9 Most Popular Food Delivery Orders Plus Wine Pairings

Jason McClain

Food delivery has become an integral part of our lives, especially in recent years. Whether you’re craving a quick bite from your favorite local spot or indulging in a gourmet meal at home, food delivery services have made it easier than ever. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of food delivery, including the top companies, leading restaurants, and the most popular orders with wine pairing tips.

The Rise of Food Delivery Services

In the past decade, food delivery services have seen a remarkable rise. This surge can be attributed to the convenience they offer, the increasing demand for restaurant-quality food at home, and the ever-expanding options available at our fingertips.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular food delivery companies that have become household names.

The Big Players in Food Delivery

DoorDash

DoorDash is currently the leader in the U.S. food delivery market. With a user-friendly app and a vast selection of restaurants, it’s no surprise that DoorDash has become the go-to service for many. They also offer DashPass, a subscription service that provides free delivery on orders over a certain amount, making it even more appealing for frequent users.

Uber Eats

Uber Eats leverages the already-established Uber platform, making it one of the most convenient options for users who already use Uber for transportation. The app is known for its seamless integration and extensive restaurant options, including both fast food and upscale dining.

Grubhub

Grubhub is another major player in the food delivery space. They’ve been around for a while and have built a loyal customer base by partnering with a wide variety of restaurants. Grubhub also owns other delivery services like Seamless, increasing their market reach.

Postmates

Postmates, now owned by Uber, is unique in that it delivers more than just food. You can get groceries, alcohol, and even retail items delivered. This versatility has made it a popular choice for those who want more than just a meal.

Instacart

While Instacart is primarily known for grocery delivery, they’ve expanded their services to include restaurant meals. This makes them a one-stop shop for both your grocery and dining needs, offering convenience for those who prefer to get everything in one go.

Pizza remains a top delivery food item.

When it comes to food delivery, fast food restaurants consistently top the list due to their widespread appeal and reliable service. Here are a few that are frequently ordered:

1. McDonald’s
A classic choice, McDonald’s is a staple for fast food lovers. Their breakfast items, burgers, and fries are some of the most ordered items on delivery platforms.

2. Chick-fil-A
Known for its chicken sandwiches and waffle fries, Chick-fil-A has a loyal customer base that often turns to delivery to get their fix.

3. Chipotle
Chipotle’s customizable burritos and bowls are popular among those looking for a quick, filling, and relatively healthy meal.

4. Starbucks
Coffee and breakfast items from Starbucks are also highly ordered, especially during morning rush hours.

5. Domino’s Pizza
Pizza remains a delivery favorite, and Domino’s is often at the top of the list thanks to its quick service and variety of options.

Now, let’s discuss the fun part—pairing your favorite delivery meals with the perfect wine. Here are some popular food orders and wine pairing suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Pizza (Margherita)

Wine Pairing: Chianti
Chianti, with its bright acidity and red fruit flavors, complements the simplicity and freshness of a Margherita pizza.

Sushi food delivery with wine pairing

Sushi (Assorted Rolls)

Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc
The crisp and citrusy notes of Sauvignon Blanc pair beautifully with the delicate flavors of sushi, especially rolls with fresh fish and vegetables.

Burger (Cheeseburger)

Wine Pairing: Zinfandel
A juicy cheeseburger pairs well with a bold Zinfandel. The wine’s fruity and spicy notes balance the richness of the burger.

Fried Chicken

Wine Pairing: Sparkling Wine
The effervescence of a sparkling wine like Champagne or Prosecco cuts through the greasiness of fried chicken, making it a refreshing pairing.

Spicy Thai Curry

Wine Pairing: Riesling
Riesling, especially off-dry varieties, works wonders with spicy dishes. Its sweetness balances the heat, while its acidity keeps the flavors bright.

Macaroni and Cheese

Wine Pairing: Chardonnay
A creamy, rich dish like macaroni and cheese pairs well with an oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s buttery texture and subtle hints of vanilla complement the cheesy goodness

Tacos/Burritos

Wine Pairing: Malbec
For hearty and flavorful tacos or burritos, especially those with beef or spicy fillings, Malbec is a great choice. Its dark fruit flavors and smooth tannins work well with the robust flavors of Mexican cuisine.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Wine Pairing: Gewürztraminer
The aromatic and slightly sweet nature of Gewürztraminer pairs beautifully with the rich, spiced flavors of chicken tikka masala. This wine helps to cool down the spice while enhancing the dish’s complexity.

Veggie Burger

Wine Pairing: Pinot Noir
A veggie burger, especially one made with earthy ingredients like mushrooms or lentils, pairs wonderfully with Pinot Noir. The wine’s light body and red fruit notes complement the savory flavors without overpowering them.

  • According to DoorDash, chicken fingers and fries are the most popular food items ordered this year.
  • The California roll has secured the No. 9 spot as one of the most-ordered items on DoorDash this year.
  • On Grubhub, milk tea, also known as boba tea, has seen a 168% increase in popularity compared to the previous year.
  • In the US, French fries are the most popular food ordered online, followed closely by chicken quesadillas and mozzarella sticks.
  • Grubhub orders for plant-based burgers have surged by 291%, nearly matching the 299% growth of the spicy chicken sandwich.
  • Mexican cuisine remains a top choice for food deliveries, with tacos and burritos leading the way, as highlighted by the Uber Eats 2020 Cravings Report.
  • Wine and champagne have recently become the most ordered alcoholic beverages for delivery by consumers in the US, Australia, and New Zealand.
  • Globally, people prefer to end their week with convenience, making Friday and Saturday the most popular days for ordering food and alcohol delivery.

The food delivery industry is constantly evolving, offering consumers more options and convenience than ever. Whether ordering from a big-name chain or a local favorite, there’s no shortage of delicious meals to enjoy at home. And with the right wine pairing, your delivery experience can go from good to gourmet.

So next time you’re browsing your favorite food delivery app, consider trying one of the recommended wine pairings from McClain Cellars. You might just discover a new favorite combination!

Published by

Jason McClain

As the proprietor of McClain Cellars, I am thrilled to finally do the one thing I have always loved the most. Create amazing wines to be shared with my family and friends. After spending 25 years in the dot-com space, my wife Sofia and I decided to throw caution to the wind and focus on what is really important: family, friends, faith and freedom. These are the pillars of this winery and why I love everything about it.

McClain Cellars