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Brunch Besties

Need brunch? The guys at the Santiago, one of Palm Springs most exclusive resorts for gay men, make a delicious argument for weekend brunch being the most important meal of the week. Here’s the Santiago’s list of the top brunch spots!

While breakfast typically is considered the most important meal of the day, we think there’s a strong argument for weekend brunch being even more important! Whether you’re looking for a tried and true classic, something innovative or maybe just a Mimosa with a side of breakfast, Palm Springs has the perfect brunch spot for you. Here’s our list of bangin’ brunch spots you need to know about!

 

1501 Gastro Pub

This new addition to the Palm Springs restaurant scene offers delicious comfort food brunch….with a little twist: 1501 Gastro Pub mimosas include 2 free refills. They also offer their regular menu during brunch, so there is something for everyone!

Pinocchio in the Desert

The home of the desert’s most popular bottomless mimosa and many other fabulous brunch drinks! Pinocchio’s serves a traditional American comfort food breakfast.  It’s very popular. You should expect a wait.

 

FARM

This wonderful, French inspired breakfast spot used to be one of the best kept secrets in town. No more. The secret is out and the Farm can get crowded on weekends, but it’s completely worth it. Tucked away in a small wisteria garden in downtown’s historic La Plaza building, they serve delicious food and offer one of the best French Press coffees in Palm Springs!

 

Elmers

Breakfast is what Elmer’s does right! Nothing too fancy, just a good traditional breakfast menu with lots of options. Be sure to order one of their German pancakes as a table appetizer to share! A squeeze of lemon, and you will be so happy!

 

Escena Lounge and Grill

One of the most beautiful breakfast views in Palm Springs, and definitely a local secret! Located in the Clubhouse of the Escena Golf Course, but open to the public, the Grill offers traditional brunch dishes, bottomless mimosas and champagne and a jaw-dropping panoramic view! What could be better?

 

Wilma & Frieda’s

Wilma & Frida’s is a downtown brunch favorite featuring a menu filled with the owner’s family recipes. Delicious twists on breakfast favorites include short rib benedict and a tasty shrimp and grits with eggs, all made with love!  Enjoy the busy downtown scene below from your balcony view. And be sure to order one of their fantastic homemade baked goods!

 

Sherman’s Deli

Ahhhh, Sherman’s Deli, a Palm Springs classic! This is a wonderful “NY-Style” deli with an awesome breakfast served all day long! A few highlights are the potato latkes and the salmon and eggs.  If you’re feeling like something a bit more savory, try the pastrami sandwich – giant and delicious!

 

Grand Central Café

Grand Central Café is a great place for breakfast, located in downtown’s La Plaza. Featuring healthy, local California farm to table selections and a great coffee bar. Mimosa flights are a sure way to get the day started right.

 

 

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It’s Suppertime! Where To Eat Dinner In Palm Springs

The bar at the Del Rey with liquor bottles on the glass shelves

More than any other meal, dining out for supper is special. I mean, a meal under the desert sun is very different from a meal beneath the light of the desert sky.  Dinner could be a celebration, a romantic evening (for two or three — whatever floats your boat), or a get together with friends. No matter which one you’re here for, I’m here for you.

Fine dining in Palm Springs

Empty tables and a fire pit on the outdoor patio at Spencer's in Palm Springs, California

Spencer’s is a special occasion type of place. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Spencer’s — This is often the go-to for special occasions. The Bougainvillea Room is nice, but so is the inner space. I’d choose this for a classy celebration.

Tropicale — Outside is a party, but the booths inside offer the feel of your own little room. I’d recommend this for a birthday dinner with a small group of friends.

Johnny Costa’s — Very old school Italian, Rat Pack. Johnny was Sinatra’s favorite chef (both now gone). The waiters are pros — no college students here.

Le Vallauris — A fine dining experience, and rife for romance.

Eight4Nine — I’d call this the alternative to Spencer’s, but it’s on the strip. Owner and restaurateur Willie Rhine is well known and beloved by our town. Feel free to love on him too.

The Purple Room — Best dinner club in Palm Springs. Super Rat Pack atmosphere, great jazz-leaning acts, very old school Palm Springs.

A white wall with a gate that reads "So•Pa"

So•Pa is a must-try while staying at L’Horizon Resort and Spa. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

So•Pa — I spent Thanksgiving here, and wowie wow wow. It’s at L’Horizon Resort and Spa and is stunning. If you want someone to fall for you, take them here.

Miro — I love this place. Excellent food, great staff, and lovely ambiance.

