It's National Fast Food Day today and I have quite the list to share with you all. Now, typically I am one of those that is always talking about real food and the evils of fast food. It's greasy, fattening and not actually a cheaper option than cooking. But, at the same time, I do allow myself the occasional indulgence. I mean, I'm not going to go crazy trying to be a perfect shining beacon of health, either.
That's why today of all days I'm going to let myself have a little fast food–but only the really good kind. I love Latin food (obviously) but everyone knows about Chipotle and Taco Bell isn't really a great example of Mexican food. Instead, I'm brining you the 10 best Latin fast food chains that are going to blow your mind with taste and authenticity. Check them out and, well, maybe give yourself a little taste today.
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El Pollo Loco
With more than 400 restaurants in California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Illinois, Connecticut, Oregon and Utah, this citrus-marinated, flame-grilled-to-perfection chicken is as delicious as it is cheap with their new $5 combos.
Find El Pollo Loco locations here.
Rubio’s Fish Tacos
Known for the amazing takes on a classic taco (like the new beer-battered Avocado Corn Fish Taco featuring sustainable seafood), they have locations all over California with more in Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Colorado.
Find Rubio's Fish Tacos locations here.
Baja Fresh
Their “eat well, live fresh” motto is inspired by the use of all-fresh ingredients prepared by hand every day. They have locations all over the country, Canada and Mexico and even have party platters for your fiesta needs.
Find Baja Fresh locations here.
Pollo Tropical
Famous all over Florida, with a few locations in Georgia and New Jersey, they feature dishes with fresh (never frozen) grilled chicken that’s free of hormones and trans-fats and is marinated in Caribbean-inspired flavors.
Find Pollo Tropical locations here.
Freebirds World Burrito
They stand for the “freedom of choice” with many options to custom build your food in locations all over Texas, along with some in Oklahoma and California, and “pot brownies” that are served in a black pot (and aren’t illegal).
Find Freebirds World Burrito locations here.
Pollo Campero
One of the only international Latino fast food chains, they have locations in Spain, India, Costa Rica and a few others along with locations all over the country. Their grilled, fried or even whole chicken are great options.
Find Pollo Campero locations here.
Tijuana Flats
With 72 locations in states like Florida, Indiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia, their menu includes all the classics along with some specials and a “happy endings” dessert to die for: the cookie dough flautas.
Find Tijuana Flats locations here.
Qdoba Mexican Grill
Located all over the US, their menu emphasizes health (like allergen facts) with details on vegetarian options, learn pork and beef, low-sodium light sour cream and delicious seasonal options like Mexican Gumbo.
Find Qdoba Mexican Grill locations here.
King Taco
From delicious Mexican food that grew out of the first food truck in the 70’s, there are now 20 popular locations all over Los Angeles County. With all of the classics (including traditional sopes), no wonder they’re a SoCal favorite.
Find King Taco locations here.
La Salsa
Nothing can be better than the wide range of salsa options at these popular joints located in Mexico and South Western US. Some of their options include fire-roasted tomato, caliente, mango, verde and several other great flavors.
Find La Salsa locations here.
