We want to be very supportive of Temple Terrace restaurants but it is very hard to do this a lot of the times. Last night we ordered out dinner at Pollo Tropical on Fowler. Ordered at 5:45 pm and husband got home at 7:00 pm with dinner (about 1/2 hour time back and forth from home). My husband told me: * No one wanted to wait on him - he kept asking employees, too busy. While the manager of this restaurant just stood around doing nothing. * When someone helped him - they said some of the food items we ordered are out of stock?!? Saturday night?!? o No yellow rice & vegs (really) o No rum sauce o No onions o Caesar Salad was two bites big! o Chicken was dried out - like they cooked it in the morning o Manager still just standing - he asked to speak to the manager and she came over and told him this is the way the restaurant is. She told him you should never order on line because your order will always be wrong! Really, again! o Oh, now we will cook your dinner - it will be a 15 minute wait. They never started our order in the beginning. He wanted to walk out just then but we already paid for dinner on line. We will never go back and so much for supporting our restaurants in Temple Terrace. We tried! read more

This is a great place to go for weekday lunches. I always get the classic chicken sandwich. You get a side dish and a soda with it. Very reasonably priced and the sandwich is great! They do sometimes have a problem when I order it "plain", but it usually comes out right. Also -- whenever we go there it's always FREEZING! The AC is kicked down low and they have the fans on. Brrrr! read more

Food was excellent worth five stars. If we weren't missing the sauce we asked for or the black beans documented in the receipt when we got home. Really? In the after times drive thru has to be perfect or the restaurant is useless. What should we have done? Block traffic and check every aspect of the order right there?! No way to fix this once we got home! Customer service is a Boo! One star! This was a treat after recovery from wisdom tooth surgery for my daughter. Ruined. Thanks kids at the restaurant who didn't care about us. Get a better manger. read more

I really like Pollo Tropical. It still somewhat amazes me that I can order sweet plantains via a drive through. You can get healthy options and when the chicken is cooked well it's really delicious. With that being said I think I'm done visiting this particular location. The service hasn't been good here and my last visit was the worst. I had to wait several minutes for a cashier to appear and when he finally did he had no idea how to redeem a reward from the app, which meant more of a wait while he went and looked for help. When my food was ready they gave it to me for dine-in instead of to-go. The woman who was handing out the food couldn't understand me when I pointed out the error. When she finally realized what I was indicating she started insistently pointing at the order screen. No matter what it said I'm still going to want it to go! I'm going to stick with other locations for my plantain fix. read more

I think Pollo Tropical is a value hunters dream. It is a great value for the amount of food that you get, the food is delicious, and the menu has a good variety of menu items.. all just as great/delicious. There is one right by my school, so the other students and I are there weekly! I think everyone should try it out. Be warned though, once you try the food, you'll be hooked. They usually have a 5.99 weekly special,and on weekends they have a family meal of a whole chicken and sides. read more

Pollo Tropical is my go to place when I want good food with fast service. When I came in around 7:00pm, it seemed like they were busy earlier and some sauces and plastic utensils were out. I had to ask the staff to refill. The sauce station wasn't very clean. They may have understaff on the day. I tried tropichop for the first time. It was good, but I rather have the platter as I feel like I get more chicken. I'll come back. read more

At this point,I am not really sure I made the right choice. I think the bakery across the street would have had better hygiene. The server handed me my change back with his gloves on. I would think more education is needed. I ordered the chicken basil--which the chicken was drowned in a mayo with green flecks. The chicken was grilled on a bun with a couple of pickles swimming in the mayo. The sandwich came with waffle fries. The fries were lukewarm and once I added some salt had better flavor. I thought I had picked something better to eat. read more

For only $20 you can get a large bowl of rice and beans ( could've bought in store for $5) with the most pathetic scoop of protein I've ever been served & a measly ass side of fried yuca. I also asked for a side sauce and the mf charged me like $3 for the little ramekin THAT DIDNT EVEN COME IN THE BAG imagine spending 20$ on basically a mountain of rice and beans with 3 pieces of chicken and a little ass portion of yuca.Luckily traffic was so bad that I didn't have time to comeback and throw that shit at the window. read more

