By APEK Rentals

Best Places to Eat in Palm Springs: A Locals Guide

Looking for the best places to eat in Palm Springs? You’re in the right place!

APEK Rentals knows this desert city like the back of our hand. We’ve helped over 15,000 guests discover amazing food spots during their stays at our luxury vacation rentals.

Palm Springs offers everything from farm-to-table breakfast spots to fine dining with mountain views. Whether you want a quick bite between pool sessions at your rental or a special dinner out, this guide shows you where locals and visitors love to eat.

Guide Overview

Top Restaurants for Every Meal

1. Cheeky’s

Cheeky’s is one of the most popular breakfast and brunch spots in Palm Springs. Everything on the menu is made from scratch using farm-to-table ingredients. This place doesn’t take reservations, so it’s first come, first serve.

Rating: 4.2/5 (1,968 reviews)
Price Level: Moderate
Location: 622 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Our Review: You have to try their famous bacon flight – six different flavors of bacon to sample, including sweet, spicy, and smoky options. It’s a fun way to start your meal!

The patio is pet friendly, making it perfect for guests with furry friends, so you can enjoy your brunch while your dog relaxes at your feet.

Learn more about Cheeky’s

Famous beacon plate in Cheeky's

2. Workshop Kitchen & Bar

For dinner, Workshop Kitchen & Bar offers inventive New American cuisine with seasonal craft cocktails in a stylish setting.

Rating: 4.3/5 (1,312 reviews)
Price Level: Expensive
Location: 800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Our Review: Be sure to make reservations early to get a good spot. The outdoor patio is beautiful during cooler months, where you can enjoy the nice weather and pretty views.

Their cocktails are some of the finest around, made by talented bartenders who love what they do! Try their unique drinks for a special treat. Whether you prefer something fruity or classic, there’s a cocktail for everyone’s taste!

Learn more about Workshop Kitchen & Bar

Friends drinking a cocktail at Workshop Kitchen & Bar

3. Boozehounds

Boozehounds is the most dog-friendly restaurant in Palm Springs. They have a special menu just for dogs and separate outdoor areas for dining with pets. Your dog can order their own meal like the “weenie-tini” – chicken broth with chicken-flavored whipped cream. The outdoor patio and atrium welcome pets.

Rating: 4.4/5 (1,293 reviews)
Price Level: Moderate
Location: 2080 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Thu 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Fri-Sat 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sun 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Learn more about Boozehounds

4. Farm

Farm offers a French-inspired farm-to-table experience in a beautiful courtyard setting that feels like the South of France.

Rating: 4.7/5 (3,522 reviews)
Price Level: Moderate
Location: 6 La Plaza, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (walk-in only), Dinner Fri-Tue 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM (reservations only)

Our Review: Breakfast and lunch are walk-in only, which means you can just stop by whenever you want to enjoy a meal. But for dinner, you’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time.

The garden-like patio seating is a magical place where you can enjoy fresh air and feel like you’ve stepped into another world, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers.

Learn more about Farm

Family having breakfast at Farm

5. The Colony Club

Formerly Purple Palm, The Colony Club is a hidden gem with gorgeous views at one of the most charming boutique hotels in the area.

Rating: 4.3/5 (424 reviews)
Price Level: Expensive
Location: 572 N Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Our Review: You can dine in the elegant indoor dining room or poolside in the shade under the warm Palm Springs sun. The poolside area is perfect for a relaxing meal while enjoying the nice breeze. The setting is great for both couples and families, with older kids and teens.

Make reservations ahead of time for the best experience, especially during busy times, to ensure you get the best seat. This way, you can relax and enjoy your meal without any worry!

Learn more about The Colony Club

People having lunch at The Colony Club

6. Mr. Lyons Steakhouse

Think sexy steakhouse in the desert. Mr. Lyons offers premium meats and fresh seafood with a great speakeasy inside. The food is amazing, and they have handcrafted cocktails. Don’t miss the speakeasy for a drink before or after dinner.

