How to Develop a Food Delivery App Like Grubhub?

Key Takeaways:

• Food delivery apps like Grubhub transform dining and offer a lucrative business opportunity through digital convenience and innovation.

• Steps to build an app like Grubhub include planning, tech stack, development, launch, marketing, and regular maintenance.

• Integration of AI drives personalization, logistics efficiency, demand prediction, and security in modern food delivery apps.

• The total development cost of an app like Grubhub ranges from USD 55,000 to USD 200,000+, depending on complexity and feature set.

• Challenges to building a food delivery app include high competition, logistics coordination, retention, secure payments, and scalability.

• The future of food delivery apps lies in AI, automation, sustainability, AR, cloud kitchens, and hyper-personalization.

• Partnering with JPLoft, an expert development company, enables the creation of a scalable, high-performance food delivery platform.

The food delivery industry has revolutionized the way people dine, and apps like Grubhub have played a significant role in shaping this digital convenience culture. It has become a profitable business opportunity for both restaurants and startups to create a food delivery app like Grubhub.

Grubhub’s success lies in its seamless user experience, real-time tracking, secure payments, and efficient restaurant partner network. Developing a similar app requires a clear understanding of user demands, a robust technology stack, and effective business strategies to compete in a market projected to reach billions in global revenue. 

In this blog, we will explore the complete process of how to develop an app like Grubhub, covering features, tech stack, and costs. From building a user-friendly interface to integrating payment systems, developing restaurant and user profiles, implementing GPS tracking, and creating order management with backend support and scalability. 

All About Grubhub App: Food delivery

Grubhub is one of the leading food delivery apps in the United States, connecting millions of users with their favorite local restaurants and national chains. Founded in 2004, Grubhub revolutionized the way people order food. It provided a convenient platform where users could browse menus, place orders, and track deliveries in real time while staying at home.  

Available on both iOS and Android, the Grubhub app features a user-friendly interface with personalized recommendations, filters for dietary preferences, and easy reordering options. Customers can explore a wide range of cuisines, from fast food and casual dining to gourmet restaurants. And can even enjoy exclusive deals and loyalty rewards through the Grubhub+ membership programs. 

For restaurants, Grubhub provides a valuable partnership opportunity, helping businesses expand their reach and attract new customers through its powerful delivery network and marketing tools. The app also allows for flexible delivery options, including contactless delivery, pickup, and scheduled orders, ensuring convenience and safety for every customer.

Grubhub operates in over 4,000 U.S. cities and continues to grow, driven by its commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation in the online food delivery market. Whether you are craving fast food or a healthy salad, Grubhub makes it easy to satisfy your hunger in just a few simple steps.

Grubhub and Related Food Delivery App Statistics

• In research by BusinessOfApps, Grubhub currently partners with over 355,000 restaurants across the USA and delivers to 4,000 cities.

• As estimated by OysterLink, in the U.S. market, Grubhub holds a 16% share, and its net worth was USD 4.5 billion as of 2024. The platform averages around 715,000 daily orders.

• According to Deliverect, the total value of the U.S. online food delivery market reached USD 34.2 billion in 2025, with a projected growth rate (CAGR) of about 10%.

• According to FutureMarketInsights, the global market of the food delivery sector is expected to grow by 9.9% CAGR through 2035, reaching over USD 125 billion.

• According to research by FutureMarketInsights, over 60% of U.S. consumers now order food online regularly, with convenience and smartphone access driving adoption.

After exploring what makes Grubhub a leading name in online food delivery, it’s time to understand the mechanism behind its success. Let’s take a closer look at how Grubhub like app development actually works and streamlines every step of the delivery process.

How Does an App like Grubhub Work?

When you create a food delivery app like Grubhub, it involves a well-coordinated process and system. That seamlessly connects customers, restaurants, and delivery partners. Here’s a breakdown of how an app like Grubhub works:

Step 1. User Registration and Profile Setup

Users begin by downloading the app and creating an account using their email, phone number, or social media. Once registered, they can save delivery addresses, payment methods, and preferences for faster future orders.

