Travel Blog


George The Pot Bellied Pig

February 7th, 2013 ernie Posted in Palm Springs No Comments »

George the Pot Bellied Pig in Palm SpringsThis is George the pot bellied pig. He comes to the Palm Springs street fair every Thursday and many people take pictures of this guy. Just before I took this picture, a group of people sat down beside him for a picture. He was very happy with all of the attention. He oinked happily with pleasure at all of the attention. The Palm Springs street fare takes place every Thursday and thousands of people attend every week. The street is blocked off for 8 to 10 blocks. Both sides are lined with booths of all types. As a result it is a very popular event and well attended.

George The Pot Bellied Pig

There were so many people on this particular night that we could hardly move with everyone browsing and chatting on the street. There are all kinds of food vendors, vegetable vendors, clothing, jewelry and many arts and crafts. As a result there is lots to enjoy in addition to seeing this pot bellied pig. Of course George is there every week enjoying the crowds and having his picture taken.

Subsequently updating this post a few years after it was first written, we sadly have to report that George is not at his usual spot any longer. Perhaps he has gone to hog heaven or perhaps his owner can no longer bring him to the street fair. If anyone knows what happened, please leave us a comment regarding George The Pot Bellied Pig. Hence he was one of the many attractions that come and go at the street fair.

For more things to do in the Palm Springs area, click here.

 

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Marilyn in Palm Springs

February 7th, 2013 ernie Posted in Palm Springs No Comments »

Marilyn in Palm SpringsWhat an outstanding picture of the display of Marilyn Monroe! Marilyn in Palm Springs! This is in downtown Palm Springs and attracting a lot of visitors along with their cameras. Just across the street from Starbucks, you cannot miss Marilyn in that famous striking pose that she is known all over the world for. Everyday, hundreds of tourists pause to have their picture taken with Marilyn. Even tall men or women do not even come up to her knees.

She is apparently 26 feet high, although the writer feels that she is closer to 30 feet high. There have not been many women that have matched her beauty and her figure. She has never been matched either previously or since she came on the scene. There is no actress as beautiful and voluptuous as Marilyn was. She will be well known for many years.

Marilyn in Palm Springs

Unfortunately, Marilyn is no longer in Palm Springs. She was here for a year and they are trying to get her back, but nothing to report just yet.

Since Marilyn was in Palm Springs, they have torn down the old mall and they are in the process of building several new boutique hotels and stores. This is really a major upgrade for Palm Springs and the downtown core. Perhaps there will be Marilyn in Palm Springs once again.

The Palm Springs street fair takes place every Thursday bhttp://gccihome.com/travel/category/palm-springs-california/palm-springs-posts/eginning at 5 pm. We just got back and there are literally thousands of people who go to the street fair every Thursday evening. There are all kinds of cooked foods available, vegetables, dates tomatoes, peanuts and then there is every kind of art works, crafts, jewelry and so on. There seems to be something for everyone.

For more information about the Palm Springs area, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Las Casuelas Nuevo

February 6th, 2013 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Las Casuelas NeuevoWe had lunch with friends at Las Casuelas Nuevo today. They had invited us for lunch and we were happy to accept their offer at this Mexican restaurant. It is actually located in Rancho Mirage and there is a sister restaurant in Palm Springs.

The good was pretty good and the drinks also. We had a fajita and our friends had an enchilada. Both meals were the usual great Mexican food that we love to enjoy. We also enjoyed a grande margarita made from a really good tequila.

Las Casuelas Nuevo

Las Casuelas Neuevo We sat outside on the patio with shade trees to protect us from the sun. This is a really nice quaint restaurant that takes you out of Palm Springs and places you in a small town in Mexico without ever leaving the United States or Palm Springs California. There is lots of character at this location and you are protected from the hot sun as well. With the trees, shade, and mist during the hot months, this is a really great place to spend some time and have a nice Mexican style meal.

Las Casuelas NeuevoAt the entrance, there is this beautiful fountain to welcome you and provide a traffic circle. All in all, not a bad spot to enjoy brunch or dinner. For more information about restaurants in the Palm Springs area, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Palm Springs Kaiser Grill

February 4th, 2013 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Palm Springs Kaiser GrillWe had dinner at the Kaiser Grill again this year in Palm Springs with some friends and as usual the service and meals were excellent. It was on a Saturday evening and the restaurant, in fact all of the area restaurants are very busy. We were fortunate to have a table on the patio close to the sidewalk. We could also people watch as we enjoyed our meals. Around 7pm they turned on the overhead heaters just to take the chill off the night air. These heaters are really great and provide a comfortable environment.

Palm Springs Kaiser Grill

We enjoyed pizza, Caesar salads, penne pasta, grilled salmon and several appetizers. With such a broad order and a busy night, Saturday, all of our food arrived on time and all of it was hot!

In addition it tasted great too! We have never been disappointed by this restaurant. We also enjoy sitting at the bar for happy hour were the prices are reduced. The food is also great. Happy hour is served only at the bar, inside at the high tables and the side patio. The front patio is reserved for patrons who are dining and paying full price. The Palm Springs Kaiser Grill is a great place to dine and we recommend it. As a result we will be going back their soon.

For more Palm Springs Restaurant reviews, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Palm Springs Marilynn

February 4th, 2013 ernie Posted in Palm Springs 1 Comment »

20130204-100543.jpgEver wanted to see Marilyn Monroe ? Well now you can in Palm Springs! Her stay in Palm Springs apparently has been extended to the end of the year for 2013. The Palm Springs council is trying to have Marilyn become a permanent resident of the city. As a result they managed to hold on to her until April of 2014. She was dismantled and shipped to New jersey to be placed on display there. She really adds a great deal to the downtown area. As a result it is one of the most photographed locations in the city. Hence Palm Springs will miss her and we hope they can return her to Palm Springs some day soon.

Palm Springs Marilynn

This image or statue of Marilyn is 26 feet high and shows her in that famous pose holding her dress in place. Thousands of tourists have their pictures taken every day with Marilyn. They only come up to her knees! Day or night she still takes a great picture. As a result both kids and adults are enjoying her stay in Palm Springs.

This one was taken at night with my iPhone 5. Which I think did a great job considering it was so dark.  She was located downtown across the street from Starbucks and beside the old mall. Which is being renovated. There is a new hotel going in and there are more shops and restaurants being added as well. All of this should be completed by the end of 2014 or early 2015. Palm Springs is attempting to revitalize the down town are and create or compete with Palm Desert. In addition they also want to compete with some of the other desert valley towns. This is really considered the ist phase of the development and should greatly improve the city. Returning Palm Springs Marilynn will also add to the cities attractions and bring many people down town to shops and restaurants.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Zen – Palm Springs Restaurant

January 7th, 2013 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Palm Springs RestaurantThe Zen restaurant is in the center of Palm Springs surrounded by other restaurants such as LuLu’s and the Kaiser Grill which we have also written about on this blog.

