Desert Shark (Formerly LemonShark) Has Officially Opened

What started as LemonShark Poke back in 2019 has officially transformed into Desert Shark, a locally owned and operated restaurant that’s bringing a fresh perspective on poke and more.

Back in August of 2024, we had a sneak peek of the menu but now it’s officially in full swing — open daily from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

The restaurant, located at 2501 E. Grant Rd., is now under the ownership of Fabian Moreno, who is debuting his first venture as a restaurateur.

After months of reimagining the menu, design, and branding, Moreno has brought his vision to life with a concept that still holds a sense of familiarity for fans of LemonShark.

You’ll still find your favorite Build-Your-Own-Poke bowls, but Moreno has also introduced new signature items like the Desert Heatwave, featuring sushi rice, crispy wontons, ahi, shrimp, mango, takis, and his signature Shark Bite sauce.

“Having the option to mix in seasonal ingredients and experiment with new flavors is what excites me the most,” said Moreno. “While keeping the core poke experience intact, we’re adding our own desert-inspired twist.”

Beyond poke, the menu offers bento boxes, sushi rolls, miso soup, potstickers, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly options also make it a welcoming spot for those with dietary restrictions.

Folks can also expect rotating seasonal specials throughout the year, a move Moreno hopes will keep customers engaged and excited to try something new.

As mentioned earlier, the new concept is open daily from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (dine-in and delivery).

Desert Shark is located at 2501 E. Grant Rd. For more information and to keep up with the latest, follow Desert Shark on Instagram.