Palm Springs has been our go-to weekend escape for years, and for good reason! Just a two-hour drive from LA, it’s all sunshine, palm trees, and guacamole—what more could you ask for? Whether you're there for a quick getaway or a long, leisurely stay, I’ve got you covered with my top picks for where to eat, stay, and play in the desert. Let's do this!
COFFEE + BREAKFAST + BRUNCH:
Koffi – A local favorite for expertly brewed coffee and fresh pastries.
Cheeky’s – My go-to for a casual breakfast! There’s usually a wait, but it’s 100% worth it. Get the chilaquiles! If you miss breakfast, their sister restaurant Birba has you covered.
Norma’s – A must-visit inside The Parker. Think boozy brunch meets leisurely luxury, followed by a visit to the lemonade bar.
Kings Highway – A cozy, cash-only diner offering everything from avocado toast to Belgian waffles.
Townie Bagels – The spot for old-school, freshly made bagels when you need a quick bite.
Boozehounds – A stylish, dog-friendly brunch spot that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious.
LUNCH:
So.Pa – An all-day outdoor restaurant serving incredible Middle Eastern fare in a dreamy setting.
Las Casuelas Terraza – A legendary family-owned Mexican spot in the heart of downtown, with an unbeatable patio vibe.
Heydey – The best smash burgers in Palm Springs. A must-try for burger lovers!
Real Deal Italian Deli – For when you need an authentic, satisfying Italian sandwich.
El Salvador Cafe – A hidden gem serving incredible pupusas and other Salvadoran specialties.
Gabino's Creperie – A food truck turned local favorite, serving delicious, savory, and sweet crepes.
DINNER:
Bar Cecil – This is the spot. Elevated Californian-American fare, killer cocktails, and fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Say less.
Rooster and the Pig – A Vietnamese-American restaurant with incredible sharing plates that will blow your mind.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar – A chic, minimalist-designed space serving seasonal dishes. If the octopus is on the menu, order it!
Melvyn’s – An iconic Palm Springs steakhouse located at the Ingleside Inn. Old-school elegance at its best.
Birba – The perfect place for pizza, wood-fired goodness, and strong cocktails.
4 Saints – Rooftop dining at the Kimpton with food that’s just as epic as the views.
Mr. Lyons – A modern steakhouse that delivers on all fronts.
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey – A sleek, Scandinavian-designed sushi bar serving hand-crafted sushi with whiskey pairings.
WHERE TO DRINK:
Colony Palms – A perfect spot for a poolside cocktail and prime people-watching.
Cork & Fork – A charming wine bar in La Quinta with an excellent selection and next-level poke nachos.
El Jefe – Because no trip to the desert is complete without tacos, guacamole, and a killer margarita.
La Quinta Resort + Club – A sophisticated piano bar with a stellar wine list, plus multiple restaurants with gorgeous outdoor seating.
WHERE TO STAY:
Travlr Home Rentals – Impeccably designed vacation homes with the best vibes in town.
Colony Palms – My absolute favorite Palm Springs hotel. Small but stylish pool, amazing guac, and a prime location for exploring.
Rowan Palm Springs – A chic Kimpton property with great food and a Vegas-like party atmosphere.
Holiday House – A dreamy boutique hotel with a killer pool and unbeatable vibes.
La Quinta Resort + Club – A stunning resort outside of Palm Springs proper, ideal if you’re here for Coachella, the Indian Wells tennis tournament, or just a change of scenery.
And that’s a wrap on my favorite things to do in Palm Springs! If you’re looking for more city guides check these out:
- Gaby’s Guide to Los Angeles, CA
- Gaby’s Guide to Santa Ynez (and surrounding areas)
- Gaby’s Guide to Santa Barbara
- Gaby’s Guide to Ojai
- Gaby’s Guide to San Francisco, CA
- Gaby’s Guide to NYC
Did I miss anything? Shout it out in the comments below so I can go give it a try!!
Not a food-thing, but the art museum is really great! Was just there last weekend and saw the David Hockney exhibit.
Hi! Headed to Palm Springs for Thanksgiving this year. We have a large group of family and friends & I'd like to host dinner at our rental house one night BUT ideally would have it catered. Do you have any recommendations for local chefs or companies that provide and deliver prepared meals?? Thanks so much 🙂 (I deleted my Insta b/c ya know....social experiment I guess....otherwise I'd DM you!)
You could try reaching out to Whoa Nelly catering and ask them! They are LA based but they do events in PS all the time
Hi! In Palm Springs today - what’s your fave menu item at boozehounds? I’m indecisive lol;)!
Thank you Gaby. I am going in two weeks. Are there any updates to your list. Thank again and happy new year
Stephanie
I’m going to Palm Desert for 3 weeks, so thanks for the list. We’re golfers so Palm Desert is our favorite, and it’s next door to Palm Springs.
Any other places in the desert that you’ve been too?
You’re the best
everything is on the list but we go every few months so I will always update when I find a new gem!
We go to PS every year, and will definitely have to check out more of these recommendations!!!
FAZE
What’s the area best to stay in in Palm Springs if renting a house?
I like to stay as close to palm springs proper as possible so I can walk to dinners!
Great list Gabby. I only discovered the joy of Palm Springs last year, even though I've been in LA forever, and I have to agree - palm trees and guacamole. What more do we really need (except that list of fantastic places to eat). Cheers!
Great sandwiches can be found at Aspen Mills (look it up!). They bake all the bread in the store and you can buy loaves for the road. SO good!!