Illegal Pete's Mexican restaurant coming to Tempe; Tucson opening marred by protests

Illegal Pete’s, a Colorado-based chain of Mexican restaurants that has faced criticism for its name, is coming to Mill Avenue in Tempe.

The fast-casual spot will open its first Valley location in the space formerly occupied by My Big Fat Greek Restaurant. The nearly 3,700-square-foot eatery is slated to open in time for Arizona State University's fall 2018 semester.

This is the chain's second branch in Arizona. The first opening came with backlash and protests.

When the restaurant came to Tucson in 2015, a group of Hispanic students at the University of Arizona spoke out, saying the name “Illegal Pete’s” was offensive to the community.

Critics argued the use of “illegal” in the name is racist and insulting to undocumented immigrants and other people of color.

Owner Pete Turner, who opened the chain in 1995, defended the name. He said it is in reference to the counter-cultural atmosphere he wanted to create with the restaurant, and to his father, also named Pete, a “good-natured hell raiser.”

2,000 signatures in a week

The group of UA students started a petition against Turner that collected nearly 2,000 signatures in a week. They also rallied in protest on the night of the restaurant’s opening, near campus, more than two years ago.

And that wasn’t the only instance of backlash.

Before opening the newest Illegal Pete’s location in Boulder, Colorado, in 2014, Turner was criticized by local residents wanting him to change the restaurant’s name.

The owner maintains the name was never intended to be racial.

College-town appeal

Tempe will be the chain's 10th location, which are concentrated in Boulder and Denver. The restaurant's menu, modeled after Mexican food from San Francisco’s Mission District, includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, late-night service and happy hour from 3 to 8 p.m. daily.

In addition to being a restaurant and bar, Illegal Pete’s is a music venue and hangout spot, making it ideal for a college town. The city owns the property, and the renovated space will feature an indoor/outdoor stage area and more patio seating, according to a news release. Turner adds:

“We’ve wanted to come to Tempe for a few years.We’re so excited to be part of this community in the heart of Mill Ave., sharing the courtyard with the original Harkins (Theatre).”

Details: Opening at 525 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, illegalpetes.com.

MORE MEXICAN RESTAURANTS

Craving tapas or Mexican food? Check out these two brand-new restaurants

Mexican food and bowling: Casa Amigos, Skylanes open in downtown Scottsdale

10 Mexican restaurants in Arizona known for their classic culinary history