Palm Springs is one of the most notorious vacation destinations of the rich, famous, and otherwise prestigious people of the world. As such, it’s no wonder that it is also home to some of the best cuisines in the country, and even some of the best around the globe. Taking a trip to Palm Springs is on the agenda of every traveler that wants to explore the exclusive history, architecture, and modern fun in this city.
Of course, if you’re coming to Palm Springs, you’ll probably want to plan your trip around meals to make sure that you cover as many great spots as possible. There’s enough good food here that you could stay for weeks and still not try every item on every menu. It could even take a while to get through all the restaurants once. Fortunately, with a little planning, you’ll know which ones are worth the trip. To get you started, the list below offers some of the most popular restaurants in Palm Springs, beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Paul Bar/Food
Paul Bar/Food is owned and operated by Paul O’Halloran, a former bartender from New York. At his restaurant, he keeps people coming back with home-cooked classics like chicken schnitzel, meatloaf, seared salmon, and scallops with a corn and bacon hash. You’ll never leave hungry, or thirsty, and you’ll be sure to want to come back again while you’re in town.
Roly China Fusion
For an authentic Asian fusion experience, this restaurant has everything that you want. You’ll find a New York-style approach to Chinese, including classics like kung pao chicken, beef and broccoli, and wonton soup. On the menu are some unusual choices, as well, such as Penang noodles with duck confit and pineapple fried rice. Everything is handmade in house, fresh, and delivers a unique flavor experience that you can’t find anywhere else in the city.
Mr. Lyons
For three-quarters of a century, this retro spot is still on the top of every foodie and restaurant critic’s list. With just a few modern additions made since the original opened in 1945, this classic steakhouse has entertained the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Bob Hope, and Frank Sinatra. Today it features more modern cuisine, including some vegan-friendly options, with all the glitz, glamour, and charm still intact. If you want a drink, head behind the curtain to the hidden speakeasy rather than waiting for a table.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar
This former movie theater from the 1920s is now a modern, concrete space that features an industrial minimalism design, a spacious courtyard, and a James Beard award for the best restaurant design, naturally. The restaurant serves farm-fresh Modern American cuisine served on small plates. Dinner is upscale and great for dates, while brunch is a little less fancy and still offers plenty of upscale cuisine like blue crab eggs Benedict.
Frankinbun
This unique hot dog shop serves all-natural hot dogs on Parisian-style baguettes, with a variety of unique twists on this American classic. There are traditional choices like the Snap Dog for those who want something basic or fun selections like the Chicken and Waffle on a Stick. It’s great for adults and kids alike, and even the locals love the dogs from this place.
Chi Chi
This health-focused restaurant is all about California tradition. More specifically, according to the restaurant itself, they are committed to “the tradition of California wellness and clean living”. This establishment is located inside the Avalon Hotel but is open to the public for dining seven days a week.
Rooster and the Pig
If you’re looking for a true secret spot, this is it. You’ll want to get here early because the line always starts well before opening time. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations and there’s almost always a crowd. Vietnamese-American cuisine is on the menu, including lemongrass pork and shrimp rice noodles, mango-stuffed rice paper rolls, and crispy wood ear mushroom spring rolls, plus so much more. They also serve Vietnamese iced coffee, cocktails, and delicious sparkling wines.
What About Brunch?
Honestly, we could spend days reviewing all the great restaurants in Palm Springs, but when it comes to brunch, you really can go just about anywhere. People in this city love their brunch, and you’ll find some of the best eats and cocktails at places like Cheeky’s, Wilma & Frieda’s, Lulu’s California Bistro, and Broken Yolk.
Remember that brunch spots are always going to be popular and crowded, but they’re always worth the wait. If you want to try something different, ask the locals or just walk up and down Park Canyon Drive and see what’s busy or what’s available. You might be surprised at just what you find. No matter what, one thing is certain: you will never go hungry during your visit to Palm Springs.
Settling in To Settle the Food
In between all of the great cuisine, you’re going to need a place to relax and unwind, sleep, and spend your time. While there are many upscale boutique hotels and chain establishments throughout the Greater Palm Springs Area, they are generally filled with tourists, difficult to book, or don’t offer all of the exclusivity and privacy that you want. There is one choice that is going to take the cake for your Palm Springs vacation—the private villa rental.
Private luxury villas are available throughout Palm Springs with upscale accommodations, premium amenities, impressive views, and plenty of room for the whole family. Plus, with 24-hour concierge service, you can even ask about chefs and catering for when you don’t feel like dining out. These villas often including expansive grounds, pools and patios, fireplaces and hot tubs, and other ways to enjoy yourself and feel like you’re on an exclusive getaway. Whether you’re dining out or eating in, you’ll love being able to relax in privacy when you have a private vacation villa for your getaway.