4 Best Chicken Restaurants near San Clemente

“The owner/chef is a nice dude with portions as big as his personality. For those unfamiliar- think home cooked “el pollo loco” if you will. His wife is the other chef and prep cook. I like simple food and the Half chicken with rice and beans is my go to since 2018. Local tip: this is a couple who’s been running the joint for over 40yrs, the husband is the only cook and sometimes his wife hopes over to help turn out meals. Sometimes the chicken is underdone when they’re super busy, but in almost 10 years I’ve maybe gotten 3 under cooked meats and when I bring it up, he cooks it more, sometimes throws in a free leg or wing and some extra guac or beans. This is as close to hole in the wall/family as it gets. For what this place is, I hope it stays Open until they retire or a son/daughter takes over. Think el pollo loco before it became mainstream, for a day I’m not feeling burgers, I love coming here and sitting on the. Lot of good fish on the menu too, makes me think Baja or south gulf. Very refreshing eats“

“Food was so amazing 😋 . Love this place. I come here regularly and I have built a connection with a very nice worker named Farouk. We have talked about football and other things before. Outstanding service and food. Definitely recommend 💯“

“Great food. Super nice staff. Thank you. When they say it’s spicy believe them. Dare is almost unbearable. I wouldn’t dare try the double dare. Soooo good.“

“I went through the Chick-fil-A drive-thru and jokingly asked the guy at the window if he could sprinkle some love on my food. Without missing a beat, he blew a kiss to my bag and even made a heart with his hands! It absolutely made my day. It was one of the sweetest customer service experiences I've ever had. Thank you for going above and beyond to make a simple meal so memorable!“