
New Uber Eats customers can apply promo code "affeats10usJUN25" to get $10 off their first order of $20 or more. Terms and exclusions apply. The code is good from June 1 to June 30, 2025. Buy Now at Uber Eats

If you frequently take Uber rides or order delivery via Uber Eats, then an Uber One membership could save you up to $25 every month! What does Uber One get you? Well, you'll enjoy $0 delivery fees on eligible food, groceries, and more; up to 10% off eligible deliveries and pickup orders; 6% Uber Cash back and top-rated drivers on eligible rides; and the ability to cancel without fees or penalties. You can give the service a try for just $9.99 per month but if you're already sold, it's worth signing up for a year-long membership for $96, which offers a 20% savings compared to the monthly price. Buy Now at Uber Eats
Hungry? In today's fast-paced world, getting your favorite meals delivered right to your doorstep has gone from a luxury to a daily convenience for many. And when you think of food delivery, Uber Eats is almost certainly one of the first names that springs to mind. Born from the global ride-hailing giant Uber, this platform has transformed into a massive online food ordering and delivery service, connecting you with an incredible array of local restaurants, grocery stores, and even convenience shops. Whether you're craving a piping hot pizza, fresh sushi, your weekly grocery haul, or just a late-night snack, Uber Eats aims to be your go-to solution, bringing a virtual food court directly to your fingertips.
But beyond the sheer convenience, what's the real deal with Uber Eats? How exactly does it work, and how does it compare to other options like Instacart? What kind of fees can you expect, and is their Uber One membership actually worth the subscription? These are the questions every savvy consumer, especially tech-forward deal seekers, wants answered. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the world of Uber Eats, breaking down its features, costs, and sharing all the insider tips you need to make the most of the service.
And, of course, because you're here at DealNews, our primary mission is to help you save money. We'll be uncovering all the ways you can score promo codes on your first Uber Eats order, utilize bundles, and make smart choices to ensure you're getting those delicious deliveries without letting your budget take a hit. Let's get to it!
This Year's Pricing and Fees
So, you’re ready to order, but what’s it actually going to set you back? Uber pricing in general can feel a bit like a moving target because it’s made up of several components that can change based on where you are, what time it is, and which restaurant you’re choosing. Generally, you'll see the cost of your food items, and then a few potential fees. It's always a good idea to check the full price breakdown in the app before you hit that "Place order" button, so there are no surprises.
Here’s a rundown of the common fees you might encounter with Uber Eats in 2025. (Keep in mind, exact amounts for these fees are highly variable and depend on your city, the specific restaurant, distance, time of day, and current demand. The descriptions below explain what they are, but always check your app for the precise cost on any given order.)
Fee |
Amount |
Description |
---|---|---|
Delivery Fee |
$0 - $8+ (usually $0.49 - $5) |
Pays for getting your order from the restaurant to you |
Service Fee |
10% - 15% of order subtotal |
Covers operational costs like payment processing and customer support |
Small Order Fee |
Usually $2 - $3 |
Applied if your order subtotal is below a certain minimum |
Priority Delivery Fee |
Often $1.99 - $3.99 |
An optional extra to have your order delivered without other stops |
Local Fees |
Varies by location |
Offsets local regulations; some areas add extra fees to support drivers |
Surge Pricing/Busy Fee |
Roughly $2 - $8+ |
Fees might increase during peak times or when demand is high |
Driver Tip |
Usually 10% to 20% |
An optional but recommended gratuity for your delivery driver |
It's also important to remember that restaurants themselves set the prices for their menu items on the Uber Eats platform. Some restaurants may choose to price their items slightly higher on the app compared to their in-restaurant prices. This is often done to help them cover the commission fees (which can be 15% to 30% or more) that Uber Eats charges for facilitating the order and delivery. So, while you're getting convenience, the base cost of your food might be a tad more than picking it up yourself.
How Does Uber Eats Compare to Alternatives?
As a global powerhouse in online food and essentials delivery, Uber Eats leverages the extensive Uber network to connect users with a wide array of restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience shops. For DealNews readers aiming to maximize value, understanding its competitive landscape against DoorDash and Grubhub is crucial.
