Missed Part 1? Read it here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Welcome to Holiday House. Photo credit: Holiday House

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.”
– Coco Chanel

Named after Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, epileptics, and beekeepers (weird three to lump together, but whatever), Valentine’s Day somehow took on the persona of the Greek god of love, Eros, which then morphed into Cupid, the god of desire. So now Valentine’s Day is symbolized by a chubby baby flying around with a magical bow and arrow shooting people in the heart with expectations of a lusty outcome. Fun!

The expectations and nerves leading up to Valentine’s Day are also (à la Gwen Stefani) B.A.N.A.N.A.S. Candy, a card, flowers, a fancy dinner, and perhaps a piece of jewelry are de rigueur, and while those are nice, why not do something different? Something that shows the object of your affection your creative streak. Here are some ideas to make the day a little easier (I got you!):

Date One: The Outdoor Adventure Date

What you’ll need: hiking shoes, a backpack, and dress in layers

Breakfast: Cheeky’s for breakfast. It’s very popular and it’s busy. 

Coffee: Koffi is great, but try something new, like Ernest Coffeehouse

Lunch to go: The Sandwich Spot. Pre-order your sandwiches and put them in your backpack. Or try On The Mark for a fancier fare.

Adventure: The Tram. Take it up the mountain (wear your mask, you are in an enclosed gondola). Once you get to the top, there are great views, telescopes, and two places to eat. Explore the manmade stuff and then hike your trail. You can see all of them here, and make your choice with your date.

Alternative adventure option: Replace the tram with a hike in either Indian Canyons (so  many trails!) or a lazier sexy hike at Tahquitz (tah’quits) Canyon to Tahquitz Falls. Once you get to the falls, it’s lunch time. Dangle your feet in the clear pool and enjoy. Don’t forget to pack up everything (no littering please) and hike back to civilization.

Dinner: The Rooster and Pig is only doing takeout at the time of this typing, but check the website. Things are opening back up. In keeping with the Asian theme, we have Fusion Five for pho, and 533 Viet Fusion on the south end of Palm Springs. If you want the best burger in town, head over to The Heyday. They also have a delicious magic mushroom burger (the magic is it tastes like beef, it doesn’t get you high). If you choose the Heyday option, you can go to the casino after and try your luck! 

Date Two: Bagels, Antiquing, Thrifting, Smok’em If You’ve Got’em

What you’ll need: A sense of adventure and a car. This date takes you to the south end of Palm Springs.

Breakfast: Townie Bagels — a very busy breakfast spot, but it gets you across the street from your first stop.

Cannabis?: If you’re cannabis friendly, there are three dispensaries in this area. Have an edible and let’s get on our now merry way.

Antiques, thrift stores, trading posts are across the street from Townies, and all along Industrial Place.

Antique Galleries, 505 Industrial Place gets you to the Antique Galleries and you can use your eyeballs from there.

Sunny Dunes Antique Mall, 507 E Sunny Dunes Rd. Sprawling shop featuring antique dealers selling vintage furniture, jewelry, and other collectibles.

Little Shop of Treasures, 616 E Sunny Dunes Rd. Unassuming store selling an array of antique furnishings, collectibles, clothes, and dishes.

Q Trading Co., 606 E Sunny Dunes Rd. Get your car and go to Sun Center Mall (turn right on Palm Canyon, then it’s less than half a block on your left).

Revivals, 611 South Palm Canyon Drive. This is a great little thrift store that benefits Desert AIDS Project.

Lunch options at Sun Center: 

Palm Greens Cafe — Organic and vegan

PS Air inside Bouschet — Yummy salads

Spaghetteria for pizza

Lunch options at The Plaza (near your next stop):

Farm — Outstanding lunch selections, French inspired

More antiquing and thrifting:

P S Trading,140 N Palm Canyon Dr.

Bon Vivant, 766 N Palm Canyon Dr · Near Trio Restaurant, (760) 534-3197

a La MOD INC, 886 N Palm Canyon Dr · Near Trio Restaurant, (760) 327-0707

Deja Vu Vintage Finery, 664 N Palm Canyon Dr.

Flow Modern, 768 N Palm Canyon Dr.

Mohave Flea Trading Post, 383 Indian Canyon Dr..

Angel View Resale, 462 N Indian Canyon Dr.

Dinner: Birba — New wave Italian American fare. Sit on the twinkly patio.

Date Three: Spaaaah Date

Yoga in the Park

Breakfast: L’Atelier in the Plaza. Pastries, quiche, salads, and champagne.

