El Pollo Loco

4.3
604 reviews

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 Rancho Santa Margarita,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
  • DebitAvailable
  • Accepts checksAvailable
  • Drive-throughAvailable

Location

El Pollo Loco
22381 Antonio Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
92688, United States

Hours

Reviews

4.3
604 reviews
5 stars
392
4 stars
118
3 stars
33
2 stars
19
1 star
42

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Service Quality

Customers frequently praised the excellent and friendly service, highlighting specific staff members like Daniel and Marissa for their attentiveness.

Food Quality

Many reviews noted the delicious and fresh food, although there were some complaints about inconsistencies in food preparation, particularly with chicken.

Cleanliness

The restaurant was often described as clean and well-maintained, contributing positively to the overall dining experience.

Order Accuracy

Several customers expressed frustration with order inaccuracies, mentioning missing items or incorrect orders as a recurring issue.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere was generally appreciated, with comments on the decor and welcoming environment enhancing the dining experience.
  • EG
    Estela Garcia
    Oct 4, 2025
    5.0
    excellent service.
  • DD
    Dee Dee
    Sep 25, 2025
    4.0
    Great service!
  • GS
    Gladiz Soliz
    Jul 3, 2025
    5.0
    I thought pollo loco was losing their touch but this location impressed me. The Flavor was great.
  • AA
    Alec
    Jun 19, 2025
    1.0
    This location habitually "forgets" to give you the salsa you order. They ask you when ordering which kind you want, and then rush your order out the window and when you ask again they will tell you its in the bag, which it isn't.
  • TG
    Tom G
    Jun 5, 2025
    1.0
    I've been going to this location for 20 years, and it has gone downhill, nobody cares about the quality of the chicken. I always ask for moist, not overcooked and dried out, and it is always overdone. I've talked to managers, the corporate office, emphasized when ordering, nothing changes from the same overcooked, dried out chicken. Today was my last visit, this won't change, and I will go elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions About El Pollo Loco

What are the operating hours of El Pollo Loco in Rancho Santa Margarita?

El Pollo Loco is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Does El Pollo Loco offer delivery services?

Yes, El Pollo Loco offers delivery services for customer convenience.