150+ Takeout and Delivery Order Update SMS Messages for Restaurants

: 11 March 2025

150+ Takeout and Delivery Order Update SMS Messages for Restaurants

: 11 March 2025

Enhance customer satisfaction with timely takeout and delivery updates! From order confirmations to ETA notifications, these 150+ SMS templates will help your restaurant improve communication, reduce confusion, and ensure a seamless ordering experience.

The demand for takeout and delivery in the restaurant industry has skyrocketed in recent years. From quick lunch orders to full family dinners, customers rely on timely, accurate, and reassuring communication about their food—especially when it’s on the move. SMS marketing (and transactional texting) helps restaurants bridge the gap between the kitchen and the customer in real time. By offering clear updates—whether an order is confirmed, in the kitchen, out for delivery, or ready for pickup— you enhance the customer experience, reduce the likelihood of confusion or complaints, and build trust that can lead to repeat business.

In this blog post, we’ve compiled 150+ SMS message templates designed specifically for takeout and delivery scenarios. We’ll walk through best practices for timing, tone, personalization, and compliance, ensuring you can keep customers in the loop with minimal effort.

Whether you run a small neighborhood cafe or a chain with multiple locations, a well-crafted text can make the difference between a seamless meal-on-the-go and an unsatisfactory customer experience. Let these templates serve as a springboard for your unique brand voice, so you can fine-tune each message to keep your diners informed—and excited—for that next delicious delivery or easy pickup meal.

Why Order Update SMS Matters for Takeout & Delivery

Customers appreciate knowing where their order stands at every stage—reducing anxiety and cutting down on “Where is my food?” calls.

Efficiency & Professionalism
Automated or semi-automated texts save staff time, allowing them to focus on food prep and customer service rather than constantly answering phone inquiries.
Reduced Errors
Clear, written updates help clarify any details—like delivery address or specific order instructions—so you can rectify issues quickly before it’s too late.
Increased Customer Satisfaction
Feeling “in the know” fosters trust. If a delay occurs, honest communication can lessen frustration and retain loyalty.
Opportunity for Upsells
While primarily transactional, order update texts can subtly remind customers of add-ons, loyalty perks, or future discounts.

Best Practices for Takeout & Delivery SMS

Keep It Brief & Clear: Provide essential details like order number, expected wait time, or pickup instructions.
Use Personalization: If possible, address the customer by name or include relevant order details (e.g., “Your pepperoni pizza”).
Include the Restaurant Name: Always remind them who’s texting. “ABC Diner” or “[Your Restaurant]:” ensures no confusion.
Offer a Quick Way to Contact Support: A phone number or “Reply HELP” directive can help fix issues on the fly.
Comply with Regulations: In the U.S., ensure you have permission to text. Provide an opt-out if sending promotional messages alongside updates.

150+ Takeout & Delivery Order Update SMS Templates

To make navigation easier, we’ve categorized these into 10 main sections:

Order Confirmation (1–15)
Order In-Kitchen / Being Prepared (16–30)
Driver Assigned / Out for Delivery (31–45)
Pickup Ready (46–60)
Delay or Issue Notifications (61–75)
Contactless or Special Instructions (76–90)
Upsells & Cross-Sells (91–105)
Feedback & Follow-up (106–120)
Thank You & Loyalty Prompts (121–135)
Miscellaneous Scenarios (136–150)

