Good chicken, pricy but tasty Went to try a taco truck in the area, was closed down. So went to this place to get some tacos. The staff were bored, so I ordered a couple tacos. Price was 6.50 per, which is a little high for the size and style. Took pics then bites. The chicken was not dry, but the taco was. Needed a sauce to really tie things together. It wasn't bad, and I appreciate the pickled onions and cojita cheese. It's a quick meal with decent flavors and short walk from the convention center. It's not crazy good, but it's good enough and an option for the area read more

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The tacos were yummy and tasteful. I got the beef one and the chili chicken. I adore the Brussels sprouts that are crunchy, lively and full of flavor. The staff at first were confrontational . I asked if there were senior dis pints and they said what? They didn't say thank you when I placed the order. The employees needs to be trained to thank people and not just order takers. You will lose customers that way. You pay for your food and sit at a table. read more

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Went here with a large group and had a good experience. We were served quickly, there were a lot of seats open, and the place was clean. I got the chicken quesadilla with fries which was alright. It came with sour cream, but I wish the fries had a dipping sauce like some of the bowls. The rice and green bowls seemed to have big portion sizes. Overall: decent spot near the Hartford Marriott for decent Mexican food at a reasonable price read more

El Pollo Guapo - Chicken Quesadilla - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

We had plans to go somewhere else but got out of an event at the convention center too late. We walked down to Bears and looked back across the street and saw El Pollo Guapo. We hadn't heard of it before so looked up the menu and decided to give it a shot. We all got rice bowls, but our two year old refused to eat it so we ended up getting him a quesadilla too. Everything was fresh and delicious. Only misses were the menu claimed that the bowls were packed full of chicken. I think the kids meal had more than my adult meal, it was just a few small pieces and a bit on the drier side. I also ordered a bahn mi taco special which was good flavored but the texture/consistency of the chicken was different, and I'm not sure how I felt about the marinated cucumber. We don't have a ton of reasons to be near here, but I definitely will look to come back in the future and hope they expand to another location nearer to me. read more

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This was a very interesting place with a great menu. I wish that their specials were also posted online because there was some good things on there - and had to decide what I wanted quickly since it was pretty busy at lunch. It took a little while for our food to arrive to our table (it is a place an order, get a number flag, seat yourself type place), but it was definitely worth it! Ambiance was typical for a faster food type place, bright colors with a modern twist. read more

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Picked up lunch for myself and coworkers and it was absolutely incredible! Bowl was so yummy and the wings were so so delicious!! We ordered online to go which was super easy. We got there and it was clear where to get it. It was fun vibes and had a good atmosphere plus the staff were very kind! Can't wait to come back! 10/10 recommend read more

El Pollo Guapo - Span-ish Chop Salad - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

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We came here on two separate occasions a few days apart. On both occasions, the staff were fantastic -- offering ideas of what to order and patience while we thought about our choices. Food came out quickly. The thing that stands out from both trips were the crispy Brussels sprouts. We had a variety of bowls - both with rice and with salad, and all were okay. The tacos were fine, too -- I thought the banh mi option was interesting. The nachos were tasty and fun. All in all, a solid relaxed place. read more

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Absolutely delicious! Two of my party had the Span-Ish Chop Salad. It was so fresh and delicious. One person had a rice bowl that had plantains. He loved that too. Highly recommend this place for tasty, fresh food! read more

El Pollo Guapo - Span-ish Chop Salad - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

Solid Mexican food, great service, spacious venue, a good deal of variety on the menu.

