There are plenty of things to do in Palm Springs, California, from exploring the natural beauty of the Coachella Valley Preserve, taking in views from the aerial tramway or antiquing for vintage treasures. Thankfully, there are just as many ways adventurous foodies and hungry travelers can satiate their appetites. Fill your Southern California vacation with unforgettable dinners, desserts and more. Here are 12 of the best restaurants in Palm Springs, from breakfast spots to Mexican eateries, according to reviews on TripAdvisor.

Best Breakfast

Elmer’s Restaurant has you covered whether you prefer a hearty brunch or breakfast for dinner. Enjoy omelets, buttermilk and German pancakes, eggs Benedict and other tasty breakfast foods all day in a cozy diner. Start your day with the most important meal of the day at this no-frills, family-style restaurant. 

 

Best Asian Food

Rooster and the Pig offers flavorful Vietnamese and Asian-fusion food with plenty of vegetarian options. Order a mix of large and small plates to share for a meal that treats your taste buds. The restaurant is dine-in only but worth the visit. You may need to wait or head over for an early dinner to ensure you’ll score a table. Or relax at the bar and enjoy a cocktail until a table opens up.

Best Dinner and Show

Step back in time at The Purple Room for 60s-style live entertainment with your meal. While you will need a ticket for Friday and Saturday night’s headliners, enjoy jazz entertainment every day of the week with your dinner. If you prefer happy hour prices, stop by on Tuesday so you can swing and sip the night away.

Best Vegan Options

Find plenty of plant-based options at Native Foods, an entirely vegan restaurant. With seasonal selections and burgers packed with tasty toppings, even meat eaters enjoy the flavorful comfort food. Plus, few tourists frequent this local hidden gem.

 

Best Dessert

Treat yourself to gourmet shakes, malts and floats from Great Shakes. The family-owned and -operated shop prides itself on its premium ice cream base and locally sourced ingredients. Try a date shake, a California specialty, thanks to the area’s booming date industry. Plus, Great Shakes offers vegan and lactose-free alternatives.

Best Coffee

Visit one of Koffis four locations across Palm Springs for quick, quality coffee. The morning rush can be busy, but the espresso and pastries are worth the wait. Plus, you can sip your coffee and enjoy views of the San Jacinto Mountains for a relaxed start to your day.

Best Grab-and-Go

If you need a meal while on the go, stop by The Sandwich Spot. Enjoy handcrafted sandwiches packed with toppings on the road, or pack them for a picnic at Indian Canyons. Try your sub with Dutch crunch bread and bomb sauce — made with buttermilk dressing, jalapenos and Frank’s RedHot® sauce — for a truly unforgettable lunch.

Best Bar

Retro Room Lounge is a karaoke bar at the heart of Palm Springs’ nightlife. If you spend the evening at the Palm Springs Art Museum, head down the street for Retro Room to enjoy high-energy karaoke performances and daily happy hour specials. The bar is said to be haunted by the previous owner, but don’t let the fear of spirits or stage fright keep you from enjoying the singers.

 

Best Mexican

La Perlita is a family-owned restaurant with authentic Mexican cuisine and cozy home-style cooking. Try their chile rellenos and handcrafted margaritas, both locals’ favorites. This colorful eatery is also open for breakfast, so start the day with huevos rancheros or chilaquiles.

Best Pizza

Stop by for a slice of Bill’s Pizza, or purchase a whole pie if you’re feeding a larger crew. Pick your toppings or choose from one of 25 specialty pizzas, such as Bill’s Favorite, loaded with pesto, red sauce, pepperoni, salami, tomatoes and cheese. Enjoy sourdough or gluten-free crust, made daily and baked in brick ovens. Visit on Monday for happy hour and sip on cheap drinks alongside freshly cooked slices.

Best Hidden Gem

First opened in 1994, Miro’s is a Palm Springs’ establishment and local favorite. Miro’s offers outstanding Central and Eastern European cuisine, from Budapest schnitzel to Slavic burek pastries. Share a bottle of wine with your significant other on the patio for a romantic evening, or bring the crew together to enjoy the elevated takes on home-style food.

 

Best Bakery

Venture to the south end of Downtown Palm Springs to Townie Bagels, Bakery and Cafe. Townie’s menu is full of bagel flavors, from classics like everything and cinnamon raisin to more creative options like French toast. East Coasters rave about Townie’s New York-style bagels, which are boiled before they’re baked, creating soft, fluffy bagels. Start your day with a bagel sandwich, coffee and pastries to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Rest up at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Palm Desert, conveniently located near Palm Springs’ best restaurants and top attractions.

Read “Hit the Road for 5 Fun-filled Days in Southern California” to start planning a jam-packed road trip through Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Carlsbad and San Diego.