Palm Springs has remained a classic and reliable getaway for those of us living in Los Angeles. Having spent over 20 years making the short drive to the desert to enjoy the warmth, mountains, and sands of the Sonoran Desert, I found myself wishing for a boom of new restaurants. The greater Palm Springs area is not without delicious options, I have enjoyed many meals at Workshop Kitchen + Bar, Norma’s, Chef’s Tanya’s Kitchen, and Birba. But with travel comes the desire for something new, an adventure awaiting. At times it felt like I had eaten at every cool essential restaurant in the desert and I was pining for something new.

This Spring as Ramadan was coming to a close, I began fantasizing about a vacation. My partner had never been to Palm Springs so it made for the perfect location. I booked a room at the Waldorf Astoria La Quinta - know for their tennis courts - then began to research what new establishments popped up since I had last ventured to the desert. Boozehounds caught my attention with their unique design and reservations were made.

The Food

Global flavors meet seasonal California cuisine is the focus of Executive Chef Aric Ianni. With locally sourced produce and sustainable ingredients, Boozehounds delivers a quality dinner in Downtown Palm Springs. We found ourselves especially hungry and excited to sample the restaurant’s menu so we ordered sesame miso tofu, shishito peppers, shrimp aguachile, sardines, bluefin tuna, Adobo chicken, and adouble cheeseburger. The seafood was vibrant and fresh with standouts that included both the shrimp aguachile and bluefin tuna. The Adobo Chicken is a must-order for anyone who loves the classic dish or is even the least bit curious. Made with simmered chicken thighs, steamed rice, chile threads, topped with adobo broth, and a side of spiced coconut vinegar, this piping hot bowl offered a comforting warmth packed with bold flavor.

The Scene

The vibe is elevated chill. Come through in an upbeat vacation mood and it’ll be taken a few notches up by the environment. If you have a pup, not only are they welcomed here, but are encouraged to be your guest. Dogs even have their own menu. The entire outdoor patio was built with canines in mind, thus the playful name of the restaurant.

We opted for a stylish booth in the large indoor dining space so that I could get a closer look at the restaurant’s lighting fixtures and arches. The natural light cast along the blush-colored walls created a lovely ambiance. The teal glass windows carved into the walls were gorgeous.

Price & Service

Cocktails $11 - $16, Plates $12 - $32

As a frequent diner in LA, I have become accustomed to $150 dinners, it’s our new reality. The same can be said for stylish contemporary dining in Palm Springs. At Boozehounds, a variety of shared plates, crudos, and cocktails makes for a satisfying meal.

The service was excellent on our visit. From the host to the server, there was a light and friendly attitude that was much appreciated. Before we left, the owner struck up a conversation with me and it was refreshing to hear about his vision for dining and his love for Palm Springs. At this point, I’d been in quarantine for over a year and I forgot how much I enjoyed learning the behind the scene stories of restaurant. I cannot wait to return for brunch!

Location

Boozehounds
2080 N Palm Canyon Dr
Palm Springs, CA 92262
+1 760-656-0067

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