Thirsty Lion Celebrates 15 Years at Tempe Marketplace as Arizona Drives Growth
By Lisa Padilla | Arizona Health & Living
Thirsty Lion is celebrating 15 years at Tempe Marketplace, marking a milestone for the restaurant brand that has expanded its presence across the Valley since opening its first Arizona location in November 2011.
The Tempe restaurant was the third location for Portland-based Concept Entertainment Group, following two restaurants in Oregon. Today, Thirsty Lion has five Valley locations, serving guests in Tempe, Desert Ridge, Chandler, Gilbert and Glendale.
The anniversary highlights the company’s continued presence in Arizona and the state’s role in its expansion.
Why Arizona Became a Key Growth Market
Arizona was identified as an important market for the company’s growth because of its business climate, population growth and economic development.
In 2015, Thirsty Lion moved its headquarters from Portland to Old Town Scottsdale, purchasing property near Indian School Road and Miller Road.
The Phoenix area’s central location has supported the company’s continued expansion and proved to be a good fit for its business and employees.
The move established deeper roots in Arizona as the company continued to develop its presence across the greater Phoenix area.
A Dining Experience Built Around Variety
Thirsty Lion describes its concept as upscale casual dining that brings together multicultural cuisine, scratch-kitchen recipes, craft cocktails and genuine hospitality.
The restaurant offers lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, daily happy hour, group dining and catering, providing options for everything from casual meals to gatherings and celebrations.
The Tempe location also features 13 flat-screen televisions, adding a sports-viewing element to its lively dining atmosphere.
With a diverse menu and multiple dining options, the restaurant aims to accommodate guests on different occasions throughout the week.
Fifteen Years in the Valley
Since opening at Tempe Marketplace in November 2011, Thirsty Lion has grown from its first Arizona location into a five-location Valley presence. Its headquarters move to Scottsdale further reflects the importance of Arizona to the company’s development.
The 15-year milestone offers an opportunity to recognize the restaurant’s history in Tempe and its continued presence in the greater Phoenix dining scene.
As the Valley grows and attracts new residents and businesses, established restaurants remain part of the region’s evolving dining landscape, serving as gathering places for people across the community.
For more information about Thirsty Lion, its menu and restaurant locations, visit Thirsty Lion’s official website.
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