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Complete Guide to Food Delivery in China (Meituan/Ele.me)

Detailed tutorial for foreigners on ordering food delivery using Meituan and Ele.me apps in China.

Easy ⏱️ 30 minutes πŸ“ Nationwide
Food DeliveryMeituanEle.meDeliveryFood

Complete Guide to Food Delivery in China

Food delivery has become an integral part of daily life in China. This guide teaches you how to use Meituan Waimai and Ele.me to easily enjoy delivery services.

πŸ“± Main Delivery Platforms

Meituan vs Ele.me

PlatformMarket ShareFeaturesRating
Meituan Waimai65%Most merchants, fast delivery⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ele.me30%Alibaba-owned, many discounts⭐⭐⭐⭐

Recommendation: Download both, compare prices and discounts before ordering

πŸ” Registration and Setup

Download Apps:

  • Meituan Waimai: Search in App Store
  • Ele.me: Search or use through Alipay mini-program

Registration: Phone number, WeChat, or Apple ID

Key: Add Delivery Address ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Be detailed: Building, unit, room number
  • Add contact name and phone
  • Can save multiple addresses

🍱 How to Order

6-Step Process

  1. Select Restaurant: Browse, search, or filter
  2. Add Items: Choose dishes, quantity, specifications
  3. Use Discounts: Coupons, full reduction, red envelopes
  4. Submit Order: Confirm address, payment, notes
  5. Track Delivery: Real-time rider location
  6. Receive Food: Check items, confirm receipt

Key Features

  • Schedule Orders: Order breakfast/lunch in advance
  • Group Orders: Order with colleagues/roommates
  • Contact Rider: Call or message through app
  • Order History: Reorder favorite meals

πŸ’° Cost Breakdown

ItemAmountNotes
Food PriceBy dishMerchant pricing
Packaging FeeΒ₯1-3Box fee
Delivery FeeΒ₯2-8By distance
Discounts-Β₯XCoupons, etc.
TotalFinalWhat you pay

Membership

Meituan/Ele.me VIP: Β₯15-25/month

  • Benefits: Monthly coupons, free delivery, priority delivery

🎯 Tips and Notes

Money-Saving Tips

  1. Collect coupons daily
  2. Order during off-peak hours
  3. Group orders to reach discount thresholds
  4. Compare platforms

Safety and Etiquette

  • Check food packaging integrity
  • Note allergies in remarks
  • Be understanding during bad weather
  • Rate riders fairly

For Non-Chinese Speakers

  • Order by looking at photos
  • Use translation app for menu
  • Choose chain restaurants (may have English)
  • Ask hotel staff for help

πŸ†˜ Common Issues

Q: Can foreigners use food delivery apps? A: Yes! Supports international phone numbers and payment through Alipay/WeChat (with international cards).

Q: How to fill address? A: Use location or search hotel name. Fill in detailed room number. Can use translation app for Chinese address.

Q: Delivery too slow? A: Peak hours (11:30-13:00, 18:00-19:30) are slower. Can contact rider or request refund.

Q: Problem with food? A: Take photos, apply for refund through order details.

πŸ“ Quick Start

Preparation:

  • βœ… Download Meituan/Ele.me
  • βœ… Register and add detailed delivery address
  • βœ… Bind payment method
  • βœ… Claim new user coupons

First Order:

  1. Select restaurant (check ratings and reviews)
  2. Add items to cart
  3. Use available coupons
  4. Confirm address and notes
  5. Submit and pay
  6. Wait for delivery
  7. Receive and rate

Enjoy convenient food delivery service! 🍱✨