Step 2. Browsing Restaurants and Menus

The app uses location-based services to display nearby restaurants. Users can browse through menus, filter by cuisine type, ratings, delivery time, or price range, and even view exclusive offers or discounts available through loyalty programs like Grubhub+.

Step 3. Placing an Order 

After selecting a restaurant and adding items to the cart, users can customize their meals, choose delivery or pickup options, and proceed to checkout. Payments are processed securely through integrated gateways supporting credit/debit cards, wallets, or digital payment systems.

Step 4. Restaurant Confirmation and Preparation

Once the order is placed, the restaurant receives a notification through its partner dashboard or app. The kitchen confirms the order and begins preparation while updating the status in real time.

Step 5. Delivery Assignment and Tracking

When the food is ready, a nearby delivery driver is automatically assigned. The driver picks up the order and uses in-app GPS navigation for efficient delivery. Users can track the driver’s location live and receive notifications on the estimated arrival time.

Step 6. Order Delivery and Feedback

The delivery partner hands over the order at the user’s doorstep, with the option for contactless delivery. After completion, users can rate the restaurant and driver and share feedback to enhance service quality.

Apps like Grubhub streamline the entire food delivery process, from browsing to doorstep delivery. Their seamless technology ensures convenience for users, efficiency for restaurants, and earning opportunities for delivery partners. This smart ecosystem continues to redefine the modern dining experience with speed, reliability, and comfort. 

The next step is to explore why developing a similar app can be a lucrative and strategic business opportunity in today’s growing on-demand food industry.

Why Create a Food Delivery App Like Grubhub?

The growing demand for convenience and digital transformation in the food industry has made food delivery apps like Grub a thriving business model. Here are some key reasons to create an app like Grubhub and how it can benefit you:

1. Rising Market Demand

The online food delivery market is expanding rapidly with an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2030) of 9.4%, resulting in a projected market revenue of USD $505 billion by 2030. Launching an app like Grubhub allows you to tap into this booming market and serve a wide audience.

2. High Revenue Potential

Food delivery apps generate multiple revenue streams. It includes delivery fees, commissions from restaurants, premium memberships, in-app ads, and surge pricing. With consistent demand, these platforms can achieve strong profitability and scalability.

3. Enhanced Customer Convenience

By offering features like real-time tracking, digital payments, personalized recommendations, and contactless delivery, your app can provide an effortless and enjoyable user experience. This leads to higher retention and brand loyalty.

4. Support for Local Restaurants

A platform like Grubhub helps local restaurants reach new customers without heavy marketing costs. It gives small and medium-sized eateries a digital presence and a steady source of online orders.

5. Technological Innovation and Data Insights

Food delivery apps leverage technologies like AI, GPS, and data analytics to optimize routes, predict customer preferences, and improve operational efficiency. It gives the businesses a competitive edge.

6. Pandemic-Driven Lifestyle Shift

The post-pandemic era has reinforced the culture of online food ordering. Building a delivery app now means meeting consumers’ evolving expectations for safety, speed, and convenience.

Starting a food delivery app business like Grubhub is not just another profitable venture. It is a future-ready investment that bridges customer needs, restaurant growth, and technological innovation. 

Let's now identify the essential features and functionalities your app must include to better understand how to develop a food delivery app like Grubhub. That delivers a seamless and engaging experience for users, restaurants, and delivery partners.

Features Included to Develop an App like Grubhub 

Developing a Grubhub clone requires a set of well-defined top food delivery app features to ensure seamless interaction between customers, restaurants, and delivery partners. The app must prioritize convenience, speed, and personalization to stay competitive.

Here is the list of core features to integrate while you develop an app like Grubhub:

A successful food delivery app like Grubhub must seamlessly integrate features for customers, restaurants, and delivery partners. While it provides a smooth, intuitive, and secure experience to all of its users. Incorporating both core and advanced features with the help of a popular on-demand app development company ensures higher user engagement, operational efficiency, and long-term business growth. 

In the next section, we will dive into the step-by-step guide to Grubhub app like development, from planning and design to development and launch.

How to Develop a Food Delivery App Like Grubhub?

