14 Takeout Chains That Are Losing Customers Due to High Prices
In recent years, the cost of dining out has climbed higher than ever, and takeout chains aren’t exempt from the trend. While people are willing to pay for convenience, some fast-food and takeout brands are testing the limits of what customers are willing to spend. As prices rise, many customers are starting to question whether the meals are worth the cost.
Whether it’s due to shrinking portion sizes, extra fees, or the lack of quality compared to the price, some chains are losing their appeal. Here’s a look at 14 takeout chains that were once beloved but are now seeing customers turn away due to high costs.
Chipotle
Chipotle has long been a favorite for fresh, customizable burritos and bowls, but rising prices have made many reconsider. What used to be an affordable meal has turned into a pricey option, especially with add-ons like guacamole and queso costing extra. Many customers complain that portion sizes have shrunk while prices have increased.
Delivery fees and service charges make takeout orders even more expensive. Though Chipotle still emphasizes quality ingredients, people are questioning if it’s worth paying $15 or more for a single meal. For those on a budget, it’s becoming harder to justify.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack is known for its premium burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and rich shakes, but its prices often shock first-time customers. A basic meal can easily cost $20 or more, especially if you add a shake to your order. While the quality is undeniable, many feel the portions don’t match the price tag.
The cost of upgrading to delivery makes it even less appealing for takeout. Customers are starting to opt for more affordable burger joints that offer better value. Shake Shack’s high prices make it a treat rather than a regular dining choice.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread markets itself as a healthier, upscale alternative to fast food, but its prices are a sticking point for many. A sandwich and soup combo can cost upwards of $15, leaving customers wondering if it’s worth it for such simple fare. The portions are often criticized for being too small for the price.
Extra fees for delivery or customization add to the already high cost. While Panera’s menu emphasizes fresh ingredients, people are starting to look for less expensive options for soups, salads, and sandwiches.
The Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory is synonymous with indulgent meals and enormous portions, but its takeout prices can be jaw-dropping. Entrees often start at $20, and adding dessert or an appetizer pushes the total even higher.
Many customers feel that the quality of the food doesn’t always justify the cost, especially for takeout, where presentation and freshness may suffer. Delivery fees and long wait times make the experience less appealing. As a result, people are saving The Cheesecake Factory for special occasions rather than regular takeout.
Five Guys
Five Guys prides itself on offering fresh, made-to-order burgers and fries, but the prices are a dealbreaker for many. A burger, fries, and drink combo can cost $20 or more, which feels excessive for fast food. While the quality is good, customers often point out that similar meals are available elsewhere for much less.
Delivery and service charges further inflate the total, making it one of the priciest burger chains for takeout. Many loyal fans are now cutting back on their visits, choosing more budget-friendly options instead.
Sweetgreen
Sweetgreen is a go-to for health-conscious diners, offering customizable salads and bowls made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. However, the high prices are making customers think twice. A simple salad can cost $15 or more, and adding extras like avocado or protein makes it even pricier.
Some feel the portions are not substantial enough to justify the cost. With so many other salad and bowl options available at lower prices, Sweetgreen’s premium appeal is starting to wear thin. People are starting to see it as an occasional splurge rather than an everyday option.
Nando’s
Nando’s is famous for its flavorful peri-peri chicken, but its prices are a growing concern for customers. A basic chicken meal with sides can cost over $20, making it one of the more expensive takeout options.
Many diners feel the portions have gotten smaller over time, which adds to the frustration. Delivery and service fees further inflate the cost, leaving customers looking for more affordable alternatives. While the food is still flavorful, it’s no longer the budget-friendly option it once was.
California Pizza Kitchen
California Pizza Kitchen offers unique, upscale pizzas, but its high prices are driving customers away. A single pizza can cost upwards of $20, and additional sides or drinks make the total even steeper.
Many diners feel the portions don’t justify the cost, especially when cheaper, equally delicious pizza options are widely available. Delivery charges also make CPK’s takeout experience less attractive. While the menu is creative, the high cost is a barrier for many pizza lovers.
PF Chang’s
PF Chang’s is a popular spot for Asian-inspired cuisine, but its takeout prices are a common complaint. A typical meal can easily exceed $20 per person, especially if you add appetizers or drinks.
Some customers feel that the flavors don’t justify the steep prices, particularly when compared to local Chinese takeout spots. Delivery fees and smaller-than-expected portions add to the frustration. While PF Chang’s remains a favorite for dine-in, its takeout business is losing appeal due to high costs.
Starbucks
Starbucks isn’t just about coffee; its expanding food menu offers everything from breakfast sandwiches to protein boxes. However, the prices for these items are often considered excessive. A basic sandwich or salad can cost $10 or more, and adding a drink makes the total skyrocket.
The portions are often small, leaving customers feeling like they didn’t get their money’s worth. For takeout, the extra fees for delivery make it even harder to justify. Many are opting for local cafes or other chains with better value.
Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza offers customizable, fast-casual pizzas, but its prices are creeping higher. A single pizza with several toppings can cost close to $15, and adding drinks or sides inflates the cost further.
While the pizza is good, many feel that it doesn’t offer enough value compared to other chains. Delivery fees also make Blaze Pizza less attractive for takeout. Customers are starting to choose cheaper alternatives for their pizza cravings.
Wingstop
Wingstop is known for its flavorful wings, but the cost of a meal is starting to turn people away. A combo with wings, fries, and a drink can easily exceed $15, which feels high for what you get.
Many diners feel the portion sizes have shrunk, especially when ordering for delivery. Extra fees and charges make the experience even less appealing. While the wings are tasty, many customers are opting for local wing spots that offer better deals.
Qdoba
Qdoba offers customizable burritos and bowls, but its prices are edging closer to those of competitors like Chipotle. Many customers feel the quality doesn’t justify the cost, especially for simple ingredients like rice and beans.
Add-ons like queso or guacamole make meals even more expensive. Delivery fees also add up quickly, making Qdoba less attractive for takeout. While it still has its fans, the chain is losing some appeal due to its rising prices.
Boston Market
Boston Market was once a go-to for hearty, homestyle meals, but its takeout prices have become a concern. A single meal with sides can easily cost $15 or more, making it less competitive with other fast-casual options.
Many customers feel the portions are too small for the price, and the quality doesn’t always live up to expectations. Delivery fees make the experience even less appealing. As a result, Boston Market is struggling to maintain its relevance in the competitive takeout market.
20 Foods No One Can Afford Anymore Due To Inflation
With the ever-rising living costs, some foods have become luxury items that only the wealthiest can afford. From exotic delicacies to once-affordable staples, the price hikes have made certain foods out of reach for the average consumer.
20 Foods No One Can Afford Anymore Due To Inflation
15 Ways to Shop Successfully On A Shoestring String Budget
In today’s economy, finding ways to stretch your budget while enjoying what you love is more important than ever. Whether you’re a savvy shopper looking to make the most of your hard-earned money or someone who enjoys the thrill of finding a great deal.
