5605 Bellaire Blvd (map) Houston, TX 77081 713-395-0664  http://www.campero.com/ Foodquest: November 25, 2005 Foodie: Slowdog, Ping

When Pollo Campero first opened in Houston, the lines extended down the street.  While nearby restaurants stood nearly empty, Pollo Campero caused its own traffic jam.  What magic does this Guatamalan Fried Chicken chain bring to the United States?  What is it, exactly, that causes people to salivate at the mere mention of the legendary chicken?  Foodquest On The Road is here to find out... 

Pollo Campero is a chain that began in the country of Guatamala.  Founded in response to the popularity of the American chain Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pollo Campero adds a decidedly Latin slant to the art of fried poultry.  Famous for its amazingly tender chicken that is almost greaseless, Pollo Camero chicken is craved by South American expatriates and natives alike.  The chicken is so popular that prior to the establishement of branches in the United States, flights from Latin America would often be jammed packed with hot packets from the local Pollo Camero being taken back for hungry relatives.  The practice proved to be so popular that the chain began adding locations in the airport terminals to serve the demand.   

Like its American counterparts, Pollo Campero chicken is available by the piece or as part of a meal deal.  In addition to the traditional sides like mashed potatoes, the chicken can also be served with a side of fried plantains or Spanish Rice.  In addition to traditional softdrinks, Tamarindo, a drink made from the tamarind fruit and Horchata, a sweet rice drink, are available.  Resembling a large vanilla bean, the tamarind is a tangy fruit that is often used in candies and drink.  But what about the chicken?   The closest thing Pollo Campero chicken resembles is Original Recipe from Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Rather than the 'crispy' batter coated variety of Fried Chicken, the Pollo Campero rendition belongs more to the flour dusted family of Fried Chicken.  The result is a lighter covering which is spiced with paprika and other spices that lend a decidedly Latin accent to the flavor.  Underneath, the meat is surprisingly juicy and practically falls off the bones.  For a fast food restaurant, the chicken is surprisingly good, however still not at the same level as the Fried Chicken at Gene's . 

The fried plantains provide a sweet accent that nicely complements the savoriness of the chicken.  Tortillas are served with the chicken that can be seasoned with salsas from the condiment bar.  It speaks volumes that the tortillas were quickly forgotten  until two or three pieces of the chicken were already consumed.  By itself, the chicken can stand on its own.  When combined with the tomatillo salsa in the tortilla a new taste experience is created. 

Due to the success of its Houston locations, Pollo Campero is now planning to expand nationwide in the United States.  Soon, we may find a Pollo Campero of our own in the Austin area.  When that day arrives, Fried Chicken fans across the city will rejoyce.  Until then, it might be worth the three hour trek to Houston to sample the fare at Pollo Campero.  While you're at it, be sure to make a stop at the legendary Frenchy's in downtown Houston.  There you will find Cajun Fried Chicken and sides that are famous the world over.  But that's a topic for another time... 

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