They have expanded their patio out onto the sidewalk which is covered by the roof so you are still sheltered from the sun and yet have the feeling that you are sitting outside. We sat on one corner and enjoyed our happy hour very much with a couple of beers and several appetizers.  The cutlery is real and there are white table clothes on the tables, so it is really a cut above some of the other restaurants in the area. The waiters are excellent providing very good service as well and we were very pleases by the overall experience.

Zen – Palm Springs Restaurant

The only negative was the price of one of the appetizers which was on one of the happy hour menu items.  We ordered toasted bread with humus as a side for a price of $3.00 . You really do no know what to expect when you are trying something out and we were quite surprised to see a small plate with two small pieces of toasted bread on it with humus spread over these two small pieces of bread. I said to the waiter that this was ridiculous to deliver something so small and charge three dollars. He was embarrassed and nodded agreement and shrugged his shoulders, before walking away. Although there was acknowledgement, there was nothing done to deal with the situation. We paid pour bill and left.

Unfortunately we will not go back to this restaurant because of this although everything else that we had looked great and also what other patrons had as well. We can give this a positive recommendation, however just do not order the toasted bread with humus unless you do not mind the price for a really small appetizer.

Restaurants in the Palm Springs Area

There are many restaurants in the downtown area. Also the surrounding area of Palm Springs in addition to the Zen restaurant to try out. With so many to choose from there is lots of variety and competition as well. Which makes prices and quality excellent. We are slowly trying all of the restaurants in the downtown area and will report on more as we try them.

If you are staying at a motel or condo, near down town, you can walk to everything. Also walk home without the need to worry about drinking and driving. We are fortunate in this regard since we stay two blocks from the downtown area and walk to everything. This is the best way to travel and stay in the Palm Springs area.

Restaurant Happy Hours

Almost all restaurants in the area have a happy hour. They all start around 4 pm and end around 6pm to 7 pm. You have to check with the restaurant you going to for specific hours. Also what is included in their happy hour. Many have reduced prices on selected beers, wine and mixed drinks or well drinks as they are called in the area. Appetizers are also reduced in price as well while some will have special menu’s for happy hour.

Thursday night is when the street fair is held in Palm Springs beginning at 5 pm. This is a great time to take in one of the happy hours. You can watch all of the people who come to the street fair. It is extremely popular with thousands of people attending every Thursday night. It is one of the best times to come to a happy hour at the Zen restaurant. Or one of the others and then go for a walk up and down the street to admire all of the products from the various venders in the area.

For more information about restaurants in the Palm springs area, click here.

 

 

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Ruby’s Diner Palm Springs

September 7th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Ruby's Diner Palm SpringsWe always enjoy going to Ruby’s Diner Palm Springs. This is an old fashion diner with the chrome tables and red leather seats that you used to see back in the ’50s. They even have a small model train, actually, two of them running on separate tracks suspended from the ceiling.

Breakfast is a bottomless cup of coffee and there are many fantastic breakfast meals available. In fact, the meals are often so large that my wife and I will split a meal. I sometimes will order some side dishes to go along with the main meal, but rest assured there is ample food on one plate for two people on most meals.

Ruby’s Diner Palm Springs

We get to save money and we get to manage our waistlines as well by splitting a meal. We talk to a lot of couples throughout our travels and find that many people are doing just that. Ordering one meal and splitting it because of the amount of food they serve. The restaurants do not seem to mind. They are happy to get your business and even will bring an extra plate, sometimes with the meal already split for you. Ruby’s Diner is one of those and if you receive great service like that, make sure you leave a decent tip for the waiter. He or she was thoughtful enough to split it for you so it makes sense to tip them properly.

The Food at Ruby’s Diner Palm Springs

The food they serve is classed as American fast food, with hamburgers,  and many other menu items. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late takeout. We love going there for breakfast and they have a huge menu. Traditional eggs any way you want them, pancakes,  fruit meals, cereal, toast, and bagels. There are lots to chose from and they also provide various combinations of the above. If you cannot find something good to eat at Ruby’s we would be very surprised.

What do Other People Think about Ruby’s Diner

We are obviously very satisfied with Ruby’s, but we were wondering what other people seemed to think about Ruby’s so check on some of the various agencies that provide review ratings and also on Ruby’s site as well. What we found was no surprise. The majority of people going to Ruby’s had great things to say about the food, the service, and the overall experience. We saw a couple of comments from people who received poor service. This is to be expected from time to time. But when over 90% of your ratings are excellent or very good, we can see that they are obviously doing something right.

It Can be Hot in Palm Springs

The sun hits the outside area of Ruby’s Diner in the mornings, so it can get a little hot unless you sit under an umbrella or around the side where you are in the shade. Most mornings in Palm Springs are more than comfortable enough to sit outside and enjoy the scenery. Occasionally it will be cool enough that you need to move inside in the winter months.

When the summer months arrive, actually even in April, sometimes the temperatures require misters to be started. The Picture above shows the misters running on both patios to keep you cool. If you have never experienced this, you should know that it really makes a difference and will keep you cool in the hot temperature weather.

The location of Ruby’s is Perfect

Ruby’s Diner is located at 155 S Palm Canyon Dr, in Palm Spring, California. They are right in the middle of the main street of Palm Springs with ample free parking in the back. You can sit on one of their patios, have dinner and also watch the people strolling by along the sidewalk. On Thursdays, there is the Palm Springs street fair and this is an excellent location to watch the thousands of people strolling along looking at the many vendor’s products available in their booths.

We are great fans of Palm Springs and think that it is one of the best places to spend the winter. There are many snowbirds who spend their winters there from January through to the end of April. The busiest times are February and March. After March 31, it gets warmer and there are fewer people around.

We particularly like the April time period. There are fewer crowds and line ups, less traffic and it is a chance to get to mingle with some of the locals instead of the snowbirds from all over the US and Canada. Either way, breakfast or dinner at Ruby’s is a great deal, good food, inexpensive and great service. We recommend that you try it.

For more information about the Palm Springs area, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Luxury Resorts Palm Springs

June 21st, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs California 2 Comments »

Luxury Resorts Palm SpringsThere are really a lot of luxury resorts in the Palm Springs area that snow birds can visit over the winter, the fall and the spring. They range from exquisitely private hotels and motels to the mega golf resorts that dominate the area. Did you know that there are 115 golf resorts in the area, many that are public and cater to the snow birds that come to the Palm Springs area every year. Many of these resorts are behind gated communities with homes and condos that back onto the golf course. These places are spectacular and you may need to be invited before you can play at some of these courses.

Luxury Resorts Palm Springs

Palm Springs has a great deal to offer the snowbird regardless of whether you golf or not.  There are of course the luxury resorts in the Palm Springs area with fantastic pools and tropical surroundings. These luxury resorts in  Palm Springs will cater to all of your needs with happy hour bars and fantastic restaurants that will cater to your every taste.

With so much to do in the Palm Springs area, it is a wonder that the luxury resorts in  Palm Springs are able to do a lot of business. Many people will opt for lower cost motels and hotels leaving valuable funds available for many other activities.