If you’re wondering how to develop an app like Grubhub, it starts with careful planning, the right strategy, and robust technology. The process involves multiple stages to ensure the app is user-friendly, scalable, and profitable.

Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide explaining how to develop an app like Grubhub effectively: 

Step 1. Conduct Market Research and Define Your Niche

Before starting with how to develop a food delivery app like Grubhub, understanding the market is crucial: 

• Analyze your competition and apps developed like Uber Eats to identify gaps, trends, and customer pain points. Determine your target audience, whether millennials, busy professionals, or families, and choose a niche. 

• For instance, you could focus on organic food, vegan cuisine, or local specialties. 

• Clear market insights help in defining features, design, and monetization strategy.

Step 2. Decide on the Business Model

The business model defines how your app will generate revenue. Choosing a clear model early helps in designing the app’s payment system and revenue features effectively. Common models include:

• Commission-based model

• Delivery fee model

• Subscription model

• Advertising model

Step 3. Identify Key Features

A successful food delivery app requires features that cater to customers, restaurants, and delivery partners. Focus on creating a seamless and intuitive interface to improve user engagement and retention. Core features to be included when you make an app like Grubhub:

► For Customers:

• Registration and login (email, phone, social media)

• Location-based restaurant search

• Filter by cuisine, price, ratings, or dietary preferences

• Order customization and cart management

• Multiple payment options and secure checkout

• Real-time order tracking

• Reviews and ratings

• Push notifications for offers and updates

► For Restaurants:

• Dashboard for menu management

• Order management and tracking

• Analytics and sales reports

• Integration with payment gateways

► For Delivery Partners:

• Registration and profile setup

• Order assignment and acceptance

• GPS navigation and route optimization

• Earnings dashboard

• In-app communication with customers and restaurants

Step 4. Choose the Right Technology Stack

The app’s performance depends heavily on the technology stack. Choosing a scalable and reliable mobile app tech stack to ensure smooth performance even during peak traffic. Consider the following:

► Frontend Development:

• iOS: Swift or Objective-C

• Android: Kotlin or Java

• Cross-platform: Flutter or React Native

► Backend Development:

• Programming languages: Node.js, Python, Ruby on Rails

• Database: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB

• Cloud services: AWS, Google Cloud, Azure

► APIs and Integrations:

• Maps and navigation: Google Maps AP

• Payment gateways: Stripe, PayPal, or local payment solutions

• Push notifications: Firebase Cloud Messaging

Step 5. Design UI/UX

User experience (UX) and interface design (UI) are critical for app adoption when you make an app like Grubhub.

• Create wireframes and prototypes for all three user types (customers, restaurants, and delivery partners).

• Focus on simplicity, intuitive navigation, and easy checkout processes. 

• Incorporate visually appealing designs and consistent branding to enhance trust and engagement.

• Conduct usability testing before finalizing the food delivery app design.

Step 6. Develop the App in Phases

A phased development approach ensures efficiency and reduces errors. Common stages include:

• MVP (Minimum Viable Product): Focus on core features like registration, restaurant listing, order placement, and payment.

• Alpha/Beta Testing: Test the app internally and with a limited audience to identify bugs and usability issues.

• Full-Scale Development: Add advanced features such as AI-based recommendations, chatbots, and loyalty programs.

Step 7. Implement AI and Automation

AI not only improves user experience but also boosts operational efficiency. Integrating AI when you make an app like Grubhub enhances efficiency and personalization:

• AI Recommendations: Suggest dishes and restaurants based on past behavior.

• Route Optimization: Automatically assign orders to drivers with the fastest routes.

• Predictive Analytics: Forecast demand to manage inventory and delivery schedules.

• Chatbots: Handle customer queries and reduce support workload.

Step 8. Test the App Thoroughly

Quality assurance is essential for the smooth functioning of a Grubhub like app development. Use automated mobile app testing tools and manual testing to ensure a bug-free launch. Test for:

• Functionality and feature accuracy

• Performance under high traffic

• Compatibility across devices and OS versions

• Security vulnerabilities and payment fraud prevention

• UX issues such as navigation and load times

Step 9. Launch and Market the App

After thorough testing, launch the app on iOS and Android platforms. Continuous marketing ensures app adoption and brand recognition. Prepare a marketing strategy to attract users and restaurants:

• Social media promotions and ads

• Influencer marketing

• Referral programs and discounts

• Collaboration with local restaurants for promotions

Step 10. Gather Feedback and Update Regularly 

Post-launch, collect feedback from users, restaurants, and delivery partners. Gather feedback and add requirements based on user insights:

• Regular updates with new features and bug fixes. 

