In the dynamic world of food and dining, UrbanSpoon, now known as Zomato, has carved a niche for itself as a go-to platform for food enthusiasts and hungry diners alike. Launched in 2004, this restaurant review and food discovery platform has grown exponentially, offering a comprehensive database of restaurants, cafes, and eateries across the globe.
Understanding UrbanSpoon: A Brief History
UrbanSpoon was founded by Mike Curtis and Adam Doppelt in Seattle, Washington. The platform started as a simple restaurant review site, allowing users to rate and review their dining experiences. However, it quickly evolved into a comprehensive food discovery engine, incorporating features like restaurant listings, menus, photos, and user-generated content.
In 2010, UrbanSpoon merged with its Australian counterpart, Urbanspoon Pty Ltd, expanding its reach to the Asia Pacific region. The following year, it was acquired by the Indian company, Info Edge (India) Pvt. Ltd., which later rebranded it as Zomato in 2015.

Key Features of UrbanSpoon/Zomato
Restaurant Listings and Reviews
At its core, UrbanSpoon/Zomato offers an extensive database of restaurant listings, complete with contact information, operating hours, and cuisines served. Users can leave reviews and ratings, helping others make informed dining decisions. The platform also features professional reviews from its in-house critics.
Food Delivery and Table Reservations
UrbanSpoon/Zomato has expanded its services to include food delivery and table reservations. Through its partnership with restaurants, users can order food online and have it delivered to their doorstep. Similarly, the table reservation feature allows users to secure a table at their favorite restaurants with just a few clicks.
Zomato Gold and Other Loyalty Programs
Zomato Gold is a premium subscription service that offers users exclusive perks and discounts at partner restaurants. Other loyalty programs, such as Zomato Piggybank, allow users to earn and redeem Zomato credits for future orders.

Impact of UrbanSpoon/Zomato on the Food Industry
UrbanSpoon/Zomato has significantly transformed the food industry, both for consumers and businesses. For consumers, the platform provides a one-stop-shop for dining information, helping them discover new restaurants and make informed decisions. For businesses, it offers a powerful marketing tool, allowing them to reach a wider audience and engage with customers.
Moreover, UrbanSpoon/Zomato has played a crucial role in shaping food trends. By tracking user searches and reviews, the platform can identify emerging trends and popular cuisines, providing valuable insights for restaurants and food businesses.
UrbanSpoon/Zomato: A Global Presence
Today, UrbanSpoon/Zomato operates in numerous countries across the globe, including India, Australia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, it has become a trusted name in the food discovery space, connecting millions of users with their next great meal.

| Users | Restaurants Listed | Countries Operated In |
|---|---|---|
| 100+ million | 1.4 million+ | 24 |
Sources: Zomato, TechCrunch, and Statista.






















