Freshly vs Gobble

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in New York City, Freshly quickly became a notable player in the meal delivery service industry before its shutdown in 2023. Known for offering convenient, ready-to-eat meals that emphasized both nutrition and taste, Freshly catered to health-conscious consumers seeking a hassle-free dining experience. Their meals were fully cooked by chefs, providing a simple solution for those with busy lifestyles who still wanted to enjoy delicious, home-style meals without the prep work. With a diverse rotating menu that included options like gluten-free and low-calorie dishes, Freshly appealed to a wide range of dietary preferences. Freshly’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and eco-friendly packaging was well-received, although some customers noted concerns about portion sizes and packaging volume. As a Nestlé-acquired company, Freshly had the backing of a major food conglomerate, which contributed to its credibility and innovation in the meal delivery space. However, despite these strengths, the company faced challenges in a competitive market and ultimately ceased operations. This review invites readers to explore the specifics of Freshly’s offerings and to consider what made it both a standout choice and a cautionary tale in the dynamic meal kit industry.

Gobble is a premium meal kit delivery service founded in 2010 and headquartered in San Francisco, California. Their goal is to make home cooking quick, easy, and delicious by pre-preparing ingredients and providing simple recipes that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. Gobble offers a menu of 13 main options plus 2 premium choices with customizable proteins. Their meals feature global flavors and high-quality ingredients, providing a convenient solution for busy families who enjoy homemade meals without extensive prep work. The service delivers pre-portioned ingredients in individual bags along with detailed recipe cards. While some reviewers found the meals tasty and the service convenient, others noted issues with the freshness of produce, high prices, and difficulty with ordering. Gobble is best suited for those seeking a simple, mainstream palate and an easy cooking experience, though the value may be limited for singles or couples. Overall, Gobble's unique once-a-week subscription model and focus on speed and convenience set it apart in the meal kit delivery market.