El Pollo Loco

4.3
528 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
11895 Carmel Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA
92128, United States

Hours

Reviews

4.3
528 reviews
5 stars
331
4 stars
108
3 stars
48
2 stars
14
1 star
27

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Food Quality

Inconsistent food quality reported, with some customers experiencing dry chicken and undercooked shrimp, while others praised the delicious and fresh offerings.

Customer Service

Mixed reviews on customer service; some staff received high praise for friendliness and efficiency, while others were criticized for rudeness and poor communication.

Cleanliness

Many customers noted that the locations are generally clean and well-maintained.

Value for Money

Concerns about portion sizes and pricing were mentioned, with some customers feeling that the value does not match the cost.
  • SR
    Steve Ruth
    Dec 24, 2025
    2.0
    Chicken was very dry..
  • ML
    Michael Lodman
    Dec 15, 2025
    1.0
    When El Pollo Loco is good, it's phenomenal. Unfortunately some of these restaurants have a habit of selling chickens that have been overcooked to the point of being near jerky, and since it's to drive-thru customers, they usually get away with it. As a result I don't eat at El Pollo Loco restaurants near as often as I might - it's a 50/50 proposition what I'll get. This was last night's 12 piece family dinner from this restaurant, and it was near inedible, so dried-out it was like it would have kept for the winter unrefrigerated.
  • AW
    Aaron Wyant
    Nov 19, 2025
    5.0
    Had a great experience today!! Great location.
  • DL
    Dan Loyola
    Nov 10, 2025
    5.0
    Delicious grilled chicken as always!
  • YO
    Yunueth OC
    Sep 11, 2025
    5.0
    This place is amazing staff super friendly and food tasty like always! For sure coming back! 👏🏻

Frequently Asked Questions About El Pollo Loco

What are the operating hours of El Pollo Loco at 11895 Carmel Mountain Rd?

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

Where is El Pollo Loco located?

El Pollo Loco is located at 11895 Carmel Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA 92128, USA.