California's El Pollo Loco says it's found a sweet spot for concerned consumers

This is read by an automated voice.Please report any issues or inconsistencies here.

See more from the L.A.Times in Google Search.

Set us as preferred El Pollo Loco is riding a wave of momentum as it opens new restaurants and sits in a sweet spot for cost-conscious consumers.The Costa Mesa-based chain’s flame-grilled chicken is considered by many to be a step above fast food offerings from giants like McDonald’s and Wendy’s, but still costs less than pricier options such as Chipotle and Sweetgreen.Giving customers better quality at a better value — and focusing on bone-in chicken as the foundation of its menu — has helped the brand navigate the challenges that plague other players in the restaurant industry, analysts say.

Business The Newport Beach-based Mexican chain Chipotle saw its same-store sales decline in 2025 for the first time since the company went public in 2006.“This brand is going to be a growth story for the next couple of years,” said Chief Executive Liz Williams in an interview.“I think our food is more elevated than traditional quick service, yet we’re more affordable than fast casual.” The brand is expanding outside of its home of Southern California, with plans to open 25 to 30 new restaurants next year.

A third of the new restaurants will be in the Golden State, with the others scattered across the country.The chain opened restaurants in Washington and New Mexico last year, and has plans to open its first New York location in Queens by mid-2027.

It will end this year with roughly 20 new restaurants added, for a total of more than 500 in the U.S.“Part of the whole trend in the industry right now is trying to do fast casual quality at fast food prices,” said Aneurin Canham-Clyne, a reporter at the trade publication Restaurant Dive.“I think El Pollo Loco is pretty well situated for that trend.” Business The Scottsdale, Ariz.-based health food chain True Food Kitchen announced it filed for Chapter 11 bankrup...