The Lap of Luxury is Palm Springs

Our Local Expert Says:

This street can get very busy and very crowded during the middle of the day. There are lots of great shops and restaurants; if you come early you can find street parking and you will have a days worth of shopping ahead of you. If you visit later in the day it is easier to find parking off the main street just a short walk away.

Description:

This mile-long avenue in Palm Desert is often called "The Rodeo Drive of the Desert," comparing it to the renowned upscale shopping district of Beverly Hills. Art galleries, fine furnishings, couture clothing and restaurants make this tree-shaded avenue ideal for strolling and browsing. There are some bargains to be found, especially in the upscale chain stores at The Gardens on El Paseo, but most of the clientele here do not need to check the price tags. However, everyone can enjoy the free contemporary outdoor sculpture exhibits presented on the landscaped meridian.

Description:

This restaurant at the Ingleside Inn is renowned as a romantic, traditional restaurant with a seductive lounge. Acclaimed as "One of the Ten Best" by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, it is guaranteed to be memorable. Virtually all of the appetizers could have been found on New York menus of the 1920s: shrimp cocktails, Oysters Rockefeller and Beluga Malassol caviar quoted daily at market price. The French Chicken Breast is a favorite specialty.

Description:

In keeping with its name, this restaurant, the pride of the Viceroy Palm Springs, sports sunny yellow interiors and contrasting white furniture, while retaining its Hollywood-style glamour. With dining options indoors and by the pool, it is frequented not only by the hotel's guests but also by tourists and locals looking for a fine dining experience. Modern Californian cuisine with a French twist is what you will be served here. A typical meal would consist of a sugary glass of Le Citron Bleu and a plate of tapas or spicy tacos. Try the highly recommended Maple Leaf Farm duck breast in foie gras. Dessert would involve a delectable Citron tart or a scrumptious Valrhona Chocolate Souffle. A traditional American breakfast and brunch is also available, and though the service is slow, it is well worth the wait, so dig in!

Description:

From the moment you enter this special gallery, you are surrounded by the finest in glass art. In fact, even the doorway is a glass sculpture by Ian Moyer, and the ceiling is a desert skyscape by Gene Peebles. The items available for purchase are no less splendid, from Gavin Heath's bud vases in bold primary to Bandhu S. Dunham's fantasy goblets. Everything is selected by the unerring eye of owner Dario Jones. It is a great place to find a new heirloom or dramatic focal piece for a room.

Description:

Specializing primarily in contemporary glass and ceramic arts, this gallery prides itself on introducing new artists to its art-collector clientele. There is always something new and different to intrigue the avid collector, and the constantly changing collection is a delight to explore. The gallery also offers paintings, lithographs, mixed-media creations, hand-blown glass and even the occasional doll or two. Many items are investment-quality, but the gallery also features reasonably priced fine gift items.

Description:

The sunny golden walls of this intimate, 18-table restaurant seem to reflect the South of France rather than the Austrian origin of its owner and head chef, Johannes Bacher. No matter how unusual the combination, Johannes brings it all together in a beautifully presented meal. Yellow Beets as an appetizer? In balsamic syrup and an Austrian pumpkin seed sauce, it is sublime. Lobster in the mashed potatoes? It is a perfect accompaniment for crispy Atlantic Salmon. There is an extensive by-the-glass wine list and an exceptional variety of imported and domestic beers.

Description:

This long-established gallery and plant nursery is named for the palapas: umbrella-like, palm-frond constructions offering shade. Usually at least 30 artists are represented here. At any time, one or two of the artists will be on hand giving demonstrations or talking about their work. Look for blacksmiths, glass artists, painters, illustrators, potters and multimedia artists. Visitors can also enjoy looking through the plants offered for sale, a reminder of the site's beginnings as Neel's Nursery more than 50 years ago. The 14-acre site is often booked as a venue for special events.

Description:

This inviting shop filled with fascinating art and objects is dangerous to browse if you do not want to spend money. You are sure to find something that is just perfect for you or a friend. If you have become addicted to sophisticated Martini drinks, check out the selection of glasses and shakers perfect for enhancing your home bar. In a warm, well-lit atmosphere, lamps, framed prints, watches, gourmet or quirky kitchenware, and other small objects are displayed for your perusal.

Our Local Expert Says:

You can purchase gift certificates at a discounted price at area Costco's.

Description:

With moderate prices and a sophisticated atmosphere, this restaurant is a destination in itself, but also has become a favorite for those planning a post-dinner visit to Muriel's nightclub across the street. The dark, intimate atmosphere is particularly welcoming to couples, who also enjoy the patio tables. There is a full bar and a wine list with many by-the-glass selections. The mesquite-grilled Shrimp Pancetta with Coachella Valley Citrus Sauce is a marvel. In addition, the steaks are all excellent and the desserts are decadent.