Palm Springs has become a haven for food lovers, attracting top chefs and talented culinary minds from all over the world. One of the standout features of the local food scene is the impressive array of authentic Italian eateries that grace the desert landscape. From wood-fired pizzas to creamy pasta and tantalizing appetizers, these Italian spots bring a piece of Italy right to your plate. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these are the must-try Italian restaurants in Palm Springs.
Johnny Costa's Ristorante
Johnny Costa, the founder of Johnny Costa's Ristorante, has been a fixture in the Palm Springs culinary scene since 1976. Born in Naples, Italy, Johnny’s culinary journey took him from New York and Las Vegas to Hollywood, where he worked alongside legendary figures like Frank Sinatra. Sinatra, a frequent guest at the Villa Capri in the 60s, became fond of Johnny's cooking, particularly the steak Sinatra and linguine clams—dishes that remain favorites at Johnny Costa's Ristorante today. Johnny's son, Chef Vince Costa, now carries on the family tradition, preparing these classic dishes with the same passion and expertise as his father.
Johnny Costa's legacy began in Hollywood, where he worked at the iconic Villa Capri before moving to Palm Springs in the early 70s, where he continued to work with Tony Riccio, owner of the famed Club Trinidad. During this time, Palm Springs became a celebrity hotspot frequented by stars like Steve McQueen, Bob Hope, and the Rat Pack. Johnny eventually opened his own restaurant, initially in Desert Hot Springs, and later moved it to Palm Springs, where it continues to serve exceptional Italian cuisine in a nostalgic, romantic setting. The cozy atmosphere, complete with candlelit tables, soft lighting, and classic Italian music, transports diners to a golden era of Hollywood charm.
Check times as they vary.
440 S Palm Canyon Road
Sammy G's Tuscan Grill
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill, located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, offers a delightful dining experience near some of the city’s most charming shops and hotels. Since its opening in 2009, Sammy G’s has become a beloved spot, offering a unique blend of traditional Italian flavors with a California twist. Whether you're stopping by for lunch or dinner, guests can enjoy a menu that features innovative dishes made from the finest ingredients.
For lunch, guests can relax on the beautiful patio, soaking up the gorgeous desert weather while savoring a delicious meal. Alternatively, they can enter the restaurant and be transported to Tuscany with its rustic, charming atmosphere. As the evening arrives, dinner at Sammy G's becomes casual yet elegant, offering a mix of traditional Italian favorites and updated classics. The restaurant also features a semi-private room for family gatherings or business events.
From Thursday to Saturday nights, Sammy G’s Lounge transforms into an energetic yet intimate space where friends can meet, enjoy live music, and dance the night away while sipping on fantastic cocktails.
Enjoy Happy Hour in the Bar: Mon - Fri, 11 am - 6 pm and Sat. & Sun, 3 - 6 pm
Open 11 am - 10 pm daily
265 S Palm Canyon Drive
IL Giardino
Il Giardino offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family or simply stopping by for a cappuccino, glass of wine, or light bite. The menu features a variety of traditional, hand-made Italian dishes, including classic Lasagna and Ravioli, made just like Teresa’s family recipes, and the famous Sicilian Pasta alla Norma. Try the crispy baked sea bass with lemon sauce or the Valdostana Chicken Cutlet served with homemade pesto spaghetti for something special.
Desserts at Il Giardino are a highlight, with weekly off-menu specials, including homemade Sicilian Cassata and traditional tiramisu. Don’t miss the famous cannoli, filled with fresh ricotta cream, crafted by Chef Teresa using authentic Sicilian recipes. Whether you're indulging in a full dinner or a sweet treat, Il Giardino offers an unforgettable Italian dining experience.
Open Mon - Sat., 5 - 9 pm. Closed Sunday.
333 S Indian Canyon Drive
Cipolline Osteria
Cipolline Osteria is a cozy yet refined Italian steakhouse that combines Italy's rich culinary traditions with the art of steak preparation. The restaurant's name, "Cipolline," meaning "small onions" in Italian, reflects the attention to detail and passion for quality ingredients that define every dish. With a menu that blends perfectly seared steaks with classic Italian flavors, guests can savor everything from the signature Bistecca alla Fiorentina to handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The warm, rustic ambiance and elegant design provide a welcoming setting for a memorable dining experience.
Happy Hour: Wed. - Sun., 5 - 6 pm. Rotating menu.
Open Wed. - Sun, 5 - 10 pm. Closed Mon & Tue.
