Couples are doing food deliveries instead of going on dates together

Many couples in China are now combining dates with food delivery work as a way to make some extra money while still enjoying time together.

Planning a date is flexible – you can spend a little or a lot, depending on your budget. It could be something simple like a home-cooked meal, or a more elaborate night out at a nice restaurant.

Many couples in China are now choosing to work together in cities, allowing them to earn money while also enjoying time together.

Younger couples are increasingly choosing to work together, a trend highlighted by the South China Morning Post. While the extra income is a perk, many couples find that working together actually brings them closer.

“City work” trend sees couples doing deliveries as dates

Reports show that many couples working in food delivery split the tasks: one person usually drives (often on a scooter), while the other handles customer interactions and manages orders through the delivery app.

Someone told the South China Morning Post that doing deliveries with a potential partner – rather than going on a traditional first date – is now seen as the best way to quickly gauge compatibility. It’s a real-life test of how well you work together.

Many other couples mentioned they only deliver for about two hours, not a full workday, and this brings in an extra 1,000 yuan (about $140 US) each month.

Li Zi explained that it’s an exciting experience with maps, challenges, and surprises. He said it’s more fun than staying home and gaming, and they get paid immediately, making it feel real and worthwhile.

Doing deliveries with your partner isn’t an entirely new thing, but doing it in place of a date is. 

In early March, a heartwarming story of an elderly couple using DoorDash to earn money captured the attention of the internet. People generously donated nearly $1 million to help them, known as the Pulleys.

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2026-04-01 17:19