Overview
At Lou Malnati's, we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality Chicago-style deep dish pizza and exceptional service. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we stand behind every product we serve.
This refund policy outlines the conditions and procedures for requesting refunds or exchanges on orders placed through our restaurant, online ordering system, or delivery services. We strive to resolve any issues promptly and fairly while maintaining the quality standards that have made Lou Malnati's a trusted name since 1971.
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Refund Eligibility
Timeframe Requirements
- Dine-in Orders: Issues must be reported immediately during your visit or within 2 hours of leaving the restaurant
- Takeout Orders: Must be reported within 2 hours of pickup
- Delivery Orders: Must be reported within 1 hour of delivery
- Catering Orders: Must be reported within 4 hours of scheduled delivery/pickup time
- Gift Cards: Refund requests must be made within 30 days of purchase
Proof of Purchase
To be eligible for a refund, customers must provide:
- Original receipt or order confirmation number
- Valid form of identification
- Credit card used for payment (for card transactions)
- Photos of defective or incorrect items (when applicable)
Product Condition Requirements
- Food items must be substantially unconsumed (more than 75% remaining)
- Items must be in original packaging when applicable
- Temperature-sensitive items must still be at proper serving temperature
- Custom orders require manager approval for refunds
Non-Refundable Items
The following items and services are not eligible for refunds:
Food Items
- Custom or special-order pizzas that were prepared to customer specifications
- Items that have been partially consumed (less than 75% remaining)
- Food items ordered more than 4 hours prior to refund request
- Alcoholic beverages (unless defective or incorrectly served)
- Items consumed off-premises without reporting issues within specified timeframes
Services and Fees
- Delivery fees (unless delivery was not completed)
- Service charges and gratuities
- Processing fees for online orders
- Convenience fees for third-party delivery services
Special Circumstances
- Orders cancelled less than 30 minutes before scheduled pickup/delivery
- No-show customers for scheduled pickup orders
- Items affected by customer dietary restrictions not disclosed at time of order
- Gift cards purchased more than 30 days prior
Refund Process
Follow these steps to request a refund:
Call our customer service line at +1 504-528-9393 or speak with a manager on-site. Report the issue as soon as possible within the eligible timeframe.
Have your receipt, order number, and any supporting documentation ready. Clearly explain the reason for your refund request.
A manager will review your request and may ask for additional information or photos of the items in question.
For certain issues, we may need to inspect the items. Please keep items in original condition until inspection is complete.
We will inform you of our decision and explain the next steps. Approved refunds will be processed according to our refund methods policy.
We will provide you with a reference number for your refund request and expected timeline for completion.
Refund Methods
Original Payment Method
Refunds will be processed to the original method of payment used for the purchase:
- Credit/Debit Cards: 3-5 business days to appear on your statement
- Cash Payments: Immediate cash refund at the restaurant location
- Gift Cards: Credit restored to original gift card or new gift card issued
- Third-Party Apps: Processed through the original app platform (5-7 business days)
Processing Timeframes
- In-Restaurant: Immediate for cash, same-day processing for cards
- Online Orders: 1-2 business days to initiate processing
- Delivery Orders: 2-3 business days to initiate processing
- Catering Orders: 3-5 business days to initiate processing
Alternative Refund Options
In certain circumstances, we may offer:
- Store credit for future purchases (with 12-month expiration)
- Replacement items of equal or greater value
- Complimentary meal vouchers for future visits
Exchanges Policy
When Exchanges Are Available
We offer exchanges in the following situations:
- Incorrect order received (wrong pizza toppings, size, etc.)
- Food quality issues (undercooked, overcooked, cold)
- Missing items from order
- Defective or damaged items
Exchange Process
For dine-in customers, exchanges can be processed immediately. For takeout and delivery orders:
- Return the incorrect/defective item to the restaurant
- Receive immediate replacement or credit for future order
- Keep original receipt for verification
Exchanges vs. Refunds
We prefer exchanges to refunds when possible because it allows us to correct the issue and ensure you receive the Lou Malnati's experience you expect. Exchanges are processed faster than refunds and allow you to enjoy your meal without delay.
Damaged or Defective Items
What Qualifies as Damaged/Defective
- Food that is significantly undercooked or overcooked
- Items that are cold when they should be hot
- Contaminated or spoiled ingredients
- Physical damage to packaging affecting food safety
- Missing components of ordered items
- Items that pose health or safety concerns
Special Handling for Defective Items
For damaged or defective items, we provide:
- Immediate Resolution: Priority handling for food safety concerns
- Full Refund: No questions asked for genuinely defective items
- Expedited Replacement: Fast-tracked preparation of replacement items
- Compensation: Additional compensation for inconvenience when appropriate
Food Safety Protocol
If you suspect a food safety issue, please stop consuming the item immediately and contact us. We take food safety seriously and will investigate all concerns promptly. You may be entitled to a full refund plus additional compensation.
Contact Information for Refund Requests
How to Reach Us
For fastest resolution of refund requests, contact us using the following methods:
Phone Support
- Customer Service Hotline: +1 504-528-9393
- Hours: Daily 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Average Wait Time: Less than 3 minutes
In-Person
- Restaurant Address: 800 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Manager Availability: Daily during operating hours
- Best Times: Weekday afternoons for faster service
Email Support
- General Inquiries: [email protected]
- Response Time: Within 24 hours
- Include: Order number, contact information, and detailed description
What Information to Have Ready
- Order receipt or confirmation number
- Date and time of order
- Items involved in the refund request
- Reason for refund request
- Photos of items (if applicable)
- Your contact information
Quick Contact
New Orleans, LA 70130