Desert Ridge Marketplace will welcome the ever-popular Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill later this year. Focused on providing an eclectic variety of cuisine, Thirsty Lion will be located on the southwest side of The District. This will be the 10th restaurant to join Desert Ridge Marketplace since the shopping center completed a $22 million transformation in 2017.
“Desert Ridge Marketplace continues to establish itself as the place to be in the North Valley, evidence of how we chose where to open the fourth Arizona location,” said John Plew, Owner of Thirsty Lion. “We know our bold flavors and creative cocktail program will resonate with the Desert Ridge community, and we look forward to showing them what Thirsty Lion offers.”
The 6,500 square-foot restaurant will boast a spacious dining room, plus a large outdoor bar with a fire pit and ample seating offering guests another comfortable and unique gathering place. Thirsty Lion serves a signature menu comprised of eclectic cuisines, with an emphasis on local ingredients and bold flavors. The “seasonal fresh sheets” will focus on featuring unique ingredients based on the time of year, including fresh seafood, quality meats and local vegetables and fruits. The bar will feature a large selection of craft beers on tap, many of which are local to the Valley. The gastropub also features unique craft cocktails that utilize combinations of fresh fruit purees, juices and premium liquors, as well as at least 20 different wines by the glass.
“Thirsty Lion will create an energetic and elevated dining experience at Desert Ridge Marketplace,” said Jenny Cushing, vice president of leasing at Vestar. “With extensive culinary and beverage options, we know Thirsty Lion will truly provide something for everyone in the North Valley.”
In February 2017, Desert Ridge Marketplace set out to bring new, elevated entertainment experiences to the North Valley—part of its mission to grow with the surrounding community. Desert Ridge Marketplace offers unique experiences and events throughout the year such as Foam Fundays (June 18, July 2 and July 16) and Movies in the Courtyard (Every other Thursday in the Barnes & Noble Courtyard).
