Quick Summary:
In today’s fast-paced world, food delivery apps have revolutionized the way we dine by bringing a wide variety of cuisines right to our doorsteps. This blog post explores the top 10 food delivery apps in the USA, examining their features, coverage, pricing, and user experience. Whether you’re looking for the broadest restaurant selections, the fastest delivery times, or specialty options like grocery or gourmet meals, you’ll find the right fit in this list. We’ll also address common questions and provide tips to maximize your savings. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which platform best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Index
Introduction
In recent years, food delivery apps have transformed the way Americans dine, offering unprecedented convenience, variety, and speed. No longer confined to phone calls or takeout counter visits, consumers can now browse menus, compare prices, and track orders in real time, all from the palm of their hand. As technology and logistics networks have advanced, these platforms have expanded beyond major metropolitan areas into suburbs and rural communities, ensuring that virtually anyone can enjoy restaurant-quality meals without leaving home.
Today’s top food delivery services not only partner with national chains but also champion local eateries, giving smaller restaurants access to a broader customer base. Many apps now include features such as group ordering, subscription-based fee waivers, and curated “top picks” to simplify decision-making. Whether you’re craving a late-night snack, planning a family dinner, or ordering groceries alongside your meal, there’s a platform optimized for your needs.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 food delivery apps in the USA, comparing their coverage, pricing, membership perks, and unique features. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each service, you can choose the app that best aligns with your lifestyle and budget whether you prioritize speed, restaurant selection, or cost savings. Let’s dive in and see how these platforms are reshaping the dining experience across the nation.
DoorDash
Overview
Founded in 2013, DoorDash has quickly become the market leader in the USA, accounting for nearly half of all delivery orders nationwide. Known for its extensive network of local restaurants and chain partners, DoorDash operates in over 4,000 cities. Customers appreciate DoorDash for its simple interface, fast deliveries, and customer loyalty programs such as DashPass, which waives delivery fees for a monthly subscription.
Key Features
- Wide restaurant selection (local and national chains)
- DashPass membership for free delivery on eligible orders
- Real-time order tracking with ETA updates
- “Group Order” feature for shared billing in teams or families
Coverage and Availability
DoorDash is available in 50 states, covering urban centers, suburbs, and many rural areas. Peak hours may vary by region, but the platform maintains strong restaurant partnerships to minimize delivery delays.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees typically range from $1.99 to $5.99, depending on distance and restaurant. Service fees (10–15% of the order subtotal) apply to all orders. DashPass membership is $9.99/month and offers unlimited free delivery and reduced service fees on eligible orders over $12.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Extensive coverage, many promotions, group ordering, and reliable tracking.
- Cons: Service fees can be high during peak times; some restaurants add extra markups.
User Tips
- Sign up for DashPass if you order frequently, savings offset subscription cost quickly.
- Order during off-peak hours to avoid surge pricing on service fees.
- Check “DoorDash Deals” for discounted menu items and special promotions.
Uber Eats
Overview
Launched in 2014 as an offshoot of the ride-hailing giant Uber, Uber Eats leverages its established logistics infrastructure to deliver meals swiftly and efficiently. Available in over 6,000 cities worldwide, Uber Eats has a significant presence in major metropolitan areas of the USA. Its integration with the Uber app allows users to switch seamlessly between ride-sharing and food delivery services.
Key Features
- In-app Uber driver integration for faster pickups
- “Pickup” option to skip delivery fees by collecting orders yourself
- “Eats Pass” subscription (monthly fee) offering $0 delivery fees on orders over $15
- Curated “Top Picks” and “Not Too Far” sections for quick ordering
Coverage and Availability
Uber Eats operates in nearly every major city in the USA. Service density is highest in urban centers such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston. In some smaller markets, selection may be limited to national chains or a handful of local eateries.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees range from $0.99 to $5.99, varying by distance and restaurant. A service fee (around 15%) is added to each order. Eats Pass costs $9.99/month and includes free delivery on orders over $15 and reduced service fees.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Fast delivery times, reliable tracking, and broad selection in metropolitan areas.
- Cons: Higher fees during peak demand; limited options in smaller markets.
