Mr Call’s Best of Palm Springs
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Whenever I travel, I always dream of a simple list from a trusted source to help guide me around a new town. I wanted a list that was curated (just a few “must see” items per category), that I could access easily on my cell phone.
I could never find such a list, so I decided to create my own. It is by no means comprehensive, however, I do share the BEST in each section for you to be sure to check out. My focus is on local, healthy, one of a kind experiences.
Categories are on the left. The “+” sign on the right will expand the category to reveal my suggestions. If you click on the name of the business, it will lead you to their website.
I hope this list helps you get around Palm Springs a little easier. If you have any suggestion to add or just want to get in touch, feel free to email me via the button above.
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My dream hotel is luxurious, quite, and a bit sexy. I like to be transported when I am on a property so that I can fully relax and enjoy my time off. The following hotels excel at all of those qualities and then some. I recommend the highly.
First Place: THE COLONY PALMS
Hands down the best hotel currently in Palm Springs. This is where you want to stay. The bungalows and the rooms above the front desk in the main building are some of my favorite. Beware of the restaurant. Serviceable for drinks and snacks. But, would steer clear of it other than that.
Second Place: SPARROWS LODGE
A central barn surrounded by clustering of cottages, this property was designed by the famous Mark D. Sykes. Intimate, luxurious and discreet. This is for people that are looking to unplug when they arrive in Palm Springs. (There are no TV’s in the guest suites).
Third Place: LA SERENA
A collection of romantic Spanish colonial villas in shades of white and aqua. Amazing downtown location. Very nice restaurant and staff. No car needed if you decide to stay here. The location is amazing.
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OPENING SOON: A slew of new design oriented hotels are opening soon that are worth mentioning.
AZURE SKY- A 14 room hotel will begin taking reservations May 1st. This is the first hotel in the Palm Springs area from design/developer group ACME HOSPITALITY (known for Santa Barbara’s Helena Avenue Bakery and Laquita). Prices start at about $350 per night.
HERMANN BUNGALOWS - a new property from real estate developer Steve Hermann is inspired by desert modernism and an organic palette. Prices start at about $1,000 per night.
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I take Bruch seriously. I like soft eggs, crisp toast and scalding hot coffee - preferably outdoors if possible. The quality of the food is paramount, and then the environment. Enjoy your morning in Palm Springs but checking out the following recommendations:
First Place: FRENCH MISO
Tucked in a hidden courtyard, I am not sure I have ever had eggs Benedict better than this. Party’s under four are the best for this tiny place. This has a quiet atmosphere - best reserved for reflective or low-key moments. Reservations recommended.
Second Place: FARM
A sprawling gated garden is the location for this French bistro’s culinary feats. Classic breakfast fare and great cocktails. The perfect place for two, or even groups of ten. Reservations recommend.
Third Place: JAKE’S
A garden courtyard with upscale food offerings, this restaurant has become a Palm Springs classic over the years. The dessert case is out of control and not for the faint of heart.
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A newer entrant into the coffee scene here in Palm Springs, this well designed space is a part of a larger co-working venue that recently opened up. That means gracious tables and spaces to work inside and out, a cheerful staff, and truly delicious coffee. Another tip about this place: They offer some of the best healthful grab and go meals in the city. Be sure to check it out.
Second Place: EARNEST COFFEE
They serve blue bottle coffee and have a great small town coffee shop vibe. It’s a good place to set up shop with your laptop at one of their tables. Check hours before you go. They change a lot.
Third Place: KOFFI
The downtown outpost is my favorite. The garden in the back is where a lot of locals hang out and socialize. The coffee isn’t THE BEST, but the scene is fun to see.
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Cocktails are an art form here in Palm Springs, and a decent martini can be had almost anywhere. Despite being a tough category, I do have my favorites. The following are places that have an upscale environment, an attentive staff, and that I would feel comfortable taking a work associate to or a date. Be sure to check them out when you are in town.
First Place: DEL REY AT VILLA ROYALE
A speakeasy hidden on the new del Rey hotel in the Warm Sands neighborhood, this jewel recently entered the dining scene here in Palm Springs. This bar epitomizes a cozy club like atmosphere with an updated hip vibe. The bar creates incredible craft cocktails and the environment has this sneaky way of persuading you to stay for “just one more”. They also have a great tapas menu to nibble on.
Second Place: SEYMORE’S
The hidden speakeasy located within Mr Lyon’s. It has a dimly lit, Soho house type of vibe inside with an incredible outdoor area that includes Bocce ball. The bartenders take their craft here seriously. Be sure to call ahead and ask for hours.
Third Place : TAILORSHOP
Palm Springs newest and place to go for cocktails. I love the interior here, and be sure to ask for ‘Kelsey”. She is the best. Reservations recommended.
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Dinner theater is alive and well in Palm Springs and an absolute must see if you’re in town. Reservations mandatory.
First Place: ASIA SF
The legendary San Francisco outpost of this institution. Just opened up. Shows are to die for and food is great. Bring a large group if you can ! Seriously, cannot recommend enough.
Second Place: THE PURPLE ROOM
Frank Sinatra’s favorite dinner theater in the area is alive and well. Shows with some the Jazz greats, and the hilariously funny “Judy Show”. Get the spaghetti and meatballs - just saying. So good.
