Discover the Best Breakfast in Palm Springs: Top Spots & Must-Try Dishes

Short answer: Best Breakfast in Palm Springs

Palm Springs offers a remarkable variety of breakfast options. Top recommendations include FARM, Palm Springs, Cheeky’s Palm Springs, and Sherman’s Deli & Bakery, all praised for fresh ingredients, appealing atmosphere, and standout dishes that capture the local desert‑style morning vibe. With options ranging from artisanal French-inspired breakfasts to hearty New York-style deli classics, Palm Springs caters to all tastes, budgets, and dining experiences.

What are the top-rated breakfast spots in Palm Springs?

Looking for the best breakfast spots in Palm Springs? Your search ends here. This sun‑soaked desert city has evolved into a vibrant culinary destination. From refined garden‑cafés to lively brunch hangouts, retro delis, and casual bagel shops, there is something to satisfy everyone’s morning cravings.

Breakfast in Palm Springs is not merely about starting the day; it is an experience. The city’s dry, sunny climate makes outdoor dining an integral part of the breakfast experience, with many restaurants offering patios, shaded gardens, and desert views. Morning dining here often pairs with live music, artful presentation, and innovative dishes that reflect the region’s growing focus on fresh, local ingredients.

1. FARM – Palm Springs

Located at 6 La Plaza in downtown Palm Springs, FARM delivers a rustic French countryside café experience in the middle of the California desert. Lush greenery, fragrant flowers, and well-maintained patios make the environment feel like a hidden oasis. Many visitors describe it as a “transportive effect, as if you’ve slipped away to the South of France.”

For breakfast, patrons recommend the croque madame, a French classic with a perfectly cooked egg atop ham and Gruyère, served with toasted artisan bread. Seasonal egg dishes, made with farm-fresh ingredients sourced locally, showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Other favourites include the quiche of the day and fresh fruit plates, paired with freshly brewed coffee or specialty teas.

The tranquil setting, with ample outdoor seating, makes it ideal for leisurely mornings. Weekends can be busy, so arriving early ensures patio seating and a relaxed start to the day.

2. Cheeky’s Palm Springs

Cheeky’s is located at 622 N Palm Canyon Drive and has become synonymous with Palm Springs’ modern breakfast scene. Known for inventive dishes, bold flavours, and a lively social atmosphere, Cheeky’s consistently ranks among the city’s best breakfast and brunch destinations.

Signature dishes include the bacon flight, which features several distinct types of bacon served together, and corn pancakes, a sweet and savory combination often topped with seasonal fruit. The menu rotates frequently to include fresh, seasonal ingredients, keeping regular visitors excited. Brunch enthusiasts can enjoy local craft coffee, fresh juices, and mimosa specials to complement their meals.

The venue is ideal for both social gatherings and casual breakfasts, but due to its popularity, arriving early, often before 9 a.m., is recommended to avoid long lines.

3. Sherman’s Deli & Bakery

At 401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Sherman’s transports diners to a retro New York-style deli, complete with massive portions, nostalgic décor, and an impressive pastry display. This establishment has become a mainstay for locals and visitors craving hearty breakfast classics.

Menu highlights include stacked eggs, golden hash-browns, crisp latkes, and generous portions of smoked salmon or pastrami. For dessert lovers, Sherman’s pastry case offers cakes, rugelach, and Danish pastries that are nearly as popular as the savory items. Its New York-style coffee pairs perfectly with the bold, hearty dishes.

Sherman’s is perfect for those who enjoy a filling breakfast with classic American flavours and a retro diner ambience. Families and large groups appreciate the generous portions and friendly service.

4. Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar & Restaurant

Bongo Johnny’s, located at 301 N Palm Canyon Drive, offers a creative mix of American and Mexican breakfast favourites with a modern twist. Diners often recommend the breakfast burrito, made with scrambled eggs, avocado, fresh salsa, and cheese, as well as the blackened salmon Benedict, which pairs perfectly with their signature hollandaise sauce.

Bongo Johnny’s stands out for its late‑morning hours, often extending service until 4 p.m., making it a flexible option for brunch lovers. The patio area is lively, with colourful décor and an energetic ambiance suitable for groups or solo diners looking for a vibrant breakfast experience. Brunch-style beverages, including bottomless mimosas, complement the hearty breakfast menu.

5. Townie Bagels

For a more casual experience, Townie Bagels in the Warm Sands neighbourhood is a local favourite. The shop offers an array of bagels, from traditional sesame and poppy seed to inventive options such as black Russian and olive-fennel. Bagel sandwiches, filled with smoked salmon, cream cheese, or house-roasted meats, provide a quick, satisfying breakfast option.

Townie Bagels also serves espresso, cold brew, and freshly squeezed juices, making it perfect for guests on the go or those looking to enjoy breakfast outdoors while soaking in the Palm Springs sun. It is particularly popular among locals for its consistent quality and speed of service.

Are there any must‑try dishes or specialties?

