<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  9.6.8042.36810 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 3/11/2022 7:32:41 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 3/11/2022 7:32:41 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" 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-20211229.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfIncome" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfIncome" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInStockholdersEquity" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInStockholdersEquity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureDescriptionOfBusinessAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureDescriptionOfBusinessAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPropertyAndEquipmentOwnedNetDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPropertyAndEquipmentOwnedNetDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueMeasurementsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueMeasurementsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentScheduleOfCostsAndRelatedAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationOfMajorClassesOfPropertyDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentScheduleOfCostsAndRelatedAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationOfMajorClassesOfPropertyDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureTrademarksOtherIntangibleAssetsAndLiabilitiesScheduleOfDomesticTrademarksDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureTrademarksOtherIntangibleAssetsAndLiabilitiesScheduleOfDomesticTrademarksDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureLeasesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureLeasesLeaseCostDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLeaseCostDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureLeasesCashAndNonCashLeaseActivitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesCashAndNonCashLeaseActivitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureLeasesMinimumFutureLeaseObligationsDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesMinimumFutureLeaseObligationsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureLeasesLessorDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLessorDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesScheduleOfNetDeferredTaxAssetClassificationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesScheduleOfNetDeferredTaxAssetClassificationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareNarrativeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByRevenueSourceAndMarketDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByRevenueSourceAndMarketDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByGeographicMarketDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByGeographicMarketDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersChangeInContractLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersChangeInContractLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDefaultDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDefaultDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDefaultDetails" roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDefaultDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://www.esma.europa.eu/xbrl/esef/arcrole/wider-narrower" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/arcrole/esma-arcrole-2018-11-21.xsd#wider-narrower" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:type="simple" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-roles-2021-01-31.xsd#eedm" roleURI="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="Extensible Enumeration Domain Members" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStandardAndCustomAxisDomainDefaults" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99900 - Disclosure - Standard And Custom Axis Domain Defaults">
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_1 To srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_1 To us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_1 To us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAxis" xlink:label="srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionDomain" xlink:label="srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAxis_1 To srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis_1 To us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_1 To us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_1 To srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_1 To us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis_1 To us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis_1 To us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis_1 To us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis_1 To us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_1 To us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1 To us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis_1 To us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis_1 To us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis_1 To us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_RangeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_1" xlink:title="srt_RangeMember_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_RangeAxis_1 To srt_RangeMember_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis_1 To us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis_1 To us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis_1 To us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_1 To us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:label="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:label="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis_1 To srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_1 To us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_1 To us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeAxis_1 To us-gaap_ShortTermDebtTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_LitigationCaseAxis_1 To srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis_1 To us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis_1 To us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis_1 To us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_OwnershipAxis_1 To srt_OwnershipDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis" xlink:label="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_1" xlink:title="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain" xlink:label="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_1" xlink:title="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_1" xlink:to="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis_1 To loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_1 To us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis_1 To us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis_1 To us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_PlanNameAxis_1 To us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_1 To us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis_1 To us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" xlink:title="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis_1 To us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain_1" order="1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:title="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" />
    <link:loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" xlink:title="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" />
    <link:definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" use="optional" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:title="definition:srt_StatementScenarioAxis_1 To srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_1" order="1" />
  </link:definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfIncome" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00200 - Statement - Consolidated Statements of Income" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostDirectMaterial" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostDirectMaterial" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostDirectMaterial" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostDirectLabor" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostDirectLabor" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostDirectLabor" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_CompanyRestaurantExpenses" xlink:label="loco_CompanyRestaurantExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="loco_CompanyRestaurantExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfOtherAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RecoveryOfSecuritiesClassActionLegalCost" xlink:label="loco_RecoveryOfSecuritiesClassActionLegalCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="loco_RecoveryOfSecuritiesClassActionLegalCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringCostsAndAssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringCostsAndAssetImpairmentCharges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringCostsAndAssetImpairmentCharges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSoldAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" xlink:label="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInStockholdersEquity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00400 - Statement - Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:label="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationInPeriodValue" xlink:to="loco_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedAndExpirationsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValueAcquiredCostMethod" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="31503 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" xlink:label="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndLiabilityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndLiabilityTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndLiabilityTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTableTextBlock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTableTextBlock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureDescriptionOfBusinessAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40101 - Disclosure - Description of Business - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ChickenAcquisitionCorpMember" xlink:label="loco_ChickenAcquisitionCorpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="loco_ChickenAcquisitionCorpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LosAngelesMember" xlink:label="loco_LosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_LosAngelesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2021/country-2021.xsd#country_PH" xlink:label="country_PH" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="country_PH" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40201 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EntityOperatedUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FranchisorDisclosureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchisedUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ClosedStoresMember" xlink:label="loco_ClosedStoresMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="loco_ClosedStoresMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2021/stpr-2021.xsd#stpr_TX" xlink:label="stpr_TX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="stpr_TX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2021/stpr-2021.xsd#stpr_CA" xlink:label="stpr_CA" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="stpr_CA" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LosAngelesMember" xlink:label="loco_LosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_LosAngelesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SacramentoAreaMember" xlink:label="loco_SacramentoAreaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_SacramentoAreaMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SanFranciscoMember" xlink:label="loco_SanFranciscoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_SanFranciscoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PhoenixMember" xlink:label="loco_PhoenixMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_PhoenixMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis" xlink:label="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain" xlink:label="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeAxis" xlink:to="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_HardwareServicesMember" xlink:label="loco_HardwareServicesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="loco_PerformanceObligationTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_HardwareServicesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RestaurantSalesMember" xlink:label="loco_RestaurantSalesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_RestaurantSalesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="7" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SupplierConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplierConcentrationRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplierConcentrationRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="8" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionBySupplierAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SupplierOneMember" xlink:label="loco_SupplierOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" xlink:to="loco_SupplierOneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SupplierTwoMember" xlink:label="loco_SupplierTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" xlink:to="loco_SupplierTwoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LargestSupplierOneMember" xlink:label="loco_LargestSupplierOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedGoodsAndNonemployeeServicesTransactionSupplierDomain" xlink:to="loco_LargestSupplierOneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="9" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PurchasedMember" xlink:label="loco_PurchasedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="loco_PurchasedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="10" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ClosedOrSubleasedRestaurantLocationsMember" xlink:label="loco_ClosedOrSubleasedRestaurantLocationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_ClosedOrSubleasedRestaurantLocationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="11" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FranchiseDevelopmentInitialOptionAgreementMember" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseDevelopmentInitialOptionAgreementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseDevelopmentInitialOptionAgreementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FranchiseDevelopmentAdditionalOptionAgreementMember" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseDevelopmentAdditionalOptionAgreementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseDevelopmentAdditionalOptionAgreementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FranchiseDevelopmentAgreementMember" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseDevelopmentAgreementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseDevelopmentAgreementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="12" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="13" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="14" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="15" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseRightsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseRightsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseRightsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:label="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsWithCarryingValueOfRouAssetsWithImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsWithCarryingValueOfRouAssetsWithImpairmentCharges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsWithCarryingValueOfRouAssetsWithImpairmentCharges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeExpensesLeavesOfAbsenceAndOvertimeCovid19" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeExpensesLeavesOfAbsenceAndOvertimeCovid19" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeExpensesLeavesOfAbsenceAndOvertimeCovid19" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCovid19" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCovid19" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCovid19" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForOtherCreditLosses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForOtherCreditLosses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForOtherCreditLosses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainOnBusinessInterruptionInsuranceRecovery" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSoldToThirdParty" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSoldToThirdParty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSoldToThirdParty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantSales" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantSales" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantSales" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfSuppliers" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfSuppliers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfSuppliers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PropertyEquipmentAndCertainRouAssetsImpairment" xlink:label="loco_PropertyEquipmentAndCertainRouAssetsImpairment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PropertyEquipmentAndCertainRouAssetsImpairment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantClosed" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantClosed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantClosed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTaxReceivableAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTaxReceivableAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" xlink:label="loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" xlink:label="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementIncomeExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_MinimumAlternateTaxReceivableCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_MinimumAlternateTaxReceivableCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_MinimumAlternateTaxReceivableCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByCurrentFiscalYearCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByCurrentFiscalYearCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByCurrentFiscalYearCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByNextFiscalYearCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByNextFiscalYearCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByNextFiscalYearCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditPercentageOfQualifiedWagesPaidForRefundablePayrollTaxCreditCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditPercentageOfQualifiedWagesPaidForRefundablePayrollTaxCreditCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="32" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditPercentageOfQualifiedWagesPaidForRefundablePayrollTaxCreditCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="33" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionTaxCredit" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionTaxCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="34" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionTaxCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfFranchisee" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfFranchisee" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="35" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfFranchisee" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_AbandonedSiteAndOtherSiteSelectionCost" xlink:label="loco_AbandonedSiteAndOtherSiteSelectionCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="36" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_AbandonedSiteAndOtherSiteSelectionCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_CapitalizedInternalWages" xlink:label="loco_CapitalizedInternalWages" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="37" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_CapitalizedInternalWages" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="38" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="39" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PromotionalAllowancesForRestaurantAndFranchiseRevenue" xlink:label="loco_PromotionalAllowancesForRestaurantAndFranchiseRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="40" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PromotionalAllowancesForRestaurantAndFranchiseRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramPointsNeededForOneReward" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramPointsNeededForOneReward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="41" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramPointsNeededForOneReward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramAwardEarned" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramAwardEarned" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="42" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramAwardEarned" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpirationPeriodForInactivity" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpirationPeriodForInactivity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="43" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpirationPeriodForInactivity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramUnusedRewardExpirationPeriod" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramUnusedRewardExpirationPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="44" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramUnusedRewardExpirationPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="45" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="46" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="47" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="48" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="49" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLifeRenewalPeriod" xlink:label="loco_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLifeRenewalPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="50" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLifeRenewalPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="51" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_AdvertisingFeeFromAffiliates" xlink:label="loco_AdvertisingFeeFromAffiliates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="52" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_AdvertisingFeeFromAffiliates" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FranchiseFeePercentage" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseFeePercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="53" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseFeePercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="54" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="55" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="56" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedAdvertisingCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreOpeningCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreOpeningCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="57" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreOpeningCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="58" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RecoveryOfSecuritiesClassActionLegalCost" xlink:label="loco_RecoveryOfSecuritiesClassActionLegalCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="59" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_RecoveryOfSecuritiesClassActionLegalCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TaxReceivableAgreementExpectedPayments" xlink:label="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementExpectedPayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="60" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_TaxReceivableAgreementExpectedPayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="61" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfCommitmentToOpenFranchisedRestaurants" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfCommitmentToOpenFranchisedRestaurants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="62" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfCommitmentToOpenFranchisedRestaurants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TermAvailableUnderPlanToDevelopAndOpenRestaurants" xlink:label="loco_TermAvailableUnderPlanToDevelopAndOpenRestaurants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="63" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_TermAvailableUnderPlanToDevelopAndOpenRestaurants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="64" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_AgreementTerminationPeriod" xlink:label="loco_AgreementTerminationPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="65" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="loco_AgreementTerminationPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="66" xlink:from="loco_BasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPropertyAndEquipmentOwnedNetDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40202 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment Owned, Net (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LandImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LandImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LandImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RestaurantEquipmentMember" xlink:label="loco_RestaurantEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_RestaurantEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OtherEquipmentMember" xlink:label="loco_OtherEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_OtherEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueMeasurementsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40203 - Disclosure - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RightofUseAssetsNet" xlink:label="loco_RightofUseAssetsNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="loco_RightofUseAssetsNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ImpairmentofRightofUseAssets" xlink:label="loco_ImpairmentofRightofUseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:to="loco_ImpairmentofRightofUseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentScheduleOfCostsAndRelatedAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationOfMajorClassesOfPropertyDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40301 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LandMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LandMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherTypesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherTypesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentOtherTypesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureTrademarksOtherIntangibleAssetsAndLiabilitiesScheduleOfDomesticTrademarksDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40401 - Disclosure - Trademarks, Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities - Schedule of Domestic Trademarks (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TrademarksMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TrademarksMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TrademarksMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsGrossExcludingGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsGrossExcludingGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsGrossExcludingGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_AccumulatedImpairmentLossesIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="loco_AccumulatedImpairmentLossesIntangibleAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassLineItems" xlink:to="loco_AccumulatedImpairmentLossesIntangibleAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40501 - Disclosure - Leases (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LeaseNotYetCommencedMember" xlink:label="loco_LeaseNotYetCommencedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_LeaseNotYetCommencedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseModificationsMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseModificationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseModificationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2021/stpr-2021.xsd#stpr_TX" xlink:label="stpr_TX" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="stpr_TX" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2021/stpr-2021.xsd#stpr_CA" xlink:label="stpr_CA" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="stpr_CA" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfLeases" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfLeases" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfLeases" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfFinanceLeases" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfFinanceLeases" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfFinanceLeases" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseNumberOfRenewalOptions" xlink:label="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseNumberOfRenewalOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseNumberOfRenewalOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantWithLeaseModification" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantWithLeaseModification" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantWithLeaseModification" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsResultingInImpairment" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsResultingInImpairment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsResultingInImpairment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseImpairmentLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ImpairmentofRightofUseAssets" xlink:label="loco_ImpairmentofRightofUseAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_ImpairmentofRightofUseAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantsSold" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRestaurantClosed" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRestaurantClosed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRestaurantClosed" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLeaseCostDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40502 - Disclosure - Leases - Lease Cost (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpenseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DepreciationAndAmortizationsMember" xlink:label="loco_DepreciationAndAmortizationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="loco_DepreciationAndAmortizationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringChargesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringChargesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringChargesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubleaseIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCost" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCost" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesCashAndNonCashLeaseActivitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40503 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PropertyLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_PropertyLeaseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_PropertyLeaseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" xlink:label="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_EquipmentLeaseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForFinanceLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForFinanceLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForFinanceLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RightOfUseAssetDeRecognitionTerminationImpairmentOrModifications" xlink:label="loco_RightOfUseAssetDeRecognitionTerminationImpairmentOrModifications" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_RightOfUseAssetDeRecognitionTerminationImpairmentOrModifications" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesMinimumFutureLeaseObligationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40504 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFive" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFive" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFive" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFive" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFive" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsNextTwelveMonths" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsNextTwelveMonths" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinTwoYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinTwoYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinTwoYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinThreeYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinThreeYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinThreeYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFourYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFourYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFourYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFiveYears" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFiveYears" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalWithinFiveYears" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsThereafter" xlink:label="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsThereafter" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentalsThereafter" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseMinimumSubleaseIncome" xlink:label="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseMinimumSubleaseIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="30" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LesseeOperatingLeaseMinimumSubleaseIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LesseeImputedInterestRate" xlink:label="loco_LesseeImputedInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="31" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LesseeImputedInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLessorDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40505 - Disclosure - Leases - Lessor (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LessorOperatingLeaseTermOfContract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseIncome" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LessorLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLeaseIncome" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40601 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_HedgedDebtInstrumentMember" xlink:label="loco_HedgedDebtInstrumentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_HedgedDebtInstrumentMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_LetterOfCreditMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SwingLineLoansMember" xlink:label="loco_SwingLineLoansMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:to="loco_SwingLineLoansMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandEighteenMember" xlink:label="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandEighteenMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandEighteenMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_CreditAgreementsTwoThousandEighteenAndTwoThousandFourteenMember" xlink:label="loco_CreditAgreementsTwoThousandEighteenAndTwoThousandFourteenMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_CreditAgreementsTwoThousandEighteenAndTwoThousandFourteenMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandFourteenMember" xlink:label="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandFourteenMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_CreditAgreementTwoThousandFourteenMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FederalFundsEffectiveSwapRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FederalFundsEffectiveSwapRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FederalFundsEffectiveSwapRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BaseRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BaseRateMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BaseRateMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermLineOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentPrincipal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentPrincipal" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentPeriodicPaymentPrincipal" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedWithinTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedWithinTwelveMonths" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedWithinTwelveMonths" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRepurchaseOrRedemptionOfQualifiedEntityInterest" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRepurchaseOrRedemptionOfQualifiedEntityInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRepurchaseOrRedemptionOfQualifiedEntityInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRedemptionRepurchaseAcquiredEquityInterests" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRedemptionRepurchaseAcquiredEquityInterests" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualRedemptionRepurchaseAcquiredEquityInterests" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForStockOptionPlanEmploymentAgreementsAndIncentivePlans" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForStockOptionPlanEmploymentAgreementsAndIncentivePlans" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForStockOptionPlanEmploymentAgreementsAndIncentivePlans" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForOtherRestrictedPayments" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForOtherRestrictedPayments" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenantsMaximumAnnualPaymentForOtherRestrictedPayments" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescriptionMaximumLeverageRatio" xlink:label="loco_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescriptionMaximumLeverageRatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="loco_DebtInstrumentCovenantDescriptionMaximumLeverageRatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeAssetNotionalAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetNotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetNotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40903 - Disclosure - Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2021/stpr-2021.xsd#stpr_CA" xlink:label="stpr_CA" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="stpr_CA" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EnterpriseZoneMember" xlink:label="loco_EnterpriseZoneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_EnterpriseZoneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxNoteTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" xlink:label="loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PercentageOfOperatingLossCarryforwardsTaxSavingsPayableToPreInitialPublicOfferingStockholders" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTaxReceivableAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTaxReceivableAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_MinimumAlternateTaxReceivableCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_MinimumAlternateTaxReceivableCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_MinimumAlternateTaxReceivableCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PaymentRelatedToTaxReceivableAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwards" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwards" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwards" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxCreditCarryforwardAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAccrued" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAccrued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAccrued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PaymentToStockholdersUnderTaxReceivableAgreement" xlink:label="loco_PaymentToStockholdersUnderTaxReceivableAgreement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_PaymentToStockholdersUnderTaxReceivableAgreement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByCurrentFiscalYearCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByCurrentFiscalYearCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByCurrentFiscalYearCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByNextFiscalYearCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByNextFiscalYearCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_SocialSecurityTaxEmployerDeferralPercentageDueByNextFiscalYearCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditPercentageOfQualifiedWagesPaidForRefundablePayrollTaxCreditCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditPercentageOfQualifiedWagesPaidForRefundablePayrollTaxCreditCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditPercentageOfQualifiedWagesPaidForRefundablePayrollTaxCreditCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCaresAct" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCaresAct" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionCreditCaresAct" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_EmployeeRetentionTaxCredit" xlink:label="loco_EmployeeRetentionTaxCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_InvestmentsOwnedFederalIncomeTaxNoteLineItems" xlink:to="loco_EmployeeRetentionTaxCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesScheduleOfNetDeferredTaxAssetClassificationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40905 - Disclosure - Income Taxes - Schedule of Net Deferred Tax Asset Classification (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_IncomeTaxDisclosureTable" xlink:label="loco_IncomeTaxDisclosureTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="loco_IncomeTaxDisclosureTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_IncomeTaxLineItems" xlink:label="loco_IncomeTaxLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="loco_IncomeTaxLineItems" xlink:to="loco_IncomeTaxDisclosureTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="loco_IncomeTaxLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="loco_IncomeTaxLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="loco_IncomeTaxLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41001 - Disclosure - Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_Scenario1Member" xlink:label="loco_Scenario1Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="loco_Scenario1Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_Scenario2Member" xlink:label="loco_Scenario2Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="loco_Scenario2Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureStockBasedCompensationAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41101 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_PremiumOptionsMember" xlink:label="loco_PremiumOptionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_PremiumOptionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ExercisePriceTwoMember" xlink:label="loco_ExercisePriceTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeDomain" xlink:to="loco_ExercisePriceTwoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedPaymentArrangementNonemployeeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedPaymentArrangementNonemployeeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedPaymentArrangementNonemployeeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedPaymentArrangementEmployeeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedPaymentArrangementEmployeeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedPaymentArrangementEmployeeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OmnibusEquityIncentivePlan2018Member" xlink:label="loco_OmnibusEquityIncentivePlan2018Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_OmnibusEquityIncentivePlan2018Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockOptionPlanExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockOptionPlanExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockOptionPlanExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedNumberOfShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedNumberOfShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedNumberOfShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsNonvestedNumberOfShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsNonvestedNumberOfShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsNonvestedNumberOfShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41203 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share - Narrative (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_StockRepurchasePlan2018Member" xlink:label="loco_StockRepurchasePlan2018Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:to="loco_StockRepurchasePlan2018Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_StockRepurchasePlan2019Member" xlink:label="loco_StockRepurchasePlan2019Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:to="loco_StockRepurchasePlan2019Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockSharesAcquired" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41301 