We visited Wadsworth ( which is great btw) and parked at Front st garage ( Wadsworth validates parking) . Decided to grab lunch at El Pollo and what a great choice. I got the Dazed and Confused bowl and did not disappoint one bit. The food was fresh and delicious. Service was great and ambiance was cute. read more

Was in the mood for something tasty but quick so I decided to stop by Pollo Guapo for the first time. The place was empty, everything looked very clean and organized. It was 4:30p on a Wednesday. The menu is big but I read some Yelp reviews before going so I knew what I wanted to get. I ordered the crispy Brussels sprouts and OMG they are sooooooo gooooooood!!! A must try if you like brussels, they are crispy but not grassy and they add vinegar or lime to them so it has a little hint of tanginess that takes them to another level! Also ordered the Almost Legal bowl and I was impressed by the well balanced sweetness to savory ratio. It had sweet plantains, cheese, avocado, corn, rice and a siracha sauce that wasn't too spicy. The portion is BIG I was only able to eat less than half. Highly recommend if you want something flavorful and quick. read more

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It's a really good taste of latin food They are really fast They treat you good and help you out to take your choice read more

Great fresh bowl. Very healthy. Nice patio and chill music. Friendly service too! Quite a nice place for a quick bite. read more

El Pollo Guapo - The chicken Arroz Con Pollo Rice Bowl. Has avocado, plantains. Amazing. - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

Almost legal Spicy slaw, grilled corn, cheese, pickled onion, and sriracha aioli with rice and rotisserie. I was at the convention center down the street and stepped out for lunch here. The Almost Legal Bowl had some spice to it and it was very filling. It was also healthy and I am happy I visited here. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Almost Legal. $13 - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

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Not to be dramatic or anything but this food changed my life. Any and all thoughts leave my brain because of how amazing this food is, please don't ever close. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

I came here on Friday for lunch right when they opened. I was torn between the Arroz con pollo and the Almost Legal. Not being sure how spicy the Almost Legal was, I opted for the Arroz con pollo. The food came out quickly and was a large portion. In hindsight, I wish I had done the spicy one. The sauce was very strong on the lime flavor. Overall though, the food was very good. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Arroz Con Pollo Rice Bowl - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

I guess this qualifies as upscale fast food. The chicken was seasoned well and decent sized. But I believe the Brussel sprouts are the star of the show. It's so much better than standard French fries. Guapo chicken came with yellow rice which was fine but nothing like the sprouts. Service was quick and the tables were clean. The ambiance was pleasant especially for fast food. read more

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So, so delicious. Really well done rotisserie chicken in a variety of ways. You can get straight up chicken, rice bowls, salad bowls and tacos. I usually go for a rice bowl or salad bowl. They really load on the toppings as well. My favorite bowls are the almost legal and the Spanish chop. I actually usually get the rice bowls without the aioli and the salad bowls with the dressing on the side. The standard amount they put on their bowls is a lot. I will say the bowls are overall a little greasy but still delicious. Highly recommend ordering ahead for pickup. On a Tues the line was really long to order and then I waited about 20 min to get my food. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Almost legal rice bowl and added brussel sprouts - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

Perfect lunch spot! While attending an event at the convention center I picked this place because it was conveniently located; it exceeded my expectations. Delicious chicken, great sauce (I got garlic lime, it had a great lime flavor), and very affordable. The rice was good, but the fries were a little limper than I'd like. Atmosphere was perfect to sit and take a break from the convention. Cashiers and severs were friendly and fast. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Rotisserie chicken, fries and rice - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

Stopped in for quick take after a long day at work. Got two burritos bowls. Did make your own version. Love that you can customize. The chicken was juicy and flavorful. The marinated red onions was made the whole thing amazing. The flavor combo was right on spot. Just enough and healthy with it being boring or too much. The place is a good spot to hang out work as well. Parking is limited in the front so park in garage or block over. read more

Although I have not "dined in" at this location, it's been great to pick up lunch when I forget mine (intentionally or not). They have a prime location within walking distance to the UCONN Extension and the CT Convention Center. They have 2 other locations in the Central CT area and it's all very consistent. I've had their bowls and tacos and vouch for both - notably the Spent Bowl. If you are (or are dining with) a vegetarian they are happy to substitute the chicken for a variety of non-meat options (personally I always go for the crispy chickpeas). For sides, you can't go wrong with their sweet potato wedges and chips/guac. The guac is super chunky and the chips have the right amount of seasoning on them. So good that it's always hard for me to share! read more

