Cajun Connection - North Utica

Having been here a few times before (though the last time was over a year ago) I was excited to be in the area again. I was raised in the deep South and my friend is from the same area as the owner so I've always appreciate this place).Ordered the app combo of fried alligator (a favorite), fried shrimp, and boudin balls (always a favorite). It was a super hot day and I'd been outside most of the day so this was the perfect size. However I feel that my small order caused the next.My server didn't really seem happy to be there and that was my first disappointment having in the past always felt very welcome. Sweet tea was good, Southern style.My food came out and I was excited! The server didn't speak or even tell me about the 3 sauces or what they were. Again, she seemed annoyed with me. This was the Last time I saw her until I stopped her to ask for my check.The alligator was good, happy to have that. Fries were perfect. Shrimp was ok but a bit overcooked and chewy which was a bummer. The boudin balls....complete disappointment. The rice was very bland (I've ordered the mild before...they had taste in the past) and very overcooked and mushy. I mean...not good at all. Those and the alligator were the two things I wanted most.Yes, could have got up and hunted my server but after feeling unwelcome already I just waited until she came out later and asked for my check. The food set there mostly uneaten and she didn't even ask if it was ok.I tipped. I left. I'm disappointed and not sure when or if I'll be that way again and if I'll even stop. This was such a great place when it opened.

Drove 1.5 hours to get there and I’d do it again…Atmosphere is odd…feels like we were sitting in someone’s house…..service was slow….food was outstanding….blackened shrimp and fried gator were a solid 9/10…. Shrimp ettouffee was just a tick lower….Highly recommend it….we’ll be back

Amazing place, staff, and the owner Cajun Ron always comes out and visits with the customers. Thanks for all the great food over the years!

Went there at 4:30 today and they told us they could not seat anymore people today. They only opened at 2:00 Very disappointed! This was the Only reason we came to Utica today, WHICH WAS A HOUR DRIVE NOT WASTING MY TIME AGAIN. WILL LET EVERYONE I KNOW NOT TO VISIT THIS RESTAURANT.

The owners are looking to retire due to lack of staffing. It is a shame. Absolutely the best Cajun food period. We just returned from New Orleans and could not find an equal to the ted beans and rice nor jambalaya!