Step-by-Step Guide on Building an App Like DoorDash in 2025

The online food delivery industry has witnessed massive growth, and DoorDash stand as leading examples. This guide will explain everything about creating a custom food delivery app from scratch.

Understanding the DoorDash Business Model

To develop a DoorDash-like app, you must first understand how the platform operates.

The Y-Shaped Business Structure

• Users browse menus and order meals.


• Restaurants prepare the meals and receive commissions per order


• Drivers earn per delivery and tips.

Revenue Model of DoorDash

• Restaurant partnership commissions – percentage cut per transaction


• Delivery Fees – average $5–$8


• Promoted listings – sponsored placements inside the app

Key Features of a DoorDash Clone App

To compete with DoorDash, your clone must include a full feature set.

Customer App Features

• Quick signup with social logins


• Advanced food search filters


• Live delivery updates


• Secure gateway integration


• Feedback system

Driver App Features

• Easy registration process


• Accept/reject delivery requests


• GPS navigation support


• Daily/weekly payout summaries

Restaurant Partner Features

• Menu & price management
database: MongoDB

• Live order tracking


• Revenue insights


• Discount campaign tools

Admin Panel Features

• Centralized admin control


• Partner onboarding tools


• Fleet tracking


• Commission settings

Technology Stack for Building a DoorDash Clone

Selecting the right technology stack is critical for app scalability and performance.

• Cross-platform mobile frameworks
multiple payment options

• Backend: Node.js, Django, or Ruby on Rails


• Database: MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL


• GPS tracking integration


• Multiple payment gateways


• Real-time user alerts


• Cloud infrastructure
food delivery app clone

Cost of Building an App Like DoorDash

Budgeting for a food delivery app involves several cost factors.

Estimated Cost Range

real-time order tracking

• Basic DoorDash Clone: $25,000–$35,000


• Mid-Level App: $40,000–$70,000


• Advanced Solution: $75,000–$120,000+

Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone

1. Market research & planning


2. Design mockups


3. App coding phase


4. API integration


5. Testing & QA


6. App launch


7. Feature updates and scaling

Conclusion

Building a DoorDash clone app can be a profitable venture if executed strategically. Whether you choose a ready-made DoorDash clone script or a custom-built app, the food delivery industry offers huge potential in 2025 and beyond.