Checking out the cuisine in Palm Springs

Dining out in Palm Springs is an adventure set in the Sonoran Desert. Because of the heat, even the most formal restaurant establishments have a casual dress code. If temperatures aren't raging at the time, then many diners prefer to eat outdoors on the patios offered by most places in southern California.

Many colder regions in the world, such as Chicago, have faced challenges in the restaurant industry with frigid weather and the COVID epidemic. Palm Springs has remained fairly unscathed because of the numerous open-air venues where people could be spread out and socially distant.

Mindy Reed's Zin American Bistro is an excellent way to begin a culinary tour with reasonable prices and a friendly atmosphere. Start off with a refreshing glass of pinot grigio from the Wine Spectator Award winner at 198 South Palm Canyon Drive. Pair it with a cheese board and fried blue cheese olives. Take a bite of the south with the buttermilk fried chicken that is paired with mashed potatoes and creamy spinach. The Belgian chocolate mousse topped with raspberry puree is a rich and thick way to finish off the day.

For a lunch hot spot head to Bongo Johnny's Patio Bar & Grill Palm Springs. Enjoy the bird's eye view of the Cornerstone Center while devouring a variety of salads. The Mexican Caesar salad will hit the spot with a grilled chicken breast, queso fresco and housemade tortilla chips. Add some guacamole to the dish for extra flavor!

Another tasty lunch stop can be found at Chicken Ranch Palm Springs, 515 North Palm Canyon Drive. The service is stellar and maintains the fast pace of hungry shoppers in this bustling area. The chicken sandwich ain't cheap, but completely worth it thanks to delicious crunchy chicken topped with spicy sriracha aioli sauce.

For fancier fare try 1501 Gastro Pub with celebrated chefs and striking architecture designed by Chris Pardo. The braised Kobe short rib is a must-try item or for something off the beaten path sample the sour cherry balsamic braised pork shoulder. Wash it all down with cocktails or mocktails depending on preference. The mixologists in the bar are experts on adding just the right ingredients to have your taste buds popping.

Palm Springs has something for everyone that craves a unique culinary experience. The laid-back and relaxed vibe curated inside many of the restaurants in this desert region sets the perfect tone to sit back and enjoy someone else doing all the cooking for a change.

Click on VisitGreaterPalmSprings.com for more information on the surrounding food scene!