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Diners' Choice: Contemporary American restaurants in Palm Springs / Palm Desert

OpenTable

Updated December 05, 2024

Looking for restaurants with the best overall Contemporary American cuisine in Palm Springs / Palm Desert? You’re in the right place. Each month OpenTable analyzes more than 400,000 new diner reviews. We sort the results by category to help you discover new favorites. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

A photo of Copley's on Palm Canyon restaurant

Copley's on Palm Canyon

4.8

4.8 (6500)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Palm Springs

About the restaurant

Please Note - Copley's is now open 7 days a week through June 2025.
Copley’s is an award-winning restaurant serving American cuisine infused with hints of tropical and European flavors. Located in part of the former Cary Grant estate in the heart of Palm Springs, guests experience an upscale and inviting dining experience either outside on the patio with stunning mountain views or by enjoying the friendly atmosphere indoors. Executive Chef Andrew Copley has an extensive 20-year culinary background at five-star restaurants and hotels across the world, and is well known for innovative dishes such as Asian Spiced Barramundi, Charred Berkshire Pork Chop and creative nightly specials. Come and see why we were voted Top 100 Patio Dining in America!

Top review

S

SueVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Amazing ambience (former Cary Grant estate), food and service. Excellent martinis and manhattans! What more can you ask for?!😉

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A photo of Asian Spiced Barramundi of a restaurant

Asian Spiced Barramundi

A photo of Copley's Caesar Salad of a restaurant

Copley's Caesar Salad

A photo of Eight4Nine restaurant

4.8

4.8 (5074)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Palm Springs

About the restaurant

Join us for Lunch, Brunch or Dinner. Reservations recommended but not necessary. Lounge and bar open all day long for walk-ins. No reservations for lounge or bar. Open 7 days a week.

Top review

S

ScottVIP

Dined 3 days ago

First of all , thank you to the amazing employees that make 849 so special, specifically Ruby. She is great. 849 is one of our regular spots. Love the GF, vegan/vegetarian dishes and non alcoholic options. (I do miss the cauliflower dish. Sorry… the cabbage just doesn’t work for me) Love you guys and thank you.

A photo of Wally's Desert Turtle restaurant

Wally's Desert Turtle

4.8

4.8 (3797)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Rancho Mirage

About the restaurant

"The Finest Dining in the Coachella Valley" Offering a refreshed and re-imagined take on Modern California Cuisine. And the local response has been "Amazing"!

An Official California Dining Destination, Wally's Desert Turtle in Rancho Mirage proudly supports local Ranches, Farms and Fisheries committed to the smart-stewardship of the planet through sustainable, earth-friendly and ocean-friendly practices.

The finest local ingredients, impeccable service and exceptional surroundings always make for "A Great Night Out" at Wally's Desert Turtle.

Top review

L

LydiaVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Wally’s was a great experience. Food is delicious, I had the salmon any my friend had the Cacio e Pepe ravioli. We also split the desert soufflé, very yummy. Prices are very high for the desert. Great celebration type restaurant. I suggest servers not rush guests through their meal and bringing check shortly after finishing last course. For the level of ambience it would be better to let the guest drive next course and when to get check.

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A photo of Honolulu Tuna Tartare of a restaurant

Honolulu Tuna Tartare

A photo of Cinnamon Carrot Cake of a restaurant

Cinnamon Carrot Cake

A photo of Christmas Eve at Wally's of a restaurant

Christmas Eve at Wally's

A photo of Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate restaurant

Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate

4.7

4.7 (4135)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Palm Springs

About the restaurant

A timeless Palm Springs classic specializing in traditional American Fare with a modern twist. Located in the heart of Palm Springs, in the famous Ingleside Inn, Melvyns Restaurant also features a full bar, dancefloor and piano lounge on a first come first serve basis.

Top review

S

SandraVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Lovely evening, great ambiance and Peter did an excellent job. Steak tartare came with potato chips? Instead of crackers? The fire desserts were presented in a bowl instead of shallow plate and 4 little plates to share. Way too sweet compared to Brennan’s in New Orleans. Bar did not have crème de menthe? For after dinner drink in the bar.

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A photo of Key Lime Pie of a restaurant

A photo of Steak Diane of a restaurant

A photo of Steak Frites of a restaurant

A photo of Morgan's in the Desert restaurant

Morgan's in the Desert

4.6

4.6 (2978)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

La Quinta

About the restaurant

Morgan’s in the desert showcases contemporary American cuisine inspired by the bounty of the Coachella Valley. We source the region’s top products – and craft them with traditional cooking methods – to bring you deliciously simple and healthy dishes.

Top review

R

RayVIP

Dined 2 days ago

First time dining. Just pulling up the driveway and seeing the beautiful Christmas tree was a precursor to an absolutely lovely evening. We sat at a table by the bar enjoying solo, piano player and vocals. Bryant doubled as waiter and bartender. He his team could not have been more tremendous. The food was exceptional, especially the cauliflower appetizer & Faroe Islands Salmon. Highly, highly recommend.