1. Order Confirmation (1–15)

“Hi [Name], thanks for ordering from [Restaurant]! Your order (#1234) is confirmed. We’ll let you know when it’s on its way.”
“[Restaurant] here: Great news, your order #5678 is confirmed. Expect a delicious delivery soon!”
“Hello [Name], we received your order (#2468) at [Restaurant]. Stay tuned for prep and delivery updates!”
“Craving satisfied! [Restaurant] has your order #4321. We’ll notify you once your meal is being prepared.”
“Order #9999 confirmed at [Restaurant]. Thanks for choosing us—food happiness is just a few steps away!”
“Hey [Name], we’ve got your order (#123)! You can relax now; we’ll handle the tasty part.”
“Your takeout from [Restaurant] is locked in (#9876). Thank you for dining with us from home!”
“Order confirmed: #5555 at [Restaurant]. We’ll have it fresh and ready for you ASAP.”
“We see you’re hungry, [Name]! Order #1112 is confirmed. Estimated time to door? Check your next update.”
“Thanks for ordering from [Restaurant]. Your order (#2020) is in queue. We appreciate your business!”
“[Restaurant]: Order #3030 confirmed. Keep an eye on your phone for more updates soon.”
“We got it, [Name]! Your order #444 at [Restaurant] is a go. Next stop—our kitchen!”
“Order #7777 is on file. Thank you for choosing [Restaurant]. We’ll text again when your meal’s cooking.”
“Your [Restaurant] order (#8888) is officially confirmed. Dinner is one step closer!”
“We can’t wait for you to enjoy [Restaurant] at home, [Name]! Order #9990 confirmed—hang tight.”

2. Order In-Kitchen / Being Prepared (16–30)

“Good news, [Name]! Your order #1234 is now in the kitchen at [Restaurant]. We’ll let you know when it’s ready.”
“Order #5678: We’re preparing your meal right now. Smells amazing already!”
“[Restaurant] update: Our chefs are cooking up your order #2468. Can’t wait to serve you soon.”
“Your meal is in progress at [Restaurant]! Order #4321 is being cooked fresh—thanks for your patience.”
“[Name], your order (#9999) is fired up in our kitchen. Next message: out for delivery!”
“We’ve started on your order #123. Hang tight while our chefs work their magic.”
“[Restaurant]: The kitchen is busy perfecting your order #9876. You’ll love every bite!”
“Heads up! Order #5555 is now being prepared. Thank you for letting [Restaurant] feed you today.”
“Chefs at [Restaurant] are on it! Your order #1112 is sizzling away. Next stop: your doorstep or pickup.”
“We’re whipping up your feast! Order #2020 is in the works—get those taste buds ready.”
“Cooking in progress: #3030 at [Restaurant]. We’ll share pickup/delivery details soon.”
“[Name], meal #444 is halfway to greatness. We’re adding finishing touches now!”
“[Restaurant] status: Your order #7777 is in the pan. Not long to go!”
“Our cooks have started on order #8888, [Name]. Expect a text about your pickup or dispatch.”
“Freshly made just for you! Order #9990 is now being prepared with care at [Restaurant].”

3. Driver Assigned / Out for Delivery (31–45)

“[Name], your order #1234 is out for delivery! Our driver’s on the way—see you soon.”
“Order #5678 from [Restaurant] has left the building. Watch for a [Delivery App / Driver Name] arrival soon!”
“Your meal’s en route, [Name]! Order #2468 will arrive momentarily—hot and fresh.”
“[Restaurant] update: Driver’s on the road with order #4321. Expect a knock on your door soon!”
“Order #9999 is on the move. Keep your phone close—delivery is almost there!”
“[Name], your order #123 is out for delivery from [Restaurant]. Bon appétit in a few!”
“[Restaurant]: The driver is heading to you with order #9876. Get ready to dig in!”
“On its way: #5555 from [Restaurant]. Our delivery partner is traveling safely to you.”
“We just dispatched your order #1112, [Name]. Should arrive within 15-20 minutes, traffic permitting!”
“[Restaurant] driver is en route with order #2020. Thank you for waiting patiently.”
“Your dinner is rolling! Order #3030 left our restaurant and is heading to your address.”
“[Name], order #444 is out the door. Keep an eye out for [Delivery Driver / Courier].”
“Hungry no more—order #7777 is being delivered right now. Thanks for choosing [Restaurant]!”
“[Restaurant] on the way: Your order #8888 is traveling to your location. Bon appétit soon!”
“Order #9990 is out for delivery, [Name]. Thanks for your order and enjoy your meal!”

