Terms and conditions of use

A Homlunch host serving a homemade meal to a guest in her home.
Homlunch is a digital platform that connects home kitchens (hereinafter referred to as "Hosts") with people who wish to enjoy their homemade meals (hereinafter referred to as "Users" or "Guests"). By accessing or using Homlunch, whether through the website or the mobile application, you agree to these Terms and Conditions of Use in their entirety. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you must refrain from using the platform. These terms apply equally to Hosts and Users, outlining how the platform works for both parties and establishing the rights and responsibilities of each within the territory of Mexico.

1. Definitions

• Homlunch: The technological platform (website and/or app) operated by us that facilitates contact between Hosts and Users for the offering and booking of homemade culinary experiences.

• Host: A natural person (owner of a home kitchen) registered on Homlunch who offers meals, lunches, or culinary experiences at their residence or another private location.

• User/Guest: A person who uses Homlunch to search for, book, and attend homemade meals offered by Hosts.

• Booking: An agreement generated through the platform whereby a User reserves a spot for a meal or culinary experience offered by a Host, in exchange for payment.

• Service: Refers to the intermediation service provided by Homlunch by connecting Hosts with Users, including the posting of offers, booking management, payment processing, and communication between parties.

2. Platform functionality

Homlunch acts solely as a facilitating intermediary between Hosts and Users. The platform allows Hosts to post homemade meal or gastronomic experience offers, specifying details such as the menu, dates, schedule, general location, and price per person. Users can search available offers (by type of food, location, date, etc.) and book the experiences they wish. Once a User requests a booking, the Host may confirm it (in the case of requests) or the platform may confirm it automatically if the offer is set to instant confirmation.

Relationship between parties: Homlunch is not the owner, producer, or seller of the meals offered. The culinary experience is provided directly by the Host to the User, establishing an independent contractual relationship between them. Homlunch only provides the tools for such a relationship to occur (listings, booking and payment systems, communications). Homlunch does not guarantee nor is responsible for the quality, taste, health compliance, or any other aspect of the meals offered by Hosts; however, it makes its best efforts to verify Hosts and provide a trustworthy platform.

Communications: All initial communication between Users and Hosts must take place through the messaging or contact features provided on the Homlunch platform. It is prohibited for Hosts and Users to exchange personal contact information (such as phone numbers, email addresses, or physical addresses) before a booking is confirmed, in order to protect the safety and privacy of both parties. Once a booking is confirmed, Homlunch may share certain contact details between the parties (e.g., phone number or exact address) so they can carry out the culinary experience.

3. User registration and account verification

To use Homlunch, both Hosts and Users must register with a truthful and complete account:

• Minimum age: Registration on the platform is only allowed for individuals over 18 years of age. By creating an account, you declare under oath that you are of legal age in Mexico. Homlunch is not intended for minors, and any accounts detected to be underage may be canceled and their data deleted.

• Registration information: You must provide current, accurate, and genuine personal information during registration, including full name, valid email address, mobile phone number, and in the case of Hosts, additional information about their kitchen or offered experience. Each user is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials and for all activities that occur under their account.

• Host verification: For security and trust purposes, Hosts must undergo a verification process. This may include, but is not limited to, identity verification (e.g., providing a copy of a valid official ID), address verification (utility bills or GPS location validation), and images of their kitchen or dishes offered. Additionally, the Host may be required to provide banking information for payment purposes (interbank CLABE, PayPal account, or other supported method). Homlunch reserves the right to request additional documentation and to approve or reject a Host if they do not meet the platform’s standards or requirements.

• User verification: In general, Users (guests) may register with the basic information mentioned above. Homlunch may implement additional verifications at its discretion, such as phone number verification via SMS code, email confirmation, or in some cases, identity verification—especially if the nature of the offered experiences warrants it.

• Single account: Each person (whether User or Host) must have only one account on Homlunch. It is not permitted to create multiple accounts for the same person or to create a false account or impersonate someone else. Homlunch may suspend or cancel duplicate accounts or those containing false information.

• Account protection: You are responsible for keeping your account secure. Do not share your password with third parties. Homlunch will never ask for your password. If there is unauthorized access or you suspect someone else knows your credentials, notify Homlunch immediately. Homlunch will not be liable for any damage or loss arising from your failure to comply with this security obligation.

