COSTA MESA, Calif., March 02, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq:LOCO), the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken chain, opened its newest location in Escondido, CA. The new restaurant, located at 350 W. El Norte Pkwy., is owned and operated by Chic Pollo, LLC, an affiliate of Peg/Lion, LLC, a longtime El Pollo Loco franchisee. The new restaurant marks the 32^nd El Pollo Loco location operated by franchisees Aaron Pingel and Angel Lara and the third to open in Escondido.

"We are very excited to offer another convenient location in Escondido for guests to enjoy our delicious food, healthier options and great service," said Aaron Pingel and Angel Lara of Chic Pollo.  "El Pollo Loco's signature, citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken has been a staple in the Escondido community for years and we look forward to offering this experience to more area residents."

"We are thrilled to have such a great partner in Chic Pollo, who has been instrumental in helping our brand expand throughout the San Diego metro area," said Steve Sather, Chief Executive Officer at El Pollo Loco. "This restaurant is poised for success as Chic Pollo and Peg/Lion are skilled operators and have a long history with this brand. We invite the entire Escondido community to celebrate this opening and enjoy a burrito, salad, quesadilla, or family chicken meal."

The 2,434 square foot restaurant which features an open kitchen layout designed for customers to watch the signature chicken as it is grilled has indoor seating for 60 guests, as well as additional outdoor seating for 16. The restaurant is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

The new Escondido location will offer El Pollo Loco's new online and mobile ordering capabilities.  Guests are encouraged to download the El Pollo Loco app in the iTunes App Store or Google Play or visit order.elpolloloco.com to order and pay ahead, and avoid waiting in line.  

El Pollo Loco has exclusive multi-unit franchise opportunities available for highly qualified operators in Northern California, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.  For more information, visit www.elpolloloco.com/franchising.
About El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq:LOCO) is the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain renowned for its masterfully citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken and handcrafted entrees using fresh ingredients inspired by Mexican recipes. With more than 460 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah, El Pollo Loco is expanding its presence in key markets through a combination of company and existing and new franchisee development. Visit us on our website at ElPolloLoco.com.

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