How to Build an App Like DoorDash: Features, Tech Stack & Cost Explained

The online food delivery industry has witnessed massive growth, and apps like DoorDash 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.


• Partner restaurants list menus and manage sales.


• Dashers (delivery partners) deliver the orders

Revenue Model of DoorDash

• Restaurant partnership commissions – percentage cut per transaction


• Customer delivery charges – average $5–$8


• Promoted listings – 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


• Multiple payment options


• Ratings and reviews

Driver App Features

• Easy registration process


• Accept/reject delivery requests


• GPS navigation support


• Daily/weekly payout summaries

Restaurant Partner Features

• Menu & price management


• Live order tracking


• Sales analytics dashboard


• Promotions & offers

Admin Panel Features

• Advanced dashboard with analytics


• Partner onboarding tools


• Delivery management tools


• 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


• Secure server-side tech
real-time tracking

• Scalable data storage


• GPS tracking integration


• Payments: Stripe, copyright, Braintree


• Real-time user alerts


• Cloud infrastructure

Cost of Building an App Like DoorDash

Budgeting for a food delivery app involves several cost factors.

Estimated Cost Range

DoorDash clone script

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


• Customizable food delivery solution


• Advanced Solution: $75,000–$120,000+
centralized admin control

Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone

1. Studying competitors & target audience


2. UI/UX wireframing


3. App coding phase


4. Payments, GPS, notifications


5. Bug fixing and optimization


6. App launch


7. Post-launch support

Conclusion

With the right features, technology stack, and business model, your food delivery startup can thrive. By understanding DoorDash’s business model and revenue streams, you can create a scalable and sustainable delivery platform.