Food delivery services have revolutionized how we access our favorite meals. With just a few taps on our smartphones, we can enjoy pizza, sushi, or dishes from our beloved local restaurants without leaving our homes. This convenience became even more crucial during the pandemic, and the popularity of these services shows no signs of slowing down. Let’s explore some of the best food delivery services available, focusing on what each one offers to help you decide which is the best fit for your needs.
The Top Food Delivery Services to Try
1. Grubhub: The Extensive Reach Option
Grubhub (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Grubhub stands out as a top contender in the food delivery landscape due to its extensive reach and diverse selection of restaurants.
- Availability: Operates in 4,000 U.S. cities and London, UK.
- Fees: Vary by restaurant.
- Minimum Order: Varies by restaurant for delivery.
- Subscription Option: GrubHub+ for $9.99 a month.
Why Choose Grubhub?
- Extensive Reach: Grubhub boasts an impressive network of restaurants, including both local eateries and national chains, ensuring a wide variety of options.
- Versatile Ordering: Whether you’re craving a quick bite from a fast-food joint or a gourmet meal from a fine-dining establishment, Grubhub has you covered.
- Multiple Payment Methods: Grubhub supports various payment methods, offering flexibility and convenience for users.
- No-Contact Delivery: Instruction box available to specify delivery preferences.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Restaurant-Specific Fees: Some restaurants may impose their own delivery fees, potentially increasing the overall cost.
2. DoorDash: Recommendations and Fast Delivery
DoorDash (Image credit: ERIC BARADAT/AFP via Getty Images)
DoorDash is known for its user-friendly interface, helpful recommendations, and efficient delivery service.
- Availability: Serves 4,000 cities in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
- Fees: Vary by restaurant.
- Minimum Order: None.
- Subscription Option: DashPass for $9.99 a month.
Why Choose DoorDash?
- Recommendation Engine: The “Yum Score” feature rates food quality and restaurant efficiency, helping you discover new favorites.
- Wide Variety: DoorDash offers a diverse selection of cuisines, from sushi to fast food, catering to various tastes.
- Convenient Features: Includes quick reordering, delivery tracking, and scheduled deliveries.
- Alcohol Delivery: In select locations, DoorDash allows you to order alcohol and mixers from local stores.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Reach: While extensive, DoorDash’s reach isn’t as broad as Grubhub’s.
- Variable Delivery Fees: Delivery fees can vary depending on the restaurant and distance.
3. Seamless: Grubhub’s Mirror Image
Seamless (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Seamless operates under the Grubhub umbrella and offers a similar range of features and benefits.
- Availability: 4,000 U.S. cities and London, UK.
- Fees: Varies by restaurant.
- Minimum Order: Varies by restaurant for delivery.
- Subscription Option: Seamless+ for $9.99 a month.
Why Choose Seamless?
- Extensive Reach: Like Grubhub, Seamless offers a broad network of restaurants and cuisines.
- Versatile Ordering: You can order for delivery or pickup, depending on your preference.
- User-Friendly App: The Seamless app makes it easy to browse, order, and track your food.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Restaurant-Specific Fees: As with Grubhub, individual restaurants may impose their own delivery fees.
4. Uber Eats: Best for Uber Users
Uber Eats (Image credit: Uber Eats)
Uber Eats seamlessly integrates with the Uber app, making it a convenient option for those already familiar with the platform.
- Availability: 500-plus cities in 24 countries.
- Fees: 15% of order subtotal.
- Minimum Order: $2 to $3 fee for orders less than $10 to $15.
- Subscription Option: Eats Pass for $9.99 a month.
Why Choose Uber Eats?
- Integration with Uber: If you already use Uber, Uber Eats offers a seamless and familiar experience.
- Real-Time Tracking: You can track your order in real-time, just like booking an Uber ride.
- Global Reach: Uber Eats operates in numerous cities worldwide, making it a reliable option for travelers.
- Contact-Free Delivery: Option to leave delivery instructions for drivers.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Service Fee: Uber Eats charges a 15% service fee on all orders.
5. Instacart: For Grocery Delivery
Instacart (Image credit: Instacart)
Instacart specializes in delivering groceries and household goods, making it ideal when you need more than just a restaurant meal.
- Availability: 5,500 cities in the U.S. and Canada.
- Fees: Starting at $3.99 with a minimum order of $10.
- Minimum Order: $10.
- Subscription Option: Instacart Express for $9.99 a month.
Why Choose Instacart?
- Grocery Delivery: Instacart delivers groceries, household goods, and alcohol from a wide range of retailers.
