Palm Springs is a fabulous California getaway with its bright pink, yellow, and blue doors, martinis, tacos, pools, vintage shopping, mid-century modern homes, neon signs, and lobster fries. Yes, we said lobster fries, with truffle cheese sauce. It’s one of our favorite getaways in California. We’re sharing some of our favorite places to eat and drink when in Palm Springs. Our curated list of the best Palm Springs restaurants and cocktail bars is the only guide to dining in the desert that you need.
Seymour’s and Mr. Lyons
If you like classic cocktails and food like shrimp cocktail, Beef Wellington, and Lobster Thermidor, this vintage steakhouse and secret cocktail bar should be at the top of your list. Located on the south side of Palm Springs, it’s impeccable service, white tablecloths, and martinis will hit the spot. See photos and read more on it here.
Where to Find the Best Tacos
Rubin and Ozzy’s is a casual local favorite for fish tacos. Head to Rio Azul for traditional Mexican food and frozen margaritas in downtown Palm Springs.
Counter Reformation
Skip brunch at the Parker, and come here for the wine and small bites instead. This secret wine bar designed by Jonathan Adler is the best thing at the Parker, has only 20 seats, and not many people know about it.
The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge
Doesn’t a leisurely lunch under a citrus-covered pergola sound lovely? This is your place. If you plan it right, you can do their roast chicken dinner on Wednesday or steak on Sunday. We plan to go back for this. Learn more here.
Kimpton’s Rooftop Bar
4 Saints rooftop bar in downtown Palm Springs at the Kimpton has amazing views of Palm Springs homes and mountains. Sitting poolside and ordering a cocktail isn’t bad either.
The Pantry at the Holiday House
Order the lobster truffle fries or chicken salad with an Aperol Spritz or Martini and you’ll be set. See more on this Palm Springs restaurant and hotel here.
Birba
The weather at night can be beautiful in Palm Springs. If you’re looking for roast chicken, small bites, cocktails, or pizza, you’ll want to head to this al fresco restaurant. It fills up, so make a reservation or get their early to snag a spot at the bar.
Chi-Chi’s
There are lots of places to go for brunch, but we loved Chi-Chi’s the most. Especially the crab and avocado toast, which really was a crab benedict, plus the wide array of juices and other drinks. Get our recommendations here.
