***Special Post by Keith***
Since Micky recently reviewed Nando’s I thought I would give a bit of a counter point and do a guest review of my favorite chicken place. I usually like to keep these little secrets to myself so the crowds don’t overwhelm my lunch hour (I haven’t even taken Micky here yet, haha) but this place has already gotten plenty of press and I’m not sure it could get any busier. It’s even been featured on Bourdain’s DC episode of No Reservations. Of course I am talking about El Pollo Rico in Clarendon, Arlington. Closest Metro is Virginia Square.
In a sea of seemingly never ending Peruvian chicken restaurants throughout Arlington this one stands out as head and shoulders above the rest. They keep it as simple as simple gets; you basically have 3 choices – chicken, more chicken or the whole freaking chicken. Your order comes with either fries, coleslaw or both. You also get a choice of sauces, a mild mayo-ey concoction and a super spicy green chile salsa type thing. Personally I get both and mix them together.
When you enter head right for the counter and place your order, but be prepared to wait in line. This place can get crazy during lunch and dinner (I do not recommend driving), but I think that is part of what makes it so great. Because it is so busy the chicken is always hot, fresh and moist. It is roasting right there on the firey spits behind the counter. The friendly employees cut the charcoal roasted chicken as you order and serve it to you on a styrofoam plate via an old school cafeteria tray. Don’t forget to pick a drink. They have a pretty big selection, including some imports like Inca Cola. It isn’t my favorite but seems to be very popular.
El Pollo Rico is probably not a great date night spot, but if you are in the mood for some serious chicken, and aren’t worried about getting your hands dirty, it gets my highest recommendation.
Just a note, I have only been to the one in Arlington so I cannot vouch for the other locations that have started popping up. Eat at your own risk.
Total Rating: 4.5
Food: 5, Price: 5, Service: 4, Ambience: 2, Accessibility: 3
Food: 5, Price: 5, Service: 4, Ambience: 2, Accessibility: 3
What Keith ate:
♥1/2 Chicken♥
with fries and coleslaw
