Ocean Trail

Ocean Trail is a distinctive seafood restaurant located within the vibrant Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Specializing in authentic Louisiana Creole cuisine, Ocean Trail welcomes diners into a cozy yet lively setting that brings a true taste of the Gulf Coast right to the Arizona desert. The restaurant’s intimate dining space, with the option of sitting at the bar for an up-close view of chefs crafting each dish, creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere where every meal becomes a sensory experience.

The menu is a celebration of bold, soulful flavors with standout dishes like the Louisiana Gumbo, teeming with tender seafood and rich, spicy broth; the indulgent Seafood Creole that offers a harmonious blend of fresh shrimp, crab, and oysters simmered in a perfectly seasoned tomato base; and the iconic Jambalaya and Red Beans and Rice that boast depth and heat, satisfying spice lovers at every turn. For appetizer lovers, the Oyster Shooters and Cajun Shrimp Boil deliver a fresh kick of flavor, while the Beer Steamed Clams and Steamed P.E.I. Mussels bring a subtle briny sweetness enhanced by garlic and herbs.

Signature drinks like the Ocean Trail Bloody Mary—a spicy, complex cocktail featuring Tito’s vodka and garnished with shrimp—are crafted with as much care as the food. The Ocean Trail Hurricane evokes tropical vibes with its rum blend and citrus notes, perfectly complementing the intricate flavors of the dishes.

Diners praise Ocean Trail for its unapologetically authentic Louisiana-style fare. Reviewer c j raved about the “amazing” Seafood Creole with its intense spice levels, while Eileen MacPherson recommended stopping by just for the desserts, especially the “giant delicious chocolate truffle” known as the Bourbon Chocolate Cake. Jenn U highlighted the freshness of the Crab Meat Cocktail and the richness of the smoked seafood chowder, showing just how thoughtfully Ocean Trail balances freshness and tradition in every bite.

Though the restaurant sits inside a bustling casino, which may not appeal to every guest, many find the energetic ambiance adds a unique charm. As Canh Tran observed, “The best seat in the house is at the bar right in front of the chef,” making for an engaging and visually appetizing dining event. A few reviewers mention the challenge of the first-come, first-served seating, but agree that the food’s exceptional quality more than makes up for any wait.

From the warm, complimentary bread to the hearty servings of Succulent Shrimp Cocktail and vibrant sides like Steamed Collard Greens with Ham Hock and Bacon, Ocean Trail promises a rich culinary journey. It’s an ideal spot for seafood aficionados craving the deep, spicy, and comforting tastes of Louisiana without leaving the Valley of the Sun.