1360 S Palm Canyon Drive
Il Corso
Il Corso offers an authentic dining experience inspired by Tuscany, reflecting Chef Mario Marfia’s heritage, with influences from his father’s Sicilian roots. Known for its homemade pasta and wood-oven pizzas, the menu also features a variety of seafood dishes, such as spaghetti scoglio with clams, mussels, shrimp, and calamari in a spicy tomato sauce, along with tender meat options like chimichurri-topped lamb chops. A house specialty, the roasted leg of veal, is among the nightly specials. The warm ambiance, evoking the charm of Tuscan wood-and-stone farmhouses, and attentive service make it a popular choice for dinner.
Open 4 - 10 pm daily.
111 N Palm Canyon Drive
Palmina by Puglia
Manue flavors of this Italian restaurant originate from the picturesque region of Puglia. They offer a true taste of traditional Italian cuisine paired with exquisite Primitivo wines, delivering an unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant was inspired by the founder's mother's culinary passion and cherished memories of her kitchen, motivating the creation of this flavorful venture to share the rich heritage of Puglian cuisine with the world. At Palmina, Chef Antonelo Zito brings every dish crafted with love, utilizing locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes passed down through generations. From homemade pasta and savory braciola to delightful finger foods that capture the essence of Italy, the menu reflects the heart of Puglian gastronomy.
Open Sun - Thur, 5:30 - 9 pm and Fri & Sat., 5:30 - 9:30 pm.
2500 N Palm Canyon Drive, Suite D2
Riccio's
Since 1979, Riccio's has been a classy yet family-friendly spot for Italian steaks, seafood, and pasta. Established by Richard and Patricia Riccio and now run by their sons, the restaurant offers a unique blend of Italian cuisine and American steakhouse fare. Known for its consistently great food and attentive service, Riccio's remains a staple for both locals and visitors alike.
The menu features a variety of options to suit different tastes, from fresh salads like Caesar salad to flavorful starters such as shrimp scampi and herb-dusted calamari. For pasta lovers, dishes like linguine with clams and fettuccine Alfredo with chicken or shrimp are popular. The steak selection includes tender cuts like filet mignon, ribeye, and New York steak, all served in a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.
Open Mon - Wed., 4 - 9 pm and Thur - Sun., 11 am - 9 pm
495 N Palm Canyon Drive
Kalura Trattoria
Kalura Trattoria offers an authentic taste of Italy, bringing together the finest ingredients and time-honored recipes to create a dining experience like no other. Their menu celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine, from classic pasta dishes to flavorful seafood specialties.
Guests can begin their meal with a variety of antipasti, such as the crispy Calamari Fritti or the Burrata al Salmone, a rich mozzarella pocket filled with mascarpone and smoked salmon. The grilled zucchini bruschetta provides a unique twist for those trying something different. While the pizza selection is sure to delight, the pasta truly stands out. With a wide range of freshly made pasta like rigatoni, ravioli, lasagna, and tortelloni, Kalura Trattoria offers something to satisfy every palate.
The dinner menu also features a selection of seafood, chicken, and veal dishes, ensuring every guest will find something to enjoy at Kalura Trattoria.
Open 5 - 9 pm
124 S Palm Canyon Drive
Birba Palm Springs
Birba offers more than just amazing pizza; it’s a whole vibe. Their signature pies, including combinations like pear and candied walnuts or prosciutto with honey and chili oil, make this one of Palm Springs' premier pizza destinations. All pasta is homemade. Enjoy your meal in the charming Mediterranean-style garden or under the stars on their al fresco patio.
Open 5 - 10 pm daily
622 N Palm Canyon Drive
Al dente Trattoria
This restaurant has served Palm Springs for over 30 years and offers a diverse menu featuring Italian-inspired dishes. For starters, guests can enjoy fresh salads like the Mista Italiana or Tricolore, along with appetizers such as house-made beef meatballs, burrata with arugula and tomato, or thinly sliced beef carpaccio. Soups like Minestrone, Pasta e Fagioli, and Cacciucco, a seafood stew, are also available.
The main courses include a variety of risottos, pastas, and entrees. Risotto options like Primavera and Gamberoni with shrimp are popular, while pasta favorites include Aglio e Olio, Bolognese, and Pollo Parmigiana. For entrees, there are delicious options like Pollo Limone Carciofi, grilled New York steak, veal scallopine, and jumbo shrimp. Each entrée is served with roasted rosemary potatoes or spaghetti Aglio e Olio.
Open Sun - Thur, 4 - 9m and Fri & Sat, 4 - 10 pm
491 N Palm Canyon Drive
Mario's Italian Cafe
Mario's Italian Cafés has been a Coachella Valley favorite for over 40 years, starting with founder Mario Del Guidice’s move from Brooklyn to Palm Springs in 1972. Today, with three generations of restaurateurs, Mario’s operates seven award-winning locations, serving classic family recipes. Mario still prepares fresh sauces, sausages, and pastas daily at the Bermuda Dunes location, overseeing all the restaurants.
