With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, here are some of the top spots in Palm Springs to check out. These are some gems in Palm Springs beyond your typical chain steakhouses to get a taste of the best of local flavors. Enjoy a memorable atmosphere and spectacular food at any of these venues. Make reservations now for your evening with your spouse, partner, significant other, or friends. Any of these spots will be a treat for your date- and for you!

1) Lavender Bistro

Have Valentine’s dinner straight out of a fairytale, surrounded by beautiful sparkling lights, blooming flowers, and live music to set the mood! Lavender Bistro is an elegant hideaway featuring an adventurous menu with a setting that lends itself to special occasions. As the recipient of the 2020 Diner’s Choice award, it’s sure to impress.

Here’s what Lavender Bistro says on their site about their venue:

Voted ‘Best romantic Restaurant,’ you will savor our “New American Cuisine” that will captivate your palette. We serve only the finest, freshest and organic ingredients; from our pastries to our finest meats and freshly caught seafood. If you’re looking for lighter fare, visit our ‘famous’ and lively Fireside Lounge where you will enjoy drink specials all night and live music is offered from 4p.m. to close.

Location: 78-073 Calle Barcelona, La Quinta, CA 92253

2) Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge

This colorful and contemporary restaurant in the Uptown Design District is a perfect spot for a night to remember! Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a multi-course meal headlined by favorites such as Baja Striped Bass, Grilled Cauliflower Steak, Harris Ranch Short Rib, Lobster Bisque, and much more. Plus, finish off your meal with a dessert such as classic chocolate-dipped strawberries and sorbetto di jour. 

Here’s what the owner has to say about their special ambiance:

The striking crisp white Interior of EIGHT4NINE Restaurant & Lounge creates a minimalist atmosphere and a blank canvas to reflect the diverse colors of the menu’s culinary creations. The dazzling décor is an eclectic mix of rustic farm house tables juxtaposed with modern tables and contemporary chairs. The stunning effect is equal parts glamorous opulence and welcoming comfort.

Location: 849 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262

3) Mitch’s on El Paso

If you or your date are big seafood fans, Mitch’s is a must-try! Featuring sushi, seafood, a specialty Sake selection, and much more, be sure to make your reservations in advance for this hot spot. With beautiful dining inside or outside, your meal here will definitely delight!

Here’s a little more information on the unique backstory of this restaurant:

Mitch’s on El Paseo is a concept developed by long-time restaurateur, Mitch Epstein, who brings his 31 years in the restaurant business to team up with respected sushi master and chef, James Holder – who was raised in Japan as the son of an American serviceman and a Japanese mother, and remembers learning to ‘cut fish’ (as he calls it) when he was 13, in his village of Hiyama.

Location: 73951 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA 92260

4) PS Underground Presents Stupid Cupid

Wanting an experience that’s unique and memorable? Check out PS Underground, an unexpected dining experience. On Valentine’s Day, enjoy dinner and a show full of humor and interesting characters to wash away any bitterness the holiday may bring. Tickets to this event are available to purchase in advance. The multiple course menu is kept secret and is revealed as the evening progresses.

So, what exactly is PS Underground?

What started as a group of friends around the table enjoying food food has grown into a full-on secret supper club with weekly dining events of various themes. Established in 2012.

Location: 1700 South Camino Real, Suite 2, Palm Springs, CA 92264

5) LULU California Bistro

This modern and charming spot in Downtown Palm Springs makes a perfect place for celebration. Stop by LULU for a special 4-course dinner featuring some of their most famous dishes which make their long-awaited return for this delightful menu, accompanied by a complimentary glass of champagne with the dessert course.

Here’s a note from the business about their unique, hip spot:

At Lulu California Bistro, we have a passion for great food that shows in our dishes. Our team includes talented, award-winning chefs who prepare every dish with fresh, high quality ingredients. We want to thank you our guests, for choosing LULU for your dining, catering and private party needs. It is because of you that OpenTable named us one of the “Top 100 Dining Hot Spots in the U.S.” and has repeatedly  honored  us  with  their “Diners Choice Award”.  We look forward to serving you in the future. 

Location: 200 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 

6) JOHANNES

For a delightful taste of Europe, enjoy JOHANNES. The menu is crafted from classic Austrian dishes and served beautifully. The interior is beautiful with creative decor and a thoughtful design throughout. And don’t forget dessert! Take your tastebuds on a journey to another region without leaving the desert.