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.

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

Palm Springs, California, is a mecca for the LGBTQIA+ community and home to some of the most fabulous boutique hotels in the world. Many of our hotels are attached to equally spirited bars and restaurants that serve up some deliciously colorful cocktails.

Today, I’m spotlighting five different bars that are serving up the Top Five “Gayest” Drinks in Palm Springs in honor of our vibrant LGBTQIA+ community. Each bar has its own unique take on their gayest drink, and I’m excited to share them with you.

The “Garden Cooler” at Azucar at the La Serena Villas

Azucar is a cozy little hideaway at the La Serena Villas. The bartender, Manny, served up the Garden Cooler, made with rum, cucumber, basil, lemon, and sugar. This drink was not only refreshing, but it’s also the perfect blend of sweet and tangy. Manny created this drink on the spot for me to review, and I have to say, he hit it out of the park. It’s not too sweet and goes down easy, making it a fantastic drink for a hot summer day. This drink made me feel like a Slim Aarons model from one of his iconic Palm Springs photographs. This drink is not on the menu, but I’m sure Manny will make one special for you upon request. Azucar at La Serena Villas, 339 S. Belardo Road.

The Garden Cooler at Azucar. Photo by Gregory Douglass

The “Hello Kitty Kitty” at Blackbook

Blackbook is in the heart of Palm Springs’ beloved Arenas District. Tom the bartender poured me a Hello Kitty Kitty, made with Portland Potato Vodka, Giffard’s Violette liqueur, club soda, Orgeat almond syrup, and a mammoth rosemary sprig for garnish. This drink has been on the menu since Blackbook first opened, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s sweet, bubbly, and looks like a psychedelic rosemary garden in a glass. Blackbook, 315 E. Arenas Road.

The Hello Kitty Kitty at Blackbook. Photo by Gregory Douglass

The “Lucy Goosey” at Del Rey at Villa Royale

Del Rey is a hip Mediterranean tapas-style joint, tucked inside the Villa Royale hotel. Alejandro was behind the bar, serving up the Lucy Goosey. He made this drink with Grey Goose vodka, orange liquor, raspberry syrup, and lemon, shaken and strained into a coup glass with lime zest. Alejandro created this drink on the spot for me to review, and it tasted like a bowl of frozen sherbet on a perfect summer day. It’s fruity, but not too sweet, and it’s a great drink for any occasion. He chose the name “Lucy Goosey” as an ode to famed Palm Springs celebrity Lucille Ball and the Grey Goose the cocktail was made with. While it may not be on Del Rey’s drink menu, I’m sure Alejandro will make one special for you if asked. Del Rey at Villa Royale, 1620 S. Indian Trail.

The Lucy Goosey at Del Rey. Photo by Gregory Douglass

The “La Passion Pour la Vie” at The Front Porch

The Front Porch, located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, is known for La Passion Pour la Vie, the winner of the Audience Choice Award at the 2020 Palm Springs Craft Cocktail Competition. It’s lovingly made with house-infused apple tequila, mezcal, house-made passion fruit syrup, house-made apple juice, St. Germain, lemon, and a float of pomegranate liqueur, smoked with applewood. The La Passion Pour la Vie is a work of art. It’s as delicious as it looks (the flowers are even edible), and it’s the perfect drink to sip on a warm Palm Springs evening. If “Gayest Drink in Palm Springs” were an official competition, this cocktail wins my vote. The Front Porch, 117 La Plaza.

The La Passion Pour la Vie at The Front Porch. Photo courtesy of The Front Porch

The “Plush Cosmo” at V Wine Lounge

Finally, we have V Wine Lounge, where Doug served up the Plush Cosmo. This drink is made with Plush plum-flavored vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and freshly-squeezed lime juice. This drink is essentially a Cosmo, but the plum-flavored, corn-distilled vodka by Plush takes it to the next level. It’s not too sweet, and the fresh lime really accentuates the flavors. V Wine Lounge, 600 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.

The Plush Cosmo in a martini glass

The Plush Cosmo at V Wine Lounge. Photo by Gregory Douglass

Whether you’re looking for something sweet, tangy, or bubbly, there’s a drink for everyone here in Palm Springs. So come and explore, sip, and savor the flavors. I think it’s safe to say that Palm Springs is serving up some of the best drinks in the world year-round.

The front entrance to Melvyn's Restaurant

By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, much of America will have had their first dusting, if not their first dumping of snow. Not so in Palm Springs! We’re just getting used to the cooler mornings, our warmer afternoons are full of sun and followed by sultry evenings, and you might need a little body heat (or a nice jacuzzi) to stay warm.

This year for Thanksgiving, instead of the inevitable familial bickering, why not enjoy four days in Palm Springs with a group of friends at one of our small resorts, and leave the clashes, the dishes, and cooking behind you?