Mr. Lyon’s — It’s not what I expected as far as ambiance. It’s kind of “cozy LA” inside. This is another spot for special occasions and DO NOT pass on the rolls.

Melvyn’s — Another old school spot, inside Ingleside Inn which is also an old estate with a great story. You can read all about it in Mel Haber’s books about Palm Springs, which you can purchase here. There’s also terrific music.

Azúcar — Inside La Serenas Villas, this teeters between fine dining and casual dining. The food is modern contemporary cuisine, and the view is to die for.

Johannes — Clean lines, great art on the walls, the schnitzel’s the thing here. Have it just about any way you like, it’s gonna be good. It’s not the only thing, there’s seafood too, and desserts. This is not for groups, but maybe a nice evening between two or three friends. Maybe four, but if you’re loud, like I am, keep it small.

Del Rey — If I were trying to seduce someone, I’d take them here. Located at Villa Royale, it has sexy decor and tapas, which are sexy because there’s just enough for two. It’s somewhere between casual and fine dining, but the energy is swanky.

Casual dining

1501 Gastropub — Great menu, great atmosphere. There’s a nice, big, seatable full bar. Super casual, but don’t take that to mean you don’t need a reservation. It’s a hot ticket.

Las Casuelas Terraza — Take the party here.

Upscale casual dining

Diners sit at tables outside of Lulu California Bistro in Palm Springs, California

Lulu’s is always hopping. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Lulu — Everyone has to go to Lulu at least once. The atmosphere is great, and the food is terrific too. The owner, Jerry, does great things in the community, so you can thank him by taking the party here. Although they can accommodate just about any size group, they can also give you a quieter space, or you can people watch on the patio.

Gigi’s — Take your chi chi friends here for a fun Palm Springs experience.

John Henry’s — This is off the beaten path, hard to find, and the parking is horrible, but once you find it, it’s charming. Eat outside and take someone you’re sweet on.

Birba — Pizza, but fancy.

Trio — I haven’t been since their facelift and new menu, but it used to be “the spot” for cocktails and dinner. Limited parking in the back, but there’s parking.

Maracas — I mentioned it for lunch, but it’s also great for dinner with friends.

Pomme Frite — Chef wants you to know it’s a French/Belgian bistro. It’s adorable. Go here to catch up with a friend and stay for a bit.

For foodies

French Miso — Tucked back, it’s actually part of La Plaza but, like I said, it’s tucked so it’s kind of hidden (although they now have big old signs). It’s quite lovely.

Freddie’s Kitchen — On the northern end, inside The Cole hotel, is this little French gem. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s on my list.

Sandfish — It’s sushi. A lot of people love it. I went when it first opened, and I was short of impressed. But that was a few years back — try it out and let me know.

Farm — Farm curates a menu for dinner that is very different from its breakfast and lunch. There’s an amuse bouche to start, and then some choices, prices are fixed. It’s quite a lovely space too. Closed Wednesday and Thursday for dinner.

Michelin Guide

Blue leather chairs lined up in front of the bar at Bar Cecil in Palm Springs, California

If you can, try to score a seat at Bar Cecil. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Bar Cecil — The darling of the jet set.

Tac/Quila — Jalisco, which means it’s seafood forward. Same owners as Farm. Same great attention to detail in decor and food choices.

Workshop Kitchen & Bar — It’s very L.A.

Boozehounds — Chef Aric Ianni has worked for Kimpton, but his sensibilities run more to beer pairings with fine food.

The Barn Kitchen — At Sparrows Lodge. Good food, great atmosphere.

Colony Club

4 Saints

A little something about dress. You can pretty much dress any way that you like, although resort casual seems to be the go-to these days. There has been a recent trend that I am crazy about, and that’s fashion forward streetwear. Even more specific are those that embrace the mid-mod aesthetic of yore. It’s fun, and it’s flirty. And it makes Palm Springs feel like the technicolor part of Pleasantville. It’s a gas, man. A real gas.

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Enchanting Palm Springs

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A Variety of Palm Springs Coffee Shops Beckon You to Stop

La Plaza Downtown Palm Springs ©Kathy Condon

Palm Springs is known for its excellent restaurants and umbrella drinks around the pool. However, after an evening enjoying our restaurants and relaxing music venues, you may need an eyeopener cup of coffee or a light breakfast the following day. Here are a few locally owned coffee shops you might want to consider.

L’Atelier Café means coffee shop in English. It is located in our historic La Plaza. Thus, it is centrally located and about two blocks from the well-known La Serenas Villas boutique hotel.

