The History and Rise of El Pollo Loco, the Fast Casual Chain Known for Its Fire-Grilled Chicken

The History and Rise of El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco, Spanish for "The Crazy Chicken," is an American fast food restaurant chain that specializes in fire-grilled chicken. Based in Costa Mesa, California, El Pollo Loco has over 480 locations across six states. The chain is known for its signature citrus-marinated chicken which is prepared on an open flame grill in full view of customers. El Pollo Loco offers an extensive menu of flavorful chicken items as well as other Mexican-inspired favorites like quesadillas, tacos, burritos and salads.

The Origins of El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco was founded by Juan Francisco Ochoa in Guasave, Mexico in 1975. Ochoa's small roadside restaurant was popular for its delicious chicken meals that were prepared in an authentic and unique manner. The chicken was marinated in a recipe with over 20 ingredients including citrus juices and spices. It was then grilled over an open flame, which resulted in the smoky, succulent flavor that El Pollo Loco would become famous for.

The first American location opened in Los Angeles in 1980 by Ochoa's brother. It quickly became popular with locals for its tasty chicken options that stood apart from typical fast food chains. The company expanded throughout the 1980s and 1990s, mostly across the American Southwest. International expansion soon followed to countries like Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala.

The El Pollo Loco Menu

The signature menu item at El Pollo Loco is the famous Pollo Asado - chicken marinated in a proprietary blend of citrus juices and spices then fire-grilled. The chain offers the grilled chicken in the form of tenders, salads, tacos, burritos, bowls and quesadillas. Fan favorite menu items include the Chicken Avocado Burrito, Pollo Bowl, and ultimate Pollo Trio with chicken tenders, a quesadilla and taco.

Beyond the grilled chicken items, El Pollo Loco serves up other Mexican-inspired offerings. These include tacos with shrimp or beef, burritos stuffed with grilled veggies or steak, and quesadillas in varieties like Shrimp Poblano Queso and Chicken & Guacamole. Family style meals are available too like the Chicken Fiesta Taco Party Pack. Don't forget dessert - try churros with dipping sauces or cinnamon sugared tortilla chips.

The Atmosphere at El Pollo Loco

The restaurants of El Pollo Loco are designed to feel welcoming, laidback and authentic. The kitchens are open so customers can view the grilling action. Dining rooms are brightly colored with Mexican-inspired decor. Many locations also have patios and drive-thrus for convenience.

El Pollo Loco aims to provide exceptional hospitality and service. Staff members are trained to be helpful and accommodating. The chain strives to make the dining experience feel personalized and warm for all guests. They also focus on active community involvement to give back.

Continued Growth and Expansion

Over the decades El Pollo Loco grew steadily and expanded across the American West Coast. In the early 2000s the company was acquired by new ownership that led revitalization and wider national expansion. The chain continues growing to this day as more locations open up across America.

El Pollo Loco prioritizes maintaining quality through this expansion process. Chicken is delivered fresh to restaurants instead of being frozen. Employees carefully prep ingredients and cook food in small batches throughout the day. The brand also innovates with new flavored marinades for seasonal offerings while staying true to its signature flavor profile that made it famous.

With its delicious fire-grilled chicken, broad family-friendly menu and warm service, El Pollo Loco looks to continue flourishing as an iconic and beloved fast casual dining destination.

FAQs

What is El Pollo Loco best known for?

El Pollo Loco is best known for its signature fire-grilled chicken. The chicken is marinated in a citrus and spice blend then grilled over an open flame, resulting in tender juicy meat with a smoky flavor.

Does El Pollo Loco offer any vegetarian options?

Yes, El Pollo Loco has a variety of tasty vegetarian options. These include avocado and vegetable tacos and burritos, salads topped with beans, rice bowls with guacamole, and quesadillas filled with grilled veggies.

What are some of the most popular menu items?

Some of the most popular menu items are the Pollo Asado (grilled chicken), Chicken Avocado Burrito, Chicken Taco Al Carbon, and Ultimate Pollo Trio which features chicken tenders, a quesadilla and taco.

Does El Pollo Loco offer online ordering?

Yes, El Pollo Loco offers convenient online ordering through its website and mobile app. Customers can order takeout or delivery and customize their meals.

What makes the dining experience special at El Pollo Loco?

The open kitchens allow customers to view the grilling action and the chicken being prepared fresh. The restaurants also aim to provide warm, hospitable service with a laidback, inviting atmosphere.