COSTA MESA, Calif., March 14, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq:LOCO), the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken chain, opened its newest location in Tucson, AZ today. The restaurant, located at 5601 E Broadway Blvd is the second to open in the city of Tucson.

"We are excited to continue expanding with the opening of our 21^st location in the state of Arizona and offer another conveniently located destination for individuals and families to enjoy our handcrafted dishes," said Steve Sather, Chief Executive Officer at El Pollo Loco. "Our signature citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken is a crowd pleaser and we look forward to sharing our flavorful chicken meals and Mexican-inspired entrees with the Tucson community."

The Company's signature citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken is artfully prepared fresh daily by El Pollo Loco's Grill Masters and then hand-cut, and served in its chicken meals and authentic Mexican-inspired entrees made with only the freshest ingredients. Whether guests are looking for a family chicken meal, burrito, salad, quesadilla or under 500 calorie options, El Pollo Loco has a wide variety of delicious offerings.

The 2,995 square foot restaurant has seating for 74 guests and features the brand's hacienda design, with an open kitchen layout for customers to view El Pollo Loco's signature chicken as it's fire-grilled. The restaurant is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with drive thru service concluding at 11 p.m.

El Pollo Loco fans are encouraged to join the Loco Rewards Program. New members that sign up will receive a voucher for a free order of chips and guacamole. Loco Rewards members also receive exclusive offers, information about new menu items, promotions, events and more. For more information on El Pollo Loco, please visit www.elpolloloco.com or check them out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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 430 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah, El Pollo Loco is expanding its presence in key markets like Houston and Dallas through a combination of company and existing and new franchisee development. Visit us on our website at ElPolloLoco.com.

Media Contact:
Kellie Duffy
ICR Inc.
203-682-8200
LOCO@icrinc.com