Here are some boutique hotel options, and read on for where to eat on your special respite of thanks … and fun. I mean, you are in Palm Springs. We’re not Disneyland fun, we’re cool fun. That’s why we always wear sunglasses. (Don’t forget to bring yours so you can be cool too. They also help with our very bright sun.)

Once you’ve got your peeps, your sunglasses, and your hotel sorted, it’s time to figure out who’s gonna be cooking for you this year. All of the below come with at least one starter and a dessert. 

Thanksgiving meals in Palm Springs

Tropicale — Known for its very popular happy hour and buzzy outdoor patio, their entree is herb-roasted Mary’s Farm organic turkey, along with sausage, apple, and sage stuffing, whipped potatoes and turkey gravy, buttered Brussels sprouts, and cranberry apple chutney. You also get a soup or salad option, and three different desserts from which to choose. Featured wines: Rombauer Vineyard Chardonnay and Sokol Blosser Estate Pinot Noir. $84 per person.

Lulu — For those who don’t have a great relationship with turkey, Lulu is a wonderful choice. They have 10 choices of entrees with only three featuring turkey, and there’s a veggie option too. Plus, the atmosphere is pretty groovy. $59.99 per person.

Grand Central — There be turkey and fixins’ here! There also be four non-turkey options, including salmon and steak. For the vegetarians: pumpkin ravioli. Located in La Plaza at Palm Canyon, it’s a very big room so your chances of nabbing a spot are good. $79.99 per person.

Eight4Nine — Spend Thanksgiving at the former Palm Springs Post Office, now home to Eight4Nine. Willie Rhine is one of our favorite local restaurateurs, and Eight4Nine is his most popular restaurant. The four-course meal includes fig ricotta toast, a list of options for your starter and your main (including the very popular turkey dinner), and dessert. All for $76 per person.

Freddie’s Kitchen — Located in The Cole Hotel, this would be a great choice for staying and for Thanksgiving dinner. The French restaurant is serving the classic slow-roasted turkey, but they also have barramundi and grilled seasonal vegetables Wellington. For a starter, choose from soup, salad, or escargot, and the finale has three options for dessert. You don’t even need to leave the hotel. $72 per person, $25 corkage fee.

Melvyn’s — It’s another 2-fer here. Stay at the historic Ingleside Inn and dine in the glory of Melvyn’s. After dinner enjoy a martini at the bar and/or take a stroll around the grounds. Choose between four starters, four mains (including apple cider brined turkey breast), and two desserts. Sides will cost you $14 each on top of the $115 per person cost. It’s pretty Rat Pack-y, and if that’s the vibe you’re going for, it can’t be beat. Plus, you never know who you’ll see in the lounge.

So•Pa — One more 2-fer. Stay at L’Horizon and you’ll not only be treated to an incredibly swanky stay, but also a meal at So•Pa. Their offering is strictly of the turkey variety with all the fixins’ and then some. $95 per person.

Spencer’s — Located in the Class 1 historic Tennis Club on Baristo Road, smack up against the mountains, it’s one of the fancier places to dine in Palm Springs. They have a gorgeous patio they call the Bougainvillea Room where you can eat al fresco. Three starters to choose from, six entrees, and two desserts. $79 per person.

Zin American Bistro — In the heart of downtown, right on Palm Canyon Drive, is local restaurateur Mindy Reed’s Zin. This Thanksgiving there are five options as starters, five as mains (including turkey), and four dessert choices. $69.99 with a 22% gratuity.

Mr. Lyon’s — Probably the most popular steakhouse in town, and always a treat to the palate, this restaurant is located on the south side of town and features a speakeasy called Seymour’s. It’s a terrific dining experience, and for Thanksgiving they are offering four choices of starters, four choices of main (including turkey), and three dessert choices. $95 per person.

Pomme Frite — Zero turkey to be had in this French bistro, but what would you expect? It’s not a French holiday. But if you’re a fan of French bistro food, this just might be your jam. Five choices of starters, entrees and desserts, all very Français. $64.95 per person. 

Trio — Trio took a bit of a hit during the pandemic, but it’s coming back strong with a refresh of the interior and the menu. This Thanksgiving they have a family-style first course, three offerings for mains, three sets of sides served family style, and two desserts from which to choose. If none of those three mains suit you, there’s an a la carte menu featuring 10 extra items. $59 per person.

Palm Springs does Thanksgiving poolside

Thanksgiving experiences

The Purple Room is offering a dining and jazz experience with the Pam Phillips Trio. If you haven’t heard Pam on keys, you haven’t lived. Four choices for starters, five choices for mains (including turkey breast), and three choices for dessert. $79 per person. This club is dressed in an homage to the Rat Pack era, and although it’s not as old as Melvyn’s, it gives it a run for its money on the Rat Pack front.