User Tips
- Use the “Pickup” feature if you’re close to the restaurant to avoid delivery fees altogether.
- Look for “Free Delivery” promotions, especially during new restaurant launches.
- Combine multiple items into one order to qualify for Eats Pass free delivery.
Grubhub
Overview
Grubhub, founded in 2004, is one of the pioneers in online food ordering and delivery. With its acquisition of Seamless in 2013, Grubhub expanded its user base considerably. Operating in over 3,200 U.S. cities, Grubhub focuses on connecting customers with local restaurants and independent eateries. Their loyalty program, Grubhub+, provides fee savings to repeat customers.
Key Features
- “Grubhub+” subscription for free delivery, $0 pickup fees, and exclusive perks
- Vast network of independent restaurants not available on other platforms
- “Perks” tab for limited-time discounts on select menu items
- Multi-order tracking and live ETA updates per step of the delivery
Coverage and Availability
Grubhub is strongest in the Northeast and major metropolitan areas such as New York City, Boston, and Chicago. While coverage extends to smaller cities, the number of restaurant partners can be lower compared to DoorDash or Uber Eats.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees generally range from $0.99 to $7.99, depending on restaurant partner and order size. Service fees can be up to 15% of the subtotal. Grubhub+ costs $9.99/month or $99.99/year and includes free delivery on orders over $12 and waived pickup fees.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Strong network of unique, independent restaurants; robust loyalty program; Perks discounts.
- Cons: Higher delivery fees in some regions; fewer chain restaurants compared to competitors.
User Tips
- Sign up for Grubhub+ if you order more than twice a month from Grubhub to save on fees.
- Browse the “Perks” tab daily for rotating discounts on popular local dishes.
- Check if your favorite independent spots are exclusive to Grubhub, offering unique options you can’t find elsewhere.
Postmates
Overview
Postmates, founded in 2011 and acquired by Uber in 2020, initially carved a niche by delivering not only restaurant meals but also groceries, alcohol, and convenience store items. While it shares backend infrastructure with Uber Eats, it still operates under its own brand in many cities. Postmates’ “Anything, Anytime, Anywhere” tagline reflects its broader, non-restaurant-specific service.
Key Features
- “Unlimited” membership (Postmates Unlimited) for free delivery on eligible orders
- Delivery from non-restaurant retailers like Costco, 7-Eleven, and liquor stores
- “Drop-off” instructions for secure item placement (contactless delivery)
- In-app tipping options and “pick-up” feature for select outlets
Coverage and Availability
Postmates covers over 3,500 U.S. cities. It excels in metropolitan hubs such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City. In smaller markets, the selection can be limited to major retail chains and a handful of local restaurants.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees typically range from $1.99 to $5.99, based on distance and retailer. A service fee of around 9% is applied. Postmates Unlimited is $9.99/month or $99/year, offering free delivery on orders over $12 and reduced service fees.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Broader selection beyond restaurants, great for groceries and convenience items; reliable urban coverage.
- Cons: Integration with Uber Eats can cause confusion over which app to use; fewer independent restaurants than Grubhub or DoorDash.
User Tips
- Use Postmates when you need quick grocery or liquor runs alongside your meal orders.
- Take advantage of “Group Orders” to split costs for larger item deliveries.
- Check “Drop-off preferences” to ensure contactless and secure placement during busy hours.
Seamless
Overview
Seamless, relaunched under the Grubhub umbrella, was originally launched in 1999 as one of the first online ordering services in New York City. While it shares the same infrastructure as Grubhub, Seamless often features exclusive restaurant partnerships in NYC and neighboring boroughs. It remains a go-to platform for Manhattan residents seeking fast delivery from local favorites.
Key Features
- “Perks” program with rotating discounts on NYC hotspots
- “Order Ahead” feature for scheduled deliveries during peak lunch or dinner hours
- Shared wallet option for group billing in office environments
Coverage and Availability
Seamless primarily serves the New York metropolitan area (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island), with limited availability in other major East Coast cities. Its strength lies in exclusive tie-ups with iconic NYC eateries.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees range from $0.99 to $7.99, varying by drop-off location and restaurant. Service fees run around 13% of the order. Seamless for Work (corporate accounts) provides consolidated billing and priority support for large teams.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Excellent coverage in NYC, exclusive restaurant options, robust corporate ordering tools.
