15 Must-Try Palm Springs Restaurants | Best Restaurants in Palm Springs CA, Updated April 2024 (2024)

What can I say about Palm Springs? It’s Palm Springs. Where the desert meets Hollywood with mid-century cool. Although it’s known for world-class mid-century modern architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright, mid-century architecture and design translate beyond design but a state of mind. The architecture of Palm Springs is not limited to dwellings; the food scene reflects the same quality of thought and product.

You can’t help but love Palm Springs for the joyous way it embraces food and drink. There is an impressive array of bars and restaurants with inventive menus to choose from. Here are a handful of my best restaurants in Palm Springs from my first-time visit to this sun-fueled mecca. I don’t want to use another cliché like top-notch or world-class, but it is, with a California twist.

Hey, we’re the Foodie Flashpackers, experts at reviewing restaurants in the USA, and committed to trying out the best foods available to us! In this article, we’ll review the food scene in Palm Springs, CA.

The 15 Best Restaurants in Palm Springs, CA

The Best Downtown Palm Springs Restaurants

Inka Peruvian Cuisine

360 N. Palm Canyon Drive // +1-760-992-5311

Inka Peruvian Cuisine was a terrific find on an afternoon spent wandering about downtown. This is one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs that swept me away from the desert and into the Peruvian highlands to feast on creations of seafood, meats, and Peru’s native potato. The recipes are pure traditional Peruvian, no fusions on the menu here.

They have the freshest ceviche—Peru’s signature dish—and lots of different meat and rice plates. The Tiradito de la Casa was lovely, fine strips of raw fish topped with a piquant yellow pepper sauce that added a special burst.

In large white ceramic bowls, the soups are a meal unto themselves. The Parihuela soup was chunks of crab, seabass, shrimp, and more, seasoned with aji panca hot pepper, garlic, cilantro, and red wine, making a hearty tomato soup. Parihuela resembles an Italian Cioppino, but the flavor is distinctly delicious. This spicy delight pairs nicely with an ice-cold Cristal cerveza.

While Latin American countries are typically known for their meats, Inka offers several vegetarian options, like the Choclo con Queso, a local corn dish with queso fresco.

For a change of pace while in Palm Springs, saunter on over to Inka Peruvian Cuisine.

The Tropicale Palm Springs

330 E Amado Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States // +17608661952

The Tropicale Palm Springs is a vivid oasis in Palm Springs, characterized by a neon-lit façade that transports you to a retro-tropical paradise the moment you arrive.

The vibrant samba music that greets you at the door sets a playful and energetic tone, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s colorful and eclectic decor.

This festive eatery boasts an eclectic menu that caters to a variety of tastes, featuring everything from succulent seafood dishes to hearty steaks.

The indoor seating area radiates a cozy charm, while the dual patios offer a delightful al fresco dining experience, making it ideal for enjoying the balmy Palm Springs evenings.

The boneless fried chicken dinner was a true delight—juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside. My companion enjoyed the Flat Iron Steak, which was tender and flavorful.

The drinks menu was equally impressive; the Raspberry Lemondrop Martini was exceptionally crafted, delivering a potent and refreshing kick.

Similarly, my friend’s Manhattan was mixed to perfection, prompting him to declare it the best he’s ever enjoyed.

The service at The Tropicale truly made our evening special. The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensured that our dining experience was seamless from start to finish.

Given the venue’s popularity, I strongly recommend making a reservation to secure a table.

For those looking to explore the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Palm Springs, The Tropicale is a must-visit.

The original and carefully crafted co*cktails, combined with a selection of tantalizing finger foods, make it an ideal spot for both dining and leisurely evenings spent sipping under the stars.

Grand Central

160 La Plaza // +1-760-699-7185

Grand Central is a stellar neighborhood bistro and bar set within the old Desmond’s Department Store building, lovingly renovated by their wonderful owners John and Rita and is another one of the Best Palm Spring Restaurants. The tradition of “meeting under the clock” is alive and thriving here in a spacious modern industrial-style dining room. There are a few reasons why it’s one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs.