Like so often happens, this town draws people in and makes it hard to leave. Visiting Palm Springs from Southern France, the present owners dined at this coffee shop. While sipping their coffee and people watching, the enchanting charm of this desert city hooked them. The words, “This café is for sale,” are stuck in their heads as they head back to France.

Three months later, they sold their place in France and bought the café. Now, this thriving location has people raving about its croissants, brioche, and quiche.

Koffi Readily Available to Help You Wake Up ©Kathy Condon

Want a quiet place to meet friends or work on the next great American novel? There is a Koffi nearby to serve you. With three locations in Palm Springs, you just have to search out which one is nearby your hotel.

North Koffi appears to be your average coffee shop. However, after you have your coffee and breakfast pastries in hand, continue walking to the back of the store. Once you walk through the door, there before you an expansive grass-covered courtyard, complete with sculptures, a view of the mountains, lounging chairs, and palm trees. If you are lucky, you may even see the resident roadrunner.

Central Koffi is the newest addition in Palm Springs. Located on busy Tahquitz Boulevard, it is set far off the street, so it is quiet under the bright blue umbrellas. If you want a pleasant place to have a meeting, this is a place to consider.

South Koffi, located in South Palm Canyon, is one busy place. Serving the same great coffee and pastries as the others, its location is perfect for a quick stop before heading down the valley or to one of our many trails.

Ernest Coffee Brews up the Unusual ©Kathy Condon

Ernest Coffee is an independently-owned coffee shop in the former home of the Don Beachcomber in North Palm Springs on North Palm Canyon Drive. Look for a building with lots of orange accents and the original tiki torches guarding the door. Their patio is a great place to strike up conversations with others who have discovered their excellent Stumptown Coffee.

Located near Coyote Inn, this coffee shop is a great place to go for breakfast for their variety of pastries. Be sure to try their flaky, so satisfying scones.

The adventurous types will be delighted to discover the wide variety of coffee drinks and teas. The baristas are creative, so you never know what the special of the day maybe. How about a golden milk kind of chai tea with healing herbs and coconut milk? Okay, you got the idea; this is the place to try something new or just enjoy a perfect cup of coffee to start your day.

Café LaJefe Newest Coffee Shop in Palm Springs ©Kathy Condon

Palm Springs is known for its mid-century architecture for a reason. Great care has been taken to preserve buildings built in the mid-50s and 60s. Happily, Café LaJefe’s new home is located in a repurposed bank building in the Uptown Design District. It is right around the corner from the Los Arboles Hotel.

Their large patio provides the backdrop for your Instagram photos of your Palm Springs vacation with its colorful string-back chairs. Of course, these comfortable chairs, many of them rocking chairs, will beckon you to stay longer than you had anticipated.

Believing in partnership, the owners seek out ways to not only serve their community but provide sustainable coffee from Sister’s Coffee in Bend, Oregon, and gourmet food from local artisan Chula Artisan Eatery.  Thus, you can get your morning pick-me-up cup of coffee and grab some healthy organic food for your lunch later in the day.

Ristretto Serves Up a Magnificent View of the Mountains ©Kathy Condon

One wouldn’t expect a coffee shop to have thirst-quenching Italian sodas. However, the local owners of Ristretto are well aware that our summer’s rising temperatures increase the need for a cool, tall drink. Thus, why not a drink that is not readily available in other places in Palm Springs.

Across the parking lot, Bank of America is one of the most iconic modernist architectural buildings in our city. If you stay at the Ingleside Inn, it is easy to walk across the street for a scone or a muffin. Their inviting patio literally sits at the foot of the Jacinto Mountains.

Are you going on a hike? They have vegan choices and salads that will be perfect for eating as you hike and stop and take a break as you sit and enjoy the views looking over Coachella Valley.

4 Paws Coffee Co. Welcomes Dogs ©Kathy Condon

The Northside of Palm Springs needed a coffee shop. Thus, when 4 Paws Coffee Co came into the neighborhood, it was greeted with cheers. Guests of hotels, such as The Cole, can now grab a cup of coffee on the way to exploring our many attractions.

Not only are dogs welcomed, but they also get a free treat. The “puppy cup” (whip cream with a dog treat bone) is a big hit with their 4-legged guests. It is not unusual to see dogs in training as service dogs, for the atmosphere is conducive to quiet contemplation and people watching. In addition, the coffee shop is a great supporter of our animal shelter programs.

They have breakfast entrées. Word is their turkey croissant alongside their organic and certified coffee salted caramel latte is a great lunch.

