19 Best Restaurants in Palm Springs
An insider’s guide to the best restaurants in Palm Springs, from iconic institutions and buzzy favorites to cocktail bars worth planning your evening around.
Palm Springs has always known how to feed a good weekend. Between poolside afternoons, midcentury architecture, and desert hikes, the city’s dining scene quietly holds its own, ranging from old-school institutions and buzzy new favorites to cocktail bars that feel just as essential as any restaurant.
It’s also a place where breakfast or brunch matters, dinner is rarely rushed, and atmosphere is often just as important as what’s on the plate.
After spending three days eating my way around Palm Springs, hopping between casual counters, polished dining rooms, and late-night bars, it became clear that knowing where to eat in Palm Springs can shape the entire trip.
This guide pulls together my personal short list of the best restaurants in Palm Springs—the spots I’d return to without hesitation and recommend to anyone planning a weekend in the desert.
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Short on Time and Planning a Trip? Here are my top picks for Palm Springs
Where to Stay: Parker Palm Springs, Sparrows Lodge, Kimpton Rowan, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
Must Eats: Bar Cecil, Boozehounds, Workshop Kitchen, Birba, Farm
Things to Do: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Palm Springs Art Museum, Modernist Architecture Tour, Hiking
Side note: Reservations are strongly recommended for most of these restaurants, especially during high season (January-March) and on weekends. Palm Springs dining fills up fast, and booking ahead will save you from long waits or missed meals.
Read more: 11 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs on a Weekend Trip
19 Best Restaurants in Palm Springs, California
1. Bar Cecil
Bar Cecil has quietly earned its place among the best restaurants in Palm Springs, with confident, refined dishes deeply rooted in quality. Named after Cecil Beaton, the space reflects that namesake’s sensibility: elegant but not precious, artistic without feeling too curated.
The dining room is intimate and warmly lit, with modern art lining the walls. It reminds me of dining in a classic restaurant in Milan rather than being in the heart of Palm Springs.
The menu is Mediterranean-leaning and ingredient-driven, with a strong focus on seafood and seasonal produce. Standout dishes include crudo and carpaccio, beautifully balanced pastas (get the cacio e pepe), and expertly cooked fish that’s simple but beautifully done. Desserts are restrained but thoughtful, and the wine list is sharp, global, and well-edited.
Reservations here are hard to get, particularly in the high season and during popular festivals and events, so make sure to book well in advance.
2. The Barn Kitchen
Inside Sparrows Lodge, you’ll find the Barn Kitchen, which delivers a more relaxed, locally rooted dining experience in Palm Springs. Set in a rustic, barn-style space with a casual, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a long, relaxed lunch.
The menu focuses on comfort-forward, California-inspired cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and approachable flavors. Expect hearty breakfasts, solid lunch plates, and easy dinners that feel familiar in the best way. Popular dishes include seasonal scrambles, sandwiches, and generous plates designed to satisfy after a hike or a long pool day.
If you’re staying at Sparrows Lodge, this will be an obvious choice; otherwise, it’s well worth making the trip.
3. Birba
Birba is easily one of the best restaurants in Palm Springs, and everyone seems to know it. Set in a casual bungalow-like space with a laid-back patio, Birba feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a destination restaurant.
Come here for wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and small plates designed for sharing. The pizzas are thin, blistered, and perfectly charred, with toppings that stay classic rather than experimental. Pastas rotate seasonally, but you can expect comforting, well-balanced dishes. Add a glass of natural wine or an Aperol spritz, and you’re exactly where you should be.
Service is easygoing and friendly, encouraging you to linger rather than rush. Birba shines for lunch, early dinner, or those evenings when you want good food without committing to too much.
4. 4 Saints
Located on the rooftop of the Kimpton Rowan, 4 Saints pairs refined Californian cuisine with some of the best sunset views in Palm Springs. The menu focuses on seasonal, well-balanced dishes and fresh seafood, while the cocktail program is polished and thoughtfully executed.
Come for dinner or a drink and stay for the view as it’s one of the city’s best spots for a sunset-led evening that feels elevated in the best possible way.
