Discover the Best New Restaurants in Greater Palm Springs: Winter 2020 Highlights
Make this winter unforgettable by exploring fresh dining spots and savoring delectable dishes at recently opened restaurants in this Southern California oasis. Dive into the latest culinary gems in Greater Palm Springs, a premier food destination.
Little Bar
Step into Little Bar in Palm Desert to uncover its rich history and exceptional menu. Owned by Skip Paige, former COO of Goldenvoice, this spot transformed in fall 2019 from beloved local breakfast haven Randy's Café. Now, it offers cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, plus lunch, dinner, and late-night bites.
Breakfast returns Saturdays and Sundays with Randy in the kitchen. Admire wallpaper featuring over 30 years of Paige's music memorabilia from his fan days and concert production career. All menu items draw from Paige's personal recipes, including standout Tatchos (tater tot nachos, as shown above), cheeseburgers, Paradise Mule cocktail, and Tamarindo Margarita.
Tac/Quila
Tac/Quila, the freshest Mexican hotspot in the oasis, is gaining rapid acclaim. Its stunning tile décor and sultry ambiance set the stage for authentic Jalisco-style cuisine.
Begin with Shredded Chicken Nachos, then indulge in must-try tacos like Al Pastor Street Tacos, Carnitas Street Tacos, or Fried Calamari Gourmet Taco. Elevate with a flight of four margaritas or three sangrias. As the heart of Mexico in downtown Palm Springs, Tac/Quila ensures guests leave delighted, full, and satisfied.
Roly China Fusion
Roly China Fusion, opened by local restaurateur Chad Gardner (also of 533 Viet Fusion and Dash and a Handful Catering), delivers a vibrant, refined experience. Chef DJ Cheek, formerly of TAO Los Angeles and Las Vegas, reimagines fresh, locally sourced Chinese dishes with modern flair.
Expect global flavors, creative presentations, and seven daily dim sum varieties. Mostly gluten-free with vegetarian and vegan options, top picks include Miso-Glazed Seabass and Pineapple Fried Rice—traditional yet innovative.
The Sandbox Kitchen
Craving hearty breakfast or lunch? The Sandbox Kitchen in Palm Desert delivers home-style comfort. Try the Stack of Madagascar Vanilla Pancakes or BreakFast Tacos X3 (three tacos with eggs, bacon, beans, hashbrowns, pico de gallo, crema fresca, and cheese). They host private events, taco catering, and specials. Call 760-565-6044 for details.
Eddie V's Palm Desert
Elevate fine dining at new Eddie V's in Palm Desert's El Paseo Shopping District. Specializing in prime seafood, hand-carved steaks, craft cocktails, and world-class wines.
Reserve for daily flown-in global seafood: seasonal oysters with notes, Crab Fried Rice, Chilean Sea Bass Steamed Hong Kong Style, Cold Water Lobster Tails, and Parmesan Sole. Enjoy nightly live music trios for vibrant nightlife.
Las Palmas Brewing
Visit Las Palmas Brewing, downtown Palm Springs' hippest brewery—a family-owned beer garden and natural wine bar with indoor, patio, and backyard seating. Palm Springs' only on-site brewery uses a two-barrel system for experimental, rotating brews.
Weekend food vendor collaborations create the ideal cozy spot for locals and visitors.
RD RNNR Libations Pints & Plates
Pronounced "Roadrunner," RD RNNR Libations Pints & Plates brings craft American fare to Old Town La Quinta. Enjoy farm-to-table produce, craft cocktails, and rotating taps.
Must-tries: Mac & Whaaat (jalapeño & cauliflower mac & cheese with smoked gouda, white cheddar, parmesan, RNNR dust) or Cheesesteak (braised short rib, shishito peppers, caramelized onions, roasted jalapeños, white cheddar, house pickle).
Enzo’s Bistro & Bar Rancho Mirage
New Enzo’s Bistro & Bar in Rancho Mirage serves elevated Italian classics and Calabrian dishes from the Novello family's Southern Italy recipes. Spacious indoor/outdoor areas and lively bar suit groups or dates.
Daily happy hour (3-7 p.m.) features beer, wine, martini specials, and shareables like Polpette (handmade meatballs in marinara). Dinner highlight: Enzo’s Lasagna Calabrese-style with house marinara, sausage, ricotta, Parmigiana Reggiano, and Romano Pecorino.
Tu Madres Cantina & Grill
From the Heirloom Craft Kitchen and Cork & Fork team, Tu Madres Cantina & Grill in Indio offers modern Mexican and Baja cuisine, plus extensive tequila and craft beers.
Local, organic ingredients shine in vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options like Nachos Libres, Crispy Fried Avocado Tacos, and Esquites. Opening early 2020.
The oasis dining scene thrives endlessly. For sweets, check our Best Restaurants for Late-Night Desserts in Greater Palm Springs.