The guy in the front can't even take the order right I repeated myself a few times to still get The wrong order read more

Every time I come here it never fails you'll be in the drive thru line for 15-20 minutes . By the time you actually get to order their either out of something or not selling something which the business needs to update the menu . No customer service ; which everyone there seems to just be there to get a check . I'll no longer be coming to this establishment . It sucks that there is only 2 in distance !!! read more

I ordered to go. I have enjoyed it in the past. The chicken and yucca are my favorites. It is good for a quick and relatively nutritious fast food alternative. read more

To start the staff was smoking outside with gloves and apron on which makes you think that they do not follow sanitary standards. By the time we saw what was going on we had already ordered, the young man at the window was not welcoming at all. Food was ok nothing to brag about, this Tampa location was very disappointing. read more

The food was excellent. However, this is the second time they charged for items I we asked for but never showed up when we opened the containers. This time it was the mashed potatoes. in addition, no silverware or napkins. read more

They are so slow with service, ALWAYS out of products. Never have stuff made and ready to go. Forgets items ordered. I really hate this location. It's a disaster! read more

I stop here often and get quarter chicken. It is very good with, great flavor. Got new chickens blt. Was terrible. Cold chicken on a smashed bun. McDonald's makes a better chicken sandwich and that's not saying much. read more

I love the sauces here. Guava BBQ and Garlic. I ordered the trio platter. The ribs were tough and too much fat on the pork. The black beans needed a tad more flavoring. Other than that, I enjoyed my meal. The staff was very attentive and welcoming. read more

Pollo Tropical - Trio Combo at Pollo Tropical - Fast Food Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Worst restaurant experience of my life. So sad. I eat here 3 times a week and will not be returning. Such a break down of the system. No urgency. No customer service. Your time is limited with this level of nonsense. read more

It's a very busy staff speaking mostly Spanish among themselves and to the customers. Food is delicious and served pretty quickly. Also, free Wi-Fi. Pretty close to the airport if you are waiting for someone to land. read more

First time visiting this restaurant. Dark meat grilled with mashed potatoes was YUM. I guess It's supposed to have an island vibe/flavor? Clean, quick, and staff pleasant enough and on top of the cilantro lime sauce refill soon as they noticed it didn't squirt out for me. read more

As much as I loathe wifi splashscreens (which cause havoc from a lot of devices), Pollo Tropical's was amusing. They asked for my name (Anonymous), my email (me@privacy.net), and then asked me to consent to much more text than anyone could read in that font. Fortunately, the field was editable, so I replaced it with text of my own choosing: "Pollo Tropical® agrees that anyone can use their wifi service in any way they desire. Pollo Tropical® agrees to indemnify and hold harmless everyone everywhere, without limitation." Clicked "Accept", the company accepted my terms automatically, and I was online. Gee, next time I'll ask for one miiillion dollars. It's hard to go wrong here, but my favorites -- black beans and rice, yuca con mojo -- made a delicious lunch while I, uh, used their wifi in any way I desired. And, folks, they're not kidding about the "Salsa Fuego". Go easy on it unless you prefer habaneros to jalapenos. In which case, go right ahead and do a shot of Salsa Fuego. But remember to sign onto the wifi network first and make sure the company agrees to cover all related medical expenses. read more

everytime I hit Tampa or Miami - I'm HERE. The food and the friendly staff make it one of my first choices in quick eats. The don't skimp on their servings and you will certainly get all that you paid for. The free beans which are offered to in restaurant diners are always delicious. The Piro Piro Sauce should have a skull and cross bones on it for the heat level; because it's lethal. If you are hungry and you don't want to break the bank, find Pollo Tropical. I Love This Place and You Will Too. Plus call in the survey and get a free order of Wings - Yes A Whole Order FREE just for Calling in on the best food you'll get in a rush. read more