Featuring modern California fresh cuisine, you can indulge in brunch, lunch, or dinner. The creative fare is seasonal modern American. if you’re looking for the best breakfast in PalmSprings you might have Rita’s Breakfast: stacked arugula, heirloom tomato, oyster mushroom, poached egg, and avocado. In other words, a plateful of yum.

For lunch or dinner, the watermelon gazpacho starts you off right with layered flavors of watermelon, tomato, and strawberry accented by pink peppercorns providing a warm kick. Follow with a goat cheese panko crust mixed green salad, completing a light start to the meal.

I opted for the Lamb Bolognese in a savory Mediterranean red sauce. The house-made pappardelle was springy to the bite. The whole combination was rich and toothsome. The Citrus Beurre Blanc Salmon with sauteed spinach or the Chicken Milanese in a lemon-caper sauce is another favorite. The wine list is lovely, featuring top California whites and reds for the perfect accompaniment.

Grand Central offers a $39.00 4-course Prix Fixe dinner menu featuring wine for $8.00 a glass.The food here is excellent as is the service and it’s a wonderful Palm Springs establishment. Reservations are recommended for dinner.

Rooster And The Pig

356 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States // +17608326691

Next up is Rooster And The Pig, a stylish, industrial-chic eatery that offers a refreshing take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine, complemented by an array of craft co*cktails.

This restaurant was a top priority during my visit to Palm Springs, and it certainly lived up to the hype.

The fusion of a modern, trendy atmosphere with the authenticity of Vietnamese cooking creates a dining experience that is both comforting and exotic.

The interior, cozy and inviting, features walls adorned with old Vietnamese newspapers, adding a touch of historical charm.

The menu is a creative exploration of Vietnamese flavors, presenting unique dishes that stand apart from your typical Vietnamese fare.

We started with the congee, which was excellently prepared and set a high standard for the following dishes.

The crispy rice ball in curry and crispy okra were standout items, both divine in taste and presentation.

The crispy beef noodles, notably on the sweeter side, were equally impressive and delicious.

Rooster and The Pig is definitely a restaurant I’d recommend highly. Due to its popularity, making a reservation is a must, especially since the place tends to fill up quickly right at the opening at 5 p.m.

For anyone looking for a unique twist on Vietnamese cuisine in a chic setting, this restaurant is a must-visit in Palm Springs.

Las Casuelas Terraza

222 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States // +17603252794

Las Casuelas Terraza is a vibrant family-owned restaurant that offers a unique blend of Mexican cuisine with an American twist.

This bustling location is not only large, but it also features an expansive outdoor patio complete with a stage for live music, creating an exhilarating atmosphere that’s perfect for dining out with family and friends.

The welcoming staff made us feel right at home. Our waiter led us to a cozy nook overlooking the stage, providing an intimate setting amidst the larger vibrant environment.

The restaurant offers a variety of seating options, catering to different preferences and occasions.

The food at Las Casuelas Terraza is a delightful exploration of authentic Mexican flavors. I started with the Aguachiles, which featured succulent shrimp, English cucumber, and red onions marinated in fresh lime juice with a hint of zesty jalapeño.

They were topped with avocado and served in a large glass goblet—an exquisite and refreshing dish.

For my main course, I enjoyed the Enchiladas Suizas with both chicken and shrimp. These were generously served with pinto beans and rice, and topped with Monterrey Jack cheese, sour cream, and a side of salsa. The flavors were robust and satisfying.

I also recommend trying the large Margarita Fresca. Made with Casamigos blanco, fresh lime, and your choice of house-made agua fresca liqueur—options include Jamaica, Blood Orange, or Tamarindo—it’s a refreshing accompaniment that lasts throughout the meal.

Situated in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Las Casuelas Terraza is a must-visit destination.

Whether you’re a visitor looking to experience a taste of local culture or a resident in search of a lively dining spot, this restaurant offers a memorable and enjoyable experience that invites frequent returns.

