What can $20 really get you these days? At first glance, not much—especially in a world of rising menu prices, service fees, and shrinking portions. But if you know where to look, twenty bucks can still buy a flavorful, full-size meal at popular restaurants. This $20 challenge rounds up some of the best national dining chains where your Andrew Jackson stretches the farthest, especially when paired with cashback tools like Fluz.
This isn’t about dollar menus or snack-sized portions—it’s about real value, filling portions, and reliable chains where you can confidently order in or dine out.
- Chipotle – Build Your Own Bowl + a Drink
Chipotle remains a top contender for customizable meals under $20. A standard chicken or veggie burrito bowl with all the fixings plus a regular drink totals around $12–$13, depending on location.
Pro tip: Skip premium proteins like steak or barbacoa to keep costs down. Want to stack the value? Get Chipotle at a discount with Fluz.
- Panera Bread – You Pick Two Combo
The You Pick Two deal is a fan favorite for diners who want variety. Pair a half sandwich with a cup of soup or salad, and you’re usually under $14–$16 with tax. Add a drink and you’re still right under the $20 threshold.
Buy a Panera Bread gift card online to earn cashback instantly before checkout.
- Jersey Mike’s – Giant Sub for Sharing or Two Regulars
Jersey Mike’s offers generous portions, especially if you opt for a “Giant” size sandwich to split or two regulars using a coupon. Most regular-size subs range from $8–$11, and often come with deals on chips or drinks when bundled.
You can save money on Jersey Mike’s with gift cards from Fluz.
- Buffalo Wild Wings – Wing Tuesdays or Boneless Thursdays
Buffalo Wild Wings’ recurring promotions let you indulge affordably. Tuesdays are buy-one-get-one free traditional wings, while Thursdays feature boneless BOGO offers. That’s enough protein-packed goodness to share or savor solo, often for under $15 before tip.
Want extra value? Earn cashback with a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card.
- Noodles & Company – Pasta Bowls + Extras
Noodles & Company offers hearty bowls like the Wisconsin Mac & Cheese, Pesto Cavatappi, or Pad Thai, all typically priced between $8–$11. Add a side salad or dessert and you’re still comfortably under $20.
Get a Noodles & Company gift card with instant rewards through Fluz.
- Blaze Pizza – Build Your Own Pie
Fast-casual pizza doesn’t get better than this. At Blaze Pizza, you can build your own 11” pie with unlimited toppings starting at around $11. Add a drink or dessert, and you’ve still got change to spare.
Buy a Blaze Pizza gift card online and earn cashback at checkout.
- Red Robin – Gourmet Burgers and Bottomless Fries
If you’re craving a classic burger joint vibe, Red Robin delivers. Many of their signature burgers are around $13–$15 and include bottomless steak fries, making this a perfect dine-in deal.
Get Red Robin at a discount with a Fluz gift card.
- CAVA – Bowls and Pitas with Premium Ingredients
CAVA’s Mediterranean-inspired menu delivers bold flavor and healthy portions. Most bowls and pita wraps range between $11–$14. Add a beverage and you’ll still land below $20.
Pair it with CAVA Rewards to maximize points, and stack savings using Fluz.
Stretch Your Dining Dollars Further
The real hack isn’t just choosing the right restaurant—it’s how you pay. With Fluz, you can earn instant cashback by buying a gift card for the exact amount due, right at checkout. No planning ahead, no overspending.
