Love and sustenance go hand in hand. They nourish the body and soul, fuel our passions, and connect us across generations. For one iconic Palm Springs restaurant, family has always been the main ingredient—and it shows in every bite.
Tucked into the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Las Casuelas Terraza isn’t just a place to eat. It’s a living, breathing story of heritage, hospitality, and home-cooked Mexican food—served with soul for over 45 years.
Rooted in Family Tradition Since 1958
When Patrick Service, current operator of Las Casuelas Terraza, pauses mid-conversation to make sure his wife gets her lunch, it’s more than just a sweet gesture—it’s a glimpse into the heartbeat of the restaurant itself.
“I’m a townie,” he says proudly. “I was here on day one of my life. My grandparents, Maria and Florencio Delgado, moved to Palm Springs more than 60 years ago and opened the Original Las Casuelas in 1958.”
But the recipes date back even further—four generations, in fact.
“In pre-Depression Arizona—places like Globe and Jerome—my great-grandmother cooked for copper miners in a boarding house. She was a single mom with, I want to say, eight kids. These aren’t the fancy molés of Mexico City. These are hearty, comforting, family recipes meant to fill bellies and warm spirits. It’s the definition of comfort food for us.”
A Taste of Yesterday, Served Fresh Today
Many restaurants talk about honoring heritage—but Las Casuelas Terraza lives it daily.
“The recipes haven’t changed in over 100 years,” Patrick says. “We’ve added some new items over the years, but our core dishes are the same ones I remember from childhood. Every bite takes me back to holidays at my grandparents’ house. That’s the magic of it.”
The restaurant’s vibe—colorful tilework, bubbling fountains, twinkling lights, and live music on the patio—feels like an extension of the Delgado family living room. It's one reason why Las Casuelas Terraza remains one of the most beloved and longest-running restaurants in Palm Springs.
Built on a Risk, Blossomed into a Landmark
Opening Las Casuelas Terraza in 1979 was no easy feat. Patrick recalls the skepticism that surrounded his parents, Patty and Rick.
“This part of downtown was considered a dead zone. Everyone said, ‘You’ll never make it that far south.’ But they saw potential.”
The restaurant began as a modest Spanish casita from the 1920s, once used as a real estate office under then-mayor Frank Bogert. With vision and perseverance, the family transformed it into the desert’s first large-scale patio dining experience, just days before a rare snowfall blanketed Palm Springs.
Yes, snow in Palm Springs.
“People went from saying, ‘You can’t have patio dining—it’s too hot!’ to ‘Oh my gosh, there’s snow!’ It was wild.”
The gamble paid off. Today, Las Casuelas Terraza anchors a bustling restaurant district and remains a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
Menu Must-Tries: Chile Colorado and More
When it comes to the food, Patrick doesn’t hesitate to share his favorites.
“Anything with our Chile Colorado. It’s rich, full of flavor, but light on the tongue. That’s my go-to.”
Fan favorites also include:
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Chimichangas – crispy, golden, and packed with seasoned meats and cheeses
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Street-style tacos – simple, satisfying, and crave-worthy
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Enchiladas Rancheras – smothered in traditional red chile sauce
Pair it all with a house-made margarita, fresh chips, and guacamole, and you’ve got yourself a quintessential Palm Springs experience.
Powered by People, Fueled by Community
A restaurant is only as strong as its team—and Las Casuelas Terraza is powered by decades of dedication.
“Our staff is amazing. Many have been with us for years. They’re proud of what we do here, and that pride shows in every plate.”
That local love extends both ways.
“Palm Springs has supported us so well,” says Patrick. “Even as tourism grows, this is still a small-town community at heart. Locals are our biggest ambassadors, and we’re deeply grateful for their support. You’ll always find familiar faces here—especially in the summer.”
More Than a Meal—A Place to Belong
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, catching up with friends, or just looking for a killer margarita under the stars, Las Casuelas Terraza offers more than just a meal. It’s a place where heritage is honored, stories are shared, and everyone is treated like family.
So come hungry. Come curious. Come ready to make memories—just like generations of Palm Springs locals have done since 1958.
We'll save you a seat on the patio, come rain, shine... or even snow.
Las Casuelas Terraza
222 S. Palm Canyon Drive
📞 (760) 325-2794
