Feeling hungry but watching your wallet? You’re not alone. Between busy schedules and tight budgets, cooking at home isn’t always feasible, and restaurant dining can quickly become expensive. Luckily, finding cheap food delivery near you is easier than ever. This guide will explore various strategies to enjoy delicious meals delivered right to your door without breaking the bank.
Smart Strategies for Scoring Cheap Food Delivery
Getting food delivered doesn’t have to be a luxury. With a bit of savvy, you can significantly cut down on costs and even snag free delivery. Here are some key methods to consider:
Leveraging Restaurant Apps and Exclusive Deals
Many popular restaurants are now offering deals directly through their own apps and websites that you simply won’t find on third-party delivery platforms. Think of these as the modern-day equivalent of mailed coupons, but much more convenient! Restaurants use these digital deals to encourage direct ordering and build customer loyalty. By skipping the middleman, you can often access lower prices and special promotions.
This means that if you’re just driving through or ordering at the counter, you could be missing out on considerable savings and deals tailored for delivery customers. To maximize your savings, it’s worth checking directly with your favorite restaurants first.
Direct Restaurant App Deals for Delivery Savings
Let’s dive into some specific restaurant examples where ordering directly through their app can lead to cheaper food delivery options:
McDonald’s
McDelivery through the My McDonald’s App can sometimes be cheaper than using third-party apps. While menu prices are generally consistent with in-restaurant costs, the app itself frequently offers deals like free delivery during promotional periods. Keep an eye out for app-exclusive coupons such as “Free Fries Fridays” or “buy-one-get-one-free” burger offers. While McDonald’s is also available on platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and GrubHub, delivery fees may apply unless you have a premium membership with those services.
Download the McDonald’s app here.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell often partners with Grubhub for delivery, and their website sometimes features promo codes for Grubhub, Uber Eats, and Postmates. Using the Taco Bell app allows for ordering ahead for pickup, but for delivery deals, checking their website for partner promotions or the Grubhub app directly is recommended. Keep in mind that free Grubhub delivery might require a minimum order, often around $12.
KFC
For your fried chicken cravings, KFC provides ordering through their website or app. They regularly feature promotions that can include discounted food items, beverages, or even waived delivery fees. Ordering via delivery apps like Grubhub is also an option, especially if you are a Grubhub+ member, as this can unlock free delivery on orders meeting a certain minimum, typically around $12.
Subway
Subway offers delivery through its website and app. Keep an eye out for limited-time free delivery promotions, which are sometimes offered for a month at a time. Promo codes and coupons for reduced-price items or delivery discounts are also occasionally available. For frequent Subway orders, consider a DashPass free trial for potential free delivery on orders over $10.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s encourages ordering through their app or via delivery partners like DoorDash, GrubHub, Postmates, or Uber Eats. Delivery promotions can often be found on the Wendy’s website or app, offering savings on delivery fees or specific menu items. Availability of delivery may vary by location. DashPass memberships can provide free delivery on Wendy’s orders over $10, and a 30-day free trial is usually available.
Domino’s
Domino’s facilitates online ordering for both delivery and pickup via their website and app. Always check their site and app for current discounts and coupons to lower your overall cost. While Domino’s doesn’t directly offer free delivery, GrubHub+ members in some areas might be eligible for waived delivery fees.
Pizza Hut
The Pizza Hut app, available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, makes ordering for pickup or delivery quick and convenient. Discounts on food items and delivery are frequently offered through the app and on the website. Uber Eats Eats Pass members may get free delivery, but comparing overall costs – including potential app coupons – is wise to ensure maximum savings.
Chick-Fil-A
Chick-Fil-A partners with national delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, GrubHub, and Postmates. You can also order directly through their website or app. Note that menu prices on delivered items are typically higher. While delivery through the Chick-Fil-A app isn’t free, a DashPass membership can unlock free delivery benefits.
