The story
La Quinta Cliffhouse Grill and Bar has long been a Coachella Valley favorite, drawing locals and visitors alike to its cliffside setting on Highway 111, just minutes from Palm Springs. The restaurant describes itself simply as a place to "eat, drink, and gather" — and that straightforward ethos shows in everything from the warm service to the approachable yet carefully executed menu.
The kitchen focuses on classic American cuisine: steak, pasta, and fresh seafood, prepared with fresh ingredients and served with genuine care. The menu is thoughtfully composed rather than sprawling — the kind of food that suits a weekday dinner just as well as a special occasion. A sunset dinner offering two courses makes early evening particularly compelling, while the bar program keeps things lively with creative cocktails alongside the food.
Wine is taken seriously here. The Cliffhouse holds a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, a recognition that reflects the depth and curation of its wine selection. Wednesday evenings bring half-priced bottled wine all night, which gives regulars a reliable reason to return. Guests who prefer to bring their own bottle are welcome to do so for a corkage fee of $30, with a two-bottle maximum.
The restaurant offers several distinct settings: a cliffside patio for al fresco dining under the desert sky, a warm and vibrant dining room, and a bar well-suited for a casual stop. Named spaces like the Point Happy Room and the McGinnis Patio suggest a venue with character and some history behind it. The atmosphere reads as upscale casual — relaxed enough to feel welcoming, polished enough to feel like a proper night out.
For anyone looking for dependable American cuisine with a strong wine program in the greater Palm Springs area, La Quinta Cliffhouse delivers exactly what it promises.
Recognition
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Location