El Pollo Loco

4.2
460 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 San Diego,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
12847 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA
92130, United States

Hours

Reviews

4.2
460 reviews
5 stars
272
4 stars
100
3 stars
41
2 stars
11
1 star
36

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Service Issues

Customers frequently reported poor service, including long wait times, incorrect orders, and unhelpful staff.

Food Quality

Mixed reviews on food quality; while some enjoyed the taste and freshness, others experienced dry or poorly cooked chicken.

Pricing Concerns

Several customers noted rising prices and small portion sizes, leading to dissatisfaction with value for money.

Positive Experiences

Despite issues, many customers praised the friendly staff and some had enjoyable meals, recommending specific items.

Cleanliness

The restaurant was generally noted for being clean, although some customers reported issues with food safety.
  • SM
    Shane M
    Sep 27, 2025
    3.0
    Nice place but prices are getting higher and portions are getting smaller.
  • DH
    David Haller
    Aug 30, 2025
    1.0
    No cilantro dressing for the salad which is what my gf likes on her salad and that was ordered and not in the bag nor was there any queso that Juan promised to dip my quesadillas in. Disappointed because my injured gf couldn't get what she wanted nor could she eat a salad with no dressing.
  • YA
    Yendry Arreaga
    Aug 5, 2025
    5.0
    Went to the drive through on a busy Saturday night. The service was very quick and direct. The lady was not messing around and you know what? It's perfectly fine. At the drive through window, one could hear fast chopping happening and it was a good sign. Took the food back home and enjoyed it thoroughly! I recommend the chicken quesadilla and the spicy chicken bowl, which took me 2.5 days to finish and tasted just fine after all that time. Avocado was fresh, which was a very nice touch. The crunchy chicken tacos were just okay but maybe because they were not eaten fresh. Highly recommend this place during the PM hours! Walked into CAVA (across the street) before and the rice looked so pathetic and dry so we left, thank god because it would have been twice the price and half the quality of Pollo Loco! 🐔 🤪
  • SD
    Steven Davis
    Aug 3, 2025
    5.0
    It's just good 👍🏼
  • MS
    María C. Salinas Sosa
    Jul 27, 2025
    1.0
    Pésimo servicio, al llegar éramos los únicos en el local hasta que se les ocurrió atendernos, al momento de tomar queríamos información sobre las bebidas y hasta que pregunté un poco molesta me contestó. Pedí una ensalada en combo nunca me entregaron las papas ni porque nos paramos a pedirlas (ignorados por completo) no regresaremos a este lugar!! Mientras estábamos hay se les hizo fila porque simplemente no atendían! (Tal vez estaban atendiendo otros pedidos en línea y/o carro) pero y el servicio a los que estamos ahí!???

Frequently Asked Questions About El Pollo Loco

What are the opening hours of El Pollo Loco in San Diego?

El Pollo Loco is open every day from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Where is El Pollo Loco located in San Diego?

It is located at 12847 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130, USA.