Finally, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate a special holiday schedule Thursday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 26. The first tram up each day is at 8 a.m. with the final tram at 8 p.m. The last tram down is at 9:30 p.m.

Thanksgiving Day Ride ‘n’ Dine tickets include tram admission and your meal at Pines Café, served from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Their fancy restaurant, Peaks, is also serving a special Thanksgiving pre-fixe menu. Reservations begin at 11 a.m. Tram tickets are not included. The regular menu is also available. 

So why not hit all the right notes this Thanksgiving with a very special holiday away from home? Spend the four-day holiday in Palm Springs where the weather’s perfect, the food is fantastic, the small hotels are gorgeous, and the vibe is Barry White — laid-back and a little suggestive. We can’t help it; the sun makes us frisky. 

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

By: Susan Montgomery

Palm Springs attracts visitors for so many reasons—from its wonderful weather (the best in the country some say) to its charming boutique hotels, but did you know that this fabulous travelers’ destination is also a haven for some of the most imaginative and delicious cocktails in the world?

My travel partner, Linda, and I recently went on a cocktail tour of Palm Springs (admittedly a tough assignment, but someone had to do it). Our tour resulted in some enticing suggestions for any cocktail aficionados out there. You can find many of these cocktails at the bars or restaurants at the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. We were visiting on a hot August day and these cocktails provided refreshing reprieves from the warm weather.

Azúcar at La Serena Villas:

Azucar Cocktails
Spicy Melon and Rosearita Cocktails

We stopped for some small plates and cocktails at Azúcar, the delightful restaurant at La Serena Villas. While all their craft cocktails were tempting, we particularly enjoyed the Rosearita with its complimentary flavors of tequila, rose and pamplemousse liqueurs, lemon and raspberry nectars, highlighted by a rose sugar rim. My tasting colleague (who savors spice) loved the Spicy Melon with Mezcal, jalepeno tequila, aperol, watermelon puree, and lemon and agave nectars. An upstairs patio lounge overlooking the serene pool is the perfect place to enjoy these cocktails. The menu also includes small plates such as the savory chicken lettuce wraps and tasty cauliflower tacos that we enjoyed with our cocktails.

Holiday House:

Holiday House Cocktails
Aperol Spritz and Raspberry Mojito

We enjoyed the cozy lobby bar at Holiday House and, while we did not try any food, the menu was appealing. The Aperol Spritz, made with procesco and orange, was particularly refreshing and beautiful to behold. A Raspberry Mojito was icy and fruity with a subtle sweetness. This would have been the ideal relaxing setting to while away the afternoon, but we had more cocktails to try. We’ll be back.

Cheeky’s:

Cheeky's Bloody Mary
Bloody Mary in a boot glass

Cheeky’s is a popular breakfast and lunch spot adjacent to the lushly-landscaped Alcazar Hotel. I have relished breakfast here several times and have always enjoyed their spicy bloody mary, which is the perfect drink for jump starting a day of touring Palm Springs, especially when accompanied by the restaurant’s popular bacon tasting.

Mr. Lyons and Seymour’s:

Mr Seymour's Copa Cobana
Copa Cabana cocktail
Seymours dessert drint
Custom Dessert Cocktail

Mr. Lyons is a quintessential steakhouse where we enjoyed icy cold martinis with our tender, perfectly prepared filets. Then we adjourned next door to the hidden-away Speakeasy, Seymour’s, where Linda sipped a Copa Cobana, enjoying the unique combination of flavors — rum, coconut, mango, basil and nutmeg.  I adored a luscious dessert cocktail created just for me by Zane, the creative bartender, who concocted my drink with vodka, crème de menthe, and muddled mint—all accented with a dash of Aztec chocolate bitters. We loved sitting at the bar and chatting with Zane in the enchanting ambiance of this special hideaway.

Wexler’s at Arrive:

Smokin' Cukes
Smokin’ Cukes Cocktail
Snowcone
All-American Snowcone

Arrive is a modern 21-room hotel with a rocking, high energy vibe. The cocktails in Wexler’s Deli onsite reflect this hopping tone. We tried a Smokin’ Cuke’s cocktail made with tequila, cucumber, lime, and a black salt rim. It was crispy and refreshing on a steamy Palm Springs afternoon, but the highlight was the icy All-American Snowcone, which looked just like your traditional childhood treat—but with booze, of course. We savored these creative drinks with a delicious Smoked Fish Plate.

