October 17 marks National Pasta Day, and for carb lovers, that means one thing—deals. Many restaurant chains celebrate by offering discounts, freebies, or half-price pasta dishes. Whether you crave spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo, or a giant bowl of mac and cheese, this is your chance to indulge without breaking your budget. Here’s where to twirl your fork for the best pasta deals this year.
1. Olive Garden: Free Entrée Deals and Buy-One Offers
No National Pasta Day list is complete without Olive Garden. Olive Garden’s Never-Ending Pasta Bowl made a return this month. So, they aren’t only celebrating the day, they are celebrating the entire month of October.
2. Buca di Beppo: Half-Off Pasta Classics
Known for oversized family portions, Buca di Beppo has some great deals for National Pasta Day. You can opt for the “Buca Bundle,” which includes Spaghetti with rich Meat Sauce or creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, served alongside a crisp Caesar or Mixed Green Salad and garlic bread, all for just $40. Deals typically apply to dine-in customers but can sometimes extend to takeout.
3. Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Free Appetizer with Pasta Entrée
If you prefer a slightly upscale chain, Carrabba’s Italian Grill is also offering a special for National Pasta Day. According to USA Today, dine-in customers who order a full-sized entree will get a full-sized spaghetti entree to take home for just $10. Double the pasta for a good price!
4. Maggiano’s Little Italy: Family Meal Bundles
Maggiano’s leans into comfort and value with its 2-course dinner starting at $20. This includes a salad and a full-sized pasta entree. They often release Pasta Day coupons for loyalty members. So, deals might be even sweeter. On top of that, they announced a gift card giveaway for Pasta Day on Instagram. Check out the details here.
5. Noodles & Company: Rewards-Only Freebies
Fast-casual favorite Noodles & Company offers exclusive deals to Noodles Rewards members. If you’re a new member, you get a pasta on the house after your first purchase. Their menu ranges from classic Spaghetti & Meatballs to healthier options like Zoodles with Pesto. Signing up ensures you’ll receive push notifications or in-app discounts valid on the day itself.
6. Bertucci’s: Loyalty Members Get 50% Off
East Coast chain Bertucci’s has a number of specials throughout the week, with themed days like Wing Wednesday and Mangia Monday, which includes all-you-can-eat spaghetti and meatballs for $19.99. In the past, the chain has offered 50% off pasta entrées for loyalty members during National Pasta Day week. Dishes like Chicken Broccoli Alfredo and Spaghetti Pomodoro usually headline the promotion. The restaurant also sometimes extends its half-off deal to pizza, making it a great family option.
7. Local Italian Spots and Chains
Don’t overlook small or regional Italian restaurants. Many local eateries run unadvertised specials, especially those active on Facebook or Instagram. Searching “National Pasta Day” plus your city name can reveal hidden gems. Some local chains like Fazoli’s or Romano’s Macaroni Grill offer free side pasta or discounted meals for email subscribers. Supporting a local spot often delivers both value and authenticity.
Pasta Day Rewards Go Further Than Dinner
If you miss October 17, don’t worry—many chains keep pasta promotions running for the entire week. Joining rewards programs ensures you’ll get alerts for future food holidays like National Pizza or Alfredo Day. Pasta might be comfort food, but smart diners know it’s also a chance to stretch their dining budget—one bowl at a time.
Did you find a hidden pasta deal near you? Share it in the comments—let’s build the ultimate list of National Pasta Day steals together.
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