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A photo of 8oz USDA Filet Mignon of a restaurant

8oz USDA Filet Mignon

A photo of Beef Carpaccio of a restaurant

A photo of Grilled Sea Bass of a restaurant

Grilled Sea Bass

A photo of POM - Fantasy Springs Resort Casino restaurant

POM - Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

4.5

4.5 (977)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Indio

About the restaurant

POM is Fantasy Springs Resort Casino's answer to casino cafes. POM features breakfast, lunch and dinner in an atmosphere that's light, airy and modern.

Reviewers on Yelp.com give POM 4&1/2 stars out of 5 and for good reason. The food here is of top quality. Chef Freddy Rieger even gets herbs used for cooking and garnish from the garden just outside the restaurant's French doors. The food is inventive yet hearty and the service is friendly and attentive.

Patrons can also order cocktails here they won't find anywhere else around Palm Springs. How about a Date Martini or a hand-crafted White Sangria?

POM excites your senses and keeps you coming back for more.

Top review

D

DianeVIP

Dined on Dec 14, 2024

Always a fabulous dining experience...the staff is so well trained and very attentive. The 12th Floor Lounge is the best in the valley with great music on the weekends!

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A photo of Roast Prime Rib of a restaurant

Roast Prime Rib

A photo of Tuscan Brick Chicken of a restaurant

Tuscan Brick Chicken

A photo of 4 Saints restaurant

4.6

4.6 (1540)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Palm Springs

About the restaurant

With unparalleled views of picturesque mountains, 4 Saints provides a unique and modern space. Our menu is driven by bright, clean, soulful flavors that are influenced by the seasons. The beverage program provides a concise wine list, local brews, and masterful cocktails.

Top review

M

MichaelVIP

Dined 5 days ago

Each dish is better than the last. All creative and delicious. Price points border on obnoxious. Service is stellar.

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A photo of Lobster Ceviche of a restaurant

Lobster Ceviche

A photo of Chilean Sea Bass of a restaurant

Chilean Sea Bass

A photo of Burratta of a restaurant

A photo of June Hill's Table restaurant

June Hill's Table

4.4

4.4 (1205)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

La Quinta

About the restaurant

We are currently open and available for Indoor and Outdoor Seating as well as Takeout. Open to both Community Members and the public, June Hill’s Table recognizes June Hill McCarroll, one of Coachella Valley’s most renowned and important founding residents. June Hill’s Table serves a variety of seasonal dishes made from scratch using fresh and local ingredients. Live music on Wednesday and Sunday evenings. Simply put, the feature dining experience at The Polo Club is set to showcase good food, done well.

Top review

C

CathyVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Had to send the wings back not cooked enough. The steak tacos were chewy. The French fries were the best thing we had. Sorry food needs to improve.

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A photo of Fish + Chips of a restaurant

A photo of Pasta Salad of a restaurant

A photo of Zin American Bistro restaurant

Zin American Bistro

4.6

4.6 (2586)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Palm Springs

About the restaurant

For the past 20 years, Zin has been a popular spot for locals in the downtown area. We offer crafted cocktails, brunch, and dinner. We are proud to have received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for our extensive wine list which boasts over 545 selections. In addition to inside bar and table seating we have a beautiful heated and cooled covered patio for outdoor dining.

Top review

F

FaroukVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Zin has consistently been an enchanting spot for gathering with friends, savoring exquisite cuisine, and enjoying fine wines. The maitre d' warmly welcomes guests with a radiant smile, setting the tone for impeccable service. The chef truly shines, crafting dishes that are an absolute delight. For wine enthusiasts, I highly recommend seeking recommendations from Jason. Simply share your preferences with him, and you'll be amazed at the remarkable wines he selects for you. Happy Holidays, F.

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A photo of Wild Mushroom Truffle Soup of a restaurant

Wild Mushroom Truffle Soup

A photo of ½ Wedge Salad of a restaurant

A photo of Peaks Restaurant restaurant

Peaks Restaurant

4.4

4.4 (2618)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Palm Springs

About the restaurant

It is advisable to purchase a boarding pass prior to making reservations. This will facilitate the synchronization of your dinner time with your boarding schedule. Please note that making a reservation does not guarantee the acquisition of a boarding pass. During holiday periods, the tramway may experience wait times of up to two hours.

Peaks Restaurant has been recognized as the world's best cliffside dining establishment, providing a distinctive culinary experience that prioritizes fresh ingredients and a fundamental approach to cuisine. Patrons can enjoy breathtaking views alongside a menu that accommodates a diverse range of tastes. The chef-driven seasonal menus feature natural meats, poultry, fresh seafood, and locally sourced produce from the Coachella Valley. Additionally, the restaurant provides a carefully curated California wine list featuring over 40 selections, as well as local craft draft beers and seasonal craft cocktails prepared with fresh ingredients.

Top review

M

MJ

Dined 1 day ago

Awesome dining experience at Peaks Restaurant located in the mountains via the Aerial Tram! The food was Superb! and the staff was professional and polite! Thanks for a Great Experience! MJ Franklin Wisconsin, USA

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A photo of Steak Sandwich of a restaurant

A photo of Salted Caramel Cheesecake of a restaurant

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

A photo of Filet Mignon of a restaurant

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