Insider's Secrets - Tips to Getting the Best Deal on Pizza

After several years in the restaurant business and a few stints in pizza places, I've learned how to get the best possible price when ordering pizza for carry-out or delivery. I once had a co-worker who said, "Anyone who buys pizza without a coupon is crazy!" Well, call me "crazy," because I frequently find the coupons do not suit my needs. Usually, pizza coupons offer discounts for a larger volume than one or two adults could (or should) consume in a single sitting. Here are some tips to get better deals and service when ordering pizza.

Coupons - The pizza coupon is a valuable tool to getting a great deal for a family or larger group. It is also a means to increase sales for the restaurant. If your coupon has expired recently, check to see if the pizza shop will still honor it. Most restaurants allow a few days or even weeks past the expiration date or you may still be offered a discount since you missed out on their coupon offer. If the coupon is for a competitor, ask if they'll honor it. If they want your business, they'll find a way to make you happy with the cost.

No Coupon? Ask About Specials! - If you don't have a coupon, don't despair. Ask your order taker if there are "any specials." Unlike other types of restaurants that have a "special" to get rid of products before they spoil, pizza shops use them to introduce new menu items and increase sales. Many pizza establishments will also have Manager's Specials. These may be for a particular meal period like a lunch special or a certain day of the week that business is slow.

Location, location... - While you are asking about specials, check on "local discounts" or "business discounts". If your delivery will be to a large business complex, a shopping center, hospital or other institution, the pizza place may have an automatic discount available. The pizza manager has this type of bargain to insure sales at the location on a regular basis. It is more likely that multiple orders can be sent together, which is good for the delivery driver and the restaurant. This type of deal will usually be a percentage off on the total order.