Tucson, AZ: The Alluring Charm of Eegee's

While traveling, I picked up a book about a man and his cat companion roaming through a video game-esque dungeon called Dungeon Master Carl. While reading this crazy, lighthearted, yet thrilling take on the dungeon crawl genre, a very odd thing caught my eye. Doubling as one of the dungeon's safe rooms was a local Arizona fast-food institution: Eegee's (double E G double E). It was such a bizarre yet oddly specific choice that I couldn’t help but wonder—why Eegee’s? And the answer was simple: Eegee's is amazing. It made me realize how popular, yet localized the fast-food chain is - a beloved food destination for locals throughout Tucson and Phoenix. Its the kind of place that you grow up going to all the time in your childhood.  The kind of place you only really find when visiting a certain city or region - yet it is all over with over a dozen locations throughout Tucson and Phoenix.  But to really appreciate its place in the book and in the hearts of Tucsonians, it’s worth taking a look at Eegee’s and how it became such a staple in Arizona’s food scene for over the past 50 years.

A frozen treat is born

Our journey begins not under the blazing sun of Tucson, Arizona, but rather in the midst of a bustling era of American history. The year was 1971, a time when dreams were as colorful as the tie-dye shirts everyone was sporting. Long before huge chains like Subway or Jersey Mikes took every street corner, two highschool buddies, Ed Irving and Bob Greenberg, had a cool idea: to sell frozen lemon drinks near schools and sporting events out of a vending truck they bought. They combined this frozen treat with the delight of East Coast "hoagies" and "submarine sandwiches" to bring a rolling food revolution to the sun-scorched desert of Arizona. And thus, Eegee's was born, its name an audible nod to the founders' initials ("E" from Ed and "G" from Greenberg). Fast forward to today, and Eegee's has become something of a Tucson institution.

This unassuming fast-food joint is as much a part of the Tucson landscape as the towering cacti in the majestic Saguaro National Park. Pop into any of the numerous locations across the city, and you'll find a buzzing atmosphere full of locals and tourists alike, all eager to get their hands on the quick, delicious, and some might even say, legendary grub.

The "Eegee"

Now, you might be wondering, what sets Eegee's apart? Sure, they serve sandwiches, but it's their frozen fruit drink that's the real showstopper. Known simply as an "Eegee", this icy concoction is a blend of real fruit and smooth, silky Italian shaved ice, all served in a styrofoam cup. It might sound strange to describe shaved ice as silky, but again, thats what makes it an "Eegee."

It's the perfect antidote to the Arizona heat, a sweet symphony of flavor wrapped in an insulated cup that leaves your taste buds dancing and your body cool. Each month features a different flavor, adding an element of surprise to the menu. Its always good to check them out with amazing combinations like: Watermelon, Orange Dream, Lucky Lime Mango Tango, Peach N' Berry, Galactic Grape, Banana Blush, and Cherry Cider. But if you're a purist, don't worry—lemon, strawberry, and pina colada are always available.

A quick bite to eat

Eegee’s isn’t just about their signature frozen drinks—it’s also a haven for sandwich lovers and snack enthusiasts alike. Their menu boasts an irresistible lineup of mouthwatering grinders (that’s East Coast lingo for sandwiches, folks), crisp salads, and perfectly golden crinkle-cut french fries. Whether you're craving the bold, savory flavors of a classic salami grinder stacked high with premium meats and fresh toppings or looking to indulge in something a little extra, Eegee’s has you covered.

And speaking of indulgence, let’s talk about the fan-favorite ranch fries. Yeah, we said ranch fries. This isn’t your average side of fries with a drizzle of dressing—it’s a full-on flavor experience. The crispy, crinkle-cut fries provide the perfect crunch, while a generous helping of cool, tangy ranch adds a creamy, zesty twist that keeps customers coming back for more. It’s the kind of side dish that makes you forget ketchup even exists.

Every item on the menu is made to order, ensuring that every bite is fresh, flavorful, and just the way you like it. So whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, fueling up for an afternoon adventure, or just treating yourself to something delicious, Eegee’s delivers a satisfying meal every time.

A bit of old-school Tucson 

Eegee's is more than just a fast-food joint; it's a piece of Tucson's heart and history. Walking into an Eegee's, you're met with a casual, laid-back vibe. The walls are adorned with throwback photos, hinting at the rich history of the place. It's a spot where locals gather for a quick bite, families come for a no-fuss dinner, and tourists stop by to experience a true Tucson tradition. A trip to Tucson wouldn't be complete without a visit to Eegee's. So, next time you find yourself in this desert city, make a beeline for this charming eatery. Dine under an unforgettable Arizona sunset, an Eegee in hand, and savor the taste of Tucson's history. It's a gastronomic journey that promises to be as refreshing and satisfying as the cool breeze that sweeps across the desert at twilight.