Best Cuisines to Try When Ordering Delivery

Not all food travels equally well. Some dishes arrive tasting just as good as they would in the restaurant, while others lose their magic the moment they leave the kitchen. Here is a guide to the cuisines that deliver best — literally — and what to order from each.

Indian

Indian food is arguably the king of delivery. Curries, biryanis, and dal actually improve as the flavors meld during transport. Naan bread stays warm in insulated bags, and dishes like butter chicken, palak paneer, and chana masala are virtually identical to the restaurant experience. Pro tip: order raita on the side to add freshness when it arrives.

Thai

Thai curries — green, red, and massaman — travel exceptionally well. Pad Thai and fried rice hold up too, though noodle soups are better eaten in-house. The bold flavors of lemongrass, galangal, and chili paste mean Thai food tastes vibrant even after a 30-minute delivery window.

Mexican

Burritos, burrito bowls, and tacos (especially if tortillas are packed separately) are delivery champions. Quesadillas stay crispy if the restaurant packs them right. Avoid dishes with lots of lettuce or guacamole that oxidize quickly — or request them on the side.

Japanese

Sushi delivery has become an art form, with restaurants using insulated packaging and ice packs. Beyond sushi, try ramen kits (broth and noodles packed separately), donburi rice bowls, and gyoza. Teriyaki dishes are another safe bet that hold temperature well.

Middle Eastern

Shawarma wraps, falafel platters, hummus, and grilled kebabs are built for takeout. These dishes originated as street food and were designed to be portable. The combination of warm proteins, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces creates a meal that is just as satisfying at home as it is at the restaurant.

Italian

Pizza is the original delivery food for a reason. Pasta travels well if it is sauce-heavy — carbonara and aglio e olio tend to clump, but bolognese, arrabbiata, and pesto hold up nicely. Ask for pasta al dente so it does not overcook in the container.

The best delivery experience starts with choosing the right cuisine. Browse restaurants near you on GeraEats and explore menus from all these cuisines and more.