They say not to judge a book by its cover, and that is certainly true with this spot, which, from the outside, appears a little rough around the edges. In truth, though, it offers upscale American options in an absolutely elegant setting. Dimly lit, intimate, and reminiscent of the finest restaurants of yesteryear, more than a few luminaries have passed through its doors, including Gena Rowlands, who is a longtime regular, as well as Bob Hope, Andy Williams and Ginger Rogers.
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The La Quinta Resort is a bonafide screen star, its Mediterranean architecture providing a stunning backdrop for such varied productions as “Hart to Hart,” “The Hills: New Beginnings,” “Don’t Worry Darling,” “Vanderpump Rules” and “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” “The Bachelor” franchise is especially fond of the property, utilizing it copious times across numerous seasons. Most recently, the resort’s La Casa venue hosted the televised, much-hoopla-ed, and very short-lived wedding of Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner and his pick, Theresa Nist.
While the food here is undeniably excellent (I find myself craving the Enchiladas Verdes at least once a week!), the striking ambiance is what makes this place a must-dine spot. Situated atop the main plaza at the La Quinta Resort, Adobe Grill’s sprawling elevated multi-level patio overlooks a meandering fountain, vibrant red rooftops, towering palms, and the gorgeous peaks of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Strung with twinkle lights and boasting a plethora of seating areas, it is one of the prettiest places in the desert to enjoy a meal al fresco.
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If it’s tea you’re seeking, Cali Rosina should be your first stop! The adorable tea shop boasts a massive and well-curated selection of fresh loose-leaf blends (over 200, in fact!), served both iced and hot, and the finest selection of chocolate I’ve seen in the desert! I’m not much of a tea person, but even I can’t resist Cali Rosina’s refreshing offerings. Opened by siblings Jodie and Josh Smith just a few days before the world shut down in March 2020, it speaks to the café’s excellence that it managed to survive and thrive, quickly becoming a local favorite. The place also features one of the cutest patios around.
While the lattes and baked goods at this spot are solid, at Main Street Coffee, it is all about the location! Tucked inside the city of La Quinta’s charming Old Town shopping center, the café boasts a covered wraparound patio with gorgeous desert vistas and fabulous people-watching opportunities, especially on Sundays during the center’s bustling weekly farmer’s markets.
Stop by this Old Town La Quinta coffee and dessert shop early, as the baked goods sell out by 10 daily. One bite of a delectable huckleberry scone topped with citrus glaze, melt-in-your-mouth buttermilk biscuit or buttery croissant, and you’ll know why! Homemade on the premises each morning by owner Gina Mallano, every item at Yes Please is crafted with the finest ingredients and plenty of heart! The coffee drinks are superb, as well, with the chai and horchata also made in-house, and the patio views are nothing short of stunning!
Hotel coffee shops aren’t typically known for serving up stellar brews, but The Marketplace at the La Quinta Resort is the exception to that rule. The java is on par with high-end roasters and the breakfast sandwiches are truly a marvel! And you can’t beat the setting, with the gorgeous shaded patio pristinely situated overlooking the stunning hotel grounds. It’s a great place to spend a lazy morning or a sunny afternoon!
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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This bustling certified farmers market is held on Sundays from October through May, with local vendors hawking all manner of goods, including organic fruits and vegetables, juices, artisanal bread and fresh fish, plus jewelry, artwork and more! Numerous food trucks and kiosks are also on hand, such as the insanely popular Chaupain Bakery and, my personal favorite, The Tamale Fiesta. Old Town’s once-a-month Art on Main Street events, which run from November through March, are also not to be missed.