Here's a comparative look:
Service |
Membership Cost |
Key Benefits and Focus |
---|---|---|
Uber Eats (and Postmates) |
Uber One: $9.99/mo or $99.99/yr |
Broad delivery range, plus Uber One perks (delivery and rides) |
DoorDash |
DashPass: $9.99/mo or $96/yr |
Huge restaurant/retail selection, bundled perks (like HBO Max) |
Grubhub |
Grubhub Plus: $9.99/mo or $90/yr |
Local restaurant partnerships, free for Amazon Prime members |
Instacart |
Instacart Plus: $9.99/mo or $99/yr |
Focus on groceries, EBT SNAP discount, limited restaurant offerings |
Uber Eats' key differentiator is the Uber One membership, which uniquely bundles benefits across both food/grocery delivery and Uber rides, making it an attractive proposition for individuals who frequently use both services. The platform, alongside sister company Postmates, offers a broad selection, covering restaurant meals comprehensively and increasingly expanding into groceries and other retail items. While DoorDash leads in overall U.S. market share and Grubhub provides exceptional value through its Amazon Prime partnership, Uber Eats maintains a strong competitive position with its integrated ecosystem and frequent promotional offers. For dedicated grocery needs, Instacart remains a highly specialized option.
For the astute DealNews shopper, an Uber One membership can represent significant savings, particularly if you're a regular user of both Uber rides and delivery services. Nevertheless, it's always recommended to compare the final order cost—factoring in current promo codes, restaurant-specific deals, and potential fees—against DoorDash, Grubhub, and Instacart (for grocery orders) to ensure you're securing the best possible value for your specific needs.
Uber One Subscription Pricing
If you find yourself ordering from Uber Eats or taking Uber rides fairly often, the Uber One subscription program is designed to save you money. Think of it as a VIP pass for the Uber ecosystem. For a monthly or annual fee, you get a bundle of perks that can quickly outweigh the cost if you're a regular user.
Plan |
Monthly Cost |
Yearly Cost |
Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
Uber One |
$9.99 |
$99.99 |
$0 delivery fee, up to 10% off orders, 6% back on rides, priority support |
Uber One for Students |
$4.99 |
N/A |
Same perks, student-specific deals, requires student status verification |
The core idea behind Uber One is that the accumulated savings on delivery fees, percentage discounts on your orders, and Uber One credits earned from rides should more than cover the membership fee for frequent users. You’ll often see a little Uber One icon next to participating restaurants and stores in the app, letting you know where your benefits apply. Keep an eye out for partner promotions too; sometimes, companies like Verizon or credit card issuers like Capital One run offers for discounted or free trial periods for Uber One.
A quick heads up: Uber announced some changes to the Uber One program, effective June 1, 2025, that include more variable minimum basket sizes to qualify for the $0 delivery fee, and the possibility of new fees on certain orders (like those outside your standard delivery area). As always, the app will show you the specifics before you confirm your order.
Pricing in Previous Years
Tracking the exact dollar amount of every single individual Uber Eats fee (like delivery or service fees) over the past several years is tricky, as they're so dynamic and location-dependent. However, we can look at the evolution of their subscription offerings, which have aimed to provide more predictable savings for regular customers. Before Uber One, many users might remember Uber Pass.
Year |
Subscription |
Monthly Cost |
Annual Cost |
Key Changes |
---|---|---|---|---|
2020 |
Uber Pass |
$24.99 |
N/A |
Uber Pass offered similar perks but with different structures |
2021 |
Uber One |
$9.99 |
$99.99 |
Uber One launched in November 2021, replacing Uber Pass |
2022 - 2024 |
Uber One |
$9.99 |
$99.99 |
Price remains stable with slight changes to benefits |
2024 |
Uber One for Students |
$4.99 |
N/A |
Student discount starts in May 2024, offers more affordability |
While individual service and delivery fees fluctuate based on real-time conditions, the Uber One subscription price (for both standard and student plans) has been quite stable since its implementation, offering a consistent way for users to budget for their Uber and Uber Eats usage. The main "changes" have often been in the refinement of benefits, expansion of participating merchants, and occasionally promotions and partnerships.