List of things to do in Palm Springs

here is a broad list of things to do in the area, some which will cost money while others are entirely free.

  • Golf at one of the 115 courses in the area
  • Play at one of the 10 or more casinos in the area
  • Dine at one of the hundreds of restaurants in the Palm Springs and surrounding area
  • Hike on one of the many hiking trails
  • Go biking around the area on the bike trails that dominate the area
  • Visit one of the many happy hours that are available
  • Swim in the pool at one of the  luxury resorts in  Palm Springs
  • Play tennis at one of the luxury resorts in  Palm Springs
  • Shopping at El Paseo
  • Shopping at the Cabazon outlet malls
  • and more and more

If you have not caught the message by now, we really endorse the Palm Springs area because there is so much to do in the area, the weather is fantastic and we love the outdoor desert environment.

Great Place for Snow Birds

If you do not really believe this post or perhaps you think that is is just blatant adverting for the Palm Springs area, think again. We are snowbirds and really love the area and plan to spend a lot of time here as we enjoy the overall environment. In fact, we would prefer that people stay away from the area so that it does not get really crowded. it is not crowded at the moment, although business is picking up.

Check out Palm Springs and some of the other desert communities in the area and come here for a week or even a month to get to know the area and all that it has to offer as well as the luxury resorts in  Palm Springs.

For a list of more things to do in the Palm Springs area, click here.

 

 

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Pablo Visits Palm Springs California

June 7th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs California 2 Comments »

Visits Palm Springs CaliforniaWell we have spent 2 months in Palm Springs California and I have to say that it is one of the nicest places on earth to spend a vacation or to live. Sure it is hot, particularly in the summer and they do have earthquakes and the odd desert fire, but other than that is  a really great place to live or to spend the winter. We stay within 3 blocks of downtown and can walk to many restaurants and bars in the downtown area. Marilyn’s statue was installed this year and will remain here for a year before it goes to Japan. This statue is 30 feet tall and is in downtown Palm Springs.

We are sad to leave Palm Springs, however it is time for us to head north and avoid the really hot weather in Palm springs. We had a taste of what the summers are like for a few days in Palm Springs. The temperatures hit 107F for a few days. for those of you prefer Celsius, that is 43C. Either way it is pretty hot. For me, anything in the 90’s is just about perfect.

Palm Springs California

Imagine a lifestyle of biking in the cool mornings, going for a swim in the mid morning, going for a coffee at one of the local coffee shops and then have lunch and then back to the pool in the afternoon! Around 5pm, we have happy hour on the patio and then supper in the warm evening. Life cannot get any better than that. That is what we love about Palm springs , California.

Sometimes we go out to one of the many happy hours that are available at some of the restaurants in the area. Usually it is inexpensive beer and half price on appetizers, many of which are really great.

We have spent the months of March and April here and frankly we really do not want to leave, however we have no choice. Our lease is up and also our family misses us. It is time to head home to Canada and say good-bye for another year.

Things to do in Palm Springs

This year I have spent my time doing some of the following things here in the Palm Springs area:

  • Hiking on the many trails in the desert and the mountains
  • Biking around the area on various bike trails
  • Swimming, first time I have swum a kilometer in the pool
  • Going to happy hours at local restaurants
  • Playing tennis
  • Writing posts on my website
  • Lounging by the pool
  • A bit of gambling at one of the many casinos
  • And just generally enjoying ourselves

We also headed over to Las Vegas for a weekend to enjoy the Vegas night life. There is so much to do here that it is really impossible to be bored or not have something to do. The main thing is that it is really a healthy life style and this is the point of this entire post, believe it or not.

With so much to do in the Palm Springs area it is also impossible to not be healthy and live in Palm Springs.  We like to do all of these things and although we do not lose any weight, we are in much better shape when we leave than when we first arrived.

If you have never been to Palm Springs, check out the following link to appreciate all that Palm Springs has to offer. This is one of the many restaurants that we have reviewed in Palm Springs.

For more things to do in Palm Springs, click here,

 

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Spa Casino Buffet Palm Springs

April 21st, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 1 Comment »

Spa Casino Buffet Palm SpringsThe Spa Casino Buffet in Palm Springs is just not as good as many other buffets we have been to in other casinos and it certainly does not measure up to many of the other restaurants that are in Palm springs for the price.

We have not been to the buffet in a few years. We were surprised to find out that the price was $23.99 plus tax, less 10% if you have a slot card. This is on Saturday nights when they have their seafood buffet. We went for the crab legs and we were very disappointed. The crab legs were very small, filled with water and they had a fish smell to them. They just did not measure up at all.

Spa Casino Buffet Palm Springs – Other Items

The other items that were part of the seafood buffet at the Spa Casino in Palm Springs were fried calamari. They were over cooked and tiny shrimp. This was just not good , you expect much more for the price that you are paying, especially when they advertise their seafood buffet.

The remaining items were ok, although we did find that the desserts were quite small, which is ok, you can always take more if you are that hungry. We also were surprised when we were told that we had to get our own drinks. You can have as much as you want , just get your own! This is the first time we have seen this in any casino. It looks to us as if they are really trying to cut down on cost.

Hours for the Buffet

The buffet is also closed some nights. If you are planning to go during the week, check first to make sure that it is open. Also as a final note, if you are going to spend $50 on a meal for two, why not go to a nice restaurant were you are served and have something your really enjoy. We will not be back to the Spa Casino buffet.

If you have been there and would like to leave a comment please do. We have spoken with other patrons, unfortunately for us after the fact and found that they felt the same as we did. For more posts about Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Wangs in the Desert Palm Springs

April 14th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 2 Comments »

Wangs in the Desert is another restaurant that we have been to several times for happy hour as well as for Wangs in the Desert Palm Springsdinner in the main restaurant. It is located at 424 S. Indian Canyon in Palm Springs, California. the phone number is 760-325-9264. there is ample parking behind at the restaurant. As you enter the restaurant there is a bar in the middle with an outdoor patio area to the left and the main restaurant on the right.

Happy Hour at Wangs

We have eaten at this restaurant several times both in the restaurant as well as on the patio for happy hour. Note that happy hour is only in the patio and at the bar and usually runs from 4:30 to 7:00 pm. Well drinks are $2 and well martini’s are $4. There is also a happy hour menu of various  items all of which are good and very enjoyable.

The patio is enclosed and they provide heaters for cooler nights. This location is very attractive once you get inside, however it really does not look like much from the outside.  In fact we really never noticed it even though we had walked past Wangs in the desert several times while out walking in Palm Springs.  We were introduced to the restaurant by friends of ours who enjoy going there for happy hour.

Restaurant Meals at Wangs

There meals inside the restaurant are also very good. Although we have only eaten there once with a group of eight people, we really enjoyed the meal and the food. We would recommend that you at least try this restaurant once and form your own opinion. It is out of the way on Indian Canyon in Palm Springs. It is easy to never really notice it. Try it we think that you will like Wangs in the Desert in Palm Springs.