I've been here twice now and both times have gotten the Spent Bowl with chips. I don't live or work downtown, but the Spent Bowl itself is worth a 25 min drive. This is in the top 3 salads I have ever had in my life. I would never have thought to put all these ingredients together but it is bursting with flavor and texture. Ingredients are fresh and bowl is sizable - certainly enough for a dinner entree, though I've made it two lunches myself. The chips ($2 for a shareable bag) are thick and nicely seasoned. I think it's a chili lime seasoning dusted on them, salty but not spicy hot at all. Do yourself a favor and pay 95¢ for an extra dressing and then dunk the chips in it. Divine! The interior is very cute; it's fast causal so you order at a counter and they bring it to your table. Seating layout is accessible - both high and low tables, as well as a bench seat with movable tables so you can fit a larger group or push the table out from the bench for added room. Alcohol is available to purchase, as well as fountain soda from Hosmer, but sizable water cups are available at no cost. I'm a bit of a water snob and this water tastes great. I suspect it was filtered. Staff has been very pleasant both visits and there is a discount for UConn students! I wish there was one of these at the main Storrs campus. It would do very well! My only critique would be about sustainability. I suspect most people are taking their orders to go but the bowls, the dressing, the cups, the silverware are all plastic. I was there at the end of the night once and the empty drink cans, which folks had left on top of the trash area for recycling, were all just dumped into the trash can under it as part of the closing chores. Feels like these could be easy improvements for the future. read more

My family needed lunch on the ride home from a dance competition in Massachusetts. When I saw El Pollo Guapo on Yelp, I knew it was going to be "on the way" whether it was or wasn't. Absolutely great menu for a foodie, fantastic menu for healthy eating, great options for kids. Really an all around win. Additional pluses were the reasonable parking in the area, modern and clean interior, and professional staff. I considered sharing the 1/2 chicken and two sides meal with my wife but she wanted to try the Span-ish salad with chicken. I have a big appetite and went ahead with the two person meal anyway. I selected chicken fat potatoes and Brussels sprouts for my sides. You also get two flavorful dipping sauces, I went with garlic aioli and chimichurri sauce. After placing our order, we received a number to put at our table and commenced the wait. After a reasonable amount of time, our food landed and I knew we were in for an epic meal! The sides portions are fantastic, a great amount of deliciously prepared dishes. I loved both the potatoes and the Brussels sprouts. Huge flavor prepared perfectly, also enhanced by the dipping sauces. The main event did not disappoint! The chicken was remarkable, juicy but not gushing and seasoned amazingly! Unlike some other rotisserie I've had, this chicken was kept in balance. Not overly spiced, you can really taste the chicken. Also great with the sauces. My wife enjoyed the salad. Kids quesadillas were also tasty. I certainly hope that El Pollo Guapo is on my way somewhere in the future. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Half Chicken Meal features wonderful chicken and delicious sides and sauces!! - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

Food is pretty mediocre. Not awful, but generally bland. Completely forgettable in every way.

Brussel sprouts are hands down the best. The "spent bowl," fantastic. Tacos? Wonderful. Prices are reasonable and fair for the food you get. Wish the side dressings were larger, but overall decent. Go there. You won't be disappointed. read more

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Excellent food, even better service. I ordered catering from this location and very highly recommend. The staff were extremely helpful, kept open communication and worked with me at the last minute to make additions. The food was excellent. We had a large group, 40ish people, with food allergies and different preferences. Every single person got seconds and raved about the delicious food. If you've ever catered a large group you know it's impossible to find something for everyone. El Pollo Guapo hits the mark! Don't skip dessert! The brownies and cookies were both delicious also. I feel like I've gained new friends as well. You don't see service like this anymore! Thank you so much to Bruce, Kaitlyn and the team. read more

