Silvana Valdovinos

Written by Silvana Valdovinos

Published: 31 Oct 2025

32-facts-about-grubhub
Source: Bloomberg.com

Grubhub has become a household name for food delivery, but how much do you really know about it? Founded in 2004, this platform has transformed how we order meals, making it easier than ever to get your favorite dishes delivered straight to your door. From its humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming a major player in the food delivery industry, Grubhub has a fascinating story. Did you know that it partners with over 300,000 restaurants across the United States? Or that it processes millions of orders each month? Whether you're a frequent user or just curious, these 32 facts about Grubhub will surprise you.

Table of Contents

What is Grubhub?

Grubhub is a popular online and mobile food ordering and delivery platform. It connects diners with local restaurants, making it easy to order food from the comfort of home. Here are some fascinating facts about Grubhub.

  1. Founded in 2004: Grubhub was established by Matt Maloney and Mike Evans in Chicago. They aimed to simplify the food ordering process.

  2. Initial Focus: Initially, Grubhub focused on providing a digital menu for restaurants, allowing customers to browse and order online.

  3. First Acquisition: In 2013, Grubhub acquired Seamless, another food delivery service, expanding its reach significantly.

  4. Public Company: Grubhub went public in April 2014, trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "GRUB."

  5. Partnerships: Grubhub has partnered with over 300,000 restaurants across the United States.

  6. Global Reach: Although primarily operating in the U.S., Grubhub has expanded its services to the United Kingdom and other international markets.

How Grubhub Works

Understanding how Grubhub operates can give insight into its success and popularity. Here are some key operational facts.

  1. User-Friendly App: The Grubhub app is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for users to browse menus, place orders, and track deliveries.

  2. Real-Time Tracking: Customers can track their orders in real-time, knowing exactly when their food will arrive.

  3. Payment Options: Grubhub accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and even Venmo.

  4. Customer Reviews: Users can leave reviews and ratings for restaurants, helping others make informed choices.

  5. Promotions and Discounts: Grubhub frequently offers promotions and discounts, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious diners.

  6. Subscription Service: Grubhub+ is a subscription service offering unlimited free delivery on orders over a certain amount.

Grubhub's Impact on Restaurants

Grubhub has significantly impacted the restaurant industry, providing new opportunities and challenges. Here are some ways it has influenced restaurants.

  1. Increased Sales: Many restaurants have seen a boost in sales by partnering with Grubhub.

  2. Marketing Exposure: Being listed on Grubhub provides restaurants with additional marketing exposure.

  3. Operational Changes: Some restaurants have had to adjust their operations to handle the increased volume of delivery orders.

  4. Commission Fees: Grubhub charges restaurants a commission fee for each order, which has been a point of contention for some.

  5. Virtual Kitchens: The rise of virtual kitchens, which operate solely for delivery, has been partly driven by platforms like Grubhub.

Grubhub's Technological Innovations

Grubhub has leveraged technology to enhance its services and improve user experience. Here are some technological innovations associated with Grubhub.

  1. AI and Machine Learning: Grubhub uses AI and machine learning to optimize delivery routes and predict delivery times.

  2. Voice Ordering: Integration with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa allows users to place orders using voice commands.

  3. Personalized Recommendations: The platform offers personalized restaurant recommendations based on user preferences and order history.

  4. Order Customization: Users can customize their orders with special instructions, ensuring they get exactly what they want.

  5. Mobile Wallet Integration: Grubhub supports mobile wallet payments, making transactions quick and secure.

Grubhub's Social Responsibility

Grubhub is also involved in various social responsibility initiatives, aiming to give back to the community. Here are some of their efforts.

  1. Grubhub Community Relief Fund: Established to support delivery drivers and restaurants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

  2. Sustainability Efforts: Grubhub has initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as promoting eco-friendly packaging.

  3. Charitable Donations: The company has donated millions to various charitable organizations and causes.

  4. Driver Support: Grubhub offers various support programs for its delivery drivers, including insurance and financial assistance.

Fun Facts About Grubhub

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Grubhub that might surprise you.

  1. Most Popular Cuisine: American cuisine is the most ordered type of food on Grubhub.

  2. Busiest Day: The busiest day for Grubhub orders is typically Super Bowl Sunday.

  3. Largest Order: The largest single order on Grubhub was worth over $1,000.

  4. Celebrity Users: Many celebrities have been known to use Grubhub, including Chrissy Teigen and John Legend.

  5. Unique Orders: Some users have placed unique orders, such as requesting a single pickle or a cup of ice.

  6. Customer Loyalty: Grubhub has a high customer retention rate, with many users ordering multiple times a month.

Grubhub Facts Recap

Grubhub's journey from a small startup to a major player in the food delivery industry is nothing short of impressive. With over 300,000 restaurant partners, it’s clear that Grubhub has made a significant impact on how we order food. The platform's user-friendly interface, real-time tracking, and diverse cuisine options make it a go-to choice for many.

Grubhub's commitment to supporting local restaurants and offering various payment options adds to its appeal. Whether you're craving sushi, pizza, or a hearty burger, Grubhub has you covered. The company's focus on customer satisfaction and continuous innovation ensures it remains a top contender in the food delivery market.

So next time hunger strikes, remember these facts about Grubhub. They might just make your ordering experience a bit more interesting. Happy eating!

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