Johnny Costa’s Ristorante

440 S. Palm Canyon Drive // +1-760-325-4556

If you’re looking for an iconic old-school Italian affair with a celebrity history, then Johnny Costa’s is your place. Family-owned since the 1970s, they’re a Palm Springs Life Readers’ “Best of the Best.”

Johnny Costa got his Hollywood start at Patsy D’Amore’s Villa Capri Restaurant where he first met Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack pals. The friendship continued as Johnny set up shop at Tony Riccio’s Club Trinidad in Palm Springs.

Sinatra moved West in the 1960s, began frequenting Palm Springs, and the two became close. In time, Johnny evolved into the performer’s personal chef at his desert home. Frank in turn became a cherished patron as Johnny opened his namesake eatery.

Today, the quality of the experience lives up to its storied history. The recipes hew true to Johnny’s own classic Italian recipes. The Antipasto for Two is a case in point—delectable, marinated veggies and Italian meats with Greek olives and provolone cheese.

Veal figures prominently on this menu. The Veal Piccata—medallions in a sauteed butter, lemon, caper, and wine sauce—is a mélange of velvety richness. The Milanese Veal Osso Bucco is truly sumptuous, with a fall-off-the-bone succulent braised shank surrounding a massive bone full of marrow in red wine, tomato, and vegetable-based sauce.

For the less adventurous, there’s killer spaghetti and meatballs. The Steak Sinatra is cooked just like for Frank, well-trimmed New York Steak strips, wonderfully pan-seared, and sautéed with garlic, mushrooms, and bell peppers in a superb red wine sauce.

For dessert, try the house made Cannoli’s. And the Tiramisu. You will find the room to finish.

For a classic Italian feast in Palm Springs, Johnny Costa’s is your go-to and one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs in general.

Restaurants That Offer The Best Brunch in Palm Springs

Cheeky’s

622 N. Palm Canyon Drive // +1-760-327-7595

Cheeky’s is the best place for a healthy breakfast in Palm Springs, served fresh and rapid-fire! It’s located right on a busy stretch N. Palm Canyon Drive behind the fabulous Alcazar Hotel, a project of the same owner. Here’s why it’s one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs.

Their menu offers classics dressed up in a bit of fancy, like the Scramble with Smoked Salmon, leeks, and Boursin cheese with a toasted bagel. The service couldn’t be better, food came out in under 10 minutes made with the freshest ingredients. All dishes are designed to be easy and quick to make from scratch in their tiny kitchen.

I started with the Cheeky’s signature Spicy Bloody Mary. This hearty version features vegetable-infused vodka in their house-made mix and comes in a boot with a stack of fixings: onion slices, green beans, red pepper, a huge lemon wedge, and an optional thick slice of bacon.

The coffee comes in a white mug adorned with their fun red cheeky monkey logo.

If you’re an heirloom tomato fan, you’ll love their sandwich! Thick slices of flavorful heirlooms go fabulously with a thick-cut slice of bacon and nutty arugula, dressed in lemon aioli and topped with a fried egg on house-made sourdough bread. Did someone say bacon? Cheeky’s offers a legendary bacon flight with flavors like lemon zest and coconut sugar complementing the trusty applewood smoked.

Don’t miss their Straus Greek yogurt with paleo granola & berries, a generous bowlful of health. The menu rotates from week to week according to seasonal local fruits and produce but some are staples. A brussels sprouts scramble with onions and cherry tomatoes was another good one, and quite light.

Homemade cinnamon rolls are a winner anywhere, but at Cheeky’s they’re impressive. They come out warm and fresh and glistening! The cake is light, spongy, and dense, made with quality ingredients. The cinnamon and sugar are balanced and don’t overpower the roll. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs.

Townie Bagels

650 E Sunny Dunes Rd #5, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States // +17604594555

Townie Bagels in Palm Springs is a bustling bakery beloved by both locals and tourists, known for its classic boiled bagels, coffee, espresso drinks, and a variety of breakfast and lunch options. This place is consistently busy, a testament to its popularity and the quality of its offerings.

