Palm Springs Restaurant Search

The Desert's Most Highly Awarded Restaurant

To savor unforgettable continental cuisine in the most exquisite restaurant in the desert, Wally’s Desert Turtle is a must. The most highly awarded restaurant in the desert is the proud recipient of the prestigious Mobil Travel Four Star Award, AAA Four Diamond Award, and the DiRoNA Award, to name a few.

This magnificent restaurant was built by Wally Botello, the founder of the famed Velvet Turtle chain and is now owned and operated by his son Michael, who carries on the family tradition with grace and charm. Entering over twinkling lights, you will be swept away by the spectacular design by Steven Chase. The beveled mirrored ceilings, Peruvian artifacts, and hand-painted murals create a warm and elegant ambiance in which to savor the culinary creations of Executive Chef Julio Hawkins. His specialties include Escargots Forestiére or Wild Mushroom Soup, followed by Wally’s Signature entrées of Roasted Colorado Lamb Rack or Sautéed Imported Dover Sole, and for dessert, the legendary Chocolate or Gran Marnier Soufflé.

Wally’s serves dinner nightly, with piano entertainment. Holidays are very special at Wally’s, where traditional fare is served on Thanksgiving and the regular menu is offered on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The New Year’s Eve Gala Celebration with entertainment and dancing is one you will never forget. Every Friday during season, Wally’s has become known for its fashion show luncheons beginning at 11:30 a.m.

For private functions or special occasions, two semiprivate rooms offer intimacy for guest enjoying the fabulous Wally’s experience. If you wish total seclusion, there is the elegant Sable Room and the Randy Patton-designed Mirage Room. For the ultimate party, the entire restaurant is available for your dining and dancing pleasure, or Wally’s catered events will take this beautiful dining experience into your home or venue of your choice.

A visit to the desert will not be complete without the experience of Wally’s Desert Turtle, the area’s finest restaurant since 1978. Serving dinner nightly beginning at 6 p.m.

“Celebrating our 32nd season. Exquisite continental cuisine, elegant surroundings, and a devoted team of people whose legendary attention to detail has given Wally’s a recognized trademark of service.”

Text by Marsha Cockins