<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  10.8.0.95 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 11/1/2024 9:08:05 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 11/1/2024 9:08:05 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsUnaudited" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsUnaudited" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsUnauditedParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsUnauditedParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeUnaudited" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeUnaudited" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncomeUnaudited" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncomeUnaudited" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInStockholdersEquityUnaudited" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInStockholdersEquityUnaudited" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsUnaudited" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsUnaudited" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPolicies" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPolicies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipment" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipment" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebt" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebt" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilities" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilities" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilities" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilities" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShare" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShare" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactions" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactions" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeases" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeases" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureShareholderRightsAgreement" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureShareholderRightsAgreement" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicies" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeasesTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLiquidityAndSubsequentEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLiquidityAndSubsequentEventsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesConcentrationOfRiskDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesConcentrationOfRiskDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesGoodwillAndIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesGoodwillAndIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueMeasurementsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueMeasurementsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesImpairmentOfPropertyAndEquipmentAndRouAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesImpairmentOfPropertyAndEquipmentAndRouAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesGainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesGainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesIncomeTaxesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesIncomeTaxesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentScheduleOfCostsAndRelatedAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationOfMajorClassesOfPropertyDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentScheduleOfCostsAndRelatedAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationOfMajorClassesOfPropertyDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationChangesInStockOptionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationChangesInStockOptionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationWeightedAverageAssumptionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationWeightedAverageAssumptionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationScheduleOfChangesInRestrictedSharesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationScheduleOfChangesInRestrictedSharesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationShareRepurchasesProgramDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationShareRepurchasesProgramDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesScheduleOfOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesScheduleOfOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesScheduleOfOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesScheduleOfOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareComputationOfBasicAndDilutedNetIncomePerShareDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareComputationOfBasicAndDilutedNetIncomePerShareDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareScheduleOfReconciliationOfBasicAndDilutedShareCountsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareScheduleOfReconciliationOfBasicAndDilutedShareCountsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByGeographicMarketDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByGeographicMarketDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersChangeInContractLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersChangeInContractLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeasesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeasesLeaseCostDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLeaseCostDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeasesCashAndNonCashLeaseActivitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesCashAndNonCashLeaseActivitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeasesMinimumFutureLeaseObligationsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesMinimumFutureLeaseObligationsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureLeasesLessorDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLessorDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#DisclosureShareholderRightsAgreementDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureShareholderRightsAgreementDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/2024/ecd-2024.xsd#InsiderTradingArrangements" roleURI="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/role/InsiderTradingArrangements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200090 - Document - Document and Entity Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:label="dei_CoverAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentInformationTable" xlink:label="dei_DocumentInformationTable_638660920816086257" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentInformationTable_638660920816086257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_638660920816086257" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationTable_638660920816086257" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_638660920816086257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920816086257" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_638660920816086257" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920816086257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_638660920816086257" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920816086257" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_638660920816086257" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_RightsToPurchaseSeriesPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="loco_RightsToPurchaseSeriesPreferredStockMember_638660920816086257" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920816086257" xlink:to="loco_RightsToPurchaseSeriesPreferredStockMember_638660920816086257" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentInformationLineItems" xlink:label="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationTable_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType_638660920816096221" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_638660920816096221" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_638660920816096221" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_638660920816096221" order="4" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber_638660920816096221" order="5" use="optional" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName_638660920816096221" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_638660920816096221" order="7" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_638660920816096221" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_638660920816096221" order="8" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_638660920816105947" order="9" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2_638660920816105947" order="10" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_638660920816105947" order="11" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_638660920816105947" order="12" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_638660920816105947" order="13" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode_638660920816105947" order="14" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_638660920816105947" order="15" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle_638660920816105947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle_638660920816105947" order="16" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol_638660920816115923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol_638660920816115923" order="17" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_NoTradingSymbolFlag" xlink:label="dei_NoTradingSymbolFlag_638660920816115923" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_NoTradingSymbolFlag_638660920816115923" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName_638660920816176017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName_638660920816176017" order="19" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_638660920816176017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_638660920816176017" order="20" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_638660920816176017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_638660920816176017" order="21" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory_638660920816186036" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory_638660920816186036" order="22" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_638660920816186036" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_638660920816186036" order="23" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_638660920816186036" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_638660920816186036" order="24" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany_638660920816186036" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany_638660920816186036" order="25" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_638660920816186036" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_638660920816186036" order="26" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_638660920816195888" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_638660920816195888" order="27" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_638660920816195888" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_638660920816195888" order="28" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_638660920816195888" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_638660920816195888" order="29" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_638660920816195888" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_638660920816195888" order="30" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag_638660920816195888" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_DocumentInformationLineItems_638660920816086257" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag_638660920816195888" order="31" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsUnaudited" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200100 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_6B3A5BF39C8B6C78A9CAAC04DC38E077" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_6B3A5BF39C8B6C78A9CAAC04DC38E077" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638660920816205665" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsAndOtherReceivablesNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsAndOtherReceivablesNetCurrent_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsAndOtherReceivablesNetCurrent_638660920816205665" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryNet_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryNet_638660920816205665" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_638660920816205665" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable_638660920816205665" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable_638660920816205665" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_638660920816215622" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_638660920816215622" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638660920816215622" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638660920816215622" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_638660920816215622" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedTrademarks" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedTrademarks_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedTrademarks_638660920816215622" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_638660920816215622" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638660920816205665" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_638660920816215622" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_6B3A5BF39C8B6C78A9CAAC04DC38E077" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920816225622" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920816225622" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_638660920816225622" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816225622" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedInsuranceCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedInsuranceCurrent_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedInsuranceCurrent_638660920816225622" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent_638660920816225622" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent_638660920816225622" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_638660920816235639" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PayableUnderTaxReceivableAgreementCurrent" xlink:label="loco_PayableUnderTaxReceivableAgreementCurrent_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="loco_PayableUnderTaxReceivableAgreementCurrent_638660920816235639" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816235639" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638660920816225622" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816235639" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit_638660920816235639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920816235639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920816235639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920816235639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_638660920816245819" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_638660920816245819" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638660920816245819" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638660920816245819" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities_638660920816245819" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities_638660920816245819" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_638660920816245819" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_638660920816245819" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue_638660920816255659" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue_638660920816255659" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_638660920816255659" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_638660920816255659" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_638660920816255659" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_638660920816255659" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_638660920816255659" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_638660920816255659" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638660920816255659" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816255659" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638660920816255659" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_638660920816265645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638660920816215622" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_638660920816265645" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsUnauditedParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200105 