Airbnb is expanding beyond lodging by integrating chef-prepared meals directly into its platform through a new partnership with CookUnity. The move allows guests—and even locals—to order gourmet, ready-to-heat meals in advance of their stay or without booking accommodation at all. This collaboration positions Airbnb as a comprehensive travel service, tackling not just where to stay but also what to eat.
Convenience and Expansion of Airbnb Services
Airbnb has been steadily adding services beyond rentals, aiming to become a one-stop shop for travel logistics. The integration of CookUnity into Airbnb Services streamlines the dining experience for travelers, removing the need for separate food delivery apps or grocery shopping. According to Airbnb’s chief business officer, Dave Stephenson, the partnership “fits perfectly into the ethos…offering guests more convenience, comfort and value.”
How CookUnity Works: Direct-to-Consumer Chef Network
CookUnity operates by partnering directly with established chefs, giving them a platform to reach diners without the overhead of traditional restaurants. Meals are prepared in small batches to maintain quality, then delivered fresh in sustainable packaging. The Airbnb partnership will feature meals from renowned chefs like Esther Choi, Cat Cora, and José Garces, offering a diverse range of culinary styles.
The Appeal for Travelers and Locals
The service targets multiple audiences:
– Families arriving late at their rental and needing a quick dinner.
– Business travelers seeking reliable meals between meetings.
– Local users of Airbnb Services who aren’t necessarily booking a stay.
This is a strategic move because it offers a higher-quality alternative to standard takeout, with less expense than dining out. CookUnity’s founder and CEO, Mateo Marietti, emphasizes their mission to make chef-crafted meals “more accessible.”
Availability and Future Expansion
CookUnity meal bundles are available now to select Airbnb users in parts of the US, with plans to roll out to additional US markets and Canada throughout the year. The partnership represents a new direction for Airbnb, blurring the lines between travel logistics and everyday convenience services.
This expansion underscores a broader trend: travel companies are increasingly offering bundled services to enhance customer loyalty and capture more spending within their ecosystems. Airbnb’s move into prepared meals is a logical step toward becoming a complete travel platform.
