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 Rancho Santa Margarita,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 494 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.3 stars. Price $
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Drive-through ✔️ No-contact delivery

Address:
22381 Antonio Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Phone: (949) 858-4446
Website:
Hours
| Friday |
9:30 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday |
10 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday |
10 AM–10 PM |
| Monday
(Labor Day)
|
9:30 AM–11 PM
Hours might differ
|
| Tuesday |
9:30 AM–11 PM |
| Wednesday |
9:30 AM–11 PM |
| Thursday |
9:30 AM–11 PM |
Menu
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Photo Gallery
Reviews
Christina Rex
The lady at the drive-thru was very upbeat, prompt and very kind through our transaction. My food and condiments were exactly how I ordered & it was delicious. Best experience at any drive-thru in I don’t know how long!! Looking forward to my next visit!
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Matt S
Rosalina is awesome, she runs this place like a machine. The food is always great and the wait time is reasonable. This is one of our favorite lunch places. We will be back for sure.
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Isabel Cobos
Great service! And great food. Love everyone there!
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Flor Perez mejia
Great service! Love to come Here all the time.
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Danny Busuego
Rosa and the entire crew are always so pleasant and are always taking care of my lunch needs! I go here 3-4 times a week because their service and food is outstanding!!
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Matt Sugerman
Best service for any quick restaurant period. Food is consistently great, on time and the order is always correct. I eat here 5 days per week. The staff knows me as well as my family. Great management team. Very well-run restaurant.
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George Rogers
We picked up 2 burritos, a thigh n leg dinner, 3 sides n some churros. The chicken leg appeared much smaller than than a small cornish game hen’s. The classic burritos seemed to be nearly all rice, a half dozen beans and maybe three or four pieces of chicken that were smaller than a sugar cube FOR $5 EACH! $4 for a small (3 oz?) cup of cole slaw. Side of beans and mac n cheese were average at best. Clearly they’ve never tasted a real churro and the 5 small lousy ones they sold us for $6.50 were a disgrace. $35 later, after this awful dinner, I uninstalled their app.
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Victor cazares
Best chicken and cashier was Soo attentive . And just positives !! The vibes and everything about this place is special
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Deb J
Disappointed as this was the first time I’ve ordered the classic chicken burrito and there was not enough chicken in it to be able to tell that it was a chicken burrito
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Melvis Merdina
Great people working here and great food
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