Subscription Package Differences
Deciding whether to spring for an Uber One subscription or just pay as you go really hinges on your ordering habits. Let's break down what you get with each approach.
Ordering Without Uber One
If you're an occasional Uber Eats user – perhaps indulging once a month or even less – sticking to the pay-per-order model might be the most economical choice. You'll encounter the standard array of fees with each order, such as the delivery fee (which can fluctuate based on distance and demand), a service fee (often a percentage of your subtotal), and potentially a small order fee if your cart doesn't hit a certain minimum. The good news is you can still absolutely take advantage of promo codes that Uber Eats offers, special deals from specific restaurants (like BOGOs or percentage-off discounts), and the "Deals" section within the app. You’re not locked into any recurring cost, giving you maximum flexibility for those infrequent cravings.
With Uber One
For those who find themselves frequently tapping the Uber Eats app (or hailing Uber rides), the standard Uber One membership is where the real savings can kick in. For a flat monthly fee of $9.99 (or an even better value with the $99.99 annual plan), you unlock a suite of benefits. The most significant perk is often the $0 Delivery Fee on eligible orders from participating restaurants and grocery stores (provided you meet the minimum order subtotal). Members also typically get up to 10% off eligible orders, which can add up fast. Plus, there are ride benefits like around 6% back in Uber One Credits, exclusive member-only promotions, and even potential Uber Cash if your "Latest Arrival" estimate is missed. If your typical monthly delivery fees and potential order discounts would exceed $9.99, this plan practically pays for itself. Just look for the Uber One icon next to merchants in the app.
With Uber One for Students
If you’re a student, Uber One for Students is an absolute steal at just $4.99 per month. You’ll need to verify your student status, but once you do, you get the same core benefits as the standard Uber One membership – the $0 Delivery Fees, the percentage discounts on eligible orders, and the ride perks – all at half the price. For students juggling classes, assignments, and a budget, this discount makes meals or rides significantly more affordable. It’s a no-brainer if you’re eligible and use Uber services even semi-regularly.
Ultimately, take a quick look at your past Uber Eats orders or estimate your future usage. If the fees you’d save and discounts you’d gain with an Uber One plan outweigh the subscription cost, it’s a smart investment in your convenience and your budget.
What to Order on Uber Eats This Year
Beyond the convenience, one of the best things about Uber Eats is the sheer variety at your fingertips. It’s not just about grabbing a quick burger anymore (though you can definitely do that!). The platform has evolved into a comprehensive delivery service for a whole range of needs. Uber's annual Cravings Report gives us a fascinating peek into what folks are actually ordering, revealing everything from national bestsellers to surprisingly popular everyday essentials. So, what exactly can you get delivered?
- Restaurant Meals: From your favorite local Italian spot and national fast-food chains to high-end dining and trendy new eateries
- Groceries: Order fresh produce, pantry staples, dairy, meats, and more, delivered right to your kitchen
- Alcohol: Delivery of beer, wine, and spirits from participating liquor stores and restaurants (where legally permitted, of course)
- Convenience Items: Many convenience stores offer essentials like batteries, pain meds, or a phone charger for quick delivery
- Pet Supplies: Find pet stores on Uber Eats, delivering everything from food and toys to other pet care necessities
- Flowers: Need a last-minute bouquet? Uber Eats has you covered, with flower delivery available from local florists
Essentially, if you can find it in a local store or restaurant that partners with Uber Eats, there's a good chance you can get it delivered. The platform is constantly expanding its partnerships, so it’s always worth a browse to see what’s new in your area.
Most Popular Meals and Orders
So, with a whole universe of culinary options at our beck and call, what are we actually ordering when hunger strikes? The Uber Eats Cravings Report gives us a delicious glimpse into America's collective stomach, and it seems we're a nation that loves our comfort classics and endlessly customizable meals! Leading the charge, the ever-versatile burrito bowl snags a top spot, proving that a perfectly assembled bowl of goodness is hard to beat. Of course, no list of favorites would be complete without the crispy, salty perfection of French fries (and their close cousin, waffle fries), which consistently rank high, especially as the #1 late-night order.