4. Pickup Ready (46–60)

“Hi [Name], your order #1234 is ready for pickup at [Restaurant]. Swing by anytime!”
“Good news—order #5678 is all set. Come grab it at our pickup counter. Thank you!”
“[Restaurant]: Your order #2468 is bagged and ready. We look forward to seeing you soon.”
“Pickup alert for #4321! Stop by [Restaurant] to collect your fresh meal.”
“[Name], order #9999 is packed! Head over to [Restaurant], no waiting needed.”
“Time to eat! Your order #123 is ready at our to-go station. We appreciate your business.”
“[Restaurant] here—order #9876 is done. Please pick up whenever you’re ready.”
“Your order #5555 is waiting at [Restaurant]. Thanks for choosing us for takeout!”
“All set, [Name]! Order #1112 is hot and ready for pickup. Safe travels.”
“[Restaurant]: #2020 is prepped and waiting at our front counter. Enjoy your meal soon!”
“Come get it! Order #3030 is finished. Thank you for letting [Restaurant] serve you.”
“[Name], your order #444 is complete and ready. Our pickup desk is open now.”
“Meal #7777 awaits! Pick it up at [Restaurant]. We appreciate your prompt arrival.”
“Your fresh fix is waiting—order #8888 is ready at the to-go area. Bon appétit!”
“[Restaurant] reminder: order #9990 is ready for you. Swing by and enjoy!”

5. Delay or Issue Notifications (61–75)

“[Name], we apologize—your order #1234 is delayed due to high volume. We expect an extra 15 minutes. Thank you for understanding.”
“We’re sorry, but traffic is causing a delay on order #5678. New ETA is 20 minutes. Thanks for your patience!”
“[Restaurant]: We had a small kitchen delay on order #2468. Expect it 10 minutes later than planned. We appreciate your patience.”
“[Name], order #4321 encountered a brief hold-up. We’re rushing to complete it. Thanks for hanging in there.”
“We regret a slight delay on #9999—our driver is stuck in traffic. We’ll update you if more changes arise.”
“Heads up: order #123 is running 10 minutes late due to ingredient restock. Apologies for any inconvenience.”
“[Restaurant] alert: We’re short-staffed tonight. Expect an extra 15 min on order #9876. Thank you for waiting.”
“Your order #5555 is facing a small holdup. We’ll knock $5 off for the inconvenience—hope that helps!”
“We’re sincerely sorry, [Name]. Order #1112 is delayed. We aim to have it ready in 20 minutes.”
“[Restaurant]: We’ve run out of one item on order #2020. Would you like a replacement or refund? Reply ASAP.”
“Important: order #3030 item is out of stock. Let us know if you’d like a substitution—reply yes or no.”
“Our driver had a minor accident—no injuries, but order #444 will arrive later. We’ll keep you posted.”
“We apologize—kitchen equipment glitch is affecting order #7777’s prep time. We’re working to fix it.”
“[Name], order #8888 got delayed. We’re including a free dessert for the trouble. Thank you for your understanding.”
“Your order #9990 is behind schedule, but rest assured we’re expediting it. Sorry for any inconvenience!”

6. Contactless or Special Instructions (76–90)

“[Name], your order #1234 is set for contactless delivery. Our driver will leave it at your door—thanks!”
“[Restaurant]: For your contactless pickup #5678, call us upon arrival, and we’ll bring it to your car.”
“Contactless preference noted, [Name]. Order #2468 will be dropped off at your front porch.”
“We see you requested no doorbell ring. Driver will place order #4321 at your door quietly.”
“Your contactless takeout #9999 is ready. Just pop your trunk—our staff will place it inside.”
“[Name], for curbside #123, park in the designated spot. We’ll deliver your meal to your window.”
“[Restaurant]: Order #9876 includes a side of sauce on the side, per your request. Done!”
“We’ve noted your gluten-free preference on #5555. Please verify upon pickup—safety first.”
“Your special request for no onions in order #1112 is confirmed. Thanks for letting us know in advance!”
“[Restaurant] acknowledges your ‘extra napkins’ instruction for #2020. We’ve got them included.”
“[Name], your instructions to leave the food with front desk are confirmed for order #3030.”
“We see your note for a baby asleep. Order #444 driver will text upon arrival instead of knocking.”
“For a safer contactless experience, we’ll text once we leave order #7777 at your doorstep.”
“Thank you for specifying ‘steak well-done’ in #8888. Our chef is on it—no surprises for you!”
“We have your special garnish request on #9990. Let us know if there’s anything else you need.”

