Chili’s Grill & Bar is making it easier for customers to enjoy its menu offerings with a new mobile application.

Users of the new app for iPhone and Android can find nearby locations, get driving directions, view an updated menu and place orders with just the push of a few buttons. The apps complement the restaurant chain’s mobile site, which launched in the fall.

The most exciting feature of the application is the ease and simplicity of the online ordering system,” said Edithann Ramey, senior director of marketing for Chili’s Grill & Bar, Dallas. “The organization and interface guide the guests through the online ordering process, and allow them to place their order with just a few buttons.

“Additionally, the system guides guests to driving directions using geo-mapping services,” she said. “From there, guests can simply pull into the To Go parking lot, and a Chili’s Team Member will deliver curb-side service to their car.

“The overall goal and functionality of the app gives Chili’s guests the flexibility to order what they want without even getting out of their car.”

Easy access
The new apps feature a clean interface and geo-mapping functionality.

Guests can click on the menu browser option to choose the items they are interested in. Featured items for dine-in and to go are available.

“The goals of both applications and the mobile site are the same, to make it easier for guests to access and order their Chili’s favorites and receive up-to-date information about new menu items and specials,” Ms. Ramey said.

The free app can be downloaded from the iTunes App Store and Android Market.

Chili’s Grill & Bar restaurants offer a mix of grilled American dishes at more than 1,500 locations in 32 countries.

“With the constant evolution of technology, the world continues to receive information at the touch of its fingertips,” Ms. Ramey said.

“Chili’s guests lead busy lives and the iPhone and Android applications allow us to extend the guest experience beyond the four walls of the restaurant and right into the palm of their hands,” she said.

“The enhanced capability of the application makes it convenient for them to access their local Chili’s menu, locate a restaurant with driving directions and order online with the touch of just a few buttons.”

Final Take
Chantal Tode is associate editor on Mobile Commerce Daily, New York