Introduction
Feeling too tired to cook after a long day exploring the Americana at Brand or the vibrant shops on Glendale Avenue? Perhaps you’re craving that perfect plate of Persian kabobs or a comforting bowl of ramen, but the thought of battling traffic is enough to keep you on the couch. Enter the wonderful world of food delivery in Glendale, California! This bustling city, known for its diverse cultural influences and thriving culinary scene, has fully embraced the convenience of having delicious meals brought right to your doorstep. From internationally recognized food delivery giants to locally owned gems offering specialized service, Glendale residents have a plethora of options when it comes to satisfying their hunger without lifting a finger (besides tapping a screen, of course). This guide will navigate you through the best food delivery services in Glendale, highlight some must-try restaurants offering delivery, and provide tips to ensure a seamless and satisfying experience from order placement to the first delicious bite.
Popular Food Delivery Services in Glendale
The food delivery landscape in Glendale is dominated by a few major players, each offering a slightly different experience and selection of restaurants. Understanding the nuances of these services can help you choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
Uber Eats
Uber Eats has become a ubiquitous presence in Glendale. Known for its intuitive app and wide network of drivers, Uber Eats provides access to a vast array of restaurants, from fast food favorites to upscale dining establishments. You’ll find everything from burgers and fries to authentic sushi and flavorful curries available for delivery through Uber Eats in Glendale. The app’s real-time tracking feature keeps you informed about your order’s progress, and the ability to rate your driver and the restaurant ensures quality control. Keep an eye out for Uber Eats-specific promotions in the Glendale area, such as free delivery days or discounts on orders from participating restaurants. These deals can often be found on the app’s homepage or through email notifications. They often have promotions like free delivery weekends and restaurant specific deals.
DoorDash
DoorDash is another dominant force in Glendale’s food delivery market. DoorDash prides itself on its speed and efficiency, aiming to get your food to you as quickly as possible. Like Uber Eats, DoorDash offers a diverse selection of restaurants in Glendale, covering a wide range of cuisines. DoorDash also features a “DashPass” subscription service, which offers unlimited free delivery on orders over a certain amount. This can be a worthwhile investment if you frequently order delivery. DoorDash is known for its partnerships with smaller, local restaurants, giving you access to hidden culinary gems that you might not find on other platforms. Check out their app for exclusive deals and promotions that can make your next meal even more affordable. They run many promo codes throughout the week that you can apply for discounts.
Grubhub
Grubhub rounds out the top tier of food delivery services in Glendale. Grubhub distinguishes itself with its focus on user experience and its “Perks” program, which rewards loyal customers with discounts and exclusive deals. Grubhub often features restaurants that are slightly different from those found on Uber Eats or DoorDash, so it’s worth checking out their app to see what unique options are available in Glendale. They have great customer support, in case any issues arise during your order. They are known for their quick response.
Best Restaurants for Delivery in Glendale by Cuisine
Glendale boasts a diverse culinary scene, and thankfully, many of the city’s best restaurants offer delivery through the aforementioned services. To help you navigate the options, here are some top picks categorized by cuisine:
Italian
For a taste of Italy delivered to your door, consider these Glendale favorites:
Mamma Mia’s Trattoria: This local favorite is known for its authentic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty Italian entrees. Their lasagna and spaghetti carbonara are particularly popular choices. They have large portion sizes, perfect for sharing.
Bella Cucina: Offering a more modern take on Italian cuisine, Bella Cucina specializes in fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative pasta dishes. Their risotto and grilled octopus are highly recommended. Their packaging is great to keep it warm until delivery.
Mexican
When a craving for south-of-the-border flavors strikes, these Glendale restaurants deliver the goods:
El Tapatio Mexican Grill: A Glendale staple, El Tapatio offers a wide range of classic Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to burritos and fajitas. Their carne asada and carnitas are perennial favorites. They are also great with customized orders, such as extra sour cream.
