Fast food has long been a go-to for budget-conscious diners seeking quick and affordable meals. However, recent price hikes at many restaurants have left many customers feeling frustrated and outpriced. There are whole Reddit threads and even subreddits dedicated to skyrocketing prices and a phenomenon known as “shrinkflation,” in which price tags rise while food quality and size shrinks. A recent post on the Wendy’s Reddit has sparked a conversation around the prices at this fast-food giant, in particular.
The post, titled “Unreal” complete with an eye-roll emoji, shows a staggering price tag on a simple combo. Find all the details below.
Wendy’s customers angered over $13 combo
One Reddit user recently shared a photo of a Wendy’s Dave’s Double combo, which includes a medium fries and medium Coca-Cola, lamenting the new price tag.
“Facts these $10+ combos are crazy,” one comment reads, reflecting a common sentiment among frequent Wendy’s patrons. The cost of this once-affordable meal has nearly doubled, prompting comparisons to sit-down restaurants. “Same price as a burger and fries at Texas Roadhouse just about,” noted another user.
The Reddit thread quickly filled with comments from customers reminiscing about more affordable times. “Didn’t this use to be like $6?” one person asked, capturing the collective disbelief over the steep price increase.
Many echoed the call for more budget-friendly options, suggesting that Wendy’s should offer smaller, cheaper combos. “Yeah, they should offer a combo that’s like $4 or $5. They could include just a small fry and small drink, and slightly smaller burger, to keep it from being so expensive. There could be multiple options, to fit different budgets,” one user proposed.
Some customers are even considering alternatives, urging others to support local diners instead. "Go support your local diner, better food quality and you'll get more," advised one commenter. This shift in sentiment suggests that Wendy's may be at risk of losing loyal customers if prices continue to climb without corresponding increases in value.
Wendy's isn't the only chain under scrutiny for inflation. McDonald's, for example, frequently receives complaints of absurd prices.
As fast-food chains navigate rising costs and changing economic conditions, striking a balance between affordability and profitability is crucial. Wendy's price hikes have clearly hit a nerve with customers who feel that their once-reliable go-to for cheap meals is no longer accessible. For many, the nostalgic days of $6 combo meals are sorely missed, and the hope is that Wendy's will heed the feedback and consider introducing more budget-friendly options to retain their customer base—but only time will tell.
