Quick Answer: Yes, Panda Express accepts Apple Pay at many stores, but not all of them. This depends on the payment terminal. Tap-to-pay will be available in the restaurant and sometimes at the drive-thru, as well.
Does Panda Express take Apple Pay? This is an easy question, but you typically ask it when you’re hungry. When you’ve reached the counter or the drive-thru, you start wondering whether your phone can pay. It is not a good time for speculating.
Yes, many Panda Express locations do accept Apple Pay. However, it may be affected by the retail location, the card reader and if the terminal is contactless compatible. Some places might be OK, others not. This is the naggy thing.
Panda Express also has a standalone app for ordering for dine-in, take-out or delivery, as well as using the app to collect Panda Rewards points, which are redeemed for items based on qualifying purchases.
Can You Use Apple Pay at Panda Express?
Yes, Panda Express does accept Apple Pay at many stores, particularly ones that have tap-to-pay available on the payment machine. Contactless symbol on the card reader suggests that Apple Pay will typically function as a standard tap card. Panda Express is also said to offer Apple Pay at some stores, but not all.
However, if you don’t know this location, I wouldn’t just go there with Apple Pay. Have a debit card, credit card or some cash available. But, not because Apple Pay is bad. Because sometimes payment machines at restaurants behave strangely.
Does Apple Pay Work at Panda Express?
Yes, Apple Pay is supported inside Panda Express, as long as the counter terminal is capable of contactless payments. At cashier, check the card reader. If you notice the tap symbol, you’ll use your iPhone or Apple Watch.
To use iPhone Pay, double-press the side button, unlock face or passcode and bring it near the reader. With Apple Watch, double-press the side button and make sure that the watch is close to the machine.
Wait until the DONE message appears. Do not move your mobile phone around too fast. There are times when the reader needs one more second, and then we all lose patience.
Does Panda Express Accept Apple Pay for Drive-Thru?
This will be a location-specific decision, though Panda Express may be able to accept Apple Pay at the drive-thru. Some have a reader at the drive-thru which can access your cellphone. Some do not. At times, the reader enables tap-to-pay within but not readily at the drive-thru window.
The obvious answer is to ask first. Simply ask, “Do you accept Apple Pay at the drive-thru?” It only takes 2 seconds and prevents that awkward moment with payment.
Also, if a driver, beware of local phone rules. Using a mobile phone when driving or with the engine running may not work in some areas. Better to be safe.
So, Does Panda Express App Accept Apple Pay?
Panda Express will allow you to order food for dine-in, takeout or delivery through its app. It also integrates with Panda Rewards, which means you’ll accrue Panda Points when ordering in the app or scanning QR code in-store or at the drive-thru.
If you are using an iPhone and your Apple Pay setup is complete, Apple Pay might appear as a payment option in the app. However, checkout options may vary depending on app version, device and/or location. So look at the payment screen first before ordering!
The app may still be worth a look if you don’t have Apple Pay at your local Panda Express counter. App checkout can be more seamless than a card reader, having a bad day.
How to Use Apple Pay at Panda Express
If Apple Pay is supported at Panda Express, using it is easy. Unlock your Apple Wallet or double click side button, select your card, and then place your iPhone close to the reader.
For Apple Watch: Double-press the side button and tap the watch close to the reader.
Quick steps:
- On your iPhone, double-tap the side button.
- Select the desired card.
- Keep the phone close to the paying reader.
- Wait for the check mark or done message.
- If you need a receipt, take it with you.
If Apple Pay has not worked, then go ahead and try once more. Move the phone nearer and wait a second. Use the physical card that’s connected to your Wallet if this still doesn’t work.
Which payment methods does Panda Express accept?
Common payment methods are generally accepted at Panda Express. Debit cards, credit cards, cash and Panda Express gift cards are accepted by most. Apple Pay is available at many of the places that accept contactless payments.
It can offer the following as options:
- Cash
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Panda Express gift cards
- Pay with Apple Pay at participating merchants.
- Other contactless payments, if available.
- Payment via app/online orders.
The availability of payment methods may differ in different stores. If it is the only way you can pay for your purchase, inquire if they accept Apple Pay. It’s better than just standing there waiting with orange chicken and no options to pay.
Why Apple Pay Might Not Work at Panda Express
Even though your phone is working perfectly, Apple Pay might have a problem at Panda Express. The store might have an outdated payment terminal, the tap reader may be inactive, or the machine may not be connected online. It can also occur when your bank doesn’t accept the card, or when Apple Wallet requires verification.
In some cases, the cashier may not be aware of whether Apple Pay will work or not until you attempt to use it. This is very strange, but it actually occurs at fast food terminals.
Repeat the procedure with another card in Apple Wallet if it doesn’t work. If all else fails, go old-school and use a card or cash. Not optimal, but food orders are forwarded.
Is It Possible To Collect Panda Rewards Using Apple Pay?
Panda Rewards can still be earned, but remember to connect the rewards account first. Payment does not equal rewards. Please note that if you are using Apple Pay and you don’t scan your rewards code, then points may not get added.
Rewards will be easier when ordering from the Panda Express app since your rewards account will already be linked. Panda Express states that its customers can check in or scan the app at checkout to earn Panda Points in-store, via the app, at the drive-thru and website.
Therefore, scan and pay later. That’s the more conservative option.
Is Apple Pay Safe to Use at Panda Express?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay at Panda Express. Unlike a regular card, it won’t allow the restaurant to have your actual card number. The secure payment information on your iPhone or Apple Watch is used for Apple Pay.
It is also faster. Tap and done. No need to pass your card, or enter your card details into anything.
Always ask to see your receipt in case it doesn’t seem right. It’s just a good thing to have with any payment.
Commonly Asked FAQs
Can You Pay With Apple Pay at Panda Express?
Yep, many Panda Express stores accept Apple Pay, as long as your device is compatible with contactless payments.
Will Panda Express Accept Apple Pay at the Drive-Thru?
Apple Pay may be accepted at some Panda Express drive-thrus. This depends on the type of payment reader and configuration of the store.
Is Apple Pay available in the Panda Express App?
If your device and payment configuration support Apple Pay, you can view it in the Panda Express app checkout. The app does provide mobile ordering for dine-in, takeout and delivery.
Does Panda Express Take Google Pay?
Some places that have contactless terminals might also accept Google Pay, depending on the store.
If Apple Pay Isn’t Working, What Should I Do?
Attempt one more time, review your Apple Wallet card, inquire at the cashier or pay with different card or cash.
Final Thoughts
At many, certainly, I would say that Panda Express accepts Apple Pay, but not at every single one. Apple Pay will generally work if the restaurant has a contact-less card reader. If the terminal is not working or is an older model, you need another payment method.
Simple is the best. Before ordering, check with the cashier for the tap-to-pay symbol or check the Panda Express app. If possible, retain one backup card.
Did Apple Pay work at your nearby Panda Express counter or drive-thru? Make a comment of your store type, this can differ from place to place.
