If you've driven down 21st Street near Tyler lately, chances are you've seen the bright, inviting storefront of Sharky’s Island Bites—or maybe you’ve caught a whiff of Hawaiian barbecue drifting from one of their colorful food trucks around town. Behind this growing tropical food brand is Mike Brotemarkle, a longtime nurse, devoted family man, and proud owner of Wichita’s own slice of the islands.

Mike, a Wichita native and graduate of Kapaun Mt. Carmel, has called this community home for all of his 38 years. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Wichita State University, he spent nearly two decades serving patients—currently at the VA Hospital—bringing care and compassion to each interaction. But a twist of fate during his recovery from his fifth bout of COVID-19 sparked a new passion project: launching a business that would bring bold island flavors to Kansas. “Sharky’s Island Bites started as a dream,” Mike explains. “Something to focus on while I was healing—and it just kept growing.”

Today, Sharky’s boasts two brick-and-mortar locations and two food trucks, serving up mouthwatering Hawaiian hot plates that include Huli Huli chicken, teriyaki and poke bowls, chicken katsu, loco moco, and some of the best specialty hamburgers in town. The restaurant's name may be playful, but the food is seriously satisfying—crafted fresh to order, every time. “We never pre-cook,” says Mike. “It takes a little longer, but we want to make sure everything that comes out of our kitchen is hot, fresh, and worth the wait.”

And clearly, customers agree. Since opening, Sharky’s has built a loyal following of repeat diners who return again and again for the unique blend of flavors and friendly service. “Hawaiian food is really the original fusion cuisine,” Mike explains. “It combines influences from Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and Portuguese traditions—if you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out.”

Wichita foodies are catching on. In 2025, Sharky’s won the People’s Choice Award at the Death by Chocolate culinary event and took home second place for best burger at the Ketch Burger Battle, solidifying its reputation as a local favorite.

But behind the food is a true “mom and pop” operation. Mike and his wife stay deeply involved in the day-to-day grind of the business while raising their two kids. Daughter Isabella, 14, is a sophomore at Kapaun Mt. Carmel and a standout athlete on both the varsity wrestling and tennis teams. Ten-year-old Brayden attends Magdalen Catholic School and is currently into Roblox and battling Beyblades.

It’s clear Sharky’s Island Bites is more than a restaurant—it’s a reflection of the Brotemarkle family’s work ethic, heart, and commitment to quality. Mike offers this simple advice to fellow neighbors and food lovers: “Try something new. Hawaiian food is approachable, packed with flavor, and has something for everyone.”

Hungry yet? You can visit Sharky’s Island Bites at 8918 W 21st St N, Suite 800, in Wichita. To learn more, book catering, or find out where the food trucks will pop up next, call (316) 364-9534 or email mikebrotemarklectp@gmail.com. And don’t be surprised if this local gem becomes your new go-to spot.