Let’s be real – food delivery is super convenient, but those fees can add up fast. If you’re tired of spending more on delivery than the actual meal, you’re not alone. A lot of people are looking for cheaper ways to get their favorite takeout without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll break down which food delivery app gives you the best bang for your buck in the US, and what to watch out for when comparing your options.
1. Too Good To Go
Too Good To Go is a food-saving app that helps reduce food waste by connecting users with local businesses offering unsold food at the end of the day. Instead of paying full price, users purchase a “Surprise Bag” filled with items the store didn’t sell, usually at a significantly lower cost. While the contents are not always predictable, the app is designed to give users access to affordable meals while helping businesses cut down on waste.
It’s available in many cities across the US and is widely used by bakeries, cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores. Users simply search for nearby offers, reserve a bag through the app, and pick it up during a set time window. It’s not a traditional delivery app, as it requires users to pick up their orders in person, but it offers a cost-effective way to get food for less.
Key Highlights:
- Offers discounted food from local businesses
- Users purchase “Surprise Bags” of unsold items
- Focuses on reducing food waste
- Requires in-person pickup
Who it’s best for:
- People looking for affordable meals
- Users interested in food sustainability
- Anyone open to trying different foods at lower prices
2. DoorDash
DoorDash is a widely used food delivery apps in the United States. It connects users with local restaurants and offers delivery for everything from fast food to fine dining. The app is available in most cities and suburbs, making it a convenient option for many. Delivery fees and service charges vary, but a subscription service called DashPass is available for users looking to reduce costs on frequent orders.
In addition to restaurant meals, DoorDash also offers delivery from convenience stores and grocery outlets in some areas. The app is user-friendly, and customers can track orders in real-time. While pricing can fluctuate depending on distance and demand, it’s a commonly chosen app for people who want a wide range of options delivered to their door.
Key Highlights:
- Offers food delivery from a wide range of restaurants
- Available in most parts of the US
- Includes DashPass subscription to reduce fees
- Real-time order tracking
Who it’s best for:
- Regular takeout users looking for variety
- People who prefer delivery over pickup
- Users interested in reducing delivery fees with a subscription
3. Uber Eats
Uber Eats is a food delivery service that partners with restaurants across the country. It allows users to browse local options, place an order, and have it delivered to their home or workplace. The app is available in most major cities and towns, and delivery times and fees vary depending on location, time of day, and order size.
The platform also offers a subscription option, Uber One, which helps lower delivery and service fees on eligible orders. Users can filter search results by price, delivery time, or dietary preferences. The app’s wide availability and integration with the Uber platform make it a common choice for users already familiar with ride-sharing services.
Key Highlights:
- Connects users with nearby restaurants
- Offers delivery to homes or workplaces
- Subscription option for lower fees
- Search filters for price and food preferences
Who it’s best for:
- People who already use Uber services
- Users looking for delivery from both chains and local spots
- Anyone seeking flexible delivery times
4. ChowNow
ChowNow works a bit differently from most food delivery apps. Instead of charging high fees to customers or restaurants, it focuses on letting people place orders directly with local restaurants. In many cases, this results in lower overall costs and better menu prices. Some restaurants handle their own delivery, while others offer pickup only, depending on location and staffing.
The app is available in select cities and continues to expand its reach. Users can browse local menus, place orders, and pay within the app. Because it’s designed to support independent restaurants, it may not include as many national chains as other apps. Still, it gives people a way to support local spots while avoiding inflated fees.
Key Highlights:
- Direct ordering from local restaurants
- Lower service fees compared to larger platforms
- Some restaurants offer delivery, others only pickup
- Focused on supporting independent businesses
Who it’s best for:
- Users who prefer supporting local restaurants
- People looking for lower-cost ordering options
- Those open to pickup or limited delivery availability
5.Caviar
Caviar is a food delivery app that partners with a curated list of restaurants. It’s owned by DoorDash but operates as a separate brand in some areas. The app tends to focus on higher-end or niche restaurants that may not be available on other platforms. While this can sometimes result in higher menu prices, the app offers a slightly different selection for users looking for specific meals.
