Chef and owner Engin Onural opened Sandfish in 2018. The design is flawless with a meticulous level of detail. Study the tiles above the bar, lighting, framed pics, light woods, and shipping container patio before ordering an equally beautiful cocktail. Make a reservation well in advance because seats fill up fast for Sandfish’s spicy tuna tostada, gyoza, karaage fried cauliflower bao buns, and sushi and sashimi. The curated whiskey list is worth checking out.

Old-school restaurant JJ’s Mexican Oasis was converted by Brad and Crystal Reihl into the Heyday. The new owners restored the red leather booths and kept some of the lighting — it still feels like dining in a classic 1970s eatery. On the menu are trendy smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, wings, fries, and a hefty gem salad with lemon, toasted panko breadcrumbs, and a light ranch dressing. The bar serves classic cocktails.

Chef Omar Limon’s restaurant seamlessly transitioned from a pop-up to an essential modern Mexican spot in 2022. The inventive menu varies with the seasons and can include birria ramen, aguachile with shrimp and salsa negra, or beet al pastor tostadas with handmade tortillas. Hoja Blanca is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays for walk-ins only.

Cheeky’s short-order cooks should receive a medal for their ability to produce four brunch plates for a table at the same time. The brunch menu’s chilaquiles, waffles, gluten-free pancakes, and birria hash with poached eggs are wonderful, filling, and best consumed with daytime cocktails. Always order the bacon flight prepared with applewood, dill pickle, truffle, and jalapeno flavors.

Not a drop of white or beige can be found inside the Tropicale’s boldly designed supper club. Whether dropping in for happy hour, dinner, or brunch, find strong cocktails and memorable food. The jalapeno waffle with fried chicken and the Thai lime and chile steak salad are great daytime options, while the organic brisket burger with melted brie works for dinner.

Every Palm Springs trip requires a stop to pick up sandwiches, snacks, desserts, or anything else needed while staying in a hotel or rental property. On The Mark prepares stunning charcuterie boards and outstanding sandwiches, like the ancho chicken with chile crunch, provolone, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Sherman’s Deli & Bakery is a classic kosher deli serving Palm Springs since the 1950s. The restaurant specializes in classics like chopped liver, egg salad, blintzes, and latkes, all served in a sun-filled room. The latke sandwich with corned beef or pastrami is notable. Grab a few cookies or a slice of cheesecake to-go on the way out.

The flavors of Vietnam are on full display at Rooster And The Pig. The menu is best characterized as Vietnamese Californian with shrimp and pork spring rolls, spicy chile okra, shaking beef, and a flavorful caramelized butternut squash with pepitas, pineapple sauce, and herbs. The drinks and the room are colorful, the vibes are ideal, and reservations are recommended.

Lead baker and co-owner Andy Wysocki wakes up at 3 a.m. to prepare some of the best bagels in Southern California. The kitchen also produces brownies, cookies, and other baked goods every day. The line is consistently long, so get to Townie early or settle in for a long wait — it’s worth it.

This takeout-only spot caters to those looking for a plant-based meal. Omnivores and vegans alike will find something delicious with a vast selection that includes an eggless egg salad, smoked “chicken” pasta, Moroccan-roasted cauliflower, sandwiches, and tempeh burgers.

Amala is located inside the Palm Springs Surf Club, a property centered around a waterpark where people can surf, float on a lazy river, or head down a waterslide. Grab a table and hang out for a while noshing on salads, burgers, pizza, and pastrami panini. Don’t miss the 15 beers on draft, respectable wine list, and cocktails like the smoky peach margarita.

Mr. Lyons’s glamorous dining room is a modern take on an old-school steakhouse. Prime rib, lamb shanks, and salmon en croute will always satisfy but don’t skip the Akaushi rib eye, vegetarian Wellington, or the $35 “elevated” burger. The restaurant serves a Philly cheesesteak that is gloriously messy and delicious.

From early morning until late night, Norma’s serves food inside the Parker Palm Springs hotel. Start with a cocktail any time of day before diving into brunch items like french toast, pancakes, salads, and six kinds of eggs Benedict. Dinner brings a wagyu lasagna, steak, and lobster mac and cheese.