DoorDash just dropped its second annual list of America’s Favorite Delivery Spots, and it says a lot about how the country eats today. The 2025 list highlights 20 highly rated local restaurants across a wide range of cuisines. These aren’t massive chains, but small-to-medium spots customers consistently love ordering from. From comfort food to globally inspired dishes, the list reflects changing tastes nationwide. It also shows how delivery has become a gateway to culinary exploration.
Local Restaurants Take Center Stage
This year’s list focuses entirely on small and mid-sized restaurants. Every spot has fewer than 10 locations, proving that local favorites still dominate customer loyalty. These businesses earned their place through consistently high ratings. DoorDash analyzed thousands of reviews to narrow the field. The result is a snapshot of what people truly enjoy ordering again and again.
Customer Ratings Drive the Rankings
The list wasn’t curated by trends alone—it was powered by data. DoorDash examined average customer ratings from January through October 2025. Each restaurant needed at least 1,000 reviews to qualify. This approach ensured the list reflected real, repeated customer satisfaction. Popularity alone wasn’t enough without quality to match.
Twenty Cuisines, One Nationwide Snapshot
The 2025 favorites span 20 different cuisine categories. This range highlights how diverse American delivery habits have become. From African to Vietnamese cuisine, the list stretches coast to coast. Each restaurant represents a standout within its category. Together, they paint a picture of broad and adventurous tastes.
African Cuisine Sees Major Growth
One standout trend is the rise of African cuisine. DoorDash reported a 61% year-over-year increase in African food orders. Cincinnati’s Terenga earned recognition for its West African flavors. This surge signals growing interest in bold spices and traditional dishes. Customers are clearly expanding their comfort zones.
Comfort Food Still Holds Strong
While global flavors are growing, classic comfort food remains a favorite. Southern cuisine from Texas and barbecue from Dallas made the list. These restaurants deliver familiar flavors with deep roots. Customers continue turning to comforting meals that travel well. Delivery hasn’t replaced tradition—it’s helping preserve it.
California’s Global Influence Shines
San Francisco appears multiple times on the list. The city is home to Burmese, Filipino, and Greek favorites. Each restaurant brings cultural traditions into modern dining. These spots highlight how regional food scenes influence national tastes. California’s diversity continues to shape delivery culture.
Unexpected Cities Steal the Spotlight
Not every standout comes from a major food capital. Kentucky is represented with Hawaiian barbecue in Lexington. Huntsville, Alabama earned a spot for Vietnamese cuisine. Knoxville, Tennessee appears with Mediterranean favorites. The list proves great food isn’t limited to big cities.
Fusion and Tradition Coexist
Some restaurants blend cultures, while others stick closely to tradition. Señor Sisig combines Filipino street food with California flair. Others, like Delhi Palace, focus on authentic regional flavors. Both approaches resonate with customers. The common thread is quality and consistency.
Why Delivery Fits These Restaurants
Many of these dishes travel well, making them ideal for delivery. Items like pasta, barbecue, curries, and rice-based dishes hold up during transit. That reliability helps maintain customer satisfaction. DoorDash’s platform allows these restaurants to reach loyal fans at home. Convenience plays a key role in repeat orders.
A Reflection of Changing Food Habits
The list reflects how people eat today—frequently at home, but adventurously. Customers aren’t just ordering meals; they’re exploring cuisines. Delivery makes it easier to support local businesses regularly. It also connects people to food they might not otherwise try. The barrier to discovery keeps getting lower.
Supporting Culture Through Every Order
DoorDash emphasizes that every order supports a local business. Many of these restaurants represent cultural heritage and community identity. Ordering delivery helps sustain those traditions. The list highlights how food brings people together, even from a distance. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about connection.
What Would You Order First?
DoorDash’s 2025 list shows how diverse and locally driven America’s delivery habits have become. From African dishes to Southern comfort food, the favorites span cultures and regions. These restaurants prove that quality and authenticity still win. Did your favorite cuisine make the list, or is there a local gem you think deserves recognition? Share what you’d order—or what we missed—in the comments.