Del Rey at Villa Royale:

Villa Royale Cocktails
Permanent Friends and Miami Vice Cocktails

The bar at Del Rey, a welcoming refuge on the Villa Royale property, is dimly lit and romantic, a cool oasis on a warm evening. We can see why this was a popular place for Hollywood celebrities in the 50s to hide out. We enjoyed two special cocktails:  Permanent Friends (great name since I was drinking with a permanent friend) is a complex combination of gin, grapefruit and pineapple juice, jalapeno, vanilla, maple syrup and lime. It went down smoothly but with a pleasant kick. Miami Vice is a tasty combination of rum, coconut cream, strawberry puree, and lime juice.  We enjoyed these drinks with two delectable small plates, one of charred octopus with salsa verde and one called Manchego Bomba, which was lightly deep-fried cheese served with a spicy Calabria aioli.

Of course there are many other great cocktails served all over Palm Springs, but this tantalizing list is the best place to start.

Sue Montgomery, contributor

Susan Montgomery is a travel, food and wine writer who has a special affection for Palm Springs, which is about an hour from her Southern California home. She is on the Board of Directors of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association and in the last several years, she has published more than 300 articles on her blog, Life Uncorked and in other publications.

Two nights a week, guests at Holiday House only have to walk a few steps in order to have a delectable dinner.

The Pantry, under the leadership of Chef Gabriel Woo, has two theme nights every week: Cantina Night on Tuesdays and Fried Chicken Fridays. Inspired by a south-of-the-border fiesta, Cantina Night’s menu includes fun appetizers, like the Papitas con Limon y Chile (potato chips with lime and HH Hot Sauce), and carnitas, chicken tinga, and mushroom tacos. Seafood lovers can order the tostada de ceviche, and for dessert, there’s the indulgent dark chocolate brownie with cinnamon, chipotle, orange, and ice cream. Of course, there are also handcrafted cocktails. Cantina Night runs from 5 to 8 p.m., and reservations aren’t required, but are recommended.

On Fried Chicken Fridays, dinner is served family-style, and the menu changes slightly every week. During a recent meal, diners enjoyed the bucket of vegetables with chive dip and ranch; queso fundido; fried chicken with the chef’s special blend of savory spices; roasted garlic mashed potatoes; local corn and carrots; and for dessert, dark chocolate brownies with peanut butter and ice cream, topped with a Valrhona chocolate sauce. There is limited seating, and reservations are required.

The Pantry is open every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., serving lunch and brunch staples, and the full bar doesn’t close until 11 p.m. nightly. As part of a Holiday House stay, guests receive a complimentary breakfast, including pastries, yogurt, granola, and fruit.

Good news for people who want to try The Pantry, but aren’t staying at the hotel — you can still dine at the restaurant, you just need to make reservations in advance: 760-320-8866.

The Pantry is 21 and over.

Known for their intimate and extraordinary lodgings, several Palm Springs boutique hotels also have on-site restaurants that round out an authentic stay experience. Kitchens are run by chefs dedicated to creating thoughtfully prepared, and often locally sourced, meals with their own twist. 

La Serena Villas

AzucarModern contemporary cuisine with an emphasis and focus on flavor utilizing high-quality, local ingredients.

About Chef Joane Garcia-Colson: A recovering trial lawyer turned chef who left the practice of law to pursue her true passion – cooking. After graduating with both honors and distinction from the Arizona Culinary Institute, she threw caution to the wind and established dish Creative Cuisine in 2012. In January of 2018, Joane had the opportunity to take the culinary helm at Azucar in La Serena Villas in Palm Springs. “When I walked in the door of La Serena Villas, I fell in love with the property and couldn’t wait to bring my passion and love of food to Azucar.” Joane and her team are dedicated to excellence and strive to provide their guests with a creative, delicious and memorable dining experience.

Ingleside Inn

Melvyn’s:  Elegantly upbeat and the home of authentic Hollywood glamour with classic dishes and PlumpJack wines. The Casablanca Lounge at Melvyn’s is known for its nightly entertainment and the popular Sunday Night Jam Sessions featuring guest musicians and singers. No shorts, flip-flops, or baseball caps are permitted in the dining room.

About Chef Jennifer Towne: A graduate of the New England Culinary Institute, Town studied at Northern Italy’s Ristorante La Torre under Chef Patrizia Grossi, head chef for the Italian Olympic Team in Salt Lake City, Athens and Torino, Italy. She then went on to become junior sous chef at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas where she trained under a master French pastry chef and oversaw all aspects of food preparation within a four-star hotel. After three years of island life, Town relocated to Palm Springs to be part of the opening culinary management team for the Ace Hotel & Swim Club. In her role as executive sous chef, Town planned menus with an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients for the hotel’s restaurant, bar, pool, in-room dining and banquets. Town also served as executive chef of the Purple Room Supper Club, a former Rat Pack hangout and destination for Palm Springs residents and travelers alike.

