Amidst rising prices for everyday goods, a reporter embarked on a challenge to find the most satisfying fast-food lunch for $10 or less, evaluating several major chains accessible to offices in Manhattan. The evaluation considered any available coupons or promotions, excluded tips, and focused on personal meal preferences. The cost of meals was calculated with tax.
McDonald's offered a Meal Deal including a McDouble, four-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a soft drink for $7.62. Upgrading the fries to medium pushed the total to $10.49. The reporter noted that the same meal cost $6 a year prior, representing a nearly 17 percent increase.
At Subway, a 'buy one footlong, get one free' offer was available for 'Sub Club' members, but the reporter opted for the $6.99 meal of the day, which on Fridays is a Black Forest Ham 6-inch sub. Including chips and a small soda, the total came to $7.61. The reporter noted that Subway's deals and discounts are substantial, and with the remaining budget, another bag of chips could have been purchased.
Wendy's 'Biggie Bundle,' priced at $8.71 with tax, included a Jr Bacon Cheeseburger, a Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Jr fries, and a soda, which was considered a significant amount of food for the price.
Cava's Mediterranean-inspired options were explored, with the reporter opting for a Kids Meal to stay under budget. This meal included toppings, pita chips, and a drink for $8.98. While not as filling as other options, it was praised for its flavor and freshness.
Raising Cane's Kid's Combo, featuring two chicken fingers, one Cane's sauce, fries, and a drink, cost $9.57. The reporter found this to be the least filling option despite its higher price point, noting it did not include the chain's Texas toast.
Dig Inn's vegan favorites plate, consisting of crispy tofu, charred broccoli, and cowboy caviar with sauce, was priced at $9.80. The reporter found this to be a fresh and filling option with 17 grams of protein.
Panera Bread offered a half Turkey and Cheddar Sandwich with a side of chips for $9.57. The reporter declined a drink, opting for water, and noted that while the sandwich was less hearty than Subway's, added free toppings improved it.
Chipotle's prices have increased significantly, with a standard chicken bowl costing around $11.50. To meet the $10 limit, a kids meal was ordered, which included a protein, guacamole or queso, two toppings, tortillas, and a side. This meal cost $6.48, and with the addition of chips and salsa for $2.85, the total reached $9.58.
Several chains, including Sweetgreen, Naya, and Chopt, were too expensive for the challenge. The reporter deemed Cava the best value, considering price, portion size, and flavor, despite Subway being the cheapest option at $7.61. The overall findings suggest that eating out remains an expensive endeavor.