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

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 DoorDash clone 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.


• Drivers earn per delivery and tips.

Revenue Model of DoorDash

• Restaurant partnership commissions – percentage cut per transaction


• Delivery Fees – dynamic based on distance and demand


• 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

• Simple registration/login


• Advanced food search filters


• Real-time order tracking


• Multiple payment options


• Feedback system

Driver App Features

• Profile & verification system


• Flexible order management


• Smart route optimization


• Earnings dashboard

Restaurant Partner Features

• Real-time menu updates


• Order acceptance panel
MySQL

• Sales analytics dashboard


• Promotions & offers

Admin Panel Features

• Advanced dashboard with analytics


• Partner onboarding tools


• Fleet tracking


• 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


• Secure server-side tech


• Database: MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL


• GPS tracking integration
testing & QA

• Payments: Stripe, copyright, Braintree


• Push Notifications: Firebase, Twilio


• 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

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


• Customizable food delivery solution
restaurant partnership commissions

• Scalable app with premium features

Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone

1. Studying competitors & target audience


2. Design mockups
post-launch support

3. Frontend & backend development


4. API integration


5. Testing & QA


6. Publishing on iOS & Android stores


7. 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.