Pete's Fish & Chips

- 9309 W Van Buren St, Tolleson, AZ 85353

For generations of Arizona residents, Pete's Fish & Chips has been more than just a place to eat—it's a bona fide local institution and a taste of Valley history. Established in 1947, this family-owned chain offers a unique take on the seafood restaurant concept, blending the speed of fast food with the comfort of classic, deep-fried deliciousness. Operating primarily as a Fish & Chips and Fast Food restaurant, the Tolleson location delivers quick, satisfying meals that have earned a cult classic status across the Phoenix metropolitan area.

While traditional seafood restaurants often focus on elaborate, sit-down experiences, Pete's Fish & Chips specializes in providing "deep-fried deliciousness" served fresh and hot. The menu, while centered on seafood like fish and chips and scallops, also includes beloved comfort food items such as hearty burgers and chicken tenders, catering to all appetites and ensuring every member of a group finds something they enjoy. The establishment is famous for its simple, no-frills approach and its commitment to a unique flavor that distinguishes it from any other fast-casual chain.

The Tolleson location of Pete's Fish & Chips is a landmark for those in the West Valley, situated conveniently to serve local residents and commuters alike.

• Address: 9309 W Van Buren St, Tolleson, AZ 85353, USA
• Phone: (623) 936-3111 (Also listed as the mobile number, +1 623-936-3111)

Located on West Van Buren Street, the restaurant is easily accessible, a key feature for a fast-food and takeaway service in the expansive Phoenix metro area. The 85353 zip code and its proximity to major roads make it a convenient stop for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite. The location's accessibility is further enhanced by its comprehensive parking options, including a free parking lot and free street parking, easing the burden of finding a spot in a busy commercial area. This focus on easy access underscores its role as a quick-bite destination.

Pete's Fish & Chips provides a diverse array of services and amenities that cater to the needs of the modern, busy Arizona diner:

• Drive-through Service: A major convenience feature, allowing customers to quickly place and pick up their orders without having to leave their vehicle.
• Dine-in and Takeout: Offering both options for guests who want to enjoy the casual, historic atmosphere on-site or take their meal home.
• Outdoor Seating: Available for those who prefer to dine outside, and notably, the restaurant is one of the local spots that permits dogs outside, making it pet-friendly.
• Late-Night Food: A valuable service for the community, providing satisfying quick bites during late hours when many other dining options are closed.
• Full Accessibility: The location is committed to being welcoming to all patrons, with a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.
• Onsite Services: The availability of restrooms and free parking makes the stop comfortable and stress-free for families and groups.
• Kids' Menu: A dedicated menu for children, featuring items like Superburger, Chicken Nuggets, Hot Dog, and Corn Dog, makes it explicitly family-friendly.

The fame and longevity of Pete's Fish & Chips are attributable to several unique features and highlights, many of which contribute to its status as a local cult classic:

• Authentic Arizona Tradition: The business has been an institution since 1947, meaning a visit is an experience of local history and a chance to participate in a long-standing Phoenix tradition. The atmosphere is described as casual and historic.
• Pete's Signature Special Sauce: This is arguably the biggest highlight. The unique, spicy red concoction—which some describe as a unique take on cocktail sauce with a hint of heat—is the only sauce served with meals (ketchup is separate and tartar is not a standard inclusion) and is the secret ingredient that keeps customers coming back.
• Always Fresh and Hot: According to customer feedback, the food is consistently served "fresh and hot," which is essential for deep-fried items and a key indicator of quality control in a fast-food environment.
• Diverse Comfort Food Offerings: While known for fish, the menu is surprisingly broad, including the "Monsterburger" series (available up to a Triple Monsterburger), Scallops & Chips, and Chicken Tenders, ensuring a wide appeal for various cravings.
• Exceptional Value: Prices are generally affordable, positioning it as a perfect spot for quick bites and budget-conscious diners, including college students and large families.
• Popular Among Locals: The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, attracting a diverse crowd including college students, families, and groups.

It is important for new customers to note a few distinctive operational choices. Pete's often has a policy of being a cash-only business, though it accepts debit cards at this location. One customer described the "cash only business model" as a minor nuisance that "positively adds to the experience strangely enough," highlighting the old-school charm. Furthermore, while the food is hot and fresh, the nature of the fish pieces (often square and not traditional filets) and the separate charge for side sauces like tartar sauce are points of feedback that new customers should be aware of to manage expectations.

For quick access to this Tolleson institution, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: 9309 W Van Buren St, Tolleson, AZ 85353, USA
• Phone: (623) 936-3111

What is worth choosing at Pete's Fish & Chips is the full experience of an Arizona icon. You don't just go for a plate of food; you go for a taste of local history, served fast and fresh.

Pete’s is a perfect choice for the Arizona resident seeking a quick, comforting, and distinctive meal. The most compelling reason to visit is to try the legendary "Pete's Special Sauce." This unique condiment is the heart of the "local specialty" highlighted by the business and is the key to understanding its long-standing appeal. Ordering the Seafood Combo, which includes shrimp, scallops, and crabette nugget, or the classic Scallops & Chips allows a new customer to sample a variety of their deep-fried specialties. If you are not in the mood for seafood, the Monsterburger series offers a substantial, high-value alternative that is popular in its own right. Crucially, the commitment to serving food "always... fresh and hot" ensures that, despite its fast-food classification, the quality of the immediate serving experience is paramount. This, combined with the convenience of a drive-through and late-night hours, makes Pete's Fish & Chips an invaluable part of the Tolleson and West Phoenix dining landscape. It is recommended to embrace the quirky, nostalgic charm, bring your dog for the outdoor seating, and prepare for a simple, satisfying, and authentically Arizona fast-casual meal.

Pete's Fish & Chips

9309 W Van Buren St, Tolleson, AZ 85353, USA