El Pollo Loco opening new restaurants in multiple western states. Here's where.
The Mexican-style restaurant is based in California but plans to open at least 10 restaurants in 2025 in other states, an El Pollo Loco spokesperson confirmed on May 30. That includes the company's 500th restaurant, which is set for Colorado Springs, Colorado. According to the company, it's the largest system-wide expansion since 2022.
According to the spokesperson, the new additions will be constructed based on the company's new store design, which was unveiled in October 2024 as El Pollo Loco neared its 50th anniversary. New restaurants will feature updated branding elements, upgraded furniture and lighting, energy-efficient hoods and HVAC.
So far in 2025, El Pollo Loco has opened two new locations, both of them in California: one in Los Banos and another in Lompoc.
However, the company spokesperson said most future locations opening in 2025 are set for markets outside of California, including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Texas, and Washington.
The spokesperson said the company plans to open new locations in 2026 as well, including some in nontraditional locations like airports and university campuses.
Customers can expect to see locations open in 2026 or later in states like California, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and more.
El Pollo Loco serves chicken that's marinated using citrus and spices, then fire-grilled over a low flame for 60 minutes, as well as hand-smashed guacamole, salsa fresca and avocado salsa using real tomatoes, cilantro, and onion, according to its website.
Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: El Pollo Loco opening locations in six states this year. Here's where.
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