Triple Net Investment Group

Pollo Tropical

Interested in selling your Pollo Tropical NNN property or Pollo Tropical ground lease property and wondering what you can get for it in today’s changing market?

Contact us for a complimentary broker opinion of value for your off-market Pollo Tropical NNN property for sale or Pollo Tropical ground lease property for investment, specifically tailored to support your 1031 exchange requirements. This valuable assessment will provide you with the clarity needed to make informed decisions regarding the sale of your Pollo Tropical NNN property or the inclusion of a Pollo Tropical ground lease property in your investment portfolio. As specialists in working with 1031 exchange buyers seeking off-market Pollo Tropical properties, we are dedicated to delivering competitive offers with reduced fees to help you maximize your investment returns.

Number of locations

As of 2024, Pollo Tropical operates approximately 140–150 locations.

  • The vast majority of stores are located in Florida

  • Additional franchised locations operate in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America

  • A small number of licensed locations exist on college campuses and hospitals

Revenue and income

Pollo Tropical is privately held, and standalone revenue and net income figures are not publicly disclosed.

  • The brand previously operated under Fiesta Restaurant Group, which reported $661 million in total company revenue in 2019 (including other brands)

  • Since 2023, Pollo Tropical has been owned by Authentic Restaurant Brands, following a private acquisition.

Future plans

Pollo Tropical is focused on measured expansion and brand optimization, including:

  • Selective new store openings, primarily in Florida

  • Strengthening its franchise footprint in international markets

  • Continued investment in digital ordering, delivery platforms, and menu innovation, including Caribbean-inspired and grilled offerings.

Corporate vs. franchise

Pollo Tropical is predominantly corporate-owned:

  • ~75–80% of locations are company-owned

  • ~20–25% are franchised or licensed, primarily outside the mainland U.S.

  • Franchised locations are concentrated in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and Latin America

  • U.S. expansion is largely corporate-driven.

Additional Information – Pollo Tropical Properties

  • Founded in 1988 in Miami, Florida by brothers Larry and Stuart Harris

  • The brand specializes in Latin-Caribbean (Floribbean) cuisine, best known for its mojo-marinated, flame-grilled chicken

  • Menu highlights include grilled chicken, black beans, yellow rice, plantains, yuca, and citrus-based sauces

  • Pollo Tropical is privately owned and headquartered in Miami-Dade County, Florida

  • The company emphasizes fresh, made-to-order food with no pre-cooked or microwaved core items.

Pollo Tropical History

Pollo Tropical was founded in 1988 in Miami, Florida, by brothers Larry and Stuart Harris, who sought to bring bold Latin-Caribbean flavors to the fast-casual restaurant market. Inspired by the diverse culinary culture of South Florida, the brand introduced mojo-marinated, flame-grilled chicken served with fresh, tropical-inspired sides.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Pollo Tropical expanded rapidly across Florida and select U.S. markets, gaining popularity for its made-to-order meals and fresh ingredients. The company later became part of Fiesta Restaurant Group, which supported its operational growth and brand development.

After streamlining operations and refocusing on core markets, Pollo Tropical transitioned to private ownership in 2023. Today, the brand maintains a strong presence in Florida and international markets, continuing to emphasize authentic flavors, quality preparation, and digital innovation while evolving to meet modern consumer preferences.

Why Invest in a Ground Lease and NNN Lease of Pollo Tropical?

Investing in Pollo Tropical’s ground lease and triple net (NNN) lease properties offers several compelling advantages for net-lease investors:

1) Pollo Tropical NNN Property Investment: Stable income

Pollo Tropical is a well-established fast-casual restaurant brand with a strong footprint, particularly in Florida. Its ground lease and NNN structures provide steady, predictable rental income supported by consistent customer demand.

2) Pollo Tropical NNN Property Investment: Established tenant

With decades of operating history and strong brand recognition in its core markets, Pollo Tropical represents a reliable single-tenant occupant, reducing vacancy risk and supporting long-term lease stability.

3) Pollo Tropical NNN Property Investment: Low management responsibility

Under ground lease and triple net lease agreements, the tenant is responsible for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance, allowing investors to enjoy passive ownership with minimal landlord involvement.

4) Pollo Tropical NNN Property Investment: Favorable lease terms

Pollo Tropical NNN leases often feature long initial lease terms with multiple renewal options and contractual rent escalations, offering predictable income growth over time.

5) Pollo Tropical NNN Property Investment: Real estate value

Pollo Tropical locations are typically positioned along high-traffic retail corridors and densely populated trade areas, supporting long-term real estate value retention and potential appreciation.

Pros and Cons of Pollo Tropical Ground Lease and NNN Lease Investment

Pros:

  1. Pollo Tropical offers stable rental income supported by a long-established fast-casual restaurant brand.

  2. The tenant’s brand recognition and operating history help reduce vacancy and lease default risk.

  3. Ground lease and NNN structures minimize landlord responsibilities for maintenance, taxes, and insurance.

  4. Long-term lease agreements provide predictable income with potential for periodic rent increases.

Cons:

  1. Income continuity depends on Pollo Tropical’s decision to renew the lease at expiration.

  2. The investment performance is directly tied to the tenant’s operational success.

  3. Geographic concentration in core markets may increase exposure to regional economic shifts.

  4. Landlords have limited control over property operations and redevelopment decisions.

  5. Broader economic conditions and real estate market fluctuations can impact property value.

Thorough due diligence and careful evaluation of location quality, lease structure, tenant strength, and long-term investment objectives are essential. Consulting experienced real estate professionals and financial advisors can help ensure alignment with your risk tolerance and return expectations.

Scroll to Top