Restaurant Roundup: Casual Local Favorites
Vacation is a great time to splurge on awesome dining experiences. But sometimes you just want something simple, without a lot of fanfare and fuss. For those times, our hospitality team frequents these casual local restaurants. Enjoy!
Palm Springs, South to North
King’s Highway Diner
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Eclectic spot for tasty comfort food inside a former Denny’s at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club. On Thursdays, there’s a good Taco Jueves special. You may need reservations on weekends during the high season. About a 15-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride from Santiago.
Open daily, 7 AM-10 PM
The Reef
Happy Hour, Dinner
A “tropical-themed libations sanctuary” inside the historic Caliente Tropics Hotel serving burgers, sandwiches, salads, and comfort food. About a 15-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride from Santiago.
Hula Happy Hour Mon-Thurs, 1-5 PM.
Open daily, kitchen hours vary by day.
Gabino’s Creperie
Lunch only
Foodie hotspot for non-traditional savory crepes, hidden down a tiny side alley off East Palm Canyon. Window service and limited seating, no alcoholic drinks.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11 AM-3 PM
Fisherman’s Market & Grill
Lunch, Dinner
Fish tacos and seafood specialties in a casual setting with counter service. Three locations - Downtown, Palm Desert & La Quinta. Lunch and early dinner specials are worth a look.
Open daily, 11 AM-8 PM
Bill’s Pizza
Lunch, Dinner
Specialty pizza, by the slice, or build your own.
Open Monday-Saturday, 11 AM-9/10 PM
The Hayday Burgers
Lunch, Dinner
Casual burger joint, that used to be a food truck! Delicious 'smash burger style' burgers, amazing crinkle fries, and a full liquor license.
Open 12pm-9 PM
Blue Coyote Bar & Grill
Lunch, Dinner
Southwestern favorites, salads, and margaritas in an expansive space on the main drag. Good for large groups.
Open daily, 11 AM-9 PM
El Patio
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Festive family-owned spot for authentic Mexican classics + great margaritas. Indoor & patio seating. Downtown, near the art museum.
Open daily, hours vary by day
Tony's Grill & Bar
Lunch, Dinner
Home to giant hamburgers, an assortment of fries or onion rings, hearty salads and a few traditional entrees. Just a short walk from Santiago.
Open daily, 11 AM-9PM
Peruvian Fuego
Lunch, Dinner
Tasty ceviches and classic dishes from Peru, including a knockout Peruvian rotisserie chicken. Indoor & patio seating.
Open Wednesday-Monday, 10 AM-8/9 PM
Taqueria Tlaquepaque
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Super local classic no frills Mexican. Delicious family style food, big menu, and perhaps one of the best pork carnitas in town!
Open daily until 9 PM / Friday & Saturday until 10PM
Cathedral City
Luchador Brewing Company
Lunch, Dinner
Local craft brewery with a fun vibe and indoor taco truck.
Open daily, 11:30 AM-9:30 PM
Rancho Mirage
Uncle Chai Thailand Street Food
Lunch, Dinner
Authentic Thai noodles, curries, soups, and more inside a little mall called The Atrium.
Open daily, 11 AM-3 PM and 5 PM-9 PM