Spa options: 

Our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels have some exceptional spa options in gorgeous settings.

Palm Springs Beautiful Spa Massage, 109 S Indian Canyon Dr. (760) 656-1028

Palm Springs Spa Massage, 471 E Tahquitz Canyon Way #226. (760) 808-4205

Lunch: grab and go eat in the new park (on Museum Way down from Marilyn). 

Haus of Poke

Stout Burgers

After the spa, check out the Palm Springs Art Museum, Marilyn Statue, and art installations. Behind The Block on Museum Way.

Dinner: It’s been a nice relaxing day, and dressing up and going out to dinner might be a bit much. If you’re a planner, a few weeks in advance you can order a custom dinner from Three Queens Catering. I recently went to an event they catered and the food was awesome! Plus, I know two of them, and they are some of the funniest people on the planet.

Bar Cecil (pronounced Sess’-ill) — Super fancy and the trendiest place in Palm Springs right now.

John Henry’s — Off the beaten path on Tahquitz on the way to the airport. Blink and you’ll miss it.

Date Four: Classic Palm Springs and the Rat Pack

Breakfast: Spencer’s, Grand Central, Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn

Coffee: Gre Coffeehouse — Great cup of java and vinyls to peruse and purchase.

Adventure: You’ll need a car. Download the Palm Springs Life tour app. It will take you on three different tours. That should take up most of your day.

Alternate plans: Open houses! This site tells you where they are the day of.

Lunch: Holiday House

Drinks: Del Rey inside Villa Royale or Melvyn’s

Dinner: Johnny Costa’s is super old school Italian fare with a Rat Pack vibe. The chef was one of Frank Sinatra’s favorites. Try the chicken parm.

Date Five: Traditional Valentine’s Day

Toffee from Brandini’s

Flowers (in advance) from Jensen’s (a beautiful plant will remind them of you year- round)

Valentine’s Day card from Just Fabulous

Dinner at Tropicale, Copley’s, Roly China Fusion (by the pool)

Finish up your evening at Dead or Alive Wine Bar or Seymour’s (inside Mr. Lyons) on the south end of town. Both are quiet and great before sexy times — if that’s your goal.

Happy Arrow-Slinging Chubby Baby Day everyone! I hope you’re with someone you love, and as the song says, “If you can’t be with the one you love, love the one you’re with.”

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.

Five bowls of colorful ice cream lined up in white bowls

Yep, it’s heating up in Palm Springs, but we’ve got a few things to help you enjoy the heat: misters on the sidewalks and in outdoor restaurants, cold beer on every corner, and frozen confections galore. 

Whether you’re an ice cream, yogurt, gelato, or milkshake kind of human, there’s something somewhere in Palm Springs just for you. We even have some artisanal shops for those craving ice cream in unusual but delicious flavors.

Here’s the scoop:

Ice Cream in Downtown Palm Springs

Ice Cream & Shopp(e) — This hip hybrid ice cream parlor/gift shop is at Arrive Hotel.

Great Shakes — Located in the heart of downtown, their daily flavors are listed on a PDF on their website, or you could just stop in while strolling Palm Canyon.

Brandini Toffee (the link goes to catering so you can see their in-store ice cream options) — Voted No. 1 candy store in California, they not only have the best toffee you’ll ever taste, but fantastic caramel corn in a variety of flavors AND ice cream! Get a toffee pop or opt for the decadent ice cream bowl. They’ll even make you an affogato sans booze.

Gelato Granucci — Artisanal gelato made on-site. Flavors change daily. Just north of La Quinta Brewing and Bootlegger Tiki. 

Ben & Jerry’s — You know ’em.

Carmela Ice Cream — Inside the very cool Flannery Exchange is another artisanal ice cream maker. She hails from Pasadena. Definitely worth a try and a visit to the space. If you need spot to work for a day, check ’em out.

Lolli & Pops — It has a few flavors of ice cream, but is also a swanky candy store. Great tinned gifts for bridal and groom parties, or even special guests. 

A three-scoop ice cream cone on a white background surrounded by colorful rainbow sprinkles

In Palm Springs, we all scream for ice cream. Photo by Courtney Cook on Unsplash

Away from Downtown 

Kreem Located on the south end of Palm Springs right where Palm Canyon splits into South and East. Next to the liquor store. Artisan ice cream in unusual flavors. A local favorite. 

