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
- Customers place orders via the app
- Partner restaurants list menus and manage sales.
- Dashers (delivery partners) deliver the orders
Revenue Model of DoorDash
- Restaurant partnership commissions – percentage cut per transaction
- Delivery Fees – average $5–$8
- Promoted listings – 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
- Quick signup with social logins
- Search by cuisine or restaurant
- Real-time order tracking
- Multiple payment options
- 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
- Revenue insights
- Discount campaign tools
Admin Panel Features
- restaurant partnership commissions
- Centralized admin control
- User & restaurant management
- Delivery management tools
- 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
- Secure server-side tech
- Scalable data storage
- GPS tracking integration
- Multiple payment gateways
- Real-time user alerts
- Cloud infrastructure earnings dashboard
Cost of Building an App Like DoorDash
Budgeting for a food delivery app involves several cost factors.
Estimated Cost Range
- DoorDash-like app
- Entry-level clone with core features
- Customizable food delivery solution
- Advanced Solution: $75,000–$120,000+
Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone
- Market research & planning DoorDash-like app
- UI/UX wireframing
- App coding phase
- Payments, GPS, notifications
- Testing & QA
- App launch
- 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.