Palm Springs, California: A Guide to Must-Try Food & Drink Spots
Where to Brunch, Sip, and Dine in Palm Springs
We only had a single day to soak up Palm Springs, but the food scene alone had me plotting a return trip. Armed with insider tips from a local and my own obsessive research, I put together a hit list of must-try spots that capture the essence of desert dining. From brunch nooks to cocktail hideaways, these are the places worth your time (and appetite). Heads up: some of these spots fill up fast, so double-check if they take reservations or if it’s a “cross your fingers and wait” situation.
Here’s your roadmap to eating your way through Palm Springs, California—one bite at a time.
Get ready to eat—Palm Springs’ top spots are all here.
📍 Location: 415 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: American (New), French, Breakfast & Brunch
We went here for brunch and it was adorable! It’s a French-inspired spot with a cottage-garden vibe, and was the perfect place to sip drinks to kickstart our morning. It is apparently one of the most popular spots in town, known for keeping things fresh with a prix-fixe menu that changes daily, so you never quite know what to expect—just that it’ll be delicious.
📍 Location: 621 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: American (New), Desserts, Wine Bars
I adore this spot! We went here for my birthday dinner, and the views, food, and vibes? 10/10. Set in a historic courtyard with killer mountain views, Copley’s brings American cuisine to life in a beautifully atmospheric setting. You can stick around for dessert by the outdoor fire pits, because why not linger a little longer?
📍 Location: 2080 N Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
🍴 What: Cocktail Bars, American (New), Lounges
This stylish, pet-friendly spot mixes seasonal SoCal-inspired small plates with a killer cocktail lineup. Boozehounds has a laidback vibe and outdoor space perfect for lounging with friends, both two- and four-legged. Drop by for a drink or stay for the shareable plates that make it a local favorite.
📍 Location: 339 S Belardo Rd, Palm Springs
🍴 What: American (New), Cocktail Bar
With a Boho rooftop vibe at La Serena Villas, Azucar pairs Mediterranean and Mexican-inspired dishes with iconic mountain views. Settle in for a cocktail on the rooftop deck at Sugar High—it seems as dreamy as it sounds.
📍 Location: 622 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: Pizza, Cocktail Bar, Italian
In a cozy courtyard with fairy lights, Birba dishes out wood-fired pizzas and a selection of craft cocktails. I’m told the pizza and gnocchi are serious standouts, so be sure to book a table to beat the crowd. This is where I wanted to initially go for my birthday dinner, but there were no reservations left (so be sure to book in advance).
📍 Location: 356 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: Vietnamese, American (New)
This Vietnamese-American fusion spot has a cult following for its fresh, bold flavors. It’s popular with locals and visitors alike, so expect a bit of a wait—it seems worth it.
📍 Location: 1050 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: American (New)
Nestled at L’Horizon Resort & Spa, SO.PA serves New American fare and craft cocktails in a courtyard setting. It’s the ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a laidback evening with friends.
📍 Location: 622 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: Brunch
A Palm Springs brunch spot with a menu that rotates weekly, so there’s always something new to try. Was told that there’s usually a wait—but it’s worth it for dishes like the bacon flight and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
📍 Location: 445 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🌮 What: Mexican, Casual
Casual Mexican food with a no-fuss vibe. It’s the spot for margaritas, tacos, and a solid lineup of Mexican classics in a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for a chill night out.
📍 Location: 706 S Eugene Rd, Palm Springs
🥗 What: Vegan
This all-vegan lunch spot proves plant-based can be satisfying for everyone, even die-hard carnivores. Everything is homemade, from the “meat” options to the sauces, and the sandwiches are packed with flavor. I’m told you should get there early since this place gets busy!
📍 Location: 1556 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍣 What: Sushi
Sushi in the desert might sound risky, but Sandfish is consistently listed on Eater and Infatuation lists. Their sushi and whiskey pairings bring a fresh, modern twist to Palm Springs dining.
Norma’s at the Parker Palm Springs
📍 Location: 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: Breakfast & Brunch, American (New)
Known for its brunch scene, Norma’s outdoor terrace is a colorful spot to start your day. Located at the Parker, it’s a Palm Springs classic—perfect for people-watching and leisurely mornings.
📍 Location: 800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍴 What: American (New), Breakfast & Brunch, Cocktail Bar, Music Venue
Workshop’s industrial vibes meet farm-to-table magic, making it an ideal dinner spot. After your meal, hit up Truss and Twine next door for cocktails and maybe even a live DJ.
Coffee, Desserts, and Cocktails
📍 Location: 1101 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍹 What: Tiki Bar
Yum! We went here and it was a lot of fun. Looking for tropical vibes? Bootlegger Tiki is the place to dive into some serious cocktail creativity. Perfect for those who want a taste of the islands in the middle of the desert.
📍 Location: 701 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍹 What: Cocktail Bar
This hipster-friendly spot at the Ace Hotel is all about craft beer and relaxed vibes. Great for a low-key hangout after a long day exploring.
📍 Location: 800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍸 What: Cocktail Bar, Lounge
A must for cocktail lovers—sip through the eras in history from Prohibition classics to modern-day creations. The industrial-cool setting and expertly crafted drinks make it a top spot for a laid-back night out or post-dinner drinks.
📍 Location: 160 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍦 What: Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Great Shakes. From shakes to malts topped with whipped cream and mini donuts, it’s a sugary wonderland worth every calorie.
📍 Location: 170 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
🍦 What: Ice Cream
We went here to cool down after our leisurely bike ride. It’s an artisanal ice cream shop known for unique flavors like ube and matcha. Go straight for the ube—it’s a fan favorite. The scoops here are rich, creamy, and always made from scratch.
📍 Location: 1101 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
☕️ What: Coffee & Tea
When you’re ready for a coffee break, Cartel has your back with quality brews and a laid-back vibe that’ll recharge you for more desert exploring.
📍 Location: 1101 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs
☕️ What: Coffee Shop
Another solid option for caffeine lovers, Ernest Coffee serves up great coffee in a cozy, relaxed space—ideal for starting your day in Palm Springs.
If you’re breezing through on a day trip or planning a longer stay, Palm Springs’ food and drink scene will keep you busy (and very well-fed). So, next time you’re in the desert, make sure your taste buds get the full tour. Cheers!