October 17th is National Pasta Day, and for carb lovers, that means one thing – deals. Many restaurant chains celebrate by offering discounts, freebies, or half-price pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo, or a big bowl of mac and cheese, this is your chance to indulge without breaking the budget. Here you can grab some of the year’s best pasta deals with a fork.
1. Olive Garden: Free entree deal and buy-one deal
No National Pasta Day list would be complete without Olive Garden. Olive Garden’s never-ending pasta bowls are back this month. Therefore, they celebrate not only this day but the entire month of October.
2. Buca di Beppo: Half-price pasta classics
Buca di Beppo, known for its super-sized family portions, is offering some great deals during National Pasta Day. You can choose from the “Buca Bundle,” which includes spaghetti with a rich meat sauce or creamy fettuccine Alfredo, served with a crispy Caesar or assorted green salad and garlic bread, all for just $40. The deal is usually available to dine-in customers, but is sometimes available for takeout.
3. Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Free appetizers and pasta entrees
If you prefer a slightly upscale chain, Carrabba’s Italian Grill also offers specials for National Pasta Day. According to USA Today , dine-in customers who order a full entree can get a full pasta entree to take home for just $10. Double the pasta at an affordable price!
4. Maggiano’s Little Italy: Family Package
Maggiano’s focuses on comfort and value, with 2-course dinners starting at $20. This includes a salad and a full-size pasta entree. They often give out Pasta Day coupons to their loyal members. So the deal could be even sweeter. To top it all off, they also announced a Spaghetti Day gift card giveaway on Instagram. See details here.
5. Noodles & Company: Bonus-only freebies
Beloved fast-casual restaurant Noodles & Company is offering exclusive benefits to Noodles Rewards members. If you’re a new member, you’ll get free pasta with your first purchase. Their menu ranges from classic spaghetti and meatballs to healthier options like pesto Zoodles. Signing up ensures you receive push notifications or in-app discounts valid for the day.
6. Bertucci’s: Loyalty members get 50% off
East Coast chain Bertucci’s has many specials every week, with theme days such as “Wing Wednesday” and “Mangia Monday,” which include unlimited pasta and meatballs for $19.99. In the past, the chain has offered loyalty members 50% off pasta entrees during National Pasta Day week. Dishes like Chicken Broccoli Alfredo and Tomato Pasta are often the stars of promotions. The restaurant also sometimes offers half-off pizzas, making it a great choice for families.
7. Local Italian attractions and chain stores
Don’t overlook small or regional Italian restaurants. Many local restaurants have specials that are not advertised, especially those that are active on Facebook or Instagram. Searching “National Pasta Day” plus the name of your city can reveal hidden gems. Some local chains, like Fazoli’s or Romano’s Macaroni Grill, offer free pasta or discounted meals to email subscribers. Supporting local attractions is often valuable and authentic.
Pasta Day Rewards Go Further Than Dinner
If you missed October 17th, don’t worry, many chains are hosting pasta sales throughout the week. Joining the rewards program ensures you’ll receive reminders for future food holidays like National Pizza Day or Alfredo Day. Pasta may be a comfort food, but smart eaters know it’s also an opportunity to stretch your dining budget—one bowl at a time.
Have you discovered a hidden pasta deal near you? Share in the comments—and let’s build the ultimate list of National Pasta Day steals.
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