Palm Springs Dining: Michelin Guide Favorites Worth the Hype

Palm Springs is serving up some serious flavor, and the Michelin Guide has taken notice. Eight standout restaurants made the “Michelin recommended” cut, each showcasing the creativity, flavor, and flair that make epicurean experiences here unforgettable. Whether you’re craving fine dining, elevated casual, or something boldly innovative, you’ll find it on this list

Bar Cecil

Bar Cecil is one of the most sought-after seats in Palm Springs, and the buzzy energy hits you the second you walk through the door. Inspired by Cecil Beaton, the space is all swank and style, flanked with a modern art collection, moody lighting, and a string-lit patio that feels like a scene meant for lingering. The French-inspired menu features beautifully executed dishes, and the cocktails are sensational, including the beloved $50 martini. With only a handful of walk-in bar seats, it’s worth making a reservation. Should you forget, this glam little hotspot is absolutely worth the wait.

4 Saints

Set high on the seventh floor of the Kimpton Rowan Hotel, 4 Saints brings the ‘wow’ factor with panoramic views of downtown and the San Jacinto mountains. The sophisticated dining room makes every meal feel like a celebration, while exceptional service and a spectacular atmosphere set the mood for unforgettable affairs. The menu boasts modern American fare with a global twist, featuring shareable, seasonal plates loaded with prime meats and fresh seafood. The sunset views from the patio offer an unmatched open-air dining experience.

Cheeky’s

Cheeky’s has been a Palm Springs legend for nearly two decades, and its cult following proves the hype is real. The bi-weekly rotating menu keeps things fresh, from the scratch-made dishes, fresh-squeezed juices, and boozy bubbles to their famous bacon flight (five flavors that change often but are always ridiculously good). Breakfast favorites like the huevos rancheros and chilaquiles with chorizo, tomatillo, and queso fresco never miss, though honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything here. With both indoor and outdoor seating and some of the best people-watching in town, it’s no wonder people keep coming back.

Boozehounds

Located in the uptown design district, Boozehounds is where humans and their pups come to eat and socialize. The shaded patio is ideal for brunching on longanisa hash or chicken and waffles while sipping a Jungle Bird (or a margarita, if you prefer). The happy hour menu is full of favorites like truffle fries and smash burgers, but dinner really turns up the flavor with lumpia, pork belly sharables, shrimp and grits, and more globally inspired dishes. Add craft cocktails, a dog-friendly menu, and a lovely SoCal vibe, and it’s no wonder it's earned a spot in the Michelin Guide.

Tac/Quila

Tac/Quila is a downtown favorite where business suits rub elbows with flip flops over elevated Mexican cuisine. Street tacos, short rib enchiladas, and grilled lobster tail tacos all grace the menu, each dish inspired by the Jalisco region in Mexico. Vegan options are just as inventive and flavorful. Sip a craft cocktail or explore their tequila and mezcal selection while enjoying impeccable service and beautifully presented plates. With its creatively bold dishes, Tac/Quila truly stands out as a must-visit Michelin Guide restaurant.

Colony Club

Located in the glamorous Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows, Colony Club exudes classic Palm Springs luxury. Elevated dishes and innovative plates take every dish to the next level. Beef Wellington, roasted Colorado lamb saddle, and duck a l’orange are a few highlights from the dinner menu, but they’re open for three squares a day and brunch on weekends, so you have options to explore the menu further. Save room for the baked Alaska, or le rose noir, a chocolate lava cake with rose petal and blueberry jam. You’re welcome.

Workshop Kitchen + Bar

It’s all about the natural elements at Workshop Kitchen + Bar that make this a must-visit Micheline Guide restaurant. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, a dedicated garden in Rancho Mirage, and creative techniques, like dry aging and fermenting, make every dish as inventive as it is flavorful. Handcrafted cocktails and beautifully curated spirits elevate every experience, making it the perfect place for seasonal gatherings and milestone events, whether dining inside or out on the patio.

The Barn Kitchen

The Barn Kitchen at Sparrows Lodge lets fresh, local ingredients shine in their hand-crafted American dishes with subtle Mediterranean influences. Meals are served family-style at communal tables in a garden-inspired open-air setting, and vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options ensure every guest leaves happy. Unhurried service allows guests to savor light lunches or refined dinners accompanied by poolside views, candlelight, and stunning sunsets. 

Stay Near Palm Springs Michelin Guide Restaurants with ACME 

After a night of creatively bold dishes and cocktails, relax in one of our carefully curated, impeccably maintained, and centrally located Palm Springs vacation homes! Whether you’re planning a foodie weekend or a full-on Palm Springs getaway, ACME makes it easy to stay in style near the things you love!

ABOUT ACME HOUSE COMPANY: ACME manages Luxury Vacation Rental Homes & Condos in Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities, catering to those looking to travel to the world-renowned destination for the season, week-long stays and extended weekends. Fabulous pool homes for when you and your peeps want some together time. Visit ACME’s Website to explore more Palm Springs Vacation Rental Homes.

Photos courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs and the Visit Palm Springs

Published by Matthew Bruce
Friday, December 12, 2025