Thanks to some prodding from KNX radio, the L.A. County Economic Development Corp. has crunched the latest unemployment figures and states that a true picture of those out of work in L.A. County is 20 percent — not the “mere” 10.5 percent we'd been told. Now comes even more staggering news from the Orange County Register (sent via and Eater and Curbed L.A.): Three major Mexican fast-food/casual dining chains based in the O.C. are staring into the financial abyss. El Pollo Loco, Del Taco and Real Mex Restaurants (comprising El Torito, El Torito Grill, Chevys and Acapulco) are all in danger of defaulting on their debts. When will this madness end? On the other hand, if these chains do go out of business it'll force more of us to visit our local mom and pop variety of Mexican restaurants — which at least serve margaritas.

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