Dollar Pizza Finder
An iOS map for finding dollar pizza in NYC
The Challenge
A map of pizza restaurants does not tell you which ones sell a dollar slice. Dollar Pizza Finder narrows the search to those spots and shows how long it takes to walk there. Keeping the locations current matters as much as putting them on a map: a shop can close or change its prices.
Key Challenges
- 1Collecting dollar pizza locations in one place
- 2Distinguishing a dollar slice from a general pizza listing
- 3Keeping location information up to date
- 4Showing walking distance and directions
The Solution
The app combines crowd-sourced locations with the Google Places API. Users can compare nearby spots on the map, save favorites, and open Apple Maps for walking directions.
Key Features
- Interactive map with custom markers for each pizza spot
- Real-time distance and walking time calculations
- User reviews and ratings system
- Saved favorites for return visits
- Integration with Apple Maps for turn-by-turn navigation
Development Process
Research
Walked around Manhattan documenting dollar pizza locations and interviewing locals about their favorites
Design
Created wireframes focused on one-handed mobile use and quick access to directions
Development
Built with Swift using MVC architecture, integrated Firebase for the backend
Testing
Beta tested with friends and Penn State NYC alumni, iterated based on feedback
Technical Highlights
Custom Map Annotations
A custom MKAnnotationView uses a pizza image and adds a label for a distance badge
class PizzaAnnotationView: MKAnnotationView {
override init(annotation: MKAnnotation?, reuseIdentifier: String?) {
super.init(annotation: annotation, reuseIdentifier: reuseIdentifier)
// Custom pizza slice marker
let pizzaImage = UIImage(named: "pizza-marker")
image = pizzaImage?.withRenderingMode(.alwaysOriginal)
// Distance badge
let distanceLabel = UILabel()
distanceLabel.font = .systemFont(ofSize: 10, weight: .bold)
distanceLabel.textColor = .white
distanceLabel.backgroundColor = UIColor.systemOrange
addSubview(distanceLabel)
}
}The Results
Key Outcomes
- Mapped dollar pizza spots so users could find them by location
- Practiced iOS development with maps, location services, and a Firebase backend
- Used beta feedback to revise the app
Lessons Learned
Location updates have a battery cost, even in a small app
Crowd-sourced listings need moderation as well as a way to submit them
Finding a spot and getting directions should stay easy as features are added