Business Details
About
Mexican RestaurantCatererChicken RestaurantFast Food Restaurant
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 Lake Forest, CA, we believe that when real food meets real fire the result is great taste that will keep you coming back again and again.
Details
- DeliveryAvailable
- Accepts checksAvailable
- Drive-throughAvailable
- [Free/Paid] wi-fiNot available
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.1
760 reviews
5 stars
385
4 stars
199
3 stars
97
2 stars
30
1 star
49
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Customer Service
Many customers praised the friendly and attentive service from staff members like Emma and Gilbert, highlighting their positive interactions.
Food Quality
While some customers enjoyed the food, there were multiple complaints about inconsistent quality, including dry chicken and incorrect orders.
Cleanliness
Several reviews noted the cleanliness of the restaurant and restrooms, although there were also reports of poor conditions at times.
Order Accuracy
Numerous customers experienced issues with incorrect orders, particularly regarding special requests and missing items.
Value for Money
Some customers felt that the prices were high for the portion sizes and quality of food received.
- FCFred Currie2 days ago5.0Good marinated BBQ chicken. I like the new touch screen order kiosks. I find it quicker and easier to go inside instead of the drive through.
- SMSaoud MoonSep 25, 20251.0please don’t leave your advertisement paper on cars outside in the parking lot. it’s annoying and also a waste of paper.
- FWFrankie WritezAug 15, 20255.0SEPTEMBER 25th, 2025: When I first arrived, a kind gentleman held the door for me to let me in and he allowed me to place my order before his. THEN, gracefully I was greeted by Emma (I’m not sure if she’s the manager or front-line employee but either way I know that she is such a light, a kind soul, a wonderful spirit and a fantastic person!! Much more than an El Pollo Loco employee, she’s an Angel in my humble opinion. She not only helped me to place my order for the NEW Queso Crunch Burrito Bowl, she gave me a discount coupon which granted me $3.49 off of my order! She said that’s “her favorite magic trick”: Being kind and offering her kindness to those who she serves and in her life. The warmth in her conversation and spark in her spirit truly brightened up my day and lifted my heart!! I’ll spare her personal business, but I’m thankful that Jesus brought us together this day! She even blessed me with more coupons to take with me and to use in the future. I hope nothing but kind and wonderful blessings for you, too, Emma! What a great gift! Now as far as the bowl goes, I’d give it a 3.5 out of 5. It’s a nice chicken bowl with an added crunch from the tortilla strips and the seasoned rice adds a great flavor to it as well! I do know that it’s a limited time item but I would order it again. The bowl may have earned 3.5 stars, but partnered with the Exceptional Customer Service I received from Emma on this day, it bumps my overall rating to a 6/5 stars!! Thank you El Pollo Loco and Emma for this wonderful and blessed experience. I’m looking forward to stopping by again soon!! AUGUST 15th, 2025: I wish I took some photos of my food, but I ate it so fast because it was so good, I forgot! Haha I drove up to this location at a little after 1pm and there was no one in line. I wish I would’ve gotten his name, but the guy who took my order and my payment was very sweet and kind. I ended up trying their Shredded Chicken Nacho combo with Salsa Fresca minus the Guac and a Hawaiian Punch. I drove around to the window and as I waited for my food, the guy who took my order was busy taking another order, and (i believe) the manager came and asked “Is this her food?” to him to make sure I wasn’t waiting much longer. Thank you! (I should’ve gotten your name too haha) He handed me my food with a smile. He thanked me and I thanked him and the other guy for their help! My gosh, I can only speak for myself when I say, those nachos were good!!!! The queso topped with the seasoned chicken, tortilla chips, salsa Fresca, pinto beans was just the quick stop meal I needed on this busy day. Not only was it good but it was filling too! I’ll definitely order that one again. This is my second time at this location.
- JBJoel BarrettAug 1, 20254.0Order the wing lovers meal you get 4 wings and 2 sides with my senior discount $6.71 Great deal for this restaurant
- KCKaylie CAug 1, 20251.0Repeatedly asked for no avocado in our meal, because my friend is allergic. I confirmed with them that they understood that we did not want avocado. They put avocado in our food, they refused to give us a refund.
Frequently Asked Questions About El Pollo Loco
Where is El Pollo Loco located?
El Pollo Loco is located at 20163 Lake Forest Dr, Lake Forest, CA 92630, USA.
What are the operating hours for El Pollo Loco in Lake Forest?
El Pollo Loco is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Does El Pollo Loco offer delivery and catering services?
Yes, El Pollo Loco offers both delivery and catering services.
What types of payment does El Pollo Loco accept?
El Pollo Loco accepts American Express, Check, Discover, and Visa.
How can I place an order for pickup or delivery from El Pollo Loco?
You can order through the El Pollo Loco app or online at https://order.elpolloloco.com/menu/lake-forest-dr-hwy-241.
Does El Pollo Loco have a drive-through service?
Yes, this El Pollo Loco location features a drive-through service for your convenience.
What is the contact email and phone number for El Pollo Loco Lake Forest?
You can contact El Pollo Loco by email at epl3970@wksusa.com or by phone at +1 949-581-5499.
What nearby fast food options are close to El Pollo Loco?
Nearby fast food options include two Jack in the Box locations and Jimmy John's, providing variety if you're exploring the area.
Are there nearby leisure or fitness facilities near El Pollo Loco?
Yes, nearby facilities include the Etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest, Saddleback Valley Volleyball, and several gyms like Clava Fitness and Open Mat Jiu Jitsu, perfect for combining a workout or recreation with your visit.
What are some nearby services and shops customers can visit when at El Pollo Loco?
Nearby you can find The Home Depot for home improvement, Polish Nail Spa for beauty treatments, and Bodhi Leaf Coffee Bar for coffee and smoothies, making it convenient to combine errands or relaxation with your meal.