Tucked away in a Glendale strip mall, Tim Finnegan’s Irish Restaurant And Pub is the kind of place that feels like a warm hug the moment you walk through the door. With a 4.6-star rating from over 1,400 reviews, this cozy neighborhood pub has quietly built a loyal following across the Valley.
From hand-poured Guinness pints to hearty Irish classics, there’s something here for everyone. If you’ve been sleeping on this gem at 17045 N 59th Ave, it’s time to finally pay it a visit.
The Atmosphere That Feels Like a Real Irish Pub
Walking into Tim Finnegan’s feels like stepping off a Phoenix freeway and landing somewhere in County Cork. The dark interiors, warm lighting, and wrap-around bar immediately set the mood for a relaxed evening out.
Booths, high tops, regular tables, and bar seating give the space a lived-in, welcoming feel.
Reviewers consistently rave about the cozy vibe, with one guest saying it looked exactly like what they’d envision a real Irish pub to be. The bar even features purse hooks and charging ports — small touches that make a big difference.
Whether you’re coming in solo, with a date, or with the whole crew, the layout makes it easy to find your perfect spot.
A Guinness Pour That Locals Say Is Unmatched
Ask any regular at Tim Finnegan’s what to order first, and they’ll point straight to the Guinness. The pour here is smooth, cold, and topped with that signature thick, creamy foam that true Guinness fans dream about.
One reviewer flat-out called it the best Guinness pour anywhere.
Here’s a fun bonus: you can upload a photo on their website and have it printed directly onto the foam of your pint. Guests have spotted leprechauns, clovers, and even custom images staring back at them from their glass.
It’s a quirky, memorable touch that elevates a simple drink into a full-on experience. For anyone who appreciates a proper pint, this is reason enough to make the drive to Glendale.
Clarny Chicken — The Dish Everyone’s Talking About
If there’s one dish that keeps people coming back to Tim Finnegan’s, it’s the Clarny Chicken. Guests mention it by name in reviews, and the owner proudly highlights it in responses.
That kind of word-of-mouth buzz doesn’t happen by accident — it happens when a dish is genuinely excellent.
The kitchen at Tim Finnegan’s has had the same chef for 17 years, and the food absolutely reflects that kind of consistency and care. Quality ingredients and well-developed flavors show up in every plate that comes out.
If you’re visiting for the first time and can’t decide what to order, let the Clarny Chicken be your starting point. Chances are, it’ll become your go-to order on every visit that follows.
Bangers and Mash Done the Right Way
Bangers and mash is one of those classic Irish comfort dishes that’s easy to get wrong and hard to get perfectly right. At Tim Finnegan’s, they get it right.
One five-star reviewer described the bangers and mash as absolutely incredible, putting it right up there with the cocktails as a highlight of the meal.
The combination of well-seasoned sausages and smooth, creamy mashed potatoes hits every comfort food note you’d want. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out, especially after a long Arizona workweek.
Pair it with a cold Guinness or a whiskey from their extensive Irish selection, and you’ve got yourself a proper pub meal. Straightforward, satisfying, and made with real care — that’s the Tim Finnegan’s way.
Shepherd’s Pasty That Stole the Show
One couple tried the Shepherd’s Pasty on their first visit to Tim Finnegan’s and left saying it was their absolute favorite of everything they ordered — and they ordered a lot. The lamb was cooked perfectly, and the crust was described as flaky and so good it was hard to stop eating.
A pasty is a traditional hand-held pastry filled with savory meat and vegetables, and it’s the kind of dish that separates a themed Irish restaurant from an authentic one. Tim Finnegan’s version clearly leans toward the authentic side.
It’s hearty, well-balanced, and packed with flavor without being overly salty or heavy. For anyone who loves exploring traditional Irish food beyond the usual fish and chips, the Shepherd’s Pasty is an absolute must-try on your first visit.
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie That Won Over a Food Network Crowd
After Tim Finnegan’s appeared on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, curious food lovers came in specifically to try the Lamb Shepherd’s Pie. One guest admitted they usually avoided shepherd’s pies at pubs because they tend to be greasy — but Tim Finnegan’s version completely changed their mind.
The pie was described as well-balanced, full of great flavors, and refreshingly free of excessive salt. That’s a hard balance to strike, and it speaks to the skill of a chef who’s been perfecting these recipes for nearly two decades.
Multiple reviewers ordered it and couldn’t stop raving. Whether you’re a longtime shepherd’s pie fan or a first-timer, this version is the benchmark.
It’s rich without being heavy, and satisfying without making you feel weighed down. A true standout on an already impressive menu.
Fish and Chips Worth Every Single Bite
Fish and chips is the backbone of any credible Irish pub menu, and Tim Finnegan’s takes it seriously. Guests describe the fish as flaky, crispy, and full of flavor — so good that some said they didn’t even need lemon or vinegar to dress it up.
The coleslaw on the side earns consistent praise too.
One birthday group had two members order the fish and chips, and both came back raving about it. Another solo diner called the fish excellent without any extras needed.
That kind of consistency across multiple visits and reviewers says a lot about the kitchen’s standards. The tartar sauce leans a little sweet, which some guests note, but for most people it’s a pleasant surprise.
