SoftInstigate/restheart

The Open Source Backend for MongoDB

What it solves

RESTHeart is an open-source backend framework that allows developers to instantly create REST, GraphQL, and WebSocket APIs directly from a MongoDB database without writing backend code. It removes the need for boilerplate code for common database operations and security implementation.

How it works

It acts as a declarative layer over MongoDB, providing built-in support for CRUD operations, aggregations, filtering, and pagination. It includes a native plugin framework that allows developers to extend the system with custom business logic using Java, Kotlin, JavaScript, or TypeScript. For AI-assisted configuration, it provides an MCP server for integration with AI assistants like Claude or Cursor.

Who it’s for

Developers who want to rapidly prototype or deploy backends for MongoDB applications, as well as those who need a highly extensible API layer with built-in authentication and authorization.

Highlights

  • Multi-protocol support: Provides REST, GraphQL, WebSocket, and Server-Sent Events (SSE).
  • Integrated Security: Built-in JWT, OAuth2, LDAP, and ACL rules for authentication and authorization.
  • AI-assisted development: Includes Sophia, an AI assistant that supports MCP for "vibe coding" and backend configuration.
  • Extensibility: Plugin framework supporting multiple languages (Java, Kotlin, JS, TS).
  • Performance: Built on Java 25 and virtual threads, available as a Docker image or GraalVM native binary.