5. Workshop Kitchen & Bar
Workshop Kitchen + Bar is Palm Springs dining at its most polished and arguably its most iconic. Set inside a former 1920s movie theater, the space is dramatic and architectural. It’s industrial-modern done right, and still one of the most striking dining rooms in the desert.
The menu is seasonal, California-driven, and thoughtful. Dishes change often, but you’ll usually find beautifully executed vegetables, impeccably cooked proteins, and bold, confident flavors. Standouts I had here include wood-grilled octopus, dry-aged steak, and vegetable-forward plates that feel intentional rather than obligatory.
The cocktail program is also fantastic, with precise, balanced, and well-matched drinks to the food.
Service is professional and smooth, striking that ideal balance between attentive and unobtrusive.
6. Boozehounds
Boozehounds is one of Palm Springs’ most relaxed, design-forward spots, known as much for its atmosphere as its food. The space is modern, colorful, and minimalist with an airy indoor–outdoor layout, and it’s famously dog-friendly, making it a favorite for anyone bringing pups.
The menu leans Mediterranean with shareable plates, fresh pastas, and vegetable-driven dishes that feel light but satisfying. Service is easygoing, and the overall vibe is social without being loud—ideal for a casual dinner, a late afternoon bite, or an effortlessly cool stop that feels very Palm Springs.
7. Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Estate
Melvyn’s is the best restaurant in Palm Springs to experience the town’s old-school glamour. Located at the historic Ingleside Estate, once a private residence for Hollywood’s elite, the restaurant feels timeless with white tablecloths, intimate dining rooms, and an atmosphere steeped in Rat Pack-era history.
The menu leans classic and indulgent, with tableside preparations, prime steaks, chops, and traditional desserts that feel nostalgic. Service is polished, formal, and wonderfully theatrical, making dinner here feel like an occasion.
8. Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey
Sandfish brings a polished, modern edge to the Palm Springs dining scene, delivering high-quality sushi in a sleek, low-lit space. The menu focuses on fresh nigiri, inventive rolls, and sashimi, alongside a strong selection of Japanese-inspired small plates.
Standouts include the chef’s choice nigiri, beautifully balanced specialty rolls, and dishes that highlight the quality of the fish without unnecessary flourishes. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, making it a popular spot for date nights and late dinners.
9. Mr. Lyons Steakhouse
Mr. Lyon’s Steakhouse delivers classic steakhouse indulgence with a distinctly Palm Springs sensibility. The room is dark, sultry, and retro-leaning, with leather banquettes, low lighting, and a soundtrack that’s literally pulled from a vintage vinyl collection.
The menu is exactly what you might expect from a classic steakhouse: prime steaks, rich sides, and decadent starters. Expect perfectly cooked cuts, old-school sauces, and a sense that dinner here is meant to linger.
Service is polished but personable, and the bar—home to Seymour’s hidden cocktail lounge (more on that below)—sets the tone for a full evening rather than a quick meal.
10. Rooster and the Pig
Rooster and the Pig is loud, lively, and relentlessly good. The Vietnamese menu is compact but powerful, built around big flavors, fresh herbs, and dishes that arrive fast and hot.
The banh xeo (Vietnamese sizzling crepe) is the star here—crispy, stuffed, and meant to be eaten with your hands, wrapped in lettuce and herbs. The shaken beef, crispy imperial rolls, and noodle bowls are also reliable hits, while the cocktails skew playful and strong. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the energy never dips.
There are no reservations, so there will likely be a wait, but it moves quickly and feels part of the experience.
11. State Fare Bar & Kitchen
Located inside The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, State Fare Bar & Kitchen offers elevated California comfort food with sweeping valley views that do much of the talking.
The menu focuses on refined, familiar dishes, with well-executed seasonal plates, polished mains, and crowd-pleasing flavors that feel appropriate for the resort setting.
The atmosphere is relaxed but upscale, making it an easy choice for a sunset dinner or a leisurely lunch if you’re already at the property. Service is smooth and professional, exactly what you’d expect from a Ritz-Carlton dining room, and the views alone make it worth the drive.
12. Norma’s
Located inside the iconic Parker Palm Springs, Norma’s is one of the city’s most recognizable spots for breakfast, brunch or lunch. Long known for serving breakfast all day, this cheerful, retro-inspired restaurant delivers classic comfort dishes with polish. Expect fluffy pancakes, omelets, eggs Benedict, and generous portions paired with strong coffee.
