22 Best Palm Springs Restaurants You Can’t Miss
Is Palm Springs on your list of places to go this summer? Are you reminiscing on the past days of Coachella? While this article might not be about one of the biggest parties in the country every year, it is going to be about places you can eat before or after you’re done partying.
Before you book your next adventure to this corner of California, make sure to look at this list of top Palm Springs restaurants. Palm Springs isn’t just about the parties or the architecture, there is wonderful food, people, and culture, all wrapped up together.
Don’t miss out on the best California cuisine by going to one of the same old destinations that everyone chooses like LA or San Francisco . See what Palm Springs has to offer, I don’t think you’ll regret it!
Let’s get munching and take a look at the top options for the best restaurants in Palm Springs.
1. Jake’s
Address: 664 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
People from Palm Springs know that if there is one place to go for dinner, Jake’s is the place most everyone is going to recommend. This perfect restaurant setting takes pride in making sure its customers are comfortable, always having fun, and of course, that the food is top-notch.
The charming courtyard atmosphere is set under the desert sky with the peaceful sounds of a fountain in the center. Of course, you can dine inside the establishment if it gets a bit chilly outside (although this isn’t likely apart from at night).
The vibe at Jake’s is “always have a good time” and this is the best restaurant to visit if you want to feel like you’re at a dinner party with friends every time you visit (the co-owners designed it that way!).
Sadly, Jake the West Highland Terrier (whom the restaurant is named after) passed away a few years ago. But keep your eye out for Jackson, Jake’s great-great-grandson, who runs around the restaurant from time to time if he isn’t napping in the upstairs office!
Make sure when you’re paying for the delicious meal at Jake’s that you use your American Express Platinum card to rack up some points.
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2. Bill’s Pizza
Address: 119 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Bill’s Pizza is sure to not leave you disappointed. If you ever talk to anyone from Palm Springs they will tell you if you’re looking for a pizza parlor, Bill’s is the only acceptable answer.
The story goes that Bill was on a quest to create some of the best pizzas in the world, which led him to Italy and all over the United States. He explored a wide range of pizza-making techniques, found what he liked best, and opened Bill’s Pizza shortly after.
Together, the award-winning kitchen staff of Bill’s Pizza has over 70 years of collective experience in the culinary arts. You can’t get much better hands to make you a delicious world-class pizza! Also, this James Beard award-winning restaurant has been named one of the Top 100 Pizzerias in the U.S.
Try one of the 22 different varieties of pizza combinations they have, otherwise, there is a build-your-own option, of course. Their gas-fired brick ovens deliver a fast, high-heat to your pizza to cook it evenly and efficiently. I’m getting hungry for pizza just from looking at all of their pictures!
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3. LULU California Bistro
Opened in 2011, LULU California Bistro has become one of Palm Springs’s hippest restaurants. The expertly crafted menu has designated LULU as one of the hot spots for chic eats in Coachella Valley.
The lively bar scene is juxtaposed with the peaceful setting of downtown Palm Springs. There are several menus throughout the day, as well as award-winning catering services, and a modern venue to host private parties and events. Plus, you can enjoy an all-day happy hour with several featured and signature cocktails.
LULU was named by OpenTable as one of the Top 100 Dining Hot Spots in the U.S. and has been awarded multiple Diners Choice Awards. This is definitely the spot to be on a beautiful summer night in downtown Palm Springs.
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4. La Bonita’s
Address: 330 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
This no-frills Mexican restaurant in Palm Springs has everything you could possibly ever need from a small establishment serving authentic Mexican cuisine.
There is no fancy “deconstructed taco” dish or a $30 margarita. It is just a simple place to get simple dishes made well. You get what you order, and it comes to you piping hot, no-frills, no-fuss, all flavor.
They have all the classic dishes, and I heard if you’re a local or special customer there is even a secret menu that you can order from! I got to see a sneak peek of the secret menu, and something that popped out to me was the “Flaming Hot Cheeto taco shell”. Anyone who knows me knows that Flaming Hot Cheetos are one of my weaknesses.
Of course, the make-your-own-taco menu and kids’ menu are always available, but their standard menu is big enough to leave your belly full and you’ll be pleased with this dining choice in Palm Springs.
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5. Al Dente
Address: 491 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Considered one of the best Italian restaurants in Palm Springs, Al Dente is known to cook up some of the most delicious Italian food in the entire valley.
The classic dishes of course include homemade pasta, risotto, traditional meat, and fish dishes, and decadent dessert options to fulfill that sweet tooth. I’ve heard they steam their mussels to perfection as well!
