How to Build an App Like DoorDash: Features, Tech Stack & Cost Explained
Food delivery startups worldwide are looking to replicate DoorDash clone app features. 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
- Customers place orders via the app
- Partner restaurants list menus and manage sales.
- Drivers earn per delivery and tips.
Revenue Model of DoorDash
- Commission Fees – percentage cut per transaction
- Delivery Fees – average $5–$8
- Advertising Revenue – restaurants pay for visibility
Key Features of a DoorDash Clone App
A successful food delivery app must integrate features for customers, restaurants, drivers, and admins.
Customer App Features
- Quick signup with social logins
- Search by cuisine or restaurant
- Live delivery updates
- Secure gateway integration
- Feedback system
Driver App Features
- Easy registration process
- Flexible order management
- Smart route optimization
- Earnings dashboard
Restaurant Partner Features
- Menu & price management
- Order acceptance panel
- Sales analytics dashboard
- Discount campaign tools
Admin Panel Features
- Centralized admin control
- User & restaurant management
- Fleet tracking
- Revenue monitoring features
Technology Stack for Building a DoorDash Clone
Your DoorDash clone app must be built on robust frameworks and APIs.
- Cross-platform mobile frameworks frontend: React Native / Flutter
- Secure server-side tech
- Scalable data storage
- Real-Time Tracking: Google Maps API, Mapbox
- Multiple payment gateways
- Push Notifications: Firebase, Twilio
- Cloud infrastructure
Cost of Building an App Like DoorDash
The cost to build a DoorDash clone depends on features, customization, and team location.
Estimated Cost Range
- Entry-level clone with core features
- Mid-Level App: $40,000–$70,000
- Scalable app with premium features
Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone
- Market research & planning restaurant partnership commissions
- Design mockups
- App coding phase
- Payments, GPS, notifications
- Testing & QA
- Publishing on iOS & Android stores
- Feature updates and scaling
Conclusion
With the right features, technology stack, and business model, your food delivery startup can thrive. 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.