Eating Out in Palm Springs with Kids

On a recent trip to Palm Springs with my son, I was pleasantly surprised by the plethora of family-friendly restaurant options. Dealing with a picky eater is never easy so I was thrilled to discover a variety of types of cuisine choices. While each one varied in décor and style, they all focused on high quality food and had a diverse selection of offerings for kids. While there were times we had to debate and analyze his final choices, he was ultimately always satisfied.

Here’s a list of kid-friendly restaurants for your next visit to Palm Springs with the kids, tested by both my nine-year old son and myself:

Acqua Pazza

Right in Rancho Village across the street from our hotel is this cozy pizzeria called Acqua Pazza, a California Bistro. They use fresh ingredients and have a really great, reasonable kid’s menu. My son was thankful for his simple bowl of mac n’ cheese while I tried their home made white chese pizza with figs. Acqua Pazza is located at 71-800 Highway 11 and is open seven days a week.

Lulu California Palm Springs

The sister restaurant of Acqua Pazza, Lulu, has a similar menu but a very different style. Located downtown, it is more retro, old Hollywood style. There are plenty of options for the young ones and we both loved the trendy, California vibe. My son had a bowl of baked ziti while I munched on a raw tuna wrap (in lettuce). I was grateful for the healthy choices and generous portions. Lulu is located at 200 South Palm Canyon Drive and is open seven days a week.

TRIO

Our favorite meal in Palm Springs was at TRIO. Located in an historic mid-century building in Palm Springs sophisticated Uptown Design District, TRIO is simply divine. We took advantage of their lunch special ($19 prix fixe) and happily munched on hummus, soy cevice, shepherd’s pie, fish tacos, bread pudding and home made brownies. We loved the art deco decor and their commitment to green and the community. There were many ladies who lunch dining near us, and if I lived in Palm Springs, I’d be one of them. TRIO is located at 707 North Palm Canyon Drive and is open seven days a week.

Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe

Located in the Gardens on El Paseo, Wilma & Frieda offers classic American comfort food. They offer a wide variety of melts, burgers, sandwiches and salads. The restaurant is homage to the owner’s two grandmothers and has a bit of a comfy, throwback feeling. It’s located at 73-575 El Paseo Drive and is open daily from 7am to 2pm.

Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza and Grill

Also located in the Gardens is Sammy’s, a rustic pizza house with other options for non-pizza eaters. It’s located at 73-575 El Paseo Drive and is great for pizza obsessed kids (like mine).

KOBE Japanese Steak House

Located in a replica of a Japanese country inn, KOBE serves hearty portions of Japanese fare. I ordered the vegetarian/tofu issue and the portion was more than generous. My son ordered chicken, which he devoured. We topped it off with a choice of green tea ice cream or orange sherbet. Located at 69838 California 111 in Rancho Mirage, KOBE offers kids a visual Hibaci experience.