Interview with Executive Chef Jennifer Town (from spring 2018):
ttps://www.palmspringslife.com/melvyns-palm-springs/

Alcazar

Cheeky’s: Chef: Genuinely local. Small farm food, responsibly sourced meats and fresh local produce. Modern space for creative breakfast & lunch sandwiches, bacon flights & specialty cinnamon rolls. Chef: Jose

Birba: Modern Italian restaurant with a changing menu of global eats and craft cocktails. Chic, tree-filled patio. Chef: Eric

About local chef, restaurateur and hotelier, Tara Lazar, F10 Creative.It was a simple idea: Create a fun hangout for a homemade breakfast where Tara and her friends could gather, with no fuss, fresh local ingredients, and everything made from scratch. In 2008, the now-infamous Cheeky’s was born. Always an avid eater, born of will-travel-for-food gourmand parents, Tara began building her small empire of restaurants, bars (and a hotel!) from an endless appetite of cravings, tastes, sights, sounds and colorful spaces found around the globe. Recalling a midsummer night in Tuscany, pasta-heaped and wine-imbued, Tara (and her Milanese husband) created Birba, the al fresco Italian spot next door to Cheeky’s, in 2011. With friends around the globe dropping in to visit her burgeoning Palm Springs empire, Tara dove into a splashy pool season-weekender hotel—with the ideal Palm Canyon address—in Alcazar, opened in 2011.
 

Sparrow’s Lodge

The Barn KitchenThis rustic chic American eatery serves an inspired menu of sandwiches, salads and small bites daily until 6 p.m., including an excellent burger and a chicken salad sandwich that explodes with flavor (roasted chicken, avocado, bibb lettuce, tomato and spicy mustard on rustic sourdough). Family style dinners on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Reservations required.

Interview with Executive Chef Gabriel Woo (from last fall):
https://www.desertsun.com/story/life/food/2017/10/31/gabriel-woo-chef-from-palm-springs-palm-springs/815712001/
 

Holiday House

Pantry, also overseen by Gabriel Woo. American fare. Fried chicken supper Friday’s only. Reservations required.

Los Arboles Hotel:

El MirasolCocina Mexicana has built a reputation for consistently serving piping hot plates of artfully prepared Mexican regional cuisine and tangy, flavorful Margaritas in Palm Springs, California. It features a singular focus on wholesome, fresh food with house specialties like Chicharron en Salsa, a rich, aromatic Mole Sauce and handmade Corn Tortillas made fresh daily.

About Felipe and Lisbet Castañeda. They have seen their tiny original restaurant grow into two busy Palm Springs locations. El Mirasol South is still in the original location they opened in 1985. The restaurant is a landmark in Palm Springs and enjoys a bustling atmosphere, small bar and outside tables on East Palm Canyon Drive. The Castañedas’ are natives of the small ranching town of Tepechitlan, Zacatecas, an area with a proud culinary history that borders Jalisco’s famous Tequila region. Mexican food traditions go back for generations in this family and that passion for food translates into great meals for customers of both their Palm Springs restaurants.

Arrive:

Draughtsman:elevated pub fare and an extensive list of draught beers.

Reservoir: Modern Southern California cuisines

Interview with Executive chef, Carmen Rodriguez:“What I’m known for is the global Latin thing of fusing different cuisines together. But more than anything else, I fuse cultures together. I look at the history of the dish and when I find a commonality between an Asian dish and a Latin dish is when I put them together. I look for a commonality in the culture and people behind it—there are stories behind every dish.”  

Travel/Food Writer Linda Milks with Bella and Catie on a dog-friendly Palm Springs vacation.

Palm Springs is a well-known doggie haven. Many hotels, restaurants, and shops happily welcome and even indulge our four-legged friends. So when we recently had an opportunity to explore Palm Springs with our dogs, we were excited. Bella (Linda Milks’ feisty white Maltese/Lhasa Apso) and Catie (Sue and Todd Montgomery’s friendly black Cocker Spaniel) were equally enthusiastic. While they are both “senior” dogs, they still love to travel — mainly because they love all the snacks along the way.

CATIE:  I love traveling with my Mom and Dad. I was so worried when I saw them put their suitcases in the car. I thought they were going to leave me behind, but “bow wowsy”—  they put me in the car and I got to go too.  I was even more excited when my doggy pal, Bella, hopped in the backseat.

BELLA:  I usually get left at home when Mom goes on a trip, but it didn’t happen this time. I was so happy to see you, Catie. I heard we were going to some wonderful small hotels in Palm Springs, and when we pulled up to Talavera, I knew this was going to be great. When we opened the door, there was my very own guest dog bed and some tasty treats. The bathroom was huge so that’s where my Mom put the special dog bowls they set out for me. I could look out the door to the hot tub in the back area that was all enclosed with a bamboo fence, making it my own private playground.

