COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 28, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq:LOCO), the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain, celebrated the grand opening of its newest location in Katy, TX on Tuesday, January 27. The new restaurant, located at 390 S. Mason Road, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring remarks from local dignitaries.

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"On behalf of Katy, I'd like to say that we are excited for the arrival of El Pollo Loco and its signature citrus-marinated and fire-grilled chicken to our city," said Ann Hodge, CEO and President, Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. "We are thrilled to see El Pollo Loco's dedication to expanding in the Houston area, bringing business and jobs to our community."

The new Katy location is the third in the greater-Houston area and 12^th in the state of Texas. El Pollo Loco has more than 400 restaurant locations in Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah and Texas and delivers its renowned citrus-marinated fire-grilled chicken and handcrafted entrees that use only the freshest ingredients to create authentic Mexican inspired recipes.

"We are pleased to join the community and appreciate the support of the local dignitaries and those who joined us in celebrating our ribbon cutting ceremony today," said David Aguilera, Director of Operations, El Pollo Loco.  "The greater Houston area has embraced the El Pollo Loco brand and we look forward to continuing our expansion and involvement in the community."

The 2,900 square-foot Katy El Pollo Loco has seating for 70 guests inside the dining room and incorporates the brand's hacienda design which features an open kitchen layout designed for customers to watch the signature chicken as it is grilled. The restaurant is open seven days a week from 10:00AM - 11:00 PM, with dine-in service concluding one hour prior to closing.

It's time to get crazy and join the El Pollo Loco eClub. Local fans are also encouraged to join the My Loco Rewards program for exclusive news, rewards and previews delivered to their inbox. My Loco Rewards also allows members to voice their opinion and learn from other passionate Grill Masters. For more information on El Pollo Loco, please visit www.ElPolloLoco.com or check us out on Facebook and Twitter.  

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 and fire-grilled chicken and handcrafted entrees using fresh ingredients inspired by authentic Mexican recipes. With more than 400 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah, El Pollo Loco will expand its presence in key markets through a combination of company and existing and new franchisee development. Some say the lengths we go to create fresh, delicious food are crazy. We say it's Crazy You Can Taste. Visit us on our website at ElPolloLoco.com. 

CONTACT: Media Contact:

         

         Alecia Pulman

         ICR Inc.

         203-682-8200

         LOCO@icrinc.com