Pollo Campero’s upcoming location in Brooklyn Center could be just the start of the brand’s Twin Cities expansion.
Central American fried chicken chain Pollo Campero, which debuted in West St. Paul in 2010 and will add its second Minnesota location in Brooklyn Center late this year, is aiming to open ten additional restaurants in the Twin Cities.
In a recent interview, Blas Escarcega, the company’s vice president of franchise development, said Pollo Campero is looking to sign a new franchisee with a goal of developing five new locations in five years.
The expansion in the Twin Cities will target communities in or near the urban core, including Minneapolis, St. Paul and Bloomington, in addition to Rogers, Monticello, Forest Lake and Elk River, according to company officials.
Founded as a family-owned restaurant in Guatemala City in 1971, Pollo Campero quickly turned into a global chain and took off across Central America.
When Pollo Campero’s first United States location opened in Los Angeles, California in 2002, the opening drew crowds of Central American immigrants, or so-called legacy customers, who grew up with the brand.
“To them, this is their brand, and they love the fact that we were able to bring it here to the U.S.,” Escarcega said.
And while nostalgia for Pollo Campero recipes that’ve endured for over half-a-century continues to drive success, broader appeal is another the key to the company’s growth in a crowded fried chicken market.
“I think the unique sides is really what captivates a lot of our following,” Escarcega said.
Seasoned fried chicken is Pollo Campero’s signature offering, but there are also empanadas, salad bowls, grilled chicken and more.
The side dish menu features yuca fries, sweet plantains, beans and herb-focused rice, alongside traditional American sides, such as macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and French fries. (https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-lifestyle/central-american-chain-pollo-campero-targets-twin-cities-for-us-growth)
