If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What’s for dinner?” and wished the answer could be something unforgettable, PS Underground is the Palm Springs experience you’ve been craving. More than a restaurant, it is dinner theater, sensory immersion, community gathering, and culinary adventure — all wrapped into one secretive, constantly transforming event.
Since debuting as a humble pop-up nearly a decade ago, PS Underground has evolved into one of the most distinctive dining experiences in Greater Palm Springs, captivating locals and visitors alike with its mix of creative cuisine, storytelling, live entertainment, and surprise.
A Dining Experience Built on Connection
“There are very few places where you can go and truly connect with people,” explains PS Underground co-founder and creative visionary Michael Fietsam. “You can go to a bar or nightclub, but you usually stay with your own little pod. We wanted to create an environment where strangers become friends.”
The result? A dinner where your tablemates are part of the evening’s unfolding narrative, crafted with intention.
The Secret Ingredient: Intrigue
PS Underground is famous for mystery. Their website hints at the theme, but never reveals everything. You won’t see a menu in advance, because the surprise is part of the story.
Events typically feature:
- Four- to ten-course menus, depending on brunch, dinner, or seasonal show
- Themes ranging from whimsical to emotional to avant-garde
- Guests encouraged to dress for the theme (when applicable)
- A communal table, ensuring a shared experience
- Full dietary accommodation with advance notice
As Fietsam puts it: “It’s a little bit intrigue, a lot of creativity, and a whole lot of fun.”
From Humble Beginnings to a Palm Springs Institution
What started nine years ago as a dinner among friends has become one of the region’s most talked-about culinary arts concepts.
Michael and his partner, David Horgen, began hosting pop-ups in:
- Warehouses
- Art galleries
- Private gardens
- Rooftops
- And, occasionally, secret locations are only revealed upon booking
As demand grew, PS Underground established a dedicated venue in Palm Springs, giving guests a consistent, comfortable home base while still allowing the shows to evolve.
Since then, they’ve created 170+ original themed experiences, including:
- Bodacious Bingo – a wild night where dinner meets zany performance
- LIGHT – an avant-garde, choreographed multisensory show using projection mapping, soundscapes, and timed illumination
- Diva!, Rhapsody, Masquerade, Villains, Broadway Brunch, and holiday spectaculars
- Seasonal shows such as Halloween “Dark Dinners” or holiday feasts with live carolers
Many themes now rotate seasonally because fans ask for encores.
Art + Cuisine + Performance
PS Underground is not just a meal, it is performance art.
Crafted Cocktails & Welcome Interactions
Most evenings begin with a themed cocktail or signature drink pairing. Guests mingle during a welcome reception, easing into the story before the show begins.
Live Music & Immersive Theater
Shows may include:
- Spotlight musical numbers
- Ensemble performances
- Interactive moments
- Dramatic storytelling
- Surprise “actors” at the table
- Projection-based scenic worlds
A Smell DJ (Yes, Really)
One of their most unique touches is the “smell DJ”, who toasts herbs or spices that correspond to each course, adding scent as a sensory layer to the experience.
Tactile, Hands-On Moments
From candlelit sing-alongs to theatrical reveals, the audience becomes part of the production.
Expect to Be Wowed
Some events sell out within minutes. PS Underground has become so beloved that locals and returning visitors plan trips around new shows.
“We’ve heard of people who made long-lasting friendships and even business connections from sitting together at our tables,” says Fietsam.
The team also gives back by hosting:
- Fundraisers
- Special nonprofit events or reduced-price shows
- Community nights
What Visitors Should Know (Added Value for Today’s Travelers)
Book Early: Shows sell out quickly — often weeks or months in advance, especially holiday shows, Broadway brunches, and limited-run themes.
Every Show Is Different: Even returning guests are surprised; no two dinner themes are the same. Many travelers come back year after year to see what’s new.
It’s Great for Celebrations: Birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, and milestone trips are common. Staff will often help create a memorable moment if they know in advance.
Dietary Needs Are Welcome: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies, and restrictions — all accommodated with advance notice.
It’s Indoor, Year-Round: Their permanent venue is climate-controlled, ensuring comfort year-round.
It’s Perfect for Solo Travelers: PS Underground is one of Palm Springs’ most welcoming spaces for solo travelers.
Book Your Seat at the Table
If you're craving a dining experience that blends culinary artistry with emotion, surprise, and connection, PS Underground is a must-do while visiting Palm Springs.
With constantly evolving themes, exceptional food, immersive theatrics, and a reputation for creating lifelong memories, this is one adventure best experienced while the tickets are still hot.
Book A Show
Purple Room Palm Springs is another dinner club with live entertainment.