First but NOT the last visit!! Dazed and confused bowl was a total culinary delight. What an AMAZING combination of flavors! The rice with peas, caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, roasted brussels sprouts, roasted corn, pico de gallo, cheese, pickled onions and super tender chicken seemed like a lot! But the flavor combo of this mix was out of this world! I opted for the sauce on the side, a creamy lemony aïoli was just another layer of deliciousness! It was too much to finish in one sitting and heats up well as leftovers too! I'm already looking forward to my next visit! read more

I don't normally go for Mexican joints but I to chose between this and Bears BBQ so I took this road. Although I heard great things about Bears, I was not disappointed with my choice. I ordered the chicken quesadilla with some fries and both of them completely and utterly slapped. This was probably the best tasting Quesadilla that I've had in the US. The service was A1 and the atmosphere was definitely that of a hangout spot. I don't if and when I'll be back in Connecticut but definitely give this place a go if you're in the area. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Chicken Quesadila and fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

This restaurant was highly recommended. As I approached the establishment I noticed the quaint out door seating. As I entered the establishment and noticed the picture of a big rooster/ Chicken on the wall as well as the colorful chairs and bright menus that hung in the front of the registers. I ordered the Dazed and Confused Guapo Bowl. Plentiful, flavorful, fresh and exciting dish. Made with chicken, roasted broccoli, arugula, pickled onions, tomatoes, and so much more. I already recommended to friends and I will return! read more

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The Front Street location is just a good as the Newington one, but with a lot more seating. It looks pretty amazing inside. I love the chicken cartoon painting. If you work downtown, El Pollo Guapo should definitely be on your radar. The nachos are awesome as are the fries and the brussel sprouts. I am all about the Dazed and Confused bowl. Just recently I picked up an order for ten people and it was ready in 15 minutes after I called it in on the phone. That's so fast and convenient. Everyone loved it and raved about how fresh everything tasted. The chicken is so good! I will definitely be back. The Front Street area is a hidden gem in Hartford. So many cool things there and El Pollo Guapo is definitely one of them! read more

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My colleagues and I needed to have a quick lunch meeting and they suggested El Pollo Guapo. This was my first time here so the workers had to explain to me how to order and etc. I got a vegetarian bowl which included avocado, plantain, caramelized onions and much more. Total came out to about $13 which I thought was pricy. When you dine in, they bring your food to your table. I think this hero's with avoiding a line by the register. The food was tasty so I will definitely be returning. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, diverse menu - without a doubt this place deserves 5 STARS!! You know why else? Whether it's Ubereats or in-store ordering the food quality is consistent and scrumptious! Not to mention, the staff is friendly and on-point (there's no slackers here. Plus I appreciate the "JAMMIN" *bob Marley voice* soothing chill Caribbean vibes music while I wait for my food) They have the flavor you're looking for in a fast casual spot PLUS they can satisfy the pickiest eater and foodie at the same time all for less than $15 per person. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Quarter White Crispy Brussels Sprouts Handsome Rice - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

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We were looking for something a bit different than what is steps from XL for some pregame food. Fellow Yelpers have raved about this place so no hesitation trying it out. Really like the space, high ceilings, clean and bright. Hosmer soda on tap, not something typically seen, at least not in New Haven area. Only one diet selection, cola. It actually tastes like root beer so I don't know if lines crossed or that's just Hosmer? The menu was both simple yet generous in its choices. The menus are posted on Yelp so I won't go into that. I chose the Arroz con Pollo bowl, which contained what seemed like most of their signature items; chicken, lime slaw, pickled onions, rice, etc. The portion was generous and looked very fresh. Unfortunately, it was way too salty and I threw away half the bowl. We also ordered the corn side dish. It was overcooked to dry and chewy and didn't have much flavor. Finally, we got the chips and queso. The chips were very good, best part of the meal, however, they were unevenly seasoned and we didn't realize how good they were until we hit some chips that were well-seasoned. While my dining partner thought the queso was very good, I thought it was too thin, soupy even, and didn't have much taste. It certainly didn't have the consistency of a typical thicker queso. Not sure I'd go back. Disappointing. read more

