BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON — In a city celebrated for its culinary diversity, El Pollo Feo has made a well deserved name for its self. The family-run food truck, the brainchild of Chef Josue Martinez (better known as Josh), has rapidly become a local favorite, serving up an unforgettable menu of smash burgers with a Salvadoran and hip hop twist. From its creative burger names to its commitment to quality, El Pollo Feo is rewriting the rules of foods in Bellingham and beyond.
The Origins of El Pollo Feo
“After successfully launching several restaurants for others, I realized it was time to take the leap and open my own,” Josh shared. “Seeing the impact I had in driving their success inspired me to create something of my own.”
The name “El Pollo Feo,” which translates to “The Ugly Chicken,” holds a deeply personal significance. Growing up in a Salvadoran household, Josh and his brothers were called “pollitos” (“little chicks”) by their mother. The name not only honors his family and heritage but also stands out in a crowded market, reflecting the playful and welcoming spirit of the truck.
A Family Affair
El Pollo Feo is more than just a food truck; it’s a family operation. Josh’s partner, Autumn, manages daily operations and is the Event Coordinator, while his brother Saul works as the prep cook, ensuring the ingredients are fresh and ready. Johnny, another of Josh’s brothers, steps in to help on the truck when needed. “It’s a family-run business at its core,” Josh said. “Having my loved ones involved makes this journey even more rewarding.”
The Menu: A Tribute to Music and Flavor
El Pollo Feo’s menu is as unique as it is delicious. Burgers like the “Mary Plain Blige” and “Marshall Mathers” pay homage to iconic music artists while delivering unforgettable flavors.
The “Mary Plain Blige,” a fan favorite, offers a classic backyard burger experience elevated by house-made sauce and perfectly smashed patties. Meanwhile, the “Marshall Mathers,” named for Eminem comes with unexpected combinations that highlight Josh’s culinary creativity. For adventurous eaters, the “Cardi B.urger” brings the heat with a spicy kick, while the “Mac Miller” tops its smash patties with creamy, made-to-order mac and cheese.
“We name our burgers after some of my favorite rappers, R&B, and hip-hop artists,” Josh explained. “Each name reflects the burger’s ingredients, vibe, or a clever play on words.” Even the loaded fries, like the “Kendrick” and “Missy Elliot,” carry this creative naming convention, adding a playful twist to their indulgent offerings.
Commitment to Quality
From locally sourced produce to a proprietary beef blend crafted in collaboration with Preservation Meat Collective, every ingredient at El Pollo Feo is chosen with care. The team ensures consistency and quality through meticulous preparation and cooking processes, with Saul playing a key role in maintaining these high standards. For those with dietary restrictions, the truck offers gluten-free buns, Impossible patties, and even a special dog-friendly patty called the “Lil Bow Wow.”
The Buzz and Expansion Plans
Operating Tuesday through Sunday at Kulshan Brewing’s Kentucky Street location, at 1538 Kentucky street in Bellingham Washington, El Pollo Feo has built a loyal following. Customers regularly drive from as far as Canada, Oak Harbor, and Seattle to order its famous burgers, often spurred by glowing online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations.
The food truck also actively participates in community events, from Bleedingham’s night market to local weddings and brewery-hosted markets. This year, the team plans to expand their reach with a second truck dedicated to events and a goal of visiting more locations across Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, and Island counties.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Josh envisions continued growth for El Pollo Feo while staying true to its roots. “We love the freedom of working in our trucks and the opportunities it gives us to connect with different communities,” he said. “In five years, I see us expanding our reach and menu while staying grounded in our mission to deliver great food and memorable experiences.”
Community-Centered and Customer-Focused
El Pollo Feo’s success lies not just in its exceptional food but also in its strong connection with the community. Josh and Autumn engage actively with customers on social media, responding to comments and reviews to foster a sense of community and gratitude. “The support from our community is what enables us to do what we love,” Josh noted.
With its vibrant menu, family-driven ethos, and commitment to excellence, El Pollo Feo isn’t just another food truck—it’s a culinary movement, proving that passion, creativity, and a dash of Salvadoran spirit can turn a dream into a local sensation.
This Bellingham Metro News article was sourced from an interview conducted by BMN Business reporter and editor Fernando Gonzalez. — You can find out more information about El Pollo feo by checking out their official Facebook page.
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