Eegee's, the popular fast-food chain in Tucson with a cult-like following, is in the midst of an expansion and it appears that expansion includes a return to Phoenix.
Earlier this week, eegee's announced that it would open seven more restaurants in the Tucson area in 2021, including at least one that would be made out of shipping containers, a new design for the restaurant chain.
“The shipping container prototype has been in the works all year, and we’re very excited to unveil it this fall,” CEO Ron Petty said in a statement. “The look and feel of eegee’s has evolved, but the menu will continue to feature our classic favorites.”
That location is expected to open in January at The Landing on Irvington Road shopping center, a news release said. Specific locations for the other six restaurants were not provided.
But, what about Phoenix?
While there has been no official announcement from eegee's, the fast-food concept has bought Facebook ads teasing a "secret" in Phoenix and has submitted initial documents to open at least three restaurants in the Valley.
A spokesperson was unable to confirm any plans for Phoenix, but said the chain did have locations in the Valley back in the 1980s.
"Hey Phoenix, we have a secret to tell you," one recent sponsored Facebook post read, followed by a photo featuring a trio of eegee's signature frozen drinks.
In Gilbert, eegee's has submitted documents requesting to modify the exterior and to add a canopy over the drive-thru of an old Arby's restaurant near Val Vista Drive and Baseline Road, according to Jennifer Harrison, deputy director of the Office of Digital Government for the Town of Gilbert.
In Mesa, eegee's has submitted a pre-submittal application, the first step in the development and planning process, to open a restaurant near the U.S. 60 and Crimson Road, according to the economic department's website.
Over in Phoenix, eegee's had a pre-application meeting regarding a location near 35th and Peoria avenues, according to the City of Phoenix, but has not yet filed further documents.
No applications or documents have been submitted in Chandler, Scottsdale, or Tempe.
The menu at eegee's features sandwiches, grinders, salads, hot dogs, and seasoned fries, as well as pretzels and their signature slushies. There are at least 24 locations in Tucson, according to the online menu.