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I have only ordered here one time, and we treated ourselves for lunch at work. I tried my coworkers bowl.. and I had the chicken and caramelized onion quesadilla.. and honestly? Delicious. I will say.. it was a bit pricey for what you get, but was definitely delicious and the food quality is high. Just because there are up charges for ordering delivery- I would recommend stopping in. Definitely worth your time. read more

El Pollo Guapo is the best affordable, clean and yummy place to eat in downtown Hartford I think. It's quite packed in the afternoons during lunch time with UCONN nearby, but you are always welcomed with a smile and find a seat. I even enjoy looking at posters of local events on their notice board. I try to eat different things on their menu, and everything I have tasted uptil now has been just fabulous. Their chicken is fresh and juicy; and bowls are tasty and filling. Hola Guapo Tacos is great for lunch or even a snack. I am a big fan of their sweet and salty Plantains and have bought them as a take out couple of times- they taste amazing with their special Garlic Lime Aioli- fingerlickingly delicious! I am yet to try out their other branches in Newington and Glastonbury, it's a great brand to grow. read more

We went to the Hartford location. A very delightful space! The decor was really upbeat and welcoming. You order at the counter, they give you a number to take with you to display on your table. When the food is ready they bring it to you. I ordered the "Damn that's a Spicy Taco" which had their signature rotisserie chicken, pico de gallo, sriracha, spicy slaw and roasted corn. It was true to its name-spicy! However, the one part I did not like was the CHICKEN!? Dried out, large chunks for a small hand held taco We shared the roasted corn which was over done, lackluster flavor and just boring. Also shared the chips and queso which was very good. The place was nice, the people were nice but the food was not worth going back for. If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. read more

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The reviews don't lie and the hype is real. A great addition to the area. The inside has a modern chill vibe going on and I'm here for it. The fountain drinks are not from a big name soda company which is refreshing to see - literally! The food choices are simple yet flavorful and delicious. I had the rice bowl "almost legal" and it was spycilicious. Definitely ordering it again. I loved the addition of the yellow plantains. Perfect place for a quick lunch or a bite before a movie. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

My friend has been raving about this place since it opened basically across the street from his apartment. We went for lunch yesterday (6/25) and I totally get it now. We each had the taco combo lunch special, which is $11 for two tacos, a drink, and rice or fries. I got the Hola Guapo and the Fun-Gai tacos with the fries. I was a little nervous about the fries since they have a chili-lime seasoning, but it was really subtle. The tacos come with two corn tortillas and are over-stuffed, so that you can eat over the backup tortilla and create a second taco for yourself. So, really, you're getting FOUR tacos rather than two. I cut the brussel sprouts into smaller bites because I literally couldn't fit the taco in my mouth at first, but it was worth every effort. I hope that this place receives the attention and appreciation it deserves so it can stick around for a long time. They have an extremely limited menu, which allows them to pay attention to detail and really excel rather than being spread thin among a huge menu. Good price point for Front Street and, again, great quality. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Hola Guapo and Fun-Gai tacos with the house fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut

I have came here on 3 different occasions and all three times I will give 5 stars!! I am extremely picky when it comes to ordering out and this restaurant definitely comes on top!! If anyone in the downtown Hartford area is craving a delicious meal this place definitely takes the taco!! read more

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We recently got takeout from El Pollo Guapo after attending a conference in Hartford. I love the versatility of their bowls, and how they all feature their rotisserie chicken. Everything came out fresh and hot, and packed a flavor punch. I especially loved the fried plantains on my bowl (so good!) will definitely be back next time I'm in Hartford. read more

El Pollo Guapo - Chicken Shop Near Me - Hartford, Connecticut