I like Pollo Tropical. I like Pollo Tropical, a lot. Here is what I like about Pollo Tropical. 1. Convenience - They are all over the place and it is a quick place for a delicious and healthy lunch. 2. Consistency - I have never had a meal that I didn't enjoy. 3. Food (obviously) - I have a strange addiction to their Tropichop bowls. Seriously... a big bowl of rice, meat, beans, and veggies. So delicious! 4. Hot Sauce Bar - Need I say more!? If you are looking for yummy fast food with a Latin flare, Pollo Tropical is your spot! read more

Food had no flavor and tasted super old 0/10 super trashy just go to McDonald's they're food actually has flavor compared to this bad excuse for food. read more

This is the third time I've gotten my food from here rude employees was the first time , the second time they took my order an then had to give me back my money I've already paid , now this is my third time I tried to give y'all at least a couple tries before I said I'll never go back not only because I keep getting wrong food an I don't know till I get home an i call an call an call an nobody EVER ANSWERS ! I'm tired of this I don't even eat nothing at anymore bc of reason read more

Delicious food for affordable prices but has become more of a hassle than a joy, use to be one of my favorites places (use to eat here up to 4 days a week) but due to a steady decline in customer service it has become a terrible experience. read more

Fast, delicious, good portion sizes for the chicken, great prices... what else am I missing...hmm... I was staying across the street at the Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort and was out and about walking and exploring. I got hungry and wanted something quick and satisfying so I tried this chicken joint out... I ordered their 1/4 chicken + 2 sides. The chicken was seasoned and cooked well... the sides came in small porrtions but for the price... you cannot beat it. The employees were all friendly and giving. My favorite is their self serve sauce and condiment section! They had a variety of sauces.... bbq... curried.... salsa.... mango bbq.....onions.... This was my go-to place for lunch and will definitely recommend this place to anyone in the area vactioning in need of a quick yummy fix. read more

Got my order wrong, lady taking my order in the drive-thru was rude and loud. I understand it was a busy night but it's no way to treat a customer. I ordered two dishes and two desserts and didn't even get napkins or silverware for it. read more

Glad to jump on the Pollo Tropical fanatic ship! One of my favorite fast food joint that is quick in service, cheap in price, and great in food! The chickens (white meat) are marinated in a tropical sauce and grilled to almost-perfection! Not only do they offer "Pollo" (chicken) but also pork, steak, and shrimp. Wonderful side dishes; beans, white rice, yellow rice with vegetables, curly fries, salads, platanos, etc. Along with some free self-serve sauces, kickin` it with your meat! Despite the traffic flow of hungry-angry travelers, service is always friendly and quick! read more

Usually love Pollo tropical but selling you a family meal without beans and not replacing it for another side plus racing the prices is call ripping you off. Sad read more

Recently tried this chain for the first time on my lunch break. I would describe the place as a fast-food BBQ place with a tropical flavor. Menu favorites: chicken fajitas, caribbean ribs, boneless chicken breast. Meals served with your choice of rice, fries, and beans. A nice alternative to the usually fast-food places. read more

The food was horrible. I ordered a 1/4 chicken meal, white meat. I was charged extra for white meat. When I got home, the breast, if you could call it that, had barely any meat on it. It looked like I got half a toad instead. Disgusting. read more

Pollo Tropical - Fast Food Near Me - Tampa, Florida

OUT OF BUSINESS!!!!! Need play B, as this no longer exists! Was it good????? It's out of business, but doesn't mean the food wasn't good What's a girl to do? I have one business closes another one opens, so you move on. read more

As a frequent visitor, good food at a great price. Tropichop bowls are great for lunch. Much better than fast food. I usually hit the Waters Ave location as it seems cleaner and better run than the Hillsborough Ave store. Food is comparable at both store, which is an accomplishment in any restaurant. Salsas are nice and fresh tasting, these locations push out a ton of food, and it's always really good. See ya at lunch time! Tropichop and a drink for $5? Love it... C'mon guys, clean this place up so i can raise my stars. read more

