El Pollo Loco Announces New Denver Location Opening This Year

It's got people clucking.

March 4, 2022

El Pollo Loco

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Another day, another chain with a cult following coming to Colorado. El Pollo Loco has had a presence in Denver before: It operated a location at 1401 South Federal Boulevard before that outpost shut down in 2011; the space is now home to Pho 95.

But by the end of the year, El Pollo Loco will bring its fire-grilled chicken to 4698 Peoria Street. According to 9News, construction is set to begin in April.

It won't be the only location for long. The fast-food chain is planning to open ten to fifteen more outposts in the Denver area, as well as additional locations in Colorado Springs in the next five years.

The announcement comes on the heels of Whataburger's comeback to the state. Its first location in Colorado since 1970 opened in Colorado Springs on February 23, drawing long lines of hungry fans.

A slew of other fast-casual chains, including PrimoHoagies and Chicken Salad Chick, are planning to move into the state this year.

So what are we still missing? Which chains from out of state do you crave? Or are you tired of Colorado becoming a go-to market for the expansion of brands like these? Let us know at [email protected].

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Molly Martin has been the Food & Drink editor at Westword since 2021. Prior to joining the staff, Molly reported on the Denver dining scene for more than a decade and contributed to Thrillist. At Westword, Molly monitors restaurant openings and closings, offers dining recommendations and reports on Denver-area food news and trends. She also publishes such annual lists as Top 100 Bars and Top 100 Restaurants, and contributes to the yearly Best of Denver edition. In 2023, she was recognized with the Colorado Restaurant Association's Outstanding Media Professional award.

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