Part of Palm Springs’ charm is the slow pace and the ability to stop and relax practically any place in the community where you can see our magnificent Jacinto Mountains. So, take your time and stop in one of our local coffee shops. You are sure to meet some of our residents who are ready to share our history and give you suggestions for places to see that are often now obvious to a visitor.  Better yet please take advantage of our summer discounts and stay longer.

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Divine, Delicious Dining In Palm Springs

Two women with blonde hair enjoy dessert at Sparrows Lodge

What do you think of when planning a visit to Palm Springs?  Of course, I envision gorgeous, soaring palm trees and dramatic mountain vistas highlighted by an almost endless, glorious, radiant sun. Upscale unique shopping and fascinating museums are also on my to-do list. And then there is that stunning trip up the mountainside on the one-of-a-kind Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

I think of all these attractions, but mostly I think of the charming boutique hotels and also the beautifully presented dishes offered by a wide variety of excellent restaurants.

Kris, a fellow adventuresome travel writer, and I recently visited Palm Springs and focused on the small hotels and food. We both stayed in different Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels — I was at The Muse, where I had a modern comfortable suite and was happily entranced by the cheerful colors and sparkling pool with floating flamingoes. Kris stayed at the Lucille Palm Springs, a Spanish Revival property featuring lush, soothing surroundings.  

In a future article I will focus on these hotels and also on the The Velvet Rope, where we enjoyed touring rooms focused on famous celebrity visitors to Palm Springs. But now I want to share the great restaurants we visited. I’ve visited Palm Springs quite a few times and enjoyed many fabulous restaurants, but this time we mainly dined at places new to us, and they were all outstanding.

Azúcar at La Serena Villas

A plate of Shishito peppers at Azúcar at La Serena Villas

Shishito peppers are a great addition to any meal at Azúcar. Photo by Sue Montgomery

We had a lovely late lunch at Azúcar, located on the grounds of the luxurious La Serena Villas, another special Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel. We enjoyed the artistically decorated dining area with its enticing menu. We asked the friendly server to bring us some of his favorite dishes. I started our meal with a tangy margarita, which was the perfect accompaniment to crispy, house-made chips and tasty, chunky guacamole. 

This was followed by yummy blistered Shishito peppers served on an ajo (garlic) blanco-style puree, finished with house-made vinegar and bread crumbs. We also enjoyed charred escarole served with an Italian style salsa verde on a bed of leek puree. Our featured dish was succulent grande Iberico pork rack with roasted shallots on a bed of mostarda sauce (made of candied fruit and mustard syrup). The scrumptious vanilla bean pudding topped with whipped cream and served with warm churros was the perfect ending to our wonderful lunch.

Freddie’s Kitchen at The Cole Hotel

A bowl of French onion soup in a white crock from Freddie's Kitchen

A warm bowl of French onion soup is a treat at Freddie’s Kitchen. Photo by Sue Montgomery

After checking into our hotels we met a friend at Freddie’s Kitchen at The Cole Hotel, a newly remodeled small hotel. The atmosphere is fun and casual with food reflecting what the chef describes as “French California cuisine with a focus on France but an international flair.” Chef and owner Frederic Pierrel was born in Alsace, France, and studied cuisine in his native country. This is where he learned to love using seasonal ingredients as he does at Freddie’s. Appropriately, we all started our meals with savory French onion soup. My entrée was Australian barramundi al la plancha, which was delicious. (“Plancha” is a Spanish term meaning cooked on a very hot flattop grill.)  This special fish dish was flavorful but mild. The French-style dark chocolate mousse for desert was a wonderful cap to to an enjoyable meal.

Farm Palm Springs

A plate with a salmon and egg crepe on it topped by a salad

The salmon crepe at The Farm Palm Springs. Photo by Sue Montgomery

Early the next morning, three of us had breakfast at the Farm Palm Springs, a popular spot featuring farm-to-table Provencal dishes in an enchanting country patio setting.  We each ordered different varieties of crepes. I had a delectable crepe full of portobello and shiitake mushrooms, Gruyère cheese, and crème fraiche. It was truly heaven. One of my friends enjoyed a crepe bursting with salmon and spinach, while the other loved her sweet crepe filled with Nutella, chocolate, and strawberries. The atmosphere was warm and gracious. We will definitely return to this welcoming cafe, which is also open for lunch and dinner.

