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

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

Understanding the DoorDash Business Model

Before building a DoorDash clone, it’s important to study its business model.

The Y-Shaped Business Structure

• Users browse menus and order meals.


• Restaurants prepare the meals and receive commissions per order


• Dashers (delivery partners) deliver the orders

Revenue Model of DoorDash

• Restaurant partnership commissions – 15%–30% per order


• Customer delivery charges – dynamic based on distance and demand


• Advertising Revenue – restaurants pay for visibility

Key Features of a DoorDash Clone App

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

Customer App Features

• Simple registration/login


• Advanced food search filters


• Real-time order tracking


• Secure gateway integration


• Ratings and reviews

Driver App Features

• Profile & verification system


• Flexible order management


• Smart route optimization


• Earnings dashboard

Restaurant Partner Features

• Real-time menu updates


• Order acceptance panel


• Sales analytics dashboard


• Promotions & offers

Admin Panel Features

• Centralized admin control


• Partner onboarding tools


• Delivery management tools


• Commission settings

Technology Stack for Building a DoorDash Clone

Your DoorDash clone app must be built on robust frameworks and APIs.

• Cross-platform mobile frameworks


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


• Database: MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL
on-demand delivery apps

• Real-Time Tracking: Google Maps API, Mapbox


• Multiple payment gateways


• Real-time user alerts


• Hosting: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud

Cost of Building an App Like DoorDash

Budgeting for a food delivery app involves several cost factors.

Estimated Cost Range

• Entry-level clone with core features
food delivery startups

• Customizable food delivery solution


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

Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone

1. Market research & planning


2. Design mockups


3. App coding phase


4. Payments, GPS, notifications


5. Bug fixing and optimization


6. App launch


7. Post-launch support

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.