If you have been there, why not leave us a comment? Either positive or negative comments are accepted as long as they are well written and helpful to our readers.

For more posts about Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

 

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Kaiser Grill Palm Springs

April 7th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 1 Comment »

The Kaiser Grill in  Palm Springs has been remodeled and it is much better now. We liked it a lot before, because they served really great food and they served one of the best seafood pasta dishes that I have had in Kaiser Grill Palm Springsa long time. However we did not like their happy hour since it was dark inside and happy hour was served only at the bar, which was inside. We just did not like the decor at all, however it is much improved since it has been remodeled.

With the new remodeled interior, it is much better and they have a great happy hour as well. We sat at the bar. However we also could have been seated at one of several tables near the bar on high top chairs. We prefer the bar and we like to talk to other patrons at the bar. It is a great way to meet people and also to find out about other places that are good to go to as well. When you chat with one of the locals, they are happy to tell you all about Palm Springs. Also about the restaurant and interesting things to do in the city.

Kaiser Grill Palm Springs – Draft Beer

We ordered several draft beers at $3.50 a piece. The price was good, we have had better prices at other locations. But still this price is not bad at Kaiser grill in Palm Springs. We also ordered a chicken quesadia which was more than enough for two. It was excellent and came with six large pieces along with two side sauces.

Kaiser Grill is part of a chain of restaurants in the Palm Springs area. We enjoyed this restaurant very much and probably will go back to it sometime. If you want to go for dinner and it is a nice warm evening, sit outside on the patio to enjoy your dinner. You can people watch at the same time as they stroll along Palm Canyon Drive while enjoying a really good meal.

One of the best times to eat at this restaurant on the patio is Thursday night during the street fair. It is held every week on Thursdays. After you have spent some time walking along the street and mingling with the crowd, what could be better than enjoying dinner and a glass of wine. While you observe the folks walking along the street.

If you have been their for dinner or lunch , please leave a comment about your experience.

For more posts about Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Matchbox Restaurant Palm Springs

April 3rd, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Matchbox Restaurant Palm Springs

We have had the opportunity to go to the Matchbox restaurant for happy hour as well as have dinner there. We have always enjoyed happy hour at the Matchbox Restaurant in Palm Springs. The menu is great, the food tastes great and the prices are very good as well for Happy hour. We can highly recommend this location with the exception of windy days because the wind sometimes will blow through the alleyway upstairs which can be unpleasant. Also, the afternoon sun shines on this particular patio and can be quite hot. They do have umbrellas, but until the sun sets behind the mountains the temperature can be very uncomfortable in the afternoons.

They provide heaters as well for those days that are on the cool side and there is a fire pit to keep you warm were you can sit and look out on the small courtyard and Palm Canyon Drive beyond. This is actually a great spot to sit if you like to people-watch. In addition, sometimes there is entertainment on the patio below which you can listen to.

Matchbox Restaurant Palm Springs – Not so Good

We also had dinner at the matchbox in the main restaurant and were less than pleased. Dinner was for nine people and we found that the service was not nearly what it is during happy hour. Whenever you have a group of people, the restaurant only wants to have one bill and they want to automatically add an 18% tip to the bill. This is fine if you receive excellent service.

We did not receive very good service at all, certainly not even close to justifying an 18% tip.  It is our fault for not complaining; however, we were with a large group and did not want to make a scene. I would simply suggest you not go there or negotiate service and tip prior to being served. Once you are in the place, they hold you to ransom and make you pay the full 18% for the tip regardless of the service level.

We would not recommend that you waste your money having dinner at the Matchbox. Actually, we have never really seen this restaurant very busy at all which probably means that other people find it the same way.

Happy hour, on the other hand, is fine and we think that most people will enjoy it very much. It does get busy during happy hour times so if you do decide to go, get there when happy hour begins to get the seat that you really would prefer.

For more information about Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Manhattan in the Desert Palm Springs

March 28th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Just visited Manhattan in the Desert Palm Springs for lunch. We arrive shortly after 12 and had to wait for maybe 10 minutes. This gave us lot’s of time to admire the really great looking deserts displayed in the show case near the entrance area. The deserts were truly fabulous looking and if we were not trying to watch our weight we would have had desert with our meal. Maybe next week we will go for coffee and desert!

Manhattan in the Desert Palm Springs – Fabulous Food

There were four of us and we were seated at a large table quite quickly and the service level was fine. We had among us a cob salad, a soup and salad and a sandwich and soup combo.  The soup was split pea soup and it was really quite good. Hot with some small amount of vegetables in it. Tasted great.

Read the rest of this entry »

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Bill’s Pizza Palm Springs

March 25th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 2 Comments »

We went to Bill’s Pizza in Palm Springs the other night for happy hour. A friend of ours told us about their happy hour all day on Monday’s and we were thinking of going.

We were walking along Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs during their weekly street fest and the owner was handing out small slices of their pizza. It was so good that it convinced us that we really had to go and why not on happy hour Monday’s?

Happy hour Monday’s means pizza at regular price and draft beer at 75 cents for a 16 oz glass of ice cold beer. Sitting outside on the patio sipping cold beer and eating great pizza is an experience you cannot beat. Add 75 cent beer and it is fantastic. This is for your first beer only, after that it is $2 which is still an excellent price.

Visit Bill’s Pizza Palm Springs

The place is not upscale. It is a pizza place, and frankly with a location on Indian Palm Canyon Drive, it is not in one of the best locations as far as pedestrian traffic is concerned. They have to work a little harder at advertising, but it is well worth the visit. This is a must visit for all pizza and beer lovers.

If you are trying to find Bill’s pizza, the address is 119 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA . They are across the street from Tylers restaurant.

Read the rest of this entry »

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Peabody’s Palm Springs

March 21st, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

We recently visited Peabody’s restaurant in Palm Springs for Peabody's Palm Springsbreakfast the other day. Peabody’s is located at 134 South Palm Canyon Drive in the center of downtown Palm Springs.  It is a good location and when we walk past this particular restaurant in the mornings it is always busy. Some patrons will be enjoying a traditional breakfast, while others will have something fancy, and still, and others will be enjoying an early lunch with a cold beer. They have tables along the sidewalk against the building and also on the sidewalk close to the curb, so you can take your pick of where you want to sit.

Peabody’s Palm Springs – Great Breakfasts

Make no mistake it is a sidewalk cafe, with really great food and a nice atmosphere.  We decided to split the breakfast which most restaurants have no problem with. I ordered an extra coffee and the breakfast came with an extra plate. Everything was fine until breakfast arrived.

We like our eggs fully cooked with the yellow part just a bit runny and the white part firmly cooked. One egg was cooked perfectly, and of course, this is the one that I received. The other one still had runny egg white and this is the one my wife received. She is even pickier than I am when it comes to egg whites being well cooked. We explained to the waiter what the problem was and he said no problem and went off to order another egg.