- Cons: Not available in most U.S. cities; pricing can be high during peak lunch rushes.
User Tips
- Use “Order Ahead” to skip long wait times during lunchtime in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan.
- Corporate users should explore Seamless for Work for easier expense management and employee meal budgets.
- Stay updated on “Perks” to snag discounts on popular local deli sandwiches and pizza slices.
Instacart
Overview
Instacart was founded in 2012 and quickly dominated the grocery delivery market by partnering with major supermarket chains like Costco, Kroger, Safeway, and Whole Foods. While primarily known for grocery delivery, Instacart has expanded into “Instacart Ready” retail partners, delivering from convenience stores and specialty shops. In major metropolitan areas, delivery windows can be as fast as one hour.
Key Features
- “Express” membership for free delivery on orders over $35
- Wide selection of grocery chains and local specialty stores
- “Shoppers” pick and pack items, offering substitutions if an item is out of stock
- Real-time chat with shoppers to clarify item preferences
Coverage and Availability
Instacart serves over 5,500 cities in the USA, including urban, suburban, and many rural regions. Its coverage extends to most major grocery retailers in those areas, making it a one-stop shop for weekly household needs.
Pricing and Fees
Instacart charges a delivery fee that varies by order and location (usually between $3.99 and $7.99). A service fee of about 5% is added. Instacart Express is $9.99/month or $99/year, offering free delivery on orders over $35 and reduced service fees.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Broad grocery selection, same-day delivery windows, real-time shopper communication.
- Cons: Fees can add up for small orders; premium membership only beneficial for heavy users.
User Tips
- Order in bulk to meet the $35 minimum and avoid delivery fees if you’re an Express member.
- Use “Favorites” to save frequently purchased items for quicker checkout.
- Communicate via in-app chat to request alternative brands when your preferred item is unavailable.
Favor
Overview
Favor Delivery, launched in 2013 and available in Texas cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, specializes in hyper-local delivery from restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience outlets. Known for its “Runners” (delivery couriers), Favor offers personalized service, where Runners can handle specialized requests like picking up a forgotten charger or dropping off flowers alongside your meal.
Key Features
- Personalized “Anything” delivery from local stores, restaurants, and pharmacies
- “Club Favor” subscription for free delivery on orders over $30
- Live GPS tracking of Runners and ETA updates
- “Schedule for Later” to plan orders up to 24 hours in advance
Coverage and Availability
Favor is exclusively available in Texas (major metro areas). Its focus on localized service means faster deliveries within city limits and a strong roster of local restaurant partners.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees range from $2.99 to $5.99. Service fees are around 5%. Club Favor costs $9.99/month or $99/year, offering free delivery on orders over $30 and priority scheduling during peak hours.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Highly personalized service, extensive local partnerships, and flexible ordering options.
- Cons: Only available in Texas; pricing can be high for small orders.
User Tips
- Schedule orders ahead to ensure timely delivery during busy weekends.
- Use Favor for quick errands alongside meal deliveries (e.g., pharmacy pick-ups).
- Tip Runners generously during peak times to incentivize faster service.
Caviar
Overview
Caviar, founded in 2012 and acquired by DoorDash in 2019, distinguishes itself by focusing on higher-end restaurants and gourmet eateries. It caters to foodies seeking premium options that aren’t always available on mainstream platforms. Caviar’s curation process ensures a refined selection of independent restaurants, bistros, and artisanal vendors.
Key Features
- “Chef Pick” recommendations highlighting local culinary gems
- “Past Orders” and “Favorites” to reorder quickly from premium partners
- In-app tipping with suggested amounts to support delivery partners
- Limited but specialized coverage in select urban areas
Coverage and Availability
Caviar is available in approximately 20 major U.S. cities, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Austin. The focus is on dense urban neighborhoods where demand for high-quality dining is strongest.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees range from $4.99 to $9.99, reflecting the premium nature of restaurant partners. Service fees can be as high as 15-20% of the order. Caviar does not currently offer a subscription model but occasionally runs promo codes for first-time users.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Curated selection of high-end and artisanal restaurants, exceptional packaging standards, and reliable delivery.
