I’ll always remember the night my roommate and I were incredibly hungry after a long day. We were craving some greasy, tasty takeout, but there was one small issue—we were completely broke. All we had was a crumpled twenty-dollar bill between us. We went through every delivery app we could think of, only to find that most of them required a card. Just when we were about to give up and settle for peanut butter sandwiches, we stumbled upon a pizza place that still accepted cash. Victory never tasted so sweet!
If you’ve ever found yourself in that situation, you know how frustrating it can be. Nowadays, almost everything is digital, making cash feel like it’s becoming a thing of the past. But here’s the good news—there are still some food delivery services that accept cash. Whether you prefer it for budgeting, privacy, or just out of habit, you have options. Let’s explore the best ways to get food delivered without needing a credit card.
Why Do Some Food Delivery Apps Say No to Cash?
Before we dive into the best cash-friendly services, let’s take a moment to understand why so many apps have moved away from cash payments:
- Safety Concerns – Carrying cash can put delivery drivers and restaurants at risk for theft or payment disputes.
- Faster Transactions – Digital payments make the process quicker, allowing drivers to complete more deliveries in less time.
- Contactless Preferences – Since the pandemic, many people have preferred touch-free transactions for convenience and hygiene.
- Fraud Prevention – Requiring card payments helps businesses avoid fake orders or disputes.
Even though many companies have moved away from cash, some still recognize that plenty of people prefer using physical money. Let’s discuss where you can still pay with cash.
Top 5 Food Delivery That Accepts Cash (2025 Updated)
Now that we understand why cash isn’t as commonly accepted, let’s dive into the services that still allow its use. Here are the top food delivery options that accept cash:
1. Grubhub – Your Best Bet for Cash Payments
Grubhub is one of the most cash-friendly food delivery apps available. Many restaurants on the platform still accept cash payments, although this varies by individual business. When you check out, simply look for the “Cash” option—if you see it, you’re in luck.
Pro Tip: Grubhub lets you filter restaurants by payment methods, which saves you the trouble of checking each one individually.
2. DoorDash (Limited Availability)
DoorDash used to be more accommodating with cash, but as of 2025, cash payments are only available in certain areas. Whether you can pay with cash depends on the restaurant and the driver. The easiest way to find out? Add items to your cart and proceed to checkout—if “Cash” shows up, you’re all set.
Heads-up: Some drivers may not have change, so it’s a good idea to have the exact amount ready.
3. Uber Eats (Only in Certain Areas)
Uber Eats primarily operates cashless in the U.S., but there are a few locations where cash payments are still an option. If it’s available in your area, you’ll see it during checkout. Uber Eats also allows you to tip digitally, even if you’re paying for your meal with cash.
How to Check: Add your items to the cart, go to checkout, and see if “Cash” is listed as a payment option.
4. Pizza Chains (Domino’s, Papa John’s, and More)
Major pizza chains like Domino’s, Papa John’s, and many local pizzerias still accept cash for delivery orders. If you’re unsure, just give the restaurant a call and ask.
Insider Tip: Many small, family-owned pizza places prefer cash to avoid credit card processing fees, so don’t hesitate to inquire.
5. Delivery.com – The Hidden Gem
Delivery.com may not be as famous as some of the larger services, but it connects customers with local restaurants, grocery stores, and liquor shops—many of which still accept cash. Just like with other options, be sure to check for cash acceptance.
Bonus: Since Delivery.com collaborates with independent businesses, you might discover more budget-friendly options compared to mainstream platforms.
Who’s Gone Fully Digital? (No Cash Allowed Here)
Certain food delivery services have eliminated cash payments altogether. If you prefer using physical money, these platforms won’t be suitable for you:
- Postmates (Merged with Uber Eats—now only accepts digital payments)
- Instacart (Only accepts card payments for groceries)
- Caviar (Owned by DoorDash, does not accept cash)
- Gopuff (Quick convenience store delivery, digital payments only)
- Amazon Fresh (Amazon’s grocery service, card-only)
If you prefer paying in cash, these platforms won’t work for you. But don’t worry, you still have solid options.
How to Find Restaurants That Accept Cash on Delivery Apps?
Curious if any nearby restaurants accept cash for delivery? Here’s a simple way to check:
- Open Your Favorite App – Start with Grubhub, DoorDash, or Uber Eats.
- Browse Restaurants – Choose a place that catches your eye.
- Go to Checkout – Add your food to the cart and proceed.
- Look for the Cash Option – If “Cash” is listed as a payment method, you’re good to go.
- Confirm and Pay on Arrival – Have your cash ready when the driver arrives.
Pro Tip: Grubhub lets you filter restaurants by payment method, so use this feature to save time.
If you don’t see the cash option at checkout, it means the restaurant or app doesn’t support it. In that case, try a different restaurant or platform. Many small eateries and pizza places still accept cash.
Paying with Cash? Here’s What to Keep in Mind
Before placing an order, here are a few reminders about cash payments:
- Not all restaurants accept it – Even on cash-friendly apps, some businesses choose not to.
- Delivery may take longer – Cash transactions can be slower than digital payments.
- Tip your driver – Some apps allow for digital tipping, but if not, make sure to tip in cash.
- Drivers may not have change – Try to have the exact amount ready to avoid any issues.
Just Like Chivalry, Cash Payments Aren’t Dead Yet!
While many platforms are shifting towards digital payments, you can still enjoy your favorite meals without needing a credit card. Whether you choose Grubhub, DoorDash (in certain areas), Uber Eats (if it’s available), or your local pizza place, cash remains an option.
The next time you’re in the mood for takeout and only have cash, just check your delivery apps to see if they offer that choice. Do you have a preferred app that still takes cash? I’d love to hear about it!
Enjoy your meal and happy ordering!
