Dining Guide to Palm Springs

Photo credit: www.foodandwine.com

With its shimmering pools, striking midcentury architecture, and stunning mountain vistas, Palm Springs invites visitors to breathe in the refreshing desert air and unwind. This Californian desert town has been a beloved getaway since the 1920s when Hollywood stars sought refuge from the hustle and bustle of Tinseltown. Today, the allure of the entire Coachella Valley is stronger than ever, showcasing a diverse array of year-round events, from premier music festivals to golf and tennis tournaments, Pride celebrations, and lively pool parties. Guests can select from a colorful assortment of hotels while indulging in top-notch shopping, rejuvenating spa experiences, and a burgeoning culinary landscape that proves dining in the desert is far from ordinary.

The Coachella Valley is rapidly establishing itself as a notable gastronomic hub, offering a range of choices from Mediterranean-inspired kebabs in luxury accommodations to celebrity chef-led multi-course dinners and authentic birria at casual taco spots. Below are some hotspots that promise to make your trip to this desert oasis unforgettable.

Azúcar and Sugar High Rooftop

Nestled within the bohemian ambiance of the La Serena Villas hotel, Azúcar transports diners to a Tulum-like atmosphere with its charming whitewashed walls, chic tiles, and picturesque rooftop overlooking the sparkling pool. Chef Seth Miller, a native of the Coachella Valley, presents a menu that intertwines traditional Mexican fare with Californian influences, highlighted by a spicy watermelon margarita made with jalapeño-infused tequila that undergoes a month-long fermentation. Seasonal salads burst with freshness, while the chicken smothered in heirloom mole tells a story of a time-honored family recipe.

Boozehounds Palm Springs

Located at the northern edge of Palm Springs, Boozehounds is buzzing from brunch until nightfall, offering one of the town’s best happy hour experiences. As evening falls, the atmosphere transforms with dim lighting, imaginative cocktail creations, and a menu packed with small plates. A unique feature of this establishment is its dog-friendly policy, where guests are encouraged to bring their canine companions, enriching the dining experience with pet-themed decor and even a dedicated section on the menu for furry friends. Culinary highlights include Asian-inspired dishes such as karaage chicken tenders served on waffles and miso-marinated fish and chips.

DSRT Club

La Quinta, just south of Palm Springs, is celebrated as the “gem of the desert.” With its scenic hiking trails and charming Old Town, it’s a great spot to discover many delightful dining options, including DSRT Club. This upscale eatery captures the glamour of vintage desert social clubs with elegant dishes such as crispy-skinned branzino and a sophisticated poutine featuring filet mignon over fries with a rich demi-glaze and blue cheese.

Farm

Brunch is a must-do in Palm Springs, and Farm stands out as a local favorite, boasting a Provencal-style garden courtyard that whisks visitors away from the tourists. While dinner is also served, it’s the brunch menu that draws in eager diners, featuring light crepes with options ranging from smoked salmon and créme fraiche to indulgent Nutella. French classics like Croque Madame and Croque Monsieur are served alongside traditional omelettes, hearty sandwiches, and salads.

Lola Rose Grand Mezze

The launch of the Thompson Palm Springs hotel, delayed for years, has been one of the most anticipated events in the area. Now open, its restaurant, Lola Rose Grand Mezze, dazzles with artful interiors and a stylish rooftop pool. The menu features Levantine-inspired mezze dishes, such as creamy tomato labneh perfect for dipping with tandoor-baked pita, along with fried falafel, succulent kebabs, and refreshing salads adorned with pomegranate and feta.

Maleza Palm Springs

While traditional Mexican cuisine is ubiquitous in the region, Maleza offers a fresh, elevated interpretation nestled within the trendy Drift Hotel. Under the guidance of executive chef Ysaac Ramirez, the lunch menu celebrates the spirit of Mexican taco stands with inventive creations, such as braised beef wrapped in tortillas that boast a delightful char. The dinner offerings range from spicy coconut shrimp ceviche to a whole branzino drizzled with zesty salsa verde.

Mr. Lyons Steakhouse

To experience the retro glamour of old-school Palm Springs, visit Mr. Lyons, a classic steakhouse that exudes a sultry vibe. Premium cuts of beef such as filet or New York Strip take center stage, complemented by highlights like Cornish hen stuffed with mushrooms and an iconic wedge salad. A carefully crafted martini or Old Fashioned enhances the meal, but for an added touch, guests can seek out the hidden speakeasy, Seymour’s, tucked behind a discreet curtain after dinner.

Rooster and the Pig

With no reservations available, diners often form lines ahead of opening at Rooster and the Pig. The Vietnamese cuisine here is a standout, rivaling the dishes found in urban hotspots like Los Angeles or New York. The industrial-style dining area fosters a vibrant atmosphere, where patrons can start with crispy spring rolls or fresh summer rolls before diving into filling main courses like caramelized chicken or shaking beef, served alongside rice and vibrant salads.

Sottovoce Cafe

For a taste of upscale shopping, head to El Paseo, often dubbed the Rodeo Drive of the desert. After browsing luxury brands at The Gardens on El Paseo, take a moment to relax at Sottovoce. This Italian cafe and wine bar offers a range of gourmet pastries, craft coffees, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, providing a perfect respite amid a shopping spree.

Taco Shop 760 Restaurant

While it may involve a bit of a drive, around 30 to 40 minutes from Palm Springs, Taco Shop 760 in Indio is a must-visit for birria fans. This no-frills spot is renowned for its mouthwatering, fall-apart tender birria, which can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from quesatacos with grilled meat tucked inside a warm corn tortilla to oversized burritos and tortas.

Tía Carmen

Located further south in Indian Wells, Tía Carmen from celebrated chef Angelo Sosa offers a culinary experience steeped in Southwest flavors. Known for his background on Top Chef and collaborations with culinary legends, this restaurant pays tribute to Sosa’s aunt, with the potential for memorable multi-course dinner events featuring renowned guest chefs.

Workshop Kitchen & Bar

In the Uptown Design District, Workshop Kitchen & Bar shines with its modern aesthetic and communal dining tables. Chefs Michael Beckman and Joe Mourani, who bonded at the Paul Bocuse Institute in France, have created a menu that reflects their diverse influences, offering dishes like ricotta gnocchi in an oyster mushroom ragu, crispy pork belly fried rice, and flavorful wood-fired pizzas.

Source
www.foodandwine.com