Rating: 4.2/5 (935 reviews)
Price Level: Expensive
Location: 233 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Opening Hours: Daily 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Learn more about Mr. Lyons Steakhouse

7. Billy Reed’s Palm Springs

This nostalgic haven has been serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1975. It’s a true time capsule with excellent service.

Rating: 4.6/5 (4,626 reviews)
Price Level: Moderate
Location: 1800 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Our Review: The portions are generous, making it easy to share, and prices are very affordable. It’s the kind of old-school place where good food knows no time limits. You can come anytime you are hungry, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they will happily serve you delicious meals.

The menu offers a wide variety of tasty dishes that will satisfy anyone’s cravings. Plus, the cozy atmosphere adds to the charm, making every meal feel special.

Learn more about Billy Reed’s

Dinner at Billy Reed's Palm Springs

8. Great Shakes

You must try a date shake while in Palm Springs! Great Shakes is the spot locals recommend for the best shakes in town. Dates are locally grown, and the shakes are made fresh.

Rating: 4.7/5 (1,047 reviews)
Price Level: Inexpensive
Location: 160 S Palm Canyon Dr A, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Sat until 10:00 PM)

Our Review: If you’re in Palm Springs, you should try a date shake, and Great Shakes is the place we recommend. It’s a local favorite right on Palm Canyon, and everything tastes fresh.

The date shake is thick, creamy, and naturally sweet from locally grown dates, with a caramel-like flavor that is not overly sugary. It’s an easy, inexpensive stop after walking around downtown, and they’re open into the evening.

Learn more about Great Shakes

Choose Your Restaurant

Not sure where to eat in Palm Springs? Use this quick mind map to choose a restaurant based on what you’re in the mood for, from a brunch worth the wait and a retro hotel diner to a creative dinner, a special-occasion steakhouse, dog-friendly patios, and an inexpensive sweet treat.

Choose Your Restaurant

Tips and Tricks from Your APEK Rentals Hosts

As your local Palm Springs experts, we want to share some insider tips to make your dining experiences even better:

Make Reservations Early: Many popular spots get busy, especially during peak season and weekends. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Try the Outdoor Seating: Palm Springs weather is perfect for patio dining most of the year. Many restaurants have beautiful outdoor spaces with mountain views.

Ask About Happy Hour: Many places offer great happy hour deals with craft cocktails and small plates at lower prices.

Consider Pet-Friendly Options: If you’re staying at one of our pet-friendly vacation rentals, many restaurants welcome dogs on their patios.

Plan for Walking: Downtown Palm Springs is very walkable, so you can easily restaurant hop or grab drinks at multiple spots in one evening.

Final Thoughts

The best places to eat in Palm Springs offer something special for everyone. From farm-to-table breakfast spots and dog-friendly patios to fine dining with mountain views, this desert city knows how to satisfy your taste buds.

Ready to taste the best of Palm Springs? Book your stay with us and start planning your culinary adventure in this amazing desert destination.

Bohemian Luxury Retreat in Desert Hot Springs

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do Palm Springs locals eat?
Locals love spots like Farm, Cheeky’s, and The Colony Club for their authentic flavors and relaxed atmosphere. From our experience hosting guests at APEK Rentals, these places consistently deliver great food and represent the true spirit of Palm Springs dining.

What type of food is Palm Springs known for?
Palm Springs is famous for its farm-to-table restaurants, date shakes made with locally grown dates, and outdoor patio dining. The city also has amazing Mexican food, mid-century modern themed restaurants, and fine dining with mountain views.

Where do celebs eat in Palm Springs?
Celebrities often dine at upscale spots like The Colony Club. These places offer both excellent food and the privacy that famous guests appreciate.

Are there good vegetarian and vegan dining options in Palm Springs?
Yes! Many restaurants offer excellent vegetarian and vegan options.

What restaurants are good for families with kids?
Family-friendly options include Billy Reed’s and Great Shakes for treats. Many places have outdoor patios where kids can move around, and several offer children’s menus with familiar favorites.

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