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rails-eats Backend v1

A Ruby on Rails backend for the rails-eats food discovery application, developed as a phase 5 project for Flatiron School. This version provides API endpoints for efficient food location services.

Repository

rails-eats Backend v1

Project Overview

rails-eats Backend v1 was developed as part of the phase 5 project for Flatiron School in Houston, Texas. This Ruby on Rails application serves as the backend for the rails-eats food discovery platform, aiming to streamline the process of finding dining options quickly and efficiently.

Note: This project is no longer in active development. For the latest version, please see EATS 2024.

Key Features

  • Efficient Food Discovery API: Provides endpoints for quick and relevant food option retrieval.
  • Location Services: Enables easy access to restaurant locations.
  • Data Management: Handles persistence of restaurant and user preference data.
  • Scalable Architecture: Designed to support the frontend's user-friendly interface.

Technologies Used

  • Framework: Ruby on Rails
  • Database: PostgreSQL (or specify if different)
  • API Design: RESTful principles
  • Ruby Version: 2.6.1

Development Goals

  1. Rapid Food Search: Implemented algorithms to return relevant dining options quickly.
  2. Location Integration: Developed endpoints to provide accurate and easily accessible location data.
  3. Performance Optimization: Focused on response time optimization for a seamless user experience.
  4. Scalability: Designed the backend to handle potential growth in user base and data volume.

Setup and Installation

To set up the rails-eats Backend v1 locally:

  1. Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/your-username/rails-eats-backend-v1.git
  2. Navigate to the project directory: cd rails-eats-backend-v1
  3. Ensure Ruby 2.6.1 is installed
  4. Install dependencies: bundle install
  5. Configure database settings and environment variables
  6. Set up the database: rails db:create db:migrate
  7. Start the server: rails server

The API will be accessible at http://localhost:3000.

API Endpoints

(List and briefly describe the main API endpoints, e.g.:)

  • GET /api/restaurants: Retrieves a list of nearby restaurants.
  • GET /api/restaurants/:id: Fetches detailed information about a specific restaurant.
  • POST /api/user_preferences: Saves user dining preferences.

Challenges and Solutions

  • Data Efficiency: Optimized database queries to ensure quick retrieval of relevant restaurant data.
  • Location Accuracy: Implemented precise geolocation services for accurate restaurant recommendations.
  • User Experience: Designed API responses to support a smooth and intuitive frontend interface.

Conclusion

rails-eats Backend v1 demonstrates my ability to create a robust backend system that addresses a real-world problem. This project showcases my skills in Ruby on Rails, API development, and backend architecture focused on user-centric design. While no longer in active development, it served as a crucial foundation for understanding the complexities of food discovery applications and laid the groundwork for more advanced iterations.