Starbucks
Starbucks partners with Uber Eats for delivery services, sometimes offering free delivery promotions, though other service fees might still apply. Order directly through the Starbucks website or app, or even use voice commands like “Hey Siri, order Starbucks.” Joining the Starbucks Rewards program can also provide access to rewards, promotions, and discounts that can help lower your overall cost.
Popeye’s
Popeye’s often provides free delivery for orders exceeding $20 when ordered directly through their website or app. They also partner with Grubhub, DoorDash, and Postmates for delivery. Premium memberships with these third-party apps can grant free delivery. Delivery fees typically apply if ordering through third-party apps without a membership, ranging from $3.99 to $5.99 depending on the distance to the nearest Popeye’s location. Always watch for special offers and discounts advertised on their app and website.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread frequently offers $1 delivery on orders over $5 placed through their website and app. Keep in mind that menu prices might be slightly elevated for delivery, and additional fees could apply. Panera Bread often has a dedicated page for promo codes, discounts, and coupons. Uber Eats Eats Pass members can also enjoy free Panera Bread delivery.
Panda Express
For Chinese takeout, Panda Express delivers via their website and app. Watch for free delivery promotions, discounts, and coupons directly through their channels. Uber Eats Eats Pass members can also get free delivery. While Panda Express may charge around $5 for delivery when ordering via their app, menu prices might be lower compared to third-party apps, potentially making it a more cost-effective option depending on your order size.
Chipotle
Chipotle offers delivery through their website and app. Promotions like a $1 delivery fee are sometimes available, but be aware of potentially higher menu prices and service fees. Checking their website and app regularly for special offers is recommended. Free delivery is also an option through Uber Eats Eats Pass, but the potentially inflated menu prices might negate savings unless you have a specific Uber Eats promotion. Ordering directly through the Chipotle app is often more economical unless you have a substantial Uber Eats discount.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Some Dickey’s Barbecue Pit locations provide free delivery on orders exceeding $10. To check if your local Dickey’s participates, look for a “free delivery” button on their website or app and enter your address to confirm eligibility. The Big Yellow Cup Rewards program also earns you 10 points per dollar spent, redeemable for free food and exclusive discount offers for members.
Download the Dickey’s app here.
More Restaurant Chains with Potential Delivery Deals
Beyond these major chains, numerous other restaurants offer free delivery when ordering via their apps:
- Boston Market: Free delivery when ordering through their app or website.
- Bob Evans: Free Friday delivery through their website or app, with no minimum purchase required.
- Del Taco: Free delivery via Postmates using the code DELTACONOW (check for current validity).
- Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop: Free delivery for website orders.
- Rubio’s Coastal Grill: Free delivery on orders of $20 or more through their app or website.
- Torchy’s Tacos: No delivery fee for DoorDash orders (may be location-dependent).
- Blaze Pizza: Free delivery on Postmates orders over $15 (may be location-dependent).
- Five Guys: Free delivery on orders of $15 or more via the Five Guys website or app.
Remember to always check for minimum order amounts to qualify for free delivery through restaurant apps. And don’t overlook local restaurants! Many have their own apps or utilize delivery platforms and may also offer enticing free delivery promotions.
Pro Tip: Local gems can be a fantastic source for cheap food delivery near you. Many partner with delivery apps, and some offer their own in-house delivery services. Call your favorite local spots and ask about their delivery options and any current deals.
Exploring Free Meal Kit Delivery Offers
Meal kits can be a surprisingly affordable way to enjoy home-cooked meals, especially when you factor in introductory offers. Companies frequently provide significant discounts or even free boxes to attract new customers. For instance, HelloFresh often offers a free box containing several meals for new subscribers. You can often get a free trial box by signing up here. You can cancel your subscription at any time, even immediately after receiving your free box. Even if you don’t continue with the service long-term, taking advantage of free meal kit boxes can provide several days’ worth of free delivered meals, which is incredibly helpful when you’re on a tight budget.