Cold Stone Creamery — If you keep going down Palm Canyon East you’ll run into a shopping mall. It’s past Sunrise a few blocks next to Jersey Mike’s. 

Monster Shakes — Those shopping for an extended stay at Ralph’s will find great rewards here. It’s next to Domino’s Pizza in the shopping center on Ramon and Sunrise.

Frozen yogurt

Jus Chillin’ PS — Two locations, one on Tahquitz and the other on Palm Canyon. Tons of flavors and options for add-ons.

Tutti Frutti — All local ingredients from down valley. If a fruit is in season, you’ll find a matching flavor here. They’ve got the chocolate-y-est chocolate evah!

Date shakes 

Nature’s Health Food Cafe — Off the beaten path for vacationers, but well worth the stop. Food is vegan, and they have date shakes.

Tutti Frutti — Mentioned above, they have my favorite date shake. Not too sweet. I’m sweet enough.

Ice Cream & Shop(pe): Date shakes too!

Stay cool everyone!

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.

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

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

 

1501 Gastro Pub

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

Pinocchio in the Desert

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

 

FARM

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

 

Elmers

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

 

Escena Lounge and Grill

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

 

Wilma & Frieda’s

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

 

Sherman’s Deli

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

 

Grand Central Café

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

 

 

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.

The white exterior of Eight4Nine restaurant in downtown Palm Springs, California

A large table bought at an estate sale and rejection of a lease for space changed the trajectory of two Palm Springs restaurant owners’ lives. Mindy Reed, owner of Zin Restaurant, and Willie Rhine, an owner of Eight4Nine and 1501 Uptown Gastropub, prove it is important to pay attention to the little things.

When Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels asked me to interview these two prominent people in our community, I jumped at the chance. Here are their stories:

Mindy Reed 

Mindy was born in Michigan but moved to Alabama, where she lived for 18 years. When asked how she ended up in Palm Springs, she replied, “I got married, and we left Alabama and moved to Joshua Tree on acres of land surrounded by the beauty of the desert. I happily was a stay-at-home mom and raised my children, surrounded daily by the stunning landscape.”

Working in Palm Springs

When her children went to school, “I wanted something to do, so I headed to Palm Springs,” Mindy said. “I found a waitress job at what was then known as Chillers, recently called Moxie.” She enjoyed the work and appreciated the people, and ended up staying there for five years. When a casino job came along, Mindy applied and ended up being a cocktail waitress there for 10 years, before moving on to the Chophouse and then AJ’s.

“Located next to Sammy G’s was a small space that became available,” Mindy said. “After thinking about it, I made a plan to open a sandwich-to-go shop. By mortgaging my house, I had all the paperwork done. Then, much to my disappointment, the owner turned me down. He felt I did not have enough experience to make it work.”

The urge to own a place didn’t go away

Directly across the street, another space, once occupied by Jimmy’s Kitchen News Café, became available. “With a location on the corner of Arenas and South Palm Canyon Drive, I could see it was a great location,” Mindy said. “This time my offer went through, and work began while I maintained my position at AJ’s.” The origin of the name has a nice twist — they had no liquor license, so only wine could be served. The name decided on was Zin American Bistro, since they wanted to keep an American bistro feel, and Zinfandel grapes thrived in the United States.

Mindy Reed. Photo by Gregg Felsen/Visit Palm Springs

Expanding her empire

Zin flourished, and when the beauty supply store next door closed, Mindy started thinking about expansion. “I got the space,” she said. “The wall was knocked down, enlarging the restaurant. Then by 2009, the itch began. I wanted to do something different. The space next door opened on Memorial Day 2009, under the name Zini Café Mediterraneo, Aliante, and finally we settled on Revel House, painting the picture of fun and partying.”

Before heading to Europe for a trip, Mindy received an offer for Revel House. She turned it down, but “reconsidered when I came back,” she said. “I was delighted to accept his offer, which was exactly the price I determined would entice me to sell.” She kept the chef, and was able to start offering catering services. That’s not the only change, she added. “With the help of my partner, we are expanding Zin’s wine list and looking forward to doing wine dinners and adding beer pairings,” Mindy said.

I asked Mindy, “You are known for your generosity to the community. What compels you to be such a supporter?” She replied, “Kathy, this community supported me when I just starting out, and they haven’t stopped. Without people helping at every stage, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you in Zin, which became part of my reality in 1992.”

Willie Rhine  

With an 8th-grade education, Willie Rhine learned to listen to his intuition long ago. After years of construction work, Willie took his skills and developed 100 Top Hats Playhouse, where he served as director and producer for 13 years. Then he realized he had to close it, facing the fact that he had run out of money.

