El Pollo Loco

3.9
556 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 Riverside,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

  • Drive-throughAvailable
  • [Free/Paid] wi-fiNot available

Location

El Pollo Loco
18661 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA
92508, United States

Hours

Reviews

3.9
556 reviews
5 stars
285
4 stars
103
3 stars
59
2 stars
35
1 star
74

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Food Quality

Mixed reviews on food quality; some customers enjoyed the chicken while others reported dry or poorly prepared items.

Service Issues

Frequent complaints about slow service, understaffing, and incorrect orders, leading to customer frustration.

Cleanliness

Some customers praised the cleanliness of the location, while others noted dirty conditions and unsanitary practices.

Management Concerns

Repeated mentions of poor management, particularly regarding inventory issues and staff training.

Customer Experience

Varied experiences with staff friendliness; some customers reported excellent service while others encountered rude or inattentive employees.
  • MM
    Monica
    1 day ago
    1.0
    El Pollo loco is just not worth getting anymore. Got an 8 piece that was close to $20 just the chicken alone. All of them sooooo small not even worth the price at all. Not coming back unless they do better. So disappointed since this used to be a childhood favorite of mine
  • MB
    Michael Bell
    Oct 4, 2025
    4.0
    I’m a regular here. I always get the same exact meal every time I go. However often times during the evening they are out of chicken breasts so you either have to wait or get something else. The wait can be up to 30 minutes. It’s a chicken restaurant so like… why isn’t there enough chicken? Other than that, the food is great. Good portions from this location specifically compared to other ones I’ve been to. The manager Carmen is very nice and friendly so that’s always a plus.
  • SO
    Samuel Ortiz
    Oct 3, 2025
    5.0
    Food and place is the cleanest that I’ve been to. Carmen is amazing
  • WG
    Weldon Gerstung
    Sep 18, 2025
    3.0
    Tasty fast food.
  • MM
    Mark Miranda
    Sep 2, 2025
    4.0
    This location feels pretty new so everything still looks nice. The only problem is that it always seems like they’re so understaffed so the service feels slow, but otherwise the food is good.

Frequently Asked Questions About El Pollo Loco

What are the opening hours of El Pollo Loco in Riverside, CA?

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

Where is El Pollo Loco located in Riverside?

El Pollo Loco is located at 18661 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92508, USA.