If you are familiar with the AMC hit series, "Breaking Bad," then you may know the name Gustavo Fring. He may not have been the hero of the show, but he sure knew his way around chicken, and of course meth. Fring was the drug kingpin behind the fast food franchise "Los Pollos Hermanos." Although Gus Fring (Giancarlo Esposito) met his demise at the end of season 4, his character will find new life on the "Breaking Bad" spinoff, "Better Call Saul," which serves as a prequel to the series about Walter White.
On the eve of "Better Call Saul's" season 3 premiere, AMC has implemented on of the most genius promotional gimmicks that I myself have ever seen, pop-up "Los Pollos Hermanos" restaurants. A few months ago the first promotional teaser was released for the new season and was essentially a commercial for the fast food chain featuring everyone's favorite chicken brother, Gus. This teaser sparked the pop-up locations which were opened in Los Angeles as well as at SXSW in Austin.
New York City's pop-up was opened after the success of the first two openings, and will only last Sunday, April 9 through Monday, April 10, which is also the date of the season 3 premiere. Plenty was able to be seen at the crowd magnetizing spot, from Saul's beat up yellow car, to a chicken mascot, excitement was in the air. Check out some photos and thoughts below!
1. Apparently 'Taco Bell' has some competition.
According to their sign, the fast food chain serves "breakfast burritos all day," and since Saul's car is parked there, could he have been in a morning rush to get his fill of the southwestern staple?
2. Is an opening an opening unless there's a mascot?
This fluffy bird was extremely interactive with the crowd by dancing, and throwing his sign around, this chicken brother would definitely make their boss, Gus, proud with their enthusiasm.
3. The question is, New York or New Mexico?
The interior of the temporary establishment is so similar to "Breaking Bad's" original digs that you can't help but feel like you've been transported.
4. Gus is 'so sure' you'll like the curly fries.
In the promo video's released advertising "Los Pollos Hermanos," Gus is plugging the establishment's new curly fries and guarantees your satisfaction. Unfortunately for the chicken fans this was the only thing on the menu alongside water, a choice of dipping sauce; creamy chipotle, spicy mustard, or mesquite barbeque. Of course the paper goods were adorned with the food chain's logo.
5. Workers at 'Los Pollos Hermanos' run a tight ship.
As the line outside began to grow, the staff of the pop-up worked to keep their guests as happy as possible, just as they would be expected to in the TV realm.
6. Its all in the details.
While Saul's car sat outside the restaurant's door, a closer look would reveal the genuine accuracy of the short lived location, note the New Mexico plate sporting a September 2002 inspection sticker.
7. Don't forget the reason the pop-up exists.
The event may have centered around Gus' business, but the promotion for "Better Call Saul's" third season was in no way lacking.