The restaurant chain El Pollo Loco, known for its Mexican-style grilled chicken, has signed a lease for its first East Coast establishment in the United States. The branch will open in New York City, specifically in Jackson Heights, Queens. This expansion represents a significant step for the brand, which has primarily been represented on the West Coast until now.
El Pollo Loco has entered into a 10-year lease for a 2,400 square foot space at 37-07 82nd Street in Jackson Heights. The opening of the new branch is expected in 2027. The exact rent amount was not disclosed; however, the average asking rent for retail spaces in Jackson Heights ranges between 45 and 65 US dollars per square foot, according to data from RI Manhattan Realty.
Strategic Site Selection in Queens
Dillon Ross and Jon Paul Pirraglia from Ripco Real Estate represented the tenant in this transaction. Ross emphasised that El Pollo Loco's opening in New York City marks a pivotal moment for the brand as it expands into one of the country's most dynamic retail and restaurant markets. He further elaborated that Jackson Heights offers an ideal location for El Pollo Loco's first East Coast restaurant due to its high footfall, diverse customer base, and vibrant neighbourhood energy.
The new El Pollo Loco premises are located on the ground floor along 82nd Street, a space previously occupied by Burger King. Anthony Pastecchi of Kent Realty represented the landlord, Hampton Associates, in the deal. Pastecchi also expressed his delight at El Pollo Loco's establishment in Jackson Heights, highlighting that the district's strong pedestrian traffic, diverse community, and flourishing retail environment provided ideal conditions for the brand's debut in New York City.
West Coast Success and Expansion
The restaurant chain, known for its Mexican-inspired grilled chicken, currently operates almost 500 locations primarily on the West Coast, including in California, Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, Nevada, Texas, and Utah. The expansion to New York City marks a turning point in El Pollo Loco's growth strategy, opening up a significant new market on the American East Coast.
