Ordering food online has become an increasingly popular and convenient hobby for people from all walks of life. With just a few minutes of browsing, you can locate your favourite dish and effortlessly place an order. The best part? The hot delivery arrives right on time, and as you open the container, the aroma of freshly prepared food tantalises your senses. However, despite the ease and satisfaction it brings, there are downsides to this seemingly mechanical way of life that may not appeal to everyone, myself included.
I understand that for some, this article may seem trivial, especially if you’re already convinced of the benefits of ordering food. But if you can spare a few moments, I hope this write-up can challenge your perspective. If you don’t resonate with the content, I welcome your feedback in the comment section below. Rest assured, I won’t keep you on hold like customer service calls tend to do.
Let me share a personal experience I had one day while I was in the vicinity of Indiranagar. I bumped into a friend who both works and resides in the same area. During our conversation, I mentioned a street chat shop located right next to his office. This particular shop has gained fame for its mouthwatering cutlet masala. Surprisingly, my friend had never heard of it, despite it being an old establishment. Intrigued, I took the opportunity to introduce him to this culinary gem. Since that day, he has made it a habit to indulge in the flavours of the famous cutlet masala almost every evening before heading home. So, what’s the moral of this story? Sometimes, you just need to step out and explore to discover delightful experiences.
Still not convinced? No worries. Keep reading for more compelling reasons to consider.
Swiggy, Zomato & Other Online Delivery Scams
While it’s true that a vast number of people rely on food delivery services each day, it’s important to be aware of certain practices employed by these companies that might be disadvantageous to customers. Take, for instance, the case of Zomato, which has been accused of overcharging its customers to maximize its own profits.
Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario where I order food from a nearby restaurant with an original cost of 100 rupees. However, when using Zomato or Swiggy, each menu item is marked up by 10%, meaning I end up paying 110 rupees for items that originally cost 100 rupees. In addition to this, Zomato or Swiggy may impose various additional charges such as Package Charges (ranging from 10 to 35 rupees) and a delivery fee of 35 rupees. Consequently, the total bill amounts to 155 rupees, resulting in an extra 55% cost for the food alone. Moreover, these platforms occasionally offer a 10% discount on the food, but if you’re adept at mathematics, it’s evident that the discount doesn’t truly offset the overall increased cost. Furthermore, during unfavourable weather conditions, Zomato or Swiggy might even request a surcharge, while also prompting customers to add tips for the riders, which may or may not directly benefit the delivery personnel. As if these concerns weren’t enough, there have been instances of delivery persons tampering with or consuming customers’ food.
It’s crucial to stay informed about these potential issues associated with food delivery services. By being aware of the costs involved and the possible risks, customers can make more informed decisions when choosing how to order their meals.
Get out!
There are numerous advantages to stepping out and dining in at restaurants or trying street food, as opposed to relying solely on online food delivery. By venturing outside, you open yourself up to a world of culinary exploration, where you can discover a variety of restaurants, diverse cuisines, and unique flavours. Not only does this add excitement and novelty to your dining experience, but it can also be a more cost-effective option.
When you visit a restaurant in person, you have the opportunity to enjoy food that is often more delicious and freshly prepared compared to delivered meals. Many establishments prioritize quick service by pre-cooking and storing parcels, which are then reheated upon ordering and delivered to customers. In contrast, when dining in, you can savour dishes that are made-to-order, ensuring optimal taste and freshness.
Moreover, visiting restaurants allows you to assess the hygiene conditions firsthand. You can observe the cleanliness of the establishment, the handling of food, and the overall ambience, providing you with confidence and peace of mind about the quality and safety of the meals you consume.
Imagine the satisfaction of walking into a restaurant with a rumbling stomach, indulging in a delightful meal, and leaving with a sense of contentment. Additionally, opting for a walk to and from the restaurant can provide a chance to burn some calories, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
Therefore, rather than exclusively relying on online food delivery apps that may come with hidden costs or other drawbacks, consider going out to eat, exploring different dining options, and fully enjoying your meals. Reserve online ordering for situations where it is truly necessary, such as emergencies or specific circumstances. By embracing the experience of dining out, you can enhance your culinary journey and make the most of each meal.
