North Dakota has lost a beloved journalism legend. Marilyn Hagerty, the Grand Forks newspaper columnist who became an internet sensation for her Olive Garden review, died Tuesday at age 99, according to the Grand Forks Herald. Her 2012 review was upbeat and authentic; it praised the chain’s chicken Alfredo as “warm and comforting,” and most memorably, crowned Olive Garden as the “largest and most beautiful restaurant now operating in Grand Forks.” The article received hundreds of thousands of online views almost overnight.
The earnest review went viral and drew snobby, cynical internet commentators who found it amusing that a fast-casual chain restaurant could unironically be the talk of the town. It caught the attention of late-great celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, who defended her perspective from the inflow of internet condescension and later published a book of her columns. Hagerty appeared as a guest judge on Top Chef: Seattle, and received multiple awards for her work in the media, including an honorary degree from UND in 2021.
With over 70 years in journalism, Hagerty was known for her genuine approach to food writing and deep connection to her community. She continued writing for the Grand Forks Herald until last year. She left an indelible mark on North Dakota journalism.
Comments