Thirsty Lion — Restaurant in Glendale

**DO NOT GO UNTIL THERE'S CHANGE

Before anything, I was in the restaurant industry and basing my experience at the "thirsty lion" on my professional experience and expectations of the type of restaurant they are trying to promote. I am very optimistic and always focused on the positives and not the negatives, but this was something else.

-Started with the hostess telling us it was a 20 minute wait when in actuality we waited 45 minutes. Ok, busy night we get it.

Got seated and they gave us cold water in a cool looking trendy milk style glass. Turns out the tap water was some nasty tasting pipe water with an after taste. I grew up in the 90's drinking hose water, this was some corroded tasting water. We later asked for some bottled water and the waitress brought us another glass of faucet water. So much for listening skills.

-Ordered apps and entrees together which looked and read promising on the menu. We waited another 50 minutes before the apps got out and entrees shortly after with no time to finish apps.

California roll: dry, stale which we figured it was prepped and not done to order. All good, but if that's the case why not bring it out right away since the item was for our daughter which most restaurant staff have the common sense to say "would you like the kids food to come out first?"

Wings: cold and dry. We noticed for approximately 20 minutes the food piling up under the heat lamp. I can for sure say this was the cause of the death of the wings.

Ahi poke stack: common theme of dry old rice. The lady who brought it to us accidently dropped the flavorless tuna as she placed it at an angle on the table. Everyone makes mistakes right? Then why no sense of urgency or apologetic but rather staring at my wife like if she did something wrong? I picked up the pieces off the table and told her "I got it. "

Dry cherry bbq pork: again promising but was the disappointment of the night. All it is, is very, very dry pork pieces with store bought bbq sauce and cherries tossed in. Mashed potatoes had no flavor which says a lot about the cooks skills. What pissed me off was this was recommended by our waitress.

-Korean pork over kimchee fried rice: oh wait, we never got this cause they ran out. I've been there ran out of a dish, but why wait almost 45 minutes to tell us they ran out? Didn't charge us for it but was definitely the cherry on top of bad food and service.

Service: being in the industry, I always tip 20% because I know the struggle, which we did. With that being said, there was no communication and we sensed she knew we weren't happy with the service but never asked a manager to check in on us.

Again, this is being rated as what this restaurant is portraying itself to be as a trendy, hip night spot. If a manager responds to this and asks why not say something to a manager so they can correct mistakes right there and then? in all honesty this was beyond any managers control. This restaurant needs new managerial staff or re- training from the top down.

I recognize great food and great service but I'm no snob. I hope a higher up sees this and makes changes to better this restaurant as it did show potential with a great location. I hope this restaurant makes changes to stay open but don't be surprised if no change came out of this and there's a new restaurant in it's place on a couple years. It's way over priced for our...

The Thirsty Lion Gastropub in Glendale, Arizona, is an absolute standout! From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re welcomed with a warm and genuine smile by the ever-gracious Mr. Nick Chester. His unparalleled hospitality and attention to detail create the perfect foundation for an unforgettable experience, making you feel like a truly valued guest.

The atmosphere is a perfect blend of energy and comfort. With its sleek yet welcoming decor, softly dimmed lighting, and open layout, it’s the ideal spot for any occasion—whether you’re meeting friends for a casual dinner or grabbing pre-event drinks. Its unbeatable location, just steps away from State Farm Stadium, makes it a prime destination for fans headed to a Cardinals game or a big concert.

The menu is a culinary masterpiece, offering something for everyone. From shareable appetizers and artisan flatbreads to fresh salads, hearty kitchen specialties, and handcrafted sandwiches, each dish is crafted with care. Their gourmet 1/2-pound burgers are a must-try, perfectly complemented by an extensive drink selection. Whether you’re indulging in craft cocktails, featured wines, local draft beers, or even refreshing non-alcoholic options, there’s something to suit every palate.

What truly elevates the experience is the exceptional service. The staff’s attentiveness, professionalism, and genuine care shine through, ensuring every detail is just right. Their friendly demeanor and seamless execution make it clear that they take great pride in creating a remarkable dining experience.

The Thirsty Lion is a true gem in Glendale. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this gastropub delivers the perfect mix of fantastic food, inviting ambiance, prime location, and top-notch hospitality. It’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again! Thank you,...

My husband and I sat at the bar for drinks and quick meal before the Hans Zimmer show. We ordered the ahi poke appetizer and shrimp tacos. As we waited, we watched 2 other couples get sat down 15-20 minutes after us get their food first (a well done steak, nonetheless)

Was told there was no dough to make a flat bread, but could see there was a few waiting at the kitchen for 10-15 min. After 45 minutes of waiting, and no update on our ahi poke app or tacos, we had to leave as we were pressed for time to attend a local show.

We were told by the hostess she would give us a gift card, she was apologetic and understanding. We had to wait 10 minutes to speak with the only manager on staff (2 events nearby) After apologizing and explaining the kitchen was running behind, I asked why would a full cooked steak be taken to the couple next to us(sat down 20 min later) be served 30 min before an ahi appetizer. No real answer. Just an offer that they could comp the 2 meals..which the bartender already comped.

The manager and hostess expressed that they hoped we'd come back. I ask about the promised gift card to be told that our food was ready if we wanted to take it to go. At this point, it was an hour after we ordered it. Sadly, we declined the to go food as we cannot take food into the venue.

Please don't over promise and under deliver. Set the right expectation. Someone who ordered a cold appetizer should not wait 45 minutes while another person who showed up 15 min later orders a well done steak and has it come fresh. The empty promises and fake apologies are not okay. We will...