Palm Springs and the Desert Resorts Restaurants

During the season, restaurants can be busy, as many locals and visitors dine out every night, and some for every meal. An influx of talented chefs has expanded the dining possibilities of a formerly staid scene. The meat-and-potatoes crowd still has plenty of options, but you'll also find fresh seafood superbly prepared and contemporary Californian, Asian, Indian, and vegetarian cuisine, and Mexican food abounds. Most restaurants have early-evening happy hours, with discounted drinks and small-plate menus. Restaurants that remain open in July and August frequently discount deeply; others close in July and August or offer limited service.

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  • 1. Bar Cecil

    $$$$

    Since this posh bistro sprung to colorful wallpapered life just beyond downtown in the spring of 2021, it has been the toughest ticket in town to score—and Michelin agrees that it's worth the hype. Hoping to be the culinary manifestation of British photographer, artist, and Renaissance man, Cecil Beaton, the meaty menu is rich, flavorful, and full of financial and caloric splurges (caviar-topped deviled eggs, Wagyu tomahawk steaks), as well as fundamentally familiar dishes (roast chicken, steak frites, Bibb-lettuce salad, lemon tarts), but chef Gabe Woo adds unexpected touches like seasonal chutney atop a smoked pork chop. There's also a wild visual feast to be consumed (even in the bathrooms!). The look is splashy yet chic, centered on a marble and wooden bar, an enviable art collection that includes Calder and Warhol, and a showpiece custom light fixture. Start the reservation hunt early, and, if unsuccessful, show up before the restaurant opens,and pray for a cancellation or that one of the bar's grommeted, electric-blue, stool-chair hybrids, reserved for walk-ins, is available.

    1555 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, California, 92264, USA
    442-332–3800

    Known For

    • Charming patio where you might spy celebrities
    • Perfect vegetable accompaniments
    • Complex and elegant cocktails, including a $50 martini

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon., Reservations essentials, Cash only; only serves parties of 6 or less
  • 2. Lavender Bistro

    $$$$

    This romantic bistro with a spacious outdoor atrium decked out with flowers, twinkle lights, and pops of the namesake color has several weekly specials (e.g., no-corkage-fee Sunday) and a lengthy menu of fancy meats, seafood, and old-school salads. Always save room for dessert.

    78--073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta, California, 92253, USA
    760-564–5353

    Known For

    • Live music on the patio and in the fireside lounge
    • Prime rib Thursday
    • Extensive locavore menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch. Closed June–Sept., Reservations essential
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