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920816265645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920816265645" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_638660920816265645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_638660920816265645" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfPreferredStockSharesDesignated" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfPreferredStockSharesDesignated_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfPreferredStockSharesDesignated_638660920816275628" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued_638660920816275628" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_638660920816275628" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920816275628" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_638660920816275628" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638660920816275628" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_4289F4D4F63C5B63B11EB3159C7BF002" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_638660920816275628" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfIncomeUnaudited" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200200 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_09B67647A25AF26A0E6AAE7152C3E516" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_09B67647A25AF26A0E6AAE7152C3E516" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816275628" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920816275628" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816275628" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920816275628" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920816275628" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816285947" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920816285947" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920816285947" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816285947" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember_638660920816285947" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816275628" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract_638660920816285947" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax_638660920816285947" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostDirectMaterial" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostDirectMaterial_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostDirectMaterial_638660920816285947" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostDirectLabor" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostDirectLabor_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostDirectLabor_638660920816285947" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating_638660920816285947" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating_638660920816285947" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery_638660920816296010" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery_638660920816296010" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_CompanyRestaurantExpenses" xlink:label="loco_CompanyRestaurantExpenses_638660920816296010" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="loco_CompanyRestaurantExpenses_638660920816296010" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_638660920816296010" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_638660920816296010" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorCosts_638660920816296010" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorCosts_638660920816296010" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638660920816296010" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638660920816296010" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_638660920816305964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_638660920816305964" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipment" xlink:label="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipment_638660920816305964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipment_638660920816305964" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_638660920816305964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_638660920816305964" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringCostsAndAssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringCostsAndAssetImpairmentCharges_638660920816305964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringCostsAndAssetImpairmentCharges_638660920816305964" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses_638660920816305964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses_638660920816305964" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_638660920816305964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_638660920816305964" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseNonoperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseNonoperating_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseNonoperating_638660920816315980" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" xlink:label="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses_638660920816315980" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_638660920816315980" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638660920816315980" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816315980" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_638660920816315980" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638660920816315980" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_638660920816315980" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638660920816315980" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638660920816325929" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_638660920816315980" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638660920816325929" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816325929" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816285947" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816325929" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638660920816325929" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816325929" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638660920816325929" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638660920816325929" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816325929" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638660920816325929" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncomeUnaudited" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200300 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_4D3D6BA59CEC3E9AD083AC04DBEE37EE" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_4D3D6BA59CEC3E9AD083AC04DBEE37EE" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816336060" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_4D3D6BA59CEC3E9AD083AC04DBEE37EE" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax_638660920816336060" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationTax_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_4D3D6BA59CEC3E9AD083AC04DBEE37EE" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationTax_638660920816336060" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_4D3D6BA59CEC3E9AD083AC04DBEE37EE" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax_638660920816336060" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfOtherComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_4D3D6BA59CEC3E9AD083AC04DBEE37EE" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_638660920816336060" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInStockholdersEquityUnaudited" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200400 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_D2ECFC311E9B9824EA7AAC83E74D8430" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_D2ECFC311E9B9824EA7AAC83E74D8430" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816336060" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_638660920816336060" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_638660920816336060" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_638660920816345709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_638660920816345709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_638660920816345709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638660920816345709" order="5" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_638660920816336060" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816345709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding_638660920816345709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638660920816345709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue_638660920816345709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross_638660920816345709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross_638660920816345709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross_638660920816355945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_638660920816355945" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_638660920816355945" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_638660920816355945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816355945" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816355945" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816355945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue_638660920816355945" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue_638660920816355945" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares_638660920816355945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalExerciseTaxOnRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="loco_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalExerciseTaxOnRepurchaseOfCommonStock_638660920816355945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="loco_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalExerciseTaxOnRepurchaseOfCommonStock_638660920816355945" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue_638660920816365946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue_638660920816365946" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod_638660920816365946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue_638660920816365946" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod_638660920816365946" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax_638660920816365946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax_638660920816365946" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816365946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816365946" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding_638660920816365946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding_638660920816365946" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638660920816365946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638660920816345709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638660920816365946" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlowsUnaudited" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200500 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_638660920816376067" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638660920816376067" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638660920816376067" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" xlink:label="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses_638660920816376067" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses_638660920816376067" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementOperatingActivities_638660920816385986" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_638660920816385986" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets_638660920816385986" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipmentNet_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipmentNet_638660920816385986" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PropertyEquipmentAndCertainRouAssetsImpairment" xlink:label="loco_PropertyEquipmentAndCertainRouAssetsImpairment_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="loco_PropertyEquipmentAndCertainRouAssetsImpairment_638660920816385986" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts_638660920816385986" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638660920816385986" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndOtherReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndOtherReceivables_638660920816385986" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndOtherReceivables_638660920816385986" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories_638660920816395968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories_638660920816395968" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets_638660920816395968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets_638660920816395968" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxes_638660920816395968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxes_638660920816395968" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_638660920816395968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_638660920816395968" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable_638660920816395968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable_638660920816395968" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInEmployeeRelatedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInEmployeeRelatedLiabilities_638660920816395968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInEmployeeRelatedLiabilities_638660920816395968" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInsuranceLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInsuranceLiabilities_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInsuranceLiabilities_638660920816405648" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement_638660920816405648" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedLiabilities_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638660920816385986" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedLiabilities_638660920816405648" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_638660920816405648" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816405648" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816405648" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses_638660920816405648" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities_638660920816405648" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816405648" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities_638660920816405648" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment_638660920816416032" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816405648" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment_638660920816416032" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_638660920816416032" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816405648" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_638660920816416032" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSecuredLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSecuredLinesOfCredit_638660920816416032" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSecuredLinesOfCredit_638660920816416032" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit_638660920816416032" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit_638660920816416032" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816416032" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638660920816416032" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_638660920816425951" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock_638660920816425951" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638660920816425951" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638660920816425951" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock_638660920816425951" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock_638660920816425951" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_638660920816425951" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638660920816416032" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_638660920816425951" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseExcludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseExcludingExchangeRateEffect_638660920816425951" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseExcludingExchangeRateEffect_638660920816425951" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_638660920816435954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_638660920816435954" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6386609208164359541" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6386609208164359541" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract_638660920816435954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingCashFlowsDirectMethodAbstract_638660920816376067" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract_638660920816435954" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_638660920816435954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract_638660920816435954" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_638660920816435954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet_638660920816435954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract_638660920816435954" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet_638660920816435954" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_638660920816445955" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract_638660920816435954" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_638660920816445955" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_StockRepurchaseAccruedNotPaidIncludingExerciseTax" xlink:label="loco_StockRepurchaseAccruedNotPaidIncludingExerciseTax_638660920816445955" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowElementsAbstract_638660920816435954" xlink:to="loco_StockRepurchaseAccruedNotPaidIncludingExerciseTax_638660920816445955" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPolicies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210101 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_865C28545C0256BA80A03AB9C8958984" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock_638660920816455945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_865C28545C0256BA80A03AB9C8958984" xlink:to="us-gaap_BasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock_638660920816455945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipment" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210201 - Disclosure - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_F12029709E2455B2A2E8F7FAF55DC038" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816455945" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_F12029709E2455B2A2E8F7FAF55DC038" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816455945" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210301 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_65B676054FCF52F5AD9C84B3BBF259FA" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_638660920816465961" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_65B676054FCF52F5AD9C84B3BBF259FA" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock_638660920816465961" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebt" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210401 - Disclosure - LONG-TERM DEBT" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_D2112732C0E254DFB47508F27EB8F46A" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816465961" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_D2112732C0E254DFB47508F27EB8F46A" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816465961" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilities" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210501 - Disclosure - OTHER ACCRUED EXPENSES AND CURRENT LIABILITIES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_1583DF2BD0265C03B4B6593B1468F8D5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableAccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLiabilitiesDisclosureCurrentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLiabilitiesDisclosureCurrentTextBlock_638660920816465961" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_1583DF2BD0265C03B4B6593B1468F8D5" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLiabilitiesDisclosureCurrentTextBlock_638660920816465961" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilities" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210601 - Disclosure - OTHER NONCURRENT LIABILITIES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816475635" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816475635" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210701 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_1B6BD7FEC4F958288ABE1BD952D39F40" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816475635" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_1B6BD7FEC4F958288ABE1BD952D39F40" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816475635" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShare" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210801 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_80CA173EC5DE57649673B9651281329A" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_638660920816475635" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_80CA173EC5DE57649673B9651281329A" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_638660920816475635" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactions" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210901 - Disclosure - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsAbstract_8B5BD03166ED58F187EAAB9C9DB2E037" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816485970" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsAbstract_8B5BD03166ED58F187EAAB9C9DB2E037" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816485970" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211001 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_0FD54B86CD46507E857FF8F010C7BD40" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_638660920816485970" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_0FD54B86CD46507E857FF8F010C7BD40" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_638660920816485970" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeases" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211101 - Disclosure - LEASES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_863F0054779B595BA987930D8D9138B6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LeaseDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="loco_LeaseDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816495943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_863F0054779B595BA987930D8D9138B6" xlink:to="loco_LeaseDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816495943" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureShareholderRightsAgreement" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211201 - Disclosure - SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS AGREEMENT" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816495943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureTextBlock_638660920816495943" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99920102 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816495943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816495943" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock_638660920816495943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationPolicyTextBlock_638660920816495943" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:label="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates_638660920816505640" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LiquidityPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="loco_LiquidityPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="loco_LiquidityPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskCreditRisk" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskCreditRisk_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskCreditRisk_638660920816505640" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOrDisposalOfLongLivedAssetsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOrDisposalOfLongLivedAssetsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOrDisposalOfLongLivedAssetsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAssociatedWithExitOrDisposalActivitiesOrRestructuringsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAssociatedWithExitOrDisposalActivitiesOrRestructuringsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAssociatedWithExitOrDisposalActivitiesOrRestructuringsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DispositionOfRestaurantsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="loco_DispositionOfRestaurantsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="loco_DispositionOfRestaurantsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930103 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnNonrecurringBasisTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnNonrecurringBasisTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnNonrecurringBasisTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930203 - Disclosure - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_DED32A96F8F25F8A86162CC6EB7C832B" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_DED32A96F8F25F8A86162CC6EB7C832B" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930303 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_4DCE5B191BCDFA88483AAC83E5595EEA" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_4DCE5B191BCDFA88483AAC83E5595EEA" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardStockOptionsValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardStockOptionsValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_4DCE5B191BCDFA88483AAC83E5595EEA" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedPaymentAwardStockOptionsValuationAssumptionsTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_4DCE5B191BCDFA88483AAC83E5595EEA" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonvestedRestrictedStockSharesActivityTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930503 - Disclosure - OTHER ACCRUED EXPENSES AND CURRENT LIABILITIES (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_026DCA6F7EA85048A9C508E1B1EE4C94" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_026DCA6F7EA85048A9C508E1B1EE4C94" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930603 - Disclosure - OTHER NONCURRENT LIABILITIES (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930803 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_90FDAA7909C45F13B10D28001EA810DC" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_90FDAA7909C45F13B10D28001EA810DC" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfWeightedAverageNumberOfSharesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfWeightedAverageNumberOfSharesTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_90FDAA7909C45F13B10D28001EA810DC" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfWeightedAverageNumberOfSharesTableTextBlock_638660920816505640" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931003 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_0B811958FAFF518391CDEB574DC006C3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_0B811958FAFF518391CDEB574DC006C3" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920816505640" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920816505640" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816505640" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" xlink:label="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920816505640" xlink:to="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember_638660920816505640" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920816505640" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920816505640" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920816505640" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920816552134" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920816505640" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920816552134" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromExternalCustomersByGeographicAreasTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromExternalCustomersByGeographicAreasTableTextBlock_638660920816552134" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920816552134" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromExternalCustomersByGeographicAreasTableTextBlock_638660920816552134" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndLiabilityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndLiabilityTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920816552134" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndLiabilityTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920816552134" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931103 - Disclosure - LEASES (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_FD6FB5F58F143C389E73AE6CBE1FF1B6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_FD6FB5F58F143C389E73AE6CBE1FF1B6" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_FD6FB5F58F143C389E73AE6CBE1FF1B6" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_FD6FB5F58F143C389E73AE6CBE1FF1B6" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638660920816557135" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940101 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_BAE0E733AD98E5F47E47ADC412E5A2E5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_BAE0E733AD98E5F47E47ADC412E5A2E5" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember_638660920816565933" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816565933" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816565933" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816565933" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2024/country-2024.xsd#country_PH" xlink:label="country_PH_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816565933" xlink:to="country_PH_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816565933" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments_638660920816565933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments_638660920816565933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816565933" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants_638660920816576017" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLiquidityAndSubsequentEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940102 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Liquidity and subsequent events (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_4" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816576017" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_638660920816576017" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_638660920816576017" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_638660920816576017" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_638660920816576017" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_638660920816576017" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_638660920816576017" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638660920816576017" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638660920816576017" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638660920816576017" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816585952" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:label="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816585952" xlink:to="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember_638660920816585952" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816576017" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816585952" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816585952" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_638660920816585952" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816585952" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638660920816585952" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermLinesOfCredit_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816585952" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermLinesOfCredit_638660920816585952" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit_638660920816585952" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816585952" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit_638660920816585952" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesConcentrationOfRiskDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940103 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Concentration of Risk (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_5" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816596358" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816596358" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816596358" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LosAngelesMember" xlink:label="loco_LosAngelesMember_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816596358" xlink:to="loco_LosAngelesMember_638660920816596358" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638660920816596358" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920816596358" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SupplierConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplierConcentrationRiskMember_638660920816596358" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplierConcentrationRiskMember_638660920816596358" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember_638660920816605637" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_638660920816605637" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_638660920816605637" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_638660920816605637" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_SupplierOneMember" xlink:label="loco_SupplierOneMember_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_638660920816605637" xlink:to="loco_SupplierOneMember_638660920816605637" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LargestSupplierOneMember" xlink:label="loco_LargestSupplierOneMember_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_638660920816605637" xlink:to="loco_LargestSupplierOneMember_638660920816605637" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638660920816605637" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638660920816605637" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920816605637" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PurchasedMember" xlink:label="loco_PurchasedMember_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920816605637" xlink:to="loco_PurchasedMember_638660920816605637" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableMember_638660920816605637" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920816605637" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableMember_638660920816605637" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920816605637" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638660920816615978" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638660920816596358" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638660920816615978" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfSuppliers" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfSuppliers_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638660920816615978" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfSuppliers_638660920816615978" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638660920816615978" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1_638660920816615978" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesGoodwillAndIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940104 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportingUnits" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportingUnits_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_6" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportingUnits_638660920816615978" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_6" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit_638660920816615978" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetImpairment" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetImpairment_638660920816615978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_6" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetImpairment_638660920816615978" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueMeasurementsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940105 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Fair Value Measurements (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_F1090BD90660D2F3F199AE702F6FAEE2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_F1090BD90660D2F3F199AE702F6FAEE2" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_638660920816625936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_638660920816625936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_638660920816625936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember_638660920816625936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_638660920816625936" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638660920816625936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_638660920816625936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member_638660920816625936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member_638660920816636034" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member_638660920816636034" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_638660920816625936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_CertainPropertyPlantAndEquipmentHeldForSale" xlink:label="loco_CertainPropertyPlantAndEquipmentHeldForSale_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" xlink:to="loco_CertainPropertyPlantAndEquipmentHeldForSale_638660920816636034" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_RightOfUseAssetsNet" xlink:label="loco_RightOfUseAssetsNet_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" xlink:to="loco_RightOfUseAssetsNet_638660920816636034" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse_638660920816636034" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentLongLivedAssetHeldForUseStatementOfIncomeOrComprehensiveIncomeExtensibleEnumeration" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentLongLivedAssetHeldForUseStatementOfIncomeOrComprehensiveIncomeExtensibleEnumeration_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentLongLivedAssetHeldForUseStatementOfIncomeOrComprehensiveIncomeExtensibleEnumeration_638660920816636034" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ImpairmentOfRightOfUseAssets" xlink:label="loco_ImpairmentOfRightOfUseAssets_638660920816636034" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_638660920816636034" xlink:to="loco_ImpairmentOfRightOfUseAssets_638660920816636034" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesImpairmentOfPropertyAndEquipmentAndRouAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940106 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Impairment of Property and Equipment and ROU Assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_7" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816647391" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816647391" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816647391" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920816647391" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816647391" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024/stpr-2024.xsd#stpr_CA" xlink:label="stpr_CA_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816647391" xlink:to="stpr_CA_638660920816647391" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024/stpr-2024.xsd#stpr_NV" xlink:label="stpr_NV_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920816647391" xlink:to="stpr_NV_638660920816647391" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816647391" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816647391" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920816647391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816647391" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920816647391" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816656144" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816647391" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816656144" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816656144" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816647391" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816656144" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges_638660920816656144" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816656144" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges_638660920816656144" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsWithCarryingValueOfRouAssetsWithImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsWithCarryingValueOfRouAssetsWithImpairmentCharges_638660920816656144" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816656144" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsWithCarryingValueOfRouAssetsWithImpairmentCharges_638660920816656144" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringCosts_638660920816656144" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816656144" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringCosts_638660920816656144" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesGainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940107 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Gain on Recovery of Insurance Proceeds (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_8" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816656144" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_8" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816656144" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossAxis_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816656144" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossAxis_638660920816665954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossDomain_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossAxis_638660920816665954" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossDomain_638660920816665954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FireMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FireMember_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessInterruptionLossDomain_638660920816665954" xlink:to="us-gaap_FireMember_638660920816665954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816656144" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816665954" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816665954" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920816665954" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816665954" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816665954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable_638660920816656144" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants_638660920816665954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery_638660920816665954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery_638660920816665954" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_BusinessInterruptionInsuranceCost" xlink:label="loco_BusinessInterruptionInsuranceCost_638660920816675815" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="loco_BusinessInterruptionInsuranceCost_638660920816675815" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipment" xlink:label="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipment_638660920816675815" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="loco_GainOnRecoveryOfInsuranceProceedsForPropertyAndEquipment_638660920816675815" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementNetInvestingActivities" xlink:label="loco_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementNetInvestingActivities_638660920816675815" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="loco_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementNetInvestingActivities_638660920816675815" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold_638660920816675815" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold_638660920816675815" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses_638660920816675815" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses_638660920816675815" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_638660920816675815" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems_638660920816665954" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness_638660920816675815" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesIncomeTaxesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940108 - Disclosure - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Income Taxes (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestExpense_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestExpense_638660920816685725" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued_638660920816685725" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" xlink:label="loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders_638660920816685725" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PaymentToSellersForTerminationOfObligationsUnderTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_PaymentToSellersForTerminationOfObligationsUnderTaxReceivableAgreement_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="loco_PaymentToSellersForTerminationOfObligationsUnderTaxReceivableAgreement_638660920816685725" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" xlink:label="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses_638660920816685725" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638660920816685725" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_638660920816685725" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate_638660920816685725" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement_638660920816685725" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_9" xlink:to="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement_638660920816685725" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentScheduleOfCostsAndRelatedAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationOfMajorClassesOfPropertyDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940201 - Disclosure - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT - Schedule of Costs and Related Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization of Major Classes of Property (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_30EAA0BA07CA5556B331C9B4F28CE7F6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_30EAA0BA07CA5556B331C9B4F28CE7F6" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638660920816695933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920816695933" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920816695933" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LandMember_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_LandMember_638660920816695933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember_638660920816695933" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherTypesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherTypesMember_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherTypesMember_638660920816695933" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember_638660920816695933" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638660920816695933" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638660920816695933" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638660920816695933" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638660920816705858" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638660920816705858" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638660920816705858" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638660920816695933" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638660920816705858" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940202 - Disclosure - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_37676D6F5507868EFBA8AE75F7F8CD64" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638660920816705858" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_37676D6F5507868EFBA8AE75F7F8CD64" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638660920816705858" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse_638660920816705858" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_37676D6F5507868EFBA8AE75F7F8CD64" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse_638660920816705858" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges_638660920816705858" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAbstract_37676D6F5507868EFBA8AE75F7F8CD64" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges_638660920816705858" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940301 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_7CA0CEF078D5DB58F107AD27A51590FC" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_7CA0CEF078D5DB58F107AD27A51590FC" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_638660920816716030" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_638660920816716030" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_638660920816716030" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_638660920816716030" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember_638660920816716030" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_638660920816716030" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_638660920816716030" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816716030" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816716030" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920816716030" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816716030" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816716030" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_638660920816725968" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingVestedNumberOfShares" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingVestedNumberOfShares_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingVestedNumberOfShares_638660920816725968" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsNonvestedNumberOfShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsNonvestedNumberOfShares_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsNonvestedNumberOfShares_638660920816725968" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_638660920816725968" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_638660920816725968" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions_638660920816725968" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions_638660920816725968" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_638660920816725968" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1_638660920816725968" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1_638660920816725968" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638660920816736115" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_638660920816716030" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638660920816736115" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationChangesInStockOptionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940302 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Changes in Stock Options (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_EE2FEFE9E1555244BFC8A5EFB63AAC10" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_EE2FEFE9E1555244BFC8A5EFB63AAC10" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_638660920816736115" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_638660920816736115" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_638660920816736115" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross_638660920816736115" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_638660920816736115" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_638660920816736115" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriod_638660920816745948" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber_638660920816745948" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber_638660920816745948" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingRollForward_638660920816736115" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber_638660920816745948" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_EE2FEFE9E1555244BFC8A5EFB63AAC10" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresAndExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816745948" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_6386609208167459481" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice_6386609208167459481" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816755921" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePriceRollforward_638660920816745948" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice_638660920816755921" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_EE2FEFE9E1555244BFC8A5EFB63AAC10" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816755921" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816755921" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2_638660920816755921" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816755921" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_638660920816755921" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAdditionalDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816755921" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm1_638660920816755921" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestAbstract_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_EE2FEFE9E1555244BFC8A5EFB63AAC10" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestAbstract_638660920816755921" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_638660920816755921" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestAbstract_638660920816755921" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue_638660920816755921" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableAggregateIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableAggregateIntrinsicValue_638660920816765935" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestAbstract_638660920816755921" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestExercisableAggregateIntrinsicValue_638660920816765935" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1_638660920816765935" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestAbstract_638660920816755921" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1_638660920816765935" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationWeightedAverageAssumptionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940303 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Weighted Average Assumptions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_7CA0CEF078D5DB58F107AD27A51590FC_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate_638660920816765935" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_7CA0CEF078D5DB58F107AD27A51590FC_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate_638660920816765935" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate_638660920816765935" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_7CA0CEF078D5DB58F107AD27A51590FC_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate_638660920816765935" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_638660920816765935" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_7CA0CEF078D5DB58F107AD27A51590FC_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_638660920816765935" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationScheduleOfChangesInRestrictedSharesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940304 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Schedule of Changes in Restricted Shares (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_6BBBC36339EC54ABA152FBE09764B216" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_6BBBC36339EC54ABA152FBE09764B216" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_638660920816775927" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_638660920816775927" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_638660920816775927" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_638660920816775927" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_638660920816775927" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_638660920816775927" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod_638660920816775927" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod_638660920816775927" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6386609208167759271" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber_6386609208167759271" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_6BBBC36339EC54ABA152FBE09764B216" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816785953" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816785953" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816785953" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816785953" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816785953" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816785953" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresAndExpiredWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresAndExpiredWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816846240" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresAndExpiredWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816846240" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816846240" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward_638660920816775927" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_638660920816846240" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationShareRepurchasesProgramDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940305 - Disclosure - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Share Repurchases program (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_638660920816846240" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_638660920816846240" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_638660920816846240" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_638660920816846240" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_638660920816846240" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_638660920816846240" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_638660920816846240" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_638660920816846240" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareRepurchaseProgram2023Member" xlink:label="loco_ShareRepurchaseProgram2023Member_638660920816846240" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_638660920816846240" xlink:to="loco_ShareRepurchaseProgram2023Member_638660920816846240" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_638660920816846240" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_638660920816855934" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis_638660920816855934" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638660920816855934" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_FsEquityPartnersVL.p.AndFsAffiliatesVL.pMember" xlink:label="loco_FsEquityPartnersVL.p.AndFsAffiliatesVL.pMember_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_638660920816855934" xlink:to="loco_FsEquityPartnersVL.p.AndFsAffiliatesVL.pMember_638660920816855934" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_638660920816846240" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_638660920816855934" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" xlink:label="srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_638660920816855934" xlink:to="srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1_638660920816855934" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_638660920816855934" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares_638660920816855934" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_638660920816855934" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue_638660920816855934" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1_638660920816855934" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_638660920816855934" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1_638660920816855934" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940401 - Disclosure - LONG-TERM DEBT (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_E93E9A7DA2BEFC1E1025AE059C77F561" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_E93E9A7DA2BEFC1E1025AE059C77F561" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_SwingLineLoansMember" xlink:label="loco_SwingLineLoansMember_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember_638660920816865936" xlink:to="loco_SwingLineLoansMember_638660920816865936" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638660920816865936" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:label="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816865936" xlink:to="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember_638660920816865936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandEighteenMember" xlink:label="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandEighteenMember_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638660920816865936" xlink:to="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandEighteenMember_638660920816865936" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_638660920816865936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_638660920816865936" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_638660920816875981" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FederalFundsEffectiveSwapRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FederalFundsEffectiveSwapRateMember_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_638660920816875981" xlink:to="us-gaap_FederalFundsEffectiveSwapRateMember_638660920816875981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_638660920816875981" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember_638660920816875981" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OneMonthSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember" xlink:label="loco_OneMonthSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_638660920816875981" xlink:to="loco_OneMonthSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember_638660920816875981" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BaseRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BaseRateMember_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_638660920816875981" xlink:to="us-gaap_BaseRateMember_638660920816875981" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_638660920816875981" order="4" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_638660920816875981" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_638660920816875981" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember_638660920816875981" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_638660920816875981" xlink:to="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember_638660920816875981" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816885937" order="5" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816885937" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920816885937" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816885937" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638660920816885937" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816885937" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816885937" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638660920816865936" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_638660920816885937" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm_638660920816885937" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity_638660920816885937" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity_638660920816885937" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_638660920816895943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_638660920816895943" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1_638660920816895943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1_638660920816895943" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod_638660920816895943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod_638660920816895943" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount_638660920816895943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount_638660920816895943" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit_638660920816895943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit_638660920816895943" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity_638660920816895943" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity_638660920816895943" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit_638660920816905941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit_638660920816905941" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit_638660920816905941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit_638660920816905941" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentPrincipal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentPrincipal_638660920816905941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentPrincipal_638660920816905941" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRepurchaseOrRedemptionOfQualifiedEntityInterest" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRepurchaseOrRedemptionOfQualifiedEntityInterest_638660920816905941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRepurchaseOrRedemptionOfQualifiedEntityInterest_638660920816905941" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRedemptionRepurchaseAcquiredEquityInterests" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRedemptionRepurchaseAcquiredEquityInterests_638660920816905941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRedemptionRepurchaseAcquiredEquityInterests_638660920816905941" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForStockOptionPlanEmploymentAgreementsAndIncentivePlans" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForStockOptionPlanEmploymentAgreementsAndIncentivePlans_638660920816915956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForStockOptionPlanEmploymentAgreementsAndIncentivePlans_638660920816915956" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForOtherRestrictedPayments" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForOtherRestrictedPayments_638660920816915956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForOtherRestrictedPayments_638660920816915956" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescriptionMaximumLeverageRatio" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescriptionMaximumLeverageRatio_638660920816915956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638660920816885937" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescriptionMaximumLeverageRatio_638660920816915956" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesScheduleOfOtherAccruedExpensesAndCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940501 - Disclosure - OTHER ACCRUED EXPENSES AND CURRENT LIABILITIES - Schedule of Other Accrued Expenses and Current Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_TaxesPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxesPayableCurrent_638660920816915956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxesPayableCurrent_638660920816915956" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_638660920816926203" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgram" xlink:label="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgram_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgram_638660920816926203" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrent_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrent_638660920816926203" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedProfessionalFeesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedProfessionalFeesCurrent_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedProfessionalFeesCurrent_638660920816926203" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DeferredFranchiseAndDevelopmentFeeCurrent" xlink:label="loco_DeferredFranchiseAndDevelopmentFeeCurrent_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="loco_DeferredFranchiseAndDevelopmentFeeCurrent_638660920816926203" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816926203" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_PayablesAndAccrualsAbstract_18B4B948F6FC9BEE9C73AC83E5ACDB12" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent_638660920816926203" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesScheduleOfOtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940601 - Disclosure - OTHER NONCURRENT LIABILITIES - Schedule of Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DeferredFranchiseAndDevelopmentFees" xlink:label="loco_DeferredFranchiseAndDevelopmentFees_638660920816926203" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract_2" xlink:to="loco_DeferredFranchiseAndDevelopmentFees_638660920816926203" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherSundryLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherSundryLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherSundryLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638660920816935928" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesDisclosureAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638660920816935928" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940701 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_C6B61164172E4308EA84AC83E5040B25" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_C6B61164172E4308EA84AC83E5040B25" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable_638660920816935928" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable_638660920816935928" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_638660920816935928" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_638660920816935928" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_638660920816935928" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ChickenMember" xlink:label="loco_ChickenMember_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_638660920816935928" xlink:to="loco_ChickenMember_638660920816935928" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable_638660920816935928" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_638660920816935928" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_638660920816935928" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_638660920816935928" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyLeaseGuaranteeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyLeaseGuaranteeMember_638660920816935928" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_638660920816935928" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyLeaseGuaranteeMember_638660920816935928" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:label="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable_638660920816935928" xlink:to="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_638660920816945939" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:label="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_638660920816945939" xlink:to="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_638660920816945939" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_OfficerMember" xlink:label="srt_OfficerMember_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_638660920816945939" xlink:to="srt_OfficerMember_638660920816945939" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable_638660920816935928" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PurchaseObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_PurchaseObligation_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" xlink:to="us-gaap_PurchaseObligation_638660920816945939" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfLeases" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfLeases_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfLeases_638660920816945939" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LeaseExpirationYear" xlink:label="loco_LeaseExpirationYear_638660920816945939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" xlink:to="loco_LeaseExpirationYear_638660920816945939" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure_638660920816955645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure_638660920816955645" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumNetExposure" xlink:label="loco_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumNetExposure_638660920816955645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" xlink:to="loco_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumNetExposure_638660920816955645" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfEmploymentAgreements" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfEmploymentAgreements_638660920816955645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems_638660920816945939" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfEmploymentAgreements_638660920816955645" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareComputationOfBasicAndDilutedNetIncomePerShareDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940801 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE - Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Income per Share (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_55738C5F911377169199AC04DAA3B56B" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAbstract_638660920816955645" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_55738C5F911377169199AC04DAA3B56B" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAbstract_638660920816955645" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAbstract_638660920816955645" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638660920816966301" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_55738C5F911377169199AC04DAA3B56B" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638660920816966301" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638660920816966301" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638660920816966301" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638660920816966301" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_638660920816966301" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638660920816966301" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_638660920816966301" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareScheduleOfReconciliationOfBasicAndDilutedShareCountsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940802 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE- Schedule of Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Share Counts (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_80478E2C72A75B9DBAE3C0FC3FD8B84C" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638660920816976055" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_80478E2C72A75B9DBAE3C0FC3FD8B84C" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638660920816976055" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_638660920816976055" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_80478E2C72A75B9DBAE3C0FC3FD8B84C" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_638660920816976055" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638660920816976055" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_80478E2C72A75B9DBAE3C0FC3FD8B84C" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638660920816976055" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941001 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_85C1E4035AE6790484FAADC40F48F5A1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_638660920816976055" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_85C1E4035AE6790484FAADC40F48F5A1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_638660920816976055" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis" xlink:label="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_638660920816976055" xlink:to="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/documentation" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain" xlink:label="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_HardwareServicesMember" xlink:label="loco_HardwareServicesMember_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_HardwareServicesMember_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_638660920816976055" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816985939" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920816985939" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816985939" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920816985939" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920816985939" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_638660920816976055" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638660920816985939" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638660920816985939" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseRightsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseRightsMember_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638660920816985939" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseRightsMember_638660920816985939" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsTable_638660920816976055" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfRevenueStreams" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRevenueStreams_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRevenueStreams_638660920816995931" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognizedPeriod" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognizedPeriod_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognizedPeriod_638660920816995931" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition_638660920816995931" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpirationPeriodForInactivity" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpirationPeriodForInactivity_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpirationPeriodForInactivity_638660920816995931" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent_638660920816995931" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod_638660920816995931" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife_638660920816995931" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLifeRenewalPeriod" xlink:label="loco_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLifeRenewalPeriod_638660920816995931" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="loco_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLifeRenewalPeriod_638660920816995931" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation_638660920817005978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation_638660920817005978" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants_638660920817005978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsLineItems_638660920816985939" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants_638660920817005978" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByGeographicMarketDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941002 