What Happened When She Found Out Eegee's Filed for Bankruptcy

I immediately called my daughter when I read the news: the treasured sub and slushie shop, Eegee's restaurant, is filing for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection.

As a recent graduate from the University of Arizona, the popular Tucson sandwich and frozen beverage chain was like the third roommate in her apartment.

One of the iconic subs from Eegee's. // Photo courtesy Amber Davidson //Created with Canva

She and her tight-knit group of friends used any excuse to "go get an Eegee's." The comfort food was their study partner, celebration food, and cooling station in the heat of summer.

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When I shared the story, she literally gasped, "Oh, no! We love Eegee's!"

She started listing the friends in her group who would be devastated if they could no longer get their beloved subs and slushies.

A typical meal at Eegee's. // Photo courtesy Amber Davidson // Created with Canva

"Joseph is going to be so sad if they close!" she told me. Her best friend was born and raised in Tucson, and like many natives of the Old Pueblo, he has lifelong memories related to the unique fare.

"Well, don't write them off just yet," I consoled, "this is just a first step so the chain can get its feet back under it."

Frozen Lemonade & Food Trucks: How Eegee's Began

Eegee's is a beloved Tucson institution. The chain has grown to 30 locations across Tucson, Phoenix, and Casa Grande. It began in 1971 as a food truck selling frozen lemon drinks at local schools and events and quickly grew into a restaurant chain.

This is what we mean when we say, "Let's go get an Eegee's!" // Photo courtesy Amber Davidson // Created with Canva

They've been selling their iconic frozen fruit drinks and delicious subs ever since.

According to Wikipedia, Eegee's was founded by Ed Irving and Bob Greenberg, the name "Eegee's" cleverly combines the initials of their names.

Why Is Eegee's Filing for Chapter 11?

According to KOLD.com, Eegee's recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Like many businesses in recent years, the chain points to ongoing financial challenges, but the trouble got worse during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A serious drop in foot traffic during the shutdown, combined with the recent dizzying trend of rising costs and inflation, has severely strained the company's finances.

READ: Subway Is Suddenly Closing Locations. How Many in Arizona?

As part of the restructuring process, Eegee's closed five locations: four in Tucson and one in Phoenix.

A typical Eegee's meal. Subs, crinkle-cut fries, and Eegee's signature slushies! // Photo courtesy Amber Davidson //Created with Canva

Eegee's: Part of the Fabric of Tucson's Culinary Landscape

Eegee's is experiencing setbacks, but they plan to remain a cherished part of Tucson's culinary landscape.

When I read the news, I immediately dispatched my daughter to their nearest Eegee's. I promised to buy her dinner in exchange for photos so we could share the love of one of her favorite Tucson haunts.

My daughter, Amber (left), and her roommate, Kayli. The girls jumped at the chance to get dinner at Eegee's! // Photo courtesy Amber Davidson // Created with Canva

She and her friend Kayli were more than happy to help. It didn't take much convincing, and they were more than happy to "go get an Eegee's"!

They're not alone. Tucson residents and others are hoping for the best for the beloved chain. Eegee's is more than just a restaurant; it's a Tucson tradition.

Photos: Courtesy Amber Davidson