Caviar includes standard delivery features like order tracking, scheduling, and tipping, along with the ability to filter restaurants by cuisine or price range. It’s available in select cities, and availability of restaurants varies by region. For users who want a different mix of food options or are looking for something a little different than typical fast food delivery, Caviar is a solid alternative.
Key Highlights:
- Offers a curated selection of restaurants
- Features order tracking and scheduling
- Filters available for cuisine and price
- Operates separately but is owned by DoorDash
Who it’s best for:
- People looking for different or niche restaurant options
- Users in cities where Caviar is actively available
- Those already familiar with DoorDash but seeking new choices
6. Delivery.com
Delivery.com offers more than just restaurant meals. In addition to food delivery, users can order alcohol, groceries, and even laundry services, depending on their location. The platform works with local businesses and presents everything in one app, allowing users to place multiple types of orders from nearby providers. Delivery fees and service charges vary based on the business and order type.
The app is available in many U.S. cities, mostly in urban areas. Unlike some larger delivery services, Delivery.com gives users access to a wider range of services beyond takeout. While restaurant options can be more limited in smaller towns, it’s still a practical option for people looking to get everyday essentials delivered without using multiple apps.
Key Highlights:
- Offers delivery from restaurants, liquor stores, and grocers
- Includes laundry and dry cleaning in select areas
- Works with local businesses across categories
- Available in many urban regions in the U.S.
Who it’s best for:
- Users looking for more than just food delivery
- People in urban areas with access to a variety of services
- Those who prefer using one app for multiple needs
7. EatStreet
EatStreet focuses on connecting users with local restaurants, especially in college towns and smaller cities. It offers both delivery and pickup options, and restaurants listed may not appear on larger national apps. The app’s coverage is strongest in the Midwest and on college campuses, where it partners directly with local favorites.
Fees vary depending on the restaurant, and there are often promo codes and discounts available. The app itself is easy to navigate, and users can track orders, schedule ahead, or reorder past favorites. While it may not be as well-known as other services, EatStreet gives users access to smaller, local spots that may be overlooked on bigger platforms.
Key Highlights:
- Strong presence in college towns and small cities
- Direct partnerships with local restaurants
- Offers both delivery and pickup
- Often features regional promotions and deals
Who it’s best for:
- College students and campus communities
- People in smaller cities with fewer big-brand delivery options
- Users interested in supporting local restaurants
8. Gopuff
Gopuff is designed for fast delivery of convenience items like snacks, drinks, household goods, and basic groceries. Instead of picking up items from stores, Gopuff uses its own network of local warehouses, which helps keep delivery fast and predictable. Orders are placed through the app, with a flat delivery fee applied to each order, though the Fam membership eliminates delivery fees on orders over a certain amount.
Unlike traditional food delivery apps, Gopuff doesn’t focus on restaurant meals. It’s more about quick access to everyday items, often within 30 minutes. This can be especially useful for late-night cravings or when you’re out of essentials. It’s available in many U.S. cities and continues expanding to new areas.
Key Highlights:
- Delivers snacks, drinks, and everyday items
- Uses its own local warehouses for faster service
- Flat delivery fee per order
- Operates in many urban and suburban areas
Who it’s best for:
- People who want late-night or fast delivery of essentials
- Users looking for alternatives to grocery store runs
- Those not focused on restaurant food
9. Instacart
Instacart connects users with local grocery stores and allows them to order food and household products for same-day delivery. Shoppers pick and pack the orders, and deliveries are made within a set timeframe. The app supports a wide range of grocery chains and local markets, depending on location.
