Author: lindsay

  • The Tropicale

    The Tropicale

    One of Palm Springs’ trendiest spots ever since it first opened in 2007, the vibrant vibe at Tropicale has never gone out of style! Modeled after the supper clubs of yesteryear, this restaurant and lounge is THE place to head for cocktails in the desert! As such, it is always packed to the gills, with stylish patrons bunched into the high-backed banquettes and lining the unique indoor/outdoor bar, which wraps its way from the main dining room through to the expansive, 2,000-square-foot blush-hued patio. Along with the sublime spirits, Tropicale serves up some great eats, as well!

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  • Le Vallauris

    Le Vallauris

    One of the city’s most upscale eateries, Le Vallauris (which made my fine dining list, as well) also features a gorgeous bar and lounge area. Accented with red and blush hues, frosted glass, soft lighting, and nightly live piano music, the space gives off a definite Old Hollywood aura – and the drinks are stellar, to boot!

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  • Melvyn’s Restaurant

    Melvyn’s Restaurant

    Another spot chock full of Tinseltown history, Melvyn’s was established in 1975 on the grounds of the charming Ingleside Estate and promptly became a haven for such luminaries as Liza Minnelli, Joey Bishop, Elizabeth Taylor and the Rat Pack. Frank Sinatra loved the place so much, he hosted the rehearsal dinner for his wedding to Barbara onsite and was known to regularly sing along to the grand piano that still sits on the premises today. If Melvyn’s walls could only talk!

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  • Copley’s On Palm Canyon

    Copley’s On Palm Canyon

    Those who prefer their cocktails with a side of Hollywood history should head straight to Copley’s on Palm Canyon, a gorgeous eatery and lounge located at what is purported to be the former guest house of Tinseltown legend Cary Grant. Boasting a gorgeous indoor bar plus a stunning patio complete with firepits and countless tucked-away enclaves, the establishment is one of the most romantic spots in Palm Springs to partake of a glass of bubbly or two!

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  • Sugar High Rooftop Lounge

    Sugar High Rooftop Lounge

    Tucked atop the roof deck of Azúcar restaurant at La Serena Villas hotel, this lounge is a vibrant hidden gem! Boasting a chic bohemian vibe, the enchanting open-air site is known for its bright pastels, cozy seating, gorgeous tiled fireplace, fab cocktails and stellar mountain views. It’s the type of place where warm blankets are offered to guests on cool desert evenings. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more gorgeous or inviting spot to imbibe in the desert!

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  • Canopy Wine Lounge

    Canopy Wine Lounge

    A new addition to the cocktail scene, this stylish watering hole opened its doors in late 2023 and promptly became a local favorite. Designed in spectacular fashion by Christopher Kennedy, the lounge is easily one of the chicest places to grab a drink in the desert, with stunning blush, green and gold accents. The beverage choices, which include over 150 wine options and a plethora of fabulous mocktails, are unparalleled, as well. A fine selection of bites and sweets are also offered.

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  • Rancho Super Car Wash

    Rancho Super Car Wash

    Anyone who has driven along CA-111 in Rancho Mirage is familiar with Rancho Super Car Wash’s famous retro signage. The neon pink display, which showcases an elephant showering itself with its trunk, initially stood at the Portland outpost of Dean, Archie and Eldon Anderson’s Elephant Super Car Wash chain, based in the Pacific Northwest. When Eldon’s daughter, Marilyn, and her husband, Richard Fromme, expanded the enterprise to the Palm Springs area in 1966, they carted the sign with them. The piece has been an icon ever since. Recently restored (and designated a historic landmark), it shines brighter and pinker than ever before and is one of the desert’s definitive must-photograph spots. Bonus – Rancho Super Car Wash offers some of the best auto clean-ups in the entire Valley.

  • Blackbook

    Blackbook

    Beloved for its formidable drink selection and award-winning American comfort fare, this spot is often heralded as having the best nachos in the desert – and that is not hyperbole! Served one-layer deep on a cookie sheet, allowing for an ideal chip-to-topping ratio, you will not find a better version anywhere else in the Valley! The eatery’s other menu items are just as tasty, with everything – and I do mean everything – made fresh in-house, and the craft cocktails superbly shaken and stirred by expert mixologists.

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  • The Body Deli’s Barbie Display

    The Body Deli’s Barbie Display

    In the heart of the Valley’s most prestigious shopping district is a skincare store that has become a destination for doll lovers. That is all thanks to owner Margaret Skarin Clark, who creates imaginatively elaborate displays featuring her extensive Barbie collection, which she has been accumulating for over 60 years. The fantastical exhibits showcase both vintage and new figurines and are changed regularly with the seasons. Pictured is the March 2023 display modeled in honor of Fashion Week El Paseo, complete with clothing inspired by Karl Lagerfeld, Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

  • Sunnylands Center & Gardens

    Sunnylands Center & Gardens

    The longtime winter home of philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg now serves as a public space where guests can wonder at the stunning desert landscape. Open Wednesday through Sunday, admission to the 15-acre visitors center is free, with plenty to peruse, including changing exhibitions, an informational film, a fabulous gift shop, a café (one of my favorite spots to grab lunch) and myriad garden paths. Guided tours are also offered of the Annenbergs’ former home, the Sunnylands Estate, a 25,000-square-foot midcentury marvel designed by A. Quincy Jones in 1960. Tours do book up far in advance, though, so plan accordingly.