How can international students order food delivery services in China? (Includes tips on new user bonuses and notes)

Chinese food, Western food, desserts, bubble tea — in China, food delivery satisfies virtually every craving, delivered to your door. For international students still settling in, delivery apps are the most comforting companion during the transition period. The two mainstream platforms are Meituan and Ele.me / Taobao Shangou; master one and the other comes naturally.

1. Your First Order in Four Steps
Step 1: Download and register Search for "Meituan" (美团) or "Ele.me / Taobao Shangou" (饿了么/淘宝闪购) in your app store, download, and sign up with your Chinese phone number.
Step 2: Set your delivery address The app locates you automatically, but you can edit the address manually. Make sure it clearly states your university, dormitory building, or apartment — down to the room number — so the rider can find you.
Step 3: Browse restaurants and pick your dishes Browse by cuisine category, or filter by sales volume / ratings — restaurants with high ratings and big order volumes are usually safe bets. Add dishes to your cart as you go.
Step 4: Check out and pay Submit your order and pay with WeChat Pay or Alipay (link your bank card first — see our payment guide). Then sit back while the rider brings your food. The app shows real-time delivery progress, including the rider's location on the map.

2. Insider Tips
New-user coupons: first-time registration usually comes with generous vouchers. Claim them before placing your first order;
Order notes: use the备注 (note) field to add requests like "less spicy," "extra vinegar," or "one set of cutlery" — restaurants are happy to oblige;
Can't read the menu? Most dishes come with real photos, so ordering by picture rarely goes wrong. A translation app fills in the gaps.

3. Order Together, Save Together
Both platforms run constant "spend-and-save" promotions. Ordering with roommates splits the delivery fee and lets everyone taste more dishes — it is also one of the most classic icebreakers in international student circles.

FAQ
Q1: Can I register without a Chinese phone number?
No. Sign-up requires a Chinese number for verification codes, so get your SIM card sorted first after arrival.

Q2: Can food be delivered directly to my dorm?
Most universities allow delivery to the dormitory entrance or a designated pickup point near the gate — check your university's policy, and write your building number clearly in the address.

Q3: What payment methods are accepted?
Both WeChat Pay and Alipay work once your Chinese bank card is linked (see our payment guide in this series).