  4. Reservations and payments

  When a User books a culinary experience through Homlunch, it creates mutual commitments between both parties regarding payment and the execution of the experience:

  Booking process: The User selects the desired offer from a Host and follows the booking process outlined on the platform. In some cases, the booking may require confirmation from the Host (who must respond within a specified timeframe); in other cases, the booking may be automatically confirmed if the Host has configured it that way. Once the booking is confirmed, both the User and the Host will receive a notification (via the app, email, and/or SMS) with the booking details (event location, time, number of people, etc.).

  User payment obligation: By making a booking, the User agrees to pay the amount indicated for the selected experience. Homlunch manages the online payment through the available methods on the platform (credit/debit card, bank transfers, e-wallets, or others). The User is typically charged at the time of booking (or upon confirmation, depending on the setup). Prices on the platform are shown in local currency (Mexican Pesos, MXN) unless otherwise stated, and include Homlunch’s commission and applicable taxes. The User authorizes Homlunch to charge the total booking price to their selected payment method once the booking is accepted by the Host.

  Homlunch commission: Homlunch charges a 30% commission on each confirmed booking. This commission is already included in the price displayed to the User at the time of booking. From the total paid by the User, the Host receives 70% (as compensation for providing the experience), and Homlunch retains the remaining 30% as a fee for using the platform. Part of this commission is used for internal benefits and platform improvements (e.g., loyalty programs, insurance, community promotion, etc.), without the need to provide a detailed breakdown. Note: The commission may be subject to taxes under Mexican fiscal law; Homlunch will calculate and withhold any applicable tax on its fee, and the Host is responsible for their own tax obligations related to income earned through the platform.

  Payment to the host: Homlunch will facilitate the transfer of the net payment to the Host (i.e., the booking price minus the 30% commission) once the culinary experience has successfully taken place. Generally, the payment is released shortly after the event date (e.g., within 24–48 hours), using the payment method the Host configured (e.g., bank account). However, Homlunch may temporarily withhold funds if any issues or disputes are reported regarding the booking (see Conflict Resolution section). The Host is responsible for providing accurate and up-to-date banking information; Homlunch is not liable for delayed or failed payments due to incorrect information provided by the Host.

  Currency and conversions: All transactions are conducted in Mexican Pesos (MXN). If payments in other currencies or from other countries are enabled in the future, Homlunch will disclose the applicable exchange rate or conversion fees before confirming the payment.

  Prohibition of off-platform payments: To protect all parties, Users and Hosts are not allowed to arrange direct payments outside of Homlunch for experiences listed on the platform. Any attempt to bypass the platform (e.g., canceling a confirmed booking to complete it off-platform) may result in suspension or removal of both the User and Host involved. Homlunch reserves the right to monitor interactions and take action if it detects behavior intended to circumvent the payment system.

  5. Cancellation and refund policies

  We understand that unforeseen events can happen. The following conditions apply to booking cancellations and potential refunds:

  Cancellation by the user (Diner): If a User needs to cancel a booking, they must do so through the Homlunch platform as soon as possible. The standard policy, unless the Host specifies otherwise in their experience description, is as follows:

  • Cancellations made at least 48 hours before the event: The User will receive a 100% refund (including Homlunch’s proportional commission). Note: Financial costs (e.g., bank fees for refunds) may be deducted if applicable.

  • Cancellations between 24 and 48 hours before the event: The User will receive a 50% refund. The remaining 50% is considered compensation for the Host for preparation and potential loss of opportunity.

  • Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the event, or no-shows without prior cancellation: No refund will be issued, and 100% of the amount will be charged as a penalty. This is because the Host likely already incurred costs and efforts in preparation.

  Important: Some experiences may have specific cancellation policies defined by the Host (e.g., special events, or menus requiring the advance purchase of expensive ingredients). These particular policies, if present, will be clearly stated in the experience listing. In such cases, the Host’s specific conditions override Homlunch’s standard policy.

