A Complete Local Guide
Palm Springs has one of Southern California’s most vibrant Mexican food scenes, shaped by generations of local families, desert agriculture, cross-border influences, and a modern wave of chefs redefining regional cuisine. From classic downtown institutions and late-night taco counters to elevated kitchens exploring Baja seafood and contemporary Mexican flavors, the city offers an impressive range of styles and experiences.
This guide brings together the essential Mexican restaurants in Palm Springs, organized by style, vibe, and culinary focus—so visitors can easily find the right spot for tacos, cocktails, date nights, group dinners, or authentic comfort food.
(All restaurants below link to individual profile pages for hours, locations, and details.)
Palm Springs Mexican Food Styles You’ll Find
Before diving in, it helps to know what makes the local scene special:
- Traditional & family-owned kitchens preserving long-standing recipes
- Sonoran & interior Mexican influences (slow-simmered meats, handmade tortillas, hearty plates)
- Baja & coastal flavors (ceviches, aguachiles, seafood tacos)
- Modern Mexican & chef-driven concepts blending regional roots with contemporary techniques
- Casual taquerias & street-style counters perfect for quick, flavor-forward meals
Classic & Traditional Mexican Restaurants
These are the places that built Palm Springs’ reputation—longtime favorites rooted in family recipes, comforting plates, and approachable menus.
Las Casuelas
A downtown landmark for decades, Las Casuelas is known for sizzling fajitas, combination plates, house margaritas, and classic recipes that reflect interior Mexican traditions. Expect enchiladas, chile rellenos, carne asada, and festive dining that works equally well for families, groups, and celebrations.
Learn More: Las Casuelas Terraza: A Legacy of Family and Mexican Flavor
El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana
A Palm Springs staple celebrated for its refined take on traditional dishes. El Mirasol's menu features carefully prepared classics like mole, carnitas, seafood plates, and premium margaritas. It’s often a go-to for visitors seeking an elevated yet approachable Mexican dining experience, with a large outdoor patio.
Felipe’s Palm Springs
Warm, welcoming, and rooted in heritage, Felipe’s serves comfort-forward Mexican favorites alongside seafood plates and house specialties. It’s a strong choice for guests looking for a relaxed environment and a broad menu that reflects both inland and coastal influences. Located by the Palm Springs International Airport for those looking for a bite before their flight.
Casa Blanca
A traditional option offering a wide range of well-known Mexican plates, from tacos and enchiladas to combination platters and seafood dishes. Casa Blanca fits squarely in the “no-frills, satisfying classics” category. Located downtown in La Plaza on Palm Canyon.
El Patio
A sister Mexican restaurant to Felipe's in downtown, El Patio is known for generous portions, classic combos, and longtime local loyalty. Expect familiar favorites, house salsas, and a casual atmosphere ideal for lunch stops and easy dinners.
Taquerias & Casual Mexican Favorites
For tacos, quick bites, and flavor-driven casual dining, these spots deliver consistency, value, and personality.
El Taco Asado
A go-to for grilled meats, street-style tacos, burritos, and late-night cravings. El Taco Asado is known for bold flavors and straightforward menus focused on tacos, carne asada, al pastor, and house salsas. Very casual and family-friendly.
Tlaquepaque Taqueria
Specializing in traditional street-style tacos and quick plates, Tlaquepaque channels the taqueria culture of central Mexico. Handmade tortillas, classic fillings, and approachable pricing make it a favorite among locals and the Mexican community.
La Bonita’s
A beloved casual option known for tacos, burritos, and hearty plates. La Bonita's is often praised for generous portions and authentic preparation rooted in everyday Mexican comfort food. Cozy, casual, and friendly.
Sancho’s
Colorful, laid-back, and casual, Sancho’s blends taco shop energy with sit-down comfort. Expect tacos, combination plates, and approachable classics ideal for relaxed meals. Located at the iconic Caliente Tropics Resort in Palm Springs.
Learn More: Dining & Drinks at Caliente Tropics
Baja, Seafood & Coastal Mexican Influences
Palm Springs’ proximity to Baja California and the Sea of Cortez is evident in its seafood-forward kitchens.
