Cedar Hill is set to welcome a new Olive Garden, as the City Council approved a conditional use permit for the restaurant during their regular meeting on June 10, 2025. Jim Powell, a development manager for Darden Restaurants, expressed excitement about the project, stating, "We're just excited to bring a new Olive Garden to Cedar Hill."

The new establishment will replace the former TGI Fridays building, which Powell noted was outdated and not conducive to modern operational standards. "Yes, we're going to tear that down and build a brand new Olive Garden," he confirmed. The anticipated timeline for construction is set to begin next month, with an expected opening in mid-April 2026.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the new addition, with Councilmember Glover humorously inquiring about the absence of breadsticks at the meeting. The community has shown a strong interest in having more dining options, and the Olive Garden is expected to meet that demand.

The new restaurant will span approximately 6,400 square feet, featuring a layout designed for efficiency and family dining, with a focus on celebrations rather than bar service. Powell emphasized the restaurant's commitment to being a good neighbor, stating, "We have a lot of birthdays, mother's days, celebrations."

As Cedar Hill continues to grow, the addition of Olive Garden marks a significant step in enhancing the local dining landscape, promising to bring both jobs and a beloved dining experience to the community.