Delivery and service fees vary, but Instacart also offers a membership that reduces costs for frequent users. It’s commonly used for larger grocery hauls and allows users to choose substitutes or message the shopper in real time. The app offers convenience for those who prefer not to shop in person and is widely available across the U.S.
Key Highlights:
- Partners with local and national grocery stores
- Real-time chat with personal shoppers
- Option to schedule same-day delivery
- Membership available for reduced fees
Who it’s best for:
- Users who want groceries delivered quickly
- People managing weekly meal prep or shopping lists
- Anyone who prefers not to visit the store in person
10. HungryPanda
HungryPanda is a delivery app that specializes in Asian cuisine. It focuses on serving communities with access to authentic dishes from local Asian restaurants, including Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and more. The app’s interface is available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a wider group of users.
The platform operates in several major U.S. cities, with its strongest presence in areas with larger Asian populations. Delivery fees and service charges are generally in line with standard rates, but the focus on a specific type of cuisine sets it apart from broader delivery apps. It also supports local businesses that might not be listed elsewhere.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in Asian food delivery
- Multilingual interface options
- Available in major U.S. cities
- Works with smaller local restaurants
Who it’s best for:
- Users looking for authentic Asian cuisine
- People in cities with a wide range of Asian restaurants
- Those who prefer a focused delivery app experience
11. Local by Toast
Local by Toast is a food ordering app that connects customers directly with local restaurants. Developed by Toast, a restaurant management platform, the app is designed to simplify pickup and delivery while giving restaurants more control over the ordering process. Unlike national delivery services, Local by Toast focuses on supporting independent eateries without layering on heavy third-party fees.
Users can browse menus, place orders, and pay directly through the app. Delivery availability depends on the restaurant – some handle their own deliveries, while others offer pickup only. The app is most commonly used in cities where Toast is already popular with local restaurants, making it a practical option for people who want to support nearby spots without paying inflated fees.
Key Highlights:
- Direct ordering through participating local restaurants
- Lower service costs compared to larger platforms
- Offers both pickup and delivery, based on location
- Built to support independently owned restaurants
Who it’s best for:
- People who prefer ordering directly from local businesses
- Users looking for simple, low-fee ordering
- Customers in areas where Toast is widely used
12. Ritual
Ritual is a food ordering app centered around pickup rather than delivery. It allows users to order ahead from nearby restaurants and skip the line when picking up their meals. The app includes features like group ordering and loyalty rewards, making it appealing to people working in office settings or looking to grab lunch without the wait.
It’s available in select cities and tends to focus on areas with a strong concentration of restaurants. Since there are no delivery drivers involved, users avoid extra delivery fees entirely. Ritual’s pickup model makes it a cost-effective option for those who prefer to grab their food on the go while still ordering in advance.
Key Highlights:
- Focuses on order-ahead and pickup, not delivery
- No delivery fees or added service charges
- Group ordering and reward options included
- Available in select U.S. cities
Who it’s best for:
- Office workers and busy professionals
- People who want to avoid delivery fees
- Users in cities with strong restaurant density
13. Snackpass
Snackpass is a pickup-only food app that emphasizes social features and discounts. Users can order ahead from local restaurants and pick up their food without waiting in line. It also includes a points-based rewards system and the option to send friends food credits, which makes the app more interactive than most.
It’s especially popular among college students and younger users, with strong adoption on campuses and in nearby neighborhoods. Without delivery, costs stay lower, and the app often features exclusive deals from participating restaurants. While it doesn’t offer delivery, its streamlined experience and rewards system make it appealing for frequent takeout.
Key Highlights:
- Pickup-only ordering from local restaurants
- Social features and gifting options
- Points-based rewards system
- Strong presence in college areas
Who it’s best for:
- Students and younger users
- People who regularly order takeout
- Anyone looking to avoid delivery fees
14. BeyondMenu
BeyondMenu lets users place orders from local restaurants for pickup or delivery, depending on availability. The app is more straightforward than some larger platforms, offering fewer frills but focusing on function. It supports online payment or pay-at-the-door options and allows users to browse by cuisine, price, or location.
