Horse hockey! I have lived in Italy and been to a variety of restaurants there. Olive Garden is above average compared to most of the locations along the Dolomites down to Venice.
I have also been to Carrabba's and find that a bit closer to local fare but prefer the Garden. Both have been Americanized but are comparable to what I have had in Italia.
I’m not impressed with the restaurants in italy. We have been from Florence to Venice and The Amalfi Coast. Nothing to write home about. Olive Garden is ok in a pinch but I find the food incredibly salty.