El Pollo Loco Christmas Hours – Updated Store Times (Updated in 2025)
Planning your holiday meals means knowing when your favorite spots are open. If you’re craving El Pollo Loco’s signature flame-grilled chicken this Christmas, it’s smart to check their hours ahead of time. Holiday schedules often change, and you don’t want to miss out because the restaurant is closed or closing early.
El Pollo Loco usually adjusts its hours during Christmas to give employees time with their families. By staying informed about their Christmas hours you can plan your visit without any surprises. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner, knowing the exact opening and closing times helps you enjoy your meal stress-free.
El Pollo Loco Christmas Hours Overview
El Pollo Loco adjusts its operating hours during Christmas to balance service with employee time off. Knowing these variations helps you plan your visit without inconvenience.
Typical Operating Hours During Holidays
El Pollo Loco often reduces standard hours on Christmas Day, typically opening later and closing earlier than usual. Many locations operate from about 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, which differs from regular hours running approximately 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM. These adjusted hours allow staff to spend time with family while still serving customers.
How Hours May Vary by Location
Hours during Christmas vary by store based on local management decisions and community demand. Some locations may close entirely on December 25th. Checking your local El Pollo Loco’s website or calling ahead confirms specific holiday hours. This step prevents any unexpected closures or changes.
Planning Your Visit on Christmas Eve
Planning your visit on Christmas Eve helps you enjoy El Pollo Loco without hassle. Knowing the specific hours and peak times ensures a smooth experience.
Special Hours and Services
El Pollo Loco usually maintains regular or slightly reduced hours on Christmas Eve, often from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Some locations may offer limited menu items or special holiday deals, but this varies by store. Drive-thru and takeout services usually remain available, while dine-in options depend on the location. Confirm your preferred branch’s hours and available services by checking their official website or contacting them directly to avoid surprises.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Visit during off-peak hours such as late morning or early afternoon to avoid the Christmas Eve rush. Ordering online or using the mobile app can speed up service and reduce wait times. Planning ahead for takeout or drive-thru orders minimizes contact and helps you secure your meal without long lines. Being flexible with your visit time ensures a quick, convenient trip to El Pollo Loco on Christmas Eve.
Christmas Day Hours and Availability
El Pollo Loco modifies its hours on Christmas Day to balance customer service with staff time off. Understanding these changes helps you plan your visit without inconvenience.
Which Locations Are Open
Franchise and company-owned locations often differ during the holidays. Many operate from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but some may close entirely. Urban and high-traffic stores usually remain open, while suburban or less busy outlets might shut down. Confirm your nearby store’s status through the official website or by calling directly before heading out.
Menu Options During Holiday Hours
Menu availability typically stays consistent, but some seasonal items or limited specials might not be offered. Core items like flame-grilled chicken, sides (coleslaw, beans, tortillas), and beverages remain accessible. Drive-thru and takeout services generally operate as usual, though delivery options can vary by location. Ordering online or via the mobile app guarantees accurate menu information and streamlines your holiday meal planning.
Alternatives to Dining In
You can enjoy El Pollo Loco meals during Christmas without dining in. Several convenient options ensure you still get your favorites even if restaurant hours are limited.
Takeout and Delivery Services During Christmas
El Pollo Loco maintains takeout services on Christmas Day, with availability typically matching the adjusted store hours between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Delivery service depends on the location, with many urban stores partnering with third-party apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. These services may operate slightly reduced hours or experience higher demand, so ordering early helps secure timely delivery. Drive-thru lanes often remain open and reduce wait times compared to walk-in takeout.
Online Ordering Availability
Ordering online through El Pollo Loco’s website or mobile app remains available throughout the Christmas period. You can schedule orders ahead or choose curbside pickup to minimize contact and wait times. Online menus reflect updated holiday hours and any menu restrictions, so ordering digitally ensures accurate options and availability. Using the app also allows access to exclusive holiday deals and promotions not available in-store.
How to Confirm Your Local Store’s Holiday Hours
Knowing your local El Pollo Loco’s holiday hours ensures you avoid unexpected closures or changes. The following methods provide direct and reliable information to plan your Christmas visit.
Using the Official Website and App
Visit El Pollo Loco’s official website to find store-specific holiday hours easily. Enter your city, state, or zip code in the store locator tool to view updated operating hours for each location during Christmas. The mobile app also offers real-time updates on hours and menu changes, letting you place orders with confidence. Both platforms provide access to exclusive holiday deals and specials not available otherwise.
Calling Your Local El Pollo Loco
Contacting your local El Pollo Loco by phone confirms holiday hours and any special arrangements directly. Store staff give the most current information on opening and closing times, menu availability, and service options like drive-thru or takeout on Christmas Day. Calling ahead avoids surprises, especially since hours may vary by location due to local management decisions. Keep the store’s phone number handy for quick access during holiday planning.
Conclusion
Knowing El Pollo Loco’s Christmas hours helps you plan your holiday meals without hassle. Checking local store hours ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on their delicious flame-grilled chicken during the festive season.
Whether you choose dine-in, takeout, or delivery, staying informed about holiday adjustments makes your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Using the official website or mobile app is the easiest way to get accurate, up-to-date information and take advantage of exclusive holiday deals.
This way, you can focus on enjoying great food and quality time with your loved ones throughout the holidays.