8 upscale restaurants for a special occasion

PAlm springs

Spencer’s Restaurant

Located at the foot of the San Jacinto Mountains, Spencer’s combines elegance with comfort. It’s the kind of place where slow-baked meatloaf is considered fine dining and banana-stuffed pancakes are the start of an imaginative weekend brunch.

Hot springs in the desert

The restaurant at Two Bunch Palms

This hotel restaurant’s seasonal menu celebrates all the vegetable-infused delights that Southern California cuisine has to offer. Craving something sweet? The sticky toffee date cake is a must. (You must book a room to dine here.)

Cathedral City

Trilussa

It turns out that locals don’t have to hop on a plane to experience authentic Italian cuisine. Guests can enjoy a diverse Italian menu ranging from lasagna to vegan sausage pizza, all from the comfort of the desert.

Rancho Mirage

Willie’s modern kitchen

Away from the bar, Willie’s Dining Room offers a quieter crowd multi-course meals on white tablecloths. Specialties such as Sunday tea add to the charm.

Palm desert

Mitch’s at El Paseo Prime Seafood

Whether you’re craving steak and lobster or a fine sushi dinner, this El Paseo restaurant has it all. Enhance your dining experience with the sake menu.

Indian Wells

Vicky’s of Santa Fe

Open since 1989, this restaurant features classic American cuisine. Fine steak, seafood and potatoes take center stage on an extensive menu that plays with modernity while remaining firmly rooted in the comfort of tradition.

La Quinta

Lavender Bistro

Romance is the name of the game at this Old Town La Quinta favorite, which emphasizes formal service and classic cuisine. Dine al fresco under a canopy of trees and enjoy a lavender martini (or two!). The restaurant reopens September 26.

Indian

The Bistro

When you think of fine dining, a casino restaurant may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but this upscale restaurant at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino surprises with modern cuisine and a wide selection of sushi. Bonus: It offers built-in date activities, including golf, gambling and on-site laser bowling.