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 in the Palm Springs area. 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 5-minute walk from Twin Palms, just head up Camino Real towards Palm Canyon Drive.
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. Less than a 10-minute walk from Twin Palms.
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. About a 15-minute walk or quick bike ride from Twin Palms.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11 AM-3 PM
Felipe’s
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A local favorite for traditional Mexican dishes in a quieter setting near the airport. Large portions. Indoor & outdoor seating.
Open daily, 9 AM-9 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
Tyler’s Burgers
Lunch only
Casual spot for old school hamburgers, hotdogs & malts on La Plaza.
Open Monday-Saturday, 11 AM-4 PM
Blue Coyote Bar & Grill
Lunch, Dinner
Southwestern favorites, salads, and darn good 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
Chicken Ranch
Lunch, Dinner
Locally raised rotisserie chicken, sandwiches & salads. Full bar, plus a Happy Hour menu from 3 PM to close.
Open daily, 11 AM-8 PM
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
Loco Charlie’s Mexican Grill
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Classic Mexican fare + solid American breakfast. Counter service, indoor & patio seating.
Open daily until 9 PM
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