Author: lindsay

  • The Real Italian Deli

    The Real Italian Deli

    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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  • The Lunch Spot

    The Lunch Spot

    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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  • Manhattan In The Desert

    Manhattan In The Desert

    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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  • Sherman’s Deli & Bakery

    Sherman’s Deli & Bakery

    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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  • On The Mark

    On The Mark

    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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  • La Quinta Baking Company

    La Quinta Baking Company

    Like a little slice of Europe right in the heart of the desert, the baked goods served here (all of which are homemade on the premises, along with pretty much everything else on the menu) are bar none! The rest of the fare is as exceptional – especially the omelets, which come complete with melted cheese on top. While La Quinta Baking Company offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, it has become a favorite breakfast spot for my family, with countless mornings spent together on the quaint patio enjoying creamy lattes and buttery croissants.

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  • Beautiful Day

    Beautiful Day

    A newer desert addition, this farm-to-table joint utilizes ingredients sourced from local Coachella Valley farms, with a highly inventive and enticing menu – all prepared via a scratch kitchen. I personally love the Farm Fresh Scramble, but I’ve heard the Huckleberry Hotcakes are a must-try. The restaurant is also extremely accommodating when it comes to customizing dishes due to various dietary restrictions and patrons are always sent off with a “Have a beautiful day” farewell, only adding to the establishment’s charm.

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  • Salvation Mountain

    Salvation Mountain

    Next stop, Salvation Mountain! A monument to God’s love created in the ‘80s by visionary Leonard Knight out of adobe, straw, local junkyard trash and gallons upon gallons of paint, the vibrant bluff stands like a beacon on a wide expanse of dusty desert land. Leonard sadly passed away in 2014 after almost 30 years of maintaining the installation, but it remains intact today thanks to his legions of devotees who have painstakingly preserved it. Thousands of visitors make the pilgrimage there each year to meditate, reflect and view the true wonder of it all. (If you need a restroom, the last one out this way can be found just a few miles before hitting Salvation Mountain at the Soco Mini-Mart at 8004 CA-111 in Niland).

  • Grapefruit Basil

    Grapefruit Basil

    If you prefer your breakfast with a view, Grapefruit Basil, tucked amongst the stunning olive trees at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort, is the place for you! Easily one of the desert’s prettiest spots, the food is excellent to boot. (The All-American Classic and Miso Avocado Toast are my favorite dishes.) This place is also fabulous for dinner, not to mention happy hour, with the twinkling lanterns and canopy of branches providing a sylvan ambiance you won’t find anywhere else.

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  • The Blushing Peony Wine Bar & Cafe

    The Blushing Peony Wine Bar & Cafe

    Accented in soft blushes, this minimalist cafe and wine bar is as adorable as it is tasty! Recently opened in mid 2024, it has already become my go-to local breakfast/brunch spot. Featuring such varied offerings as Truffle Deviled Eggs, Balsamic Burrata Mushroom Toast and Lemon Curd Waffles, the Simple Breakfast of poached eggs, olive oil toast, spinach, potatoes and bacon (the latter of which is cooked to perfection), is my favorite. The lattes here are also a creamy delight!

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