Confusing Service

Meanwhile, my wife sat there while the toast got cold and the potatoes also got cold. The new egg finally came and it was cooked properly, but now everything else was cold. We tried to explain our frustration with this and to their credit they ordered an entirely new breakfast for us.

So while it was a bit frustrating at first with the food quality and the service,  the restaurant came through with both service and food. They were happy to help us and did their best to make sure that our meal was enjoyable and tasty!

Our Recommendation for Peabody’s Restaurant in Palm Springs

We would definitely recommend Peabody’s restaurant in Palm Springs for breakfast and based on the service we received, for any other meal as well although we have not tried other meals at this particular restaurant.

It is always crowded in the mornings around breakfast time and not so much later on, so obviously, other people besides ourselves feel that they serve great meals during this time. If you have been there, let us know what you think with your comments. We are looking for well-written comments and not just links with no information for our readers.

We have lots more reviews of Palm Springs Restaurants. click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Lulu’s Restaurant Palm Springs

March 18th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 1 Comment »

Lulu's Restaurant Palm SpringsLast evening we went to a relatively new restaurant in Palm Springs called Lulu’s. This particular restaurant has been open for about a year now and every night the place seems to be crowded and busy with people having dinner or just out for an evening drink or two.

One of the big attractions is that they advertise that they have happy hour all day long as long as you are sitting at the bar or in the bar area at one of the high topped tables! Imagine happy hour all day long.  They are at 200 S. PALM CANYON DRIVE, in PALM SPRINGS. Apparently, there is also a sister restaurant in Palm Desert, however, we have not been to that one yet.

Sit Outside at Lulu’s Restaurant in Palm Springs

There are tables along the sidewalk as well as inside. There is also a second floor where you can dine privately or with a large group. All of the food that we have tried there so far has been great.

The happy hour menu lists all of the items available at the bar. Prices are generally a couple of dollars less expensive than if were to eat at a table, and you can also order off the regular menu as well while sitting at the bar, however, regular prices also apply. Draft beer was $4, so not a bad price.

We were there on a Sunday night around 8 pm and the place was packed. You know the restaurant serves good food when they can pack them in on a Sunday evening!

Kaiser Grill in Palm Springs

The picture on the left shows the corner they are on and the restaurant across the street from Lulus, which we have not yet tried. They are across the street from the Kaiser Grill which is another great restaurant. All three restaurants were pretty busy so there is lots of competition and reasonable prices. In fact, restaurants that are a bit further away from this particular corner have started offering more lucrative happy hour menus in an effort to stay competitive and attract customers. The Falls Restaurant and the Matchbox are two places that have recently expanded their happy hour menus.

We like going to happy hours and trying the menu out. The prices are correct, and you find out if you like the restaurant or not. Many people feel they do not get their money’s worth or are still hungry. We order another appetizer if we are still hungry. Some places, such as Lulu’s restaurant in Palm Springs, offer discounts on the drinks as well as the food, while in other places, it is only on the price of drinks. We have no preference as long as the food is good.

Stay tuned for more restaurant reviews in this area of Palm Springs. We will go back to Lulu’s restaurant in the future and recommend that you visit this particular restaurant if you are in the area. Your comments are welcome. We will approve linkbacks if you provide us with well-written informative comments about the Palm Springs area.

For lots more posts covering restaurants in Palm Springs, click here.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Zini Cafe Med in Palm Springs

March 14th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Last night we went to Zini Cafe Med iterrano in Palm Springs for happy hour. It was also the night that Palm Springs has their weekly Palm Springs street Zini Cafe Med in Palm Springsfestival. They close South Palm Canyon drive down for about  six blocks and it is then filled with venders on both sides of the road with thousands of people strolling along and visiting all of these venders. This was an excellent time to go to the Zini Cafe Mediterrano. We sat a table along the sidewalk were we could watch the people strolling along and the venders with all of their products.

Happy Hour at the Zini Cafe Mediterrano in Palm Springs

Happy hour starts at 4pm and ends at 6pm, while the street fest begins at 5pm. We arrived sharp at 4 pm, because we wanted to have a choice in tables and we got just the right one for us in our opinion. We sat in a corner along the sidewalk were we could watch everyone, enjoy the scenery with the mountains in the background and also enjoy happy hour. The restaurant, Zini Cafe Mediterrano is located at 140 South Palm Canyon drive in Palm Springs.

Happy Hour Prices at Zini Cafe Med

We found that the prices for beer at $2 was among the best in the area for happy hour. Prices for wine was at $5 per glass which really was not that great a deal. The food was excellent, we had a number of happy hour meals and they were all excellent except for one.

They are all priced at $4 which is not too bad, however they are all relatively small so you really do not get much for $4 . One of the dishes we ordered was humus on crossini which is really just french bread or something like that. It did look nice when it arrived, however there were only two little pieces of bread with humus and a very small slide of cheese on the top.

I said to the waiter, that I could not believe it when he served it. He really looked embarrassed and I could tell he agreed with me. I told him for $4, I should have at least received 4 pieces of  bread with humus. He said he would tell the owner, but I really do not think anything will be done about it.

Location Counts

Overall we really enjoyed the evening. The restaurant was crowded for happy hour and then cleared out around 6pm when happy hour was over. I noticed that it was again crowded later on for dinner which speaks volumes for the restaurant. They have good food and the decor is nice as well. They have white table clothes and cloth napkins which puts it above many of the other restaurants in the area.

We plan to go back later this month for happy hour again. We enjoyed it very much. If you have also been to Zini Cafe Mediterrano, write a comment on this post or your experience at Zini Cafe Mediterrano.

We have lots more reviews of Palm Springs Restaurants. click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Deauville Palm Springs

March 7th, 2012 ernie Posted in Palm Springs No Comments »

The Deauville condo’s in Palm Springs is one of the premier locations to stay at while in Palm Springs if you are looking for a condo to rent with all of the amenities that you need for a great vacation. We have been going to this location for many years now and thoroughly enjoy it.

Deauville Palm Springs There are 3 pools at this complex and the picture on the left is the main pool. surrounded by lush grounds, palm trees , lime trees, grapefruit trees and even the odd orange tree, you really cannot ask for more. The pool is heated to 85 degrees year round and there are lots of chairs to relax on to catch the sun’s rays. Palm Springs is in a valley surrounded by mountains. The temperatures are always 10 to 15 degrees hotter than the coast and there is usually blue skies as much as 350 days of the year.

Combine swimming, hot tubs,  tennis, workout room, surface and underground parking with close proximity to downtown and you have the perfect combination. There are also lots of things to do in the area. With 115 golf courses and loads of hiking trails there are lots to do in the area in addition to going to happy hour at the restaurants.

Restaurants and the Spa Casino

There are many restaurants in Palm Springs, several that we have covered on this web site within walking distance. Many offer happy hour from 5 to 6 or until 7 with half price on drinks and appetizers.  There is also the Spa Casino  in downtown Palm Springs within 1 block of the property and easy walking distance. We have spent many evenings at the Spa, playing the slots or just relaxing having a drink while watching sports in the sports bar. check out their Monday night football parties with cheap beer and unlimited buffet while the game is on.

