DoorDash is testing a new way for consumers to find nearby restaurants.
On Monday, the delivery company unveiled Zesty, a stand-alone app that uses AI to generate local restaurant recommendations. The app aggregates data from Google Maps, TikTok, Reddit, Eater and other sources, including DoorDash itself.
A beta version of Zesty is live now in New York City and San Francisco. On the home page, users see a map of their area, with a search bar that invites them to “build your going out vibe.”
There are some suggested prompts, such as “nearby spots that open late night” and “brunch spots good for groups,” as well as a search bar where they can type in a query. Zesty then recommends some restaurants that fit the criteria, with details such as address, phone number, website, food pictures and a description that is seemingly AI-generated.
Users can also post pictures and a review of their dining experiences, with the option to rate restaurants as “Loved this!”, “Kinda mid” or “Not for me.” Posts appear in a social feed along with those of other users, or “Zesties.” Zesties can follow one another, and there is a leader board of Top Zesties.
The company said the app is designed to serve a different need than the regular DoorDash app. While the delivery app is focused on ordering and efficiency, Zesty is more casual, social and geared toward going out. Keeping the two apps separate allows them to maintain their distinct identities.
A DoorDash spokesperson said the company is “always looking for new ways to help people connect with the best of their communities,” and Zesty is part of that. “We’re excited to learn from early testers as we keep shaping what local discovery can look like,” the spokesperson said.
DoorDash said it’s currently focused on proving Zesty’s product market fit, but that as it grows, it expects to use the app to drive customers into the rest of its ecosystem. Right now, customers can start an order in Zesty, but will be transferred to the DoorDash app for checkout. Reservations are not available yet.
Restaurants that use DoorDash won't be prioritized to the app, the company said. The software is designed to provide the best match for their stated criteria and preferences.
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