While some things have changed over the last few decades, El Pollo Loco's delivery of fresh, authentic food has not. Everything starts with whole chickens that are slowly marinated in a special recipe of herbs, spices, fruit juices and garlic. The chicken is then expertly fire-grilled to perfection the authentic way - on our signature open-flame grills - then hand cut into your favorite Mexican entrees. We put that same dedication and care into our handmade guacamole, salsas and dressings every day. At El Pollo Loco in Big Bear Lake,CA, we believe that when real food meets real fire the result is great taste that will keep you coming back again and again.
Frequent complaints about incorrect orders and missing items, leading to customer frustration.
Food Quality
Mixed reviews on food quality; many customers reported dry, overcooked chicken and unsatisfactory sides.
Cleanliness
Consistent reports of dirty dining areas and restrooms, impacting overall customer experience.
Service Issues
Staff behavior and service speed received criticism, with reports of rudeness and slow service.
Positive Experiences
Some customers enjoyed the food and praised specific items, indicating potential for improvement.
CA
Chelo Arechiga
Jan 5, 2026
1.0
$30 for 2 burritos BURNED
2 small salsas "gross"
when you ask for 2 more salsas
1 dollar each
TB
Trevor B
Dec 13, 2025
2.0
This Pollo Loco repeatedly gets orders wrong. I didn't want to leave a review here, but this happened often enough (50% of the time or more, after a dozen or more orders), and there is no other place I can leave feedback. The official Pollo Loco website has a *blank page* for feedback, and the Pollo Loco app is *completely broken*, and rejects all attempts to make a new account. I'm just so frustrated - no matter how much I try to clarify things, the order comes out wrong. So, I'm giving up... going to go elsewhere from now on.
YB
Yvette b
Dec 5, 2025
5.0
The churro are different now I didn't like them
BG
Brian Gehrke
Nov 22, 2025
1.0
Pollo Loco Review
First Impressions:
This was my first visit to Pollo Loco, and unfortunately, it will likely be my last.
Food Quality
Disappointing Experience:
- The food was cold and tough, far from the fresh, flavorful meal I was hoping for.
- It seemed like the staff may have just chopped up leftovers to fulfill my order, rather than preparing something fresh.
Service & Atmosphere
Unwelcoming Environment:
- I arrived around 6:30 PM (they close at 8:30 PM), but it felt like the staff was already in the process of shutting down early.
- There were some smirks and inside jokes among the staff, which made me feel like an outsider rather than a valued customer.
Online Ordering Issues
Frustrating Process:
- I attempted to order online, but the system failed to process my order.
- Despite the failed order, I was charged anyway—though I was later refunded, I still had to go in and order in person, adding to the frustration.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience at Pollo Loco was disappointing—from the poor food quality to the unwelcoming atmosphere and ordering issues. I had hoped for a better first impression, but sadly, I don’t plan on returning.