Both chicken nuggets and the classic chicken sandwich make frequent appearances in our virtual delivery bags, satisfying that craving for something savory and satisfying. And for those moments when only cheesy, carby goodness will do, cheeseburgers, mac and cheese, and pepperoni pizza are the heroes we turn to. Rounding out the popular picks are trusty boneless wings for game day (or any day, really) and flavorful fried rice, a takeout staple.
But our national palate isn't just about the main course. The Cravings Report also tells us we're a nation that goes bananas for... well, bananas! They’re the undisputed champion of grocery orders, topping the list every single day of the week. And how do we like to spice things up? Hot sauce is America's favorite condiment wingman, closely followed by the tangy trio of sweet 'n' sour sauce, ranch, and BBQ. We also clearly know what we want (and don't want!) with "no onion," "no tomato," and "extra sauce" being some of the most frequent special requests.
How to Save the Most on Uber Eats
Let's be real, while the convenience of food delivery is fantastic, those fees can sometimes make your wallet whimper. But fear not, fellow deal-seekers! As your trusty guides at DealNews, we're here to show you how to navigate the Uber Eats app like a pro and snag some serious savings. With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy those delicious deliveries without overspending.
Tap Into an Uber One Subscription
If you're ordering from Uber Eats or taking Uber rides more than just occasionally, the Uber One membership is often your first and best line of defense against mounting fees. For a monthly fee (around $9.99, or $4.99 for the student plan) or an annual fee (around $99.99), you can unlock $0 Delivery Fees on eligible orders over a certain minimum from participating restaurants and grocery stores. Plus, you typically get up to 10% off those eligible orders, and even earn around 6% back in Uber One Credits on eligible rides, which you can then apply to future Eats orders. Do a quick mental math: if you save more on delivery fees and discounts than the cost of the membership each month, it's a win! Look for the Uber One icon next to merchants in the app.
Make the Deals Tab Your Best Friend
Seriously, this section in the Uber Eats app is a goldmine for savings. You can often find $0 delivery fee offers, pre-ordered daily dinner deals, and tons of restaurant-specific rewards and discounts. Many eateries offer exclusive deals directly through the app, like a percentage off your total bill, free appetizers, or discounted meal bundles.
Opt for Pickup
If the restaurant is conveniently located, or you're already out and about, choosing the "Pickup" option instead of delivery is a surefire way to save. You'll bypass delivery fees and often reduce or eliminate service fees altogether. You just swing by the restaurant and grab your order when it's ready.
Combine Orders with Friends or Family
Ordering for a group? Combine everyone's choices into a single order. This can help you easily meet any minimum spending requirements for $0 Delivery Fee offers or other promotions, and you'll only pay one set of applicable fees (if any) instead of multiple.
Schedule Orders in Advance
While not always a direct discount, scheduling your Uber Eats order for a later time or day can sometimes help you avoid peak-time busy fees or the need to pay for priority delivery. It also ensures your order gets in before you’re absolutely ravenous!
Leverage Your Credit Card Rewards
Don't leave money on the table! Many credit cards offer bonus cash back or points for dining or food delivery purchases. Check the rewards program on your current cards. Sometimes, card issuers like Capital One have even offered promotions that include statement credits for Uber One memberships or bonus rewards on Uber Eats spending. It’s always worth checking for these specific partnerships.
Keep an Eye on Partner Promotions
Uber Eats occasionally teams up with other brands or services for special offers. These might be advertised via email, in the app, or on social media. For example, Verizon Plus Play currently offers a 3-month free trial of Uber One to new members. It pays to stay informed!
By combining these strategies, you can significantly cut down on your Uber Eats expenses and keep enjoying the convenience of delivered meals and goods.
Look for Bundle Deals or Family Meals from Restaurants
Many restaurants on Uber Eats offer specific Bundle Deals, Family Meals, or Combo Offers that are priced more attractively than ordering the items individually. These are perfect if you're ordering for multiple people or want leftovers for the next day. Check a restaurant's menu sections for these specially priced packages.
Sign Up for Uber Eats Email Newsletters
If you don't mind an extra email, signing up for the Uber Eats newsletter can sometimes result in exclusive promo codes or notifications about upcoming deals being sent directly to your inbox. You can usually manage your email preferences in your account settings.