  Cancellation by the host: If a Host needs to cancel a confirmed booking (due to force majeure or other reason), they must notify immediately via the platform so the User can be informed. In the case of a cancellation by the Host:

  • The User will receive a full refund (100%) of their payment. Homlunch absorbs the commission in these cases so the User gets their full money back.

  • Homlunch may, at its discretion, take action against the Host if cancellations are repeated or unjustified (e.g., temporarily suspend the Host from the platform), as this affects User trust.

  • Homlunch will attempt to assist the affected User by offering alternative options if available (e.g., bookings with other Hosts on the same date), although the User is not obligated to accept and may choose the refund.

  Cancellation by Homlunch: In exceptional circumstances, Homlunch may cancel a booking—for example, in cases of suspected fraud, violations of terms, or serious safety or health concerns. In such cases:

  • The User will receive a full refund if the cancellation is not due to their own misconduct.

  • If the cancellation results from the User’s misconduct (e.g., false information, prohibited use of the platform), Homlunch will evaluate whether a refund applies based on the situation.

  • Homlunch will notify both parties about the cancellation and provide a general explanation (unless legal reasons prevent disclosure of details).

  Refund procedure: When applicable, refunds will be processed through the same payment method used by the User. Please note that once issued by Homlunch, refunds may take several business days to appear in the User’s account or card, depending on their bank or payment provider.

  Modification of bookings: If a User wishes to modify the details of a confirmed booking (e.g., number of guests, date), they must contact the Host through the platform. Any changes are subject to the Host’s approval. Some modifications may incur additional costs (e.g., more guests may mean an extra payment), which must be agreed upon through the platform. If an agreement is reached, Homlunch will facilitate the additional payment. If no agreement is reached, the original booking remains or the User may cancel it (subject to the above policies).

  6. Host rights and responsibilities

  By joining Homlunch, Hosts agree to a series of responsibilities to ensure safe and satisfactory experiences for Users, along with certain rights in using the platform:

  Host responsibilities:

  • Food quality and safety: The Host agrees to prepare and offer food in good condition, safe for human consumption, respecting basic hygiene and food handling standards. They must inform Users of any allergens or unusual ingredients in their dishes, when relevant.

  • Accuracy of information: All information published in the listing must be accurate and complete. This includes dish/menu descriptions, number of available seats, time, general location (neighborhood or area), and any house rules (e.g., remove shoes, pets present, smoke-free space, etc.). Photos uploaded should reflect the actual experience (e.g., real food or the space where the meal will occur, as much as possible).

  • Booking fulfillment: By confirming a booking, the Host commits to carrying out the experience as agreed. They must be ready to receive the User(s) at the scheduled time and date, with food prepared as advertised. Only force majeure (illness, family emergency, major issue) may justify a last-minute cancellation or change, in which case they must immediately notify the User and Homlunch (see Cancellation section).

  • Safe and respectful environment: The Host must provide a safe and respectful environment. Courtesy and good service are expected. The space must be clean and secure. The Host must respect the privacy and dignity of Users during their visit. Any discriminatory, harassing, or violent behavior is strictly prohibited.

  • Legal compliance: The Host ensures that offering meals from their home or location is legal under applicable local regulations. It is their responsibility to obtain any necessary permits or licenses (e.g., health permits if required). Homlunch is not responsible for the Host’s noncompliance with legal or regulatory provisions, but may remove Hosts engaged in clearly illegal activities from the platform.

  • Use of the platform: The Host must use Homlunch tools for all communications, confirmations, and transactions with Users. They must not redirect Users to external services or request off-platform payments (see Payments section). Availability must be kept up to date; if the Host is temporarily unable to accept bookings (vacation, emergencies, etc.), they must deactivate or adjust their listings to avoid bookings they cannot fulfill.

  Host rights:

  • Set the terms of their offer: Within Homlunch’s general guidelines, the Host has the right to define the characteristics of their experience (type of food, menu, price, number of participants, available schedules, stricter cancellation policies if desired, etc.). Homlunch will not alter these terms as long as they are clear, reasonable, and properly communicated to Users before booking.

  • Receive payment for services: As described in the Payments section, after a confirmed experience is completed, the Host is entitled to receive the corresponding payment (minus the commission). Homlunch will process the payment, but in case of unusual delays or issues, the Host has the right to contact Homlunch for resolution.

