The food is good. Too bad the restaurant doesn't match their prices or quality of food. I'd say their burritos are comparable to Chipotle. This was my first time here and will not be going back. Mostly I just felt like there are so many other places with just as good of food that are priced much better and have a better environment, so why would I come here? Overall, poor value... $7 for just a decent burrito? No thanks. Not here.
(2)
Michael A.
I have to come inside the restaurant to make sure that my take out order will not be another mistake. Well, The gentlemen that took my order seems to have a hard time understanding my English. My order was speedy and no mistake this time. I am looking forward in the future of a service crew who can hear well when taking my order.
(3)
Michael L.
Beginning in Mexico originally as a Roadside Chicken Stand, El Pollo Loco has come a long way since opening it's first American El Pollo Loco on Alvarado Street in Los Angeles (I think sometime in 1980) In any event I love when I get to visit in Southern California & Arizona. That's when I get a chance to grab me some Pollo Loco !! Such a different chicken place from the others !! Their Fire Grilled Marinated process just makes the difference !! So Many Sides to choose from, it's getting me hungry just writing this review....... I have visited this location a few times during my visits and have always had good service. They have Horchata here too !!! Would be nice if they expanded the market to Washington State !! (Hint, Hint.......) I would definitely visit here again.
(4)
Kavin T.
Alright since I live in Arizona I have always passed by this place on my way to Harkins in Mesa, so I decided a pre Jurassic World meal at this location would be worth a try. I was greeted by a welcoming service but the food paled in comparison. I ordered the 2 piece thigh and wing combo with mac and cheese. Sadly, the mac and cheese was the best part of the meal. The chicken was dry and had no classic el pollo loco taste to it for a good kick to the meal. I had doubts unfortunately whether the meat was well cooked during my experience. Additionally, the portion was extremely small for a hefty $7 within a fast food setting and I was left famished after my meal. Based on the crowd within the restaurant consisting of me, myself and I, I understood the paucity of individuals at this restaurant. In the future, I hope the quality of food within this establishment is vastly improved, otherwise I'm afraid my sentiments will be echoed in similar fashion.
(2)
Adam G.
Bad bad very bad service... I've been here once before and had an ok experience ,thought I'd give it a second chance since it is close by.. as soon as i walked in i was greeted which was nice , but once i ordered i was given attitude while asking if i could have a side of corn . Apparently she didn't want to add it to my order after she got my total. I said nevermind ,paid and went to sit down. I couldn't help but notice her looking at me now and then while talking to other employees, but they called me up to get my food and they forgot to give me a cup for the drink i ordered. I asked about it and she was very rude saying i didnt pay for it when it clearly says on my receipt that i did. After a while of arguing i asked to see the manager , she informed me that she was the manager and didnt care what i had to say. All in all i was very unpleased with the service and attitude from her. I did get a glance of her name tag before she rudely walked away (still without my drink) , her name was Angie. I dont know if she was just angry that day , but that is no way to treat anybody, other customers expressed that they were also upset at what they witnessed. I will not be back.
(1)
Tash R.
I normally don't like to review chains but this is as a warning! I've been to other El Pollo Locos that were good but this one always has burnt chicken, we've gotten chicken bones in our meals two different times, and have experienced wrong orders.
(1)
Carla M.
Just moved to AZ from CA, was in the mood for EPL, so I came to this location since it was closest. I ordered a poblano burrito, it was very bland, not much flavor at all. The salsa bar salsas all looked watered down and the cilantro looked old and wilted. I won't be returning to this location.
(1)
Brian H.
It's the crazy chicken. You know what to expect when you go here. For those who don't know what to expect, it's a Mexican/American fast food restaurant that serves some satisfying flame grilled chicken at a low price. Remember that I said fast food, so this means it can potentially come with bad service (depending on the cashier) and crazy customers. I really do like this location though. I think I come here at least 1x/every week or every other week to get a fix of my pollo bowl, overly sweetened horchata, and some bomb guacamole salsa (I seriously think this is one of the best salsas I have ever had) They also have some great $5 deals going on every now and then. Not to mention the coupons they constantly give you for family meals and other smaller items. They also have a "dollar" menu but they are priced starting at $1.14 for a chicken taco, flan, a piece of chicken leg (yes just the leg), churros, and other things. It's quite a value meal deal. To me, if you don't like El Pollo Loco, then maybe your palate is just too fancy or just plain wrong. I support the crazy chicken!
