The dishKarma Vision

As we continue working to launch version 1 of the dishKarma application, many have asked what we’re ultimately hoping to create.  Our goal is to improve individual dining experiences by developing a unique recommendation engine that takes the guesswork out of not only where to eat, but more importantly what to order.  At the same time, the site will help those less fortunate by leveraging corporate partnerships that provide food related charitable donations.

So, what might this look like?

You'll begin by creating your personal menu through the dishKarma site or mobile application. Add as many of your favorite dishes as you can remember, course by course, from restaurants around the world.  Then, each time you experience a remarkable new dish, add it to your menu so you can share and compare it with others. Your menu will constantly evolve based on new discoveries and suggestions from the dishKarma community.

How will this be useful?

Imagine you’re strolling through a city for the first time and decide you’re craving a burger.  Where do you begin?  You could stop someone on the street, search Google on your cell or tap into a restaurant review site.  While this exercise will result in a number of restaurants to choose from, you may be left wondering which option is most likely to satisfy your personal craving. 

Maybe you like it veggie, or with all the fixings?  dishKarma will suggest the best place to find that burger based on the dishes you’ve enjoyed in the past.  You can also make your selection based on the recommendations of your friends or community members who are also using the service.

If you’re not in the mood for anything in particular, the application can suggest a number of dishes you might enjoy in that location based on the dishes you’ve historically added to your ultimate menu.  Think of this like Amazon recommending a book based on your reading habits.

If that dish lives up to your expectations, and it’s worthy of joining your running list of favorites, add it to your ultimate menu.  Each time you add a dish and share it with your social network, one meal is donated to a local food bank through Feeding America.  This is where our corporate partner program comes into play.  Each time you share a dish, we all share a dish. 

Together we can create a powerful and personal recommendation engine that satisfies our taste buds, while also helping to feed those in need.  Like what you’ve heard so far? Stay tuned and let us know what features and functionality you’re hoping to see with dishKarma.