El Pollo Loco Opens First Idaho Restaurant, Plans 18-20 Outlets in 2026
LOCO•El Pollo Loco opened its first Idaho restaurant in Meridian, marking its entry into the tenth state and reinforcing its national expansion strategy. The chain plans to systemwide launch 18 to 20 new outlets in 2026, backed by consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth and expanding restaurant-level margins.
1. Tenth State Expansion
El Pollo Loco has launched its first restaurant in Meridian, Idaho, at 3471 W Chinden Blvd, marking its entry into the tenth U.S. state and underscoring the brand’s accelerating national growth trajectory.
2. Ambitious 2026 Pipeline
The company aims to open 18 to 20 new restaurants systemwide in 2026—nearly double the pace of 2025—with the majority of locations planned outside California and a second Idaho site scheduled for fall.
3. Strengthening Sales and Margins
The chain has achieved consecutive quarters of positive same-store sales growth alongside rising restaurant-level margins, driven by enhanced unit economics and growing brand recognition.
4. Franchise Partner Expertise
The Meridian restaurant is operated by a franchise group with over 25 years of El Pollo Loco experience, demonstrating the concept’s appeal to seasoned operators and potential investors.
