Value Menus & Meal Deals Compared (2026)
Del Taco has the cheapest value menu we track: the typical item costs about $1.79, against $18.99 at Applebee's at the other end of the table. Every value, deal and bundle section from 21 chains is below, with each item's 2026 price.
Cheaper Still: Make It at Home
The best value meal is the one you cook. These three pay for themselves fastest when you cut back on drive-thru runs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which fast food chain has the cheapest value menu in 2026?
Del Taco. The typical item on its Value Menu — 20 Under $2 menu costs about $1.79, the lowest of the 21 value menus we compared. Jack in the Box is next at $2.49.
What is the cheapest item on any value menu?
Value Taco at Del Taco, at about $1.29.
Which chains have a $5 meal deal in 2026?
Dunkin', McDonald's, Dairy Queen, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Burger King, Wendy's and Denny's have a $5 deal on the menu we track: Dunkin's $5 Meal Deal (wrap + medium coffee); McDonald's $5 Meal Deal; Dairy Queen's 2 for $5 Sandwiches; Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen's $5 Sandwich Deal; Burger King's $5 Your Way Meal; Wendy's $5 Biggie Bag; Denny's $5.99 Everyday Value Slam.
Are value menu prices the same at every location?
No. Most chains let franchise owners set their own prices, and value menus are where that shows most: a deal advertised nationally at one price is often a dollar higher in big cities, airports and highway locations. The figures here are the prices that appear most often across U.S. markets.