Third Place: OSCAR”S
The downtown open air institution serves up a decent dinner and some great shows. Celebrities and local talent alike have graced these stages for decades. Check the website to check listings and buy tickets.
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Sometimes I just want a place for dinner that is casual, serves decent food and doesn’t require a reservation. These restaurants check all of those boxes.
First Place: TAQ+QUILLA
Neuvo Mexica food with a focus on shared plates. The blood orange margarita can’t be missed.
Second Place: ROOSTER + PIG
Best Vietnamese food in town with a buzzing clientele. Behind the low key facade of this strip mall restaurant lies a hidden gem of a sexy restaurant. This is off the beaten track and where the locals hang.
Third Place: BOOZEHOUNDS
The dog friendly restaurant and bar boasts a dedicated dog menu. Upscale design, great food and drinks, and a special VIP dog entrance allows everyone to feel like they are on the red carpet in this special eatery.
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First Place: BAR CECIL
The best restaurant in town. This is a MUST go. The only problem is you need to book 30 days ahead. So be sure to make reservations. Reservations go live every night on Open Table at 12am. Order the green salad (I swear) and the Cacio e Pepe.
Second Place: WORKSHOP KITCHEN +BAR
James Beard winner for Interior Design, this restaurant epitomizes the farm to table trend and delivers with spectacular results. Dishes can be a bit heavy, so be aware. Some of my favorites are: the Duck Fried Rice, the Steak Frites, the Fruit & Cheese (it sounds simple…its spectacular), the and the Beet and Goat cheese salad.I prefer the indoor seating to the outdoor. (Bar seating is great too!)
Third Place: SANDFISH SUSHI + WHISKEY
Within its Scandinavian designed interior, you’ll enjoy a judicious selection of hand-crafted sushi and whiskey pairings, making Sandfish an ideal destination for both epicures and the curious.
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These are the food and beverage institutions of Palm Springs. Here for generations, they rarely change from season to season. The food leans on the heavy side with steaks, fish and butter sauces often being featured. But, there is something magical about these places - they feel so right in Palm Springs - that they are totally worth a visit.
First Place: COPLEY’S: The historic guest residence of Cary Grant is today one of Palm Springs most lovely garden restaurants. Most seating is outdoors, surrounded by old palms and fountains. Meals reflect traditional Continental cuisine.
Second Place: SPENCERS: Located in the historic Tennis Club neighborhood, the clubhouse vibe here is not by mistake. The menu and the environment feel comfortably 1980’s style, yet there is something magical about this place that keeps myself and everyone else coming back for more. Indulge in the valet parking.
Third Place: MELVYN’S : Frank Sinatra’s favorite restaurant in town, and the place where Elizabeth Taylor always kept a hotel room, Melvyn’s is steeped in Hollywood history. In lieu of eating here, instead indulge in their martinis and mixed drinks at the bar. This is where they shine. Recently purchased solely by Kelly Wearstler, enjoy it while it is here. Seemingly new things are on the way.
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First Place: GROUNDED BODYWORKS
A local business with a holistic attitude, there is a focus on organic products and whole body/mind care. This is where I go for massages, facials, and luxury nail services.
Second Place: GENTLEMANS BARBERSHOP
A classic neighborhood barbershop. This is where I go. Jardiel is my guy. Awesome. Tell him I sent you .
Third Place: NAIL PRO
Where most locals in town go for a down and dirty mani/pedi. There is no website. In the shopping center by Ralphs. Address: 425 S Sunrise Way # H4, Palm Springs, CA 92262Item description
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First Place: MOJAVE FLEA
An entire emporium focused on natural living and small artisans. Both local and national brands represented. Incredible flower shop, coffee shop, housewares, clothing and apothecary. A must see!
Second Place: THE SHOPS AT 1345
A collective of creative business focused on the home. Fashion, furnishings, home decor and landscape. Think mid century furnishings, the smell of Palo Santo candles, over-scale vintage sunglasses, and Moroccan rugs and you will get the vibe. Be sure to take a picture in front of their famous #PinkWallPs.
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To truly understand Palm Springs you need to experience it’s natural beauty. Here are a few hikes that I highly recommend.
First Place: The Andreas Canyon Trail at Indian Canyons. A simple one mile trail that parallels a natural spring and is covered by local Palms. Perhaps one of the most beautiful hikes in the world. Takes less than an hour and is safe for all ages and abilities. (It’s almost flat the entire route).
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I say Joshua Tree “ish” because, while the actual park itself is amazing for hikes, the best food and entertainment is located in the nearby towns. Here are my recommendations:
Legendary music and bbq venue. Perfect for dinner. Featured in the movie “Ingrid Goes West”. Be ready for a wait. No reservations accepted. Call ahead to check out music schedule.
LOVE this place. On an abandoned movie set in the middle of nowhere. Inside its a classic “Saloon” with a Dj in the evenings and great mix of locals. Super gay friendly, but mixed crowd. They have a great breakfast. Afternoon and evenings are all about their tacos and beer/tequila drinks.
Two ladies fell in love with the desert, moved out here and built their dream restaurant/business. The perfect place for a healthy lunch.
You need to experience this sound bath in the desert.
