This new gourmet deli/market serves up some of the best sandwiches in town (the Turkey & Brie and French Ham & Brie are my personal favorites), alongside truly stellar salads, pinsas (Roman-style pizzas), and cheese and wine pairings. The establishment also sells a highly curated selection of fromages and charcuterie boards to enjoy at home. The deli is adorable, welcoming, and oh-so delicious!
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As the name implies, this establishment is a truly authentic Italian deli and, as such, is stocked with a nice collection of European fare, including homemade noodles of every variety, imported meats, fine cheeses, gourmet olive oils, delicious baked goods, and a stunning array of deli sandwiches (all bread for which is baked on the premises daily). Not in the mood to cook dinner? The Real Italian Deli has plenty of to-go options, as well, like the Lasagna Bolognese, which is stacked about 12 inches high and, per the menu, is a “mouthwatering trip to Italy without the jet lag.” Indeed! (Bonus – there’s also a sister location in Palm Springs.)
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A true hidden gem, this tiny sandwich shop sits tucked away in a retail strip in the middle of Palm Desert’s industrial center. Despite being rather hard to find, The Lunch Spot quickly became a local favorite upon its inception in 2020. Featuring an extensive menu (there are even gluten-free options!) made with the freshest of ingredients, not to mention extremely friendly service, it is not hard to see why this place is so beloved.
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A little slice of the Big Apple in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Manhattan in the Desert is a genuine New York-style Jewish deli specializing in lox, homemade soups, hot dogs and sandwiches, the latter of which are all served “mile-high,” stacked to perfection and with a free sampling of delicious pickled goods.
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Founded by Sherman Harris in 1953, this spot is a Palm Springs institution, with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Bob Hope to Rita Hayworth popping by in its early days! Still going strong more than 70 years later, the eatery’s signature Club (pictured) is hands-down one of the best.sandwiches.anywhere. But there are countless other offerings to be had, such as salads, pasta, incredible baked goods, and pretty much anything else you could ever hope to order, including gluten-free dishes. The deli also boasts a sister location in Palm Desert (which was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives!”), but the original is the best.
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While this place whips up some spectacular sandwiches, On the Mark is so much more than just a deli. A relative newcomer, the upscale market is also stocked with shelf upon shelf of gourmet goods, including small batch olive oils, select wines, unique spices, exceptional desserts, a plethora of culinary-related gifts, and an overwhelming assortment of meats and cheeses, sure to elevate any charcuterie board. Bonus – sandwich offerings can be ordered to go or enjoyed on the front patio.
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Another out-of-the-way spot, this one is also worth the drive, especially if you are visiting Joshua Tree. Featuring an eclectic menu with a slew of vegan and plant-based options, the food is truly out of this world, and the atmosphere is extremely welcoming. The chicken tacos are my personal favorite and, while no longer listed on the menu, are still readily available to patrons in the know.
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Located 30 miles north of Palm Springs, this eatery is a bit out of the way but is a must-stop if you’re heading to Joshua Tree or Yucca Valley. Boasting a vibrant and thoroughly unique high-desert vibe, the historical movie set turned biker/burrito bar turned bustling restaurant/fabled live music venue is hip, happening, and standing-room-only most days. And don’t let the place’s ramshackle appearance fool you – the food served on the premises is some of the best you’ll find in the entire greater Palm Springs area. As such, Pappy + Harriet’s has attracted the likes of everyone from Paul McCartney to Helen Mirren to Emma Stone.
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This beloved eatery started serving up savory crepes (or what owner Marcel Ramirez describes as a “French burrito”) in 2020 and quickly became a sensation, with Guy Fieri (who popped in to shoot an episode of his popular “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”) deeming the BBQ chicken crepe a “destination dish.” And Gabino’s truly is a destination! Offering little slices of handheld heaven, Marcel’s crepes consist of incredibly tasty (not to mention hearty) fillings like pesto chicken and rib-eye cheese steak enveloped in a perfectly crunchy wrap crafted from flour, eggs and cheese. A meal at Gabino’s is truly like nothing else in the world! Bonus – there is also a sister location in Palm Springs for those on the west side of town.
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If you’re into franks, Sumo Dog is the place to be! Offering beef, pork, and vegan varieties accompanied by such accouterments as wasabi relish, miso mustard, guacamole, and katsu, the options are imaginative and delicious! My preferred order is an Angus beef frank, bacon wrapped with togarashi cheese sauce, but even the basic Chicago-style dogs make this spot worth a visit.
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