Spotlight

Inspiration

We were frustrated with endless scrolling through business listings and complex filters. We wanted to make finding local businesses as easy as asking a friend. With Yelp's AI API, we built a conversational assistant that understands what you're really looking for.

What it does

Spotlight lets you discover local businesses through natural conversations. Just chat with our AI - "Find a quiet coffee shop for working" - and get personalized recommendations from Yelp's database. You can compare businesses, make reservations, and save your favorites, all through simple conversation.

How we built it

• Frontend: React + TypeScript + Vite
• Backend: Node.js + Express
• AI: Yelp AI API for intelligent recommendations
• Database: MongoDB for user data
• Auth: JWT tokens + bcrypt
• Deployed: Render (separate frontend/backend)

Challenges we ran into

1. API Rate Limits - Solved with smart caching (5-min TTL) that reduced calls by 80%
2. Location Coverage - Built intelligent detection to handle Yelp's US/Canada focus
3. Deployment Structure - Separated backend/frontend for Render's architecture
4. Type Consistency - Centralized TypeScript definitions across services

Accomplishments that we're proud of

• Natural chat interface that feels like texting a friend
• 80% reduction in API calls through optimization
• Full-stack production deployment on Render
• Secure authentication with saved businesses
• Smart location handling for accurate recommendations

What we learned

• Yelp AI API integration and optimization
• Real-time chat UI/UX patterns
• API caching strategies
• Cloud deployment best practices
• Balancing AI intelligence with user control

What's next for Spotlight

• Voice input for hands-free discovery
• Social features to share recommendations
• Interactive maps and neighborhood exploration
• Multi-language support for global expansion
• Business owner dashboard and analytics

Built With

• bcrypt
• express.js
• jwt
• lucide-react
• mongodb
• node.js
• react
• render
• tailwindcss
• typescript
• vite
• yelp-ai-api