There’s a lakeside eatery in the midst of the Coachella Valley? Yes, indeed! And it’s a beautiful one, at that! Nestled on the grounds of the exclusive The Chateau at Lake La Quinta boutique hotel, the California fresh restaurant and lounge offers gorgeous water views and a truly unique desert experience!
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Craving drinks al fresco? Look no further than Adobe Grill. While the restaurant, which is located on the bucolic grounds of the La Quinta Resort, is also included in my dinner section, its lower patio area is reserved for cocktails and is a stunning place to grab a drink! Tucked under a canopy of palms with ample cozy seating and the desert’s neverending blue skies offering a backdrop like no other, Adobe never disappoints!
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A newer addition to the Coachella Valley hotel scene, Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa was unveiled last year, along with a gorgeous signature exterior bar nestled amongst a picturesque grove of lantern-lit olive trees and a smattering of fire pits. Romantic, inviting and accented with Tommy B.’s landmark island style, this is a spot to truly kick back and watch your worries wash away.
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This spot, which is also included in my lunch section, is so stunningly gorgeous that the quality of drinks almost seems besides the point. Not to worry, though, the Aperol spritzes and bubbly offerings are stellar, and the Instagram opportunities endless, both inside at the brightly tiled bar and outside on the lush firepit-lit patio.
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The Valley truly comes alive at The Nest, a longtime area hot spot that attracts locals of all ages who dance the night away to live music until the wee hours of the morning. A scene like no other, The Nest has to be seen to be believed – if you can get in, that is. Lines are typically stretched around the joint most nights. My advice – reserve a table for dinner (the food is excellent!) and spend your post-meal hours enjoying the spectacle on the dance floor!
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This watering hole is located at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, the last place Frank Sinatra ever performed. Paying homage to that extraordinary milestone, the lobby bar, Aquifer65, hosts a special Sinatra Smash Happy Hour every evening at 4:05 p.m. While Sinatra tunes play in the background, a large flag featuring the Chairman of the Board’s likeness drops from above and guests are provided complimentary samplings of the establishment’s signature Sinatra Smash libation, making for a truly inspired cocktail experience!
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The recently reimagined Palm Springs Surf Club provides an extraordinary setting for spirits via its family-style poolside eatery, Navigator. The only spot in the desert where you can sip some bubbly while watching waves, the establishment also boasts pristine views of the San Jacinto Mountains and surrounding desert landscape. Most stunning at sunset, when the Surf Club is cast in dramatic pink and purple hues, Navigator is a gorgeous spot to imbibe!
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This perfectly pink gem, located inside the equally adorable Trixie Motel, is an Instagram dreamland. Intimate, charming and awash in stunning blush elements and kitschy décor, Barbara Bar is over the top in all the best ways. The drinks and comfort food offerings (animal-shaped chicken nugs, anyone?) are superb, as well. Walk-ins aren’t accepted here, so be sure to make reservations well in advance. A booking also grants guests a glimpse at the delightful hotel grounds and a visit to the gift shop.
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This watering hole is a full-blown vibe! Old Hollywood glam at its finest, Bar Valerie was designed by David Rios of Trixie Motel fame. Tucked inside boutique lodging The Velvet Rope (which also made my hotel list), the intimate space, named for Amy Winehouse’s hit 2007 song, is stylish, hip and picturesque from every single stylized angle!
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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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