And of course, we can’t forget the wine. Their list is well-curated and extensive. This establishment is perfect for a variety of occasions including birthdays, work meetings, or simply a friendly get-together. Al Dente is sure to make the most of your evening with friends and family.
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6. Pomme Frite
Address: 256 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Are you craving Belgian or French food while you are enjoying your time in Palm Springs? Look no further because this is the ultimate Belgian & French restaurant in Palm Springs.
Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, the authentic European feel will bring you directly to the vibe and ambiance of Brussels.
Since opening, Pomme Frite has gained serious attraction from self-proclaimed foodies to food experts. Their perfectly prepared simple dishes are served with that extra love and care that shows in every bite.
Choose from a variety of different options on the menu, which specialize in Belgian dishes. Who could pass up steamed mussels and a Flemish-style beef stew simmered in Belgian beer?
Everyone who comes through the doors is always commenting on how good it always smells, with different aromas that permeate the air in a way other cuisines cannot compete with.
And this place is truly known for its mussels, so shellfish lovers; come with empty stomachs because they will surely be full after finishing a meal at Pomme Frite!
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7. Thai Smile
Address: 100 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Thai Smile was opened in 1991 by a talented chef named Yim (which means “smile” in Thai!). The current owners are Yim’s son Mai, and his wife, Noi. This delightful eatery has been a staple of Thai food in Palm Springs for many years, and hopefully for many years to come!
The food is so good that Thai Smile was awarded the Thai Select Seal of Approval by none other than the Royal Thai Government Ministry of Commerce. As you can imagine, this is a prestigious award that isn’t given very easily!
Dedicated to serving the freshest and most authentic handcrafted Thai dishes, Thai Smile uses only fresh and young vegetables that are delivered daily. Premium cuts of meat and seafood are paired with authentic Thai spices and herbs that give each and every dish that true Thai taste.
Each dish is handcrafted and expertly prepared from scratch. Using high-flame woks, the chefs prepare each meal with attention to detail and care for each and every ingredient used.
The establishment respectfully asks customers to wait 20-40 minutes depending on volume, to receive their dish. Taking all the proper steps to prepare each dish with this amount of care takes time, as we know, a perfect dish can never be rushed!
If you are looking for the top Thai restaurant in Palm Springs, search no more because you’ve already found it.
Want some takeout in Palm Springs? The good news is that Thai Smile is available on Doordash for delivery or takeout.
If you are flying quite often, and find yourself in Palm Springs, make sure you’re using AwardWallet to earn all the points and redeem them for exclusive offers and deals on flights, hotels, and much more.
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8. Copely’s on Palm Canyon Drive
Address: 621 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
When the New York Times does a review of your restaurant you know your establishment is kind of a big deal. They had this to say about Copley’s: “The hottest place is Copley’s on Palm Canyon, a lively restaurant in a rustic-chic cottage that was once home of Cary Grant.”
Cary Grant, yo! The 1940’s former guesthouse of Cary Grant, the famous English-American actor, has been converted into Copley’s on Palm Canyon Dr.
This establishment is a casual restaurant with a sophisticated feel to it. Sit in either a friendly section of the indoor or outdoor seating areas for a beautiful night in Palm Springs.
Opening its doors in 2004, Copley’s on Palm Canyon became one of the premier restaurants in Palm Springs and has been serving superior quality food ever since.
The menu is a staple of contemporary American cuisine filled with unique and exciting elements. This is why they’ve been rated time and time again by Zagat’s and the New York Times.
The best part about the outdoor patio is the fact that they are dog-friendly! This is one of the few dog-friendly restaurants in Palm Springs.
So bring your pooches to enjoy the sunshine on the patio while you savor your delicious meal at Copley’s on Palm Canyon.
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9. FARM
Address: 6 La Plaza, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
After traveling to the South of France, owner Liz Ostoich fell in love with her travels to the region. She wanted to share her experiences with everyone and decided she wanted to open a restaurant that served similar style food from the beloved region of France.
The dishes that are created by the chefs at FARM are locally sourced, which include all of their eggs, produce, and artisanal meats. FARM is considered a genuine farm-to-table restaurant in Palm Springs.
The owners and staff of FARM want every dish to deliver a unique and extraordinary sensory impression that is long-lasting on your tastebuds.
The garden patio and floral landscaping really shine in the desert sun during the summer months. The authentic menu transports you to parts of France that just aren’t achievable at most establishments.
The restaurant itself is traditional Provencal-style, and the menu is carefully crafted to create perfect traditional French dishes.
Coffee is served French-press style, and each tea is loose-leaf, meaning it takes longer but tastes better.
Jams and sauces are made in-house with care in every dish, keeping a close eye on tastes, aromas, and textures. There are zero freezers and microwaves, as each dish is hand-prepared by chefs with incredible attention to detail.
