DoorDash has unveiled Zesty, a cutting-edge AI-driven app designed to enhance restaurant discovery for users. Initially launched in the San Francisco Bay Area and New York, Zesty aims to streamline the process of finding new dining spots, moving beyond DoorDash’s core food delivery service.
Zesty’s innovative features allow users to engage with an AI chatbot after signing in with their DoorDash accounts. This chatbot can provide tailored recommendations based on specific user prompts. For instance, users might seek “a low-key dinner in Williamsburg that’s actually good for introverts,” with the app responding with curated suggestions. In addition to responding to personalized queries, Zesty offers suggested prompts, including categories like “brunch spots good for groups” and “romantic dinner with a vintage feel.”
According to DoorDash co-founder Andy Fang, the app consolidates information from various sources, including DoorDash, Google Maps, and TikTok, to deliver comprehensive recommendations. The app also adapitates to user preferences, helping to refine suggestions over time. Users can save interesting recommendations, share them, and contribute their own photos and reviews, mimicking social networking dynamics within the restaurant sphere.
The launch of Zesty has sparked discussions about its practicality, especially as some users may prefer established platforms like Google for restaurant searches. However, for those eager to engage in a dedicated social network focused on culinary exploration, Zesty offers a refreshing alternative.
This rollout represents a strategic shift for DoorDash, reflecting its efforts to diversify beyond delivery services. Earlier in the year, the company introduced features enabling in-person dining reservations and the accumulation of in-store rewards, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the food discovery experience.
