The first reason is that they were named recipient of the Yelps top 20 oyster restaurants in America and Canada. What makes Buck & Rider unique is they fly in daily fresh seafood. While Phoenix area being in a non-coastal area is not a state that comes to mind for fresh seafood, they were one of three “land locked” states to win this recognition. They came in at number 16. Originally from Arcadia, California they expanded into Gilbert and Scottsdale in 2015.
I had visited Buck & Rider once before in July of 2024 and was so impressed with the quality of seafood I wrote up a quick review of the restaurant. I sought out to understand a little of the how and why their seafood was so fresh and delicious. I met the General Manager Jessica Rotner who informed me of the daily seafood being flown in. She and her staff were so friendly, I told her I would seek out the Gilbert location when I returned.
Fast forward to August 2025, while visiting family in the Mesa/Gilbert area my daughter forwarded me a write up on Buck & Rider being one of the 20 restaurants. In addition, the day after we arrived, all of their locations were holding their 9th annual Oyster Day on Saturday, August 2nd, featuring $2 oysters all day at all locations. The event also included live music and happy hour cocktails specifically at the Gilbert location at 3150 E. Ray Road.
Photo ©Michael Kelly…