When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Ocean Trail
Why Ocean Trail is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ocean Trail in Scottsdale is a fantastic venue to meet up with friends, offering a unique blend of Cajun and Creole flavors with a touch of Mediterranean and Arizona influences. This popular restaurant is praised for its attentive service and hospitable staff, including Nicolas, Najat, and Sara, who are known for making guests feel welcome and cared for. The menu features flavorful dishes such as jambalaya and dirty rice, with creative cocktails like their notable Bloody Mary that offers a spicy yet slightly sweet twist. The ambiance pairs well with the dining experience, making it a lively spot for both casual meetups and business gatherings. Despite its popularity and sometimes limited seating capacity, the overall experience is positive, with customers appreciating the quality of food and the chef’s attention to personal preferences. Ocean Trail stands out as a great place to enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine in Scottsdale, making it ideal for groups looking for a cozy, flavor-rich environment to socialize.
Here's what people think of Ocean Trail
As of recent, Ocean Trail holds a 4.5-star rating based on 265 reviews.
Reviews of Ocean Trail highlight its strong reputation, reflected in a 4.5-star rating from 265 reviews. Customers frequently mention the excellence of the food, with many describing it as some of the best Cajun and Creole cuisine they've experienced, particularly praising dishes like jambalaya and dirty rice. Positive reviews also emphasize the restaurant’s friendly, attentive staff and the quality of service, noting that the chef is very accommodating to diners' preferences. Patrons appreciate the combination of Mediterranean and Arizona flavors, which adds a unique twist to the menu. On the downside, some reviews point out that the restaurant can get crowded and recommend that adding more tables could improve the overall dining experience. Some guests felt certain dishes were missing a little something to perfect the flavor. However, these minor complaints are rare compared to the volume of positive feedback. Overall, Ocean Trail is well-regarded for its flavorful food, welcoming service, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a highly recommended spot for friends and colleagues looking to enjoy a memorable meal together.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
c j
I wanted Creole food on AZ, and this place came up. I gave ot a 4 star because it is located inside a casino (I didn't know that until i arrived), so of that is your thing you may like it even more. I ordered the seafood creole, and it was amazing! Plenty of seafood, spice level 1-10...I had "5" and I am a spicy eater, but I could have had a 3 or 4. It was still very good. Shout out to Josh the waiter. You were great. Please tell them I need cornbread next time I come, lol
Bill F
I had the pan roast combo and key lime pie. All very good. I am not for too spicy and they had zero extra in mine and I really liked it. Key lime pie was pretty good too. Would go again
Kat
It is okay. Probably will not be back but it was not bad. It is a Cajun version of comfort foods. Their Gumbo tastes like Cajun gravy and the seafood dip tastes like seafood nachos. Definitely interesting. If you actually end up going here, a level two spice is probably perfect if you like a little bit of kick.
My Le
We are a sucker for pan roast every time we go to Vegas, we need to stop by Palace Station. So when we saw Ocean Trail serving pan roast inside Talking Stick Casino, we had to try. Started out with half dozen Blue point oysters from Virginia ($27). The sizing was inconsistent. We sat at the bar to watch the chef make our combo pan roast with spice level 5. He adds five spice, shakes the Cajun spice jar 5 times which corresponds to the spice level we picked, adds White wine brandy, more Spices and lemon juice. The pan roast had crawfish, shrimp and crab meat for $39. Choice of white rice or dirty rice. We chose white and wished we tried dirty which is white rice with ground beef. Never seen this option any where else. We enjoyed the flavors but the pan roast here was pricer and I’m used to having sausage and more seafood for lesser price. The broth was on the thinner runnier side not chunky. The portions were also smaller. Reasons for the overall 3 stars. If you’re craving and want to spend your winnings, go for it. Otherwise, get it at the original pan roast at Palace Station.
Charlie B
Good food, great service, a little pricey (solo for lunch); $60.00. Ordered the Pan Roast combo seafood (spicey #4 level), with side of dirty rice, a cup of Clam Chowder, and (2) 805 beers. Rolls also were served, very good. I tipped well (cash), because of great service!! I was staying in the Talking Stick Resort, so the atmosphere is okay and loud. I would eat there again.
How to reach Ocean Trail
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Website: None
Why Ocean Trail may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ocean Trail with your friends?
Ocean Trail stands out as a perfect gathering spot for friends and family seeking a memorable and enjoyable meetup. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 265 reviews, it clearly appeals to a diverse crowd who value quality and service. The friendly and attentive atmosphere ensures guests feel welcomed and cared for, making it an ideal place for socializing and spending quality time together. Whether your group is looking for a spot to unwind over delicious food or enjoy a lively setting, Ocean Trail offers a vibrant yet comfortable ambiance. Its reputation for excellent menu options, including a unique blend of Mediterranean and Arizona influences and razzle-dazzling seafood pan roast dishes, means there’s something to satisfy diverse palates. Moreover, its accessible location adds convenience to your meetup plans, ensuring everyone can arrive with little hassle. These factors combined make Ocean Trail not just a restaurant or trail, but a destination where friends and families can forge lasting memories over great meals, stunning views, and engaging activities.
What activities can groups enjoy at Ocean Trail and why is it great for meetups?
