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Zomato has launched Host Mode across India, giving hosts greater privacy during group food orders on its platform. Launched on November 3, 2026, the feature hides menu prices and cart totals while guests select dishes together. The host can reveal the complete bill after exiting the mode and verifying identity through device authentication.
The update addresses an awkward part of treating friends or family, as guests sometimes avoid preferred dishes after seeing prices. Some diners choose cheaper options or ask the person paying to decide, even when hosts encourage free choices. Host Mode removes that pressure by keeping item costs, estimated totals, and other pricing details out of sight.
Customers need the latest Zomato app version to access the feature on their devices. The Host Mode option appears on the home screen, restaurant menu pages, and under Profile > Your preferences. After selecting it, the host must tap 'Switch on Host Mode' before handing the phone to guests.
Guests can browse restaurant menus and add preferred dishes to the cart without viewing individual prices. Zomato displays the message, 'All prices are hidden in Host Mode,' while guests continue choosing their food. The cart total and bill estimates also remain hidden until the host decides to review the order.
When everyone finishes choosing, the host can tap 'Exit host mode to review bill' to regain access. The app requests a fingerprint, face lock, or device passcode before displaying the complete bill. The host can check item costs, discounts, and savings before deciding whether to place the order.
Only the host can restore price visibility, keeping the final spending decision with the person paying. The feature does not restrict guests from adding expensive dishes, so hosts still need to check the bill. It instead separates food selection from price discussions, making shared ordering less uncomfortable for guests.
Zomato said a customer suggested the idea on social media, prompting CEO Deepinder Goyal to respond positively. The company reportedly developed and launched the feature within 72 hours of receiving the suggestion. Its nationwide rollout arrives ahead of the festive season, when families and friends often order food together.
Host Mode gives hosts control over spending while allowing guests to choose dishes without price-related hesitation.
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