A new study has crowned the UK’s highest rated meal deal, showing that the humble grab-and-go trio of sandwich, snack and drink has evolved into a surprisingly sharp measure of taste, convenience and value.

Best main: Sainsbury’s Summer Korean Style Chicken
Topping the mains chart is Sainsbury’s Summer Korean Style Chicken, with an overall score of 4.84. Priced at £3.25 and boasting an average rating of 4.9 across 18 reviews, the sandwich was praised for its flavour and freshness. Close behind was Yo! Spicy Prawn Dragon Roll 203g, scoring 4.845, while Tesco’s Brie & Smoked Bacon Sandwich with Chilli Jam and Eat Your Greens Feta Salad shared third place on 4.783.

Other top performers included Sainsbury’s No Mayo Hoisin Duck (£3.25), Tesco Fajita Chicken Wrap (£3), and Waitrose’s Steak & Caramelised Onion Chutney Sandwich (£4.50), rounding out a top 10 that spans classic sandwiches, wraps and salads.

Best side: KIND Caramel Almond & Sea Salt
The nation’s favourite snack was revealed to be the KIND Caramel Almond & Sea Salt bar, achieving an overall score of 4.977 from 24 reviews. Lindt’s Nocciolatte Hazelnut Bar (£1.35) closely followed at 4.974, with Cadbury Twirl (£0.95) in third on 4.968.

Other sides in the top 10 included protein-packed options such as Arla Protein Peach & Raspberry Yogurt (£1.45), KIND Protein Double Dark Chocolate Nut (£2.30) and Fulfil Chocolate Salted Caramel Vitamin & Protein Bar (£2.00), alongside nostalgic favourites including Cadbury Crunchie, Starbar, Dairy Milk Chocolate Buttons, Hula Hoops and McCoy’s crisps.

Best drink: Naked Gold Machine Passionfruit Mango & Guava Super Smoothie
Consumers also rated the accompanying drink, with the Naked Gold Machine Smoothie taking the top spot, praised for taste, texture and nutritional balance.

Once merely a convenience for office workers and students, the UK meal deal has become a cultural touchstone for budget-conscious consumers seeking quality on the go. The study highlights not only what shoppers are buying, but what they value in taste, portion size, and price – and it shows that even in a cost-conscious climate, flavour remains king.

The research, carried out by QR Code Generator PRO S.L, analysed consumer reviews, ratings and price across major retailers, producing a weighted score out of five to identify the nation’s favourites.