NEWS - Local Breaking News

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant has appointed Statesboro resident Vince Mercaldo as general manager of the new restaurant located in Statesboro Crossing at 201 Henry Blvd. in Statesboro.  The Tuscan Farmhouse-design Olive Garden will open on Monday, March 15.

As general manager, Mercaldo will be responsible for leading a team that maintains the highest quality of service in the restaurant.  Under his leadership, the restaurant team will deliver great food, wine and service that consistently exceed guests’ expectations.

“Vince is passionate about delighting guests with a genuine Italian dining experience,” said Valerie Insignares, executive vice president of operations for Olive Garden.  “His track record of operational excellence makes him a great leader for our restaurant’s service and culinary teams.”

Mercaldo brings more than 31 years of restaurant industry experience to his new position.  He has been with Olive Garden for three years, most recently as service manager of the Olive Garden located at 3565 Mall Blvd. in Duluth.  He received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Kennesaw State University and an associate’s degree in business from Lee College in Baytown, Texas.

Mercaldo is one of more than 1,000 managers who have trained at Olive Garden’s Culinary Institute of Tuscany and visited its Riserva di Fizzano restaurant, which serves as the source of inspiration for many dishes on Olive Garden’s menu. 

Those interested in applying for a position with Olive Garden should apply in person at the restaurant Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.  The phone number is (912) 764-6688.