El Pollo Loco: What’s Vegetarian Editorial Review

El Pollo Loco is built around flame-grilled chicken, so there’s no veggie burger or meatless entree on the menu. The good news is that the beans, rice, tortillas, guacamole, and salsas are all vegan already, so a little customizing goes a long way toward a full meal.

What to order at El Pollo Loco

The BRC Burrito without cheese is vegan as ordered, wrapping beans, rice, and cilantro in a flour tortilla. Order the Original Pollo Bowl with avocado swapped in for the chicken, and skip the cheese and sour cream for a vegan bowl built on beans and rice. Avocado Tacos on corn tortillas are naturally vegan, and the Tostada Salad or Street Corn Salad both go vegan once you drop the chicken, cheese, and creamy dressing. Chips and guacamole round out any order, along with the corn and flour tortillas.

What to watch out for

Corn on the Cob and broccoli both need a no-butter request to stay vegan. Mac and Cheese is vegetarian but not vegan, and the Mashed Potatoes come with chicken gravy, so they’re off the list entirely. Churros and coleslaw are vegetarian, not vegan. Since El Pollo Loco menus vary by location, confirm with your local restaurant before ordering, especially on the build-your-own fajita and veggie burrito options, where the fillings and what’s stocked that day can differ.