- Cons: Higher fees; limited availability outside major metro hubs.
User Tips
- Look for “Chef Pick” badges to discover trending dishes and menus.
- Use promo codes during off-peak hours to offset higher delivery fees.
- Review restaurant menus in advance to navigate fewer but more specialized options quickly.
Delivery.com
Overview
Delivery.com, established in 2004, offers delivery from restaurants, grocery stores, and local businesses. With a strong presence in the Northeast and select West Coast cities, Delivery.com also includes non-food services such as laundry and alcohol delivery. The platform integrates loyalty rewards (DPoints) redeemable for discounts on future orders.
Key Features
- “DPoints” loyalty system: earn points to offset future orders
- Multi-service options: food, groceries, alcohol, and laundry delivery
- “Order History” for quick reordering of favorites
- Built-in “Rewards” tab showcasing nearby deals and promotions
Coverage and Availability
Delivery.com serves over 30 U.S. cities, including New York, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Its footprint is smaller than DoorDash or Uber Eats, but it shines in neighborhoods where multi-service demand is high.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees start at $2.99 and can rise to $6.99, depending on distance and order size. Service fees are typically around 10%. DPoints are earned at a rate of 10 points per dollar spent and can be redeemed at a rate of 100 points = $1 off.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Versatile service offerings, strong loyalty program, and user-friendly interface.
- Cons: Smaller restaurant selection; coverage gaps in many regions.
User Tips
- Maximize DPoints by ordering in bulk or combining services (e.g., groceries + food) to reach reward thresholds faster.
- Check the “Rewards” tab weekly for rotating deals at local businesses.
- Schedule laundry and grocery deliveries during off-peak hours to reduce wait times.
EatStreet
Overview
Established in 2010, EatStreet focuses on mid-sized markets and college towns, offering a balance between national chains and local establishments. Its mission is to support independent restaurants in smaller cities that larger platforms often overlook. EatStreet’s “CampusConnect” program partners with universities to give students exclusive discounts and promotions.
Key Features
- “CampusConnect” discounts for students near partner universities
- “Promos” tab for rotating deals on participating restaurants
- “Gift Cards” available for purchase directly within the app
- “Order Ahead” feature to schedule deliveries up to 24 hours before
Coverage and Availability
EatStreet is available in over 200 U.S. markets, focusing on mid-sized cities like Madison, WI; Ann Arbor, MI; and Fayetteville, AR. While coverage in major metros is limited, it excels in communities underserved by larger aggregators.
Pricing and Fees
Delivery fees range from $1.99 to $5.99, depending on location and restaurant. Service fees average around 10%. No subscription model exists, but first-time users often receive promotional credits for reduced or free delivery.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Strong presence in smaller markets, exclusive student discounts, and local restaurant partnerships.
- Cons: Limited availability in large metros, fewer chain options, and occasional longer delivery times in rural areas.
User Tips
- Students should link their university email for CampusConnect discounts on each order.
- Monitor the “Promos” tab daily to catch limited-time deals from local favorites.
- Schedule “Order Ahead” during weekends when restaurants can be busier to secure desired delivery windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which food delivery app offers the widest restaurant selection?
DoorDash generally offers the broadest restaurant network in the United States, featuring thousands of chains and local eateries in over 4,000 cities. Uber Eats comes close in major metros, but DoorDash’s partnerships extend further into suburban and rural areas. If you prioritize variety, DoorDash is often your best bet.
2. Are subscription services like DashPass or Eats Pass worth it?
Subscription services such as DashPass ($9.99/month) and Eats Pass ($9.99/month) can be worthwhile if you place multiple orders per month, each above their respective minimums. For example, if you order food twice per month with delivery fees of $5 each, DashPass or Eats Pass subscribers effectively save $10 per month. Review your ordering habits and calculate whether the monthly fee offsets your typical fees.
3. How do delivery fees and service fees differ?
Delivery fees are flat or variable charges based on distance and restaurant partner. Service fees (usually 10–15% of your order) cover platform operation costs and are separate. Delivery fees go to the courier, whereas service fees go to the delivery platform. Some apps combine these fees under “order protection” or “operational costs,” so read your receipt carefully.