Ocean Trail offers a variety of activities making it well-suited for group meetups. First, guests can indulge in exquisite dining experiences, featuring dishes that meld Mediterranean flair with local Arizona flavors, a culinary treat that delights all taste buds. The menu’s diversity ensures that everyone in your group finds something they love, from spicy jambalaya to seafood pan roasts, allowing shared meals to become a highlight of the gathering. Beyond dining, groups can enjoy leisurely walks on scenic coastal trails—Ocean Trail in Bar Harbor, Maine, is an easy one-mile path along the Atlantic coastline with breathtaking views of Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Point. This makes it a fantastic location for group hikes, nature photography, or simply relaxing together with wine and cheese while absorbing the natural beauty. The trail's accessibility makes it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, accommodating families, friends, and mixed groups comfortably. Plus, plenty of spots along the trail offer places to sit and enjoy the view or engage in cultural or musical activities, as some visitors bring instruments to make their experience unique and special.
What makes the dining experience at Ocean Trail memorable for groups?
Ocean Trail’s dining experience is marked by its exceptional menu quality and the personal attention guests receive, which is crucial when hosting group meetups. The chef’s attentiveness to individual preferences in how dishes are prepared demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to customer satisfaction, enhancing the communal dining vibe. Sharing flavorful plates such as the iconic jambalaya and rich dirty rice fosters a convivial atmosphere perfect for bonding and conversation. The vibrant, lively setting—combined with high-quality service—creates a welcoming environment that encourages lingering, storytelling, and laughter. The friendly, attentive staff help navigate group needs with ease, ensuring timing and orders flow smoothly despite the busyness, which often accompanies popular local spots. Moreover, the combination of Mediterranean and regional Arizona cuisine makes meals at Ocean Trail uniquely memorable, adding an adventurous culinary dimension to any gathering and turning every dinner into a shared sensory event.
How does Ocean Trail’s location enhance group meetups?
Ocean Trail’s location significantly benefits group gatherings by being not only accessible but scenic and vibrant. Situated conveniently in Scottsdale, Arizona, for the restaurant, or located alongside the spectacular Atlantic coast within Acadia National Park in Maine for the trail, the venues serve as excellent rally points. For the dining spot, proximity to casino areas and well-trafficked city zones means easy access for guests arriving from different parts of town or beyond. The coastal trail offers natural beauty that provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and socializing, making the meetup feel like a mini-retreat. Natural landmarks like Thunder Hole and Otter Point along the trail provide unique photo opportunities and quiet spots for intimate conversations amid the group. This blend of accessibility and beauty ensures the experience at Ocean Trail is seamless and memorable, catering to both energetic outings and relaxed get-togethers.
Why is Ocean Trail ideal for hosting special occasions and friendly gatherings?
Ocean Trail’s combination of top-tier cuisine, welcoming service, and scenic surroundings makes it an exceptional venue for special occasions and casual friend meetups alike. The establishment has earned a reputation for consistently delivering high-quality food and attentive service, crucial elements for any memorable event. Its ability to cater to varying group sizes, along with a diverse menu that can cater to multiple dietary preferences, ensures inclusivity and satisfaction for everyone. The relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere allows guests to enjoy conversations without feeling rushed, perfect for birthdays, reunions, or just a weekend catch-up. Additionally, the outdoor trail and nearby natural settings offer options to extend the celebration beyond dining—imagine a group hike or picnic followed by a hearty meal. These combined offerings create a well-rounded experience that guests can reminisce about fondly, turning simple gatherings into cherished memories.
How does Ocean Trail accommodate different group sizes and needs?
Ocean Trail is well-equipped to accommodate various group sizes, from intimate dinners to larger family or friend reunions. The restaurant’s seating arrangements and lively ambiance handle increased demand gracefully, despite occasional crowding during peak times. Staff’s quick and friendly service ensures that groups receive timely attention and coordinated orders, which is critical when several people are sharing the table. The outdoor trail portion offers flexible space for groups to spread out while remaining together, ideal for those who want a mix of active and relaxed moments in their meetup. Accessibility is also considered, with easy parking and nearby facilities that enhance convenience. Such versatility makes Ocean Trail a dependable choice for anyone looking to host a well-organized and enjoyable group event, regardless of the occasion or guest preferences.
What makes Ocean Trail’s scenic surroundings a draw for group visitors?
The scenic surroundings associated with Ocean Trail lend a unique charm to gatherings that goes beyond dining. Located within proximity to natural attractions—especially the coastline trail version in Bar Harbor, Maine—visitors can enjoy impressive ocean views and landmarks like Otter Cliffs and Thunder Hole. These surroundings promote wellness and relaxation, enabling groups to connect amidst nature’s beauty. Many visitors appreciate spots along the trail to pause, chat, play music, or enjoy snacks while taking in the environment’s tranquility. This connection to nature complements the social interaction, fostering deeper bonds among friends and family. For urban dining settings, the restaurant’s ambiance evokes a coastal and modern vibe that enhances the overall meetup experience by transporting guests from their everyday routine to a refreshing social escape.
Why choose Ocean Trail for a friends’ or family reunion?
Choosing Ocean Trail for your friends' or family reunion guarantees a blend of delicious food, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere that accommodates diverse tastes and interests. The reliable 4.5-star rating and positive reviews underline its consistency and popularity as a go-to destination. Its versatile offerings, whether a sophisticated meal or scenic outdoor activities, provide ample opportunities for meaningful interaction and fun. The restaurant's attentive staff and accommodating environment minimize logistical stress often associated with group events, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company. Meanwhile, the trail section complements the experience with fresh air and stunning views—perfect for groups seeking a balance between activity and relaxation. Together, these features make Ocean Trail a trusted and cherished venue for reunion celebrations and casual meetups alike.