El Pollo Loco has secured a lease for its first-ever East Coast location in New York City, a 2,400-square-foot restaurant at 37-07 82nd Street in Jackson Heights, Queens. Expected to open in 2027, the restaurant will introduce El Pollo Loco’s signature citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken and fresh Mexican-inspired menu to New York City.
Ripco Real Estate’s Dillon Ross, managing director, and Jon Paul Pirraglia, executive vice president, represented El Pollo Loco in the transaction. Anthony Pastecchi of Flushing Kent Realty represented the landlord, Hampton Associates.
“Bringing El Pollo Loco to New York City marks a defining moment for the brand as it expands into one of the country’s most dynamic retail and restaurant markets,” Ross said. “Jackson Heights offers the exceptional foot traffic, diverse customer base and neighborhood energy that make it an ideal location for El Pollo Loco’s first East Coast restaurant. We are excited to help introduce this iconic brand to New York consumers.”
The Jackson Heights restaurant represents the first step in establishing a presence throughout the Northeast.
“We’re excited to welcome El Pollo Loco to Jackson Heights for its first East Coast location,” Pastecchi said. “The neighborhood’s strong pedestrian traffic, diverse community and thriving retail environment make it an ideal fit for the brand’s New York City debut.”