Sit in the peaceful setting of downtown Palm Springs and soak up some sun while eating at one of the only farm-to-table restaurants in Palm Springs.
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10. Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey
Address: 1556 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Engin Onural’s newest establishment is on the rise in Palm Springs. Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey is a new up-and-coming sushi bar that is stocked with just about every whiskey you could possibly imagine.
With new, fresh, and elevated dishes, Chef Engin is bringing new levels of taste to the sushi game.
With patio seating and to-go orders, Sandfish is the popular choice among foodies in Palm Springs right now. The Scandinavian-designed interior pairs nicely with the food that you’ll be eating (or should I say experiencing).
Start the night off right with hand-crafted sushi and whiskey pairings. Choose from a number of different appetizers, and follow them up by ordering a number of delicious rolls and/or Nigiri Sushi.
End the night with matcha cheesecake and their French-press coffee.
Of course, if whiskey isn’t your thing, there are several wineries and vineyards just around the corner. Viator offers a Palms to Vines Wine Tasting from Palm Springs that lets you sample up to 18 wines over the course of 7 hours.
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11. Cheeky’s
Address: 622 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
According to their website, Cheeky’s have started an egg revolution in Palm Springs! They’ve been open for over a decade and they’ve gained quite the cult following both from Palm Springs locals, and well-versed travelers.
Their home-style comfort food is now paired with the name Cheeky’s and is well-known throughout Palm Springs. Only open for breakfast and lunch, their innovative and fresh menu changes weekly.
They use the freshest local ingredients, sourced from Palm Springs and surrounding areas. There are fresh takes on the classic breakfast, brunch, and lunch items, with all the good vibes the desert sun can provide. There is a lovely outdoor patio, as well as indoor seating.
Pastries are a Palm Springs-famous menu item at Cheeky’s. Handcrafted and rolled by a man known as Phil, these decadent cinnamon rolls are freshly made every day and are almost always sold out by the end of the day.
Let me just leave this right here…they have a bacon flight. Five strips of different types of bacon right in front of you, what more could you ask for? I don’t think I need to say anymore. I’ll wait for your response.
12. The Purple Palm at the Colony Palms Hotel
Address: 572 N Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
The Colony Palms Hotel was originally built in 1936 by reputed Purple Gang Mobster Al Wertheimer, as a saloon, speakeasy, and gambling house. It became a hotspot for legendary Hollywood icons Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Humphrey Bogart to name a few!
At the heart of this Palm Springs hotel lies the all-day poolside restaurant, the Purple Palm. This glamorous restaurant is everything your 1930’s and 1940’s dreams are made of, with stunning decor, gorgeous mountain views, and a brunch menu that’s to die for.
13. King’s Highway at Ace Hotel & Swim Club
King’s Highway at Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Address: 701 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
This ultra-cool twist on a traditional roadside diner is located inside the Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs.
The menu is Californian-Mexican and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It features such delicious entrees as the fried chicken sandwich, the rack of lamb, the Twin Palms Burger, and the King’s Highway Breakfast, which is available all day!
You can also visit the hotel’s bar The Amigo Room for some specialty cocktails and alcoholic slushies.
14. Bar Cecil
Address: 1555 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Contrary to its name, Bar Cecil is not just a bar – it is also a stunning, artistic restaurant, full of chic finishes and signed photos of famous artists. It is a tribute to British artist and photographer Sir Cecil Walter Hardy Beaton and features many of his own iconic photographs throughout the restaurant.
Bar Cecil features a bistro menu that incorporates classic European and American bistro food, including the smoked bone-in pork chop, pan-seared halibut, and Ratatouille.
This restaurant is truly something to see if you’re able to get a reservation to fill one of its 75 seats. Guests rave about its effortless “sexy and chic” atmosphere and its perfect backdrop for a date night.
15. Counter Reformation
Address: 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr #5230, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
While technically a wine bar hidden inside the Parker Hotel, Counter Reformation is also home to some seriously excellent food.
Its dedicated menu has plenty of small plate options that pair excellently with several of its 17 wines. This includes the charred black pepper beef carpaccio, the avocado, halloumi and rye tartine, and the sea urchin escabeche.
If you’re looking for some seriously cool (not to mention historic) decor, then you’ll be interested to find a wooden confessional flown in from Italy sitting in this wine bar.
This restaurant/bar does not take reservations and its bar only has 14 seats, so the sooner you can get there, the better.
16. Spencer’s Restaurant
Address: 701 W Baristo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Looking for the perfect place to have a stylish and comfortable Sunday brunch? Look no further than Spencer’s Restaurant in the San Jacinto Mountains.