Needing work, he applied for a job at Cheeky Monkey, on the corner of Sunrise and Ramon. He stayed there for two years, serving mainly fish and chips and cider. He left for Le Vallauris Restaurant, and within five years, he moved up the ranks to maître d and head of catering at this fine-dining French restaurant.

His next stop was Piero’s Acqua Pazza in Rancho Mirage, where he was hired as manager and moved up to general manager within two months. When Barbara and Jerry Keller decided to open Lulu’s California Bistro in downtown Palm Springs, they asked Willie to go with them.

A catering gig changed his life’s path  

Lulu’s does many catering events, and was hired for the wedding of John Paschal. John took notice of Willie, and later approached him about opening his own restaurant.

With a partnership agreed upon, the search for space began. Willie had learned through his positions what the need was in Palm Springs. Each place he worked served a different client. What if they had a space large enough to put all of these needs — corporate meeting spaces, weddings, intimate dining — under one roof?

It wasn’t an easy place to find, so it took a while. Then, Willie walked into a building serving as a consignment shop, originally built as a post office, at 849 N. Palm Canyon Drive.

John believed in Willie’s vision, and the space was named Eight4Nine after its address. This was a huge place to furnish, and once again, Willie’s vision not only seemed practical, but was also a great idea and inexpensive to implement.

Willie Rhine. Photo courtesy of Willie Rhine

Remember at the beginning of this article, I said a large table bought at an estate sale changed the trajectory of Willie’s life? Willie said, “Let’s buy furniture at estate sales and paint it all white and use it throughout the entire restaurant.” Thus, that large table he stored for years was painted white, and now serves as a communal space for dining.

All the white furniture in the other rooms is a result of Willie’s enjoyment of perusing garage and estate sales, with the exception of the white furniture seen when entering the restaurant, which was made per Eight4Nine’s specifications.

Today, Willie oversees the restaurant operation, and John is running the kitchen with no executive chef. They continue to ensure that each one of us who dine there can get the same quality food and service we have come to expect when we bring guests to Eight4Nine.

Not enough to do? Let’s start two new restaurants 

Willie had been working with Chad Gardner, who owns 533 View Fusion and Roly China Fusion, at various catering events. They saw that the space at the defunct Draughtsman next to Arrive was vacant, and after a tour of the place, they were enthralled with the walls that opened to the outside and views from the outdoor patios. They decided to form a partnership and start another restaurant, again named after its address: 1501 Uptown Gastropub.

Today, the restaurant is thriving and equally attracting lunch and dinner guests, who come for the ambiance and once again the outstanding cuisine.

Willie and Chad’s partnership went so well that they recently opened Willie’s Restaurant in Rancho Mirage. When I smiled and asked, “Why was it named Willie’s?” he laughed and said, “We thought we were so smart we could name all the restaurants after their addresses. Then we learn that the new building’s address was 69830 CA-111. Thus, that wouldn’t work, so since we just kept calling it Willie’s, the name stuck.”

Willie believes he would not have accomplished what he has without the community supporting him in his theater days, during his serving jobs, and now at his restaurants. “I don’t look at giving to the community as an obligation,” he said. “It gives me great pleasure to give back to the community that supported me.”

Mindy and Willie are the spirit of Palm Springs 

After thinking about these two interviews, there are some things very clear in my mind. These are wonderful individuals who use their skills and intuition to build their businesses versus relying on educational degrees. Both Mindy and Willie learned from their own serving days what good customer service looks like and make it clear to all under their employ that the highest serving standards must be upheld. Without excellent food, people will not come back — I can assure you will not be disappointed in a meal at any of the restaurants mentioned above.

Finally, don’t you find it interesting that Mindy Reed and Willie Rhine’s thriving restaurants were created by people who have lived and worked in Palm Springs for many years? Their generosity, including to the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, is impeccable. Next time you are going out to dinner, we encourage you to support these restaurants by making a reservation and dining at places that firmly have their roots planted in Palm Springs.

A Black man, a white woman, and a Hispanic woman hold their glasses up to cheers at a table

Lunch can be solely for sustenance or you can make it an event. You’re in Palm Springs, so make it an event with adult beverages or festive mocktails. Here are some spots to have a boozy or an inspired lunch while you enjoy our stellar Palm Springs weather and hospitality. 