7. Upsells & Cross-Sells (91–105)

“By the way, [Name], craving dessert? Reply ‘DESSERT’ to add a slice of our famous cake to order #1234.”
“Order #5678 is nearly ready. Want to add a side or drink? Reply YES for our quick options.”
“[Restaurant]: While we prep your meal #2468, consider our new caramel shake. Reply ‘SHAKE’ if interested!”
“Did you forget a side? Order #4321 can still accommodate an extra salad or fries. Reply to let us know.”
“Time for a sweet treat, [Name]? We can include a brownie with #9999. Just reply ‘BROWNIE’!”
“We see you love spicy wings. Add 6 more wings for half price to #123? Reply WINGS if yes.”
“[Restaurant] note: Want to upgrade to a family-sized portion on #9876? Reply ‘FAMILY’ for pricing.”
“Your order #5555 pairs perfectly with a soda 4-pack. Reply ‘DRINKS’ to add for just $3 more!”
“Hungry for extras? Add an appetizer to #1112. Our top pick: mozzarella sticks—reply MOZZ to confirm.”
“[Name], how about dessert for #2020? We recommend our cheesecake. Reply CHEESE to add it now.”
“[Restaurant]: You might love our new loaded fries with #3030. Reply LOADED if you’d like to add.”
“Extend your meal? We can upgrade order #444 to a combo with sides + dessert. Reply COMBO.”
“For just $5 more, get a large portion on #7777. Reply LARGE if you’re extra hungry.”
“Craving extra sauce for #8888? We offer a variety—reply SAUCE if you want to add any.”
“Hey [Name], we have a 2-for-1 on drinks. Reply DRINK2 if you’d like to double up for your #9990!”

8. Feedback & Follow-up (106–120)

“We hope you enjoyed your delivery, [Name]! Share feedback on order #1234: [Short Link]. Thanks!”
“[Restaurant]: Was everything in order #5678 up to par? Let us know with a quick reply or [Survey Link].”
“Thanks for choosing us, [Name]! Rate your order #2468 from 1–5. We appreciate your input.”
“Hey, how did we do with #4321? We’re always looking to improve—reply with any thoughts!”
“We want your opinion! Did you enjoy your meal #9999? A quick reply helps us serve you better.”
“[Restaurant]: If #123 was tasty, leave us a short review on Google? We’d be grateful—[Link].”
“Your feedback matters. Let us know how #9876 turned out. If anything was off, we’ll fix it next time!”
“We value your voice, [Name]. Rate order #5555 or comment on [Review Link]. Thanks for dining with us.”
“[Restaurant] follow-up: Satisfied with #1112? A moment of your time in a review helps our small business thrive.”
“Enjoy the meal #2020? Let us know how we did—text back or fill out a quick form: [Link].”
“Thank you for your purchase! If #3030 rocked your taste buds, please mention us to friends or on social media.”
“[Name], any feedback on #444 helps us get better. We read every response carefully—thanks in advance.”
“Hope the food was great! Rate #7777 from 1–5 by replying to this text, so we can keep improving.”
“We appreciate your order #8888. Let us know if we earned 5 stars or how we can do better next time.”
“Thanks for choosing [Restaurant]. Love #9990 or not? Share your thoughts: [Review Platform Link].”

9. Thank You & Loyalty Prompts (121–135)

“Thanks again, [Name]! We appreciate your support. Enjoy a loyalty point bonus for order #1234.”
“[Restaurant]: We love feeding you, [Name]! Earn double points on #5678 if you order again this week.”
“You’re awesome, [Name]. Thank you for ordering #2468. We hope to cook for you soon!”
“Gratitude from [Restaurant]! Because you chose us for #4321, here’s a 10% off code for your next meal.”
“Order #9999 complete! As a token of thanks, we’re adding 5 loyalty points to your account.”
“We’re honored to serve you, [Name]. Enjoy a free side on your next order after #123—our treat!”
“Thanks for your continuous support! #9876 also qualifies you for our loyalty tier upgrade. Check your email for details.”
“[Restaurant] appreciates you. Next time you order after #5555, save $5 with code THANKS5.”
“Because you keep dining with us, [Name], claim 2x loyalty points on your next meal beyond #1112.”
“Hats off to you—your order #2020 helps local business thrive. Check out our loyalty app for more perks.”
“We hope your #3030 was perfect. As a thanks, enjoy ‘BUY1GET1’ on appetizers next time. Just mention BOGO.”
“[Restaurant] says thanks! #444 qualifies you for a surprise discount next week. Stay tuned for details.”
“Our gratitude is endless, [Name]. After #7777, we want to see you again—use code RETURN15 for 15% off.”
“Order #8888 complete—our heartfelt thanks. Earn extra points if you reorder within 7 days.”
“You could’ve chosen anyone, but you chose [Restaurant]. We’re grateful! Keep an eye out for a loyalty reward soon.”

