Hungry Los Angeles residents have something to be excited about: Foodie Shares, a recently launched app that connects chefs and food lovers.

The membership-based food marketplace aims to create a neighborhood type of community, where chefs can share their work with area residents. Also, its memberships are free.

Foodie Shares connects food lovers with chefs, allowing them to establish an ongoing dialogue. This is different than traditional delivery apps, where transactions end once the food is delivered.

Chefs post their creations on the app, where all users can browse the available dishes. Options include an array of ethnic cuisines, as well as diet-specific menus including sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based, nut-free, organic or vegan. To order delivery or interact with the Foodie Shares community, a membership (free) is required.

App users can view each chef's profile, where there individual reviews of dishes posted by other members along with ratings of quality and service. Members can reserve or preorder dishes, send private messages to the chef and be notified when their newest dishes post. Chefs determine whether food can be picked up or delivered; they can choose to deliver themselves or use the app's delivery partner.

Chefs, the majority of which have culinary school backgrounds, apply for membership and approval by Foodie Shares staff. Each chef creates a profile with a personal image, background information, cooking interests and specialties. Chefs also upload "foodiefolios" of their culinary creations, choosing to post dishes for the coming week in limited quantities or as preorder options. They have control over how the cost and availability of their dishes.

George Mathew, CEO and co-founder, developed the app at the request of his wife, Serelyn, a former professional chef who now cooks at home.

"Our friends wanted to be notified when she made food. She also wanted to share her food in an easy way. Thus, the concept of Foodie Shares was born," says Mathew.

"Foodie Shares makes the interaction between chef and food lover much less anonymous, and we are thrilled to be able change the way foodies engage with chefs and vice versa," says Ryan Oehm, co-founder. "Chefs also value the opportunity to engage with our members and receive ongoing feedback. Both parties gain in building this community."

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