Deauville Palm Springs

This second picture of the pool at the Palm Springs Deauville condos is taken facing west with the mountains in the back ground and the Palm Trees and club house in the foreground.  The depth of the pool is about 4 to 5 feet, perfect for swimming or wading for adults. Children need to be watched for obvious reasons. If you are concerned about too much time in the sun, there are lots of trees and areas you can get in the shade and still enjoy the ambiance of the pool. Last year there were lots of Canadians vacationing around the pool area as well as Americans. Most owners will use their condo at least once a year or more often.

Temperatures and Peak Season

Prime time or peak season for this property is from Jan to Mar. April to May and October to December is considered the shoulder months.  June through September are very warm with pretty much every day over 100 degrees. July and August it is usually 110 to 120 every day. Some people like it that hot while others have a difficult time with these hot temperatures.

The Palm Springs Area

There are 115 golf courses in the area. At least 10 casinos. There is shopping at high end stores as well as the outlets and everything in between. There is lots to do in the area. Palm Springs also has many hiking trails in the area . Some that are easy as well as those that are considered challenging. Take the Tram to the top of the mountain. Hike at 5000 feet elevation among the trees if you feel the need to get away from the heat and the desert.  The city of Palm springs is only at 400 feet elevation. It is sometimes nice to move to higher elevations in the summer time to cool off.

If you have been to Palm Springs or stayed at the Deauville in palm springs and want to leave a comment, please do so. For rental information, you can also rent a unit at the Deauville as well. Click here for more information. Our readers will appreciate it. If you leave a constructive well written comment, we will even approve the link back to your site!

For more things to do in the Palm Springs area, click here.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Tropicale Restaurant in Palm Springs

April 10th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

We recently went to the restaurant called Tropicale in Palm Springs California. It is located at the corner of Amado and N Calle Encilla. The address is 330 East Amado Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262-6437.

They have a happy hour every day from 5 pm until 7 pm and if you have not tried Tropicale Restauranthappy hours at any local Palm Springs restaurants, you should. This is an excellent way to try out a restaurant to see its decor, service and food without having to spend too much. If you like it, then you can always go back again either for happy hour or for the main course.

Tropicale is definitely a place that we will go back to especially for happy hour. We had 6 beers and 3 appetizers all for a grand total of $35 including tax and tip. Not a bad deal alt all. Oh by the way, the food was great. The decor is great and the service is equally good as well. Highly recommend this place to visit and apparently it is written up in some of the better know restaurant reviews, although we have not been able to verify this.

They also have an outdoor area which has some shade, a bar you can sit at as well as seven or eight tables were you can spend a very nice evening or afternoon enjoying the atmosphere and the food with a few drinks.

We like to sit at the bar. You meet people this way and you get to chat with the bar tender as well. It is a great way to see just how well run the place is, attention to cleanliness and how liberal they are with drinks. Some bars will measure, others will gauge by eye when the fill a wine glass for example. Tropicale does it by gauging when your glass has enough.

Tropicale Restaurant – Meeting People

One thing that you risk when you sit at the bar like this, is that sometimes you end up talking to people that you really do not want to get to know. This was the case the night we went. One guy who was quite full of himself monopolized the conversation. He talked about how many cities and countries he had traveled to and how good he was at negotiation. I could not get rid of him. I was beginning to wonder if he was gay and trying to pick me up. After mentioning my wife several times and that we were leaving he finally left.

My wife also got caught by a women who was by herself and claimed to not be gay,  but wanted to go our further for drinks with us. We decided to leave the Tropicale Restaurant at this point and all was fine. Never the less this is a danger when you sit at the bar.

Finally this place is popular with gay men. There was maybe 50% couples i.e. men and women, while the rest were gay. This is something to be aware of if you plan to visit this restaurant and we really recommend that you do. It is one of the better restaurants in Palm Springs.

If you have been there and have comments, please leave a comment on this post to help our readers.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Tylers Burgers Palm Springs

March 2nd, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

For the best burgers in Palm Springs, you simply have to visit Tylers Burgers Palm Springs.  Located at 149 South Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA Tylers Burgers Palm Springs92262-6603, United States it is in the central part of Palm Springs within easy walking distance of many motels, hotels and living areas. They are licensed so you can order a beer for example while waiting for your meal.

Get there early to avoid waiting in line. During busy seasons, Jan through March, the line forms around 11:30 am. The restaurant is already full at this point and people will sign the list to be the next in line to have one of the best burgers in Palm Springs. They are only open for lunch from approximately 11 am until 3 pm. They also close during the summer when the temperatures are just too high.

What is Unique About Tylers Burgers Palm Springs

There are several unique aspects about Tylers that brings people to this burger place in the middle of the desert.  Tylers is located in the middle of a side street between North Palm Canyon and South Indian Canyon.  Patrons eat under canvas rain or shine, although there is a small bar area inside that will seat about 4 or 5 people. Finally they are only open for lunch, serving burgers, fries, soup and other assorted items, however they are known for their excellent burgers and sliders!

Tylers Burgers Palm Springs – Get There Early

Tylers is so popular that people start lining up to get in before 11:00 am and the place is often full by 11:15am. We arrived at 11:30 the other day and had to place our names on a waiting list which lasted about 20 minutes. For the women there are lots of shops nearby to look at while you wait, while the men are unfortunately stuck weighting on the street or on the few benches that are provided.

During high season, the wait can be long and if you are impatient the best approach is to get their early. However if you are not in a hurry, the best approach is to arrive 20 to 30 minutes ahead of when you want to eat and place your name on the waiting list. Then you can relax and investigate the nearby shops. Unfortunately one member of your group will have to wait in case your name is called.

Burgers and Sliders

We have already mentioned sliders. In case you are not aware, these are mini burgers that are suitable for the smaller appetite. Many women will order these. They are just as good as the regular burgers and have all of the toppings that their larger cousins have. Add an order of fries or a soup and you will be more than satisfied.

Toppings include all of the regular items such as mustard, catchup, mayonnaise, lettuce and relish. You can also have your burger with either raw onions or fried onions as well which are very tasty!.

Tylers is only open for lunch, 7 days a week, so if you plan to go, get their early!

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Match Box Restaurant, Palm Springs

February 27th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 1 Comment »

The Match Box restaurant is another eatery that we like to go to for happy hour.  The Match Box has recently reopened under a new name called the American Brickworks Bistro. They have the same menu, and according to the owners better quality and presentation. We have not gone there yet and cannot comment directly on the menu and atmosphere. Check it out and let us know what you think of the new revamped restaurant location.

The Match Box restaurant is located on the second floor beside the Falls Restaurant and above Ruby’s Diner. Access is via the stairs or the elevator behind the out door patio on the street level operated by the Ruby’s Diner. By the way this diner is another excellent place to eat as well, especially their breakfast in the mornings. Sitting outside, enjoying the sun having breakfast, what could be better! However this post is all about the Match Box , so we will focus on this restaurant during this post.