  • Rate users: After hosting an experience, the Host may leave a rating or review about the User’s conduct (e.g., punctuality, respectfulness), helping to build trust in the community. Homlunch supports this two-way review functionality (see also User rights).

  • Support and assistance: Hosts have the right to contact Homlunch’s support team for any questions, technical issues, or disputes with Users. Homlunch will provide support channels (email, phone) to assist with issues during platform use.

7. User (Diner) rights and responsibilities

Likewise, users who book through Homlunch must fulfill certain responsibilities to ensure the smooth functioning of the community and are entitled to certain rights when using the service:

User Obligations:

Payment and attendance: The user agrees to pay promptly for the reservations they make, according to the platform's mechanisms. They also agree to attend the reserved experience at the agreed location, date, and time. If for any reason they are unable to attend, they must cancel the reservation in a timely manner through Homlunch (see Cancellation Policies). Failing to attend without prior notice ("no-show") negatively impacts both the Host and the platform's operation, and may result in penalties on the user's account after review.

Appropriate behavior: During the culinary experience at the Host’s home (or other designated venue), the user must behave respectfully and courteously. They must follow the Host’s reasonable rules (e.g., respecting off-limits areas of the home, hygiene norms like washing hands before eating, not smoking if requested, etc.). Any abusive, violent, harassing, or illegal behavior by the user toward the Host, their family, or property is strictly prohibited. The user will be liable for any material damage caused to the Host’s property during their visit, in accordance with applicable law.

Communication and honesty: The user must provide truthful information on the platform, both in their profile and when making a reservation (e.g., accurately indicating the number of attendees). If the user has special requests (e.g., dietary needs, allergies, or celebrating a special occasion), they must communicate them to the Host via Homlunch in advance. Significant allergies or dietary restrictions must be disclosed before or immediately after making the reservation so the Host can confirm whether accommodations can be made; otherwise, the user assumes the risk of no adaptations and releases both the Host and Homlunch from liability.

Good faith use of the platform: The user agrees to use Homlunch in good faith, genuinely seeking experiences and respecting the community model. They must not attempt to contact Hosts outside the platform before booking, nor propose direct payments (bypassing Homlunch). The platform must not be used for other purposes (e.g., recruiting Hosts for external businesses, unauthorized advertising, spamming, or inappropriate content).

Honest reviews: If the user chooses to leave a review or rating of a Host after an experience, it must be fair and truthful, based on their personal experience. While opinions are subjective, deliberately posting falsehoods to unfairly damage a Host’s reputation will not be tolerated. Homlunch reserves the right to moderate or remove reviews that violate our content policies (e.g., offensive language, discriminatory remarks, etc.).

User rights:

Receive the expected service: Once a reservation is confirmed and paid, the user has the right to receive the experience as advertised. This includes receiving the promised food or menu, in the stated quantities and quality, in a clean and safe environment, and at the agreed time. If upon arrival the experience significantly differs from what was advertised (e.g., food is not as described, hygiene is unacceptable, the Host is absent), the user must report it to Homlunch immediately to evaluate a possible refund or corrective action.

Cancellation according to policies: The user has the right to cancel reservations in accordance with the established cancellation policies (see section 5) and receive the applicable refund.

Data privacy: Except for essential information shared with the Host once a reservation is confirmed (e.g., name, possibly phone number, and essential experience details), the user has the right to have their personal data handled according to Homlunch's Privacy Policy. Hosts may only use the user's information to carry out the experience (e.g., coordinating arrival), not for unrelated purposes (e.g., unauthorized marketing).

Rate the host: After the experience, the user may rate the Host and leave a comment. This public feedback helps maintain service quality. Homlunch does not edit or censor user reviews unless they violate our content policies. Users have the right to express their opinions as long as they are respectful and honest.

Support and dispute resolution: The user has the right to contact the Homlunch team to report any issue, complaint, or dispute related to a reservation or interaction with a Host. Homlunch will make reasonable efforts to mediate and seek a fair solution (see Conflict Resolution section). If a user feels their safety was at risk or that a serious violation of these terms occurred, they must report it; Homlunch may take appropriate action, including suspending the Host.