Utilizing Free Grocery Delivery Promotions
Many grocery store chains now offer delivery services, which can be a huge help, particularly if you have limited access to grocery stores or are short on time. While grocery delivery isn’t typically free, loyalty programs and promotions can significantly reduce or eliminate delivery fees. For example, Kroger has been known to run promotions offering substantial discounts on delivery orders, sometimes completely offsetting the delivery fee. Keep an eye on your local grocery stores’ websites and apps for such deals.
Mastering Delivery Apps for Free Subscriptions and Deals
Delivery apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and GrubHub are often the quickest way to get food delivered. While standard delivery fees apply, premium subscription services like DashPass, Uber One, and Grubhub+ offer “free” delivery (you still pay a subscription fee, but delivery charges are waived). If you play it strategically, you can often access these premium subscriptions without direct cost by leveraging credit card perks and other bundled subscriptions. Delivery apps also frequently offer promotions for first-time users and promo codes for existing users, providing opportunities for discounted or free delivery.
Pro Tip: Delivery app promotions are dynamic and can change frequently, often lasting only a few days or even hours. Regularly checking the apps for available deals is the best way to catch these limited-time offers and secure cheap food delivery near you.
These apps are also invaluable when traveling, helping you discover popular local restaurants or filter options based on dietary needs like gluten-free or halal, or if you’re simply craving a specific cuisine like Thai or Indian food.
Unlocking Free Premium Delivery Subscriptions
You might already be eligible for free premium subscriptions to major food delivery services through credit cards or existing memberships:
- Chase Credit Cards: Certain Chase Sapphire credit cards offer a complimentary DashPass subscription. This unlocks free delivery (and often reduced service fees) from a wide array of restaurants, including Applebee’s, Baskin-Robbins, California Pizza Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, Cinnabon, El Pollo Loco, Pepe’s Pizza, Red Lobster, Ruby Tuesday, Subway, and Wingstop.
- Capital One Credit Cards: Specific Capital One cards like Savor, SavorOne, SavorOne Rewards for Students, and Quicksilver Rewards for Students provide statement credits for Uber One memberships and often offer bonus cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases. Uber One includes free delivery from restaurants like Blaze Pizza, Chili’s, Church’s Chicken, IHOP, Krystal, P.F. Chang’s, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Whataburger, and White Castle.
- Amazon Prime: Amazon Prime subscribers are entitled to a free GrubHub+ membership. This membership grants free delivery from restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings, Burger King, Firehouse Subs, Jamba Juice, Original Pancake House, Shake Shack, and Sonic. You typically need to activate this benefit through your Amazon Prime account, so it’s worth checking to see if you’re already eligible. GrubHub+ also frequently offers members a monthly free takeout entree, which can more than offset the subscription cost, especially if your GrubHub+ membership is free through Amazon Prime.
Even if you don’t qualify for a free subscription, a premium delivery subscription usually costs around $10 per month but often includes enough monthly discount offers to recoup the cost through savings.
Pro Tip: While food prices can be slightly higher on delivery apps, premium subscribers often receive exclusive deals several times a month, such as free pickup entrees or significant discounts like 40% off delivery orders. If your subscription is free through a credit card or other service, these discounts are pure savings.
Understanding Potential Pricing Differences
It’s important to be aware that “free” food delivery can sometimes come with hidden costs. Delivery apps often charge restaurants higher commissions, and to compensate, some restaurants may increase menu prices on these platforms. Ordering directly from a restaurant, even if it involves a delivery fee, can sometimes be less expensive overall. Always compare prices and factor in any potential service fees or inflated menu prices when evaluating the cheapest food delivery option.
The Bottom Line: Affordable Food Delivery is Within Reach
Getting cheap food delivery near you is definitely achievable with the right strategies. From taking advantage of restaurant app deals and free meal kit offers to leveraging delivery app subscriptions and promotions, numerous avenues exist to enjoy delivered meals without overspending. By being informed and proactive in seeking out deals, you can make food delivery a budget-friendly option, especially when time and money are tight.
From restaurant-specific delivery deals to leveraging government assistance programs like Meals on Wheels (for eligible individuals), the best approach depends on your individual circumstances and financial situation. Explore these options and start saving on your next meal delivery!