Match Box Restaurant – The Fire Pit

One of the unique aspects of this restaurant is the fire pit that extends along the front of the bar area overlooking the alley and the street. This is a great place to sit, take in the view and to keep warm during cooler evenings. This is usually the first place to fill up in the bar area.

There are also tables to sit at in the bar area as well and during cooler days, the restaurant provides heaters to keep you warm. Sitting at the tables you have a view of the western mountains, which seem so close you could reach out and touch them. The only negative about the Match Box is that during windy days, the wind will blow through the bar area, since it is open at  both ends.

 Happy Hour

Happy hour at the match box is from 4 to 6, however confirm the times before you go since they do change from time to time. Most drinks are either half price or $2 off the regular price. Appetizers are half price and fairly large so you can easily make a meal of them while enjoying happy hour.

We have met a number of people during happy hour since almost everyone is a tourist and love to talk about were they are staying and the deals they come across.

The menu for happy hour includes burgers, salads or pizza, so there is lots to choose from.

Many restaurants have happy hours, some great, some average, however this restaurant ranks among the better ones to go to. We have been there many times and plan to go back again.

If you have been there and want to leave a comment, please feel free to do so. Spam comments will be auto deleted.

Save

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

The Falls Restaurant Palm Springs

February 25th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

Unfortunately The Falls Restaurant Palm Springs is now closed as of the spring of 2016. The Falls restaurant in Palm Springs used to be one of our favorite places to go for dinner as well as happy hour. The location is upstairs beside the Matchbox Restaurant and above Ruby’s diner. Both of these restaurants are very good as well, however this post is going to be all about the Falls Restaurant!

We got stiffed recently at the Matchbox with the restaurant adding $10 to the tip without our approval. The understanding was that our friends were picking up the tip, but the restaurant added $10 to our bill and charged our visa without our approval. be careful of this restaurant! For lots more posts covering restaurants in Palm Springs, click here.

Getting to The Falls Restaurant Palm Springs

Falls Restaurant Palm SpringsYou can take an elevator or walk up the stairs from the alleyway just past the Ruby’s diner outdoor patio. The Falls Restaurant is actually a fine dining kind of place complete with table cloths and  decor that provides for an intimate dining experience. The menu is excellent and the food measures up to our expectations, which are very high. They also have a happy hour available in the bar area, which is separated from the restaurant area. If you are spending a lot of money for a great meal, you will not be bothered by patrons in the bar area.  For excellent dining and a romantic evening, this is the place to spend some time.

The Balconies

There are 3 balconies that really put this place over the top for us. The balconies look out over Palm Canyon drive, they are two that are large enough for a table of 4 while the 3rd is really for 2 people. There is room for a small heater if needed as well on cooler evenings. We have dined here 4 times, on the balcony that is closed off to the rest of the restaurant by French doors so you can have a private dining experience, yet be part of the action overlooking the street below with the many strollers and hot cars on the street. For us this is the best place to really enjoy a beautiful evening.

If you order a Cesar salad, it is made from scratch right in front of you with the flourish that many waiters will provide. Their steaks are excellent!

The Martini Bar at the Falls

Before you enter the actual restaurant, there is a bar in the shape of a horse shoe. It has a waterfall  at the open end of the horse shoe. There are also tables for four situated around the bar as well. So patrons can choose seating at the bar or at one of the tables.

We like going here for happy hour. Smoking martinis, half price well drinks and beer along with wine. Also half price appetizers are on the menu during happy hour. The timing of happy hour does change from time to time, so you should check ahead of time, however usually it is from 4:30 to 6:30 in the afternoon’s. Lately they have changed happy hour to happy day, that’s right all day long to compete with Lulu’s down the street.

Everyone has a laugh over the smoking bubbling martini’s. They are entertaining, but they also taste excellent. There is a large selection of regular martini’s as well as fruity types as well. If you go to the Falls restaurant, you have to try one of these at least once.

The appetizers are unique and excellent. Presentation, taste and quantity are top of the line. For light eaters, two appetizers will likely be sufficient for your dinner. Anyone who needs something more substantial can always order off the menu.

As we mentioned earlier in the post, we have dined in the restaurant 4 times. We have been to the bar for happy hour numerous times. We have yet to be disappointed.

If you have been to the Falls, please leave a comment on your experience. We loved it and would recommend this restaurant to all of our friends.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Chipotle Palm Springs

February 19th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

We just finished lunch at Chipotle Palm Springs and found it to serve one of the healthiest fast foods with a Mexican flare that we have ever had.  This restaurant is located at 2465 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Unit 1110, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States. We have eaten there many times since this original post and found the food to be excellent every time.

Chipotle Palm Springs

For those of you who have never heard of Chipotle, this is a new chain of restaurants that is spreading throughout the US in the fast food category. You can dine in the restaurant as well as take your meal with you if you are on the run. This particular restaurant was also licensed and had both an indoor eating area as well as an outdoor patio. The patio was broken into two parts, one was covered and the other had tables with umbrellas. The entire outdoor area is shared with a sub place and a frozen yogurt place as well.

High Quality

We cannot say enough about the quality of the food, the service, and the price. All three are rated excellent. The picture on the left is from the Chipotle website. We hope they do not mind because we love their food so much. Looks good or what?  The decor is ok, after all, it is a fast food restaurant.

You can choose from a bowl, burritos, tacos, and two other combinations which we have forgotten. Readers, please leave a comment if you know the others. You can choose between vegetarian, chicken, pork and beef, with rice, onions, chili sauce , corn, lettuce, and guacamole. The menu can be a bit confusing, however, the staff is more than willing to help you with your choices.

Value for Price

We found that a bowl plus a drink came to less than $10 and was large enough to be shared between two adults unless you are really hungry or have an extra large appetite. The food and vegetables were fresh and hot so everything was tasty. You can also add mild, medium or hot chili sauce to suit your tastes. They provide hot sauce which you can add separately.

Drinks are the fountain type and you can have as many refills as you need. All in all, this is a really good deal, healthy as well and fresh food. We noticed that when a tray of rice was almost gone, they replaced it with a full tray and threw the old one out. They do not add hot food on top of the food that has been sitting there for a while, even though it has not been there very long.

If you like Chipotle’s or have comments that you would like to add, please feel free to do so. Our readers will appreciate the response and the comments. Spam comments will be auto-deleted.

For more posts about Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Driving Around Palm Springs

February 17th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs 1 Comment »

Driving around Palm Springs and the other desert cites that occupy the valley can be very easy as well as stressful depending on your point of view. The streets are wide with lots of signs and most parking is free and there seems to be no problem parking along the side streets.  In fact the side streets are so wide it is sometimes difficult to know whether you there are two lanes or four lanes, since only the dividing line is marked.

Parking

As far as parking is concern the basic rule is to never park along a curb that is painted in red or green. Almost anything else goes unless there is a specific sign saying other words.

