Many a romance has bloomed in Greater Palm Springs. Surely, the combination of warm weather and scenic beauty has something to do with it. But the real fun is in the adventure—dining out or staying somewhere downright memorable with somebody you share a strong connection with. Shop at any number of local boutiques, lounge poolside with your loved one, or gaze at the starry skies at night. For some added romance, consider any one of these options when planning your next date night and, well, feel that love.
LOLA ROSE GRAND MEZZE
The venue is just one of several in the new, chic Thompson Palm Springs hotel, a destination worth the stay. Lola Rose stands out for its bold, mezze-style Eastern Mediterranean flavors and inventive seasonal menus. The restaurant emits that “fabulous” vibe, overlooking scenic mountains surrounding downtown Palm Springs. This is the perfect spot for a great meal, where you can linger, chat, and enjoy cocktails and mocktails. Afterward, keep it fun and explore nearby shops like Destination PSP, Just Fabulous, or stroll over to Oscar’s Palm Springs nearby for some nightclub festivities.
OSCAR’S PALM SPRINGS
Oscar's Palm Springs is known for its “bitchiest” brunch, helmed by divine drag queens. But this is also a great nighttime spot, with its eclectic lineup of events. For the adventurous among you, head over on the weekend for the wild brunch, which features specialty cocktails and drag performances. (A perfect “date” option.) Then rest, my dear. In the early evening, make your way back to Oscar’s for dinner and drinks with David McBride on keys in Oscar’s Atrium Bar, conveniently connected to the newly renovated Plaza Theatre.
LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO
Lulu California Bistro is one of the more colorful date night options, thanks to its fabulous location right in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. This is the perfect place to people-watch with your honey and catch up with friends and fellow couples. Either way, it’s festive all around, and many a romance has been known to sprout or be nurtured from the conversations that arose here. Check out the second floor as it offers stellar views of the bar and lounge below. Diverse menu and cocktail choices make for a memorable night, no?
EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge is one of the Uptown Design District’s more frequented havens, which earned a 5-star rating on its way to become a huge success with locals and visitors. The design scheme—minimalist—just lures you in. The comfy furnishings allow guests to linger and socialize, but one great option here may be their cozy outdoor patio, the perfect spot for you and your date. Adding to the date experience here are the meals, like their delicious Chicken Milanese which is truly memorable. Be sure to stroll the block afterward and check out some of the shops.
EL MOROCCO INN & SPA
This tranquil, Moroccan-themed oasis in Desert Hot Springs is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. The natural mineral spring pool and spa stand out as does the continental breakfast. If you’re not staying and simply visiting, your main go-to is the bar and restaurant. Consider the Morocco-tini. In the meantime, guests have bragged about the movie-themed-like setting, complete with flowing fabrics, colorful beds, and bedspreads.
ASH & VINE RESTAURANT
Ash & Vine is Palm Springs’ newest culinary destination by Chef Matt Resler has captured our attention. The downtown Palm Springs venue is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. The owners know cuisine and hospitality, and this cozy enclave features a flavorful menu. Grilled cheese dumplings and scallop risotto caught our eye, but what’s this? The Heirloom Terrine is a remarkable house-made vegan meatloaf with smoked mirepoix, vegetable demi-glace, foraged mushrooms, and caramelized cauliflower. That’s worth at least one peck on the cheek. Big plus: The wine list is impressive.
PEAKS RESTAURANT
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s main restaurant has it all—atmosphere, great meals, and a superb location more than 8,000 feet above the desert floor below. If you come before dusk, you can explore some of the smaller hiking trails near the main building. Dress accordingly, as the temperatures here are about 30 degrees cooler. And if you’re hoping to evoke some serious romance, there’s nothing better than that panoramic view of the valley to help. Take your time, share a bottle of wine, enjoy a fine meal. Sublime all around.
PLAZA THEATRE
The Plaza Theatre is back. It’s refurbished. It’s fabulous. And you should put it on your calendar. Pair up a dinner outing with any number of events unfolding here. Since 1936, the Plaza Theatre has been the heartbeat of Palm Springs. The glimmer of Hollywood's Golden Era permeates the venue. Recently refurbished and brought back to life, more than 100 shows occur here year-round.
TOUCANS TIKI LOUNGE
Nothing smacks of “pure fun” like Toucans, the venerable bar and performance venue known for its stellar drag performers. Toucans hosts “the 5-Day Weekend,” featuring performance Drag Nights Slayhouse, FREAKQNCY, KICKXYLAND, and “Sunday funday” with a wild lineup dubbed “Stars of the Desert.” The club also brings in top-tier cabaret and performance talent as part of Toucan's ongoing “Live on Stage” series. A meal at Boozehounds nearby will give you the energy to enjoy the festivities here. Have a ball.
Looking to further explore? Check out some of the best LGBTQ+ Happy Hours in Greater Palm Springs.