The atmosphere is lively and colorful, perfectly matching the Parkers’ playful design sensibility, while service is friendly, efficient, and accustomed to a steady flow of hungry guests. It’s an easy, reliable choice for a leisurely morning or a midday reset between pool sessions.
13. Colony Club
Located at the historic Colony Palms Hotel, the Colony Club brings together old Palm Springs glamour with a relaxed, resort-style dining experience.
The menu is a mix of California and Mediterranean, with light, approachable dishes that suit poolside lunches and easygoing dinners. The setting, with lush palms, soft lighting, and classic resort architecture, does much of the heavy lifting, while service is warm and attentive without being formal.
It’s an ideal choice when you want something polished but unfussy, especially for a daytime meal or an early evening dinner.
14. El Jefe
Located inside the famously colorful Saguaro Palm Springs, El Jefe Desert Cantina delivers high energy, bold flavors, and a party-ready atmosphere that leans fully into Palm Springs after dark. This is not a quiet, candlelit dinner spot but a social hub where cocktails flow freely, and the vibe is as important as the food.
The menu puts a modern, crowd-pleasing spin on Mexican classics, with creative tacos, shareable plates, and plenty of options designed for grazing. My favorites include birria-style tacos, carne asada, and inventive vegetarian options, all built for flavor and speed.
The real draw is the bar program: an extensive list of mezcal and tequila-forward cocktails that skew strong, smoky, and fun.
15. Lola Rose Grand Mezze
Lola Rose Grand Mezze brings a modern Middle Eastern sensibility to Palm Springs dining, with a menu designed for sharing. The focus is on mezze-style plates with dishes like creamy hummus, grilled meats, fresh salads, and warm flatbreads, all served in a setting that’s intimate and softly stylish.
The atmosphere is warm and social, ideal for group dinners or a relaxed evening when ordering “one of everything” is the goal. Service is attentive without hovering, encouraging a slow, communal pace that works well for long desert evenings.
16. Copley’s on Palm Canyon
Copley’s is my recommendation for when you want Palm Springs to feel undeniably romantic. Set on the former estate of Cary Grant, it’s one of those places where the setting is everything, especially if you snag a table on the candlelit patio, framed by palms and mountain views.
I always recommend arriving just before sunset, when the light softens, and the atmosphere shifts into something quietly special.
The menu is classic with a refined California touch, focusing on steaks, seafood, and seasonal dishes that feel right at home in such a storied setting. Service is polished and attentive, and the pacing encourages you to linger rather than rush through the meal. F
or me, Copley’s is ideal for a celebratory dinner, an anniversary, or any night when you want Palm Springs dining to feel elegant, timeless, and a little bit cinematic.
17. Las Casuelas Terraza
Las Casuelas Terraza is a Palm Springs institution, known for its festive energy, generous portions, and consistently reliable Mexican cuisine. The expansive patio is lively, especially in the evenings, and the menu covers all the classics—from enchiladas and fajitas to house margaritas that go down easily.
Service is fast and friendly, the atmosphere is fun, and it’s an easy pick for groups or anyone craving a casual, high-energy dinner that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
18. King’s Highway
Located inside the Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs, King’s Highway channels roadside Americana with a modern, desert-cool twist. The menu focuses on updated comfort food—burgers, sandwiches, breakfast plates, and nostalgic classics—served in a space that feels relaxed and social.
It’s popular for breakfast and lunch, especially on weekends, and works well for casual meals between pool sessions. Service is laid-back, the vibe is effortlessly cool, and it’s a reliable option when you want something easy without sacrificing atmosphere.
19. The Pink Cabana
Set inside the Sands Hotel & Spa in Indian Wells, The Pink Cabana is one of the Coachella Valley’s most stylish dining destinations and well worth the short drive from Palm Springs.
Designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the space is instantly recognizable—bold patterns, pink accents, lush greenery, and a glamorous, retro-meets-Mediterranean aesthetic that feels transportive and fun without tipping into kitsch.