4. Can I use multiple apps to compare prices and fees?
Yes. Many users create accounts on two or three apps (e.g., DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub) to compare menu prices, delivery fees, and promotions. Restaurants often charge different markups on each platform, so cross-checking can save you money. Be aware of varying minimum order requirements and delivery windows, though price isn’t the only factor to consider.
5. What’s the fastest way to get my food delivered?
For the fastest delivery, use apps with high courier density in your area. In large urban centers, DoorDash and Uber Eats often complete orders within 30–45 minutes during non-peak hours. If you live in a smaller city, apps like EatStreet or Grubhub may take longer. Scheduling orders ahead of time and ordering during off-peak hours also reduces wait times.
6. Are there hidden fees I should watch out for?
Some apps charge additional fees labeled as “small order fees” if your subtotal doesn’t meet a minimum threshold (often $10–$15). Other hidden fees may include “rush-hour” fees during peak dining times. Always review your order summary before checkout to see any added fees. Subscribing to membership plans can sometimes waive these small order fees.
7. How do tipping policies vary across platforms?
Most platforms recommend tipping 15–20% of the pre-tax order total. Some apps automatically suggest tip percentages, while others allow you to enter a custom amount. DoorDash and Uber Eats apply a portion of your tip directly to the courier, and the rest goes to a centralized pool for all drivers during high-demand periods. Check each app’s tipping policy to ensure fair compensation for drivers.
8. Can I schedule an order for later delivery?
Yes. Many apps have an “Order Ahead” or “Schedule Delivery” feature. DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Seamless, and EatStreet allow you to choose a time slot up to 24 hours in advance. Scheduling during peak meal times (e.g., Friday evenings) is recommended to lock in your preferred delivery window and avoid long wait times.
9. What should I do if my order arrives late or is incorrect?
If your order arrives late or items are missing, most apps provide in-app support chat or phone support. Before contacting support, check the estimated delivery time and track your courier’s location in real time. If the issue persists, open a support ticket immediately some platforms offer partial or full refunds for missing items or excessive delays.
10. How do I choose between restaurant and grocery delivery?
If you need a quick meal, choose a restaurant delivery app like DoorDash or Uber Eats. For grocery or household essentials, Instacart or Delivery.com is more appropriate. Postmates offers both food and grocery delivery, but fees can be higher if you combine services. Assess your immediate needs, compare fees, and select the app that aligns with your shopping list.
At Digiteon, we recognize that a successful food delivery app hinges on more than just placing orders—it’s about creating a seamless experience for customers, restaurants, and delivery partners alike. As a leading food delivery app development company, we specialize in end-to-end food delivery app development services. Our process begins with comprehensive market analysis to identify gaps and opportunities. We collaborate closely with you to define key features such as real-time order tracking, dynamic menu management, customizable promo engines, and customer loyalty programs. By leveraging the latest technologies integrating AI-driven recommendation engines and deploying serverless functions for cost-efficient scaling we ensure your food app development project not only meets today’s standards but is also future-proofed for emerging trends.
Our expert designers craft intuitive user journeys that minimize friction at every step, from browsing menus to checkout. Meanwhile, our backend architects build robust, cloud-hosted infrastructure with automated load balancing, ensuring lightning-fast performance during peak hours. We integrate secure payment gateways, support multiple currencies, and implement advanced fraud detection measures to protect your business and users. For delivery partners, we develop a dedicated module with turn-by-turn GPS navigation, optimized route planning, and transparent earnings dashboards demonstrating our commitment to high-quality food delivery app development. We also provide clear estimates of food delivery app development cost upfront, so you know exactly what to expect at every stage of the project.
Beyond launch, Digiteon offers ongoing support and proactive monitoring to guarantee 99.9% uptime for your food delivery app. Our DevOps team sets up CI/CD pipelines for rapid feature releases and security patches, while our QA engineers conduct regular performance and usability testing across devices. We provide tailored marketing collateral app store screenshots, demo videos, and promotional banners to help you generate buzz and drive user acquisition. From initial concept to post-launch growth strategies, Digiteon is your trusted partner in food delivery app development services, committed to delivering a world-class solution that scales with your ambitions.