(4)
Joe G.
Entered the drive through line at about 6 pm. I noticed the guy ahead of me giving a "thumbs down" sign out his window as he was ordering. When I ordered, I was advised that they had no white meat. Really? Now, I am stuck in this line and ended up getting legs and thighs. What kind of management lets this happen?
(1)
Marc T.
Worst El Pollo Loco I have been to in quite a while. Visited here on the 12 of September in the evening. The staff that night was very rude and not helpful at all. The service was terrible, when our food was ready our name wasn't even called. Not sure who the young lady is who may be a shift manager or manager of some sort, she is rude and had a group of friends or relatives in the restaurant getting free drinks and being very loud. Disappointed with this place and will never return to this location.
(1)
Nicholette S.
The food is good and a welcomed break from the average fast food joint. However, when I was eating there, something in their kitchen started beeping really loudly. I watched to see if anyone was going to turn off whatever was sounding the alarm...but no one looked affected b the noise. The beeping continued for over 8 minutes before I asked an employee what was making all that noise. She said they were cleaning some equipment. And asked if the noise was bothering me with a tone and look that showed she was confused that anyone would be complaining about it. It was very annoying and caused me to rush to finish my food just to get out of there before I ripped all my hair out. I only give them 3 stars because the food was good. Otherwise it would have been less just for the poor service and disregard for their customer's dining experience.
(3)
Ken G.
Food is OK if you go early. If not, it has been cooked for quite a while and can be dry and not the quality you would expect.
(3)
Nicole H.
My favorite spot for those nights when you don't want to cook but don't want to go to a restaurant. Very reasonably priced and the food is very good. Love the green guacamole salsa. They will also give you a bag of fresh serrano's if you ask.
(4)
Brian W.
a little pricey but, DAMN, that chicken is good!
(4)
Shannon B.
DO NOT EAT AT THIS LOCATION!!! The food was only average The restaurant was dirty It was 85 degrees in the dining room and the woman at the restaurant said she couldn't turn it down :-( To top it all off...I called the manager the next day to report that someone had fraudulently used my credit card the day after I used it at his restaurant. I wanted him to know, just in case there was a pattern. He was argumentative, not helpful or concerned at all. I have no reason to go back here.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Drive-Thru : Yes Caters : No
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Howard H.
The food is good. Too bad the restaurant doesn't match their prices or quality of food. I'd say their burritos are comparable to Chipotle. This was my first time here and will not be going back. Mostly I just felt like there are so many other places with just as good of food that are priced much better and have a better environment, so why would I come here? Overall, poor value... $7 for just a decent burrito? No thanks. Not here.
(2)Michael A.
I have to come inside the restaurant to make sure that my take out order will not be another mistake. Well, The gentlemen that took my order seems to have a hard time understanding my English. My order was speedy and no mistake this time. I am looking forward in the future of a service crew who can hear well when taking my order.
(3)Michael L.
Beginning in Mexico originally as a Roadside Chicken Stand, El Pollo Loco has come a long way since opening it's first American El Pollo Loco on Alvarado Street in Los Angeles (I think sometime in 1980) In any event I love when I get to visit in Southern California & Arizona. That's when I get a chance to grab me some Pollo Loco !! Such a different chicken place from the others !! Their Fire Grilled Marinated process just makes the difference !! So Many Sides to choose from, it's getting me hungry just writing this review....... I have visited this location a few times during my visits and have always had good service. They have Horchata here too !!! Would be nice if they expanded the market to Washington State !! (Hint, Hint.......) I would definitely visit here again.
(4)Kavin T.
Alright since I live in Arizona I have always passed by this place on my way to Harkins in Mesa, so I decided a pre Jurassic World meal at this location would be worth a try. I was greeted by a welcoming service but the food paled in comparison. I ordered the 2 piece thigh and wing combo with mac and cheese. Sadly, the mac and cheese was the best part of the meal. The chicken was dry and had no classic el pollo loco taste to it for a good kick to the meal. I had doubts unfortunately whether the meat was well cooked during my experience. Additionally, the portion was extremely small for a hefty $7 within a fast food setting and I was left famished after my meal. Based on the crowd within the restaurant consisting of me, myself and I, I understood the paucity of individuals at this restaurant. In the future, I hope the quality of food within this establishment is vastly improved, otherwise I'm afraid my sentiments will be echoed in similar fashion.
(2)Adam G.
