Summary
Palm Springs is the California desert’s restaurant hotspot, however, it has undergone significant transformation over the last century. Previously, the city – along with the Coachella Valley to its southeast – was perceived primarily as a destination for retirees and golfers, often accompanied by uninspiring dining options.
Nevertheless, the landscape has dramatically evolved. An influx of visitors from diverse backgrounds and interests now flock to this desert oasis for warmth and cultural experiences, leading to an explosive growth in the restaurant scene. A vibrant atmosphere permeates the town from breakfast through dinner and into the evening, offering an eclectic selection of cuisines complemented by classic dishes that have captured the hearts of a new generation. Remarkably, most dining establishments provide both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Breakfast
Gastronomic favorites frequently emerge and fade, however, Cheeky’s has consistently maintained its esteemed status since 2008. Its concealed courtyard and modern, minimalist interior creates an ideal environment to enjoy breakfast and lunch, featuring a seasonal menu that may showcase yam hash, fried chicken and waffles with maple-thyme syrup, or huevos rancheros. Regardless of your timing, the signature bacon flights serve as a delightful accompaniment.
Elsewhere in town, King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel offers enhanced comfort food: avocado toast adorned with a medley of tomato jam, crispy shallots, and more, or a scramble beginning with charred corn, Oaxaca cheese, and squash blossoms. It’s all served in a beautifully restored former diner or poolside.
Moreover, no nostalgic Hollywood venue would be complete without a Jewish deli. Situated in downtown, Sherman’s Deli and Bakery has been offering classics since the 1950s – from benedicts and omelets to pastrami and eggs, alongside quintessential bagels and lox – all framed by walls decorated with nostalgic photographs. For late risers, breakfast is offered throughout the day, complemented by a generous daytime menu including a vast selection of sandwiches, ample entrées, and towering cakes.
Coffee (and a treat)
Koffi has established itself as such a local landmark that it could warrant a spelling alteration. Each of its locations is often bustling with friends reuniting over cappuccinos, lattes, a selection of flavorful teas, and enticing snacks like quiches and muffins.
Nestled away from the main thoroughfare, quirky and creative Gré Records & Coffee serves as a fusion of art space, record shop, and coffee bar. Visitors will find it easy to lose track of time while exploring the vinyl collection or perusing the latest art adorning the walls.
Additionally, Frisky Business Cat Café aims to find permanent homes for its resident cats, allowing guests to enjoy beverages or plant-based treats from Chef Tanya’s Kitchen in the company of friendly felines.
Lunch
The sandwiches, burgers, and salads offered at the golf clubhouse restaurant Escena Grill may not be groundbreaking, but the spectacular views are undoubtedly inspiring. Patrons can enjoy the stunning scenery of the San Jacinto Mountains while sipping on an Arnold Palmer from their seat next to the expansive windows or on the contemporary veranda.
Transitioning from spacious to intimate, The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge embodies coziness and is never far from either the pool or citrus trees. The culinary creations of Chef Jon Butler, whose experience includes the esteemed Noma in Copenhagen, emphasize locally sourced Coachella Valley and Californian ingredients. Highlights on the menu feature a smashed cucumber appetizer with salsa macha and peanuts, alongside a chicken salad infused with tarragon, and the Niman Ranch burger.
Away from the hustle and bustle, the courtyard at Farm offers a charming escape reminiscent of the French countryside, presenting sweet and savory crepes, omelets, and sandwiches. The brunch and lunch offerings also include unique selections like the combination of bacon, chicken, and waffles. End the experience with a more upscale prix-fixe dinner option.
Chef Tanya’s Kitchen serves as a pilgrimage site for local vegans. As the founder of America’s first nationwide plant-based restaurant chain, she offers an array of sandwiches, burgers, salads, and desserts – many crafted from her signature seitan recipe – from this modest location on the east side of town. With limited seating available in a pop-up next door, patrons may prefer to take their meals to enjoy on a picnic or hike.
Dinner
Vibrant Lulu occupies a central position in downtown, where you will likely find yourself as well. Its attraction is nearly irresistible; colorful decor attracts an equally vibrant crowd within its lively, two-story dining room and striking bar. Guests can indulge in cocktails while savoring a diverse American menu featuring salads, pizzas, burgers, as well as signature meatloaf, alongside numerous plant-based and gluten-free offerings. Although it opens for lunch and weekend brunch, its true energy comes to life in the evenings.
Palm Springs is recognized for its steak and martini culture, and Mr. Lyons positions itself as a purveyor of “steakhouse classics with a modern twist.” The atmosphere is both atmospheric and club-like, serving dishes such as steaks, bone-in pork chops, and Yorkshire pudding for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Guests can also opt for a more casual menu, featuring a cheesesteak sandwich crafted from prime rib, crab Rangoon, wide-ranging martini selections, or the Single Village Fix: an intriguing blend of mezcal, pineapple gum syrup, and lime juice. An added allure is the presence of the speakeasy, Seymour’s.
Can one truly enjoy sushi in the desert? Indeed, Sandfish exceeds expectations by combining delectable Japanese whisky with offerings such as nigiri, edamame, yellowtail collar, bao buns, as well as their signature Sandfish roll – a burst of spicy tuna, crab, avocado, and crispy potato threads drizzled with garlic and teriyaki sauce.
Moreover, some of Southern California’s premier dining experiences can be found in strip malls, exemplified by Rooster & the Pig. Arriving precisely at 5pm (or preparing for a wait) is essential for enjoying this innovative Vietnamese establishment offering fried and fresh spring rolls, salads featuring jasmine tea leaves, and shareable large plates: flavorful shaking beef paired with cucumber and tomato salad, sautéed eggplant, lemongrass pork noodle bowl, or sweet and tangy tiger prawns.
Lastly, El Marisol presents an authentic Mexican experience, recognized on the television show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives for the rich flavors of its chicken in mole. The fiery shrimp doña diabla delivers a significant spice kick, while the spinach enchiladas exemplify comforting cuisine. Enjoy these meals with generous servings of potent margaritas.
Bars
Palm Springs is fundamentally associated with cocktail culture, possessing a myriad of establishments that cater to those looking to enjoy drinks while watching sunsets or indulging in nocturnal revelry. A number of the aforementioned restaurants also feature vibrant bar atmospheres, while High Bar crowns the city’s tallest building at the Kimpton Rowan Hotel, allowing patrons to experience breathtaking views of the nearby mountains. Alternatively, one can opt for a unique experience at PS Air, a speakeasy furnished with airplane seats and cocktails themed around air travel, frequently hosting tastings, dance nights, and live performances.
A one-block stretch of Arenas Road, situated east of Indian Canyon Drive, serves as a vibrant party hub for both locals and visitors within the LGBTQ community. Your bar hop here might encompass high-energy experiences at Chill Bar, show tunes or karaoke at QUADZ, or dancing until dawn at Hunter’s.
Additionally, mid-century tiki bars hold a prominent presence in Palm Springs. Located off Palm Canyon Drive, the sleek Bootlegger stands on the original site of the city’s 1953 tiki bar. Just down the street and up the stairs, the dimly lit Tonga Hut features zombies and pu pu platters served under captivating blacklight art. Meanwhile, The Reef at Caliente Tropics hotel offers guests the opportunity to enjoy mai tais or the lavish painkiller cocktails poolside, complemented with dishes like kalua pork and loco moco bowls. An inclusive option is available at Toucan’s, an LGBTQ tiki bar known for its dynamic dance nights and entertaining drag shows.
