Food delivery platform Zomato has launched a new feature called Host Mode, aimed at making group food ordering more comfortable by hiding menu prices from guests while allowing hosts to retain control over the final bill. The new feature, which is now available to users across India, enables guests to browse restaurant menus and add dishes to the cart without seeing the cost of individual items. Hosts can later review the complete bill and place the order after authenticating with a passcode, fingerprint, or face lock.
Feature inspired by customer feedback
The idea was developed and rolled out on the app within 72 hours, with the goal of making social hosting and food ordering more seamless for customers, according to Zomato. The company revealed that Host Mode originated from a suggestion shared by a Zomato customer on social media.
The feature addresses a common social situation where guests often hesitate to order their preferred dishes when someone else is paying, according to Zomato. The company said many diners tend to choose less expensive items or leave the decision to the host, while hosts typically want their guests to order freely without worrying about the cost. The company said the feature is particularly relevant during the festive season, when families and friends frequently gather and order food together.
Users can activate the feature by tapping the Host Mode option available on the app’s home screen, restaurant menu pages, or through the preferences section in their profile. The launch adds to Zomato’s ongoing efforts to introduce features aimed at improving user experience on its food delivery platform, particularly around social and group ordering occasions.