Explore global cuisine without leaving the desert.

From the streets of Paris to the shores of Tokyo, you don’t need a plane ticket to experience global flavors—just head to Palm Springs. The desert’s ever-growing collection of international restaurants is a paradise for foodies, with authentic cuisines brought to life by chefs from around the world.

Whether you’re craving schnitzel, ceviche, or sushi, here’s your culinary guide to international dining in Palm Springs—organized by country, curated for flavor chasers.

Austrian Cuisine

Johannes Restaurant – Modern European with a Schnitzel Focus

Austrian-born Chef Johannes Bacher, “The Eclectic Chef,” presents a full schnitzel menu ranging from “Mama’s Schnitzel” to Caper‑Lemon. Venture beyond schnitzel with dishes like Seared Icelandic Salmon and a Wine Spectator–commended list. Make a reservation.

Learn more: Johannes Palm Springs: Autrian-Asian Fare, Reimagined

chef Johannes Bacher of palm springs 

Brazil

Churrasco Brazilian Steakhouse - Authentic Rodízio Dining

Experience 17 cuts of meat served tableside in the traditional rodízio style. Plus, a salad bar with Brazilian staples. Great for groups or celebrations.

French Restaurants

L’Atelier Café - Parisian Bistro Charm

Run by Angelique and Christophe Robin—formerly of Biarritz—this French café serves up escargots, croque monsieur, and Grand Ma Apple Cake in charming Parisian style. Their “Esther Platter,” named for Christophe’s grandmother, brings a taste of the French Southwest to Palm Springs mornings.

Le Vallauris – Refined French-Mediterranean Cuisine

Jean-Paul Lair helms an elegant experience set in a historic villa, Le Vallauris, and specializes in luxurious French-Mediterranean fare with impeccable service.

Le Vallauris patio

Pomme Frite – French-Belgian Bistro Favorite

Owners Jean-Claude Constant and late Chef Nicholas Klontz brought Belgian‑style mussels (10 ways!), pommes frites, and Flemish beef stew to Palm Springs since 1999.

Pomme Frite palm springs

Peninsula Pastries – Authentic French Bakery

This South Palm Canyon gem is the real deal. Owned by Parisian pastry chef Christophe Meyer and his wife Helene, everything here—from the kouign amann to the baguettes—is made using imported French flour and AOP butter. It’s like stepping into a boulangerie on the Champs-Élysées.

Freddie's Kitchen - Charming French-Influenced Dining

This quaint, hidden gem offers pastries, quiches, and savory specials with a French twist—a perfect stop for dinner in a cozy atmosphere.

Farm Palm Springs – Provençal Cuisine in a Garden Setting

With a menu inspired by southern France, FARM offers brunch and prix fixe dinners that transport you to Provence: ratatouille, baked Brie, and pear salad under the bougainvillea.

Farm Palm Springs

Hungarian & Eastern European Cuisine

Miro’s - Balkan & Hungarian Favorites 

Transport your palate to the Balkans at Miro’s, serving up hearty European classics like Hungarian goulash, schnitzel, and grilled lamb. The warm, family-run atmosphere gives it that authentic Eastern European feel.

miro's patio seating

Italian Restaurants

Il Giardino - Romantic Italian Dining in  the Desert

One of Palm Springs’ best-kept secrets for authentic Italian cuisine, Il Giardino transports you to Tuscany with its elegant garden setting, homemade pastas, and classic dishes like veal saltimbocca and tiramisu. The romantic patio and attentive service make it feel like a candlelit dinner in Florence.

Learn moreIl Giardino: Savor Authentic Italian Flavors at this Hidden Gem

Johnny Costa’s Ristorante – A Palm Springs Classic 

Cozy Italian eatery offering Tuscan- and Neapolitan-style dishes and house-baked pizza.

Italian dishes at Johnny Costa's

Palmina by Puglia Italian Restaurant - Southern Italian Coastal Cuisine

Focused on the bold, rustic flavors of Italy’s Puglia region. Expect fresh seafood, orecchiette pasta, and regional wines in an inviting Mediterranean-style space.

Al dente Trattoria - Traditional Italian Comfort Food

Known for its relaxed atmosphere and generous portions, Al dente serves hearty pasta, classic meat dishes, and tiramisu that keeps locals coming back.

Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill - Italian with a Palm Springs Twist

A favorite for live music and patio dining, Sammy G’s blends Tuscan-style dishes with California flair—don’t miss their lobster ravioli or veal Milanese.

sammy g's patio

Il Corso - Sliik, Contemporary Italian Dining

A stylish downtown spot offering modern Italian cuisine and craft cocktails in a cosmopolitan setting. Known for house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas.

