Restaurants within Walking Distance
Surrounded by the lush gardens inside Santiago’s seemingly secluded courtyard, it’s easy to forget that some of Palm Springs’ tastiest South End restaurants are just a short stroll or bike ride away. After a long day of travel or lounging by the pool, here’s a rundown of some our favorite places to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Please keep in mind that operating hours and days often vary seasonally here in the desert. It’s always best to do a little googling before you head out on foot.
Del Rey
1620 S Indian Trail
This sexy little hideaway at the Villa Royale hotel is a beautiful spot for happy hour or dinner. There are a dozen different tapas to choose from, a fun selection of conservas to explore (tinned seafood delicacies), and over-the-top cocktails. A little on the spendy side, but the food is really good and the clubby vibe is classic Palm Springs. A lovely 15-minute walk from Santiago, especially if you go through the Deepwell neighborhood. Reservations recommended; request a booth in the dimly lit dining room. Open for Happy Hour Friday-Tuesday 4-6pm and Dinner Thursday-Tuesday 5-10pm. Closed Wednesdays.
Gabino’s Creperie
170 E Palm Canyon Drive
Serving only lunch, this foodie hotspot for non-traditional savory crepes is hidden down a tiny side alley off East Palm Canyon. Every crepe is made-to-order with satisfying fillings like chicken and pesto, or buffalo chicken. The cheese blend with chimichurri is a knockout, and seasonal specials are usually winners. Window-service and limited outdoor seating, no alcoholic drinks. Gabino’s is about a 15-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride from Santiago. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-3pm
El Mirasol South
140 E Palm Canyon Drive
This family-owned restaurant is a local favorite for especially tasty (and large) margaritas, plus classic Mexican dishes made from scratch. The atmosphere is festive, although not quite as charming as the downtown location. Indoor and patio seating available. A quick 15-minute walk around the bend of Palm Canyon. Open 11am-9pm, closed Monday & Tuesday.
Spaghetteria
611 S Palm Canyon Drive
There’s nothing fancy about Spaghetteria, but sometimes that’s just what you’re after. Family-owned and operated, it’s kind of like going to your Italian aunt’s house for dinner. You don’t have an Italian aunt? Well now you do, at Spaghetteria! The Chicken Parm with a side of ziti is a crowd pleaser, and they also have thin crust pizza. About a 15-minute walk towards downtown, inside the same shopping center as Revivals thrift shop. Open daily, noon-8pm.
Tony's Grill and Bar
665 S Palm Canyon Drive
A brand new hole in the wall know for its giant delicious burgers and selection of funky fries. Bring your appetite, you will not be dissapointed! Right around the corner, next to the car wash. Open daily, 10AM-9pm.
Wrap Houz
555 S Palm Canyon Drive
From savory shawarmas to crispy falafel, Wrap Houz features a delicious variety of freshly prepared Arabic fast food options. This is a super casual spot, best for grab and go, with limited outdoor seating only, but you’ll find ample portions, reasonable prices, and really tasty food. Vegan and vegetarian options available. About a 15-minute walk towards downtown, or cross the footbridge and follow the wash for a more scenic route. Open Tuesday-Saturday, noon-8:30pm. Closed Sunday & Monday.
Cipolline Osteria
1260 S Palm Canyon Drive
Newly re-opened in March 2024, the menu at this classic Italian spot includes traditional favorites like Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Scallopini, Neapolitan-style pizza, and house-made pasta. Several vegan options available. Just a 10-minute walk south from Santiago. Currently open Friday & Saturday from 5-10pm. Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 5-9pm. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Bar Cecil
1555 S Palm Canyon Drive
Sumptuously designed with a great vibe, gorgeous food, and a wonderful collection of modern art, Bar Cecil is one of the hottest restaurants in town. Reservations in the dining room are notoriously difficult to secure. But since you’re a friend, we’ll let you in on a little secret: seats at the divine marble bar are available for walk-ins. Get there early – the first bar list fills up around 4:30 for the 5pm opening. Or you might get lucky and snag a seat during the 6:30-7:15pm window when the first wave of bar seating turns over. We’ll keep our fingers crossed for you! Less than a 15-minute walk from the resort. Open from 5-10pm (kitchen closes at 9pm). Closed Mondays.
Miro’s
1555 S Palm Canyon Drive
Combining recipes from both Mediterranean and Central European cuisines, Miro’s is a wonderful upscale dining spot with a charming patio and more formal dining room. Absolutely a local favorite, with impeccable service and a warm ambience. Less than a 15-minute walk from Santiago, just past Bar Cecil. Open from 5-9pm, closed Tuesdays.
Lastly, two favorites we would be remiss not to mention:
Kreem
170 E Palm Canyon Drive
Craving something sweet? Kreem was one of the first artisanal ice cream shops to open in Palm Springs, and remains one of the very best. Everything is made in-house, including a tempting selection of vegan options. If you feel like sharing, Kreem serves up a dee-lish banana split with ALL the fixings in a Chinese takeout box. Kreem is a 15-minute walk from Santiago, or pedal over on one of our cruisers. Open until 9pm, closed Mondays.
Townie Bagels
650 E Sunny Dunes Road
If you’re in the mood for a morning walk or bike ride and want to hang like a local, don’t miss Townies. Known for authentic New York style water-boiled bagels, strong coffee, and a buzzy atmosphere, Townies is just minutes from the resort, down the street and across the walking bridge to the other side of the wash. Open 6:30am-Noon, closed Tuesdays.