El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco El Pollo Loco in Vista, CA is a Mexican and chicken restaurant that offers authentic, fire-grilled whole chickens marinated in a special recipe of herbs, spices, fruit juices and garlic. Their dedication to fresh, flavorful food extends to their handmade guacamole, salsas and dressings. With a commitment to great taste that keeps customers returning for more, El Pollo Loco also offers catering services. Located on S Melrose Drive.

Recent social media posts

06/23/2026

Why editing is so important... 🫪

new loaded quesadillas coming 6.25 (available tomorrow with early access through Loco Rewards 🤫)
06/22/2026

new loaded quesadillas coming 6.25

(available tomorrow with early access through Loco Rewards 🤫)

06/18/2026

tomorrow…

06/17/2026

It’s a sign 🄹

06/17/2026

WE ARE SO BACK 🫘

BBQ Black Beans WILL RETURN June 25th!! šŸ”„

06/16/2026

SIGN UP to get EARLY ACCESS to our NEW Street Corn and Queso Loaded Quesadillas through the Loco Rewards App 6/23-6/24.

Available everywhere 6/25 ā¤ļøā€šŸ”„

06/11/2026

there we go 😌

WORLD CUP GIVEAWAY āš½ļøŽThe world’s most-watched sports event means a Pollo watch party! Enter the Loco Cup for your chance...
06/10/2026

WORLD CUP GIVEAWAY āš½ļøŽ
The world’s most-watched sports event means a Pollo watch party! Enter the Loco Cup for your chance to win a $200 El Pollo Loco e-gift card for the ideal World Cup watch party spread šŸ†
Ā 
Here’s how to enter:
⚽ Follow
⚽ Like this post
⚽ Comment with your guess of each team’s TOTAL SHOTS (not just shots on target) for the USA vs. Paraguay soccer match scheduled for June 12, 2026, and
⚽ Share the post to your Stories 
Ā 
We’llĀ be randomly selecting the winner to receive a $200Ā e-gift card for El Pollo Loco.
Ā 

Let’s goooooo!Ā  Ā 
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Your Instagram profile must be public. SweepstakesĀ endsĀ onĀ Friday, June 12, 2026, atĀ 4Ā PM PT. Void where prohibited. No purchaseĀ necessary. Winners will be contacted via DM from the verifiedĀ Ā Instagram Account. See full terms in the link in our bio.

send this to your bff šŸ¤—
06/08/2026

send this to your bff šŸ¤—

Show your support by voting for El Pollo Loco as Best Restaurant for Quick, Healthy Food for the USA Today 10Best  Reade...
06/08/2026

Show your support by voting for El Pollo Loco as Best Restaurant for Quick, Healthy Food for the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards! All it takes is ONE CLICK.

Every vote helps! Let's show them why our Loco Family is the best!

Vote here šŸ‘‰ 10best.usatoday.com/awards/el-pollo-loco/

Address

495 S Melrose Drive
Vista, CA
92081

Directions to S Melrose Drive in Vista can be reached via public transport by taking the bus heading towards Vista Transit Center and getting off at the S Melrose Dr & Vista Village Dr stop. From there, walk south for approximately 5 minutes until you reach the destination.

If driving, take the S Melrose Drive exit off of CA-78 and head north. The destination is on the right-hand side. Parking is available in the lot in front of the building.

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 10pm
Tuesday 10am - 10pm
Wednesday 10am - 10pm
Thursday 10am - 10pm
Friday 10am - 10pm
Saturday 10am - 10pm
Sunday 10am - 10pm

Telephone

(760) 643-0600

Alerts

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What people say

Mexican restaurants are known for their bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and vibrant atmosphere. El Pollo Loco on S Melrose Drive in Vista, CA is no exception. This Mexican restaurant offers a unique twist by specializing in fire-grilled chicken that is marinated in a special recipe of herbs, spices, fruit juices, and garlic. The result is tender and juicy chicken that is bursting with flavor.

The menu at El Pollo Loco features a variety of Mexican entrees that are made with the same dedication and care as their signature chicken. From tacos to burritos to bowls, there is something for everyone. And let's not forget about their handmade guacamole, salsas, and dressings that perfectly complement each dish.

What sets El Pollo Loco apart from other Mexican restaurants is their commitment to using real food cooked over real fire. This authentic cooking method results in great taste that will keep you coming back again and again.

Overall, El Pollo Loco on S Melrose Drive in Vista, CA is a must-visit for anyone who loves fresh and flavorful Mexican cuisine. Their fire-grilled chicken and handmade sides are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

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