If you are from Tucson and are craving a hot dog, you're probably thinking about Sonoran Style Hot Dogs from the likes of BK and El Guero Canelo. You probably think a good ol' fashioned chili dog does'nt exist in this town. Well my friends, I bring you great news! Pat's is here to fill the void!
Pat's isn't exactly new to Tucson, their sign bragging that they've been serving Tucson for over 30 years! When we went, we both ordered a chili dog, and a chili burger, both with the HOT chili. We also split a box of fries.
Let's start with the pros. The chili is FANTASTIC! Just a little bit of a kick that I can't see being too spicy for anybody. I highly recommend going with the hot chili. The fries are just as good! They are fresh cut and left to you to salt for yourself! I personally loved them plain, as will anybody who is a connoisseur of fried spuds. Oh and don't forget about the price! This place gives you a lot for a very modest price!
Unfortunately every place has its cons, and Pat's has its share. The hamburgers are tiny, comparable in size to what you would get off the dollar menu at Mcdonald's. The chili was the only saving grace for the burger. They also do use cheap hot dogs, but in my opinion "A hot dog is a fricken hot dog!" It certainly didn't taste bad smothered in chili! Last, and the ultimately most tragic (in my opinion anyway), no free refills!
They do have a different type of burger on the menu, I believe it's called "Pat's Big Burger." Next time I go I plan on giving it a shot and seeing if they pull out a better quality hamburger. Consider getting that if you're REALLY in the mood for a chili burger.
Other reviewers have commented on the restaurant as being filthy. When you walk up to the window, you have an entirely unobstructed view of their kitchen. I took a very long look after reading some of the reviews here, and found nothing to discourage me from ordering. It actually looked quite clean!
My recommendations for your first visit are pretty simple. Get a couple chili dogs and a box of fries! A box fed the two of us pretty comfortably. I also feel safe in suggesting you order their chili cheese fries. They only accept cash, so come prepared. Their is an ATM inside the dining area, but I doubt you want the 2 dollar charge. Their dining room is a bit of a joke, so take a look before ordering "for here." I personally didn't have a problem with it. Consider going before dark, it is in a pretty "ghetto" neighborhood. Finally, DO NOT bring your vegetarian friends here, they'll probably hate you forever.
Overall, I was quite impressed. I would almost give it five stars, but the super cheap ingredients drop it to four. I will certainly go back anytime I'm in the mood for some good, unhealthy, and cheap food! Happy dining! read more