The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge

A plate of smashed cucumbers at Sparrows Lodge

The unique smashed cucumbers dish at Sparrows Lodge. Photo by Sue Montgomery

After a relaxing afternoon, we were mesmerized during dinner by the magical allure of the Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge, another PSPSH hotel in a lovely setting with twinkling lights adding to the outdoor patio’s ambiance. Our meal began with cocktails and appetizers. We savored the beautifully presented hummus served with cucumber, Kalamata olives, pickled onion, and grilled pita. We also ordered smashed cucumbers, an intriguing dish enhanced by salsa, scallions, peanuts, sesame seeds, and festive cucumber flowers. I am a cucumber lover and this was the most creative presentation of the vegetable I’ve ever tried.

We each ordered a different entrée. My vegetarian dish was roasted organic cauliflower steak served with marble potatoes and topped with a tasty red pepper saffron sauce and shaved fennel. Kris adored her mole, which featured a half chicken smothered in a savory sauce with steamed rice and pickled onion, and our friend Kathy enjoyed the Baja striped bass on a bed of grilled sweet corn, summer squash, Italian peppers, and braised kale. As if we had room for more, we shared a truly decadent chocolate pot de crème made of a passion fruit gel and coconut streusel. (Kathy raved that this was one of the best desserts she had ever eaten.) The Barn Kitchen has an enticing menu of appealing, unique dishes and we all agreed that we would like to stay at the Sparrows Lodge and enjoy this wonderful restaurant again.

Three blonde women hold up their glasses to cheers at The Barn Kitchen's outdoor table

Friends enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of Sparrows Lodge. Photo courtesy of Sue Montgomery

These are just four of the many special restaurants in Palm Springs. Palm Springs is beckoning me to return for a week (or more) so I can stay in charming small hotels and enjoy different wonderful restaurants every day. I would not run out of an abundance of tempting choices.

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Enjoy Specialty Cocktail Delivery in Palm Springs

Imagine the days of Greta Garbo, Marilyn Monroe, and Frank Sinatra. Envision them sitting by the pool sipping amazing cocktails and enjoying a Palm Springs hideaway.

These stars and others stayed at many of the boutique Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. And today they each offer an ideal place to take refuge during this time of social distancing. Hoteliers have created standards that will help keep you safe while elevating your stay experience. Palm Springs Hotels are expected to reopen for guests on June 20th.

The following is a list of places that will deliver those very special cocktails to you to enjoy while hanging out by the pool or in your room. Food is required by the liquor control commission with cocktail delivery.

The Tropicale Restaurant  (760-866-1952) Order from 5-8:30 pm. Some special offerings are the Coconut Martini and Basil Lemongrass Mojito which are the most popular drinks. Firecracker Shrimp and Moroccan Lamb Meatballs are popular appetizers. It’s in-house delivery within a 7 mile radius for $10.

Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey  (760-537-1022) Order from 5:30-10 pm. They have an Old Fashioned Kit or the Aviation ready-made cocktail. Delivery is through Postmates. Try the Sandfish Roll or Spicy Tuna Tostados.

Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge  (760-325-8490) GrubHub delivers cocktails in sealed containers. The most popular are the Cosmopolitan and the Margarita. The favorites for food are the Ahi Poke Bowl and the Eight4Nine Burger. Don’t forget to order the Eight4Nine Layer Cake. It is amazing.

El Mirasol Restaurant (760-323-0721) Order between 4-9 pm. Closed on Monday and Tuesday. They provide free delivery in Palm Springs with a minimum $25 order. Some favorites are the Pollo En Mole Poblano and the Queso Fundido Con Chorizo. Their margaritas are wonderful and their guacamole is the stuff of legend.

Dead or Alive Bar Pick up or free delivery Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 2-4 pm.  Call or text 323-572-5702. Try Chef Tanya’s vegan “crack” cheese & crostini. Six bottles of hand selected wine from small growers and makers for $100-$130.

533 Viet Fusion (760-778-6595) In-house delivery staff with a 5 mile radius for $8. Tuesday-Saturday 5-8 pm. They have Cocktails for Two of Thai Basil Lemon Drop, and Keffir Collins. Enjoy them with a Spicy Tuna Spring Roll or a Crunchy Tiger Shrimp Roll. They also own Roly China Fusion, home to the Thai Basil Lemon Drop and the Ultimate Gin & Tonic. Great pairings are the Dim Sum or In-House Made Lobster Popcorn.

V Wine Lounge (760-668-9665) Delivery is free every day from 11 am – 6 pm. Four Specialty Cocktails: Liam’s Bee’s Knees Gin, Mark’s Lynchburg Lemonade Bourbon, Thea’s Cosmo Gin or Vodka, and James’ Lemon Drop Vodka. They also deliver wine. Their specialty, Cheese and Salami plates, include dried fruit, nuts, olives, bread and specialty jam.