10. Miscellaneous Scenarios (136–150)

“Just a friendly reminder: you left items in your cart, [Name]. Finalize your order and we’ll start cooking!”
“[Restaurant] notice: Your scheduled delivery for #5678 is at 6 PM tomorrow. Let us know if anything changes.”
“We see you pre-ordered #2468 for next Monday. We’ll confirm again the night before—thank you for planning ahead!”
“Hello, [Name]. Our driver can’t find your address for #4321. Please call or text us with more details.”
“Driver at the door! No answer for #9999—please let us know if you’re still available to receive.”
“[Restaurant]: We’re out of [Item], so we upgraded you at no cost. Thanks for understanding!”
“Your order #123 is finishing early, [Name]. You can pick up or expect delivery 10 min sooner!”
“[Name], your pre-payment for #9876 was successful. Thanks for trusting [Restaurant]. We’ll deliver soon.”
“We noticed you placed #5555 as pickup but left your phone number incorrectly. Please confirm at this link.”
“[Restaurant] alert: If you have allergies, double-check order #1112. Contact us if you see an error.”
“Time-limited special: reorder #2020 in the next 3 days for 15% off! Just reply REORDER to start.”
“[Name], we updated our menu. If you’d like to modify #3030, reply within 5 minutes. We’re flexible!”
“Congrats on your 10th order with [Restaurant]! #444 qualifies you for a ‘thank you’ hamper at pickup.”
“Our system shows an incomplete address for #7777. Please confirm location to avoid delays.”
“Need cutlery or napkins, [Name]? We assumed no. Reply ‘YES’ if you want us to add any to #8888.”

Implementation Tips

Automate through Order Stages
Most modern point-of-sale or delivery management systems can send SMS automatically at each stage (order confirmation, prepping, out for delivery, etc.). Set up triggers in your software for these 150+ messages, and let the system do the rest.

Use Merge Fields
Dynamically include the customer’s name, order ID, or item details. This personal touch enhances clarity and shows you value their individual order.
Include Estimated Times
If your system or staff can estimate times, mention them. For example, “expect your meal in ~30 minutes.” This helps manage expectations and reduce follow-up calls.
Be Consistent but Flexible
Keep the brand voice unified across messages. However, for unique situations (allergies, refunds, major delays), have special templates ready to keep communications calm, apologetic where necessary, and solution-focused.
Solicit Reviews or Feedback
After the meal arrives or is picked up, direct them to a short link or a rating system. This is prime time to capture feedback while the experience is fresh.
Stay Compliant
If you mix promotional content in your order updates, ensure you have the customer’s explicit consent. A purely transactional message typically doesn’t need an opt-out, but if you cross-sell or mention special deals, you may need to provide an unsubscribe link.

Takeout and delivery have become integral to many restaurants’ success, and a well-orchestrated SMS communication strategy can transform the entire process. By providing timely updates—from order confirmation to final pickup or delivery—your diners feel confident that their meals are handled with care and efficiency. The 150+ templates listed here offer countless variations to cover nearly every scenario, from straightforward updates to delay notifications and upsells.

When you automate or semi-automate these messages, you free your staff’s time and empower customers with real-time insights. Happy, well-informed customers are more likely to become repeat patrons, leave positive reviews, and spread word-of-mouth about your reliability. Just remember: clarity, personalization, and respect for your customers’ preferences (including any promotional opt-outs) are key. With these best practices and a robust set of ready-to-use texts, you can deliver not just great food, but also a top-tier customer experience that keeps them coming back for more.