Upgrading the restaurant delivery platform: Twelve Must-Have Functionalities for the Year Ahead

In the dynamic space of online food delivery, consumers expect speed, precision, customization, and an seamless experience.

As global demand for online food ordering expands—expected to reach over USD 466 Billion by the next two years—businesses must stay ahead by optimizing their ordering platforms with the necessary mix of features, user-centric design, and cutting-edge tech.

Whether you're launching a custom UberEats-style app or starting your own ready-made ordering system, understanding what ensures user engagement and operational efficiency is critical.

1. Seamless Onboarding and Account Creation

The user’s first touchpoint is crucial. A quick sign-up process sets the tone for a frictionless user journey. Allow users to get started using social logins, and offer optional preferences like order history to personalize future menus.

2. Live Delivery Tracking with Map Integration

Today’s users expect transparency. By adding map-based tracking, you increase engagement. Let users to watch:
- Live courier position
- ETA
- Stage-by-stage tracking

3. Advanced Search and Filter Options

An powerful discovery system is necessary as your ecosystem scales. Use segmentation like:
- Cuisine
- Health filter
- Speed filter
- Budget

Pair it with smart suggestions for a unique user experience.

4. Secure In-App Payments

To speed up checkout, integrate:
- Cards
- Wallets
- Loyalty points

Ensure safety with industry standards. Digital-only payment is a must.

5. Loyalty Programs & Referral Bonuses

User retention is more valuable than new acquisition. Add:
- Gamified incentives
- Tier levels
- Refer-and-earn

This can increase customer trust.

6. Delivery Partner App + Route Optimization}

Drivers need a feature-rich app to manage tasks:
- Turn-by-turn directions
- Wallet
- Customer chat

Optimized routes save time.

7. Admin and Restaurant Dashboards

Equip your partners and team with:
- Inventory tools
- Analytics
- Conflict resolution

Restaurants should effortlessly track orders.

8. Device Responsiveness

Your multi-platform app support app should perform seamlessly on:
- iOS
- Google Play
- Web

Use React Native for cost savings.

9. Push Notifications & Engagement Triggers

Keep users informed with:
- Order status
- Coupons
- Abandoned cart nudges

Apps with strong notification strategies enjoy better click-through.

10. AI-Powered Personalization

Use AI to:
- Suggest meals
- Study behavior
- Create upsells

This can increase engagement rate.

11. Reviews & Ratings

Let customers from kitchen to doorstep voice feedback with:
- Star ratings
- Written reviews
- Service recovery

Positive reviews build credibility.

12. Scalability & Cloud-Based Architecture

Use serverless personalized UX in ordering platforms solutions for:
- Real-time syncing
- Performance scaling
- User traffic

This hardens your app for massive adoption.

Final Thoughts

The food delivery industry is about more than just getting mealsit’s about creating satisfaction.

By including these strategic tools, your app can thrive in the 2025 landscape.

Looking for a faster launch? **Oyelabs’ UberEats clone** provides a ready-made solution to help you dominate locally.