As the saying goes, you are what you eat—and if you’re lucky enough to eat at Zin American Bistro in downtown Palm Springs, then you’re a tantalizing blend of elevated comfort food, locally sourced ingredients, and bold, worldly flavors. It’s a menu as vibrant and multifaceted as its longtime owner and Wine Director, Mindy Reed.
“When people ask who I am, I have a horrible habit of responding, ‘Oh, I’m Mindy from Zin.’ It’s become a huge part of my identity,” Reed laughs. “There are times I almost forget that my actual name is not ‘Mindy from Zin.’”
Since opening Zin American Bistro in May 2004, Reed has cultivated a loyal following of locals, foodies, and in-the-know visitors who seek exceptional dining in a warm, sophisticated setting. Nestled along bustling South Palm Canyon Drive, Zin is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cornerstone of Palm Springs’ downtown culinary scene.
Owner and Wine Director Mindy Reed; Photo by Gregg Felsen
From Nightclub Gigs to Wine List Royalty
Mindy’s journey to restaurateur wasn’t a straight line. Like many Palm Springs transplants, her arrival was driven by family—and necessity. “I moved here so I could watch my kids during the day and work nights,” she explains. One of her first jobs was opening Chillers Nightclub, with shifts starting late in the evening.
Exhausting? Sure. But Reed’s unstoppable energy soon found its true outlet in the kitchen and on the floor of her own restaurant. “We’re really an American restaurant with French influences,” she says, describing the menu as a combination of classic technique and playful creativity.
Must-Try Menu Favorites at Zin American Bistro
Zin's menu changes seasonally and is driven by quality, freshness, and just enough flair to keep things exciting. Signature favorites include:
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Fried Blue Cheese Olives – A crave-worthy appetizer that perfectly balances crispy and creamy.
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Zin Bites – A clever take on Beef Wellington: filet mignon, puff pastry, goat cheese, and a rich Zinfandel shallot reduction.
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Burrata Salad – Creamy burrata paired with seasonal produce for a light yet indulgent starter.
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Duck Breast, Pan-Seared Scallops, and Osso Buco – Entrées that showcase Zin’s range of flavors and attention to detail.
And don’t forget dessert. Zin's house-made chocolate truffles and flourless chocolate cake are a must for any sweet tooth.
Award-Winning Wine List at Zin
As Wine Director, Mindy Reed takes the wine program seriously—and it shows. Zin’s curated wine list features over 550 selections, earning it the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 14 consecutive years.
“We have the best prices on wine anywhere in the valley,” says Reed. “You can get Dom Perignon for around $150—it’s just unbeatable.”
Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a true oenophile, Zin offers a pairing that enhances every plate and pleases every palate.
A Local Favorite with Heart
While Zin American Bistro is a must-visit restaurant for tourists, it was built with the community in mind. “I opened right after the season ended on Memorial Day weekend,” Mindy recalls. “The goal was to win over the locals—and they’ve been supporting us ever since.”
That support is mutual. Reed is deeply involved in giving back, participating in Dining Out for Life every year and completing the AIDS/LifeCycle ride five times, raising over $45,000 for HIV research.
“Giving back to the community you’re in is not just the right thing to do—it makes everything more meaningful,” she says.
A Beloved Downtown Palm Springs Destination
In a town known for retro flair, spa resorts, and midcentury style, Zin American Bistro stands out as one of Palm Springs’ best restaurants—a place where locals and visitors alike gather for unforgettable meals, perfectly paired wines, and the warm hospitality of “Mindy from Zin.”
“I never in a million years dreamed that I would have the restaurant this long, but it feels like home,” Reed says with pride. “And I love sharing that feeling with every guest who walks through the door.”
Make a Reservation at Zin American Bistro Today
198 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA
📞 760.322.6300
zinamericanbistro.com (online reservations available)