Jake’s Palm Springs  (760-327-4400) Takeout and delivery. 40% off wine. For delivery, a $20 minimum order for free delivery at lunch and $40 minimum order for dinner. Favorites are the Blood Orange Whiskey Sour, Cactus Pear Margarita, Palm Canyon Margarita, and Rose Lemon Drop. Suggestions for lunch are the Jake’s Turkey Sandwich and the Crab BLT. For dinner, suggestions are the Chilean Sea Bass and the Seafood Pad Thai. Hours to order are from 12 pm – 2:45 pm and 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm.

Bouschet (760-327-7701) Delivery from 11 am – 4 pm. Free delivery with orders of $50 or more. Some of the cocktails are the Aviation Drink, the Black Box, the Cockpit, and the Mile High Club. Pairings with these drinks are The Club, the Pear Riviera, and the Chop Chop Salad.

Johannes Palm Springs (760-778-0017) Cocktails available only through pick-up. Cocktails include Watermelon Martini, and Pear Martini as well as Sangria by the bottle. Food items delivered by Grub Hub from 1-7 pm. Specialty foods are the Wiener Schnitzel and Raw Brussel Sprouts Salad.

The Paul Bar (760-656-4082) No delivery but curbside pickup. Order Wednesday-Sunday between 4-8 pm for Cocktails to Go in covered jar containers. Try their Curbside Cosmos and Frozen Sidecars. Steak Frites and Pot Roast Thursdays available, too.

Eight4Nine Bottled Cocktails

VWine Bar Special Wines, Salami, and Cheeses

 

Eight4Nine Specialty Cocktail That Can Be Delivered

 

Margaritas Delivered from El Mirasol

 

Cocktails to Go at VWine Lounge

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Melvyn’s, the Iconic Palm Springs Restaurant, Remains a Special Dining Experience

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You Never Have To Leave These Palm Springs Resorts, Part 2

Missed Part 1? Read it here.

Welcome to summer in Palm Springs! This is long — lots to share! — so without further ado, the smaller resorts with restaurants:

Night falls on Arrive Palm Springs. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Arrive Palm Springs — This resort is built to be social, and the poolside restaurant serves snacks and libations including “Poptails” — icy alcoholic popsicles. They used to have another restaurant, but sadly, the local favorite for lunch closed. However, you’ll barely notice the temps when you walk a few storefronts away to the hotel’s coffee shop, Cartel Coffee Lab, and ice cream parlor, Ice Cream & Shop(pe). Just a titch further is 1501 Gastropub by local restaurateurs Chad Gardner and Willie Rhine. Directly across the street from the resort is Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey Bar, which is as trendy as it sounds.

The view from above Fleur Noire. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Fleur Noire Hotel — Initially called Burket’s Trade Winds Hotel, the new owners have reimagined the 1940s hotel and brought its original (heated) pool back to life. Surrounded by lush desert landscaping, the Spanish-style property has 21 casitas, studios, and standard rooms — all eclectic and all designed by Chris Pardo and wallpaper designer Ellie Cashman.

The clubhouse is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a communal pantry, lounge seating, and working and dining areas. They don’t actually have a restaurant, but Rick’s Desert Grill is its next door neighbor. They do, however, have a rosé and champagne speakeasy called La Boisson that will also bring your chilled libation poolside. You can literally have rosé all day.

Welcome to Holiday House. Photo credit: Holiday House

Holiday House — Smack in the middle of downtown and just a bit west of Palm Canyon is Holiday House. This is the sister property of Sparrows Lodge, which is located on the south end of Palm Springs.

Named one of Travel + Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels of 2022, Holiday House is a 21+ property. Please note there are no TVs in the rooms, but honestly, you can do that at home. Your time is best spent poolside, in a very swimmable pool.

The 28-room hipster hideaway has a little restaurant called The Pantry. Lunch is served 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and dinner is from 5 to 9 p.m., and they’ve even got a poolside menu. There aren’t a lot of choices for dinner, but what they do have is pretty scrumptious, which means they’re pretty busy. Locals try to go, but you guys generally have eaten all that deliciousness by the time we get there.

L’Horizon’s cabanas. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

L’Horizon Palm Springs — Originally designed in 1952 by William F. Cody as a retreat for television producer and oil tycoon Jack Wrather and his actress wife, Bonita “Bunny” Granville (yeah, no idea either), L’Horizon has been restored to its original grandeur and is 100 percent squee-worthy.