• Performance improvements keep the app relevant and competitive. 

• Features like loyalty programs, AI enhancements, and improved UI.

Developing a food delivery app like Grubhub requires strategic planning, robust technology, and a user-focused approach. By following a food delivery app like Grubhub development guide, you can create a scalable, profitable, and user-friendly platform that meets modern consumer expectations. 

After knowing how to build a food delivery app like Grubhub, it’s important to explore how AI can enhance the app’s efficiency, personalization, and overall user experience, making it smarter and more competitive in the market.

How Is AI Useful to Create a Food Delivery App Like Grubhub?

When learning how to develop an app like Grubhub, understanding AI’s role is important. It helps in enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and personalization. By integrating AI into various components of the app, you can create smarter, faster, and more personalized food delivery solutions. 

Here’s how AI contributes while you make a food delivery app like Grubhub:

1. Personalized Recommendations

Build an AI app with advanced algorithms to analyze user behavior, order history, location, and preferences to suggest restaurants or dishes they’re most likely to enjoy. This personalization helps boost engagement, retention, and sales.

2. Efficient Order Management 

AI automates the process of matching incoming orders with available restaurants and delivery drivers based on factors like distance, estimated preparation time, and traffic conditions. This ensures faster and more accurate deliveries.

3. Route Optimization

AI-powered navigation and predictive analytics help drivers choose the most efficient delivery routes. The system can dynamically adjust routes in real time based on traffic, weather, or unexpected delays to ensure timely deliveries.

4. Demand Forecasting 

AI models can predict peak hours, popular food items, and delivery demand in specific areas. These insights enable restaurants and app owners to prepare in advance, reducing delays and preventing inventory shortages.

5. Smart Chatbots and Customer Support

AI-driven chatbots handle common user queries like order status, refunds, or delivery updates instantly and efficiently. They provide 24/7 assistance, ensuring uninterrupted service and quicker issue resolution.

6. Fraud Detection and Security 

AI systems detect unusual payment patterns or suspicious activities, protecting both users and businesses from fraud and unauthorized transactions. Continuous machine learning updates enhance security over time, making the app more trustworthy and resilient.

AI transforms how to build a food delivery app like Grubhub into an intelligent ecosystem. It can improve the personalization, efficiency, and profitability while ensuring a seamless experience for users, restaurants, and delivery partners alike. Partner with the best mobile app development company in the USA for seamless integrations of AI in your app. 

When planning how to develop a food delivery app like Grubhub, it’s crucial to estimate your budget early based on features and development complexity. Thus, the next priority is the cost involved in developing a Grubhub-like app, a fully functional platform.

Cost to Build an App like Grubhub

The cost to create an app like Grubhub typically ranges between USD 55,000 and USD 200,000, depending on the preferences. The total cost to create a food delivery app can vary widely based on the app complexity, features, location of the development team, and targeted platforms (iOS, Android, or both).

Below is a detailed breakdown of the overall cost to create an app like Grubhub and an estimated range to help you plan your budget:  

Proper planning and prioritizing key features during the initial stages of development will help optimize your budget and create a successful Grubhub app clone. 

Estimated Cost Based on App Complexity:

Below, we have provided the total estimated cost to develop an app like Grubhub based on the complexity of the app:  

1. Basic MVP: 

• Features: Includes core features like user registration, restaurant listing, menu, order placement, and payments.

• Estimated Cost in USD: $30,000 – $60,000 

2. Mid-Level App:

• Features: Includes real-time tracking, ratings, notifications, chat support, and analytics.

• Estimated Cost in USD: $60,000 – $100,000

3. Advanced App ( Grubhub-level):

• Features: Includes AI-based recommendations, loyalty programs, advanced analytics, multi-language support, and scalability for high traffic.

