It's not technically an app (yet), but Traveling Spoon is worth opening up a browser for.
Imagine having a friend's mom prepare you a home-cooked meal in every country you visit. Traveling Spoon founders Stephanie Lawrence and Aashi Vel are making that a reality. Through the site, travelers can reserve a spot at the table of native hosts, all of whom have been vetted by the founders.
The "chefs" (25% of whom have a culinary background) will cook lunch or dinner ($20 to $60), or provide a cooking class and a market tour ($80 to $170).
"Culinary tourism is a catalyst for complete cultural exchange," said Lawrence. "Beyond making the world a smaller place, the program also provides valuable income to hosts working to support their families."
There are currently over 125 hosts in 35 cities across 14 countries. Lawrence and Vel have focused their efforts on southeast Asia but plan to expand to Greece soon.