Located on three acres, the 21+ resort has 25 private bungalows, and the original 2,000 square foot home is available for bookings as well. The living room and yard of the house have unobstructed views of the mountains, and there is a sunken seating area, wood-burning fireplace, dining room, wet bar, kitchen, marble bathrooms with rainforest showers, and an outdoor shower.

When you’re done lazing by the pool, The Spa offers massages, body treatments, facials, and add-ons like peppermint foot therapy and wild lime scalp treatments. Once you’re fully relaxed, stop by Le Shop, a boutique featuring Naturopathica’s skin care and body products, resort wear, swimsuits, jewelry, sunglasses, and home accessories.

And…drumroll…L’Horizon also has a gourmet restaurant called SO•PA that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner (feel free to order poolside as well). Dramatic, refined, and intimate, SO•PA offers a unique alfresco dining experience, and is on everyone in Palm Springs’ bucket list for dining.

The patio at El Mirasol at Los Arboles. Photo credit: Los Arboles Hotel

Los Arboles — The Casteñada family would like to welcome you to their 21-room “home” featuring a rooftop deck, a courtyard pool, hot tub, and home cooked authentic Mexican meals at El Mirasol at Los Arboles. 

I am not kidding you about the authentic food. Mama Casteñeda oversees the kitchen, and all of the dishes are from her recipe box (the box actually lived in her head, and she had no need to write them down until she opened a restaurant).

The restaurant is in a courtyard, and is a local favorite. They also have a sister location on the south end of town, the original El Mirasol. Pair the jalapeño margarita with any dish and you’ll be a very happy camper.

Pull up a chair at Sparrows Lodge. Photo credit: Sparrows Lodge

Sparrows Lodge — The bohemian sister resort to Holiday House also has zero TVs, but man do they have a great swimmable pool and misters all throughout the courtyard. The interiors have a modernist, beachy, farmhouse feel to them. If I’m any indication, you’ll feel a sense of serenity the moment you enter.

Their restaurant is called The Barn and like The Pantry at Holiday House, it’s on everyone’s bucket list. I cannot stress to you enough that you need a reservation, and generally well in advance. Executive Chef Sebastian Lowrey and Sous Chef Daniella Lara have created some wonderful offerings for lunch and dinner, and everyone wants in.

One of Villa Royale’s sparkling pools. Photo credit: Villa Royale

Villa Royale — Gorgeous old bones have been renovated to an even more glorious and contemporary retreat, well off the beaten path in the Deepwell neighborhood. The 21+, 38-suite property has three pools, mountain views, and folks, it is pet-friendly.

With over 50 original pieces of artwork on site, it’s like being immersed in a museum. All of the work was commissioned exclusively for the resort, and artists Sara Radovanovich, Lou Kregal, and Juan Casas lived at the Villa Royale while creating their oil paintings, which feature everything from pop culture icons to desert scenes.

Focusing on Spanish and Mediterranean flavors and led by Chef Louis Martinez, the Del Rey is Villa Royale’s small-plate restaurant. It boasts a beautiful 12-seat oak and marble bar, as well as booths and an outdoor patio with firepit. The cocktail menu is very creative — drink ingredients include black tea ice cubes, saffron syrup, and olive oil — so  get ready to imbibe. 

Coming next Tuesday: resorts with breakfast and lunch served on premise for guests only. Not a local in sight.

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Noche Paella Is A Delicious Indulgence At The Del Rey

A huge pan of paella

Located off the beaten path, tucked away in the Deepwell neighborhood of south Palm Springs, is a very special resort called Villa Royale. Situated on the tony tree-lined Indian Trail, it was built in 1947 next to two of Palm Springs’ old ranches: Smoketree and Deepwell Guest Ranch. Now, the resort is home to the elegant Del Rey restaurant, where during select Thursdays through May diners can enjoy Noche Paella with Chef Jose Ibarra-Sandoval.

My Noche Paella experience

The dark red fireplace and tile in the Del Rey restaurant

Fill up on paella, then warm up by the Del Rey’s fireplace. Photo by Kay Kudukis

After arriving and finding plenty of parking, we walk a short distance past a white stucco to massive open gates that invite us to step inside the glorious courtyard dotted with stone fountains and brick pathways. They lead to the stunning, and I mean stunning pool, sparkling in the setting sun as dusk sets over the evening.

We follow the path to a smaller courtyard, where tapas sit on linen tables and friendly staff pass trays of cava. A request for sparkling water is happily filled by a lovely young lady who lets us know there is more where that came from. Chef provides entertainment in the form of the pièce de résistance: paella bubbling in a gigantic pan. We watch as he adds more ingredients, and then are escorted inside for dinner service.

