Two years after opening its first Texas location, Pollo Tropical, the fast casual that has gained a cult-like following for its citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken and authentic island-inspired sauces and sides, has begun its expansion into the Austin, Texas, area and will have five local restaurants by early 2017.
The company's first area restaurant opened in Kyle, Texas, in May, and its first Austin-proper location opens July 22 on the corner of Riverside Drive and Lamar Boulevard in Central Austin.
"Pollo Tropical's expansion into Texas has been gaining momentum over the past two years, and our growth into Austin is a milestone for the brand," says Pollo Tropical chief operating officer Danny Meisenheimer. "Austin is a great food town with a wealth of culinary exploration, and we think that residents will embrace our unique flavors that represent a melting pot of the Caribbean islands."
The new restaurants will feature Pollo Tropical's signature Caribbean-style design that incorporates bright island colors and details to help guests soak up the feel of a shore-side retreat while enjoying handmade, island-inspired cuisine.
- Kyle: opened May 21 at 20471 S. Interstate Highway 35
- Central Austin: opens July 22 at 211 S. Lamar Blvd.
- Lakeway: opens early 2017 at 620 and Glen Heather Drive
- Hyde Park/Mueller: opens early 2017 at Airport and I-35
- Cedar Park: opens early 2017 at Highway 183A and E. Whitestone Boulevard
The company has built its loyal following on its famous fresh, never-frozen, grilled bone-in chicken that is marinated in a proprietary blend of tropical fruit juices and spices then flame-grilled to perfection and served quartered or halved. The menu also includes Mojo Roast Pork, Grilled Tropical Wings, and made-from-scratch sides like rice, beans, Caribbean corn soufflé, and balsamic tomatoes, all at a great value. The Tropical Lite menu offers tasty, lighter options that range from 340 to 510 calories and are built around the core Caribbean flavors of the Pollo Tropical menu. The restaurant uses ingredients that have zero added trans fats or hormones.
At Pollo Tropical, savory island spices, herbs and citrus juices are blended into rubs and marinades that enhance the flavors of its fresh dishes. The famous Saucing Island brings on the flavor—and a little heat—with 10 signature sauces including Curry Mustard, Guava BBQ, Pineapple Rum, Cilantro Garlic, and Spicy Poyo-Poyo. To complement its menu, Pollo Tropical also offers a variety of island-inspired beverages, ranging from Caribbean beers to coconut water.
The 3,400-square-foot restaurants will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and will feature seating for more than 90 guests, with limited table service and a convenient drive thru. Kids eat free at Pollo Tropical all day on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult entr´e. Pollo Tropical makes family gatherings, parties, and even business lunches easy with catering and online ordering.
