If you’re traveling to Palm Springs and wishing for a taste of Italy, you’re in for a great treat.
It is no secret that Italian cuisine is famous throughout the world, and Palm Springs, CA, has an array of diverse Italian dining options to meet every appetite.
The city is brimming with Italian culinary delights, from classic pasta dishes to flavorful pizzas and delectable desserts.
You’ll find everything from cozy trattorias to elegant ristorantes in Palm Springs. We’ve rounded up 11 of the best and must-try Italian restaurants in Palm Springs to tempt your taste buds.
Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the flavors of Italy right here in Palm Springs.
Guide to Italian Restaurants in Palm Springs
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill
Next time you find yourself wandering through downtown Palm Springs, with its cool shops and chill vibe, make sure you swing by Sammy G’s. It’s been the go-to Italian spot since 2009.
Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a special dinner, Sammy G’s has got your back with a sweet mix of classic Italian and fresh California eats.
Imagine kicking back on their patio, soaking up that sunny desert goodness. Or step inside and feel like you’ve hopped to a Tuscan village.
You’ve got to try their Calamari Fritti or the Carpaccio – it’s excellent stuff. And for dinner? It’s all about kicking back in style. From Shrimp Scampi to mouth-watering pasta, they bring the Italian A-game.
Their Happy Hour is a daily hit if you want to party. Come Thursday to Saturday nights, the Lounge at Sammy G’s is where it’s at. Dancing, live music, and great drinks await you.
Johnny Costa’s Ristorante
Johnny Costa’s Ristorante is a family-owned restaurant in Palm Springs. For over 25 years, they’ve served delicious homemade Italian food in a charming setting that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Some top dishes at Johnny Costa’s include seafood, veal entrees, pasta, steaks, and brick oven pizza. Some of the most legendary recipes are the veal saltimbocca and classic seafood stew called cioppino – both favorites of the late original owner and chef, Johnny Costa.
Johnny Costa’s Ristorante offers both outdoor patio and indoor dining. It’s located between Baristo and Ramon on the South Palm Canyon. Parking is available out front or in the back off Indian Canyon Drive. Stop by this oldest Italian restaurant in Plam Springs for an authentic Italian dining experience.
Il Giardino Ristorante Italiano
Nestled just a short walk from downtown Palm Springs and near Art Museum Architecture, Il Giardino is one of the best Italian restaurants in Palm Springs. This charming spot has served Italian and Sicilian cuisine since it opened in 2015.
With a diverse menu of handcrafted dishes like signature lasagna, ravioli, and renowned pasta alla Norma, Il Giardino offers an authentic taste of Italy.
Indulge in crispy baked sea bass with lemon sauce, homemade spaghetti with pesto, or Valdostana chicken cutlet.
Take advantage of the weekly special desserts like the famous Sicilian cassata and traditional cannoli filled with rich ricotta cream.
Il Giardino has become where everyone finds space for a quiet family dinner. The warm and welcoming staff blends attitudes, desires, and experiences from their Italian and Sicilian families to create a meal and an adventure.
Kalura Trattoria
You can find Kalura Trattoria near the Plaza Theatre in downtown Palm Springs. Kalura Trattoria is all about casual dining with a splash of elegance. Swing by and soak in the homey feel, accented with lovely decor that makes every meal special.
You can start with crispy calamari, then have salmon pasta or eggplant ravioli to make you say, “Mamma mia!”
And the bar? It’s stocked with everything from bubbly prosecco to smooth martinis and fruity Sangria.
Chill on the patio with warming lamps that keep things toasty, or let the live tunes on Sunday night serenade you. Don’t stress about parking – there’s plenty of street space to snag a spot.
As far as Italian restaurants in Palm Springs go, Kalura Trattoria is a standout. With its fab food and warm service, you’ve gotta give this place a go!
Il Corso Palm Springs
Ready for a taste of Sicily right in the heart of Palm Springs? Il Corso is your go-to spot! Since 2019, Chef Mario Marfia has been bringing the zesty flavors of his Sicilian roots to the table. Picture yourself lounging on their outdoor patio, where the lights twinkle like stars, setting the perfect mood for an evening of indulgence.
Get ready to dive into a menu bursting with authenticity – think wood oven pizzas that’ll transport you to Naples, homemade pasta that’ll have you twirling your fork, and seafood so fresh you’ll hear the ocean. And their gnocchi has folks raving it’s the best around!
Sip on an iconic Italian cocktail to kick things off, and whatever you do, don’t skip on the desserts. With a bar showcasing an impressive bourbon collection, Il Corso Palm Springs is a culinary gem you’ll want to treasure time and time again. One visit, and you’ll be planning your next!
Trilussa
This hidden gem combines delicious cuisine with a welcoming ambiance. It stands out among the best Italian restaurants in Palm Springs. Trilussa is located in Cathedral City, a short drive from Palm Springs.
The restaurant offers traditional dishes like meatballs, spaghetti, chicken piccata, or veal cacciatore. They also have vegan and gluten-free options, like cauliflower bruschetta or zucchini pasta. Wines carefully selected to complement rich flavors are among their most outstanding features.
Trilussa has a family atmosphere with patio seating, private booths, and adjustable table arrangements for parties big and small. They strive for top-notch food and service and hope you’ll visit and become part of the family.
