El Pollo Loco

4.0
1588 reviews
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Business Details

5321 S Rice Ave, Houston, TX
77081, United States
(713) 668-6428
https://restaurants.elpolloloco.com/tx/houston/5321-s-rice-ave
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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 Houston,TX, 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
5321 S Rice Ave, Houston, TX
77081, United States

Hours

Reviews

4.0
1,588 reviews
5 stars
842
4 stars
352
3 stars
145
2 stars
86
1 star
163

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Service Quality

Customers praised the friendly and attentive staff, particularly highlighting employees like Danielle and Mimi for their exceptional service.

Food Quality

While many enjoyed the flavors and freshness of the chicken, several reviews noted issues with dry or overcooked chicken, leading to mixed experiences.

Cleanliness

The restaurant was generally reported as clean, but some customers mentioned dirty tables and unsanitary conditions in certain areas.

Order Accuracy

There were multiple complaints about missing items in orders, particularly in drive-thru and delivery services.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere was described as pleasant and suitable for family dining, although some customers experienced long wait times.
  • JF
    jocelyn fernandez
    5 days ago
    5.0
    I went through the drive through and Mimi was very lovely, food was excellent and reasonably priced. 10/10
  • BB
    Brandon
    Dec 18, 2025
    1.0
    I don’t know what’s going on here, but this is only my second time inside the restaurant and it was blistering hot again. I thought the first time might have just been poor climate control management, but it’s clear this restaurant is run down and not properly maintained. They clearly have a broken AC system, along with a broken soda machine and other issues worth mentioning. I tried filing a complaint with the manager, but no manager was to be found, so I called the corporate office—and of course, they didn’t answer either. Worst fast-food restaurant experience.
  • FL
    Francis Leal
    Dec 3, 2025
    5.0
    Great service and atmosphere! I visit at least once a week and staff and managers are always attentive, friendly, and professional. It's also impressive that I always see them cleaning inside and outside of their location. Took off 1 star because -sometimes- the chicken seems a tad dry and the tomatoes in the salsa seem a little old. Otherwise I love eating here! UPDATE: Chicken was juicy and tomatoes in the picó de gallo were fresh! I'm so happy and bumping my review to a well deserved 5 stars! Thank ya'll for listening!
  • AA
    Alex
    Dec 1, 2025
    1.0
    This is what you get for over $12
  • AR
    Arturo Reyes
    Nov 21, 2025
    5.0
    It's one of the best places to eat really good roast chicken
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Frequently Asked Questions About El Pollo Loco

What are the opening hours of El Pollo Loco in Houston, TX?

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

Where is El Pollo Loco located in Houston?

El Pollo Loco is located at 5321 S Rice Ave, Houston, TX 77081, USA.