It’s easy to think that grabbing a packaged lunch from the grocery store is a wallet-friendly move. But sometimes, these ready-to-eat options can cost more than sitting down at a local restaurant. With convenience often comes a hefty markup, and many shoppers don’t realize just how high the price tag can climb. Whether it’s the branding, the packaging, or the specialty ingredients, some packaged lunches are surprisingly expensive. If you’re looking to save money, it’s important to know which items to watch out for. Here’s a look at 11 packaged lunches that cost more than restaurant meals, so you can make smarter choices for your midday meal.
1. Gourmet Salad Kits
Salad kits with fancy greens, cheese, nuts, and premium dressings can run up to $12 per serving. That’s about what you’d pay for a fresh salad at a sit-down café, but the store version often comes in a plastic clamshell and is missing the fresh touch. When you factor in the cost per ounce, these salads are among the packaged lunches that cost more than restaurant meals.
2. Sushi Bento Boxes
Grocery store sushi has improved over the years, but so have the prices. A small bento box with a few pieces of sushi and a side can easily cost $14 or more. That’s more than a lunch special at many sushi restaurants, where you’ll get freshly made rolls and miso soup included.
3. Organic Grain Bowls
Packaged organic grain bowls with quinoa, roasted veggies, and trendy sauces often exceed $10 per bowl. While they’re marketed as healthy and convenient, you could enjoy a made-to-order grain bowl at a nearby eatery for the same price or less, often with larger portions and more customization.
4. Premium Protein Snack Packs
Snack packs featuring sliced meats, fancy cheeses, nuts, and dried fruit can cost upwards of $8–$10. For just a few bites, that’s more expensive than many restaurant appetizers. These packaged lunches cost more than restaurant meals, especially when you compare the price to building your own snack plate at home or ordering from a happy hour menu.
5. Vegan Wraps and Sandwiches
Plant-based wraps and sandwiches from the refrigerator section often carry a $9–$13 price tag. That’s higher than many freshly made vegan options at local cafés or sandwich shops, where you can also request extra toppings or sauces. While the convenience is tempting, the cost can be hard to justify.
6. Gluten-Free Meal Boxes
Gluten-free packaged lunches—think pasta salads or rice meals—can cost $11 or more. Restaurants with gluten-free menus often serve similar options for less, and the portions tend to be more generous. The packaging and specialty ingredients drive up the price, but the value isn’t always there.
7. Artisanal Cheese and Charcuterie Packs
Small cheese and charcuterie packs are marketed as a gourmet lunch for one, but they often cost $13–$16. For that price, you could share a larger platter at a wine bar or restaurant. The convenience of a grab-and-go option comes at a significant premium, making these a classic example of packaged lunches that cost more than restaurant meals.
8. International Cuisine Bowls
Packaged Thai, Indian, or Mediterranean bowls can cost $11–$15. Many local restaurants offer lunch specials for less, with fresher ingredients and more authentic flavors. The grocery store versions may travel better, but they don’t always satisfy like a restaurant meal does.
9. Keto or Paleo Lunch Kits
Keto and paleo meal kits are trendy, but their prices are steep—often topping $12 per kit. The portions are small, and you may not feel full afterward. If you’re following a special diet, consider meal prepping at home or checking out affordable options at health-focused restaurants instead.
10. Cold Noodle Bowls
Cold noodle salads with veggies and protein are popular in grocery store fridges, but expect to pay $10–$13 each. That price rivals many noodle houses, where you’ll get freshly cooked noodles, hot broth, and a bigger serving. The convenience is nice, but the value is questionable.
11. High-End Frozen Entrées
Frozen lunches from premium brands can cost $8–$12 per meal. While they promise restaurant-quality taste at home or in the office, the reality is that you’re often paying more than you would for a hot lunch special at a local diner. Microwaving your meal may be easy, but it’s not always the best deal for your budget.
How to Avoid Overpaying for Packaged Lunches
The next time you’re thinking about grabbing one of these packaged lunches that cost more than restaurant meals, look closely at the price tag. Consider how much you’re getting—and whether you could find a better deal by eating out or prepping your own lunch. Sometimes, the convenience is worth it, but often, you’re paying a premium for packaging and marketing rather than true value.
If you’re looking for ways to save, try shopping for ingredients and assembling your own lunches. With a bit of planning, you can skip overpriced packaged lunches and enjoy meals that are both tasty and affordable.
Have you noticed any packaged lunches that cost more than eating out? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
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