Find Classic Comfort Food and Luxe Surf ‘n Turf at The Shops on El Paseo
While often hailed for its lavish resorts, world-renowned golf courses and country clubs and remarkable desert scenery, Palm Desert is also home to some of the best dining destinations in all of California. And with the dry desert heat beginning to wane and cooler, star-filled skies on the horizon, the fall season is the perfect time to see what the desert’s vibrant culinary scene has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a decadent brunch spot or a cozy steakhouse, foodies will tell you that the best stretch of restaurants in the area can be found at the city’s sprawling outdoor district, The Shops on El Paseo. Tucked neatly in the heart of downtown Palm Desert, this culinary and retail paradise is home to more than a dozen unique shops and restaurants, each with its own signature style and flavor. So if you are looking for incredible eats and views of the desert’s stunning peach-colored mountains, read on to see our picks of the best restaurants in Palm Desert for fall dining.
🏅Best for Brunch
Shorebird
Luxury and leisure combine effortlessly at Shorebird. This semi-new restaurant at The Shops on El Paseo is characterized by marble and gold accents, a sleek, modern interior and a decadent brunch menu with dishes that truly shine. Shorebird’s brunch menu is extensive, featuring everything from fluffy egg frittatas to sizzling chilaquiles, layering in elements of classic Americana as well as coastal Latin flavors. To make it a boozy brunch, say yes to their bottomless mimosas and hand-pulled espresso martinis!
🏅Best for Happy Hour
Eddie V’s
With nearly 30 locations across the country, Eddie V’s is a well-loved establishment, and after one trip to this steakhouse, it’s easy to see why. White tablecloths, crystal chandeliers and a dapper waitstaff set the scene for a sophisticated dining experience. However, once the overflowing seafood towers and an array of perfectly plump oysters arrive, the food takes center stage. For many, Eddie V’s is reserved for special occasions, but those venturing to their El Paseo location can experience this beloved staple in a casual way, thanks to their incredible happy hour. Featuring everything from discounted appetizers, including their acclaimed steak tataki and yellowtail sashimi, to fragrant and refreshing signature cocktails, Eddie V’s is the ultimate happy hour destination.
🏅Best for Late-Night
Kitchen 86
Looking for a late-night bite? Head over to Kitchen 86! The vibrant hues of blue lights flood this modern dining space, filling the air with an after-hours allure. Staying open as late as 12:30 a.m. on the weekends, Kitchen 86’s late-night menu features fresh, wood-fired pizzas and fun, elevated takes on classic midnight munchies, such as their spicy 86 Diavlo Wings. When you’re out on the sidewalks of El Paseo on Saturday night, be sure to visit Kitchen 86 to experience Palm Desert’s favorite late-night vibe.
🏅Best for Special Occasions
Porta Via
Natural light pours through the windows and onto the chic, sandalwood interior of Porta Via, one of Palm Desert’s most upscale restaurants. This trendy hotspot captures the coastal essence of California’s rich culinary history, serving up delectable seafood and steaks alongside an impressive array of mouthwatering appetizers. Porta Via’s expansive dining room also makes it a perfect spot for larger group gatherings, with the diversity of their menu making it easy to cater to a wide variety of tastes. Be sure to check out their list of seasonal cocktails, as their master mixologists are always adding to their portfolio of delectable drinks.
🏅Best for a Dinner Date
Daily Grill
American comfort food in autumn is a classic craving, and The Shops on El Paseo knows how to curate the season. Daily Grill executes on this vision in every way. From the retro diner aesthetic to the friendly wait staff, this cozy bistro embraces authenticity and indulgence in a warm and inviting way. Serving up everything from creamy chicken pot pies to gooey apple cobbler, comfort food has never tasted better.
🏅Best for Authentic Mexican
Mole
Traditional Mexican cuisine exists in abundance in Palm Desert, and a Mexican restaurant must be incredible to stand out here. Mole is a Mexican kitchen that brings authentic south-of-the-border flavors to the desert region with scratch-made dishes and drinks. Head chef Roberto Madrid’s meticulously curated menu emphasizes technique and tradition, slow cooking and braising everything to perfection, especially their famous mole con pollo asada enchiladas.
Snack on award-winning salsas while sipping on one of their tangy and sweet margaritas. Then, follow it up with a signature Latin entree for a full dining experience that makes its mark on the vibrant community of Palm Desert.
🏅Best for Families
California Pizza Kitchen
For those seeking something a bit more casual, El Paseo is also home to a California Pizza Kitchen! With an elevated ambiance to match the upscale atmosphere of this retail district, CPK is perfect for a quick lunch before an extended shopping spree. From original pizzas to handcrafted pasta, there’s a reason this chain has won the hearts of foodies across the state. It’s the perfect pit stop before doing some shopping at The Shops on El Paseo.
🏅Best for a Quick Bite
Shake Shack (coming soon!)
Rounding out our list is the latest addition to El Paseo’s thriving culinary scene—beloved national burger chain Shake Shack! With juicy smashburgers, creamy milkshakes, crispy crinkle-cut fries and a signature burger sauce that is nothing short of divine, Shake Shack has everything one could want in a burger bistro. With new locations popping up across the country, this fast-casual restaurant continues to wow tastebuds, and after one sip, bite or dip, it’s easy to see why. Be sure to check out their grand opening when Shake Shack joins The Shops on El Paseo roster this fall!