Mario's stands out for its fresh, homemade pastas like fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti, paired with sauces such as Bolognese, pesto, and Alfredo. The menu also features hand-tossed New York-style pizzas baked in brick ovens. With a warm, family-friendly atmosphere and décor inspired by Italy, Mario’s offers great value, combining pizza-house prices with dinner-house quality.
Open 10:30 am - 9 pm daily.
Located in the Sunrise Place Shopping Center at 175 S Palm Canyon Drive
Sottovoce Cafe
Step into Sottovoce Café at The Shops at 1345 and experience the true essence of Italian hospitality. Helmed by Natalie Silva—whose 20 years in Milan and the Riviera Bordighera’s vibrant restaurant scene have shaped her craft—this charming café brings a touch of Milanese elegance to the heart of Palm Springs.
Natalie’s lifelong passion for inclusive, welcoming spaces shines through every detail. She made history with L’Elephant, Milan’s first above-ground gay bar, setting the stage for a more open and culturally rich community—an ethos she now brings to Sottovoce.
Sip from an extensive drink menu featuring artisan coffees, fine teas, refreshing spritzers, and curated wines. For something savory, try a signature panini like the Cops & Robbers, stacked with turkey, fontina, tomatoes, and pesto. Vegan-friendly options are available, such as fresh salads with smoked salmon, organic chicken, or tuna.
Cap off your visit with a sweet treat—lemon bars, airy macarons, key lime pie, or decadent coconut cake.
Open Fri – Wed: 7 am – 6 pm
Thurs: 7 am – 7 pm (Open late for VillageFest)
Located in The Shops at 1345, 1345 N Palm Canyon Drive
Spaghetteria is a cozy spot offering some of the best homemade pasta and lasagna in town. With hearty portions and rich flavors, their dishes are comfort food at its finest. The warm, inviting ambiance of this family-friendly restaurant makes it an excellent place to enjoy a meal with loved ones.
Open noon - 8 pm daily.
Located in the Sun Center at 611 S Palm Canyon Drive
Pizza
Giuseppe's Pizzeria
At Giuseppe’s Pizzeria, they take great pride in serving authentic Chicago-inspired Italian dishes crafted with only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Each dish is bursting with flavor, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Guests can choose from a variety of expertly prepared pizzas, including options on a crispy hand-tossed crust or the iconic Chicago-style deep dish. For those not in the mood for pizza, the extensive menu also features freshly made pasta and Italian-inspired house specialties designed to satisfy any craving. The full bar offers a selection of local craft brews and a well-curated list of Italian and Old World wines. And, of course, there's always room for dessert to cap off a delicious meal.
Open Sun - Thur., 4 - 9 pm and Fri & Sat., 4 - 9:30 pm
Located in the Smoke Tree Village at 1775 E Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 410
Bill's Pizza
At this pizzeria, guests can create their own custom pizzas at an affordable price, choosing from 22 unique creations or mixing and matching their favorite ingredients. The menu features only the finest ingredients, including imported Italian pizza flour, extra virgin olive oil, and sourdough pizza crust made fresh daily with a low glycemic index.
The pizzas are topped with Schreiner’s custom-made sausage, made from lean pork shoulder without nitrates, and fresh vegetables roasted in extra virgin olive oil. Each pizza is served on a crust saver to ensure the highest quality, and all pies are baked in gas-fired brick ovens, providing an authentic and flavorful experience.
Happy Hour every Monday with cheap drinks with your food purchase.
Open Sun - Thur, 11 am - 9 pm and Sat & Sun, 11 am - 10 pm
Located in La Plaza at 119 N Indian Canyon Drive
NYPD Pizza & Bar
For those craving a delicious slice of New York-style pizza, NYPS Pizza & Bar is the place to be. Their thin-crust pizza is perfect for a quick meal or a laid-back dining experience. All the veggies are fresh, and the dough is made on the premises daily. They also offer a full bar with excellent cocktails to pair with your pizza.
Happy Hour for beer specials is Mon - Fri., 4 - 7 pm.
Open 10 am - 2 pm daily.
260 N Palm Canyon Drive
Italian Deli
Real Italian Deli
Looking to take a bit of Italy home with you? Head to the Real Italian Deli for house-cured meats, fresh mozzarella, and gourmet olive oils. Perfect for picking up some Italian delicacies to enjoy at home or bring to a picnic. They also have outdoor seating.
Check hours as they vary.
100 S Sunrise Way, Suite B
Starlight Lounge
Circa 59
Palm Greens Cafe