Hey, didn’t we just see that same restaurant…? It seems like I can’t go for a drive in any direction without running into Chili/Applebee/Denny’s, etc. If kitsch teaches us anything, commodification devalues the original. But no truth ever remains truthful in every circumstance and some Valley chains are growing in size without losing that unique spirit… here are some of our favorites.
Pita Jungle is one of those places that has gone beyond its pre-hipster origins in 1994 to become a Valley Mecca for the alternative crowd. Their following is expanding to include the Arizona’s general populous. With a resident dietician on staff, Pita Jungle is committed to bringing dishes that are not only delicious but healthy as well. I originally started my relationship with Pita Jungle back in my vegetarian days at their Tempe location on Apache and they’ve seen me through the vegan years to my carnivorous return and, most recently, to the more restrictive diets of my early 30s.
Crispy white fish, oysters, shrimp, and scallops are all fried to golden perfection. If you’re taste doesn’t extend to oceanic creatures try the 1/3 monster burger or one of the other landlubber options. This is a no-frills establishment. While offering visitors their super secret special sauce (something akin to cocktail sauce, methinks), Pete’s rejects the regular fish-n-chips traditions of tartar sauce and lemons.
With eight Valley locations, find one near you next time you need a greasy spoon fix or a quick, cheap bite and don’t want to support some nasty fast-food chain. Named the Best Lunch Under $7 by the East Valley Tribune, Pete’s Fish and Chips proves both delicious and economic. Remember to bring cash though because plastic has no place here.
Others prefer Two Hippies Pizzeria on 7th Ave. Going far beyond run-of-the-mill pizza selections, Two Hippies ventures into creations that could have only been created under the influence of the munchies or pregnancy cravings like their Italian Hot Dog Pizza on which you will find caramelized peppers, onions, fries, cheese, and, yes, hot dogs. Other pie options include the Mexican, Greek, BLT, Deli (which also has fries on top), and Chicken Ranch pizza.
For the early morning hours, Two Hippies Breakfast Joint is the place to be. Aside from an array of traditional wake-up foods, the menu’s highlight is the breakfast bowls. For a mere $6, a sizable serving of eggs and potatoes gets mixed in with up to 6 ingredients of your choice. The side of toast that accompanies the breakfast bowls is a question of how much can you possibly eat first thing in the day… well, breakfast is the most important meal.
These are just a few of the Two Hippies eateries found around the Valley. See what your neighborhood has to offer… a beach house, burger joint, taco shop, or something else? Word on the street is that more Two Hippies incarnations are currently in the works for the Valley. Bring cash just in case to these joints, some don't take cards.
Whatever you’re in the mood for, there is likely a Two Hippies establishment created to meet your dining needs. Whether you want a cheeseburger or a cheeseburger pizza, Two Hippies has the spot.
Now my personal favorite is Two Hippies Magic Mushroom Burger on Indian School in Phoenix. In fact, it’s a YabYum staff favorite for an inexpensive meal before a show. For only $5, customers can get a burger, fries, and a drink.
The “chain” has expanded throughout the Valley and is now offering Tucson and Flagstaff diners the opportunity to join the fan club. Their first California eatery opened in Pasadena but no worries… Pita Jungle belongs to us first and foremost.
Start with the renowned hummus and venture throughout the menu. Occasionally exotic and ever nutritional, Pita Jungle’s extensive offerings are certain to have something to please any palette.
Pete’s Fish and Chips has been serving seafood delights to desert locals since it opened in 1947. Founder Pete Grant had a heck of a life story that shaped the history of the establishment now run by two of Pete’s daughters and serving its fourth generation of Arizona residents.