If you’re a fish and chips purist, Tim Finnegan’s version will likely earn a permanent spot on your regular order list.
The Reuben Sandwich That Converts Non-Believers
Here’s the thing about Tim Finnegan’s Reuben — it comes with coleslaw instead of sauerkraut, and that one swap has turned Reuben skeptics into fans. One reviewer openly admitted that Reubens weren’t her thing, but after one bite of this version, she was completely sold.
Her husband’s came with scalloped potatoes, and those were a hit too.
The sandwich is described as huge, which means you’re absolutely getting your money’s worth. The coleslaw adds a creamy crunch that balances the richness of the corned beef in a way that feels fresh and thoughtful.
It’s a small creative twist on a classic that somehow makes the whole dish better. Whether you’re a longtime Reuben lover or someone who’s always been on the fence, this sandwich deserves a spot on your order.
Go big, and don’t skip the scalloped potatoes on the side.
Warm Bread Pudding That Ends Every Meal on a High Note
Dessert at Tim Finnegan’s isn’t an afterthought — it’s a full-on finale. The warm bread pudding has earned its own fan club among regulars, with multiple reviewers calling it out by name as a highlight of their visit.
One guest even came in disappointed by their entree and said the bread pudding saved the entire meal.
Described as moist, flavorful, and generously sauced, it hits every note a great dessert should. The warmth of the pudding paired with the richness of the sauce creates a comforting finish that lingers long after you’ve left the restaurant.
One reviewer mentioned it brought back memories of their mom’s homemade bread pudding — and that kind of nostalgia is the highest compliment a dish can receive. Save room for it.
You’ll be glad you did.
An Irish Whiskey Selection That Stands on Its Own
Beyond the Guinness, Tim Finnegan’s has built a reputation for carrying a genuinely impressive selection of Irish whiskeys. Reviewers highlight it as one of the standout features of the bar experience, and it’s the kind of collection that earns respect from whiskey enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
The bartenders know their way around the spirits menu, and whether you want something smooth and approachable or bold and complex, there’s something on the shelf for you. Pair a dram with a hearty meal or just settle in at the bar for a tasting session — either approach works perfectly here.
The baby beer shots also come highly recommended for those who want something fun and a little unexpected. At Tim Finnegan’s, the drink menu is treated with the same seriousness as the food, and it absolutely shows in every glass served.
Cocktails That Keep Up With the Kitchen
Not everyone at the table drinks beer, and Tim Finnegan’s cocktail menu makes sure those guests feel just as well taken care of. The Celtic Cucumber has been called refreshing and light — not too sweet, just easy and delicious.
The Old Fashioned gets described as perfectly balanced, which is exactly what you want from that classic drink.
Strawberry mojitos and other creative options round out a menu that goes well beyond the standard pub offerings. The bar team clearly puts thought into making drinks that complement the food rather than compete with it.
Whether you’re in the mood for something crisp and citrusy or deep and spirit-forward, there’s a cocktail here that’ll hit the spot. It’s the kind of bar program that makes you want to work your way through the entire menu, one visit at a time.
Friendly Staff Who Make You Feel Like a Regular
Service at Tim Finnegan’s gets mentioned in nearly every positive review, and not just as a footnote — guests go out of their way to name specific servers and praise their warmth. Lee, Jasmine, and Amber have all been called out by name for being kind, funny, and genuinely attentive.
That’s not a coincidence; it’s a culture.
The staff greets newcomers with big smiles and makes regulars feel like they never left. Even on busy nights, the team works hard to keep things moving and make sure everyone’s taken care of.
Yes, some reviews mention the occasional slow stretch, but the overwhelming consensus is that the people working at Tim Finnegan’s genuinely care about the experience they’re delivering. In a world of forgettable service, that human touch is one of the biggest reasons people keep coming back to this Glendale gem.
A Patio, Live Music, and Reasons to Stay Longer
When the Arizona weather cooperates, the patio at Tim Finnegan’s becomes one of the most pleasant places to spend an evening in Glendale. Guests love sitting outside, and one reviewer even joked they’d live there if they could.
The outdoor space adds a casual, breezy dimension to the pub experience that’s hard to replicate indoors.
Live music nights bring an extra layer of energy to the place. Irish folk performers have been spotted entertaining the crowd, adding authenticity to the whole experience.
One reviewer noted the volume was a bit much for the space, but still found the music charming enough to forgive. Between the patio, the performers, and the rotating specials, there’s always a reason to linger a little longer at Tim Finnegan’s.
Check their schedule before you go and plan for a full evening rather than just a quick stop.
How to Find Us
Finding Tim Finnegan’s is half the adventure. Located at 6506 S.
Rural Road in Tempe, Arizona, the pub sits in a spot that rewards those who seek it out rather than stumble onto it by accident. Plug the address into your GPS and keep an eye out for the warm, welcoming signage that feels like a friendly nod from an old friend.
Parking is available nearby, making the trip stress-free. They’re open seven days a week, so there’s rarely a bad time to stop in.
Follow them on social media for updates on live music nights and daily specials you won’t want to miss.
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