On the Strip

Maracas — The aroma from their fajitas will call to you like a cartoon finger. Located right next to Sonny Bono in the Mercado Plaza, their margaritas are some of the best you’ll ever have, and the street tacos are delish. In fact, everything is fantastic all the way down to the service.

JimmyB’s — On the other side of Sonny Bono, this is a new-ish restaurant. It was Ruby’s before the pandemic, then it was Sammy’s, and now it’s Jimmy’s. Breakfast and lunch served, there’s live entertainment and great people watching, and they plan to open for dinner at a later date, which is likely why their sign says “Grill, Steaks, Cocktails.”

Grand Central — In La Plaza where the anchor department store for the mall used to live. It’s a very big space, and it’s loud. Less so outside. Food is good too.

Bill’s Pizza — Only beer and wine on the alcohol front, but they have about five beers on tap and their pizza is the best in the Valley. Try the Elton John. I don’t know why it’s called that, it’s more like a Greek pizza with artichokes, onions, dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese — no red sauce. Not a lot of atmosphere here, so I’d get it to go and eat it by the pool with a six-pack. Like Ryan Gosling.

French Miso — Located in La Plaza, but kinda behind it. That area is one of my favorite parts of Palm Springs because it feels like you just stepped into old Palm Springs. And there’s a record store back here, a hairdresser, some art galleries, and the biggest cactus I’ve ever seen. French Miso is a great spot for an upscale experience that won’t break the bank. Nice-sized wine selection, and Sapporo beer. It’s a little hidden gem that’s not as hidden as it used to be. 

Pomme Frite — Lunch on Saturdays and Sundays only. French bistro food known for their mussels. 

Lulu — You’ve likely heard of Lulu. They’ve got a great menu, something for everyone, and it’s tasty too. The decor is fun, and it’s great for people watching. Check out the bathrooms. Uptown Funk plays on a loop, and there are videos. The guys have a two-way mirror to the service hallway. 

Thirsty Palms — Their lunch/dinner menu is just as creative as their breakfast menu; half of it is refreshing and half of it is hearty, so pick your adventure. They have an extensive and fun cocktail list, and they’re kinda new. Let me know what you think — it’s on my short list to try.

Groups of diners eat under yellow umbrellas at Eight4Nine in Palm Springs, California

Lunch tastes even better when dining outside at Eight4Nine. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Eight4Nine — It used to be the Palm Springs post office, but now it’s one of the most popular restaurants in town. Dressed in white with red accents, the interior is pretty swanky. Dine al fresco here — you’ll get good food while enjoying our fantastic weather.

TacQuila — Upscale and fun. Lunch is a little less pricey than dinner, but you should definitely try it. And get the deep fried avocado. SO good.

Farm — As I mentioned in the breakfast blog, it’s like the French countryside when you dip in off the street. If the line’s too long, and you’re early enough, you can get a drink and something light off the menu at their sister restaurant, The Front Porch. This one is also in La Plaza. 

Fuzion Five — At Baristo on Palm Canyon, this place has been around for awhile, and I recently tried it. I can whole-heartedly recommend their shrimp and avocado roll. Their noodles were pretty fire too.

Thai House Palm Springs — I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s easy to miss because it’s sandwiched between The Village Pub and Las Casuelas Terraza. It’s vegetarian, and I’ve heard it’s good. Let me know, ‘k?

El Patio — The sister to Felipe’s (see below), with the same good food but a marketing flare: your tacos are served on a clothesline with clothespins.

Bongo Johnny’s — Tiki bar above La Quinta Brewing. Fun atmosphere, and there’s often a line.

1501 Gastropub — In the former Big Boy’s restaurant, it’s co-owned by two local restaurateurs, Willie Rhine and Chad Gardner. The food is inspired, and the drinks are good. Close to Arrive.

The Heyday — Across the street from Gastropub, this burger joint went from street vendor to hotel residences to their own brick and mortar in four years. That’s pretty impressive. Their burger is a local favorite — they have a mushroom burger that will rock your world — and the vibe is great; a DJ was spinning the afternoon I went, and the place was swinging. Takeout too.

Tyler’s — It’s a burger joint in La Plaza, and it’s good. Beer on tap.

A red plate filled with rice and tacos and a pink margarita from Las Casuelas Terraza in Palm Springs, California

Lunch is served as Las Casuelas Terraza. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Las Casuelas Terraza — Decent food, party atmosphere, usually a band. I just learned it’s in an old casita (I thought castitas were small, this one was not). Open Thursday through Monday for lunch.