• Estimated Cost in USD: $100,000 – $200,000+

As we can see above, the cost to develop an app like Grubhub largely depends on the features implemented, the platforms, and the region of the development team. While it is a significant investment, the returns are promising given the growing global demand for online food delivery services.  

The next step is to explore how to monetize a Grubhub like app development and turn your investment into a sustainable and profitable business.

How to Monetize a Food Delivery App like Grubhub?

Monetizing a food delivery app like Grubhub involves multiple revenue streams that generate consistent income while providing value to users and restaurant partners. By diversifying income sources, food delivery apps like Grubhub can achieve long-term growth and financial success. 

Here are the most effective monetization strategies while you build an app like Grubhub:

1. Commission from Restaurants

Food delivery apps typically charge partner restaurants a commission fee for every successful order placed through the platform. This percentage-based revenue model forms the backbone of the business, ensuring steady earnings as order volumes increase.

2. Delivery Charges 

Customers are often charged a small delivery fee based on factors like distance, order size, or delivery speed. Some apps also offer free delivery for premium members or during special promotions to attract more users.

3. Subscription Plans (like Grubhub+)

Subscription models provide users with perks such as unlimited free deliveries, exclusive discounts, or priority customer support. This recurring monthly or annual income helps maintain financial stability and customer loyalty.

4. In-App Advertising 

Restaurants and brands can pay to feature their listings at the top of search results or run targeted ads within the app. This helps businesses gain visibility while generating additional ad revenue for the platform.

5. Surge Pricing and Convenience Fees

During peak hours or high-demand periods, food delivery apps can apply dynamic pricing to maximize revenue. Convenience fees may also be added for small orders or premium delivery options.

6. Affiliate Marketing and Partnerships

Create a mobile app for collaborating with third-party services such as payment gateways, grocery stores, or loyalty programs. It can open new revenue channels through affiliate marketing and strategic partnerships.

If you develop an app like Grubhub, a combination of commissions, subscriptions, delivery fees, and advertisements ensures a sustainable and profitable business model. By focusing on scalability, user experience, and smart monetization strategies, you can build a profitable and sustainable app that competes effectively in this dynamic market.

It’s equally important to recognize the challenges involved to make a food delivery app like Grubhub and how to address them effectively for long-term success.

Challenges to Build a Food Delivery App like Grubhub

While creating a Grubhub-like app can be a lucrative opportunity, it also comes with several food delivery app development challenges that require careful planning, strong technology, and effective execution. Here are some of the key challenges you might face while you build an app like Grubhub: 

Challenge 1: Customer Retention

With numerous options available, users can easily switch to competitors. Retaining customers requires continuous engagement, personalized experiences, and incentives to encourage repeat usage.

Solution: Offer personalized recommendations, loyalty programs, and exclusive discounts to keep users engaged.

Challenge 2: Integration with Multiple Restaurants

Each restaurant may have different menu formats, pricing structures, operating hours, and order management systems. Ensuring smooth integration and consistent data across all partners can be challenging.

Solution: Use a standardized restaurant partner dashboard with easy menu management and order updates.

Challenge 3: High Competition 

The food delivery industry is extremely saturated with well-established apps developed like DoorDash and local services. New apps often struggle to attract users and restaurants without a strong value proposition or marketing strategy.

Solution: Focus on niche markets, unique features, or superior user experience to differentiate your app.

Challenge 4: Logistics and Delivery Management

Coordinating real-time orders, driver availability, and delivery routes is highly complex. Delays due to traffic, weather conditions, or high demand can affect customer satisfaction and app reputation.

Solution: Implement AI-based route optimization and real-time tracking to streamline delivery operations.

Challenge 5: Payment Security

Handling sensitive financial information like credit card details and digital wallets exposes the app to risks of fraud, hacking, and chargebacks. Maintaining secure, seamless payment processing is critical.

Solution: Integrate reliable payment gateways and AI-based fraud detection systems.

Challenge 6: App Performance and Scalability

Apps must handle sudden spikes in traffic during peak hours, holidays, or promotional campaigns. Poor performance, crashes, or slow loading times can lead to negative reviews and user churn.

