The Best Restaurant in Palm Springs and the Desert Resorts, California

Background Illustration for 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.

Ciro's Ristorante and Pizzeria

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Since the 1960s, this Coachella Valley classic has served pizza, pasta, chicken parmigiana, and other entrées commonly ordered by mobsters in the movies. The booths are big; the lights are low; the soundtrack is soft rock; and the kitchen isn't stingy with cheese, salad dressing, or red sauce. There are a few surprises on the pie side, including one with ham and honey mustard and another featuring sesame teriyaki chicken with peanuts and carrots.

81963 Hwy. 111, Indio, CA, 92201, USA
760-347–6503
Known For
  • Wallet-friendly lunch combos
  • Old-school Italian dishes like manicotti
  • House-made, hand-tossed pizza dough

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