Pollo Tropical, the Caribbean-inspired fast-casual concept, will break ground on its first Texas location on Monday, November 18.
The 3,400-square-foot restaurant will be built at 5290 Belt Line Road, with a planned opening in April 2014. It is located near the corporate offices of parent company, Fiesta Restaurant Group Inc., which also owns the Taco Cabana brand.
Miami-based Pollo Tropical has more than 100 locations in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee, plus more than 30 international franchised locations. The company plans to open 20 to 22 new restaurants in 2014.
“Bringing Pollo Tropical to Texas is a huge step in our expansion plans for this brand and is, of course, exciting for us at the home office because it’s right down the street,” says Tim Taft Fiesta Restaurant Group president and CEO. “There is nothing like Pollo Tropical currently in the Texas market, and we feel strongly that Texans will embrace our concept featuring fresh, healthy, hand-prepared foods with a Caribbean twist.”
The menu includes platters, sandwiches, salads, wraps, kids meals, and family meals. In addition to grilled chicken, Pollo Tropical offers Mojo Roast Pork and Grilled Tropical Wings, and sides including rice, beans, yuca with garlic sauce, sweet plantains, and more. Pollo Tropical has 10 signature sauces, including Curry Mustard, Guava BBQ, Pineapple Rum, and Cilantro Garlic.
The restaurant will bring 45 new jobs to the area. Pollo Tropical is actively recruiting for new management positions for the market.