Drivers – Old and Fast

There are many slow drivers in the desert. These drivers are a combination of older drivers who are nervous driving on these streets which are pretty flat and easy to navigate. Some will stop at stop signs and some will not. As you approach any intersection it is a good idea to always drive defensively and observe what the oncoming traffic is doing as well as people approaching from side streets. Sometimes these older drivers miss the stop sign. We are not picking on older drivers, we just noticed that many of them are not driving as well as they maybe should be.

There are also the usual fast drivers as you find in any city. Usually younger people they have faster cards and drive aggressively.  Nothing new here, it is just an unusual combination with the younger and older drivers being on the same roads.

Respect for Pedestrians

One thing that seems to be a common element here in Palm Springs is the respect for pedestrians. Crossing streets at stop lights or walk signs, people in cars are usually very patient. Everyone seems to take their turn and they seem to wait patiently while you cross.

Having said that there have been one or two instances that we have heard of were people have been hit by an impatient driver, or someone on drugs or has had too much to drink. So even if you find that drivers respect pedestrians more here, don’t let you guard down. Always make eye contact before you cross with drivers and only cross when you are sure they will stop.

Traffic Fines

We have read several news items lately where California has double their traffic fines. The state is short of money and they are making people who break the law pay for their bad driving. So if you get a parking ticket or are stopped for speeding, expect a big fine!

Highway 111 is the main road through the valley that takes you through all of the desert cities. This is the scenic view. If you have never been here before it can be a nice drive to pass through the valley. Take the exit off I10 and into Palm Springs from LA. 111 turns into Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs and continues on to the other desert cities.

I10 is the major route from Los Angeles to Phoenix. There are approximately 10 exits that you can take to the desert cities, 2 of which will take you into Palm Springs.

For many more posts about Palm Springs and things to do in the area, click here.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Leons Bar and Grill Palm Springs

February 14th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's 1 Comment »

Unfortunately, Leons Bar and Grill Palm Springs is now closed. While it was open it certainly was a place you should visit while in Palm Springs. We just got back from Leon’s Bar & Grill at the Indian Canyons Golf Resort in Palm Springs. What a wonderful experience. We went for the Sunday brunch, which was priced at $15 per person.  For this price you receive all you can drink champagne, juice, coffee and an entree of your choice which includes everything from omelet’s to Chicken pot pie, to salads with crab cakes. They also come with a small dish of fruit. A great deal by any standards especially when you consider the view.

The dining area at Leons Bar and Grill Palm Springs looks out onto the golf course with a breathtaking fountain and the mountains in the background. Resort owners can drive their golf carts up to the bar and come in for a drink or a meal any time. We just had to take this picture of a 1959 BMW golf car powered by a 1 cylinder motorcycle engine. Two people can travel in this little car and when it was manufactured you could by it for $800 in 1959! Today as an antique it is apparently worth $35,000!  Everyone wanted to take pictures of it and have their picture taken with it.

Leons Bar and Grill Palm Springs

We had brunch with our friends. As you can see the champagne is flowing with some of us having mimosa’s along with our meals.  If you have the opportunity to be in Palm Springs, we strongly recommend that you take Leon’s brunch in on Sundays. Reservations are needed. Leons Bar and Grill Palm SpringsWe had a choice of seats with a 1o am reservation, however by 11 am the place was full and there was a waiting line of people to get in. At 12, I am sure the waiting time is at least 30 minutes or perhaps even longer.

I had chicken pot pie. Which as you can see from the picture was huge and I have to say was also delicious. It also came with a bowl of fruit as well. Our friends had an omelet with real fried potatoes and salad with crab cakes. There are approximately 12 to 15 items on the menu. There is something for everyone.

A Fun Place for Everyone

The gay community feel free to be seen together and to act out sometimes and valentines brings the best or the worst out in them depending on your point of view. Many came bearing valentines gifts for their friends. There were four or five guys who we think are part of an entertainment group who walked in wearing red hats and red high heels! Not my thing, but they were funny and attracted a lot of attention.

The Indian Canyons golf club is part an old Palm Springs club that used to be private and now is open to the public, however I understand the fees are quite high.

If you have eaten at Leon’s and want to add your comments, please feel free to do so. Comments on the golf club are also welcome. Spam comments will be auto deleted.

For information about other Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Azul Patio Restaurant, Palm Springs

February 13th, 2011 ernie Posted in Palm Springs Rest's No Comments »

We dropped into the patio at the Azul Patio restaurant located at 369 N. Palm Canyon Drive, in Palm Springs the other day. We had seen an advertisement for this patio were they advertised their happy hour and the outdoor patio experience. When we arrived there were lots of people on the patio. So we thought this would be a good place to spend some time, enjoy the sun. We wanted to enjoy a few drinks along with some appetizers.

The Azul Patio Restaurant is unique in Palm Springs as are many of the restaurants. There is a central bar area were you can sit and meet other patrons around the bar. You can talk to the bar tender and enjoy the surroundings. We like to do this at most places we go since you have a chance to talk to people. As a result you get to know the place you are in a little better. On one side of the bar next to the street, are swings with tables that will seat four people. This is kind of neat. As a result it obviously popular since all of them were occupied when we arrived.

Azul Patio Restaurant

On the other side of the bar are traditional tables. Some are high up with stools , while the others are regular tables. They also have awnings that slide forward to protect you from the noon day sun. They slide back for the evening. On cool nights there are heaters to keep you warm.

We found out that happy hour started at 4 pm and lasted until 6:30. Most drinks were either half price or $2 off the regular price. Once thing that did not appeal to us was that there were no prices on the happy hour menu for drinks although you could find them in a different part of the menu.

We found that the bar tender was decidedly unfriendly, not only to us but to pretty much everyone. Maybe he was having a bad day and he was really busy, however he never smiled and was pretty focused all of the time. We are used to bar tenders knowing that part of their job is to not only serve drinks, but to also spend some time socializing with the guests, even if it is only a few comments here and there.

Our Order

We decided to order a draft beer and a glass of wine. The Pinot Grigio, my wife ordered was not part of the happy hour, so we had to pay full price for this drink. Beer was $2.75, a pretty good price.

We also ordered Natcho’s and humus for $3.00. When it arrived we were surprised. There was a small container of humus about the size you would get if you ordered catchup on the side at some restaurants. There were about 7 large tortilla chips. Needless to say were surprised and disappointed in this order being so skimpy. I guess we are used to most American restaurants providing large orders of food even if it is part of happy hour.

Although the patio was full, and seemed to be enjoyed by a lot of people, we would not really recommend this place. There are many other restaurants and patios that are more fun and have better appetizers than the Azul restaurant patio in Palm Springs.

If you have comments or have spent some time at this restaurant, please fell free to leave your comments as well. Maybe you had a different experience than us and really like this particular restaurant. Spam comments will be auto deleted.

For information about other Palm Springs Restaurants, click here.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button


?>


Web Content Development