Food Delivery Service Comparison

According to the CDC newsletter on food safety, the chances of transmitting the coronavirus via food is low. So while restaurants and most businesses close, take out and food delivery is still an option for most Americans stuck at home.

And the most popular apps out there today (DoorDash, Grubhub, Uber Eats, and Postmates) are helping people do just that.

Here’s a quick breakdown of these services and what they’re offering during this time.

Fast-food

Lobby’s are closed, but the drive-through lives on. Most major fast-food chains are keeping people from dining inside but are still allowing for delivery, carry-out, and drive-thru orders.

Many fast-food chains partner with delivery services such as DoorDash or Uber Eats, so you can order a burger or a burrito without getting into your car. Some chains like McDonald’s are even waiving the delivery fee for these services. But if you’re looking for some normalcy, then it’s okay to hit the drive-through.

Not all chains are open, and some have different policies than others. The publication Eater has compiled a complete list of Measures Fast-Food Companies are taking that we highly recommend checking out.

Local Restaurants

Many local restaurants are still open, and now more than ever do they need your business. Through carry-out and delivery, you can help support your favorite local restaurants that often rely heavily on foot traffic.

Not every local restaurant is still operating, or they may have reduced hours or a reduced menu. If you’re curious about the status, we’ve found that most local businesses are posting their policy changes on their social media pages with Facebook being the most frequently updated channel - so we’d recommend starting there.

If all else, you can simply call as well.

Food Trucks/Pods

While in the same vein as local restaurants, food trucks and pods are getting hit even harder than local restaurants. Foot traffic is even more vital for these outfits, in many places such as New York City, a lot of street vendors are simply closing down under the quarantine guidelines.

We, being based in Portland Oregon, have a major food pod culture that we’d love to see supported.

We’ve noticed quite a few trucks and pods actually do delivery with companies such as DoorDash, Postmates, Grubhub, and Uber Eats, and so getting delivery is probably one of the best options to stay safe while keeping up support.

Again, check with social media or call to check on the status and latest policy changes.

Grocery Delivery Services

While many of the food delivery services mentioned above do deliver groceries, the stores they go to or partner with may be limited. For making your own meals, here are a few other grocery delivery services to take advantage of.

Amazon Fresh

FreshDirect

Walmart Grocery

Instacart

Jet