Crudo Cevicheria
Crudo Cevicheria offers a modern ceviche bar highlighting Baja-style seafood preparations. The menu focuses on fresh fish, citrus, aguachiles, tostadas, and light, bright coastal flavors perfect for warm desert days.
Low Desert | Modern Mexican
Inspired by Mexico's street food culture, Low Desert draws inspiration from Sonora and Baja. Expect mesquite-grilled meats, seafood plates, house tortillas, and a menu built around regional techniques and high-quality ingredients. Located in Smoke Tree Village in South Palm Springs.
Maleza
Maleza offers a refined, contemporary approach to Mexican cooking, often incorporating seasonal produce and coastal influence. Its plates tend to balance tradition with modern presentation, appealing to diners looking for something creative yet rooted. Indoor and poolside seating at The Drift Hotel.
Modern Mexican Kitchens & Creative Concepts
These restaurants reinterpret Mexican cuisine through craft cocktails, regional storytelling, and inventive menus.
Clandestino
Clandestino is a contemporary Mexican restaurant known for bold flavors, creative plating, and a vibrant bar program. The menu often reflects regional techniques presented through a modern lens. The spacious European-inspired outdoor patio provides the perfect al fresco setting for sunset dining,
El Jefe Desert Cantino
A lively favorite combining Mexican-inspired plates with an energetic nightlife feel. El Jefe is often chosen for group dining, cocktails, and social evenings. Located at The Saguaro Palm Springs. Check out their Taco Tuesday and Happy Hour.
Best Hotel Restaurants and Bars to Try in Palm Springs
El Patrón Palm Springs
A mBaja-inspired menu featuring tacos, shareable plates, and a strong cocktail presence. El Patrón Palm Springs bridges casual dining and nightlife culture. They are also family-friendly, offering a kids' menu. It's adjacent to the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel.
Tac/Quila
A tequila-forward, modern Mexican concept featuring tacos, small plates, and agave-based cocktails. Tax/Quilla blends casual accessibility with a stylish dining atmosphere and is popular for social dining. Owned by the same team behind the popular Farm and Clandestino.
Neighborhood Favorites & Desert Originals
These spots add character and local flavor to the broader Mexican food landscape.
Loco Charlie’s
A quirky, well-loved local favorite known for big flavors, colorful plates, and creative takes on Mexican comfort food. Loco Charlie's is often recommended for its personality as much as its menu. Very casual with indoor and outdoor seating.
Blue Coyote Grill
Blending Mexican and Southwestern influences, Blue Coyote Grill offers a broad menu that includes enchiladas, tacos, seafood plates, and house margaritas in a lively setting. Learn more about their history in Palm Springs: 30 Years of Flavor & Fun at Blue Coyote
Choosing the Right Mexican Restaurant in Palm Springs
Visitors often ask which Mexican restaurant fits their trip. A quick guide:
- For classic, traditional plates: Las Casuelas, El Mirasol, El Patio, Casa Blanca
- For tacos & casual dining: El Taco Asado, Tlaquepaque Taqueria, La Bonita’s, Sancho’s
- For seafood & Baja flavors: Low Desert, Crudo Cevicheria, Maleza
- For modern vibes & cocktails: Tac/Quila, Clandestino, El Jefe
- For local character: Loco Charlie’s, Felipe’s, Blue Coyote Grill
Discover more through our broader Palm Springs Food Lover's Guide
FAQ: Mexican Food in Palm Springs
Is Palm Springs known for Mexican food?
Yes. Palm Springs has a long-standing Mexican culinary presence, influenced by regional Mexican cooking, Baja California seafood, and generations of local family-owned restaurants.
Are there both traditional and modern Mexican restaurants?
Absolutely. Visitors will find everything from classic enchiladas and tamales to chef-driven kitchens focused on regional Mexican cuisine and contemporary interpretations.
Can I find seafood-focused Mexican food in Palm Springs?
Yes. Several restaurants specialize in ceviches, coastal plates, and Baja-inspired dishes.
Are there good casual taco spots?
Palm Springs offers multiple taquerias and casual counters ideal for tacos, burritos, and quick meals.
Do Mexican restaurants in Palm Springs range from casual to upscale?
They do. Options range from quick taco shops to stylish dining rooms and cocktail-driven modern kitchens.
Read More:
Mexican Spice and Everything Nice
