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By Steve Benoff In keeping with August's approach, I'm going to discuss two apps I use (somewhat) regularly – Chipotle and Chili's. Since my goal is to use every app applicable to local businesses, I'll soon be trying apps I've never used before. Chipotle is a relatively new addition to Banning's Albertson's shopping center. It's across the parking lot from Carl's Jr. which, alas, doesn't have an app in English although it seems to have apps in Chinese and Russian (although they may, in fact, be in languages similar to those two). Chipotle is known for its burritos, but in fact it has variations branching out from burritos. But in the end, the menu is quite simple, and that lends itself to easy ordering on the Chipotle app. The app is an ordering device. Of course, once you've downloaded the app you have to set it up by selecting your preferred location and payment method. Since your phone knows your location, you can set your location preference to "closest" in the app's Preferences section. When you choose your preferences, don't forget to turn on Touch ID. Just like in the restaurant, your first choice is to select among burrito, burrito bowl, salad, tacos, as well as kid's and sides. If you're ordering among the first four choices, your next choice is to add a filling – chicken, steak, carnitas, barbacoa, sofritas (plant-based protein), or veggie. Next, you choose among white, brown or no rice; black, pinto, or no beans; and, finally, you can add toppings from a list of ten. You can also add a drink. (If you ordered a fountain drink, you get an empty cup and lid and then go to the drink machine and make your selection.) Once you've finalized your order, you select when you want to pick it up. I'm impressed by how quickly they can have it ready. But you can choose a later pickup time if that's more convenient. When you arrive to pick it up, it's all ready to go. Just grab the bag with your name on it and leave. You can also arrange to have it delivered by DoorDash. I give Chipotle an "A" for a well-designed, easy-to-use app. Chili's has been in Beaumont for years. Unlike Chipotle, Chili's has a big menu, but the app makes it easy to make your selections. Of course, you first need to set up your location and payment info by choosing "more" at the bottom of the screen and pressing My Account. As with all apps through which you make payments, you'll need to set up a password for the app. When you're ready to order, the initial menu gives you 20 categories from which to choose. These include appetizers, burgers, ribs & steaks, and many other options. It's from these sub-menus that you make you choices. I like the fact that in addition to the prices for each selection the calorie count is also listed. When you choose an item, you are often given a choice to customize the selection – such as the type of tortilla you want with your meal. When you've finalized your order, the app presents a Checkout screen showing pickup location, contact info, pickup time in 15-minute increments, payment options, and pickup type. When you place your order, the Chili's app responds with a text. You can choose to go inside the restaurant to pick up your order or you can choose Curbside. In the latter case, you text them that you are at the pickup location outside the restaurant. Since the app gives you the option to identify your vehicle (e.g., Hyundai-Santa Fe - White), your order is brought directly to you. Since you've already paid for the order, you can simply take the bag and go. I also give the Chipotle app an "A" for design and ease of use. In August, you may remember, I gave an "A-" to both Walmart and Home Depot, two very complex and comprehensive apps. Yet I gave an "A" to two much simpler apps. The grade is for success in accomplishing the app's intended purpose. Chipotle and Chili's have designed apps that do excellent jobs of ordering food. If you use an app you'd like to share with others, let me know at steve.benoff@verizon.net. 12 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | OCTOBER 2019 THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT! Apps For Around Town - Part Two

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