It’s available in many U.S. cities and towns, often listing smaller or independently owned restaurants that don’t always appear on larger apps. Because the app works directly with these businesses, delivery fees and service charges can be lower. It’s a practical choice for users looking for simplicity and local options.
Key Highlights:
- Order for delivery or pickup from local restaurants
- Works directly with many small businesses
- Basic interface with easy navigation
- Offers multiple payment methods
Who it’s best for:
- Users who prefer simple, no-frills ordering
- People looking to support small restaurants
- Anyone wanting lower-cost delivery options
15. GoLocal
GoLocal is Walmart’s same-day delivery service, designed to get items like groceries, household products, and other essentials to customers quickly. While it’s not a traditional food delivery app for restaurant meals, it helps people restock their kitchens affordably without making a store trip. The app works with local Walmart stores and select retail partners, offering delivery through third-party drivers.
Fees depend on order size and location, but overall costs are typically lower than restaurant delivery apps. GoLocal focuses on convenience and speed, especially for repeat purchases and pantry staples. It’s a straightforward option for users who prioritize essentials over takeout.
Key Highlights:
- Same-day delivery from Walmart and partners
- Focuses on groceries and household items
- Costs vary based on location and order type
- Not intended for restaurant meal delivery
Who it’s best for:
- People looking for fast delivery of groceries and essentials
- Users trying to reduce food delivery spending
- Anyone who regularly shops at Walmart
16. EatOkra
EatOkra is both a directory and a food ordering app that highlights Black-owned restaurants and food businesses. Users can search by location, cuisine, or business type, making it easy to discover new spots and support local communities. While the main focus is on connecting people to these restaurants, some locations offer ordering and delivery directly through the app.
EatOkra is available in several U.S. cities and continues to expand. The platform emphasizes cultural connection, visibility, and community support more than fast delivery. For people who want to support small, independent businesses while still enjoying takeout, it offers a meaningful and practical way to do so.
Key Highlights:
- Features Black-owned restaurants across the U.S.
- Offers directory-style browsing with some delivery options
- Focuses on community support and visibility
- Available in select urban areas
Who it’s best for:
- Users who want to support Black-owned food businesses
- People interested in discovering new local spots
- Customers in cities where EatOkra has active listings
17. Freshly
Freshly is a meal subscription service that delivers fully prepared meals to your doorstep. Rather than ordering one meal at a time, users subscribe to weekly plans and receive a set number of meals based on their selection. Meals arrive chilled and ready to heat, offering a middle ground between takeout and cooking from scratch.
Since delivery is handled in bulk once a week, there are no per-meal delivery fees like with traditional food delivery apps. This can make it more affordable for people who want quick meals without paying for each delivery. Freshly focuses on convenience and routine rather than on-demand ordering.
Key Highlights:
- Subscription-based meal delivery
- Delivers multiple meals at once, once per week
- No per-order delivery fees
- Ready-to-eat meals that require no prep
Who it’s best for:
- People who want pre-made meals with no cooking
- Users looking to cut down on weekly takeout
- Customers who prefer predictable, scheduled deliveries
Conclusion
Finding the right food delivery app isn’t just about what’s on the menu – it’s also about how much you’re spending to get that meal to your door. Between delivery fees, service charges, and tipping, costs can add up fast if you’re not paying attention. But with so many different apps out there, there’s almost always a cheaper way to get what you’re craving.
Some apps help you save by offering surprise meal deals or discounted leftovers. Others focus on pickup instead of delivery to cut out fees completely. There are also services that help you plan meals and avoid the urge to order out in the first place. A few platforms even let you support local spots directly without the extra charges that come with big-name apps.
At the end of the day, small changes like switching apps or planning meals ahead can lead to big savings over time. It’s all about being smart with your choices while still enjoying the food you love.