We spent seven weeks in the greater Palm Springs area, enjoying the weather, hiking, golf and much more. We didn’t eat out a lot, both due to Covid and to stay on budget. But when we did eat out we tried to visit some of the best of the valley, as well as some lesser known places. There are literally thousands of restaurants to chose from. Everything from Mexican or burgers to seafood and steak. Every cuisine of the world is available somewhere in the area. And we made some favorite dining discoveries around Palm Springs.
We tried to explore and through our exploration we offer a list of some favorites we found. Next time you are in the greater Palm Springs California area, you might consider some of these restaurants. And by the way, wherever you are, please support local restaurants and shops to help keep them alive and well during the pandamit…oops I mean pandemic.
Eat Here
Sherman’s Deli – an institution in the valley, Sherman’s is a true New York style deli and bakery. We ate here twice, once for lunch and once for dinner. In true NY fashion they served Matzo Ball soup, Corned Beef on Rye, Chopped Liver, Hot Pastrami and much much more. https://shermansdeli.com/menus/
Tyler’s Burgers – Many people recommended Tyler’s to us as the best burger in the valley, so yep had to try it. We both had the bacon cheeseburger and it was real good…but even better was the amazing potato salad, just like my mom used to make. http://tylersburgers.com
Grind Burger – my husband Arne thinks this was the best burger in the valley. A tiny little eat in or take-away joint in Palm Desert. https://www.gastrogrindburgers.com
Armando’s Mexican – on El Paseo in Palm Desert you’ll find dozens of restaurants, but we happened upon Armando’s (no website) for just an appetizer and drink one afternoon. Outdoor seating was excellent, service was great and so was the food.
Paul Bar – located in a sad little strip mall, Paul Bar was a huge surprise. Despite currently only being take-out, we loved our food we got there, especially the Bacon Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. https://www.thepaulbarps.com
Pieros – one of the best meals I had anywhere in the valley. Pieros is known for it’s pizza but I had the Short Ribs and Arne ordered Lasagna. We also enjoyed the Tuscan Wedge Salad. This is definitely one of my favorite dining discoveries around Palm Springs. https://www.pizzavinotogo.com
Chef Georges Picasso – hidden in a little shopping center in the tiny community of Bermuda Dunes near La Quinta, this place has a giant menu of many European specialties and a particular focus on Hungarian food. Great service, huge portions. http://chefgeorgespicasso.com
Lavender Bistro- definitely the loveliest meal we had both for ambiance and food. This was a bit of a splurge for us but worth it for sure. A gorgeous lighted patio, well protected from the wind and top-notch service in every way. My filet mignon and Caesar salad were perfect. https://www.lavenderbistro.com
John Henry’s – we learned about this restaurant from a local couple we golfed with. They said we had to try it, even though few visitors ever go there. I’m really glad we did. The outdoor patio was beautiful and everyone in our group enjoyed their food from steak to sea Bass. I had Osso Buco and it was delicious. Reservations a must. https://www.johnhenryscafe.com
The Daily Grill – located on El Paseo in Palm Desert this is a great place to sit on the outdoor patio and watch the ridiculously expensive cars drive by: Bentley…Maserati..Jaguar.. Ferrari. Excellent and inexpensive for breakfast lunch or dinner. https://www.dailygrill.com
Farm – we only went to breakfast once during our visit and I am so glad we chose to eat at Farm. Tucked into the cutest little space right in old Palm Spring, the outdoor patio is bursting with flowers.
Also For Your Consideration
Outside of the valley we also really enjoyed Cafe Aroma in Idyllwild, Pie at Julian Pie Company as well as La Cucina Mexican in Anza ( no website). All worth a visit if you are in the area.
Finally, a shout out to two local microbreweries. If you like to visit brewpubs when traveling don’t miss La Quinta Brewing and Desert Beer Company.
Covid in California
As of this writing, only outdoor dining is open in California. But the nice weather in the valley makes outdoor dining easy. Most restaurants have expanded their outdoor seating and diners are enjoying the new spaces. Masks are still required. Remember the temperatures drop in the desert so bring an extra layer for evening dining. Also, because of reduced capacity, make a reservation no matter where you want to eat.
Read last week’s blog about the Flora of the Desert here.
See this week’s top performing pin here Book Review Ordinary Grace.
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11 Comments
Ooh so many great places to eat. I’d definitely head for the Filet Mignon at Lavender first. It looks delicious, and can’t go wrong with a good steak.
March 19, 2021 at 5:17 pmIt’s a rare treat for me and it was yummy.
March 20, 2021 at 5:41 amNow I am hungry even though I have eaten. So delicious looking and hopefully others will be able to visit and try this gorgeous looking food.
March 19, 2021 at 5:34 pmGreat that you were able to find so many great spots to eat outside at this time. We certainly had no trouble finding great food in Palm Desert. I think the only place we hit on your list was the Daily Grind. Tasty reasons to head back!
March 20, 2021 at 9:40 amWe will also be back!
March 21, 2021 at 6:20 amI love your food posts! These all look delicious. I just ate breakfast and you’re making me want dinner! Glad outdoor dining is open.
March 20, 2021 at 12:54 pmThanks!
March 21, 2021 at 6:20 amWe are in Palm Desert now and are glad to have your suggestions. So many great places to eat down here. Sherman’s is definitely at the top of the list and, if you enjoy chile rellenos, Pueblo Viejo is my gold standard.
March 20, 2021 at 10:40 pmI hope you enjoy some of these!
March 21, 2021 at 6:19 amOh, I think everyone is salivating whilst reading your article – I know I am! Some delightful dining discoveries in Palm Springs.
March 21, 2021 at 8:39 amWell this makes me hungry. Don and I are not big meat eaters, nor big eaters, so I can see at most places we’d be ordering one meal and an extra plate so we could share it. But I’m sure we’d make do lol. Great post Laureen.
March 21, 2021 at 11:34 am