The Rise of Food Delivery in Ghana: What Ghanaians Are Ordering This Festive Season
Food delivery in Ghana has transformed dramatically in recent years. What began as a few restaurants offering phone-in orders has grown into a booming industry with apps, riders, fast service and thousands of daily deliveries. Platforms like Glovo, Bolt Food, Wolt, Jumia Food (previously), and independent restaurant delivery services have changed how Ghanaians eat — especially in busy cities like Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi.
During November and December, when life becomes even busier with concerts, weddings and festive gatherings, food delivery becomes a lifesaver. Whether for office lunches, late-night cravings or family meals, Ghanaians are turning to delivery more than ever. So what exactly are people ordering?
This article explores why food delivery is rising and the top foods Ghanaians love ordering during the festive season.
1. Why Food Delivery Is Growing Fast in Ghana
a. Busy Lifestyles & Long Work Hours
Urban dwellers often work long hours, face traffic delays, and simply don’t have time to cook daily. Delivery provides convenience.
b. Festive Season Chaos
December in Ghana is packed with Detty December activities — meaning less kitchen time and more reliance on delivery services.
c. Variety of Options
People can now order anything from street food to continental dishes with a few taps.
d. Growing Middle Class & Smartphone Use
More Ghanaians have access to mobile money, smartphones and data, making app-based ordering simple.
e. Restaurant Competition
Restaurants now compete to offer fast, affordable delivery to attract customers.
2. Most Popular Foods Ghanaians Order During the Festive Season
Ghanaian food delivery trends show a blend of local favourites and global dishes. Here are the top 10 most ordered meals during November and December.
1. Jollof Rice & Chicken
No surprise — jollof remains Ghana’s most ordered dish year-round.
Why:
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Familiar
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Filling
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Perfect for office lunches and parties
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Easy to portion and deliver
Grilled chicken, fried chicken and turkey are the top pairings.
2. Fried Rice & Noodles
Fast-food favourites dominate delivery apps.
Includes:
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Chicken fried rice
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Beef noodles
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Shrimp fried rice
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Indomie stir fry
Ghanaians love convenience, and these dishes deliver that.
3. Pizza
Pizza delivery has exploded in the last five years.
Why:
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Perfect for group hangouts
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Consistent quality
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Great for late-night cravings
Pepperoni, chicken supreme and BBQ chicken are top sellers.
4. Shawarma
One of Ghana’s fastest-growing street foods.
Reasons for its popularity:
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Affordable
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Flavorful
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Perfect as a quick dinner or party snack
Chicken shawarma out-sells beef and mixed versions.
5. Burgers & Fries
Especially popular with young adults and office workers.
Includes:
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Chicken burgers
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Beef burgers
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Zinger-style spicy burgers
Often ordered with soft drinks or milkshakes.
6. Local Food Bowls
Increasingly popular, especially among professionals.
Most ordered:
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Waakye bowls
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Ampesi with stew
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Fufu and soup
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Banku and tilapia
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Kenkey with fish
Food delivery apps now partner with local chop bars.
7. Salads & Healthy Bowls
A growing trend among health-conscious Ghanaians.
Popular choices:
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Chicken salad
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Tuna salad
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Mixed vegetable bowls
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Fruit salads
Commonly ordered in offices during weekdays.
8. Chicken Wings & Small Chops
Perfect for house parties, game nights and group events.
Top flavours:
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BBQ
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Spicy Ghana-style
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Honey garlic
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Crispy fried
Often ordered alongside fried rice or chips.
9. Pastries & Breakfast Items
Especially in the mornings.
Common orders:
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Meat pies
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Bread & egg sandwiches
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Crepes
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Doughnuts
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Pancake boxes
Delivery apps now offer dedicated breakfast slots.
10. Drinks & Desserts
December is always full of celebrations.
Popular:
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Milkshakes
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Smoothies
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Sobolo
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Ice cream
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Yoghurt drinks
People often add drinks to meal orders for convenience.
3. Challenges in Ghana’s Food Delivery Space
a. Traffic delays
Delivery times can vary greatly.
b. High delivery fees
Peak season increases rider demand.
c. Food packaging issues
Some dishes spill or lose heat during transport.
d. Limited coverage areas
Outside major cities, delivery options may be fewer.
4. The Future of Food Delivery in Ghana
The industry is expanding rapidly. Expect to see:
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More local restaurants offering in-house delivery
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Improved packaging solutions
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Subscription-based meal plans
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Faster delivery times
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More healthy options on menus
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Cashless-only delivery systems
Food delivery is becoming part of everyday life in Ghana.
Conclusion
Food delivery in Ghana is rising faster than ever, especially during the festive season when people are busy celebrating, traveling and working. From jollof and waakye to pizza, shawarma and noodles, Ghanaians love the convenience and variety delivery offers. As technology grows and restaurants innovate, food delivery will continue shaping how Ghanaians eat — making December deliciously effortless.