McAlister's Deli is a sandwich chain with locations across the United States

McAlister's Deli operates as a fast-casual restaurant chain where you order at a counter and food arrives at your table. The chain has roughly 400 locations, mostly in the South and Midwest, though the exact number changes as new locations open and close. You can find a McAlister's near you by searching their website or using their location finder tool, which shows hours, phone numbers, and whether each restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, or delivery.

The restaurant is known for customizable sandwiches built to order, along with sides like chips, cookies, and drinks. Unlike some chains, McAlister's does not have a single standardized menu across all locations — individual franchises may add or remove items based on local demand and supplier availability. This means the sandwich options, pricing, and special items you see at one location may differ from another.

Key Takeaways

  • McAlister's locations are concentrated in the South and Midwest, and you can search their website to find the nearest restaurant with current hours and phone number.
  • You order at the counter and can customize sandwiches by choosing bread, meat, cheese, and toppings, though options vary by location.
  • Pricing varies between locations and changes over time, so calling ahead or checking the app will show you what a specific sandwich costs near you.
  • Many McAlister's locations offer delivery through third-party apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats, though availability depends on your area.
  • The chain runs occasional promotions and discounts through its mobile app and email list, which you can join on their website.

How to order and customize your sandwich

When you walk into McAlister's, you approach the counter where staff take your order. You choose a sandwich from their menu — options typically include turkey, roast beef, ham, and chicken — and then select your bread type, which usually includes white, wheat, honey oat, or a wrap. You then add or remove toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and various spreads and sauces.

The customization process is straightforward: you tell the staff what you want, they build it in front of you, and you pay at the register. If you are unsure what is available or want to know about ingredients for dietary reasons, ask the staff member taking your order — they can tell you what is in stock that day and what substitutions are possible.

Pricing and what affects the cost

McAlister's sandwich prices range widely depending on the meat you choose, the location, and when you order. A basic sandwich typically costs between $7 and $12, though premium meats or specialty sandwiches may cost more. Sides like chips, cookies, and drinks are priced separately and add $2 to $5 to your total.

Because McAlister's is a franchise system, each location sets its own prices within guidelines. A sandwich that costs $9 at one location may cost $10 at another, depending on local rent, labor costs, and supplier prices. The best way to know what you will pay is to call the specific location you plan to visit or check their menu on the app if they have one.

Delivery and takeout options

Most McAlister's locations offer takeout at the counter — you order, wait for your food, and leave. Many also partner with delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, which means you can order through those apps and have food delivered to your home. However, not every location uses every service, and delivery availability depends on your address.

If you want to know whether your nearest McAlister's delivers, search for the restaurant on DoorDash or Uber Eats by address. You can also call the location directly and ask which delivery services they work with. Delivery fees and wait times vary by service and location, so compare options before ordering.

Promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs

McAlister's runs promotions throughout the year, often advertised through their mobile app and email newsletter. These may include discounts on specific sandwiches, combo deals, or limited-time menu items. To see current offers, read the McAlister's app or visit their website and sign up for email updates.

The chain does not have a traditional points-based loyalty program across all locations, though some individual franchises may run their own local promotions. Checking the app or calling ahead before you visit is the most reliable way to find out what deals are running at your specific location.

Dietary options and ingredient information

McAlister's menu includes options for different diets. You can build vegetarian sandwiches using cheese and vegetables, and many locations offer turkey or chicken for lower-fat choices. The chain also serves salads and sides that may fit various dietary needs.

If you have food allergies or need to avoid specific ingredients, ask the staff when you order. They can tell you what is in each meat, cheese, and spread, and whether items are prepared in ways that avoid cross-contact with allergens. Because preparation methods vary by location, it is important to speak directly with the staff at the restaurant you are visiting rather than relying on general information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order McAlister's online or through an app?

Many locations accept online orders through their website or mobile app, though this varies by franchise. Some locations only take orders in person or by phone. Check the website for your nearest location to see if online ordering is available, or call the restaurant directly to ask.

Does McAlister's have a kids menu?

Most locations offer smaller sandwich options and combo meals that work for children, though a formal kids menu varies by location. Call ahead or ask staff when you arrive to see what sizes and options are available for younger diners.

Are there vegetarian sandwich options?

Yes. You can order sandwiches with cheese and vegetables like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on any bread type. Staff can also tell you about spreads and sauces that work well with vegetarian sandwiches.

What should I do if I have a food allergy?

Tell the staff member taking your order about your allergy before they build your sandwich. They can explain what ingredients are in each item and whether they can prepare your food in a way that avoids cross-contact. Because procedures differ by location, speak directly with the staff at the restaurant you are visiting.

How do I find the McAlister's location nearest to me?

Visit the McAlister's website and use their location finder tool. Enter your address or zip code, and the tool will show nearby restaurants with their hours, phone numbers, and services offered. You can also search for McAlister's on Google Maps to see locations and read recent reviews.