Have you heard of the secret menu at El Pollo Loco? This fast food chicken restaurant actually has a whole separate menu that isn’t listed on their boards or posters in-store.
The El Pollo Loco secret menu contains unique items and combinations that you won’t find anywhere else. This unofficial menu features one-of-a-kind tacos, burritos, bowls, and more made with the chain’s signature fire-grilled chicken.
In this article, we’ll reveal everything you need to know about the El Pollo Loco secret menu, including how to order from it, the most popular secret items, and some secret menu hacks to customize your order.
Whether you’re a longtime El Pollo Loco fan or have never tried it, the secret menu opens up a whole new world of flavors and possibilities.
Read on to learn all about this hidden gem menu from the famous grilled chicken chain!
What is a Secret Menu?
Let’s first define a secret menu before getting into the intricacies of El Pollo Loco’s hidden treasures. Officially kept off the main menu, secret menus are unofficial compilations of things that are only accessible to “in the know.”
These are frequently one-of-a-kind creations, inventive takes on classic recipes, or completely original products that appeal to palates with daring tastes. It’s not unlike El Pollo Loco’s secret menu.
El Pollo Loco Secret Menu Items are here:
Fish Tacos
For a while, Fish Tacos were kind of an El Pollo Loco myth. They were not on the regular menu or the secret menu.
The reason was that not all El Pollo Loco restaurants had started making them yet, even though they were being produced.
Now, Fish Tacos are available at every El Pollo Loco. Some places put them on the menu, but others don’t. Either way, you just have to ask for them.
These tacos are a good, healthy twist on the classic chicken taco. Fish is supposed to be good for us to eat more of, so now is a great time to try it!
Smokey Mountain Black Bean Burrito
Try El Pollo Loco’s Smokey Mountain Black Bean Burrito with its strong, deep flavors. This burrito is full of healthy black beans and is perfect for vegetarians.
The smoky taste makes it even more delicious, for a filling and hearty meal.
If you want a satisfying, tasty meatless choice, you have to try this dish. It mixes spices and textures perfectly in every bite. Enjoy a taste of the southwest with each yummy bite!
Chicken Tortilla Soup (Hold the Tortilla)
This recipe is a small change to the already delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup, like the name says. People who are bravely eating low-carb will like it because it’s all soup without the tortilla.
If you love the taste of chicken tortilla soup but not the texture or all the carbs from an extra tortilla, try this recipe. When you order the Chicken Tortilla Soup, just ask your server to not include the tortilla.
Skinless Chicken
This is a healthier substitute for fatty breaded or “crispy” chicken, just like it sounds.
El Pollo Loco’s chicken is already some of the best, but when the skin is removed, the fat drops by more than half.
That gives you a filling dinner with lots of protein and little fat! That can’t be argued with.
Carb Free
To make it easy, just ask for “carb-free” when ordering basic menu items. Usually this just means the same food without the tortilla, so you don’t have to worry as you eat!
El Pollo Loco also has sides like mixed veggies, side salad, or black beans that are high in protein and nutrients but low in carbs.
Why Does El Pollo Loco Have a Secret Menu?
The secret menu is more than just interesting food – it’s a smart marketing strategy. By having special items, El Pollo Loco makes people feel like they’re getting something exclusive. This builds customer loyalty.
It makes diners feel like insiders who know about the restaurant’s secret delicious food.
Can I order secret menu items through the drive-thru?
Yes, ordering from the secret menu at the drive-thru is usually pretty easy. Since the drive-thru workers at El Pollo Loco know about the secret menu, you can just ask for your favorite hidden items when you order.
You don’t have to miss out on the yummy, unique secret menu just because you like to drive through. Try the Double Chicken Quesadilla or the Fiery Pollo Bowl.
If you ask, they’ll be happy to make your secret menu favorites!
How often does El Pollo Loco update its secret menu?
El Pollo Loco sometimes changes its secret menu items to keep things interesting for customers. They may add new and exciting dishes.
Here are some tips to find out about these changes:
- Check their website regularly.
- Follow them on social media.
- Talk to other El Pollo Loco fans online or in person.
By staying connected, you might be the first to know about any delicious new additions to the secret menu!
Can I customize secret menu items to suit my dietary preferences?
El Pollo Loco is happy to customize items from their secret menu to fit your needs!
Whether you’re looking for a smaller portion, prefer different ingredients, or have specific dietary restrictions, just let the staff know when you order.
They’ll do their best to make your secret menu experience delicious and tailored just for you.
El Pollo Loco’s Hours of Operation
| Day of the Week | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
FAQs About El Pollo Loco Secret Menu
How do I order off the secret menu at El Pollo Loco?
Simply ask your server or cashier if you can order an item from the secret menu. Popular secret menu items include the Double Chicken Quesadilla, the Fiery Pollo Bowl, and Fish Tacos.
What is on the El Pollo Loco secret menu?
Some of the most popular secret menu items at El Pollo Loco are the Double Chicken Quesadilla, the Fiery Pollo Bowl, Fish Tacos, Guacamole Starter, and Pollo Bowl.
Does El Pollo Loco have a secret menu?
Yes, El Pollo Loco has an extensive secret menu with unique food and drink items not listed on their regular menu boards. Popular picks include quesadillas, bowls, and tacos.
Can I order from the secret menu through the El Pollo Loco drive thru?
Yes, you can order items from the El Pollo Loco secret menu through the drive-thru. Just ask the drive-thru cashier if you can order a secret menu item.
What is the best thing to get from the El Pollo Loco secret menu?
Customer favorites from the secret menu include the Double Chicken Quesadilla, the Fire-Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad, and the Chickenless Pollo Bowl. Try one of these popular off-menu items.
How do you access the El Pollo Loco secret menu?
The El Pollo Loco secret menu is accessible by asking your cashier or server if you can order from it. There’s no formal access – it’s simply a hidden menu of special items.
Is the El Pollo Loco secret menu real?
Yes, the El Pollo Loco secret menu is a real, legitimate menu with unique food and drink items not listed publicly. Popular picks are quesadillas, salads, bowls and more.
Where can I find the El Pollo Loco secret menu options?
The El Pollo Loco secret menu options aren’t formally listed anywhere. You’ll need to ask your server or cashier for the full list of secret menu items when ordering.
Does El Pollo Loco have good secret menu items?
Yes, El Pollo Loco has many delicious and unique options on their secret menu. Customer favorites include the Double Chicken Quesadilla, the Fiery Pollo Bowl, and the Guacamole Starter.
What is the most popular item on the El Pollo Loco secret menu?
The most popular item on the El Pollo Loco secret menu is the Double Chicken Quesadilla, featuring double chicken, cheese, pico de gallo and avocado sauce.
Are secret menu items more expensive than regular menu items?
El Pollo Loco’s secret menu items generally cost about the same as their regular menu items. However, some dishes might cost a bit more if they use special ingredients.
Is the secret menu available at all El Pollo Loco locations?
While El Pollo Loco has a secret menu, some items might be different from store to store. Ask the staff at your local restaurant to find out what special options they have!