What Were The Most Delivered Food Items of 2024?

In 2024, Americans proved they know what they like—and what they love to order. From takeout favorites to grocery delivery must-haves, the year was a tasty mix of old standbys and bold new trends. So, whether you’re a pizza fanatic or a "swicy" flavor adventurer, here’s the scoop on what topped the charts and filled plates across the country.

2024's Top Restaurant Takeout Orders

When it came to restaurant takeout, Americans gravitated towards familiar, comforting dishes. Burgers maintained their status as a quintessential choice, embodying the nation's love for hearty, customizable meals. Pizza, with its endless variety of toppings and styles, continued to dominate, offering both convenience and satisfaction. Fried chicken, celebrated for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, also saw a surge in orders, particularly with the rise of spicy variants catering to adventurous taste buds.

2024's Top Grocery Delivery Orders

In the realm of grocery delivery, chicken emerged as the undisputed champion. According to Grubhub's 2024 Delivered Trend Report, chicken was included in nearly 40% of all restaurant orders and featured prominently in grocery carts, being ordered almost three times as often as beef. This trend highlights a nationwide inclination towards versatile, protein-rich options suitable for a variety of home-cooked meals. The popularity of chicken reflects its adaptability in numerous cuisines and recipes, making it a staple in American households.

The ‘Swicy' Sensation

A notable trend in 2024 was the rise of‘swicy' flavors—a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy. This flavor profile captivated taste buds across the country, influencing a range of dishes from appetizers to main courses. The ‘swicy' craze signifies a growing consumer desire for complex, layered flavors that offer both heat and sweetness, adding excitement to traditional meals.

A Shift Towards Mindful Consumption

Interestingly, there was a significant increase in decaffeinated beverage orders, with a 5% boost in caffeine-free choices nationwide. This shift suggests a growing mindfulness towards health and sleep quality, as more consumers opted for decaf options to enjoy their favorite beverages without the stimulating effects of caffeine. The trend reflects a broader movement towards wellness and balanced living, even in daily indulgences.