How to Order Seafood at Lakeside at Desert Shores in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its dazzling casinos, world-class entertainment, and culinary innovation. Yet beyond the neon lights and high-stakes tables lies a quieter, more refined dining experience—especially at Lakeside at Desert Shores. Nestled in the serene Desert Shores community, this waterfront restaurant offers an unexpected gem for seafood lovers: fresh, locally sourced, and expertly prepared ocean delicacies in the heart of the Mojave Desert. While it may seem counterintuitive to find exceptional seafood in a landlocked city, Lakeside has mastered the art of bringing the sea to the desert through meticulous sourcing, skilled preparation, and an intuitive dining experience.

Ordering seafood at Lakeside at Desert Shores is more than simply selecting a dish from a menu—it’s an art that combines understanding seasonal availability, knowing how to communicate dietary preferences, recognizing quality indicators, and aligning your choices with the restaurant’s philosophy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, mastering the process ensures you leave not just satisfied, but truly delighted. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to order seafood at Lakeside at Desert Shores, from research to reservation to the final bite. By following these protocols, you’ll elevate your dining experience from ordinary to exceptional.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research the Restaurant’s Philosophy and Menu Themes

Before stepping foot into Lakeside at Desert Shores, invest time in understanding its culinary identity. Unlike generic seafood chains that rely on frozen imports, Lakeside emphasizes sustainability, seasonality, and regional partnerships. Their menu often rotates based on what’s freshly caught along the Pacific Coast and Gulf of Mexico. Begin by visiting their official website and reviewing their “Our Seafood” or “Sourcing” section. Look for mentions of specific fisheries, certifications (such as MSC or ASC), and chef-driven narratives about ingredient origins.

Pay attention to recurring themes: Do they specialize in shellfish? Do they highlight sustainable tuna or wild-caught Alaskan salmon? Are there signature preparations like ceviche, crudo, or wood-grilled fish? This context helps you anticipate what’s likely to be available and guides your decision-making when you arrive. Many guests overlook this step and end up disappointed when their favorite dish isn’t offered. Proactive research prevents this frustration.

Check the Daily Specials and Catch of the Day

One of the most critical elements of ordering seafood at Lakeside is understanding the “Catch of the Day.” This isn’t a marketing gimmick—it’s the cornerstone of their menu. The chef receives daily deliveries from trusted suppliers, often arriving by early morning. The catch can vary dramatically: one day it might be Pacific halibut, another day it could be red snapper or even local desert trout (a rare inland delicacy). The catch is never listed on the static menu; it’s shared verbally by servers or posted on a chalkboard near the host stand.

Upon arrival, immediately ask your server: “What’s the catch today?” and “What’s been flying in from the coast this week?” Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions: “Is this line-caught or trawled?” “Where was it harvested?” “How long has it been out of the water?” Servers at Lakeside are trained to answer these with confidence and pride. Their knowledge reflects the restaurant’s commitment to transparency.

Understand the Menu Categories and Preparation Styles

Lakeside’s menu is organized to guide guests toward informed decisions. Categories typically include:

• Raw Bar (oysters, ceviche, crudo)
• Grilled & Seared (fish fillets, whole fish, scallops)
• Stewed & Braised (seafood stews, paella, bouillabaisse)
• Appetizer Plates (crab cakes, shrimp cocktail, fried calamari)
• Seasonal Specials (limited-time dishes tied to harvest cycles)

Each preparation style affects flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. For example:

• Raw preparations like crudo preserve the fish’s natural sweetness and delicate texture—ideal for those who appreciate purity of flavor.
• Grilled seafood develops a smoky crust and concentrated taste, perfect for those who enjoy bold, charred notes.
• Braised dishes allow seafood to absorb complex aromatics and are often more forgiving for those new to seafood dining.

Study the descriptions. Phrases like “served with citrus beurre blanc” or “paired with saffron-infused risotto” signal elevated technique. Avoid dishes that simply say “grilled salmon” without accompaniments—this often indicates a less thoughtful preparation.

Communicate Dietary Needs and Preferences Clearly

Whether you’re allergic to shellfish, following a low-sodium diet, or avoiding mercury-heavy fish, clarity is non-negotiable. Don’t assume the server knows your needs. Use direct, specific language:

• “I have a severe shellfish allergy—can you confirm that the kitchen uses separate utensils and surfaces?”
• “I’m trying to limit sodium. Is it possible to have the fish steamed instead of seared with butter?”
• “I prefer lighter preparations—could you recommend something under 300 calories?”

