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.
Fast-food chain outpost known for Mexican classics made with fire-grilled chicken. Based on 389 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.2 stars. Price $
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Drive-through ✔️ No-contact delivery

Address:
12847 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130
Phone: (858) 847-0285
Website:
Hours
| Friday |
10 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday |
10 AM–11 PM |
| Sunday |
10 AM–11 PM |
| Monday
(Labor Day)
|
10 AM–11 PM
Hours might differ
|
| Tuesday |
10 AM–11 PM |
| Wednesday |
10 AM–11 PM |
| Thursday |
10 AM–11 PM |
Menu
… View more
Photo Gallery
Reviews
Ashleigh New
Not being from California I had never tried this restaurant. Man, now I wish we had this where I lived. The price was very reasonable, the food was well prepared – tasted fresh, and the options were varied. For fast food Mexican this place is amazing. If you have never visited – do so, if you live here this restaurant was clean, the staff was friendly, and the food was impeccably prepared.
… more
Josh Baltazar
After a nice beach day, we went to El Pollo Loco because we were craving a semi healthy meal! We shared a 4 piece chicken with sides of Mac and Cheese and Mashed Potatoes. I’ve never had Mashed Potatoes at El Pollo Loco and it was a good gamble, they tasted pretty good! The chicken is always seasoned and crispy. Overall the employees were super nice as well.
… more
Dawn
I love the DOUBLE CHICKEN TOSTADA SALAD. Yum! It has avocado and some rice, and a delicious dressing. A new favorite for me. The TORTILLA SOUP is absolutely delicious too!
… more
Controller 4U
Nice restaurant, looks like Javiers but affordable. Alex is great.
… more
Ben Steelhead
Unbelievable experience, the food was perfect great flavorful chicken, beans and coleslaw, so good all together ! Also exceptional friendly service.
… more
Fate Reid
Hi, I used to go to this location for many years twice a week. Meal was always great and service was poor for long time but now all employees are very nice but food have changed!. I’m sorry to say that their chicken taste different lately and taste like poor quality chicken, also spices don’t taste the same as before.
… more
Daniel Rodriguez
Chicken really dried out. Not into that had to use a lot of salsa to eat. But complained about the chicken salad. They did not hesitate to make me a fresh new one.
… more
Jay Jay Oktan
good price cheap food..they dont have hard taco shells. they have very soft ones which is hard to handle. if you have no any other choice yoy may step in
… more
James T. Patterson (Patt)
This chain has been a top favorite of mine since I first had it as a kid in Mexico. This location did not disappoint! Even though they are serving everything in to-go containers due to Covid precautions, they did not drop any service or food quality. Top notch all around!
… more
J S
I just wish they could get my order right. I always have to repeat my order in the drive through and still come away with the wrong order. I think there’s a lack of basic English skills here.
… more
… View more