Ordering a takeaway online should be a hassle-free experience, but let’s be honest—sometimes things don’t go as planned. Maybe you ended up with the wrong order, paid more than expected, or waited far too long for your food to arrive. The good news? Most of these issues can be avoided with a few simple steps.
To make sure you get the best meal, at the right price, and on time, here are the top five mistakes people make when ordering a takeaway online—and how you can avoid them.
1. Ignoring customer reviews
We get it—when you’re hungry, you just want to order quickly. But skipping the customer reviews could be a recipe for disaster. Reviews give you insights into the restaurant’s food quality, portion sizes, and delivery speed.
Many people make the mistake of only looking at the overall rating and ignoring detailed feedback. Instead, take a minute to scan recent reviews to check for consistency. If a restaurant has multiple complaints about late deliveries or wrong orders, it’s best to look elsewhere.
2. Not checking the menu properly
Have you ever ordered in a rush and ended up with a dish that wasn’t quite what you expected? One of the most common online food ordering mistakes is not reading the menu carefully. Some items might have similar names, and some restaurants might not allow customisations.
Before you hit “order,” double-check the ingredients, portion sizes, and any available options for extras or modifications. This way, you avoid surprises—and potential disappointment—when your food arrives.
3. Forgetting to apply discounts
Let’s be honest—everyone loves a good deal! But you’d be surprised how many people forget to apply takeaway discounts at checkout. Many online platforms offer promo codes, first-order discounts, or loyalty rewards, but they often require you to enter a code manually.
Before placing your order, check if there are any takeaway discounts available. It’s also worth signing up for restaurant newsletters or following them on social media to get exclusive offers. Why pay more when you can save money with just a few clicks?
4. Ordering at peak times without expecting delays
We all crave a takeaway delivery on a Friday night or during a big match, but so does everyone else. This often leads to longer waiting times, and many people forget to factor this in.
If you’re ordering at a peak time, check the estimated delivery window and be prepared for slight delays. Ordering a bit earlier or opting for collection can sometimes get your food faster. Some restaurants even offer real-time tracking, so you can see where your order is at any moment.
5. Not checking the delivery details
A simple but crucial mistake—entering the wrong delivery address or forgetting to update your details if you’ve moved. This can lead to delays or, in the worst case, your food being sent to the wrong location.
Before confirming your takeaway delivery, double-check your address, contact number, and any delivery instructions. If you’re using a work address, ensure the restaurant delivers within their service area during your working hours.
Final thoughts
Ordering a takeaway online should be easy and enjoyable. By avoiding these common online food ordering mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and satisfying experience every time.
Also, if you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and hassle-free way to order your favourite meals, try Foodhub! We offer takeaway discounts, no hidden fees, and a wide selection of local restaurants.
Visit foodhub.co.uk today and enjoy the best of takeaway delivery without the stress!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the most common mistakes people make when ordering takeaway online?
Some of the top mistakes include not checking the order details, ignoring delivery times, skipping reviews, choosing the wrong payment method, and overlooking hidden fees.
2. How can I make sure my takeaway order is accurate?
Always double-check your cart, delivery address, and any special instructions before placing the order. It’s also a good idea to confirm allergy or dietary needs in the notes.
3. Why is it important to read restaurant reviews before ordering?
Reviews offer insight into food quality, portion sizes, and delivery reliability—helping you avoid unpleasant surprises.
4. Does Foodhub help ensure I get what I ordered?
Absolutely! Foodhub lets you add clear notes for special requests and dietary needs, and you receive instant confirmation—minimising errors and ensuring a smooth experience.
5. What if there’s an issue with my order?
Foodhub offers responsive customer support and works closely with restaurants to resolve any issues quickly. We’ve got your back.