You can relax at the bar during Happy Hour, available daily from 4 pm to 7 pm. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a glass with your meal, Trilussa has you covered.
Birba
As one of the coolest Italian restaurants in Palm Springs, Birba is all about that laid-back, chic vibe where you can enjoy global eats and sip on cocktails under a canopy of trees.
The sister restaurant of Cheeky’s popular breakfast spot, Birba, emanates the same relaxed yet lively spirit.
With a menu focused on pizza, pasta, salads, and dishes like crispy pork belly and Nonna’s meatballs, Birba puts a global spin on Italian cuisine.
At Birba’s bustling bar, you can pair creative cocktails with wood-fired pizzas baked to perfection in the open kitchen.
And the tree-filled patio, with its soft lighting and cozy seating, sets the stage for a romantic dinner. We recommend reservations as Birba draws crowds nightly.
Giuseppe’s Pizzeria
Do you want to try some pizza in Palm Springs? You’ve gotta check out Giuseppe’s Pizzeria. It’s like a slice of Chicago in the desert since 2008.
This family-run spot knows how to dish out the hearty, cheesy goodness with their deep-dish specials that’ll make your mouth water.
Nestled in Smoke Tree Village, Giuseppe’s is all about those generous portions and friendly service that make you feel at home.
Whether you’re up for a crispy, thin crust or that legendary Chicago-style pizza, they’ve got you covered. There’s more than pizza – there’s pasta and salads, too!
The place has a festive vibe perfect for kicking back with a local craft brew or a glass of wine from their full bar. Space inside? Plenty. Want to enjoy the breeze? They’ve got some outdoor seating as well.
Call ahead since this place can fill up fast. Once you try Giuseppe’s deep dish, you’ll know why this place is so popular.
Spaghetteria
Looking for a smaller setting for authentic Italian in the desert? Look no further than Spaghetteria, a gem among the best Italian restaurants in Palm Springs. A family-run trattoria tucked away in a strip mall on Palm Canyon Drive, this spot has a classy vibe.
When you step into Spaghetteria, you’re in for a treat without the hefty price tag. The food here? It’s all about those classic Italian flavors. Your taste buds are in good hands, from Margherita pizza to bruschetta and caprese. Desserts like tiramisu, It’s a slice of homemade heaven you can’t skip!
The place is neat as a pin with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. They’ve got a fantastic little bar, too, perfect for sipping on wine or a cold beer. And don’t sweat the parking; there’s a spot waiting for you right there or across the street.
Wanna make sure you get a table? Just give them a ring to reserve your spot. Spaghetteria is the down-to-earth Italian escape you’ve been looking for in Palm Springs.
Miro’s Restaurant
Miro’s is your next stop in the Plaza del Sol, South Palm Springs. Miro and Mirela, the hearts behind this comfy spot, serve up homestyle cooking with flair.
Their menu, a delicious mix of Italian, Mediterranean, and Central European delights, is sure to have something that’ll make your taste buds sing.
Think of it as fine dining without the stuffiness. You’ll feel the warmth the moment you step in, greeted by friendly faces and stunning artwork.
And suppose you fancy a glass of something special. In that case, the restaurant’s full-service bar is stocked with unique finds from Italy to Bosnia Herzegovina.
Whether you bask in the outdoor courtyard or enjoy the indoor ambiance, you’re in for a treat. Got a car? Parking’s a breeze with their private lot. And while reservations are a good idea, be bold and walk in.
From the first bite to the last sip, Miro’s restaurant menu promises an evening where every moment is as perfect as the meal.
Palmina By Puglia
Just opened in 2022, Palmina By Puglia is already dishing out Southern Italian magic on Palm Canyon Drive.
Think of twirling your fork in homemade pasta and trying delicious braciola as you do so. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, flaming tiramisu and Lemon Italian cream cake? Absolute showstoppers.
Relax in their laid-back spot, perfect for those warm desert evenings. Sip on a knockout cocktail or a glass of velvety red wine and savor the moment. Whether cozying inside or enjoying their quaint outdoor area, you’re in for a treat.
So, if you’re missing Italy or just craving some soulful Southern Italian cuisine, Palmina By Puglia is your little slice of Italian heaven in the desert. Don’t miss out on this one!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
(Q1). Which Italian restaurant in Palm Springs is best for a romantic dinner?
Il Corso Palm Springs has a sparkling outdoor patio, perfect for a romantic evening. Miro’s Restaurant also has an intimate courtyard setting.
(Q2). Where can I find good pizza in Palm Springs?
Giuseppe’s Pizzeria is known for its Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Birba has wood-fired pizzas with global flavor fusions. Spaghetteria offers tasty Margherita pizza in a cozy trattoria setting.
(Q3). Which Palm Springs Italian restaurants have gluten-free or vegan options?
Trilussa in Cathedral City provides gluten-free and vegan Italian dishes like cauliflower bruschetta and zucchini pasta. Most other restaurants have vegetarian pasta dishes or pizzas as well.
(Q4). Where can I find casual, affordable Italian restaurants in Palm Springs?
Kalura Trattoria and Spaghetteria both offer classic Italian fare in laidback settings without high prices. Johnny Costa’s is also a family-owned spot with an old-school Italian menu.
Note: Business statuses can change. We recommend verifying any establishment’s current location and operational hours before planning your visit.
Note: Business statuses can change. We recommend verifying any establishment’s current location and operational hours before planning your visit.
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