 Okura, originally a native of Wilmington, California, held a number of managerial positions in fast food restaurants in the area for Burger King and Del Taco in the '70s and '80s.While serving as the manager for a Del Taco in Carson, California in 1981, an El Pollo Loco opened opposite of his restaurant.He was impressed by the chain's char-broiled chicken and the simplicity of its operations.