This year seems to be flying by at lightning speed. The last month, in particular, brought a flurry of activity—along with a slew of fun new finds. Not only did I try bibimbap for the first time, but I also graduated from a local civic academy and learned the art of ikebana. Safe to say, it’s been a whirlwind! Read on for more about those adventures, plus two other things I’m currently loving in the Valley.
XO, Lindsay
My husband is a huge fan of rice bowls, so when I heard about a new build-your-own bibimbap spot in La Quinta, the two of us rushed right over. And it did not disappoint! With a nice selection of base options (rice, noodles, or greens), proteins (chicken, pork, beef, or tofu), veggie toppings, and your pick of sauces, the meals are fully customizable—which this picky eater wholeheartedly appreciated—and absolutely delicious. My choice? A rice and tofu bowl topped with edamame, zucchini, shiitake mushrooms, and broccoli. No notes. I would happily eat there again—and again.
I just graduated from the Palm Desert Civic Academy after signing up on the recommendation of a Leadership Coachella Valleyboard member—and I genuinely loved every minute! Taking place over five consecutive Monday evenings, the sessions dive into everything from budget planning to beautification to public works, offering a concise and engaging introduction to how city government operates. Open to everyone (you do not need to be a Palm Desert resident), the free course feels like a mini LCV experience and is honestly one of the best things I’ve done this year. Bonus: Each session includes a free dinner from a stellar local eatery.
As a self-described coffee fiend, I am always up for visiting new local coffee shops and have been eagerly awaiting the opening of this specialty roaster (founded by two CV natives!) ever since first seeing it announced on Instagram late last year. The verdict? Definitely worth the wait. Bright, open, and airy, Desert Kid Coffee has a chic industrial feel, with cement flooring, sleek wood accents, and a garage door that opens to the sprawling front patio. I grabbed an iced latte and knocked out a couple of emails from one of the tables, fully enjoying the relaxed, design-forward vibe. And the latte itself? Utter perfection.
BOTANICAL VERBIAGE FLORAL WORKSHOPS
My friend and Leadership Coachella Valley president Nicole Trigg—the artist behind Botanical Verbiage—is hosting a series of floral design workshops over the next couple of months at the Coachella Valley History Museum. My bestie Heidi and I signed up for the ikebana session, the first in the series, and not only learned the intricacies of the Japanese art of intentional floral arranging, but also walked away with truly gorgeous creations (mine is pictured). Nicole breaks down the entire process with ease, crafting an evening of art, beauty, and inspiration.
I am a sucker for cute totes and graphic tees (especially of the desert-themed variety), not to mention a total child of the ’80s—so when I saw Raised in the Sun’s new Coachella Valley Girlmerch, I was instantly obsessed. Created by Cathedral City native Denise Rodriguez Bowman—whom I met at a recent Rise 2 Shine Collective gathering, where I was lucky enough to winthe pictured tote—the line is playful, pastel-coded, and absolutely adorable. Currently available at Hot Lips Coffee Shop, I’m already eyeing the pink version—it’s basically my entire personality in bag form.