Lakeside’s staff is accustomed to accommodating these requests. In fact, they often suggest alternatives you hadn’t considered. For instance, if you’re avoiding high-mercury fish like swordfish or tuna, they might recommend sardines or mackerel—smaller, sustainably harvested species rich in omega-3s and lower in contaminants.

Order Strategically: Start Small, Build Up

One of the most common mistakes guests make is ordering a large, heavy seafood entrée as their first course. Instead, follow a progressive tasting approach:

1. Begin with a raw or lightly cooked appetizer (e.g., oysters on the half shell or a citrus-marinated scallop crudo).
2. Move to a shared seafood platter or a smaller grilled fish (like sea bass or branzino).
3. End with a dessert that complements the oceanic theme—think coconut panna cotta or lemon verbena sorbet.

This method allows your palate to appreciate subtle flavor differences and prevents overwhelming your senses. It also gives you the flexibility to adjust your order based on what you’ve already tasted. If you love the crudo, you might opt for another raw dish as your main. If the grilled fish is underwhelming, you can pivot to a stewed option.

Ask for Pairings and Beverage Suggestions

Seafood and wine pairing is an art, and Lakeside’s sommeliers are experts in this domain. Don’t hesitate to ask: “What would you recommend to go with the halibut?” or “Is there a local craft beer that complements the shrimp tacos?”

General guidelines they often follow:

• Light white wines (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio) pair with delicate fish like flounder or sole.
• Chardonnay (unoaked) enhances buttery textures in lobster or scallops.
• Sparkling wines cut through richness in fried seafood or creamy sauces.
• Light, hoppy IPAs work surprisingly well with spicy crab dishes.

They may also suggest non-alcoholic pairings: sparkling water with lime, house-made ginger lemonade, or herbal iced teas infused with hibiscus or mint. These elevate the meal without overpowering the seafood’s natural flavors.

Confirm Preparation Details Before Finalizing Your Order

Before saying “yes” to your dish, confirm the following:

• Is the fish cooked to your preferred doneness? (e.g., “medium-rare” for tuna, “opaque throughout” for cod)
• Are any sauces or garnishes added automatically? (e.g., butter, garlic, capers)
• Is there a choice of side? (e.g., seasonal vegetables, wild rice, roasted potatoes)
• Can the dish be modified to be gluten-free? (e.g., replacing breading with almond flour)

At Lakeside, modifications are not only accepted—they’re encouraged. The kitchen operates with flexibility because they understand that dining is personal. A simple request like “no lemon zest” or “hold the capers” can make a significant difference in your enjoyment.

Observe Presentation and Quality Upon Arrival

When your dish arrives, take a moment to assess its appearance and aroma. Fresh seafood should smell clean and briny—not fishy or ammoniated. The color should be vibrant: salmon should be a deep orange-pink, scallops should be ivory with a slight sheen, and shrimp should be translucent with a hint of pink.

Look for signs of freshness:

• Firm flesh that springs back when lightly pressed
• Moist, not dry or slimy texture
• Even cooking—no gray or translucent patches
• Accompaniments that complement, not dominate

If anything seems off, don’t hesitate to politely notify your server. Lakeside’s philosophy is built on trust, and they will gladly replace any dish that doesn’t meet their standards. This is not a sign of complaint—it’s a sign of engagement.

Engage with the Staff After Your Meal

Before leaving, consider asking your server one final question: “What’s coming in next week?” or “Is there a dish you personally love that’s not on the menu?” Many servers are trained to share chef’s secrets—hidden specials, off-menu preparations, or seasonal ingredients arriving soon. This interaction not only deepens your connection to the restaurant but also positions you as a valued guest who appreciates the craft behind the food.

Best Practices

Visit During Off-Peak Hours for Better Service and Selection

Lakeside at Desert Shores is popular, especially on weekends and holidays. To maximize your experience, visit during off-peak hours: weekdays between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, or Sunday lunches. During these times, the kitchen is less rushed, servers have more time to guide you, and the catch of the day is often more varied due to fewer pre-orders.

Additionally, the lighting is softer during sunset hours, and the lakefront patio offers a tranquil ambiance that enhances the seafood experience. Avoid rush hours (7:00 PM–9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays) if you’re seeking a relaxed, thoughtful meal.

Reserve in Advance—Especially for Window Seats

While walk-ins are welcome, Lakeside’s most coveted tables are those with lakefront views. These seats offer not only visual serenity but also a subtle breeze that enhances the dining atmosphere. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made online through their website or by phone. When booking, specify “lakefront seating” and “seafood tasting experience.” The host team will note your preferences and ensure optimal placement.

