City holds ribbon cutting for long-awaited Olive Garden

General manager Francisca Magana cuts the ribbon to celebrate the opening of the Olive Garden restaurant.

Acknowledging the public's desire for more upscale restaurants in Menifee, Mayor Bill Zimmerman joined City Council members and local dignitaries today in welcoming Olive Garden to the city.

Following a soft opening with meals served to invited guests over the weekend, the Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the restaurant, which is located in the Menifee Town Center at 27271 Newport Road. Residents have been asking about the opening date for weeks in anticipation of the restaurant's offering of specialty pasta dishes, salad and freshly baked breadsticks, all served in a welcoming atmosphere.

Francisca Magana, general manager of the restaurant, said nearly 200 local residents have been hired as employees of the restaurant. Some of those joined her and guests for the ribbon cutting ceremony. Proclamations were presented by Zimmerman, Assemblyman Kelly Seyarto and a representative of Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh's office.

"The City of Menifee has listened to the residents who want more upscale, sit-down restaurants in our city," Zimmerman said to Magana. "You are filling a need that we have. Thank you so much for being here."

Olive Garden is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and provides online pickup, curbside delivery and catering services.