Bella settling in for her stay at the Talavera, a dog-friendly boutique hotel in Palm Springs.

This hotel is small and the rooms are all very private. There was only one other room next to the pool. They left their door open, so, of course, I went exploring to see just who they were. I guess they like dogs because they wanted to pet me. (I do like attention!)

Katie with her own welcome sign at Avanti in Palm Springs

CATIE: I was thrilled that our hotel, Avanti Palm Springs, was so welcoming to me. There was even a sign at the front door with my name on it. The setting was quiet and nicely landscaped with a lovely pool and hot tub. My Dad walked me all over and I felt right at home. Our room was stylish (yes, I may be a dog, but I still like style) and comfort. We even had a kitchen where Dad could concoct snacks for me.

 

The pool at AVANTI in Palm Springs

BELLA:  Now let’s talk about the yummy food we ate in Palm Springs.

Swordfish Tacos at Azucar is an ideal lunch.

CATIE: Yep, we went to so many great restaurants and sat on their outside patios. Everywhere we went there were water bowls and lots of snacks.  Our first lunch was at Azucar, a welcoming place with inventive cuisine (as my Mom, the food writer, would say). This restaurant is located at La Serena Villas, a luxurious boutique hotel. Mom and Dad and Linda had drinks and delicious appetizers and swordfish tacos. (I know they were delicious because I got some too.)

Cioppino at Jakes, one of dog-friendliest,locally-owned restaurants in Palm Springs.

BELLA: Catie, did you know that the first night’s restaurant, Jake’s, was named after the owners’ dog? Do you think we will ever get a restaurant named after us? Bruce and Chris, the owners, were so nice to us, and I loved meeting their new dog, Jackson. But more than that, I loved the bites we got from that giant meatball your Dad ordered. The shrimp that our Moms gave us was pretty tasty, too. I didn’t think my mom could finish that big bowl of Cioppino, but she did. Maybe it’s because we helped her.

Copely’s local- owned and pup-friendly restaurant is a Palm Springs favorite.

CATIE: Bella, have you ever eaten at a five-star restaurant?  Well, Copley’s was a first for me. And we were both treated like the princesses we are. The setting was magical, and I loved sampling some of our humans’ fabulous fare, such as Dad’s Mizo Glazed Scottish Salmon and Linda’s Slow Roasted Duck Breast. I was especially impressed to learn that this chic, historic site was Cary Grant’s guesthouse during the 1940s. (I know about Cary Grant because I always love watching him with Audrey Hepburn in “Charade.”)

The epic margarita flight at Tac/Quila in Palm Springs

BELLA: Catie, we sure had a great lunch the second day (and that means lots of treats off our parents’ plates). We tried Tac/Quila, home to modern Jalisco-style cuisine and, according to our parents, the best margarita flight ever. Catie, didn’t you just love the bites of beef you got from the fajitas? The pork from Mom’s al Pastor made me beg for more.

Breakfast or brunch at Palm Springs legendary Sherman’s is not to be missed.

CATIE: The last morning in Palm Springs, remember that breakfast at Sherman’s, a very famous New York-style deli and noshing spot for dogs and humans alike? While the humans had scrumptious egg dishes (like my Mom’s lox and scrambled eggs), we had special snacks and bowls of fresh water. And then Mom and Dad ordered yummy pastrami sandwiches to take home.  (Hey, I love pastrami too.)

Bella exploring at Bones and Scones in Palm Springs

BELLA: We also got to go to some very fun pet stores. I loved Bones & Scones because they gave us treats and Mom bought me more treats (like pumpkin and peanut butter biscuits) to take home.  This store specializes in making healthy and organic dog food, which is very important for us senior pups so we can stay at the top of our games.

 

Catie showing off her new pink halter at Posh Pet Care in Palm Springs.

CATIE: My Dad bought me a bright pink halter at Posh Pet Care. This was another special pet shop with lots of toys and dog outfits. (I am a bit voluptuous, but they even had sweaters that fit me just fine.)

The owners of Boozehounds giving Catie a tour of their new expansion which will include a play area for dogs.

BELLA: Catie, I think we should tell them about Boozehounds.  This bar and restaurant will open soon in Palm Springs, and it will be a wonderful destination where dogs can take their humans. We met the founders, Jimmy McGill and Steve Piacenza, and they loved us.

CATIE: Well, who wouldn’t love us?  We are so cute and, Bella, you only nipped at the owners’ feet once.

Mixologist, Justin Gordon, making dog parents happy at Boozehounds in Palm Springs.

BELLA: Wow! That mixologist, Justin Gordon, sure seemed to make our parents happy. Those drinks were so colorful, and they “oohed” and “aahed” about them. Maybe we can come back again when they have the play area set up for dogs while our parents have cocktails.