Worst customer service ever !!!!!! When asked to add drinks at the window (granted it was already made it was only tea) I was rudely told no because there was a line. But there were two employees not doing anything visibly. Unbelievable. read more

-_- I'm salty af because I'm not Elite anymore. t-_-t. Anyways- Pollo Tropical. Let's discuss. I love their grilled chicken. I can easily eat here and make it fit my macros, and it's delicious. I've had salads, a wrap, and a chicken Caesar salad. It makes me feel a bit better than going through Wendy's and getting a four piece. I never end up feeling like a fatty mcfat. The service is alright. Nothing remarkable. I remember when they used to bring your food to you. Now not so much. I'm not sure what happened. Also, if you order an extra chicken breast, or anything ala carte, they look at you like you're an alien. Finally, the last time I was there I got a raw piece of chicken, and the lady acted like I was putting her out to replace it. Even going as far as telling me it's impossible for their chicken to come out raw. I wish I would have snapped a picture. It was definitely too under done for someone to eat safely. I would expect an apology. Instead I got an argument. I treat my food service professionals with more kindness and respect than most, because a) I love food, and they help my love of food by graciously serving me. B) you never want to piss the people who touch your food off. Ever. That's dangerous. I'll definitely be back. This location is just convenient, and their food is generally pretty dang good. read more

Really good food I had my doubts but it turned out great will be going again just don't go when it's near closing time cause they run out of food real quick read more

Being from CA, I thought this place was going to be like El Pollo Loco...but it wasn't at all. When I saw the menu, I realized it was a Cuban fast food joint...whaaaaat?? So, I got excited and ordered the sampler (chicken, ribs, pork) and yuca fries and red beans and rice, and mac and cheese. Everything was cheap, so why not?! Considering the price, the food is good and it's great for a quick late night bite to eat. read more

Expectations versus deliverables and factor in price and you will hardly get a better establishment. For less than $6, I can get a bowl of rice, veggies, and chix, and a drink to boot! Keep in mind, the reason I come back is their garlic cilantro saunce, their curry mustard sauce, and their po-po sauce.. All amazingly tasty.. much better than say ketchup and yellow mustard. You can get Plantains... And you can get Beer. Its fast food, with waiter service and clearing but no tipping?! So that saves me 20% on the meal.. Thats substantial. Also -- they give you real forks and knives.. Next step is to get them to serve their food in real bowls.. And to use real glasses.. but hey its a step. Plastic usage really needs to drop in order for us as a planet to thrive. read more

Ok. I'm going to be honest. I wasn't too happy my husband chose this place for our lunch yesterday. It looked like a Latin McDonald's. Oh how wrong I was! I ordered the mojo pulled pork with garlic yuca & my husband ordered the boneless chicken breast with rice & beans. I also ordered a tres leche cake to share. Ok...I left this place in a food coma similar to thanksgiving! My husband and I both shared so we could try both meals. So delicious! I'll definitely go back the next time we're in that part of town! read more

Pollo Tropical - Mojo pulled pork, yuca, and for dessert...tres leche! - Fast Food Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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This is one of the few fast-food chains I really enjoy and keep patronizing here and elsewhere in Central//South Florida. In fact I have introduced friends/colleagues to Cuban dishes here. They do an amazingly good job on standard dishes and serve them up quickly to go or eat in. Their grilled chicken, black beans, tomato/basil salad, fried yucca strips and salsa bar are notable, and prices are comparable to non-chain Cuban restaurants. They also experiment with menu additions regularly and offer specials and coupon savings. Parking is ample but a bit difficult to go east on Hillsborough at this point near Dale Mabry. As a demonstration of how the West Tampa restaurant market operates, this Pollo Tropical was originally located on West Columbus in the parking lot serving K-Mart near Dale Mabry. However it was not well patronized, probably due to the abundance of non-chain Cuban food outlets all along Columbus. Since moving to W. Hillsborough Ave, they have thrived without having to add mayonnaise to their selection of sauces. read more