If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through Uber Eats, stomach rumbling and eyes darting between pizza sizes, you’re not alone.
But what if we told you that the size you’re paying for might not be the size you’re actually getting?
That’s exactly what’s been happening at a popular Italian eatery on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and it’s left locals both amused and outraged.
Let’s set the scene: Valentine Woodfire Pizzeria in Narraweena is a beloved spot for many, known for its delicious woodfired pizzas.
But recently, a sharp-eyed local took to the Northern Beaches Community Facebook group to share a discovery that’s got everyone talking. According to the post, while the restaurant only makes one size of pizza—a generous 13-inch ‘family size’—their Uber Eats menu tells a different story.
On the app, customers are presented with three options: medium, large, and family size, each with a different price tag.
The catch? No matter which size you order, you get the same pizza every time. The price difference isn’t small, either: a medium Potenza pizza is $24.90, with the large and family sizes costing $4 and $5 more, respectively. Yet, if you order directly from the restaurant, the same pizza is just $23.90.
‘It’s either genius or a glitch with a PhD in sneaky,’ the original poster quipped, sharing screenshots as proof.
They went on to advise fellow pizza lovers to ‘pick the cheapest ‘size’ (aka the only one that exists) and enjoy your pizza without feeling like you’ve been scammed.’
The revelation came about by accident. The poster explained that after switching from ordering directly to using Uber Eats, they decided to try a mix of sizes—only to find every pizza was identical.
A quick phone call to the restaurant confirmed the truth: there’s only one size, no matter what the app says.
The reaction online was swift and passionate. Some commenters were furious, calling for the business to be reported to fair trading and vowing never to order again.
‘This is outrageous,’ one wrote. ‘Don’t go there if they are that dishonest. So wrong!!!’ said another.
But not everyone pointed the finger at the pizzeria. Many blamed Uber Eats for the confusion, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses directly.
‘Thank you for the public service announcement, this tip is greatly appreciated. I concur, the pizzas are delicious but this is very deceptive from Uber Eats,’ one person commented.
Others shared their own experiences of being charged more for the same food on delivery apps, with one savvy diner saving almost $40 by ordering direct.
So, what’s really going on here? Uber Eats told Kidspot that restaurants set their own prices on the platform, meaning the discrepancy could be down to the business itself.
At the time of writing, the listing had been updated to show just two sizes: medium and large, with the large costing $4 more.
The bigger picture: Are delivery apps costing you more than you think?
This story is more than just a quirky local scandal—it’s a reminder of the hidden costs and potential pitfalls of using food delivery apps.
While they offer convenience, it’s not uncommon for menu prices to be higher than in-store, and for additional service and delivery fees to sneak onto your bill.
In some cases, as we’ve seen here, you might even be paying extra for a product that doesn’t exist.
For restaurants, the fees charged by delivery platforms can be steep—sometimes up to 30 per cent of the order value.
This often leads to higher prices on the app to offset the cost, meaning you pay more and the business earns less.
Ordering direct, whether by phone or through the restaurant’s own website, is almost always cheaper for you and better for them.
How to avoid getting caught out
Check the restaurant’s own menu: Before ordering through an app, look up the restaurant’s website or call them directly to compare prices and options.
Ask about sizes and portions: If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to call and clarify what you’re getting for your money.
Support local businesses directly: Whenever possible, order straight from the source. You’ll often get better value, and your money goes further for the business.
Be wary of ‘phantom’ menu items: If something seems off—like multiple sizes for a dish that only comes in one—trust your instincts and double-check.
Have your say
Have you ever been caught out by a sneaky menu trick on a delivery app? Do you prefer to order direct, or is the convenience of Uber Eats too good to pass up? Share your stories and tips in the comments below—let’s help each other make smarter choices and keep our local favourites thriving!
And remember: next time you’re craving pizza, it might pay to pick up the phone instead of your phone!
Also read: Kindness for free food? Viral Uber Eats hack splits opinion
