Your Deliveroo Habit Is Costing You More Than Eating Out

The weather is bad, it dark by 4 PM, and, let's be honest, your attempts at both Veganuary, Dry January, and any semblance of outdoor exercise have already failed. And so, you find yourself opening the door to the Deliveroo guy, who gives you a knowing nod as he hands over the pad Thai and asks if your cat recovered from the cold it had in December.

Tempting as it may be to order a takeaway on a cold winter's night, you could be better off leaving the house and eating out. And not just because it'll give your sofa a break—it could save you money.

A new investigation from The Times has revealed exactly how much more diners pay when ordering food to be delivered, compared to eating the same meal in the restaurant.

In a survey of Deliveroo takeaway menus and "dine-in" menus from various establishments, the newspaper reports that delivery customers pay up to two thirds more than diners eating at the restaurant.

The Times claims that restaurant chains like Byron and Pod are marking up items to cover the commission taken by Deliveroo, which is legally allowed.

It's not a small amount, either. A group of four people ordering a burger, fries, and salad from Byron could pay £10.50 extra compared to dining at the restaurant, while a Pod chocolate brownie jumps in price from £1.50 to £2.50.

You're not safe by switching your takeout allegiance, either. Restaurants who use UberEATS and Just Eat were also found to charge more on takeaway menus compared to their eat-in menu. The Times says Hungry House is the only delivery service to ban businesses from bumping up the price of your chicken katsu or meat feast when you choose Netflix over the outside world.

It seems we've just got decide whether being able to binge-watch Narcos over a bacon cheeseburger and fries is worth the extra spend.