Compare Across Platforms
While we're focused on Uber Eats here, the most dedicated deal seekers will sometimes compare prices for the same restaurant or a similar meal across different delivery apps (like DoorDash or Grubhub) if they're not committed to one platform. Fees and promotions can vary, so a quick check might reveal a better deal elsewhere for a particular order, though this takes extra effort.
Need to Cancel an Order or Uber One Subscription? Here’s How
Sometimes plans change, or maybe you’ve hit the wrong button. Whether you need to cancel a food order you just placed or you’ve decided your Uber One subscription isn’t the right fit anymore, knowing how to navigate the cancellation process is key. It’s usually pretty straightforward through the app, but there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid unexpected charges or confusion.
How to Cancel an Uber Eats Order
Realized you ordered for the wrong address or simply changed your mind right after ordering? Time is of the essence when cancelling an Uber Eats food order. Your ability to cancel, and whether you'll incur a fee, largely depends on how far along your order is in the process. Here’s how you can generally attempt to cancel an order through the app:
- Open the Uber Eats app and go to the current order screen or find your ongoing order in your order history.
- Look for an option that says "Cancel Order" or something similar.
- Tap "Cancel Order" and the app will likely ask you to confirm and select a reason for cancellation.
- Confirm your cancellation.
If the restaurant hasn't accepted your order yet, you can typically cancel without any issues or charges. However, if the restaurant has already accepted it, they may have started preparing your food. In this case, you might still be able to cancel through the app, but you could be charged a cancellation fee, potentially up to the full price of the order, especially if a courier has already been dispatched or the food is nearly ready.
How to Cancel Your Uber One Membership
If you've decided the Uber One membership isn't for you, or perhaps a promotional trial period is ending, you can cancel your subscription to avoid future charges. It’s a good idea to do this at least 24 to 48 hours before your next renewal date to ensure the cancellation processes in time and you aren't charged for the next period.
Here’s the typical process for cancelling Uber One, usually managed through the main Uber app:
- Open the Uber app and tap on your profile icon to access your account menu.
- Select "Uber One" from the menu options.
- Scroll down and tap on "Manage Membership."
- Look for an option like "End Membership" or "Cancel Membership" and select it.
- You’ll likely be asked to confirm your decision. Follow the prompts to complete the cancellation.
For most paid memberships, if you cancel, you’ll typically still have access to your Uber One benefits until the end of the current billing period you've already paid for. However, if you’re on a free trial and cancel, your benefits might end immediately, depending on the trial's specific terms. If your Uber One access is through a third-party promotional offer, such as from a credit card or mobile provider, your benefits might conclude when that promotional period ends. Generally, subscription charges are non-refundable once your billing cycle begins, unless required by law or in specific circumstances outlined by Uber, like a charge made very close to renewal that they state will be automatically refunded.
Uber Eats FAQs and Terms to Know
We've covered a lot about how to use Uber Eats, save money, and manage your account. But there are always a few more details that can make your experience even smoother. For instance, it's good to remember that while Uber Eats facilitates the connection between you, restaurants, and delivery partners, the actual food is prepared by the restaurant, and delivery is handled by independent couriers. This means if you have a highly specific dietary need or allergy, it's often best to communicate that clearly in the order notes, and if it's critical, you might even consider contacting the restaurant directly after placing your order to confirm. Also, while Uber Eats offers real-time tracking, delivery times are estimates and can be affected by things like traffic, weather, or how busy the restaurant is, so a little patience can sometimes be needed during peak hours.
It's also worth noting that Uber Eats operates globally, but features, fees, and restaurant availability can vary significantly from one city or country to another. The Uber One benefits, for example, are often tailored to the specific country you signed up in. If you're traveling, you can usually still use the app, but your local Uber One benefits might not apply.
For the most detailed and up-to-date information, it's always best to consult the official sources. You can find the comprehensive Terms and Conditions on their website, which cover everything from user accounts and payment to disclaimers and dispute resolution. If you have specific questions about an order, your account, or encounter any issues, the Help Center is your primary resource for support and further information. They have extensive FAQs and ways to get in touch with customer service directly through the app or website.