Final note from dog parents:

Our doggies were treated very well on this trip, although they were exhausted when we got home after all their antics in Palm Springs. We had so much fun with them, and we definitely encourage other dog lovers to take their pups to this amazing dog-friendly destination. And make sure you stay in a Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel (PSPSH), as we did. Many of these charming hotels welcome dogs.

 

Story provided by Linda Milks and Susan Montgomery.

Art hangs on a brightly wallpapered wall at Azucar restaurant inside La Serena Villas

“I need to disappear, escape for a little bit / Take a trip to Palm Springs if you’re into it.”Mistel Marie, “Palm Springs”

It’s hot and getting hotter in Palm Springs, and unless you’re a Bedouin, it’s a bit too too for outdoor adventures. How do desert rats even exist?

I’d love to tell you, thanks for asking.

We stay in and around the pool with snacks and (adult) beverages close at hand. We wear sun bonnets (we don’t) and sunscreen (we should). Our rosé is always chilled, beer mugs frosty, tequila iced, and our martinis are shaken, not stirred. The only thing missing is someone to do all the cooking, cleaning, and bartending.

And that’s where these resorts enter our three-part (!) story.

They all have gorgeous pools, and some have massage services, but they all have a restaurant or food options so you never have to leave. No cooking and cleaning for you, my friend. You are completely carefree to don swimwear all day, and work on your tan and alcohol intake in a place that is far, far away from the madding crowd, in the enchanting city called Palm Springs.

In this part, I’ll introduce you to the larger boutique resorts that have full restaurants.

Alcazar Palm Springs. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Alcazar Palm Springs — Featured in Food & Wine, the Los Angeles Times, and Travel+Leisure, Alcazar has 34 suites and is located in the Uptown Design District. The rooms are modern and sleek, featuring Italian linens, flat screen televisions, fireplaces, and your choice of poolside or private patios. In addition to their immaculate attention to detail, Alcazar offers WiFi, coffee, espresso, tea, juice, daily fresh pastries, and Townie bikes for exploring the neighborhood.

It is also attached to two of the best restaurants in Palm Springs, Cheeky’s and Birba. Although they don’t do room service, there is a passageway from the resort to both restaurants so you can stay as cool as you are.

The Cole Hotel. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

The Cole Hotel — In the same neighborhood is one of the more affordable resorts in Palm Springs: The Cole. It’s a 30-room resort with three different floor plans — the Cole King, Cole Suite, and Pool Suite, plus the 600-square-foot Honeymoon Suite, complete with a private balcony. There’s also a nice, swimmable pool where they have 21+ pool parties. The Cole recently welcomed Freddie’s Kitchen, conceived by Chef Frederic, who has a long history in French cuisine in Southern California and was once chef de cuisine for Joël Robuchon — the chef and restaurateur named “Chef of the Century’ by the guide Gault Millau and awarded the Meilleur Ouvrier de France.

Alas, they do not serve breakfast, but they do open at noon and snacks and drinks are available poolside until 9 p.m. Dinner starts at 5 p.m.

The Ingleside Inn. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

The Ingleside Inn — Classic Palm Springs, old school vibe, and another very swimmable pool. The Ingleside Inn was built in the 1920s, and transformed into an invitation-only private club by Ruth Hardy (check out her park), where notables Elizabeth Taylor, Ava Gardner, and Marlon Brando stayed; Carole Lombard and Clark Gable honeymooned there.

Since then, the property has become open to the general public, but they’ve kept the Hollywood glam intact, including their restaurant, Melvyn’s, a favorite of Frank Sinatra. He was particularly fond of their Steak Diane.

This resort has 30 rooms and is situated on two acres of land, closer to the south end of Palm Springs on Belardo, and is still a home away from home for many celebrities. The Casablanca Lounge has a piano player nightly, and you never know who might sit in — anyone from Neil Sedaka (“Breaking Up Is Hard to Do”) to James Marsden (Enchanted and Dead To Me) to local favorites.

Poolside at La Serena Villas. Photo credit: La Serena Villas

La Serena Villas — Here’s another resort that has it all. It’s located in downtown Palm Springs, but well off the beaten path. They have the Whispers Spa that is for guests staying at La Serena Villas, the Del Marcos, and The Three Fifty Hotel only, so you can be pretty certain you’ll get the services you want, when you want them.

Also, it has a terrific restaurant called Azucar that is open to the public, so you can invite your friends to join you for dinner then invite them back to your suite for a nightcap on your private patio, or take it to the big, gorgeous pool.

The entrance to Smoke Tree Ranch. Photo credit: Smoke Tree Ranch

Smoke Tree Ranch — I have a friend who grew up in Palm Springs, and this is one place she’s never been and really, really wants to go. It’s that exclusive.

