What McAlister's Deli Is and How to Order
McAlister's Deli is a sandwich and salad chain with locations across the United States. You order at a counter, choose your bread and fillings, and pay before you eat. Most locations let you order in person, by phone, or through their website or mobile app for pickup or delivery.
The menu centers on hot and cold sandwiches built to order. You pick a base sandwich name, then customize the bread (white, wheat, honey oat, or rye at most locations), add or remove toppings, and choose a size. Sides include chips, cookies, and drinks. Salads and wraps are also available, and many locations offer a soup of the day.
Pricing varies by location and what you order. A standard sandwich typically costs between $8 and $12, though specialty items and larger sizes cost more. Many locations offer combo deals that bundle a sandwich, side, and drink at a lower total price than ordering separately.
Key Takeaways
- McAlister's lets you customize sandwiches by choosing bread type, adding or removing ingredients, and selecting portion size before you pay.
- You can order in person at the counter, by phone, or through the McAlister's website and mobile app for pickup or delivery.
- Combo meals that pair a sandwich with a side and drink usually cost less than ordering items individually.
- Most locations are open for lunch and dinner, with some offering breakfast items during morning hours.
- Delivery availability depends on your location and the specific restaurant; use the website to check what your nearest McAlister's offers.
How to Order Online or Through the App
The McAlister's website and mobile app let you browse the full menu, customize items, and place an order for pickup or delivery without visiting the restaurant. Start by entering your address or zip code to find the nearest location and see which services that restaurant offers.
Once you select a location, add items to your cart the same way you would at the counter: pick a sandwich or salad, choose your bread or base, and customize toppings. The app and website show prices as you build your order. When you are ready, proceed to checkout, enter your payment information, and choose a pickup time or delivery address.
Pickup orders are usually ready within 15 to 20 minutes. Delivery times depend on your distance from the restaurant and current order volume; the app will show an estimated arrival window when you place your order. Some locations partner with third-party delivery services like DoorDash or Uber Eats, which may have different fees and delivery times than ordering directly through McAlister's.
Sandwich and Salad Options
McAlister's signature sandwiches include the Club (turkey, bacon, and ham), the Italian (Italian meats and cheese), and the Philly Cheese Steak (sliced beef with peppers and onions). Cold sandwiches like the Turkey Club and Ham and Swiss are made fresh to order. Hot sandwiches are toasted and may include melted cheese or warm fillings.
You can also build your own sandwich by choosing a bread type and selecting from available meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments. This option costs less than ordering a named sandwich and lets you control exactly what goes on it.
Salads come with your choice of dressing and protein. The menu typically includes options like the Grilled Chicken Salad and the Turkey Bacon Salad. You can customize salads by adding or removing ingredients, just as you would with sandwiches.
Sides, Drinks, and Extras
Standard sides include potato chips, tortilla chips, cookies, and brownies. Many locations offer a soup of the day, which changes regularly; the restaurant's website or a phone call to your local store will tell you what is available on a given day.
Drinks include soft drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee. Most combo meals come with a drink included. You can also order bottled water or other beverages depending on what your location stocks.
Some McAlister's locations offer catering for groups and events. If you need to order for a meeting, party, or office lunch, call the restaurant directly or check the website for catering menus and pricing.
Payment Methods and Loyalty Programs
McAlister's accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards both in person and online. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are usually available through the app and website.
Many locations participate in a rewards program where you earn points on purchases and can redeem them for free or discounted items. Check the McAlister's website or ask at your local restaurant whether a rewards program is available and how to sign up.
Dietary Information and Allergens
McAlister's provides nutritional information and allergen details on its website. If you have a food allergy or follow a specific diet, review this information before ordering or ask staff at the counter about ingredients in specific items.
The restaurant can accommodate vegetarian orders by building sandwiches or salads without meat. Gluten-free bread is not typically available at most locations, though you can order salads or wraps without bread. Call ahead to confirm what your local McAlister's can offer for dietary restrictions.
Hours, Locations, and Contact Information
McAlister's locations are concentrated in the South and Midwest, with some stores in other regions. Hours vary by location but typically run from late morning through evening, with some locations opening earlier for breakfast.
Use the restaurant locator on the McAlister's website to find the nearest store, see its hours, and get its phone number. You can call to ask about menu items, place a phone order, or confirm whether a specific service like delivery is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order McAlister's for delivery?
Delivery is available at many but not all locations. Use the website or app, enter your address, and the system will show you nearby restaurants that offer delivery. Some locations deliver directly; others use third-party services like DoorDash or Uber Eats, which may charge additional fees.
What bread options does McAlister's have?
Most locations offer white, wheat, honey oat, and rye bread. Some stores may have additional options or seasonal varieties. Check the menu at your specific location or call the restaurant to confirm what is available.
Does McAlister's have vegetarian sandwiches?
McAlister's does not have a dedicated vegetarian sandwich on the standard menu, but you can build a custom sandwich with vegetables, cheese, and condiments. Salads are also a vegetarian option if you choose a non-meat protein or skip the protein entirely.
How long does a pickup order usually take?
Pickup orders are typically ready within 15 to 20 minutes of placing them. During busy times, wait times may be longer. The app or website will give you an estimated ready time when you place your order.
Does McAlister's have a rewards program?
Many locations offer a rewards program where you earn points on purchases. Check the McAlister's website or ask at your local restaurant whether the program is available in your area and how to enroll.