- Convenient for Meal Prep: If you prefer cooking at home, Instacart makes it easy to get the ingredients you need.
- Partnerships: Boasts partnerships with more than 20,000 retailers across North America.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Service Fees: Service fees can add up, especially if you don’t have a membership.
- Limited Time Slots: It can be challenging to secure delivery time slots during peak hours.
6. Caviar: Focus on Local Restaurants
Caviar (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Caviar, owned by DoorDash, emphasizes local restaurants and a higher-end dining experience.
- Availability: 28 U.S. cities and regions.
- Fees: $1.99 to $8.99.
- Minimum Order: Varies by restaurant for delivery.
- Subscription Option: None.
Why Choose Caviar?
- Local Focus: Caviar specializes in partnering with local restaurants, offering a unique selection of culinary experiences.
- Real-Time Tracking: You can track your delivery in real-time via GPS.
- Exclusive Deals: Caviar offers in-app exclusive deals to its users.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Reach: Caviar’s availability is limited to select cities and regions.
7. Postmates: 24/7 Delivery
Postmates (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Postmates, now owned by Uber, stands out for its 24/7 delivery service and wide range of offerings.
- Availability: 4,200 U.S. cities.
- Fees: Varies by restaurant and subject to surge pricing.
- Minimum Order: Varies by restaurant for delivery, $1.99 on small cart orders.
- Subscription Option: Postmates Unlimited for $9.99 a month.
Why Choose Postmates?
- 24/7 Availability: Postmates offers round-the-clock delivery, depending on restaurant hours.
- Extensive Reach: Postmates operates in numerous cities across the U.S.
- Diverse Deliveries: You can order food, groceries, clothing, and even cellphone chargers.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Surge Pricing: Prices can increase during peak hours due to surge pricing.
8. ChowNow: Local Eats and Pickups
(Image credit: ChowNow)
ChowNow focuses on supporting local restaurants by facilitating pickup orders, though delivery is available in some locations.
- Availability: 18 U.S. cities and regions.
- Fees: Varies by restaurant.
- Minimum Order: Varies by restaurant for delivery.
- Subscription Option: None.
Why Choose ChowNow?
- Local Focus: ChowNow partners exclusively with local restaurants, supporting small businesses.
- Commission-Free Ordering: ChowNow promises commission-free ordering, ensuring transparent pricing.
- No Hidden Fees: This app prides itself on no extra or unexplained fees.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Delivery: Delivery is only available in select cities.
9. Delivery.com: All-Purpose Delivery
Delivery.com (Image credit: Delivery.com)
Delivery.com offers a wide range of services, including food, laundry, and grocery delivery.
- Availability: 100-plus U.S. cities.
- Fees: Varies by location.
- Minimum Order: Varies by location for delivery.
- Subscription Option: Delivery Points reward program for free.
Why Choose Delivery.com?
- All-Purpose Delivery: In addition to food, Delivery.com can deliver laundry, groceries, and alcohol.
- Group Ordering: A group ordering feature lets you split orders with roommates or neighbors.
- One-Stop Source: Think of this service for all your food needs.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Restaurant-Specific Fees: Some restaurants may charge their own delivery fees.
10. GoPuff: Convenience Store Delivery
goPuff (Image credit: GoPuff)
GoPuff offers a unique approach, delivering snacks, ice cream, and other convenience store items.
- Availability: 170-plus areas.
- Fees: $1.95 per delivery.
- Minimum Order: None.
- Subscription Option: Fam membership for $5.95 a month.
Why Choose GoPuff?
- Convenience Store Items: GoPuff delivers snacks, drinks, over-the-counter medicine, and cleaning supplies.
- Flat Delivery Fee: A flat delivery fee of $1.95 simplifies pricing.
- No-Contact Delivery: Ensures your safety with no-contact delivery.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Meal Options: GoPuff’s food deliveries lean more toward snacks than full meals.
How to Choose the Best Food Delivery Service
When selecting a food delivery service, consider the following factors:
- Reach: Ensure the service operates in your area and partners with restaurants you enjoy.
- Fees: Compare delivery fees, service fees, and subscription options to find the most cost-effective choice.
- Selection: Look for a service that offers a diverse range of cuisines and restaurants to suit your tastes.
- Features: Consider features like real-time tracking, recommendation engines, and scheduled deliveries to enhance your experience.
Ultimately, the best food delivery service depends on your individual needs and preferences. By considering the factors outlined above and exploring the options discussed, you can find the perfect app to satisfy your cravings.