Mickey’s Kitchen — This is behind the Shamrock’s Pub, and if you’re looking for a place to get your Irish on and eat Mexican food, just pop on into Shamrock’s. You can order and have it delivered to the pub.

Off the Strip

Billy Reed’s Many people make this the last stop on their way out of Palm Springs. Their homemade potato chips are a big draw too. Very big place. 

El Mirasol North and South — If you’re staying at Los Arboles, you’ve got a direct line to the North property and its lovely patio. The food (all family recipes) is always good, and their margarita menu is extensive. The restaurants and hotel are owned and managed by the Castaneda family, so there’s a lot of pride there. 

The Pantry at Holiday House — You definitely need a reservation, but I hear it’s a great experience. And lucky you, if you’re staying at Holiday House you’ve got an in!

The Barn at Sparrows LodgeSparrows Lodge and Holiday House are sister properties, and Sparrows is pretty special. You’ll need a reservation here, and good parking skills. 

Six white chairs lined up in front of the white bar at Drift Hotel in Palm Springs, California

The bar at Maleza. Photo by Erin Feinblatt

Maleza — In one of the newest of our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, The Drift. The menu isn’t extensive, but it’s good. And again, if you’re staying at Drift you don’t need to drift anywhere else for lunch. 

Fisherman’s Market & Grill — Much like the fish joints you see on the boardwalks, but it smells better. Order your food cafeteria style, then they’ll give you a number and find you either outside or inside, your preference. Fish is fresh, prices and food are both good. You can be healthy or get it fried. 

Ruben & Ozzies — You can make a meal on appetizers alone. Featuring mostly seafood, they do have other options (chicken, steak) for those who are landlubbers. 

Sherman’s Deli — It’s a nice deli. It has sandwiches, soups, desserts, booze, and more. 

Boozehounds — On the north end near Toucan’s. Food is good, and your pooch is welcome to have cocktails and food with you.

Felipe’s – Waaay off the beaten path, Felipe’s is on El Cielo just west of the airport. Food has a Jalisco influence with an emphasis on seafood. Also a local favorite.

Loco Charlies — In the Albertson’s shopping mall, the food is quite good, and so are the drinks. It’s pretty far off the beaten path, so you’re going to find a lot of locals here. It is not in the least bit trendy or chi-chi. Just good food and booze.

Arenas

Blackbook — Fun, finger-food kind of menu. Wings, burgers, fries.

Hunters — At first it looks like it’s all bar food, but their menu is pretty extensive.

I may have missed a few — it happens, I’m a perfectly imperfect human and that’s okay. But now I’m also a perfectly imperfect hungry human … and there’s so many choices I can’t decide where to go! See you at dinner, coming up next. 

This past year has presented us with amazing opportunities to get delicious food delivered directly to our doorsteps.  But the grandaddy of delivery, the classic that stands above the rest, is of course, pizza!  Palm Springs is fortunate to have several pizzerias offering some truly awesome pies.  Check out some of the staff at Santiago’s favorites here.

Bill’s Pizza – Definitely one of the best-known pizza’s in town, this is a local and tourist favorite. Famous for their thin crust pizza, they offer a huge selection of toppings as well as famous house combinations like ‘the Elton John.’ They serve up vegan and GF options as well. You can find Bill’s on several delivery apps.

http://www.billspizzapalmsprings.com/

Giuseppe’s – This is a local hot spot for pizza. Both their thin crust and deep-dish pies are delicious. They offer a nice selection of salads and traditional Italian dishes, but pizza is the star of the show! They serve vegan and GF options and have an in-house delivery service.

https://giuseppesps.com/

Birba – This beautiful outdoor Italian restaurant makes some amazing pizza. They offer 6 to 7 pizza options nightly, all rustic and delicious. Add a few of their very tasty ‘small dishes’ to spice things up. You can find Birba on several delivery apps.

https://birbaps.com/

Blaze Pizza – This national chain makes great and affordable single sized pizzas and you can customize every bite – from crust, to cheese and toppings.  For a great GF option, they offer a terrific cauliflower crust. Their home page connects to a food delivery app.

https://www.blazepizza.com/location/blaze-pizza-palm-springs/menu

Spaghetteria – This hole-in-the wall, vinyl table cloth Italian restaurant, run by a mom and her two daughters is beloved by locals. They have a great selection of pizza, all made with love. Their calzones are awesome as well! Pick up or delivery from their yelp page.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/spaghetteria-palm-springs