Salt & Straw, the beloved Portland-based ice cream parlor is setting up shop in the desert. The first Arizona location is expected to open in Gilbert this summer, joining an already tantalizing lineup at the Epicenter Agritopia. From its modest beginnings as a food cart, Salt & Straw has churned its way into a nationwide sensation with outposts across California, Florida, Nevada, and Washington, according to a report by 12 News.

While the Gilbert scoop shop gears up for a summer of lines likely wrapping around the block, Eugenians are already licking their lips in anticipation for the April 8th grand opening of their own Salt & Straw location. Kim Malek, co-founder of the ice cream empire, expressed her excitement about the new addition located at Oakway Center. She envisaged the space as a community hangout filled with mind-blowing flavors and inviting outdoor seating areas complete with fireplaces. "It should hopefully be a really nice hangout for the community," Malek told The Register-Guard.

The Gilbert location promises a menu of fan favorites such as Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons and the adventurous Pear and Blue Cheese among other palate pleasers. And for the early birds eager to sample the creamy concoctions in Eugene, a special treat awaits as the first 100 customers on opening day will snag complimentary T-shirts with the quirky slogan "I believe in ice cream and the Ducks."

"It's ice cream so I don't want to sound too grandiose, but I hope in this next chapter of the pandemic we can be not only a bright spot, but a place for our community to come back together," Malek reflected, as she gazed towards a more joyful and united future. The shop, which has created jobs for approximately 25 locals, will kick-start its operation with fanfare on April 8 at 6 p.m., featuring live music and a mural that celebrates Salt & Straw’s origins, The Register-Guard reported.