I particularly appreciate that Townie Bagels posts their baking schedule online, allowing me to plan my visits around when my favorite flavors will be fresh out of the oven.

The bagels themselves are exceptional—light, yet satisfyingly chewy with a perfectly crusty exterior.

For those who enjoy a bit of DIY, they even offer a “bake your own” section where you can purchase dough and toppings to create your own bagel masterpieces at home.

I opted for the namesake Townie Sandwich and added a few extras to make it even more delectable.

Beyond bagels and sandwiches, the bakery also offers freshly baked bread loaves and savory scones, catering to a range of tastes.

Their regular brewed coffee was a delightful complement to the meal, striking just the right balance of strength and flavor without any bitterness.

The seating area, though small, includes both indoor and outdoor options, creating a cozy spot to enjoy a meal. It’s clear why Townie Bagels is a favorite among the community.

However, be sure to arrive early as they close at noon or when the bagels sell out, and the queue can grow quite long after 9 AM.

Townie Bagels is definitely a must-visit for anyone looking for a fulfilling breakfast or brunch in Palm Springs.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for a leisurely sandwich, it’s a great place to start your day.

Top Restaurants In Palm Springs And Nearby

1501 Uptown Gastropub

1501 N. Palm Canyon Drive // +1-760-320-1501

I was on the hunt for a really good burger in Palm Springs and had a hunch I might find one at 1501 Uptown Gastropub. Deliver they did.

1501 sits on N. Palm Canyon Drive in a spacious, light-filled pub that was designed by award-winning architect Chris Pardo. Palm Springs restaurateurs Willie Rhine and Chad Gardner—of Eight4Nine and Viet Fusion and Roly China fame—teamed up on this delicious venture and it’s well worth a stop. They’re an Open Table’s 2022 Diner’s Choice.

I could have eaten my way through their terrific list of sandwiches, but I was on a burger mission, by God. The 1501 Burger came out on a gorgeous butter-grilled brioche bun that, unusually, held up well. I discovered a quick love of tomato onion jam which made for a heavenly meld with caved-aged cheddar and smoked bacon. This was a really, really good burger.

The menu is inventive and filled with seasonal ingredients. Some of the dishes are downright decadent, like Willie’s Shepherd Pie, made with slow-braised grass-fed filet mignon, sherry, mirepoix, caramelized mashed red potatoes, English peas, and that yummy cave-aged cheddar.

There’s a vegetarian version with mushrooms. They have a cool co*cktail menu too.

Leave room for dessert, you may want a bite of that lovely Lavender Lemon Crème Brûlée, no?

Sandfish Sushi And Whiskey

1556 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States // +17605371022

Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey is an upscale, intimate venue that perfectly combines the art of sushi making with the craft of whiskey co*cktails.

Set against a backdrop of hip decor, the restaurant offers a cozy outdoor patio setting where we comfortably dined as the sun dipped behind the mountains, casting a serene glow over our evening.

The sushi at Sandfish is sourced globally and boasts an exceptional quality that’s immediately noticeable. We started with the Spicy Tuna tostada, a dish highly recommended by fellow diners, along with a serving of Edamame.

The Tuna tostada was nothing short of spectacular. We then indulged in two of the restaurant’s signature rolls—the Sandfish roll and the Scandinavian roll.

Both were inventive, impeccably presented, and bursting with flavor. Not wanting the experience to end, we also ordered the Caterpillar roll, which was as beautifully prepared as it was delicious.

One important note for first-time visitors: Sandfish prides itself on serving freshly made, order-to-order dishes. During busy times, typically after 6 PM, it’s wise to order multiple items at once.

This approach avoids delays between courses, ensuring a smoother dining experience. Some diners seemed to get frustrated with wait times when ordering dishes one at a time, so it’s best to plan your meal strategically.

Given the restaurant’s modest size and popularity, I heartily recommend making a reservation. Our visit to Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey was a delightful culinary journey filled with unique flavors and exemplary service.

