Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
The Mission Economic Development Corporation proudly announces the grand opening of the first Olive Garden in Mission, Texas. The much-anticipated event was graced by several dignitaries, including Mission Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza, Mission Councilwoman Marissa Gerlach, Adrianne Ellie Gomez from Senator Ted Cruz’s office, and Laura Mariano from Rep. Sergio Muñoz’s office.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony commenced with a heartfelt speech from Mission EDC CEO Teclo Garcia, who expressed his excitement and gratitude for the new addition to the city. Garcia highlighted the corporation’s role in bringing businesses to Mission and expanding local enterprises. He praised the collaboration with Darden Restaurants, the parent company of Olive Garden, for their support and partnership. Garcia also emphasized the importance of community support in making the Olive Garden opening a reality and announced a generous donation of $25,000 from Olive Garden to the local food bank.
“Olive Garden’s donation proves their commitment to being an integral part of our community,” said Garcia. “We are thrilled to welcome them and look forward to more such partnerships that benefit our city.”
Carlos Santos, the general manager of the new Olive Garden location, also spoke at the event. He shared his enthusiasm for the opening and appreciated the community’s warm welcome. Santos highlighted his team’s hard work in preparing for the grand opening and reiterated Olive Garden’s commitment to providing a family-like dining experience.
“Our slogan, ‘When you’re here, you’re family,’ truly reflects how we feel about our guests,” said Santos. “We are here to offer exceptional dining experiences and create lasting memories with our community.”
Santos also emphasized the new Olive Garden’s positive impact on local employment, noting that the restaurant has created over 160 job opportunities in Mission. This development keeps job growth local, reducing the need for residents to seek employment outside the city.
Olive Garden, known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, offers a range of Italian-American dishes that cater to various tastes. With over 1,900 locations worldwide, the restaurant chain is celebrated for its culinary innovation, attentive service, and commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.
As the first Olive Garden in Mission, this new establishment promises to be a vibrant addition to the community, offering not only delicious food but also numerous opportunities for local residents. The Mission EDC, along with the city council and community members, looks forward to the continued success and positive impact of Olive Garden in Mission.
Welcome to Olive Garden, where when you’re here, you’re family.
