[btown]

I love this! As someone who recently left NYC for NJ to quarantine and who regrets not taking advantage of these restaurant experiences while in the city - have you thought about "pickup tourism?" Assuming things can be chilled for long enough, someone within a reasonable distance could drive into NYC to a distribution center near one of the tunnels, you hand off a bag at a scheduled time, they drive home, and enjoy their meal! I don't know what the parking logistics would be, and I personally might be a bit far to viably benefit (sadly!), but you could rapidly expand your range with minimal driver coordination, for everyone in the larger metropolitan area who would be willing to drive a bit for a one-of-a-kind experience. No other model could do this, because you need really unique inventory and a reputation for the same, but it's incredible that you've done that sourcing and negotiation!

[dealmak3r]

Hum interesting! We certainly want to serve folks just like you. We're actually thinking about hiring refrigerated vans and driving out on a route - with sufficient density it might work. Or maybe UPS the food?

[lazerpants]

Once you start overnighting the food you're competing with Goldbelly, which already has considerable scale but lacks focus and doesn't really have a defined "indulgent tasting menu experience" category (the dinners are there but you sort of have to find them yourself). You might be able to compete pretty well but I imagine the logistics get expensive quick with shipping and packaging. Plus you almost certainly will run into problems with shipping laws for alcohol pairings (same problem with driving into NJ, unfortunately), which in my mind is a key purchase driver that sets you apart from competitors.

This is a cool idea and something my wife and I will almost certainly use. DMing you some ideas about scalability that you're welcome to take or leave.

[dealmak3r]

Cool thanks! I've tried Goldbelly and the issue is it's not 'fun' nor is it really nice. Seems there is a big focus on nostalgia, which is not what I'm after... it'll be interesting to see how things unfold