It’s rare that I use the words “genius” and “online dating” in the same sentence, let alone blog headline. But in the case of these two game-changers, the hyperbole applies.

Meet EATER DATING and HITCH.ME (aka LINKED IN DATING). Here are their stats:

EATER DATING

Origin: The popular food blog Eater.com

Mission Statement: connect like food-minded people through like food-centric dates

How It Works: (their words) “Each day we’ll send you new dates that match your interests. And, of course, we’ll send the dates you post to people who might like them. Then you can check out people’s profiles, message, and go out. It’s fun, easy and natural. People are at their best when they’re doing what they really like to do. And that’s what HowAboutWe is all about: helping you to find people who like the same places and want to do the same things as you.”

Why It Works: (my opinion) You finally have something very specific to organize a date around, an “excuse” if you will. I’ve been dying to try these sandwiches at a specific shop in Los Feliz. If I were on Eater Dating I’d find someone interesting and propose that very idea. Now it’s not just, “you seem cute” or “I like you profile” but “I notice you live in Loz Feliz, and I’ve been dying to try this specific sandwich at this specific restaurant. Want to join me?”

Who It Works For: Technically everyone, but it will probably work best for people who enjoy trying new restaurants and are interested in interesting foods.

Really?? Compatibility Based on Food Choice?: What? You’ve got a better idea? Dating is a numbers game, so the more chances you give yourself to meet someone based on like interested, the better.

HITCH.ME (aka Linked In Dating)

Origin: That online networking tool that everyone seems to join, but no one I know actually uses, LinkedIn.

Mission Statement: Official: connects the professional world and the dating world through a secure online portal. Obvious: you can always get away with pretending it’s for networking purposes. That’s how I spent most of my 20s…

How It Works: (their words) “Joining Hitch.me is free. After you sign up you get access to members LinkedIn profiles and you can filter members based on our extensive advanced search. For viewing members personal profile and communicating with them you will have spend Hitch.me credits. Credits can be earned on the site by making a secure payment through any credit card. “

Why It Works: (my opinion) Call me narrow-minded and career-obsessed, but I do think job-related compatibility is a good and helpful thing. Even if you – a PR maven – have always been attracted to techy types. At least you get a strong sense of who the person is from their employment history.

Who It Works For: Probably best for people who really use LinkedIn. If you’re a musician, writer, or freelance reporter I’m not sure it will apply well.

How is this not the least sexy dating platform ever?: It is. So what? You want the sexy to come after you get past the person not being a psycho.

Good luck out there, and please report back on your findings!