The food ordering industry has seen tremendous growth over the last decade, with the involvement of food ordering apps such as Grubhub, DoorDash, and UberEats revolutionizing the food ordering process. Entrepreneurs and startups have also started to show interest in replicating the success with the development of a Grubhub clone application. However, when it comes to developing an application such as this, one faces a typical dilemma regarding the use of a readymade solution or the development of a custom solution, and this article aims to be a comprehensive guide to assist you with this decision.
Understanding What a Grubhub Clone App Is
Core Concept
A Grubhub clone app is a food delivery platform modeled after Grubhub’s core functionality. It connects restaurants, delivery personnel, and end-users on a single platform, enabling seamless online food ordering and delivery. The app typically includes features such as:
- Restaurant listing and search filters
- Real-time order tracking
- Secure payment gateways
- Ratings and reviews
- Admin dashboards for restaurants and delivery personnel
Many startups and entrepreneurs opt for a Grubhub clone script solution to save time and cost, as it provides a ready-made framework with essential features that can be customized to fit local market needs. Essentially, it replicates the business logic of Grubhub but can be tailored for unique service offerings.
Why It’s Popular
The widespread use of the Grubhub clone app does not come as a surprise. The online food ordering market globally will reach a value of over 350 billion dollars by 2030 due to the convenience of ordering food online. The use of smartphones has largely helped increase the demand for food ordering apps such as the Grubhub clone.
Additionally, the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of online food delivery, making it a lucrative market for new players.
Readymade vs Custom Grubhub Clone App
When building a Grubhub-like app, businesses have two primary options:
- Readymade Clone App: Pre-built solutions that can be purchased and deployed with minimal changes.
- Custom Development: Building the app from scratch with tailored features, design, and backend infrastructure.
Both approaches have their pros and cons, which we’ll explore next.
Advantages of a Readymade Grubhub-like App
If you want to launch a food delivery app quickly without heavy investment, readymade solutions are an excellent choice.
1. Quick Deployment
One of the biggest advantages of readymade solutions is speed. Pre-built apps come with core functionalities already implemented. This allows businesses to launch in weeks instead of months, which is crucial in fast-moving markets where first movers often gain a competitive edge.
2. Cost-Effective Solution
Developing an app from scratch can be expensive, particularly when factoring in development, testing, and maintenance. Readymade solutions are usually more affordable upfront, making them an attractive choice for startups or businesses testing the market.
3. Proven Framework
Readymade apps come with tested features and frameworks. This reduces the risk of bugs or design flaws. Many solutions also provide support and updates, ensuring your app remains functional as mobile OS updates roll out.
Advantages of a Custom Grubhub Clone App
While readymade apps are convenient, custom development offers flexibility and long-term advantages that can’t be matched.
1. Unlimited Customization
Custom apps allow businesses to design every feature according to their needs. You can integrate unique offerings like loyalty programs, advanced AI-based recommendations, or hyperlocal delivery options, ensuring a personalized user experience.
2. High Scalability
Custom solutions are built to scale. As your user base grows, you can expand server capacity, add new features, or integrate third-party services without being limited by the constraints of a readymade platform.
3. Stronger Brand Identity
With custom development, your app’s design, interface, and user experience are entirely unique. This helps differentiate your brand in a crowded market and makes your platform instantly recognizable.
4. Long-Term ROI
Although the initial investment is higher, a custom app tends to deliver higher long-term ROI. You avoid licensing fees, have more control over monetization strategies, and can continuously adapt the app to market demands.
Technology Stack for Building a Grubhub Clone App
Choosing the right technology stack is critical to building a food delivery app like grubhub. A typical stack includes:
- Frontend: React Native, Flutter (for cross-platform apps), or Swift/Kotlin for native apps
- Backend: Node.js, Python (Django/Flask), or Ruby on Rails
- Database: MongoDB, PostgreSQL, or MySQL
- Payment Gateways: Stripe, PayPal, or Razorpay
- Real-Time Tracking: Google Maps API, Mapbox, or Firebase
- Cloud Hosting: AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure
A strong technology stack ensures faster performance, secure transactions, and a seamless experience for users and restaurants alike.
Cost to Develop an App Like Grubhub
The cost of building a Grubhub clone app varies depending on the approach:
- Readymade App: $5,000 – $15,000 (including minor customizations)
- Custom App: $30,000 – $150,000+ (depending on features, platform, and complexity)
Factors influencing cost include:
- Number of platforms (iOS, Android, Web)
- Backend complexity
- Payment gateway integration
- Advanced features (AI recommendations, chat support, etc.)
While readymade solutions are cheaper initially, custom apps provide more control over costs in the long run by eliminating recurring licensing fees.
Industry Statistics: The Future of Food Delivery
Food delivery is not slowing down. Some key statistics highlight its potential:
- The US online food delivery market reached over $40 billion in 2025.
- Mobile app orders account for 60% of total online food delivery.
- Subscription-based food delivery models are projected to grow by 15–20% annually.
- Hyperlocal delivery and cloud kitchens are emerging as high-growth opportunities.
These numbers indicate a lucrative landscape for anyone considering a Grubhub clone app, particularly if you leverage technology and data-driven strategies effectively.
Monetization Strategies for a Grubhub Clone App
A well-structured monetization plan ensures sustainable revenue. Popular strategies include:
1. Commission-Based Model
Take a percentage of each order from restaurants. This is the most common monetization model for food delivery apps.
2. Subscription Model
Offer premium features to users or restaurants via monthly or yearly subscriptions. Examples include priority delivery, special discounts, or ad-free experience.
3. Delivery Fees
Charge customers a delivery fee per order, either flat-rate or variable based on distance. This helps cover operational and logistic costs.
4. Advertising Model
Allow restaurants and brands to promote their offerings within the app. This can include banner ads, sponsored listings, or push notifications.
Combining multiple revenue streams often maximizes profitability while enhancing user engagement.
Final Verdict: Readymade vs Custom
The choice between a readymade and custom Grubhub clone app ultimately depends on your business goals, budget, and market strategy:
- Readymade: Best for startups looking for quick deployment, lower cost, and proven features. Ideal for testing the market or entering rapidly.
- Custom: Best for businesses seeking long-term growth, strong brand identity, and scalability. Ideal for creating a unique, feature-rich platform capable of dominating the market.
With the right technology, monetization plan, and execution strategy, a Grubhub clone app can be a highly profitable venture in the booming food delivery industry.
In today’s competitive environment, it’s not just about launching fast—it’s about creating an engaging, reliable, and user-friendly platform that stands out and evolves with consumer expectations.