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:label="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseAxis" xlink:to="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_JaniceP.HandlersBrymanandMichaelD.Brymanv.ElPolloLocoIncMember" xlink:label="loco_JaniceP.HandlersBrymanandMichaelD.Brymanv.ElPolloLocoIncMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_JaniceP.HandlersBrymanandMichaelD.Brymanv.ElPolloLocoIncMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_DiepActionMember" xlink:label="loco_DiepActionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_LitigationCaseTypeDomain" xlink:to="loco_DiepActionMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentByCategoryOfItemPurchasedAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ChickenMember" xlink:label="loco_ChickenMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermPurchaseCommitmentCategoryOfItemPurchasedDomain" xlink:to="loco_ChickenMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsByNatureAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyLeaseGuaranteeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyLeaseGuaranteeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsNatureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyLeaseGuaranteeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:label="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" xlink:to="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:label="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:to="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_OfficerMember" xlink:label="srt_OfficerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:to="srt_OfficerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyAccrualAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyAccrualAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyAccrualAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LitigationSettlementAmountAwardedToOtherParty" xlink:label="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementAmountAwardedToOtherParty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementAmountAwardedToOtherParty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PurchaseObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_PurchaseObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PurchaseObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfLeases" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfLeases" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfLeases" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LeaseExpirationYear" xlink:label="loco_LeaseExpirationYear" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LeaseExpirationYear" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumNetExposure" xlink:label="loco_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumNetExposure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="loco_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumNetExposure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfEmploymentAgreements" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfEmploymentAgreements" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfEmploymentAgreements" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LossContingencyAccrualReductionDueToPaymentByAffiliates" xlink:label="loco_LossContingencyAccrualReductionDueToPaymentByAffiliates" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LossContingencyAccrualReductionDueToPaymentByAffiliates" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRelatedPartyTransactionsAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41401 - Disclosure - Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TrimaranPolloPartnersLLCMember" xlink:label="loco_TrimaranPolloPartnersLLCMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="loco_TrimaranPolloPartnersLLCMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="loco_TrimaranPolloPartnersLLCMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByNoncontrollingOwners" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByNoncontrollingOwners" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByNoncontrollingOwners" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageMinimumToRemoveDirectorFromBoard" xlink:label="loco_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageMinimumToRemoveDirectorFromBoard" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageMinimumToRemoveDirectorFromBoard" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageMinimumToCallSpecialMeeting" xlink:label="loco_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageMinimumToCallSpecialMeeting" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageMinimumToCallSpecialMeeting" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41501 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_RestaurantSaleMember" xlink:label="loco_RestaurantSaleMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="loco_RestaurantSaleMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupDisposedOfBySaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupDisposedOfBySaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupDisposedOfBySaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_SacramentoAreaMember" xlink:label="loco_SacramentoAreaMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_SacramentoAreaMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_NumberOfRevenueStreams" xlink:label="loco_NumberOfRevenueStreams" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_NumberOfRevenueStreams" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_AccruedLoyaltyRewardsProgramLiabilityCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardsProgramExpectedLoyaltyPointsRedemptionPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfRestaurants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueInitialApplicationPeriodCumulativeEffectTransitionLineItems" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByRevenueSourceAndMarketDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41502 - Disclosure - Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Revenues Disaggregated by Revenue Source and Market (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" xlink:label="loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="loco_FranchiseAdvertisingFeeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CoreMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CoreMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CoreMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonCoreMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonCoreMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CoreAndNonCoreStatusDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonCoreMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersRevenuesDisaggregatedByGeographicMarketDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41503 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LosAngelesMember" xlink:label="loco_LosAngelesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_LosAngelesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_OtherThanLosAngeles1Member" xlink:label="loco_OtherThanLosAngeles1Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:to="loco_OtherThanLosAngeles1Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersChangeInContractLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41504 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" xlink:label="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:label="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAdditionRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAdditionRevenueRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAdditionRevenueRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41505 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersUnsatisfiedPerformanceObligationDefaultDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41505 - Disclosure - Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Unsatisfied Performance Obligation Default (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FranchiseMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FranchiseMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41506 - 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/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" xlink:label="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:label="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" xlink:label="loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.elpolloloco.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersLoyaltyRewardLiabilityAndGiftCardLiabilityDefaultDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41506 - Disclosure - Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Loyalty Reward Liability and Gift Card Liability Default (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2021/elts/srt-2021-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" xlink:label="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_LoyaltyRewardProgramMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" xlink:label="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ServiceMember" xlink:to="loco_GiftCardLiabilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:label="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" xlink:label="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityNewContractAddition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="loco-20211229.xsd#loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" xlink:label="loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="loco_ChangeinContractwithCustomerLiabilityRollForward" xlink:to="loco_TotalRevenueRecognizedFromBothBeginningBalanceAndCurrentPeriodIncreaseInContractLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2021/elts/us-gaap-2021-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>
