SELMA — AdVenture Development marked the opening of Olive Garden Italian Kitchen on Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Eastfield, the town’s 435-acre mixed-use development.
The restaurant adds a new dining option to Eastfield, a master-planned project that includes residential, retail and commercial space.
“We know our residents and visitors enjoy going out for a great meal,” said Kevin Dougherty, president of AdVenture Development. “We are proud to welcome Darden Restaurants, the premier leader in American full-service dining and parent company of Olive Garden, to Eastfield in Selma. Their partnership represents a significant investment in our local workforce and a profound commitment to our community’s well-being.”
As part of the celebration, Olive Garden donated $5,000 to the Partnership for Children of Johnston County. The contribution will support early childhood education, family well-being and community enrichment programs.
Eastfield encompasses approximately 3 million square feet of planned development. Residential components include 211 single-family homes, a senior living community and Eastfield Village, a 348-unit apartment complex currently under construction.
Commercial features include a retail center, business park, medical facilities, coworking space, hospitality venues, restaurants and entertainment offerings.
Recently completed projects at Eastfield include a 375,000-square-foot retail center and Eastfield Business Park Building 100, which houses Veetee and Crystal Window & Door Systems. The Triangle East Collaborative, also located within the development, is home to Old North State Food Hall, Longleaf Tavern, JR Cigar, Shield Republic and Carolina Wholesale Flooring.
Dining and Cooking