Spaghetteria - Quick, Authentic Pasta on the Go

For casual diners, this fast-casual gem offers build-your-own pasta dishes and classic Italian sauces in a fun, easygoing atmosphere.

Kalura Trattoria - Siscilina-Influenced Cuisine

Located in the La Plaza area, Kalura offers Sicilian specialties, seafood risotto, and stunning rooftop views in a relaxed and romantic setting.

Authentic Mexican Food

El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana – Regional Flavors from Michoacan 

Family-run favorite offering traditional Michoacán dishes, signature margaritas, and bold colors in a lively indoor-outdoor setting.

Las Casuelas Terraza - Historic Mexican Dining Downtown

Serving the Palm Springs community for generations, Las Casuelas offers Mexican classics, mariachi nights, and margaritas in a festive courtyard.

Learn more: Las Casuelas Terraza: A Legacy of Family and Mexican Flavor

People eating at the las casuelas patio in downtown palm springs

Tac/Quila - Modern Mexican Vibes & Craft Cocktails

Upscale, modern vibes with elevated tacos, house-made salsas, and an extensive tequila list. A stylish, social hotspot.

Blue Coyote Grill - Southwestern-Mexican Fusion in a Garden Oasis

This lively restaurant blends bold Mexican flavors with a touch of the American Southwest—plus a tropical patio with waterfalls.

Loco Charlie's Mexican Grill - Fast-Casual & Flavor-Packed

A go-to for locals craving burritos, tacos, and fresh salsas. Known for fast service and generous portions.

Maracas Mexican Cantina & Grill - Vibrant Eat & Street Tacos

Located on Palm Canyon Drive, Maracas serves up tequila flights, fajitas, and festive vibes in the heart of downtown.

Savory Mexican food served up on a blue background

El Taco Asado - Hole-in-the-Wall Favorite

A casual counter-service spot serving some of the best street-style tacos, carne asada, and burritos in town.

Felipe's Palm Springs - Homey, No-Fuss Mexican Comfort Food

Longtime locals swear by Felipe’s enchiladas, menudo, and tamales. Expect hearty portions and family-style hospitality.

Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian Fuego - The Desert's Best Peruvian Food

A cozy and highly rated spot serving ceviche, lomo saltado, tallarines, churros, and Pisco sours. Authentic flavors, great value, and friendly service.

ReformaModern Peruvian Flair in a Swanky Setting

One of the desert’s newest culinary standouts, Reforma blends Peruvian influences with bold Latin flavors. Ceviches, grilled meats, and craft cocktails are served in a sleek, design-forward atmosphere with a vibrant bar and late-night energy.

Reforma lomo saltado

Thailand

Thai Smile – Classic Thai

Offering bold, herb-forward dishes like pad Thai and green curry in a casual, centrally located setting.

Peppers Thai – A Local Favorite

Reliable and authentic, this off-the-beaten-path Thai eatery is known for flavorful curries and friendly service.

Thai food dish at peppers thai

Vietnam

Rooster and the Pig - Modern Vietnamese-American Fusion

For a taste of Vietnam, head to this local favorite known for modern Vietnamese-American dishes like crispy rice cakes and caramelized pork belly. The intimate space and community vibe make it feel like a hidden street-side gem in Hanoi.

533 Viet Fusion – Vietnamese Fusion with a Modern Twist

Features a blend of Vietnamese flavors with French technique, plus vegan options and fresh rolls in an airy, stylish space.

Fuzion Five Casual Vietnamese and Asian 

Friendly, laid-back spot known for pho, bún bowls, and Asian fusion dishes made with fresh ingredients.

Fuzion Five dish

Japanese Restaurants

Taka Shin Japanese Cuisine - Traditional Japanese Cuisine & Omakase Experience

Small, intimate restaurant offering refined nigiri, rolls, and omakase by Chef Shinji Kokubo.

Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey - Sushi Meets Scandinavian design

Elegant sushi bar with an extensive Japanese whisky menu. Try the Hamachi Crudo or Chef’s Omakase experience.

sandfish

No Passport Required

Palm Springs has quietly become a world-class culinary destination. Thanks to international chefs who now call the desert home, you can savor authentic dishes from across the globe, without leaving the city limits.

For foodies and curious travelers alike, Palm Springs is your next great taste adventure.

 

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