Fresh seafood, coastal flavors, desert setting—Greater Palm Springs brings them together beautifully. Check out this mix of upscale experiences, laid-back favorites, sushi spots, and regional gems worth finding.
Upscale Dining
Copley’s
Located on the former Cary Grant estate in Palm Springs, this award-winning spot feels upscale without losing its classic desert character. Their patio, backed by mountain views, is an ideal setting to enjoy dishes like seared scallops, lobster ceviche, seafood pasta, and Mediterranean-style grilled branzino. And although the menu leans into seafood, you can also find upscale classics like roasted duck, prime rib, and plenty of veggie options.
Oceans Restaurant
This Italian-style seafood restaurant brings classic coastal elegance to Palm Springs. Expect classics like bouillabaisse, seafood paella, lobster ravioli, and all sorts of appetizers for sharing. Its cozy setting and extensive wine list make it an ideal place for a special night out.
DSRT Club
Known for its nostalgic and stylish interior and creative cocktails, DSRT Club in La Quinta also knows how to do seafood the right way. Guests rave about their hibiscus-seared scallops and their prawn jambalaya, but you’ll find plenty of other seafood recipes across their lunch and dinner menus. The vibes here are classy but relaxed, making it a perfect restaurant for a date, a birthday celebration, or an outing with friends and family.
Casual Spots
Fisherman’s Market & Grill
With locations in Palm Springs, La Quinta, and Palm Desert, Fisherman’s offers guests all sorts of seaside staples like grilled shrimp, jumbo scallops, crab cakes, fish sandwiches, and more. The atmosphere is always casual and family-friendly, great for nights when you want top-tier, no frills seafood.
Pacifica Seafood Restaurant
Pacifica in Palm Desert features daily happy hour specials, an outdoor patio perfect for groups, and, of course, a stacked seafood menu that includes fresh fish fillets, pastas, and exquisite surf-and-turf pairings.
Ruben & Ozzy’s Oyster Bar & Grill
This Palm Springs local favorite has an approachable, down-to-earth feel. If you’ve never been here, you can’t go wrong with their fish tacos, shrimp buckets, oyster shooters, or crab enchiladas. When you want seafood in a lively setting with friendly locals, Ruben & Ozzy’s is the place to be.
Sushi and Seafood Fusion
Mitch’s on El Paseo
Mitch’s in Palm Desert combines classic fine-dining vibes with a sushi-centric experience. They offer traditional nigiri and sashimi plates alongside inventive rolls and freshly cooked fish entrees. Their patio with mountain views and the buzz of El Paseo nearby make for a pleasant evening escape.
Ponzu Sushi
A recent arrival to the Palm Springs food scene, Ponzu focuses on traditional sushi and sake pairings. Their signature rolls are creative, and the nigiri and sashimi earn high marks for freshness and quality. If you’re seeking a modern sushi escape in the desert, you can’t go wrong with booking a table here.
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey
With award-winning sushi chef Engin Onural at the helm, Sandfish in Palm Springs is a standout in the sushi/fusion category. Their bold rolls, fresh fish, and inventive flavor combinations riff on seafood traditions across Latin America, Europe, and Asia, turning this place into a go-to spot for anyone searching for one-of-a-kind recipes.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Riccio’s Steak & Seafood
A longtime Palm Springs staple, Riccio’s does its Italian-inspired seafood with finesse. Try their surf-and-turf, scallop pasta, or daily fish specials. The indoor-outdoor setup in downtown Palm Springs keeps things comfortable yet inviting for groups of all sizes.
La Quinta Cliffhouse
Perched on a rock outcrop, Cliffhouse offers dramatic views with an exceptional seafood menu. Standouts here include the seared swordfish, cioppino, and innovative clam, mussel, and oyster dishes that have earned this spot raving reviews from casual diners and food critics alike.
Ready for your next foodie adventure? Here’s a complete guide to a weekend exploring the heart of Greater Palm Springs, from where to dine to all of the activities in-between.
