Ocean Trail — Restaurant in Arizona

Update 2/7/24

Ocean Trail is a hidden gem nestled within the bustling, illuminated heart of Talking Stick Casino. As I entered the restaurant on a lively Friday night, the symphony of slot machines and excited chatter created an initial impression, which was both intriguing and overwhelming. The ambiance, as one might expect in such a location, was less about serene dining and more a reflection of the casino's high-energy environment. The vibrant noise and the live band playing nearby are upfront realities for anyone considering a culinary venture here.

At first glance, the décor struck me as perhaps incongruous with the rich Cajun flavors promised on the menu. The walls adorned with glass tiles hint at an aquatic theme, it felt as if it were previously a seafood restaurant repurposed as a cajun place. It's a functional space where the focus is clearly meant to be on the food rather than the surroundings.

The unassuming environment belies the kitchen's impressive dedication to quality and freshness. As I watched, each oyster was meticulously inspected, with the chef himself conducting a personal 'sniff test' just after shucking. This commitment to freshness extends to the entire menu, instilling confidence that each dish is crafted from the peak of the produce and proteins available.

For my main course, I selected the Shrimp Gumbo. Ordering at a spice level of 6, I was eager to see how this Cajun staple would translate at Ocean Trail. The gumbo did not disappoint: it delivered a robust complexity that danced across my palate, the spices harmoniously blending into a symphony of taste that felt both authentic and expertly executed. There were, however, fleeting moments when the shrimp, though perfectly fresh, were ever so slightly overcooked -- we're talking like 60 seconds. This minor hiccup was swiftly forgiven, however, as the dish's overall composition more than compensated. As any Cajun aficionado will tell you, a little perspiration is a testament to the dish's integrity, and my experience was authenticated by the extra napkins thoughtfully provided by our attentive waiter.

Ocean Trail’s service is brisk but warm, reflective of its efficient operation on a small floor space that seats roughly 30 patrons. With no reservations accepted, you should be prepared for a short wait. Despite the brisk pace, the staff ensured our needs were met promptly, reinforcing a sense of team cohesion and professionalism that complements the kitchen’s artistry.

In terms of value, the pricing is as accessible as it is commendable, serving undeniably high-quality cuisine that stands as the best I’ve encountered in the valley—a sentiment echoed by long-standing patrons and newcomers alike.

Ocean Trail is an endearing contradiction: a vibrant and electric atmosphere paired with food that pays homage to the subtle intricacies of Cajun nuances. It's an experience that thrives on freshness, creativity, and flavor, adeptly overcoming the auditory chaos of its casino setting. While the décor and ambiance offer room for improvement, the remarkable service and exceptional food quality make Ocean Trail a noteworthy destination for any Cajun food enthusiast braving the casino's lively tide.

Overall, I rate Ocean Trail a deserved 4 out of 5, mainly driven by their exceptional food quality, menu, and service despite the energetic atmosphere that some may find challenging.

Original Review I hadn't realized that the menu was very heavily Cajun, which I love, and haven't found many good Cajun restaurants outside of New Orleans. Ocean trail did not disappoint. Portions were generous, everything was properly cooked and very well flavored. Went with my friend Kasey last night. I had the creole and he had the shrimp boil. The flavor on both were perfect. Kasey was afraid that it would be an oily mess, instead, the broth was rich, lemony, no oily feel whatsoever. The creole was loaded with shrimp, scallops, clams and all...

Paul the server immediately shows his true colors. I was really excited to eat here as I’m from Florida and I’m a fan of seafood. I walked up to the exact same area as a group of young white women. He immediately assisted them and properly engaged in conversation while directing them in to the area to order food. I was never greeted or acknowledged. I was so ecstatic to order seafood, that I ordered the $27 special of the day and the $21 appetizer all for me to eat, knowing I wouldn’t finish half. I patiently waited for Paul to take his time with the white women. He even made a remark to another guy in a chef coat about the woman’s figure while she was turned around. He handed them their food and drinks with smiles and enthusiasm. By the time he turned to me, all of those happy facial expressions turned to frustration and he took my order with agitation. I didn’t even want to ask details about the food I was ordering because he was short in response with everything else. After serving me my beer and check, he stood by me to wait for me to tip and sign..... that was the LAST straw. The food had not even began the process of cooking and I did not sign yet, as I wanted to finish my text message to my girlfriend... he rudely interrupted to tell me I couldn’t stand there and wait for my food. I’m a former bartender with ten years of experience... I know proper hospitality behavior. This was by far the most obvious, bizarre situation I’ve ever been in, and I did absolutely nothing to warrant it. I even dressed accordingly. I felt very unwanted and even after spending $65, my money felt very unappreciated.

Side note: I NEVER give negative feedback. For me to thoroughly write this shows how much I’m truly frustrated...

Ocean Trail has been our favorite place to eat over the past 8 years. Going all the way back to when Tip was the chef, the food was unbelievlely delicious! Our server was always Hymie who was also the very best! Then Tip retired and the young gentleman took over her spot, be he was also outstanding with his cooking! So we moved out of state, we came this week to visit and came last night for our Anniversary dinner. I was so looking forward to order my favorite, Cajun shrimp boil as always. But to great disappointment, this new chef cooking our food last night 8/15, just did not make the cut. I was so very disappointed, it was flavorless lacked flavor all the way no salt either, and it was a very full bowl of liquid, like a soup, which it’s “not” a soup, that was watered down. Nothing was right about this dish that I’ve been getting for years. My oysters were delicious, and my husband’s shrimp cocktail was too. He had the beer steamed clams, they were actual good. Our server Amaris, was pretty good,, but not quite as good as Hymie was. Also, another disturbing issue, was the Nats that were flying around our heads and our food, and all around the bar, we have never in all these past years experienced that before! I worked in the bar/restaurant industry, so nats flying everywhere is not good! Over all… last nights experience with my meal was not good, I didn’t even stay for desert this time either, so I probably won’t be returning to what used to be one of my favorite places to eat in Arizona. My anniversary dinner was a sad...