Seasonality Is Your Ally

Seafood availability follows natural cycles. In spring, expect Dungeness crab and halibut. Summer brings lobster and shrimp. Fall highlights oysters and mackerel. Winter is prime for salmon and sea scallops. By aligning your visit with seasonal peaks, you’re guaranteed the freshest, most flavorful offerings.

Check Lakeside’s social media accounts (Instagram and Facebook) weekly. They regularly post updates about incoming shipments, chef’s tasting menus, and limited-time collaborations with local fishermen. Following them gives you insider access to what’s coming before it hits the menu.

Order by Weight, Not by Portion Size

Many guests are confused by seafood portioning. At Lakeside, fish is often priced per pound and served in varying weights. A “6-ounce salmon fillet” may be smaller than a “half-pound halibut steak.” Always ask: “What’s the average weight of this dish?” and “Is it served whole or filleted?” This helps you compare value and avoid under-ordering.

For groups, consider ordering one whole fish (like branzino or snapper) to share. It’s visually impressive, traditionally prepared, and often more economical than multiple individual fillets.

Don’t Overlook the Raw Bar

Many first-time visitors bypass the raw bar, assuming it’s just for oyster enthusiasts. But crudo, ceviche, and tartare offer some of the purest expressions of seafood flavor. A simple dish of yellowfin tuna crudo with yuzu, sesame oil, and microgreens can be more memorable than a heavy, sauced entrée. Give it a try—even if you’re not a raw seafood fan. You might discover a new favorite.

Be Mindful of Sustainability

Lakeside partners with fisheries that prioritize environmental stewardship. When ordering, favor species listed as “best choice” by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program. These include:

• Alaskan salmon (wild-caught)
• U.S. farmed catfish
• Pacific sardines
• U.S. Atlantic sea scallops

Avoid species flagged as “avoid,” such as Atlantic cod, bluefin tuna, and shark. Your choices support ethical practices and help preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.

Tip Thoughtfully, But Don’t Feel Obligated

At Lakeside, service is included in the bill for parties of six or more. For smaller groups, a 18–20% gratuity is customary and appreciated. However, if your server went above and beyond—offering detailed recommendations, accommodating special requests, or sharing personal insights—a higher tip is a meaningful gesture of gratitude. They don’t expect it, but they’ll remember it.

Tools and Resources

Official Website and Online Menu

Start with lakesidedesertshores.com. Their menu is updated weekly and includes detailed descriptions of each seafood item, sourcing notes, and allergen information. The site also features a blog with behind-the-scenes stories from the chefs and fishermen they partner with.

Seafood Watch App by Monterey Bay Aquarium

Download the free Seafood Watch app (available on iOS and Android). It provides real-time recommendations on which seafood to buy or avoid based on sustainability. Use it to cross-reference Lakeside’s offerings and make informed choices. You can even scan barcodes of packaged seafood to verify its origin.

Google Maps and Review Analysis

Read recent reviews on Google Maps (last 90 days). Look for patterns: Are guests consistently praising the crab cakes? Are there complaints about overcooked fish? Pay attention to photos—real images of dishes help you visualize portion size and presentation. Avoid reviews that are overly generic (“great food!”) and focus on those with specific details.

Resy or OpenTable for Reservations

Use Resy or OpenTable to book your table. These platforms allow you to view real-time availability, select seating preferences, and even request special occasions (anniversaries, birthdays). Lakeside prioritizes reservations made through these systems and often sends a pre-visit email with menu highlights.

Local Seafood Blogs and Podcasts

Follow Las Vegas-based food bloggers like “The Desert Table” or “Sin City Eats” on Instagram. They frequently feature Lakeside and offer insider tips on upcoming chef collaborations. Podcasts like “The Seafood Insider” occasionally interview Lakeside’s executive chef, offering deep dives into sourcing strategies and seasonal planning.

Ask for the “Chef’s Tasting Menu”

While not always listed on the menu, the chef’s tasting menu is available upon request. Typically 4–6 courses, it showcases the freshest ingredients of the week, paired with curated beverages. It’s an immersive experience that costs slightly more than ordering à la carte but delivers exceptional value and storytelling. Ask your server: “Is there a chef’s tasting menu available tonight?”

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor

Jessica, a tourist from Chicago, visited Lakeside on a Friday evening with her husband. She had never eaten seafood outside of chain restaurants. She walked in, overwhelmed by the menu. Her server, Marco, began by asking about her preferences: “Do you like sweet or savory? Mild or bold?” Jessica said she preferred light, fresh flavors. Marco recommended the crudo of yellowfin tuna with blood orange and fennel, followed by a grilled sea bass with lemon-herb butter. He explained that the sea bass was caught off Santa Barbara that morning. Jessica was skeptical but agreed. The dish arrived beautifully plated, the fish flaky and moist, the citrus bright but not overpowering. She later posted on Instagram: “I didn’t think I liked seafood. I was wrong.”

