs to be kept cleaner and be better organized overall. I hope these comments will be taken to heart - I had visited the Orlando Seasons 52 years back and had a good experience there, so was shocked at the different one I had here in NJ.Business Response
Date: 01/04/2023
Business Response /* (1000, 8, 2022/11/22) */
We are very sorry to hear this, Ms. *****. We are equally surprised by the condition of the ladies' restroom you described. We should be checking and maintaining them constantly and apologize about their condition the other night.
We did want to let you know that the mini indulgence presentation is comprised of an artificial display of our options. One you have chosen, we bring out the genuine dessert for you to enjoy. Regardless, we sincerely apologize for your overall experience and for the service we rendered - definitely not up to our usual standards.
We appreciate your candid feedback and look forward to speaking with you soon to address appropriately.
Consumer Response /* (3000, 10, 2022/11/23) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I would like to hear from the manager of the restaurant
Business Response /* (4000, 12, 2022/11/28) */
Absolutely, Ms. *****. We have a reminder out to our Manager Partner, Nikki, about the status of that promised follow-up. Thank you for this opportunity. We have an email open with you where we will continue to conversation.Initial Complaint
Date:10/24/2022
Type:Product IssuesStatus:ResolvedMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I was with a large party at the Olive Garden at the 1049 W Mercury Blvd, Hampton, VA 23666 around 6:00-6:15pm on Sunday 10/23/2022 in the back for a baby shower and I order the chicken Alfredo with broccoli and it was very cold, their was a piece of hair in my food and when I tried to alert the waitress she had an attitude. It took forever to be seated and to order anything, I received the wrong ticket to pay and the whole experience was horrible I didn't finish my meal at all and want my money back. Last four of my card is***** and my meal was $24.95 with a $5.00 tip added so the total was $29.95.Business Response
Date: 11/09/2022
Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/10/27) */
This consumer contacted us directly, and we've addressed her concerns. We appreciate the opportunity to make things right.
Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/10/27) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Just want my refund
Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2022/10/28) */
Refund has been issued.
Consumer Response /* (2000, 11, 2022/10/28) */
(The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)Initial Complaint
Date:10/24/2022
Type:Product IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I place an order this past 10/22/22 Saturday on **** . First one out of the fourth dishes got the wrong one . Second and most important the quality of the food was terrible . Starting from the pasta to the wrong dish salmon with broccoli . The vegetables were bad and brown . The chicken was like rubber . The pasta had a different taste than wen I used to eat it before . Who knows if it was friesen food or old .
I got a credit for the wrong dish they **** . But all my friends took their plates homes and told me their issuesBusiness Response
Date: 12/08/2022
Business Response /* (1000, 8, 2022/11/10) */
Our restaurant manager has been in touch and issued a complimentary gift card.Initial Complaint
Date:10/17/2022
Type:Customer Service IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
This Olive Garden location has a very blatantly racist guy named *******. I guess he's a server. But all you have to do is visit this location on a day where ******* is working and watch him serve black tables and what he says when he walks away. He's disrespectful on multiple levels and very racists. I go to this location often because I work in the area. This guy is so disrespectful and racist and the General Manager can be standing right there and will do nothing but laugh like he agrees with ******* . It's most certainly uncomfortable for the guests and it's got to be uncomfortable for his coworkers considering a few are black. I believe something needs to be done before ************* *******. Like this is a huge problem.Business Response
Date: 11/17/2022
Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/10/21) */
Earlier this week, we emailed this guest to find out what restaurant they dined in. We hope to hear back soon.Initial Complaint
Date:10/11/2022
Type:Product IssuesStatus:ResolvedMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
My son's birthday was Friday, Oct. 7th. He came to Charlotte to spend the day. I wanted to take him to dinner Saturday evening. Saturday morning around 10:00 a.m. I called Cheddars located at: 320 University Center Blvd. in Charlotte to make a reservation. A man with a very nice voice answered the phone. I told him it was my son's birthday, and I wanted to make a reservation for 6:00 p.m. Saturday Oct. 8th. We arrived to the location around 5:48. We were a few minutes early, but we went to the reception's stand to check in. She asked for my name. I made the reservation in the name of Dr. Will T****. She looked through the tabled at her station to find my reservation. She said; "I'm sorry but your name is not on the list. There were at least 30 people waiting to be seated. The reason for calling to make a reservation was to avoid a long line. She called the Area Manager Kazzie/Cassie. She came over, scrolled through the names in device. She indicated my name was not on the list. I explained the situation. She indicated she knew who was on duty at that time. Well we were not seated. In fact she went on to say, they didn't take reservations. I told her, then why are you scrolling through the tablet to find my name if you don't take reservations. We had to wait 38 minutes before being seated. I was not a happy camper. I told her I was going to report Cheddar's to BBB...she said go right ahead. She was very arrogant, and condescending. I hate to file this report, as Cheddar's has been one of my favorite restaurants over the past six years. This is the first time I have encountered a situation of this nature. The Area Manager, Kassie/Cassie doesn't have the personality to work with people....or was it just because of the color of my skin. We should be reimbursed for dinner.Business Response
Date: 11/21/2022
Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/10/21) */
A member of the guest's party had already reached out to us via social media a couple days after their visit. Our Senior Vice President connected with him and extended a generous gift card to return as a group for a visit in the future. We appreciate this being brought to our attention.
Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/10/24) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
First and foremost, management indicated someone reached out to them on social media. That is a lie, and they have not extended a gift card, not even an apology for use having to wait so long after a reservation was made. I would appreciate a gift card. They may mail it to:
***********************************************************
Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2022/10/25) */
We've verified a gift card was sent to a member of this party and we hope they'll all join us again soon.
Consumer Response /* (4200, 11, 2022/10/27) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Dear Sir/Madam
The management at Cheddar's continue to tell lies. They indicated a gift card was mailed to someone in the party. There were on two people in my party. To whom was the gift card sent? Neither of us has received a gift care. Where was the gift card mailed? I have not exchanged any personal data with the restaurant.
Business Response /* (4000, 13, 2022/11/04) */
We have emailed the guest an electronic gift card and a note of apology. We hope he will return for another visit soon.
Consumer Response /* (2000, 15, 2022/11/08) */
------- Forwarded message ---------
From:**********************************
Date: Mon, Nov 7, 2022 at 12:29 PM
Subject: Re: BBB Complaint Case#*******************************************
To: Better Business Bureau********************
Ms. ********
I received an electronic gift card from cheddars restaurant on Saturday. I am very appreciative for receiving the card. I will continue to patronize Cheddar's. As stated previously cheddars is one of my favorite restaurants.
All the best,
Dr. *****
Darden Restaurants, Inc. is NOT a BBB Accredited Business.
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