Guadalajara Restaurant: Known for its authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere, Guadalajara Restaurant delivers a taste of Mexico right to your door. Their mole poblano and chile relleno are must-tries. Their packaging is great and sturdy so you don’t have to worry about spills.
Armenian/Middle Eastern
Glendale’s strong Armenian heritage translates into a wealth of outstanding Middle Eastern restaurants offering delivery:
Zhengyalov Hatz: Specializing in traditional Armenian flatbread stuffed with fresh herbs and vegetables, Zhengyalov Hatz is a unique and delicious delivery option. Their namesake dish is a must-try, and they also offer a variety of other Armenian specialties. This is a great lighter option to delivery.
Carousel Restaurant: A Glendale institution, Carousel Restaurant serves up a wide range of Lebanese and Armenian dishes, from kebabs and hummus to falafel and shawarma. Their mixed grill platter is a great way to sample a variety of their offerings. They have amazing packaging that keeps the food fresh and secure.
Asian
From sushi to ramen, Glendale’s Asian food scene is well-represented on delivery apps:
Sushi Stop: A popular choice for affordable and delicious sushi, Sushi Stop offers a wide range of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. Their spicy tuna roll and California roll are always crowd-pleasers. They can also create special rolls for larger orders.
Tatsu Ramen: For a comforting bowl of ramen, Tatsu Ramen is the place to go. Their signature “Soul Noods” are a must-try, and they also offer a variety of other Japanese dishes. They are very prompt, and the food stays at a perfect temperature on arrival.
American
Sometimes, you just crave classic American comfort food. These Glendale restaurants deliver on that front:
The Habit Burger Grill: Known for its charbroiled burgers and crispy fries, The Habit Burger Grill is a reliable option for a quick and satisfying meal. Their Santa Barbara-style burger is a local favorite. They are also good with custom requests, such as no tomatoes.
Dinah’s Family Restaurant: For homestyle cooking and generous portions, Dinah’s is a Glendale institution. Their fried chicken, pot roast, and breakfast dishes are all popular choices. Their portions are amazing and they do great packaging.
Tips for a Smooth Food Delivery Experience in Glendale
To ensure a positive and hassle-free food delivery experience in Glendale, keep these tips in mind:
Provide Clear Delivery Instructions: Glendale has many apartments and gated communities, so providing detailed instructions to your delivery driver is crucial. Include building numbers, gate codes, and any other information that will help them find you quickly and easily. Always provide a cross street as a reference point.
Double-Check Your Order: Before submitting your order, take a moment to review it carefully. Make sure you’ve selected the correct items, quantities, and any special instructions (e.g., “no onions,” “extra sauce”). This can help prevent mistakes and ensure you receive exactly what you’re expecting.
Track Your Order and Be Available to Receive It: Once your order is placed, use the delivery app to track its progress. Be ready to answer your door or meet your driver when they arrive. This helps to minimize delays and ensure your food stays fresh. Be mindful of leaving a porch light on if it gets dark to help them see the location.
Be Mindful of Delivery Driver Etiquette: Delivery drivers work hard to bring you your food, so it’s important to treat them with respect and appreciation. Tipping appropriately is a standard practice, and a small gesture of kindness can go a long way. If the service was poor, consider tipping a little less and leaving a comment for management.
Check Restaurant’s Reviews and Ratings Before Ordering: Before placing an order at a restaurant you haven’t tried before, take a look at its reviews and ratings on the delivery app. This can give you a good sense of the quality of the food and the overall dining experience. Reviews often mention the delivery speed and customer service too.
Conclusion
Glendale offers a diverse and delicious array of food delivery options, catering to every taste and budget. From the convenience of Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub to the unique offerings of local restaurants, Glendale residents can enjoy a world of culinary delights without ever leaving their homes. Remember to explore different cuisines, take advantage of promotions, and follow the tips outlined in this guide to ensure a smooth and satisfying delivery experience. Download your favorite delivery app and start exploring Glendale’s culinary scene from the comfort of your home! It’s time to treat yourself to a delicious meal and let someone else do the cooking and the driving. Happy ordering!
