How Much Does Arby’s Classic Roast Beef Sandwich Cost in 2023?

Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich is an iconic menu item that has been satisfying customers’ savory sandwich cravings since 1964. This thinly sliced roast beef stacked high on a toasted sesame seed bun is a simple yet delicious combination. But with inflation and rising food costs, you may be wondering – how much does this sandwich cost in 2023?

In this article, we’ll break down the current price of Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich, look at how the price has changed over the years, and explain what goes into pricing this popular menu item. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic roast beef sandwich or just want to know what’s affordable on the Arby’s menu, read on to learn all the details.

Current Price in 2023

According to Arby’s website, the classic roast beef sandwich costs $4.59 on its own as of February 2023. However, prices can vary a bit by location. To get a more accurate price for your area, it’s best to check your local Arby’s menu.

When the classic roast beef sandwich is purchased as a meal with a side and drink, it costs $8.99 at most locations.

Here is a quick overview of the current Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich pricing:

  • Classic Roast Beef Sandwich Only: $4.59

  • Classic Roast Beef Meal (with side and drink): $8.99

So if you just want the sandwich by itself, expect to pay around $4.59 plus tax. Getting it as a meal will add a few more dollars to the total cost.

Price History and Inflation

To understand the current price tag on the classic roast beef sandwich, it helps to look at how much it has cost over the years.

Back in 2000, an Arby’s roast beef sandwich was just $2.99 on its own. The meal with a side and drink cost $4.99.

  • In 2000: Roast Beef Sandwich = $2.99, Roast Beef Meal = $4.99

Fast forward to 2010 and the prices rose to $3.49 for the sandwich and $5.49 for a meal.

  • In 2010: Roast Beef Sandwich = $3.49, Roast Beef Meal = $5.49

By 2020, the sandwich was up to $3.99 alone or $6.99 as a meal.

  • In 2020: Roast Beef Sandwich = $3.99, Roast Beef Meal = $6.99

As you can see, the price has gradually increased over the past 20+ years. inflation and rising food costs contribute to menu prices going up over time at restaurants like Arby’s.

Between 2020 and 2023 alone, the classic roast beef sandwich price jumped around 15% from $3.99 to $4.59. The current $4.59 price tag reflects the impact of recent inflationary pressures.

But while the nominal price has increased, when you adjust for inflation, the “real” price actually peaked back in 2000. $2.99 in 2000 would be equivalent to about $5.00 today! So all things considered, Arby’s has done a decent job keeping this sandwich affordable for customers.

What Impacts the Pricing?

There are a few important factors that Arby’s considers when pricing the classic roast beef sandwich and other menu items:

Ingredient Costs – The roast beef is the most expensive component of the sandwich. Fluctuations in beef prices impact the overall cost to produce it.

Labor Expenses – From the employees prepping the food to the cost of benefits and wages, labor costs are a big driver of menu prices.

Franchisee Input – Local franchise owners have some control over pricing based on their specific restaurant’s economic conditions.

Competitor Benchmarking – Arby’s looks at sandwich prices at other fast food chains to determine competitive positioning.

Customer Demand – Popular sandwiches like the classic roast beef can command a slightly higher price that customers are willing to pay.

Company Profit Margins – The prices set by Arby’s corporate also account for maintaining healthy profit margins on menu items.

Tips for Saving Money

If you’re hoping to get an Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich on a budget, here are some money-saving tips:

  • Take advantage of coupons and deals. Arby’s frequently offers coupons and promotions both online and in their app. Sign up to receive offers by email too.

  • Choose sandwich-only rather than the meal. Ordering the sandwich a la carte skips the side and drink to save a few bucks.

  • Go for the junior roast beef sandwich. The junior size features one slice of meat on a bun for just $2.49, almost half the price of the regular classic sandwich.

  • Stick to water. Free water cups are available at Arby’s instead of paying for a soda or bottled drink.

  • Visit during happy hour. Select locations offer happy hour specials on sandwiches during certain hours.

  • Buy in bulk. The Arby’s 2 for $6 deal allows you to get two classic sandwiches for just $3 each.

Is the Roast Beef Sandwich Worth the Price?

At the end of the day, is Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich worth the price? Considering you get a few slices of lean roasted beef topped with zesty Arby’s sauce on a toasted sesame bun, the sandwich is a decent value compared to similar offerings at other fast food restaurants.

The soft, thinly sliced meat is more premium than the ground beef used in most burgers. And the taste is hard to replicate outside of an Arby’s kitchen. Many customers find the classic roast beef sandwich to be filling and satisfying.

Unless you catch a coupon or special deal, the regular $4.59 sandwich is a bit expensive for fast food. But overall, you’re paying for the high-quality roast beef that Arby’s has become known for over the past 60 years. If you’re an Arby’s fan, the classic sandwich remains a go-to menu item worth enjoying.

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Arby’s Classic Roast Beef Sandwich Taste Test and Rating

FAQ

Is Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich healthy?

Most Nutritious Option Arby’s classic roast beef sandwich is the most nutritious main menu item. Accompanied by a healthy beverage and a side salad, it can make for a smart meal choice.

Is Arby’s roast beef real or processed meat?

Arby’s uses Beef to make their famous roast beef meat. It’s processed in a unique way that yields a sliced product.

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