There are several differentiators between Zoodango's search and sites such as Google, Citysearch and Yelp.
The main difference is that while the other sites do searches based on a keyword, Zoodango relies on geo-searches. This is particularly helpful if, say, you are planning an evening out and want to get coffee, eat dinner and go to a bar afterwards.
"Zoodango's search engine allows you to browse everything in a particular geography even if you don't know exactly what you are looking for," James Sun, the company's CEO told The Industry Standard.
"Citysearch and Yelp are really about reviews to help you make a decision," he explained.
Zoodango, on the other hand, is trying to use "intelligent location" to help you make a decision.
The site has two other interesting search features.
The first is a comparison based rating system. While Yelp might show you the same rating for multiple Chinese restaurants in a city, Zoodango ranks all Chinese restaurants against each other, based on user feedback. There is never a tie.
Perhaps the most interesting feature Zoodango's search offers is real-time personalized venue scores. Based on how much you like restaurants and businesses that you have rated, Zoodango's algorithms will predict other venues that you might like.
Currently, the service is only available in Seattle, Portland and San Francisco but Sun said the company will be adding new metro areas every month. Coming next are Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, Tucson, Las Vegas and Reno.
Soon to come will also be a revenue stream other than basic online advertising.
"We are launching our "deals" platform," Sun said. "This is a premium subscription model that gives users access to local deals like "20% off" or a "2 for 1 meal." The company also plans to license its proprietary geo-search engine.