It’s dark, but well lit. The dark is from the beautiful decor in umber tiles, red leather, and deep warm wood. There’s a fireplace and a gorgeous bar; it’s rich and cozy, old Spain without the Inquisition, luxurious and welcoming. As it turns out, our seats are even cozier, in a quiet alcove where we are greeted with a place card and our menu for the evening.

Note: there is chorizo in a few of the dishes, including the paella. Please keep that in mind, and perhaps enjoy Del Rey on another evening where you can order off the plentiful tapas-style menu.

A meal like none other 

A thank you note to Kay Kudukis

A personalized thank you note is a nice touch. Photo by Kay Kudukis

Our server is professional but also personable, as is all the staff. Incredible service throughout the evening, starting with the plating and service of Pintxo, a Spanish deviled egg with chorizo, green olives, and chives that is delicious and whets our appetites for the temporada salad with peaches, Serrano ham, queso Majorero, spinach, and pimentón vinaigrette. I have no idea what pimentón means, but it is tasty.

Next, we are served empanada de champiñones, which is hands down my favorite, because man, I love me some mushrooms. Chanterelles, leeks, Manchego cheese, with mojo verde and saffron aioli dipping sauces. So good.

And then comes the main event, and Chef! He stops by our table to make sure we are enjoying our evening. Of course we are, it’s fantastic, thank you, Chef! Here’s what’s in his Paella de Mariscos: saffron stock, chorizo, shrimp, mussels, clams, snap peas, and haricot verts. 

Just as we are about to burst, out comes the after: arroz con leche, a.k.a. rice pudding with cream, raisins, and cinnamon and served with almond brittle. I am not a pudding person, but my companion says it is fantastic, and I can attest that the almond brittle is chef’s kiss.

After the end of a lovely evening, we file out through the adorable lobby, where Chef once again is there to say goodbye. We extend our thanks for this exquisite evening of fine dining and go home to dream of matadors in tight pants (who wouldn’t kill the bull). 

This is one of the best fine dining experiences I’ve had in the Valley, and Villa Royale itself is quite enchanting. 

Buen appetito!

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Boutique hotel restaurants to participate in Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week

A woman pours dressing on her shrimp and crab Louis salad at Ingleside Inn in Palm Springs, California

Enjoy dinner and a relaxing stay under one roof

PALM SPRINGS, California (May 24, 2018) — From June 1 to 17, dozens of the best restaurants in the Coachella Valley will participate in Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week, including five restaurants located inside Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels.

Acuzar at La Serena Villas specializes in vegan, vegetarian, and California specialties, with a modern spin. For Restaurant Week, Azucar will offer a $20 two-course lunch and $49 three-course dinner. Standouts on the special lunch menu include the La Serena Lettuce Wraps and cauliflower tacos, while the dinner menu boasts such tantalizing options as pomegranate molasses-glazed lamb chops and sunflower seed risotto stuffed zucchini.

Draughtsman at Arrive Palm Springs has put together an eclectic $20 two-course lunch, with two special burgers among the selections: the Impossible Burger, with gruyére cheese, mushrooms, caramelized onions, and vegan dijonnaise, and the Smash Burger, with American cheese, sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion.

The elegant Melvyn’s Restaurant at Ingleside Inn has all the fine-dining bases covered on its two-course $15 lunch and three-course $39 dinner menus. At lunch, enjoy such classics as Melvyn’s Cobb Salad, Melvyn’s Burger, and elderflower panna cotta, and at dinner, try the fried brie, crab cake, Steak Diane, or chicken paillards.

Reservoir at Arrive Palm Springs says it offers an “approachable, vibrant take on modern Southern California cuisine.” For their $39 three-course dinner, diners will have several plant-based options, including sugar snap peas with arugula, fancy goat cheese, and lemon vinaigrette for a starter and roasted eggplant with corn and herbs for a main dish.

SOPA at L’Horizon Resort and Spa is known for its upscale take on American, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines, and its show-stopping three-course $49 dinner menu boasts three mouthwatering mains to choose from: cioppino raviolo with crab pomme puree, calamari, and salt spring mussels; peri peri jidori chicken; and porchetta.

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Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels is a consortium of independently owned, boutique hotels, which are an essential part of this desert resort town’s unique culture and economy. From quirky, to charming, mid-century modern to clothing optional, Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels has got your stay. Follow the fun on Facebook and Instagram.

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