This New Palm Desert Restaurant Will Be Your Go-to Dining Destination

Add This Newbie to Your Foodie Bucket List

As you enter through the green front doors flanked by breeze blocks, a vibrant interior is unveiled with brass details, warm millwork and an exquisite terrazzo-tiled floor. Complete with heaters and misters, the patio of Palm Desert’s all-new Porta Via is shaded by a stunning pergola and offers diners a front-row view of the surrounding mountains. Porta Via Palm Desert

Credit: George Duchannes

Porta Via at The Shops on El Paseo is the fourth restaurant location for owner Peter Garland. The new Palm Desert location takes over a 5,000-square-foot space at El Paseo and Ocotillo Dr, formerly home to Escada. For the design, Garland teamed up with LA Times Top 25 Designer Sophie Goineau to channel classic desert midcentury style. This marks their third collaboration, and guests will be smitten with the space’s thoughtful touches and striking attention to detail.

“A neighborhood restaurant with a world-class feel” is how Garland describes the vibe they embody at Porta Via Palm Desert.

Credit: George Duchannes

Described as an upscale-California bistro, Porta Via features seasonal and organic ingredients.

Meanwhile they serve weekend brunch, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Garland’s cooking philosophy inspired the menu at Porta Via. This is to combine the best seasonal, organic ingredients and prepare them simply.

Credit: George Duchannes

Menu highlights include the Porta Via Salad with butter lettuce, Maui onion, dill, chervil, French feta, and avocado in champagne shallot vinaigrette. Other standouts are the Grilled Ōra King Salmon, Butternut Squash Tortellini, and Chef Brennen’s daily oyster and raw-bar picks. The cocktail list features artisan drinks made with local fruits, herbs, and wines from small, sustainable, and organic producers. It’s all part of the restaurant’s philosophy—fresh, thoughtful ingredients served with style and intention. A selection of champagne and sparkling wine are offered for celebratory events.

From healthy to hearty, the innovative menu will have something for everyone. “We are looking forward to opening the doors and welcoming the community,” shares Porta Via General Manager Rebecca Elliott.

“Personally, I’m so excited to build upon the relationships I’ve nurtured in my years of hospitality and provide a warm welcome to the people of Palm Desert.”

The restaurant aims to create a Palm Desert spot where both locals and tourists feel welcomed by a warm, hospitality-focused staff.“Whether it be brunch with friends, a business luncheon or a date night out, Porta Via Palm Desert will be the place you’ll want to meet,” says Elliott. Those familiar with her know the special touches she adds to a dining experience and the genuine warmth she brings to each guest.

Officially opened on May 5th, Porta Via is a vibrant new addition to El Paseo and the desert’s growing dining scene. Can’t wait to check it out? Visit one of their other locations in Beverly Hills, Calabasas, or Pacific Palisades. You can preview the menu and gather inspiration before your visit.