Delivery vs Pickup: What It Actually Costs
The fees on a delivery order are visible. The markup on the menu itself is not, and it is usually the larger number.
Where the money goes
Menu prices inside third-party delivery apps typically run 15 to 25% above in-shop prices. That happens before delivery fee, service fee and tip are added.
Stacked together, a sub that costs $11 collected can approach $18 to $20 delivered.
The quality problem
Hot subs degrade fast. A cheesesteak twenty minutes into a delivery run is a materially worse sandwich, and the meatball and chicken parm subs are worse still because marinara soaks into the roll immediately.
Cold subs survive far better, which makes them the sensible delivery order if you are going to order delivery at all.
The middle option
Ordering ahead for collection through the chain's own app gets you the in-shop price, skips the queue, and produces a sub that has not been sitting in an insulated bag. It is the best of both and costs nothing extra.
Frequently asked
How much more is delivery?
Typically 15 to 25% on the menu prices alone, before delivery fee, service fee and tip.
Do delivery orders earn rewards points?
Often not through third-party apps. The chain's own app usually does qualify.
What travels best?
Cold subs. Avoid meatball and chicken parm entirely for delivery.
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