New York City is one of the most buzzed-about culinary destinations in the world. And as the city’s technology scene makes it own waves, it’s only natural that food and tech come together to create some truly interesting (and tasty) products. We’ve rounded up some of the coolest companies who are literally playing with food, and innovating the way we eat in the process.
When it comes to foodtech, there are few names more well-known than Grubhub. The company works with more than 80,000 restaurants across the country (and London) in order to bring your favorite foods directly to your door. Its user-friendly interface and commitment to customer satisfaction has made Grubhub a continued success since its founding in 2004.
Calling all adventurous eaters! Seated is a unique new platform that allows you to earn a $10-$50 reward credit toward Amazon, Lyft or Starbucks every time you dine out. Simply download Seated, discover new restaurants in your area, make a reservation — and by the time you’re done eating, you’re ready to enjoy your reward.
Ever tried to slice and dice a pineapple yourself? It ain’t easy. Thankfully, Daily Harvest is here to make sure you get your servings of superfoods, super easily. The celebrity-backed subscription service sends between six to 24 custom, pre-portioned cups to your doorstep each week. All you need to do is blend and enjoy.
Slice is bringing the power of big foodtech to local restaurants. While some smaller pie shops can’t compete on the larger delivery apps, Slice connects local pizzerias with hungry customers in their neighborhood, in addition to providing them with the data and analytics they need to build their brand. Currently, Slice serves more than 9,000 pizzerias in all 50 states.
Do you ever hear a little voice in the back of your head (maybe it sounds suspiciously like your grandma) that’s telling you to eat your vegetables? Hungryroot helps make veggie-centric meals, snacks and desserts that everyone can enjoy. The company is using the tech behind popular meal-kit distribution services to bring their uniquely healthy menu to the 94 percent of Americans who aren’t getting enough vegetables in their diet.
Cookbooks are delightful to peruse — until you try using one while you’re preparing a meal, and then all you’re left with is a recipe for sauce spilling across the pages. Alta Editions transforms classic and contemporary cookbooks into beautiful digital reads, accessible on a range of devices. Their technology also helps you find the perfect culinary ideas every time.
Because the best artisanal foods and goods are often hyperlocal, companies like Haywheel help connect shops and wholesalers with artisans ranging from a beekeeper in the Rocky Mountains to a soap miller in California. If you’re looking for some of the freshest products Earth has to offer, you’ll want to visit Haywheel.
Agriculture has evolved and adapted along with the rise and growth of cities. Square Roots Urban Growers is a Brooklyn-based collective that uses indoor farming technology to grow GMO-free leafy greens. City residents can sign up for a membership that will supply them with the freshest produce all year-round.