01
Standout New American
Workshop Kitchen + Bar
Uptown Design District • Design-Forward New American Restaurant In A Dramatic Concrete Space • Best Overall Pick
Serious cooking and craft cocktails in one of Palm Springs’ most striking dining rooms.
Housed in a converted 1920s movie theater, Workshop pairs its Brutalist-chic setting with a seasonal menu that leans hard into local produce. Expect wood-fired vegetables, thoughtful shareable plates, and a cocktail list built for lingering. It’s the place to book when you want a meal that feels like an occasion without tipping into stuffy.
02
Cult-favorite small plates
Rooster and the Pig
Downtown Palm Springs • Vietnamese-American Small Plates Spot With A Relaxed Buzz • Best For Adventurous Eaters
A tight, ever-changing menu of Vietnamese-influenced plates that rewards ordering widely and sharing.
Rooster and the Pig runs on a handwritten menu that changes with what’s fresh and what the kitchen feels like cooking. Dishes often riff on Vietnamese flavors—think bright herbs, punchy sauces, and clever textures—without feeling locked to tradition. Go with a small group, order more than you think you need, and trust the staff’s recommendations.
03
Iconic brunch favorite
Cheeky’s
North Palm Canyon • Lively Daytime Brunch Cafe With A Sunny Patio • Go-To Brunch Spot
Beloved for creative breakfast plates, rotating bacon flights, and a patio made for long, lazy mornings.
Cheeky’s is the brunch line you’ll actually be glad you waited in, thanks to a menu that changes weekly but keeps the hits—like the bacon sampler and churro-style waffles—close at hand. The crowd is a mix of locals, weekenders, and families all sharing tables under the palms. Arrive early, put your name in, and plan on a relaxed start to the day.
04
Charming garden dining
FARM
La Plaza Courtyard • French-Influenced Garden Restaurant With All-Day Charm • Best For Romantic Dinners
A tucked-away courtyard spot where Provençal-style dishes meet twinkle-lit desert evenings.
Hidden just off the main drag, FARM feels like stumbling into a small village square, complete with shaded trees and bistro chairs. Daytime brings crepes, omelets, and strong coffee; at night, the mood shifts to intimate, with candlelit tables and French-leaning plates. It’s an easy choice for couples or anyone who wants a quieter meal that still feels special.
05
Stylish patio hangout
Birba
Uptown Palm Springs • Open-Air Italian And Pizza Bar With A Lively Scene • Best For Drinks And Sharing Plates
Crisp pizzas, Italian-leaning small plates, and a busy bar anchored by one of the city’s best patios.
Birba leans into the desert evenings with string lights, fire pits, and a patio that fills quickly once the sun dips. The menu centers on thin-crust pizzas, house-made pastas, and snacky bites that pair well with a Negroni or a spritz. It’s an ideal meet-up spot before a night out, or a casual place to linger over a long, shared meal.