Bad bad very bad service... I've been here once before and had an ok experience ,thought I'd give it a second chance since it is close by.. as soon as i walked in i was greeted which was nice , but once i ordered i was given attitude while asking if i could have a side of corn . Apparently she didn't want to add it to my order after she got my total. I said nevermind ,paid and went to sit down. I couldn't help but notice her looking at me now and then while talking to other employees, but they called me up to get my food and they forgot to give me a cup for the drink i ordered. I asked about it and she was very rude saying i didnt pay for it when it clearly says on my receipt that i did. After a while of arguing i asked to see the manager , she informed me that she was the manager and didnt care what i had to say. All in all i was very unpleased with the service and attitude from her. I did get a glance of her name tag before she rudely walked away (still without my drink) , her name was Angie. I dont know if she was just angry that day , but that is no way to treat anybody, other customers expressed that they were also upset at what they witnessed. I will not be back.
(1)Tash R.
I normally don't like to review chains but this is as a warning! I've been to other El Pollo Locos that were good but this one always has burnt chicken, we've gotten chicken bones in our meals two different times, and have experienced wrong orders.
(1)Carla M.
Just moved to AZ from CA, was in the mood for EPL, so I came to this location since it was closest. I ordered a poblano burrito, it was very bland, not much flavor at all. The salsa bar salsas all looked watered down and the cilantro looked old and wilted. I won't be returning to this location.
(1)Brian H.
It's the crazy chicken. You know what to expect when you go here. For those who don't know what to expect, it's a Mexican/American fast food restaurant that serves some satisfying flame grilled chicken at a low price. Remember that I said fast food, so this means it can potentially come with bad service (depending on the cashier) and crazy customers. I really do like this location though. I think I come here at least 1x/every week or every other week to get a fix of my pollo bowl, overly sweetened horchata, and some bomb guacamole salsa (I seriously think this is one of the best salsas I have ever had) They also have some great $5 deals going on every now and then. Not to mention the coupons they constantly give you for family meals and other smaller items. They also have a "dollar" menu but they are priced starting at $1.14 for a chicken taco, flan, a piece of chicken leg (yes just the leg), churros, and other things. It's quite a value meal deal. To me, if you don't like El Pollo Loco, then maybe your palate is just too fancy or just plain wrong. I support the crazy chicken!
(4)Joe G.
Entered the drive through line at about 6 pm. I noticed the guy ahead of me giving a "thumbs down" sign out his window as he was ordering. When I ordered, I was advised that they had no white meat. Really? Now, I am stuck in this line and ended up getting legs and thighs. What kind of management lets this happen?
(1)Marc T.
Worst El Pollo Loco I have been to in quite a while. Visited here on the 12 of September in the evening. The staff that night was very rude and not helpful at all. The service was terrible, when our food was ready our name wasn't even called. Not sure who the young lady is who may be a shift manager or manager of some sort, she is rude and had a group of friends or relatives in the restaurant getting free drinks and being very loud. Disappointed with this place and will never return to this location.
(1)Nicholette S.
The food is good and a welcomed break from the average fast food joint. However, when I was eating there, something in their kitchen started beeping really loudly. I watched to see if anyone was going to turn off whatever was sounding the alarm...but no one looked affected b the noise. The beeping continued for over 8 minutes before I asked an employee what was making all that noise. She said they were cleaning some equipment. And asked if the noise was bothering me with a tone and look that showed she was confused that anyone would be complaining about it. It was very annoying and caused me to rush to finish my food just to get out of there before I ripped all my hair out. I only give them 3 stars because the food was good. Otherwise it would have been less just for the poor service and disregard for their customer's dining experience.
(3)Ken G.
Food is OK if you go early. If not, it has been cooked for quite a while and can be dry and not the quality you would expect.
(3)Nicole H.
My favorite spot for those nights when you don't want to cook but don't want to go to a restaurant. Very reasonably priced and the food is very good. Love the green guacamole salsa. They will also give you a bag of fresh serrano's if you ask.
(4)Brian W.
a little pricey but, DAMN, that chicken is good!
(4)Shannon B.
DO NOT EAT AT THIS LOCATION!!! The food was only average The restaurant was dirty It was 85 degrees in the dining room and the woman at the restaurant said she couldn't turn it down :-( To top it all off...I called the manager the next day to report that someone had fraudulently used my credit card the day after I used it at his restaurant. I wanted him to know, just in case there was a pattern. He was argumentative, not helpful or concerned at all. I have no reason to go back here.
(1)