Spencer’s is considered fine dining, serving upscale American cuisine at what is certainly upscale prices.
Spencer’s was not only voted as the favorite for Sunday brunch by locals, but also the best outdoor dining, the best chef, the best wine list, the best caterer, the best power lunch, and the most romantic – that’s a lot of bests!
With their newly expanded indoor dining room and their hard-to-beat patio, Spencer’s is a stunning venue to celebrate any occasion.
17. Boozehounds Palm Springs
Address: 2080 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Boozehounds Palm Springs doesn’t have a dog as their mascot for nothing. In fact, their motto is “where dogs bring their humans”, which should tell you that they actually want your pup there – probably more than they want you.
In all seriousness, their entire restaurant is dog-friendly, which is fantastic for those who want to dine with their pooches in a completely pet-friendly environment.
At over 7,000 feet, their venue features a super stylish open-air atrium, a cabana bar, and a patio. The menu is Southern California inspired with an Asian influence, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that focus on what’s currently in season.
You can find such delectable dishes as the Adobo Chicken, Miso Chilean Fish and Chips, and the Thai Beef Larb on their entree menu, and Churro French Toast and Coconut Lime Pancakes on their brunch menu. Yum.
18. French Miso Cafe
Address: 19 La Plaza, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Have you ever had French and Japanese fusion? You now have your chance at French Miso Cafe! This delightful cafe was started by Tomoko Jones and Eric Bovy, who banded together to meld the cuisine of their cultures into something new and original.
The patio of French Miso Cafe is floral and stunning and the entire menu allows you to enjoy both Japanese and French cuisine at the same time. What could be better?
Enjoy eggs benedict, the bento, or grilled salmon salad for weekend brunch, or enjoy a selection from their set dinner menu. Note: French Miso Cafe is closed for Summer 2022 and will reopen in September!
19. The Pink Cabana at Sands Hotel & Spa
Address: 44-985 Province Wy, Indian Wells, CA 92210, United States
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
While not right in downtown Palm Springs, this Moroccan-influenced restaurant is only a 30-minute drive away, and trust us – it’s worth it!
First of all, we need to talk about the design of this restaurant. Designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the Pink Cabana is modeled after Palm Springs’ classic tennis and racquet clubs of the ’50s and ’60s. It screams retro, while simultaneously incredibly modern.
The Pink Cabana features Mediterranean cuisine, but with a Moroccan influence, and is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and of course, brunch.
They carefully select wines from Mediterranean climates that pair perfectly with their appetizers and entrees. These include the Local Mushroom Tagliatelle, the Hawaiian Dayboat Selection, and the Niman Ranch Pork Tenderloin.
20. Ruben and Ozzy’s Oyster Bar & Grill
Address: 241 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
If you’re looking for a chill atmosphere with excellent food and even an open-view kitchen, then Ruben and Ozzy’s is the place for you.
The fish tacos are a must-have and have earned co-owners and brothers Ruben and Ozzy their fantastic reputation. Known for their friendly service and charisma, the two brothers specialize in all kinds of seafood dishes.
From clam chowder to crab enchiladas, to oyster shooters, Ruben and Ozzy know seafood. Stop by for lunch or dinner all week long for a great meal and see what everyone’s talking about!
21. Koffi
Address: 650 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
We couldn’t forget all you specialty coffee lovers out there!
This caffeine paradise actually has three locations, being the north, central, and south locations. Preferred by locals over big, overpowering coffee chains (cough, Starbucks), Koffi has an excellent selection to choose from.
From ice coffee to a coffee freeze, to a cold brew fusion, you’re completely covered if you prefer a great selection of iced coffee in the summertime.
Pair it with an oversized gourmet muffin or a yogurt parfait, and you’re ready to start your day!
22. Rooster And The Pig
Address: 356 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Last but not certainly not least is the Vietnamese restaurant, Rooster and the Pig.
Rooster and the Pig is a seriously popular spot for both delicious Vietnamese food and craft cocktails. Their pork belly fried rice with spicy okra is one of their most popular dishes – so much so that customers often line up out the door to get it!
Established in 2015, Tai Spendley created his menu drawing from his many culinary influences. While prominently featuring his Asian heritage, he also incorporates French techniques and bi-coastal influences.
Interestingly, the dishes in this restaurant are purposefully portioned in order to encourage the table to order a variety of items to share.
This dine-in-only, no reservations accepted restaurant is worth the wait though and features industrial-chic decor and a friendly atmosphere.
Not only is there an abundance of things to do and places to stay in Palm Springs, but an unlimited amount of fantastic restaurants to choose from. What are you waiting for?
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