We left feeling fully satisfied and eagerly anticipating our next visit. This is definitely a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a premium sushi experience in Palm Springs.

Windmill Market

17080 North Indian Canyon Drive // +1-760-251-4485

One of the best restaurants in Palm Springs, lies a few miles out of town at a dusty crossroads facing a farm of towering wind turbines. The Windmill Market serves up a killer date shake that you won’t want to miss. It’s a cup full of vanilla ice cream packed with one of the fine agricultural bounties of the Coachella Valley—Medjool dates from a local farmer.

This off-the-beaten-path gem has down-to-earth prices. Their deli sandwiches are generous, I can attest the pastrami is delicious! Or I recommend one of their old-school daily specials like beef stroganoff, meatloaf, or tasty tacos. Plus, you can eat in a cute backyard patio replete with the resident cat.

Mr. Lyons Steakhouse

233 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States // +17603271551

Mr. Lyons Steakhouse in Palm Springs is an upscale, retro-style establishment that exudes an air of timeless elegance the moment you step inside.

The ambiance is a seamless blend of classy and contemporary, with a cool, comfortable feel that instantly suggests you’re in for something special.

The decor, reminiscent of a 1940s setting, perfectly sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

At Mr. Lyons, the emphasis is on the quality and freshness of the ingredients, which is evident in every dish. They skillfully avoid the common pitfall of oversalting, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

The shrimp co*cktail was executed with precision, and the salmon en croute and beef wellington were both exquisite, true to the spirit of their classic recipes.

The beignets were another highlight, served with a flawless trio of side sauces. The artisanal cheesecake, featuring a unique twist with pistachios and tarragon, was a delightful surprise that I particularly enjoyed.

I highly recommend visiting Mr. Lyons for anyone who appreciates fine food in a chic atmosphere. After dinner, make sure to visit their charming speakeasy to enjoy some classic co*cktails.

Whether you’re a connoisseur of good steak or just in search of a dining experience that combines great food with an inviting ambiance, Mr. Lyons Steakhouse is a must-visit in Palm Springs.

Del Rey

1620 S. Indian Trail // +1-760-327-3214

Del Rey is set in the stylish Villa Royale, an adults-only boutique that’s part of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels collection. Vintage is the vibe and Old California/Hacienda is the architecture at this eclectic spot for drinks and Spanish Tapas. A high-end tequila shot is the check-in ritual.

Del Rey’s bar area is tucked behind a picture-perfect pool area, flanked with thick wooden booths along the walls. Adjacent, in a secluded outdoor patio area, the restaurant sits, warmed by heat lamps and a roaring fireplace, protected by stucco walls. The ambiance is dark and intimate.

My group and I sampled a tableful of exquisite tapas plates, generously portioned. The charcuterie board held artfully spread Spanish meats and cheeses, while the fragrant Gambas al Ajillo (Sautéed Garlic Shrimp) sauce made for tasty dipping. Want some more reasons why it’s one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs?

The Bruselas were a unique take on the ubiquitous Brussels Sprout, savory and sweet with a blend of chorizo, dates, romesco, Manchego, and honey vinaigrette. The Coliflor, or cauliflower, rang acidic and sweet, a mix of crunchy almonds, grapes, and sherry vinegar under a caper raisin glaze.

The Chuleta de Cordero was a highlight: two handsomely placed lamb chops marinated in rosemary & lemon accompanied by reconstructed gazpacho salad in a tomato vinaigrette.

Patatas Bravas, naturally, sat well with the lamb, sautéed fingerling potatoes with roasted garlic aioli, brava sauce, and pimento.

To satisfy the romance in you, you’ll want to make a reservation at Del Rey.

Boozehounds Palm Springs

2080 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262, United States // +17606560067

Boozehounds Palm Springs offers a stylish dining environment where not only food enthusiasts but also their canine companions are welcome.

This expansive restaurant features ample indoor and outdoor seating, with the covered back patio specifically designated for guests who wish to dine with their dogs, in compliance with health regulations. Be sure to book this area in advance if you plan to bring your pup along!