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS - Revenues Disaggregated by Geographic Market (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_4C3AA64DF20FDB469BA0AC7304DDEF78" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817005978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_4C3AA64DF20FDB469BA0AC7304DDEF78" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817005978" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638660920817005978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817005978" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638660920817005978" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920817005978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638660920817005978" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920817005978" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638660920817005978" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638660920817005978" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638660920817005978" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817005978" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638660920817015960" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638660920817015960" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920817015960" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638660920817015960" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember_638660920817015960" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817005978" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920817015960" order="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920817015960" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817015960" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LosAngelesMember" xlink:label="loco_LosAngelesMember_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817015960" xlink:to="loco_LosAngelesMember_638660920817015960" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OtherThanLosAngeles1Member" xlink:label="loco_OtherThanLosAngeles1Member_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817015960" xlink:to="loco_OtherThanLosAngeles1Member_638660920817015960" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817005978" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817015960" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1_638660920817015960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817015960" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1_638660920817015960" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersChangeInContractLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941003 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS - Change in Contract Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_CEEB5EB79F88E8BBB169B0B356CCC7E5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817025964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_CEEB5EB79F88E8BBB169B0B356CCC7E5" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817025964" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817025964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817025964" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817025964" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817025964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817025964" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817025964" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920817025964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817025964" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920817025964" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817025964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817025964" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817025964" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:label="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817025964" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817025964" xlink:to="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817025964" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817025964" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_638660920817035999" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817025964" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized_638660920817035999" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817025964" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition_638660920817035999" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_6386609208170359991" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817025964" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_6386609208170359991" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941004 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS - Unsatisfied Performance Obligation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_63C96BF9621FAC6C77C3AE6306FD206C" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_63C96BF9621FAC6C77C3AE6306FD206C" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_638660920817035999" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_638660920817035999" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817035999" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817035999" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817035999" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920817035999" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817035999" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember_638660920817035999" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_638660920817035999" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis_638660920817046197" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_638660920817035999" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_638660920817046197" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_638660920817046197" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1_638660920817046197" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_638660920817046197" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation_638660920817046197" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941005 - Disclosure - REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS - Loyalty Reward Liability and Gift Card Liability (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817046197" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817046197" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817046197" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_638660920817046197" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817046197" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920817046197" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817046197" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920817046197" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" xlink:label="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember_638660920817046197" xlink:to="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember_638660920817055965" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_638660920817046197" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember_638660920817055965" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817046197" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis_638660920817055965" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638660920817046197" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817055965" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:label="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817055965" xlink:to="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817055965" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817055965" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_638660920817055965" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817055965" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition_638660920817055965" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" xlink:label="loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817055965" xlink:to="loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability_638660920817055965" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_6386609208170559651" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward_638660920817055965" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_6386609208170559651" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1_638660920817055965" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817055965" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1_638660920817055965" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817055965" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_638660920817065971" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638660920817055965" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized_638660920817065971" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941101 - Disclosure - LEASES (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637312198143832513" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637312198143832513" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817065971" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817065971" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817065971" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseMember_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817065971" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseMember_638660920817065971" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember_638660920817065971" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817065971" xlink:to="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember_638660920817065971" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseModificationsMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseModificationsMember_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817065971" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseModificationsMember_638660920817075954" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_FacilityLeasesMember" xlink:label="loco_FacilityLeasesMember_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817065971" xlink:to="loco_FacilityLeasesMember_638660920817075954" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_638660920817075954" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UnconditionalPurchaseObligationCategoryOfGoodsOrServicesAcquiredDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnconditionalPurchaseObligationCategoryOfGoodsOrServicesAcquiredDomain_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_UnrecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_638660920817075954" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnconditionalPurchaseObligationCategoryOfGoodsOrServicesAcquiredDomain_638660920817075954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseNotYetCommencedMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseNotYetCommencedMember_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_UnconditionalPurchaseObligationCategoryOfGoodsOrServicesAcquiredDomain_638660920817075954" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseNotYetCommencedMember_638660920817075954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingLeaseLeaseNotYetCommencedMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingLeaseLeaseNotYetCommencedMember_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_UnconditionalPurchaseObligationCategoryOfGoodsOrServicesAcquiredDomain_638660920817075954" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingLeaseLeaseNotYetCommencedMember_638660920817075954" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920817075954" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638660920817075954" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817075954" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024/stpr-2024.xsd#stpr_CA" xlink:label="stpr_CA_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638660920817075954" xlink:to="stpr_CA_638660920817075954" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817075954" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817075954" order="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817075954" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920817085946" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920817085946" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920817085946" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817065971" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfLeases" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfLeases_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfLeases_638660920817085946" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfFinanceLeases" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfFinanceLeases_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfFinanceLeases_638660920817085946" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract_638660920817085946" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfResidualValueGuarantee" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfResidualValueGuarantee_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfResidualValueGuarantee_638660920817085946" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseNumberOfRenewalOptions" xlink:label="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseNumberOfRenewalOptions_638660920817085946" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseNumberOfRenewalOptions_638660920817085946" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm_638660920817095930" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm_638660920817095930" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend_638660920817095930" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend_638660920817095930" order="7" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantWithLeaseModification" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantWithLeaseModification_638660920817095930" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantWithLeaseModification_638660920817095930" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_638660920817095930" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_638660920817095930" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsResultingInImpairment" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsResultingInImpairment_638660920817095930" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsResultingInImpairment_638660920817095930" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss_638660920817095930" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817085946" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss_638660920817095930" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLeaseCostDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941102 - Disclosure - LEASES - Lease Cost (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637502132371278393" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817105941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637502132371278393" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817105941" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817105941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817105941" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817105941" order="1" use="optional" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817105941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817105941" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817105941" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseMember_638660920817105941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817105941" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseMember_638660920817105941" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember_638660920817105941" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817105941" xlink:to="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember_638660920817105941" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817105941" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_638660920817115642" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpenseMember_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpenseMember_638660920817115642" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember_638660920817115642" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_DepreciationAndAmortizationsMember" xlink:label="loco_DepreciationAndAmortizationsMember_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" xlink:to="loco_DepreciationAndAmortizationsMember_638660920817115642" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember_638660920817115642" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringChargesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringChargesMember_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringChargesMember_638660920817115642" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817105941" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization_638660920817115642" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization_638660920817115642" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense_638660920817125956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense_638660920817125956" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost_638660920817125956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost_638660920817125956" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost_638660920817125956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost_638660920817125956" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost_638660920817125956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost_638660920817125956" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubleaseIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome_638660920817125956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome_638660920817125956" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCost_638660920817125956" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817115642" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCost_638660920817125956" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesCashAndNonCashLeaseActivitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941103 - Disclosure - LEASES - Cash and Non-cash Lease Activities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637502140559699862" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637502140559699862" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817135936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817135936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817135936" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseMember_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817135936" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseMember_638660920817135936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638660920817135936" xlink:to="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember_638660920817135936" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments_638660920817135936" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638660920817135936" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_638660920817135936" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForFinanceLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForFinanceLeaseLiability_638660920817135936" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForFinanceLeaseLiability_638660920817135936" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_RightOfUseAssetDeRecognitionTerminationImpairmentOrModifications" xlink:label="loco_RightOfUseAssetDeRecognitionTerminationImpairmentOrModifications_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="loco_RightOfUseAssetDeRecognitionTerminationImpairmentOrModifications_638660920817146004" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638660920817146004" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638660920817146004" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638660920817146004" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817135936" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638660920817146004" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesMinimumFutureLeaseObligationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941104 - Disclosure - LEASES - Minimum Future Lease Obligations (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637312183830969428" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_637312183830969428" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817146004" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817146004" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817146004" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817146004" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817146004" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920817155942" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920817155942" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638660920817155942" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920817155942" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920817155942" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817146004" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817155942" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638660920817155942" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638660920817155942" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638660920817155942" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638660920817155942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638660920817155942" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638660920817166050" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" xlink:label="loco_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="loco_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638660920817166050" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638660920817166050" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638660920817166050" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability_638660920817166050" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920817166050" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920817166050" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817155942" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638660920817175960" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638660920817175960" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638660920817175960" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638660920817175960" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638660920817175960" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" xlink:label="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638660920817175960" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638660920817175960" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638660920817175960" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638660920817175960" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_638660920817185958" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_638660920817185958" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920817185958" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638660920817185958" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920817185958" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638660920817166050" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638660920817185958" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817155942" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638660920817185958" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638660920817185958" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsNextTwelveMonths_638660920817185958" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsNextTwelveMonths_638660920817185958" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinTwoYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinTwoYears_638660920817195942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinTwoYears_638660920817195942" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinThreeYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinThreeYears_638660920817195942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinThreeYears_638660920817195942" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFourYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFourYears_638660920817195942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFourYears_638660920817195942" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAfterYearFour" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAfterYearFour_638660920817195942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAfterYearFour_638660920817195942" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseMinimumSubleaseIncome" xlink:label="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseMinimumSubleaseIncome_638660920817195942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsAbstract_638660920817185958" xlink:to="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseMinimumSubleaseIncome_638660920817195942" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_LesseeImputedInterestRate" xlink:label="loco_LesseeImputedInterestRate_638660920817195942" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817155942" xlink:to="loco_LesseeImputedInterestRate_638660920817195942" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLessorDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941105 - Disclosure - LEASES - Lessor (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817205993" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817205993" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817205993" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817205993" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817205993" order="1" use="optional" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638660920817205993" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638660920817205993" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638660920817205993" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638660920817205993" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920817205993" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638660920817205993" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638660920817205993" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638660920817205993" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638660920817205993" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseTermOfContract_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseTermOfContract_638660920817215649" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend_638660920817215649" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate_638660920817215649" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfLesseeOptionToPurchaseUnderlyingAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfLesseeOptionToPurchaseUnderlyingAsset_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseExistenceOfLesseeOptionToPurchaseUnderlyingAsset_638660920817215649" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseIncome_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseIncome_638660920817215649" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseIncomeComprehensiveIncomeExtensibleList" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseIncomeComprehensiveIncomeExtensibleList_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638660920817205993" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseIncomeComprehensiveIncomeExtensibleList_638660920817215649" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureShareholderRightsAgreementDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941201 - Disclosure - SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS AGREEMENT (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable_638660920817215649" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loco_ShareholderRightsAgreementDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable_638660920817215649" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable_638660920817215649" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis_638660920817225963" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightAxis_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain_638660920817225963" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PreferredSharePurchaseRightsMember" xlink:label="loco_PreferredSharePurchaseRightsMember_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightDomain_638660920817225963" xlink:to="loco_PreferredSharePurchaseRightsMember_638660920817225963" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable_638660920817215649" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_638660920817225963" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920817225963" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeriesAPreferredStockMember_638660920817225963" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightTable_638660920817215649" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_RightsAgreementDividendsPerCommonStock" xlink:label="loco_RightsAgreementDividendsPerCommonStock_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="loco_RightsAgreementDividendsPerCommonStock_638660920817225963" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920817225963" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EquityOwnershipPercentageExcludingConsolidatedEntityAndEquityMethodInvestee" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityOwnershipPercentageExcludingConsolidatedEntityAndEquityMethodInvestee_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityOwnershipPercentageExcludingConsolidatedEntityAndEquityMethodInvestee_638660920817225963" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_RightsExercisableForCommonStockExercisePriceMultiplier" xlink:label="loco_RightsExercisableForCommonStockExercisePriceMultiplier_638660920817225963" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="loco_RightsExercisableForCommonStockExercisePriceMultiplier_638660920817225963" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRightExchangeRatio" xlink:label="loco_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRightExchangeRatio_638660920817235918" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="loco_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRightExchangeRatio_638660920817235918" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_PercentageOfConsolidatedAssetsEarningPowerSaleConsideredForFlipOverEvent" xlink:label="loco_PercentageOfConsolidatedAssetsEarningPowerSaleConsideredForFlipOverEvent_638660920817235918" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="loco_PercentageOfConsolidatedAssetsEarningPowerSaleConsideredForFlipOverEvent_638660920817235918" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20240925.xsd#loco_RightsRedemptionPrice" xlink:label="loco_RightsRedemptionPrice_638660920817235918" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="loco_RightsRedemptionPrice_638660920817235918" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight_638660920817235918" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight_638660920817235918" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharePrice_638660920817235918" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharePrice_638660920817235918" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920817235918" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightLineItems_638660920817225963" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638660920817235918" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/role/InsiderTradingArrangements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995445 - Disclosure - Insider Trading Arrangements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
</link:linkbase>
