By Tracy Dietlin
We just had the most amazing meal at Oceana in Palm Desert. It was our first-time dining there and it did not disappoint.
As we walked in, we commented on how the restaurant was decorated. The colors were gray and black, and the aesthetic was clean and crisp and inviting. There was not only one, but several octopus designs on the walls giving it that authentic seafood dining experience.
We were seated at our table and the staff brought us their famous Jicama, Cucumber and Radish starter to our table instead of the normal bread. It was delightful, crisp and flavorful, in a light vinaigrette and tajin sauce.
We started off with the ahi tuna nachos and the calamari which arrived quickly.
I have to say hands down it was the best calamari that we’ve ever eaten. They were flavorful, tender steaks and not chewy, which some calamari tends to be if not fresh like these were. They came with a side of banana pepper aioli sauce and cocktail sauce, along with truffle fries.
The Ahi was also the best. Tender and tasty, served with jalapeno, avocado, cilantro and homemade chips.
For our main course I decided on the scallops, which came in the most delicious orange bacon butter sauce and were seared to perfection. They were accompanied by white rice, which was perfect for soaking up every bit of that tangy sauce, along with zucchini.
Phil chose the Surf and Turf, which was a flat iron steak that he ordered medium rare and arrived exactly as ordered, with large prawn shrimps that tasted like they had just come off the boat, they were so fresh. It was served with potato cambria and house veggies.
We could barely get down another bite we were so full, but Marco, one of the owners, told us about their specialty desserts. We couldn’t say no to the Carlotta and the Coconut flan, both of which are home made daily right there in the restaurant. And again, they were two of the best desserts I’ve ever had. The Carlotta, was like a Mexican tiramisu, which came in an orange sauce with an orange slice on top. Absolutely divine! The coconut flan was creamy and delicious.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how kind, knowledgeable and fun the whole serving team was, making our night out truly amazing.
By the time we were halfway through our meal at 6pm the restaurant was packed.
If you’re looking for a 5 star dining experience, I highly recommend you try this little gem located at 77932 County Club Drive #2 in Palm Desert. 760-610-2517 Hours are: Monday through Saturday 11am to 9pm.