The menu brings Mediterranean with Californian influences to Indian Wells, focusing on fresh seafood, grilled meats, bright salads, and shareable plates that suit the setting perfectly.
Dishes are light, colorful, and designed for lingering lunches or elegant dinners, especially when paired with the relaxed, resort-like atmosphere.
Best Cafes, Bars, Bakeries, Coffee
Farm
Farm is one of the breakfast restaurants in Palm Springs. Tucked just off Palm Canyon Drive, the restaurant feels like a Provençal daydream dropped into the desert, complete with a leafy courtyard and whitewashed walls.
The menu is very French bistro style, with the croque madame being a perennial favorite. The quiche of the day, often filled with seasonal vegetables, is excellent, while the pain perdu (French toast) is indulgent without tipping into dessert territory. Pastries are baked in-house, coffee is strong and taken seriously, and service is brisk but friendly.
Cheeky’s
Cheeky’s is a Palm Springs breakfast and brunch institution, best known for its rotating bacon selection and inventive takes on morning classics.
The vibe is casual and upbeat, the plates are generous, and the menu goes beyond basics with seasonal ingredients and playful twists. Expect a wait on weekends—but it moves quickly and is usually worth it.
Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
A longtime local favorite, Sherman’s delivers classic New York–style deli comfort in unapologetically large portions. There are towering sandwiches, matzo ball soups, house-baked pastries, and desserts that could easily feed two.
It’s casual, old-school, and ideal when you’re hungry post-hike and not in the mood to overthink things.
Seymour’s
Seymour’s is one of Palm Springs’ best-kept secrets, hidden behind an unassuming door inside Mr. Lyon’s. The room is dark, intimate, and serious about cocktails.
The bar menu focuses on classics and spirit-forward cocktails, executed with precision. Expect perfect martinis, old fashioneds with real depth, and seasonal specials that don’t stray too far from the fundamentals. The bartenders know their craft and are happy to guide you if you’re undecided.
It’s ideal for pre-dinner drinks, date nights, or when you want a break from Palm Springs’ brighter, louder venues.
Bootlegger Tiki
Bootlegger Tiki is pure, unapologetic Palm Springs fun with over-the-top decor, tropical kitsch, carved tiki idols, glowing lights- the lot.
The drinks are rum-forward and strong, served in elaborate glassware with names that lean into escapism. Classics like Mai Tais and Zombie-style cocktails dominate, and portions are generous. This is not the place for subtlety, so you might need to pace yourself.
The atmosphere is lively, slightly chaotic, and completely entertaining, and the service definitely matches that energy.
Del Rey
While Del Rey is technically a restaurant, I think of it first—and foremost—as a bar. I’ve never actually eaten here, so I can’t speak to the food in detail, but what I can vouch for is the atmosphere and drinks, which are reason enough to visit.
Tucked inside Villa Royale, Del Rey has a moody, design-forward vibe that feels intimate and slightly cinematic, especially in the evening when the lights are low and the courtyard is glowing.
The drinks are excellent—well-made, balanced, and suited to slow sipping rather than quick rounds. It’s a great spot for one cocktail or a few, pre- or post-dinner.
Townie Bagels
Townie Bagels keeps it simple and does it well—properly chewy bagels, classic spreads, and breakfast sandwiches that hit exactly the spot. It’s a no-frills stop, perfect for grabbing something quick before a hike or the drive out of town.
Koffi Central
Koffi Central is a Palm Springs staple for a reason: strong coffee, a relaxed pace, and a reliable neighborhood feel. It’s ideal for easing into the morning, lingering with a book, or grabbing caffeine before heading out to explore.
Cartel Roasting Co
Cartel Roasting Co. brings serious coffee cred to the desert, with well-sourced beans, expertly pulled espresso, and a clean, modern space. I personally think it’s the best coffee spot in Palm Springs, and it’s a favorite for those who take their coffee seriously and want something sharp, fast, and consistent.
Kreem
Kreem is all about indulgence, in the form of handcrafted ice cream, playful flavors, and a fun, casual vibe. It’s an easy dessert stop after dinner or a midday treat when the desert heat hits hardest.
Ready to dine at the restaurants in Palm Springs? Have any questions or comments about your trip? Let me know in the box below.
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