Each Palm Springs breakfast spot has signature items that make it worth visiting. From sweet to savoury, here are some recommendations:

• FARM – Palm Springs: This French-inspired café is known for its fresh, farm-to-table ingredients and elegant presentation. Signature dishes include the croque madame, a perfectly toasted sandwich layered with ham, Gruyère cheese, and a lightly fried egg, drizzled with creamy béchamel. Seasonal egg dishes, such as herbed omelettes or baked eggs with vegetables, highlight locally sourced produce. Quiches, often featuring flavours like mushroom and Gruyère or tomato and chèvre, pair beautifully with fresh fruit plates or a side of artisan bread. Beverages like carefully brewed artisan coffee, matcha lattes, or herbal teas enhance the French-inspired morning experience.
• Cheeky’s Palm Springs: Famous for inventive and bold breakfast dishes, Cheeky’s offers the bacon flight, a playful sampler of different bacon flavours including maple-glazed, black pepper, and candied varieties. Their corn pancakes, lightly sweet with a hint of cornmeal texture, are often topped with seasonal fruit or a drizzle of local honey. Seasonal specials rotate frequently, incorporating ingredients such as citrus, figs, or avocado for a fresh twist. Freshly squeezed juices, mimosa flights, or coffee creations complement the menu, making it a favourite for brunch enthusiasts and social breakfasts.
• Sherman’s Deli & Bakery: For those craving hearty, nostalgic breakfasts, Sherman’s excels with classic New York-style dishes. Think eggs cooked to order, golden hash-browns, crisp latkes, or a stacked plate of smoked salmon with bagels and cream cheese. The bakery case is equally impressive, featuring towering pastries, cakes, and cookies, which provide a sweet finish or a takeaway treat. The generous portions and comforting flavours make it a must-visit for diners who enjoy filling, classic breakfasts that pair perfectly with a strong cup of coffee.
• Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar & Restaurant: Known for its vibrant, bold American/Mexican breakfast fare, Bongo Johnny’s offers dishes such as the breakfast burrito, packed with scrambled eggs, avocado, salsa, and cheese, or the blackened salmon Benedict, which combines perfectly poached eggs with smoky salmon on a toasted English muffin and velvety hollandaise. Patrons often pair these dishes with bottomless mimosas or specialty coffee drinks. The colourful and energetic setting makes it ideal for lively weekend brunches or social gatherings.
• Townie Bagels: This casual yet beloved spot focuses on bagels and breakfast sandwiches made with creative combinations of flavours. The Black Russian bagel or olive-fennel bagel sandwiches are highly recommended for those looking for a unique take on a classic breakfast item. Their offerings include smoked salmon, egg, and cheese variations or hearty vegetarian options. Complement a bagel with espresso, cold brew coffee, or a fresh juice for a quick but satisfying start to the day. Townie Bagels is perfect for takeaway or a casual breakfast enjoyed in the desert sun.

Beyond these, the Palm Springs breakfast scene includes international flavours, plant-based options, gluten-free items, and dessert-inspired breakfasts, reflecting the city’s diverse and innovative culinary landscape.

Additional context and trends for 2025

Palm Springs has evolved into a top culinary destination, particularly for breakfast and brunch. The Coachella Valley region now boasts an emerging reputation for high-quality daytime dining experiences.

Key trends include:

• Outdoor Patio Dining: Shaded patios, lush garden seating, and desert vistas make breakfast more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
• High-Quality Local Ingredients: Artisanal breads, farm-fresh eggs, and locally sourced produce elevate the culinary standard.
• Extended Brunch Hours: Many venues blend breakfast and brunch with mid-morning to early afternoon hours, accommodating late risers.
• Variety of Styles and Prices: Options range from quick-service bagel shops to full-service garden cafés to retro delis, appealing to diverse budgets and tastes.
• Menu Innovation: Seasonal dishes, inventive flavour combinations, and alternative dietary offerings such as plant-based or gluten-free items are increasingly common.

These trends highlight the city’s focus on creating memorable experiences, combining exceptional food with ambiance, service, and presentation.

Why this matters for your visit

Selecting the right breakfast spot in Palm Springs can define the tone of your day. Whether preparing for outdoor adventures, shopping trips, poolside relaxation, or sightseeing, a satisfying breakfast is essential.

Tips for making the most of your morning meal:

• Arrive Early: Popular spots such as Cheeky’s and FARM fill quickly, especially on weekends. Early arrival guarantees patio seating and a more relaxed experience.
• Mix Ambience with Cuisine: Casual options like Townie Bagels work well for quick bites, while FARM offers photo-friendly, leisurely brunches.
• Plan for Parking and Crowds: Downtown Palm Springs can be busy; allocating extra time for parking is wise.
• Explore Beyond Classics: Don’t hesitate to try innovative international or seasonal dishes alongside traditional favourites.
• Consider After-Breakfast Plans: Some diners transition into lunch or brunch-style cocktails, so plan accordingly for time and dining preferences.

Start Your Morning Right

Palm Springs offers a rich and diverse breakfast scene, perfect for locals and visitors alike. Whether enjoying a serene garden-style brunch at FARM, indulging in the playful bacon flight at Cheeky’s, diving into a classic New York-style breakfast at Sherman’s, sampling the creative offerings at Bongo Johnny’s, or grabbing a fresh bagel at Townie Bagels, the city caters to every taste and occasion.

Breakfast here is more than food; it is part of the Palm Springs experience. The combination of fresh ingredients, innovative menus, charming ambiance, and attentive service creates memorable mornings. Visitors are encouraged to explore, savour, and embrace each unique offering, making breakfast a highlight of their desert escape.

Make the most of your visit: choose a spot, enjoy a signature dish, and let the flavours, textures, and setting contribute to a morning worth remembering in Palm Springs.