Spring break is all about sunshine, adventure, and—of course—delicious eats. Whether you're fueling up for a day by the pool or toasting to golden-hour views, Greater Palm Springs serves up a dining scene as vibrant as the season itself. Ready to dig in? Check out these crave-worthy spots to satisfy every spring break appetite, from rooftop cocktails to family-friendly feasts.
Light & Bright Spring Break Bites
Some spring breaks are for self-care and recharging, and if you're looking for lighter bites during your stay, you'll find a variety of options. Chef Tanya's Kitchen is a must for vegan and vegetarian foodies, with a tasty plant-based menu of sandwiches, tempeh power burgers, salads, and more. Hit up the Kreamery at their Palm Desert location for vegan soft-serve ice cream (and fun toppings like vegan marshmallows and mochi bites). Over in Old Town La Quinta, YES PLEASE shop crafts house-made pastries and delicious coffees alongside breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Start the day with a mixed berry smoothie or egg white and spinach sandwich from the "Lite Stuff" part of the menu, paired with a speciality latte from the coffee bar. If you're craving fruits and veggies—especially after a morning hike—visit one of Fresh Juice Bar's three locations (Palm Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta) and try one of their handcrafted drinks made with only natural ingredients (the Desert Delight smoothie is made with local Coachella Valley dates).
Global Flavors
Want to take your tastes buds on a vacation, too? Greater Palm Springs is home to several restaurants that specialize in international flavors, from Cuistot, where French- and Italian-inspired cuisine takes center stage (alongside the cozy patio), to family-owned Fernanda’s Salvadorian Food, serving up traditional corn pastry-wrapped pupusas, chilaquiles, and fresh fish. Other standouts include La Perlita, an unassuming spot tucked away in a shopping center and known for Mexican mainstays like stuffed burrito supremes, smothered enchiladas, and Baja-style soft corn tacos served with traditional beans and rice, and Musashi Sushi, a Palm Desert sushi restaurant known for its friendly atmosphere, fresh fish, and creative presentation. Grab a takeout order and bring it back to your hotel to eat poolside.
Rooftop & Patio Vibes
Of course, spring is an ideal time of year to soak in all the sunshine, enjoy the fresh air, and savor the views (alongside whatever's on your plate). Escape to the enchanting Pink Cabana, nestled within the Sands Hotel & Spa in Indian Wells, and immerse yourself in Moroccan-inspired elegance as you relish Mediterranean cuisine and craft cocktails in a picturesque outdoor dining space. At Eight4Nine in the Uptown Design District of Palm Springs, the kaleidoscopic decor is matched only by the food, which is delicious and creatively prepared; enjoy elevated dishes like Chilean sea bass, lobster carbonara, and grilled octopus on the chic and modern patio. Or ascend to new heights at High Bar atop the seven-story Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, where you've got views for days alongside those chilled drinks, light bar bites, and cool, classy furnishings.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Spring breaking with the kiddos? All ages enjoy the immersive dining experience at KOBE Japanese Steakhouse, inspired by a traditional Japanese country inn, and homemade pop-tarts at Wilma & Frieda are always a hit; the Meyer lemon blueberry pastry, iced and topped with rainbow sprinkles, was even served to Guy Fieri when he visited the restaurant for "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." Feeling some pizza? Families can fight over the last slice at Bill's Pizza, known for speciality pies like the Elton John (garlic-infused olive oil sauce, artichoke hearts, tomatoes, spinach, red onions, and four cheeses). And you can top it all off with a date shake from one of these seven tasty date shake spots, including the iconic Shields Date Garden, which recently celebrated 100 years.
Dinner and a Scene
if you're someone who has to soak up every last bit of sunshine before heading out to dinner, consider a spot that's as entertaining as it is delicious. Greater Palm Springs knows how to do late-night bites, whether it's amid the electric atmosphere of The Village in downtown Palm Springs (a locally loved restaurant meets sports bar meets nightclub) or in the heart of The Shops on El Paseo at Kitchen 86 + Bar, where you can order wood fired pizzas or their famous "Boom Boom" shrimp from the special "Late Night Menu" starting at 11 p.m. For a refined dining experience, book a table at The Nest and indulge in the popular stuffed cabbage rolls or veal piccata before making your way to the bustling dance floor, where a nightly DJ often has people lined up outside the door.
From morning smoothies to late-night bites, the spring break dining scene in Greater Palm Springs promises to be as bold, bright, and unforgettable as the destination itself. So gather your crew, follow your cravings, and savor every bite this spring break! Start planning your spring getaway with these great savings here. For more Things To Do During Spring Break, see here!