Located at the base of the mountains, the views from each of the 49 cottages are stunning. Sunrises and sunsets are actual events you won’t want to miss when you’re staying here. Some of the amenities include: flatscreen televisions, wet bars, refrigerators, coffee makers, cozy down pillows, deluxe down comforters and blankets, luxurious bathrooms with separate tubs and showers, plantation shutters, telephones with voicemail (!), private patios, and WiFi. Most cottages also have carports and wood-burning fireplaces.

Activities? Swimming, soaking, horseback riding, spa services, horseshoes, pickleball, tennis, golf, volleyball, basketball, croquet. And they have babysitting services.

The restaurant is old school; it has a dress code, so that’s kinda fun. Dress in your best summer designer fashion, and enjoy the poshness of it all while dining on the best Chef Tony Marks can cook up, including lobster and the finest steaks he can procure.

And get this — cottages are traditionally sold with three full meals per day in the Ranch House Dining Room. The meal plan begins with dinner on the day of check in, followed by breakfast and lunch the following day, and includes all gratuities.

But wait, there’s more! Coming up next week: a guide to the restaurants and bars at Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels that have no more than 30 rooms.

A man and a woman sit at a table outside under an umbrella in Palm Springs, California. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

It’s a new year, and there are new restaurants popping up all over our big little city. That means it’s time to do a roundup so you can get up to date on our latest food options.

Quite a few of these are in the design district, and not places you’d likely walk by unless you’re shopping for the higher-end, mid-mod aesthetic. One spot is so far off the beaten path, you’ll wonder if you’re lost. You are not. Read on…

Go international

Saffron — Fans of Persian cuisine (of which we’ve been a bit lacking) will be happy to know that the flavors are all here. Located in the former home of Roly China Fusion (RIP), some of my friends (yes, I have those) said they quite enjoyed the menu and atmosphere.

Alana Bar and Tapas — Formerly the home of the Palm Springs Modernism Museum, this hip little spot is next to the original Las Casuelas. Currently, they’re only serving cocktails, with tapas coming soon. 

Sotto Voce — At The Shops, 1345 N. Palm Canyon. The Shops and Sotto Voce are in a super cool historic site that’s actually on the Modernism Week bus tours; their sister cafe in Palm Desert is quite popular, and I’m looking forward to a visit.

East meets west

Ponzu — This sushi spot has been around for a minute, but I don’t think I’ve mentioned it before. My friends get around, they’ve been here too and say it’s excellent. It’s in the heart of downtown, catty-corner to Marilyn and Downtown Park. Stop by Clandestino or Canopy Wine Lounge before or after for drinks/appetizers.

Joyce’s Sushi — It’s not downtown, but based on its popularity in Palm Desert, you should know about this place. The location is not in the least bit fancy. It’s in the Ralph’s on the corner of Ramon and Sunrise, behind the Carl’s Jr., next to Mario’s and Asaderos Corrales III. It’s all very international: Mexico meets Italy meets Japan meets good old American fast food. It’s practically the U.N.

All American options

Lost Property — At Skylark Hotel (read about recent renovations and additions here). From their website: “Serving up coastal-inspired dishes with a modern edge. Menu curated by the talented L.A.-based chef Brandon Kida, featuring locally sourced, flavor-packed ingredients. And of course, cocktails.”

Desert Moon — So long Rio Azul Mexican restaurant, and hello to the latest locally-owned, fine-dining restaurant in Palm Springs. The menu looks really impressive, but alas nothing for vegetarians or vegans at this time. So keep that in mind if you’re booking groups.

BBQ and beer

Big Earl’s BBQ — Brand new and located at The Fireside Inn. That’s a late night spot where non-locals rarely go because they simply don’t know about it. They’re open so late, industry workers and entertainers go here to unwind. Last time I was there they had a whole outside with ping pong tables. They often have karaoke, but today we’re here for Earl and his meats. You want it? Earl has it, and knows how to cook and sauce it. Yelp reviews are a solid five stars so far.

Coachella Valley Brewing Company — Mercado Plaza is that yellowish complex across from La Plaza in the same space where the bronze of Sonny Bono is hanging out on the fountain. The same Mercado houses Jimmy B’s, Maracas, and Happy Sushi. Upstairs from those (there’s an elevator), Wilma & Frieda’s can be found, and across the bridge, the somewhat new Broken Yolk, as well as the fresh-off-the-presses CVBC. They’ve got salad, burgers, and brews, of course. And they’ve got a bird’s nest view of Palm Springs.

It’s carpe diem 24/7 here in Palm Springs, where you can relax and let your freak flag fly. Or you can be very mindful, very demure. You do you. We are, however, very big on nice, so if you could be that, that would be swell.

Don’t forget to shop, stay local, tip your servers and guides, and bring your swimsuit!