The culinary offerings were exceptional across the board. We sampled two appetizers, two entrees, a dessert, and several innovative mocktails, each impressively crafted.

The beef short rib was tender and flavorful, the garlic noodles were aromatic and perfectly seasoned, and the Mexican street corn was a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors.

Additionally, the hotdog was a satisfying surprise, and the yuzu dessert provided a refreshing finale to our meal.

Despite its popularity, the atmosphere inside Boozehounds is remarkably tranquil, aided by a thoughtfully designed interior that promotes relaxation.

There’s also plentiful parking available behind the restaurant, adding convenience to the many reasons to visit.

I highly recommend Boozehounds Palm Springs to both locals and travelers seeking a unique and enjoyable dining experience where both the aesthetic and the menu cater to a sophisticated palate.

Peaks Restaurant

1 Tram Way // +1-760-325-4537

And now, if you want a different approach to taste the best food in Palm Springs, take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 2.5 steep miles up Chino Canyon, the gondola slowly rotating 360 degrees as you rise from the desert floor. Peaks Restaurant is a beauty, sat 4,000 feet straight up from the desert floor on the edge of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park.

The interior is stunning and recently ranked Number 8 onArchitectural Digest’s list of the World’s Best Cliffside Restaurants. Its vintage look blends into the natural surroundings as rock outcroppings and gnarled trees mix with a palette of rock, wood, and glass. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring panoramic views of the skies and of Coachella Valley. Renowned Head Chef John Fritch is at the top of his game here. The menu is elevated American cuisine.

I explored a luscious carpaccio—thin rounds of beef garnished with shaved fennel, capers, wedges of fresh parmesan, and a drizzle of truffle oil with a kick of ancho chili mustard, freshly cracked pepper, and lemon. A cool & crunchy Peaks Wedge Salad was an ideal sidekick, fresh iceberg lettuce cutting the fat.

The Pepper Pork Burger is pure decadence. A full 1/2 pound of Ground Beef topped with Pepper Jack Cheese, Shredded Pork Short Rib, Fried Onions, and Applewood Smoked Bacon.

On the dinner menu, there are the clean flavors of a Free-Range Brick Chicken with Sautéed Spinach and Rosemary Herbed Fingerling Potatoes. Or a sumptuous herb-encrusted Colorado Rack of Lamb Herb with Roasted Heirloom Potatoes, Swiss Chard, in a Rosemary Demi-Glace.

Reservations are highly recommended and I highly recommend this joint as one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs.

Foodies Also Ask: Frequently Asked Questions

What are some local ingredients featured in Palm Springs cuisine?

Palm Springs and the surrounding area are rich in fresh produce that features prominently in local cuisine.

Common ingredients include dates, citrus fruits like grapefruits and oranges, and fresh vegetables from nearby farms.

Chefs often incorporate these into their dishes, reflecting the agricultural bounty of the Coachella Valley.

Dates, in particular, are a staple in the region and can be found in everything from desserts and salads to savory dishes and co*cktails.

Can you find international cuisine in Palm Springs?

Yes, Palm Springs boasts a wide range of international cuisines, reflecting its diverse community and the global tastes of its visitors.

Alongside traditional American and Mexican eateries, you can find Italian, Thai, Japanese, and even Moroccan restaurants scattered throughout the city.

This international presence not only enhances the local food scene but also provides visitors with a myriad of dining options to explore.

How does Palm Springs accommodate dietary restrictions at its restaurants?

Palm Springs is extremely accommodating when it comes to dietary restrictions, with many restaurants offering specific menu options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten sensitivities.

The city’s health-conscious lifestyle drives many chefs to create menus that are not only inclusive but also innovative, using fresh, local produce to craft dishes that satisfy all dietary needs without compromising on flavor.

Visiting other destinations in California? Check out our other delicious guides:

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Which of these best restaurants in Palm Springs will you try first? Let us know in the comments section below!