8. User-generated content and intellectual property

Using Homlunch involves publishing and sharing content by both the platform and its users (Hosts and Diners). It is important to regulate this content and clarify ownership of intellectual property rights:

User content (including hosts): Hosts may upload photos of their dishes, their table or venue, profile pictures, meal descriptions, and profiles, and users may upload photos (e.g., after an experience) or write reviews. All content a user (Host or Diner) posts or submits to Homlunch remains the property of its creator. However, by uploading such content, the user grants Homlunch a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, transferable, and sublicensable license to use, reproduce, distribute, communicate, and publicly display the content solely for operating, promoting, or improving the platform. For example, Homlunch may show a photo of a dish on social media or promotional material, or use part of a positive review on the homepage. This license remains valid while the content is available on the platform and for a commercially reasonable time afterward in backups or system caches.

Responsibility for content: Anyone posting content on Homlunch guarantees they hold the necessary rights (e.g., they took the photo or have the photographer’s permission, or they authored the text) and that it does not infringe third-party rights (trademarks, copyrights, privacy, etc.). They also agree that the content is legal and compliant with these Terms (e.g., not defamatory, obscene, discriminatory, violent, etc.). Homlunch may remove or disable any content it believes violates these rules or has received a valid infringement claim.

Homlunch’s intellectual property: All elements of the Homlunch platform protected by intellectual property rights belong to Homlunch or its licensors. This includes, without limitation, the “Homlunch” name and logo, website and app design and source code, texts and graphics provided by Homlunch, databases, and any software used to provide the service. Copying, modifying, reusing, distributing, creating derivative works, or otherwise using Homlunch’s software, design, trademarks, or proprietary content without authorization is prohibited. Using the platform does not grant the User or Host any rights over Homlunch’s intellectual property beyond a limited, revocable license to use the platform while complying with these terms.

Use of trademarks and references: Users (Hosts or Diners) may not use the Homlunch brand, logos, or name outside the platform without prior written authorization. For example, a Host may not print business cards with the Homlunch logo for personal use without permission. However, they may identify themselves as platform participants (e.g., a Host may casually mention they offer experiences through Homlunch). Any authorized use of Homlunch’s brand must comply with brand guidelines.

Feedback: Any suggestion, idea, or feedback a user provides to Homlunch to improve the service or add features is considered non-confidential and may be freely used by Homlunch without compensation. Our goal is to continuously improve the platform, and community input is welcome—but contributions are voluntary and do not create co-authorship in platform development.

11. Modifications to the terms and conditions
Homlunch reserves the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Modifications are typically made to reflect changes in the service, adjustments due to new laws or regulations, the addition of security measures, among other reasons. When such changes occur, we will properly notify users:
Changes will be published on the website and in the app, with the “Last Updated” date at the top of the document (or in this section) being updated. We recommend Users and Hosts regularly review the Terms to stay informed about their current rights and obligations.
In the case of substantial changes (e.g., significantly altering cancellation policies, fees, or responsibilities), Homlunch may additionally send a notification via email to registered addresses or display a pop-up message when accessing the platform, informing about the modifications.
Acceptance of modifications: If you continue using Homlunch after the effective date of a modification, such use will constitute implicit acceptance of the new Terms and Conditions. If a User or Host disagrees with the changes, they may stop using the platform and, if desired, request to close their account. If a reservation is ongoing at the time of a modification, the conditions in effect at the time of the booking will apply to that specific transaction, unless the changes to the Terms are legally mandated (e.g., urgent regulatory updates regarding data protection).

