Palm Springs Area Al Fresco Dining: Five of the Best!
Apr 22 '01
The Bottom Line The Palm Springs area is perfect for outdoor dining; here is a variety of the best of many great places!
What better way is there to end a day of fun in the sun in the Palm Springs area than a meal outdoors? Outstanding restaurants abound in the Coachella Valley, and many feature al fresco dining. My husband and I have owned property here for the past eight years, and after a day on the golf course, or by the pool or shopping, we devote our weekend evenings there to searching out and experiencing the best in Palm Springs area dining. Here are five of our favorites that feature dining outdoors; the first two are great for any time of day, the last three are primarily (if not exclusively) dinner venues:
The Daily Grill
73061 El Paseo
Palm Desert
Part of a chain of upscale American restaurants, The Daily Grill outlet near the western end of trendy-chic shopping street, El Paseo, has several tables outside that are perfect for brunch and people watching. Featuring a great Cobb salad, huge sandwiches and interesting omelets, The Daily Grill is a terrific place to refuel while doing some serious shopping. Though The Daily Grill serves a wide variety of food, it cannot be considered a "coffee shop" in the traditional sense; with its full-service bar, relatively high prices and dark wood decor, it's more like a modern version of Hollywood's Musso and Frank. Atmosphere: 5; Food: 6; Service: 6. $$
Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe
73595 El Paseo
Palm Desert
(760) 836-0188
If Ralph Lauren is the quintessential representation of the upscale preppy lifestyle, Tommy Bahama is all things "tropical-chic-relaxed". Beginning about five years ago as a men's high-end tropical clothing line, TB now encompasses an entire life-style: men's and women's clothing, accessories, furniture and food. TB has a huge branch in the Palm Desert outdoor "mall" in the middle of El Paseo; merchandise is available downstairs, and its restaurant is upstairs. Gloriously tropical, Tommy Bahama's features a lovely bar and dining area inside, as well as a huge outdoor dining area, complete with steel drum band most weekends. Though seemingly out of place in the desert, TB's takes you to the tropics, big-time! Pina coladas, rum punches and margaritas are nicely accompanied by such appetizers as crab cakes, chicken satay and other treats. The menu features Caribbean, Polynesian and Asian specialties in salads, sandwiches and main plates. Prices are moderate to expensive, service is casual (by young waitstaff dressed head-to-toe in Tommy Bahama togs), and the atmosphere is both relaxed and fun. Reservations a MUST for weekends; ask for an outdoor table. Atmosphere: 8; Food: 6; Service: 6. $$
L.G.'s Steakhouse
255 Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs
(760) 836-0811
Though both Ruth's Chris and Morton's of Chicago have branches in the Desert area, L.G.'s is a "local" steakhouse, its three branches owned and operated by a long-time resident. The Palm Springs branch is located in the heart of Palm Springs, right on Palm Canyon Drive. If you love steaks, this is the best of the best. The huge Porterhouse, the house specialty, is perfect for a couple to share. I also heartily recommend the Caesar salad and creamed spinach. Everything is a la carte here, and very pricey, but the steaks melt in your mouth, and sides are fresh and well prepared. The outdoor dining area is right on the street and features a huge fire pit and heaters for winter dining. L.G.'s is a terrific spot for a Thursday night dinner under the stars, since the Palm Springs craft and produce fair is held weekly along Palm Canyon Drive. It's fun to eat a huge, cholesterol-laden meal and then walk it off while checking out fellow fair-goers, as well as the wares. Reservations a must! Atmosphere: 8; Food: 8; Service: 6. $$$
Le Vallauris
385 W. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs
(760) 325-5059
Tucked away on a side street just west of bustling Palm Canyon Drive, Le Vallauris is the legendary bastion of fine French dining in the Coachella Valley. Located in a U-shaped former desert villa, Le Vallauris is formal without being pretentious, quiet without being boring, and features some of the best food this side of West Los Angeles. The outdoor patio is truly gorgeous, with large, graceful trees separating the tables and providing shade during the day, fairy-lights at night, and privacy at all times. The menu is extensive, changes daily, and is presented on a white chalkboard tableside. Traditionally French, very expensive, this is most definitely a special occasion restaurant. The waitstaff, dressed in tuxedos, is knowedgeable about both the extensive wine list and the food. They are helpful without being stuffy or obsequious. Reservations a must, especially if you wish to dine al fresco. Atmosphere: 10; Food: 8; Service: 9. Valet parking. $$$$
Jillian's
74155 El Paseo
Palm Desert
(760) 776-8242
Looking for a quiet, beautiful spot for a romantic dinner for two? Jillian's, located in a former large villa at the extreme eastern end of El Paseo, has excellent Continental food, attentive and unobtrusive service, and one of the most beautiful patio settings in the Coachella Valley. Fairy-lights dot the trees and tables are set well away from each other for privacy. Jillian's menu is extensive and features innovative salads and appetizers, fresh fish, intriguing pastas and sinful desserts, all beautifully and artistically presented. It is most definitely a "special occasion" restaurant: the perfect place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or to propose marriage. Though St. James in the Vineyard will always be my favorite spot to dine in the desert, Jillian's is a strong second. I cannot say enough nice things about EVERY aspect of this dining experience. Reservations are a must, and to dine al fresco, call at least a week ahead. Atmosphere: 10; Food: 9; Service: 9. Valet parking. $$$
You'll have a wonderful meal and an enjoyable time at each of these Palm Spring area favorites. Each is unique and special. I recommend them all without reservation! Bon appetit!
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Epinions.com ID:
Cara4fun
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Member: Jackie Stanton
Location: Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Reviews written: 64
Trusted by: 19 members
About Me:
Reading, travel, music, college football, fine food and good companionship: the best of life!
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