Solution: Build a scalable cloud-based infrastructure to manage traffic surges and ensure smooth operation.

To build an app like Grubhub requires overcoming tough competition, managing logistics, ensuring data security, and maintaining service consistency. All while delivering a seamless user experience. Hiring an experienced mobile app maintenance service provider can help you resolve most of these problems seamlessly.

It’s crucial to look ahead at the future trends shaping the industry and how emerging technologies can overcome these hurdles while enhancing user experience.

Future Trends of a Food Delivery App like Grubhub

The food delivery industry is rapidly evolving, driven by technological innovation and changing consumer preferences. As competition intensifies, apps like Grubhub are adapting to new trends that redefine the dining and delivery experience. 

Here are the key future food delivery app trends shaping this industry: 

1. AI and Machine Learning Integration

Future delivery apps will rely even more on AI to enhance personalization, automate order management, and predict demand patterns. Machine learning will also help optimize pricing, delivery routes, and customer engagement strategies in real time.

2. Drone and Robot Deliveries

The rise of autonomous technology will make drone and robot deliveries a game-changer, offering faster, contactless, and eco-friendly delivery solutions. Especially becoming popular in urban areas and smart cities.

3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices 

Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of sustainability. Expect to see biodegradable packaging, carbon-neutral deliveries, and partnerships with green logistics providers to minimize environmental impact.

4. Cloud Kitchens and Virtual Restaurants

The growth of cloud kitchens will continue, reducing operational costs while expanding menu options. This food delivery app idea allows businesses to serve more customers without investing in physical dine-in spaces.

5. Voice and Smart Device Ordering

Integration with smart assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri will make ordering food hands-free and more convenient. Users will simply use voice commands to reorder favorites or track deliveries.

6. Hyper-Personalized Experiences

Future apps will use data-driven insights to offer tailored recommendations, dynamic offers, and personalized meal plans based on dietary preferences, lifestyle, and purchase history.

7. Integration of Augmented Reality (AR)

AR features will let users visualize dishes before ordering or explore restaurant interiors virtually, enhancing the digital dining experience. This helps restaurants showcase their food presentation and ambiance more engagingly, increasing customer trust and conversion rates.

The future of food delivery apps like Grubhub lies in smart automation, personalization, and sustainability. Creating a seamless, efficient, and environmentally responsible way to enjoy food anytime, anywhere.

Build Your Dream Food Delivery App like Grubhub

Turn your vision into reality with JPLoft, an experienced development company specializing in building high-performance, user-friendly, and scalable food delivery apps like Grubhub. Our expert team of developers, designers, and strategists ensures your app stands out in the competitive food tech industry with cutting-edge features, intuitive design, and seamless performance.

At JPLoft, we build complete business solutions, from concept and UI/UX design to development, testing, and post-launch support. We deliver end-to-end services tailored to your goals. Whether you’re a startup looking for a cost-effective MVP or an enterprise aiming for a full-featured food delivery platform, our solutions are built to grow with your business.

With advanced integrations like real-time order tracking, AI-driven recommendations, secure payments, and custom analytics dashboards, we help you deliver an unmatched experience to customers, restaurants, and delivery partners alike.

Partner with JPLoft, an experienced food delivery app development company, to launch your next-gen food delivery app that rivals industry giants like Grubhub and DoorDash. Get in touch today and start building your dream app with JPLoft!

Conclusion

The idea to create an app like Grubhub offers tremendous potential in today’s digital-first dining landscape. With the right combination of technology, innovation, and strategy, businesses can create a platform that delivers convenience to users, visibility to restaurants, and opportunities to delivery partners.

By focusing on scalability, security, and personalized user experiences, entrepreneurs can build a robust app. That meets the evolving expectations of both customers and restaurant partners. Incorporating emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and sustainable delivery models will also help future-proof the business.

From understanding market needs and integrating AI-driven features to ensuring seamless design and scalability, a guide to Grubhub app like development plays a vital role in the app’s success. As the demand for convenience and digital dining continues to rise, food delivery apps are becoming an essential part of everyday life.