#USA #Costa Mesa #BBQ Black Beans #El Pollo Loco #Fire-Grilled Chicken

El Pollo Loco Brings Back a Fan Favorite: BBQ Black Beans

The anticipation among fans has reached its peak as El Pollo Loco, renowned for its fire-grilled chicken, announces the return of a beloved menu item: BBQ Black Beans. Scheduled to make their comeback on June 25, 2026, these flavorful beans are back by popular demand and will be available for a limited time at participating locations nationwide.

A Delicious Return

After a long absence that sparked significant consumer requests on social media, the BBQ Black Beans have officially made the cut. Known for their slow-simmered preparation, these beans deliver a delightful mixture of sweet and smoky BBQ flavors that many customers have been missing. El Pollo Loco fans were vocal about their love for this side dish, with 46% of respondents in a recent Instagram poll choosing BBQ Black Beans as the retired item they most wanted to return.

One enthusiastic fan exclaimed, "Omg the black beans!! Haven't had them since I was a kid. Still crave them!" This emotional connection shows just how much this item means to customers of all ages and highlights El Pollo Loco’s commitment to listening to its patrons.

A Culinary Essential

The return of the BBQ Black Beans isn't just celebrated by customers; the restaurant's own staff has expressed similar enthusiasm. René Pisciotti, Senior Director of Culinary Innovation and Executive Chef at El Pollo Loco, has made it his mission to reintroduce these beans. Recollecting his own childhood memories, Pisciotti stated, "From the day I joined this brand, my #1 mission was to get the BBQ Black Beans back on our menu. I loved them growing up, and I am absolutely thrilled to have them back on the menu this summer."

Available in both small and large sizes, the BBQ Black Beans provide the perfect complement to El Pollo Loco’s signature fire-grilled chicken meals and other items on the menu. Fans have long noted how well these beans pair with the restaurant's offerings, which are crafted with quality ingredients and inspired by Mexican flavors.

Limited-Time Offering

Mark your calendars! The BBQ Black Beans will only be available for a limited time starting June 25, so customers are encouraged to visit their local El Pollo Loco to experience this return of an iconic flavor. To ensure you don’t miss out, download the Loco Rewards app or navigate to ElPolloLoco.com for more updates and to place an order.

About El Pollo Loco

Founded in 1980, El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq: LOCO) has grown to become the leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant in the United States. The chain boasts over 500 restaurants across nine states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, and more. With a commitment to inclusivity, the company takes pride in its diverse workforce and community engagement.

El Pollo Loco’s dedication to using fresh ingredients has made it a recognizable name in the fast-casual dining sector. Recognized by USA Today as a top choice for quick, healthy food, they continuously innovate their menu while honoring customer favorites like the BBQ Black Beans.

To stay updated on the launch and other exciting news, fans are encouraged to follow El Pollo Loco on their social media channels, including Instagram and TikTok. The countdown has begun, and the return of BBQ Black Beans is sure to be a hit this summer!

For inquiries, you can reach out to their media relations at DeVries Global.