Huge "pub" located in Scottsdale Fashion Square. More of a full-service restaurant with a desire to be a pub. Lots of dark wood and low lighting, but it's really difficult to feel like you're in a pub when you see shoppers in mall with their Barney's & Neiman Marcus bags!! Lots of TVs, so you can imbibe while watching your favorite sports contest.
The fish tacos were very, very good. They came with a side of black beans, and what a tasty side they turned out to be! I don't think I've ever sung the praises of black beans, but these were out of this world! Turn s out the include some their IPA in the recipe which added a ton of flavor. The appetizer pork sliders were fine - nothing to write home about. The starter comes with two sliders, which was just right for a small tide-me-over-to dinner nosh. As for drinks, we just had Guinness and red wine - how can you miss with that?
IMHO, Thirsty Lion is o.k. Would I go back? Probably - but only if I was at the mall anyway; don't think I'd make a special trip to dine/drink there. The mall is a huge tourist draw, and my guess is they cater to them. I doubt there are a lot of locals that are regulars.