Example 2: The Health-Conscious Diner

David, a 58-year-old retiree with high cholesterol, visited Lakeside with his daughter. He asked for a low-sodium, low-fat option. The server suggested a steamed Pacific cod with steamed asparagus and a quinoa pilaf, no butter or oil added. David was concerned it would be bland, but the chef prepared a house-made herb infusion using dill, chives, and lemon zest to enhance flavor without salt. David finished every bite and returned two weeks later for the same dish.

Example 3: The Local Foodie

Maya, a Las Vegas resident and food blogger, visited Lakeside every month for a year. She tracked the seasonal changes and documented them in a series called “Desert to Sea.” In December, she discovered a rare dish: wild-caught lingcod with roasted root vegetables and a black garlic emulsion. She posted a photo with the caption: “Who knew the Mojave could taste this much like the Pacific?” Her post went viral, and Lakeside saw a 30% spike in inquiries about lingcod that week. She later received a personal note from the chef thanking her for highlighting sustainable fishing.

Example 4: The Group Celebration

A family of eight celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary at Lakeside. They ordered the “Ocean Platter,” a shared selection of oysters, shrimp cocktail, grilled octopus, and whole roasted branzino. The server arranged for a complimentary dessert: a chocolate sea salt tart with candied citrus. They were so impressed that they returned the next month for a private sunset dinner on the patio. The restaurant now offers a “Celebration Seafood Experience” package based on their feedback.

FAQs

Is the seafood at Lakeside at Desert Shores really fresh, given that Las Vegas is in the desert?

Yes. Lakeside sources seafood daily from trusted West Coast distributors who deliver via air freight within 24–36 hours of harvest. Fish is never frozen before arrival. The restaurant maintains strict temperature controls and uses a first-in, first-out inventory system to ensure peak freshness.

Can I order seafood if I have a shellfish allergy?

Absolutely. Lakeside has a dedicated allergen protocol. They use separate prep stations, utensils, and fryers for shellfish-free dishes. Always inform your server of your allergy, and they will work with the kitchen to ensure safety.

Are there vegetarian or vegan seafood alternatives?

While Lakeside focuses on real seafood, they offer plant-based alternatives like jackfruit “crab cakes” and mushroom-based ceviche during seasonal promotions. Ask your server if these are available.

What’s the best time of year to visit for the best seafood?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–November) offer the most variety and highest quality. Winter brings premium salmon and scallops. Summer features abundant shrimp and lobster.

Can I request a specific type of fish not on the menu?

Yes, if it’s in season and available. The kitchen will try to accommodate requests for specific species like king salmon, turbot, or monkfish—provided they meet sustainability standards.

Is there a dress code?

Lakeside maintains a smart-casual dress code. Collared shirts and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Flip-flops and athletic wear are discouraged.

Do they offer takeout or delivery for seafood?

Yes, but only for select items. Grilled fish and seafood platters are available for takeout. Raw items like oysters and crudo are not offered for delivery due to freshness concerns.

Can I bring my own wine?

No. Lakeside has an extensive, curated wine list designed to complement their seafood offerings. Corkage fees are not permitted.

Conclusion

Ordering seafood at Lakeside at Desert Shores in Las Vegas is not about following a checklist—it’s about embracing an experience. It’s about understanding that the desert, despite its arid landscape, can be a conduit for the ocean’s bounty when guided by intention, respect, and expertise. This restaurant doesn’t just serve fish; it tells stories—of fishermen at dawn, of tides and seasons, of chefs who treat every fillet as a canvas.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from researching the menu to engaging with the staff—you transform a meal into a memory. You become not just a diner, but a participant in a larger narrative of sustainability, craftsmanship, and connection.

Whether you’re drawn by the shimmer of the lake at dusk, the crispness of a perfectly seared scallop, or the quiet pride of a server who knows exactly how their fish was caught—you’ll find that Lakeside at Desert Shores offers more than seafood. It offers a sense of place, a moment of stillness, and a reminder that even in the most unexpected locations, excellence can flourish.

So the next time you find yourself in Las Vegas, step away from the casinos, leave the noise behind, and head to the water’s edge. Order with curiosity. Ask questions. Trust the process. And let the sea, even in the desert, surprise you.