12. Dispute resolution
At Homlunch, we hope experiences go smoothly, but in the event of a conflict, here is how to proceed:
Conflicts between user and host: If a User and a Host have a disagreement related to a booking (e.g., food quality, venue conditions, behavior, unforeseen refunds, damages, etc.), both parties commit to resolving it amicably through dialogue, preferably using the platform to keep a record. If they cannot resolve the issue directly, they must notify Homlunch within 24 hours of the event (or the time of the incident). Homlunch may act as an informal mediator: we will review available information (messages on the platform, photos, testimonies) and propose a fair solution based on our policies and common sense. This mediation is not legally binding, but in most cases, it is expected that the parties will accept Homlunch’s recommendation to maintain community harmony. For example, Homlunch might decide to issue a partial refund to the User, charging the Host accordingly if the experience was subpar, or determine that no refund is justified if the complaint lacks merit.
Holding of funds during disputes: If there is an ongoing dispute, Homlunch may temporarily withhold reservation funds until it is resolved. Once resolved (via mutual agreement, Homlunch mediation, or an external decision), Homlunch will distribute the funds accordingly (to the Host, the User, or both) or process the corresponding refunds.
Exclusion of Homlunch from legal disputes: Homlunch is not a party to the final contractual relationship between Host and User (we act as a facilitating intermediary). Therefore, if the conflict escalates into a formal legal dispute between them, both parties release Homlunch from any responsibility or obligation stemming from such dispute, beyond what is agreed upon in these Terms. However, Homlunch may provide (upon legal request) relevant system records, such as communication logs, to assist in resolving any legal proceedings, always respecting data privacy according to the law.
Complaints against Homlunch: If the conflict or complaint is directly against Homlunch (e.g., the User believes Homlunch did not fulfill its obligations, or the Host believes an action or omission by Homlunch caused them harm), the complainant must contact Homlunch through the provided Contact channels, including all relevant details. Homlunch will internally review and attempt to resolve the matter in good faith within a reasonable timeframe. If the User or Host remains unsatisfied, they may proceed with legal action as outlined in the Jurisdiction section.

13. Governing law and jurisdiction
These Terms and Conditions are governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the United Mexican States (Mexico). This means that, regardless of where the User or Host accesses the platform from, the applicable legal framework for this usage agreement will be Mexican law. If a controversy or claim arises that cannot be resolved amicably or through Homlunch’s mediation, the parties agree to submit to the jurisdiction of the competent courts in Mexico, waiving any other jurisdiction that may apply based on their current or future residence. Generally, if Homlunch has a legal domicile (e.g., in a Mexican city), proceedings will be handled in that jurisdiction; otherwise, a suitable location in Mexico will be chosen in accordance with procedural rules. It is important to note that Homlunch is committed to complying with consumer protection laws and other applicable digital platform regulations in Mexico. If any provision of these Terms is declared invalid or unenforceable by a competent authority, that provision will be interpreted as closely as possible to its original intent within the law, and the remaining provisions will remain valid and enforceable.

14. Final provisions
entire agreement: These Terms and Conditions, along with Homlunch’s Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between Users (Hosts and Diners) and Homlunch regarding use of the platform, and replace any prior understandings or agreements (oral or written) related to this matter. Any waiver of any section must be in writing and signed by an authorized Homlunch representative.
No employment or partnership relationship: Participation in Homlunch by Hosts is voluntary and at their own risk. No employment, partnership, agency, or franchise relationship exists between Homlunch and the Hosts solely due to their use of the platform. Hosts act independently as providers of home-cooked meals. Similarly, Homlunch is not the employer or representative of Users. Nothing in these Terms shall be interpreted as creating any legal relationship other than that of independent contractors.
Assignment of rights: Users may not transfer their rights or obligations under these Terms to third parties without prior written consent from Homlunch. However, Homlunch may assign this agreement (e.g., in case of merger, acquisition, or asset sale) by notifying affected users.
Term: These Terms apply from the moment the user accepts them and for as long as they use the platform. Some obligations, by their nature, will survive the termination of the contractual relationship, such as intellectual property clauses, disclaimers, indemnification, and jurisdiction; these obligations will remain in effect even if the user stops using Homlunch or their account is closed.

15. Contact
For any questions, clarifications, suggestions, or requests related to these Terms and Conditions or the operation of Homlunch, you can contact us through the following customer service channels:
Email: hello@homlunch.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +52 1 999 782 4121
We will respond to your inquiry as soon as possible. If you experience an issue with the platform, we recommend including as much detail as possible (e.g., screenshot of the error, reservation ID, etc.) to help us assist you more efficiently. Thank you for being part of Homlunch! We hope you enjoy amazing home-cooked food experiences with our community.