With the economy on shaky footing and inflation sticking around, fast food has come out as a real winner in 2023. McDonald’s saw sales soar by 10.3% in the fourth quarter of 2022, buoyed by low-income consumers who’re “trading down” to cheap fast food. Taco Bell saw similar success, reporting an 11% increase in U.S. sales.
Still, consumers are feeling the squeeze everywhere — even at fast-food chains. “With prices continually going up, it is becoming less and less worth it to eat at many fast food places,” a popular Reddit post reads. The original poster goes on to ask the r/Frugal community which fast-food chains still give you “the most bang for your buck.” We’ve compiled a list of r/Frugal’s top replies, contextualizing their picks in this frustrating economy.
1. Ikea
While it’s technically a furniture store, Ikea’s cafeteria “has really affordable meals with big servings,” one Redditor writes, adding that the kid’s meal is just a few bucks. The trick is to eat at Ikea without buying 15 other things. If you can manage that, Ikea’s cafeteria can be a quick and cheap alternative to fast food.
2. Wendy’s
Although one recent study found that Wendy’s is the most expensive fast-food chain, Redditors argue that the chain’s “4 for $4 meal” is still a steal. As the name implies, you get four items — a junior cheeseburger, nuggets, fries, and a drink — for just $4.
3. Costco
Like dining at Ikea, eating at Costco’s food court ceases to be frugal if you step foot in the store. But if you’ve got wicked self-control and can stick to your shopping list, then dinner at Costco isn’t a bad idea. Their legendary $1.50 hotdog and soda comb is quite literally inflation-proof, as it hasn’t gone up in price since 1985. And at just $10, Costco pizza is also surprisingly affordable.
Related: Food Court Showdown: Costco vs. Sam’s Club
4. Del Taco
This regional Tex-Mex chain is great for “relatively healthy” fast food, one commenter writes, noting that their “20 under $2” value menu and combos make for low-cost meals.
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5. McDonald’s (With the App)
You can still snag a deal at the golden arches as long as you take advantage of McDonald’s app. “No matter where you go, use the apps. It’s always way cheaper,” the thread’s top comment reads.
Related: The 25 Best Family Meal Deals from Popular Fast-Food Spots Offering Takeout and Delivery
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6. Taco Bell
As one of the few fast-food restaurants that has items for as low as $1, Taco Bell’s value menu remains a go-to spot for penny pinchers. In fact, that same study we mentioned earlier named Taco Bell the cheapest fast-food chain in the country.
Related: 12 Fast-Food Breakfast Deals That Make It Easier To Wake Up
7. Chipotle
You may be surprised to see Chipotle on this list given that most dishes start at around $10, but Redditors say that the portions make up for the price. To stretch your dollar further, order a bowl with double rice, double beans, and a tortilla on the side.
