El Pollo Supremo

- 221 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281

For decades, El Pollo Supremo has been a beloved institution in the Tempe, Arizona dining scene, standing apart with its uniquely focused and highly flavorful approach to Mexican and Latin American cuisine. This local Mexican restaurant has mastered the art of simplicity, offering a limited but perfect menu centered on two main proteins: Mesquite Charcoal Chicken (Pollo Asado) and tender Tri-Tip Beef Sirloin. The secret to its enduring popularity lies in the method of cooking. By using a Mesquite charcoal grill, the chicken and beef are infused with a deep, smoky, authentic flavor that cannot be replicated by conventional methods, delivering a true taste of traditional roadside grilling.

The mission of El Pollo Supremo is refreshingly straightforward: to do a few things exceptionally well. The menu is not extensive, but every item is executed to perfection. A key highlight is that all orders, whether you choose a Whole Chicken, Half Pound Beef, or the popular Combo Plate, automatically include fresh, fluffy tortillas, signature beans (praised by customers for being cooked without lard, making them friendly to various diets), homemade salsa, and marinated onions. This makes ordering simple and guarantees a full, satisfying meal every time. The consistency in quality has earned the restaurant a reputation for serving some of the most Authentic and flavorful grilled meats in the Valley, appealing to both locals and Tourists visiting the area.

The atmosphere inside is described as Casual and Cozy, embodying the spirit of a true 'hole in the wall' favorite—a place where the focus is entirely on the quality of the food rather than elaborate decor. This humble setting, combined with its reputation for Fast service, makes it a popular destination for College students and the local community seeking a healthy, Quick bite or a substantial meal for Lunch or Dinner.

El Pollo Supremo is conveniently located at 221 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA. This prime location is situated near the Arizona State University (ASU) campus and other key Tempe landmarks, making it an easy and accessible stop for anyone in the area. Its proximity to one of the state's largest universities ensures a steady stream of patrons looking for high-quality, authentic food.

The establishment is committed to Accessibility, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a dedicated Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and comfortably arranged Wheelchair accessible seating. Parking is simplified with a Free parking lot available for customer use, allowing for easy access for those choosing to Dine-in or grab a quick Takeout order.

The restaurant offers a streamlined range of services focused on providing quality food with maximum efficiency:

• Dine-in Service: A Casual and Cozy setting is available for customers who wish to eat their meal at the restaurant.
• Takeout Options: Orders are prepared quickly for easy pickup, perfect for people on the go.
• Focus on Core Menu: Offers its main specialty items—Mesquite Charcoal Chicken (Whole Chicken, Half Chicken, 1/4 Chicken) and Tri-Tip Beef Sirloin (Whole Pound Beef, Half Pound Beef).
• Combo Meals: The Combo Plate includes a selection of both chicken and beef, along with the standard sides, providing excellent value.
• Mexican Beverages: A selection of traditional Mexican drinks (Aguas Frescas) is available, including Horchata, Jamaica, and Piña Colada, alongside standard fountain drinks and Bottled Water.
• Sides and Extras: The menu includes simple, traditional accompaniments like Beans, Salsa, Onions, and Tortillas, plus extra Salads like Cole Slaw, Macaroni, and Potato salad.
• Catering: While not explicitly listed in the service options, the menu portions (Whole Chicken/Pound Beef) are ideal for large group orders for Family-friendly gatherings.
• Payments: Accepts Debit cards, but customers should note the strong historical and anecdotal preference for Cash, with an ATM often available nearby for convenience.

What truly sets El Pollo Supremo apart are its unique features and commitment to quality:

• Signature Mesquite Charcoal Cooking: The primary highlight is the intense, deep flavor achieved by cooking the chicken and beef over a Mesquite charcoal grill, a traditional technique that produces tender, juicy, and profoundly smoky meats.
• High-Quality Protein: The commitment to quality is evident in the choice of protein, specifically the use of high-quality Tri-Tip Beef Sirloin for the beef option, ensuring a superior texture and taste compared to standard carne asada.
• Healthy Options and Customization: The focus on flame-grilled meats and the reported use of no lard in the beans and no pork on the grill positions the restaurant as an excellent source of Healthy options and is accommodating to many dietary sensitivities.
• Authentic Mexican Drinks: The offering of authentic Aguas Frescas—Jamaica, Piña Colada, and Horchata—significantly enhances the cultural experience and complements the rich, smoky main dishes.
• Simplicity and Consistency: The deliberately limited menu ensures every dish is a well-oiled machine of flavor and quality. This focus is a reason customers return for decades, noting the menu is "almost unchanged" and "pitch perfect."
• Value-Added Sides: All main orders come complete with tortillas, beans, salsa, and marinated onions, representing a full, generous meal for the price point. Customer reviews specifically call out the Beans as being "amazing" and integral to the experience.
• Cash Payment Tradition: The strong preference for or requirement of Cash payment is a nostalgic feature of this classic spot, contributing to its "hole in the wall" charm and ensuring lower operating costs, which potentially keeps prices reasonable for the College students and locals.

To plan your visit to this renowned Tempe spot, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 221 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
• Phone: (480) 966-3713
• Mobile Phone: +1 480-966-3713

For anyone in the Arizona area, El Pollo Supremo is worth choosing primarily for the unmatched quality of its Mesquite Charcoal Chicken and Tri-Tip Beef Sirloin. The intense, smoky, and flavorful profile of the meat—marinated and cooked to juicy perfection—is a culinary experience that elevates this far above typical Mexican restaurant offerings. It represents an authentic, simple form of grilling that is both intensely flavorful and a Healthy option.

Beyond the taste, patrons are choosing a genuine piece of Tempe history. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to tradition, exemplified by its enduring and limited menu, and its friendly, family-run atmosphere. This is a place where customers feel a connection to homemade cooking and quality ingredients, such as the widely praised, lard-free beans. The unique offering of a Combo Plate is a smart and satisfying choice for first-time visitors who want to sample the best of both worlds—the Pollo Asado and the high-quality Tri-Tip Beef Sirloin.

In a world of overly complex menus, El Pollo Supremo offers a sanctuary of simple, flavorful excellence. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, filling, and authentic meal, whether you’re grabbing Takeout for the family or enjoying a Cozy Lunch. Remember to bring cash to fully embrace the experience of this beloved, authentic Arizona establishment.

El Pollo Supremo

221 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA