The Cool Kid’s Guide to Modernism Week

Where I’ll eat, play, hang, and learn

Ebony March Restaurants

Modernism Week caters to architecture junkies who filter into Palm Springs from Feb. 14-24.

Oh, who am I kidding? This is the week that I get to relive my many years as a hipster kid in New York and Los Angeles, without leaving the desert. People of all ages and professions are sure to attend, but I’m interested in experiencing the event, my way.

With my friend Davey in tow, here’s what I’m planning to check out:

Fuel up for Modernism Week sightseeing at Jake’s (664 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs). This is a great stop. Its laid-back, retro ambiance and California-light menu are perfect for lunch with friends. Not only that, but the Jake’s crowd is often packed with hip, young creative types, so it feels like home. Jake’s is one of the Uptown restaurants catching tremendous buzz with Palm Springs locals. Look for me in the corner, nursing my Miami Vice Salad.

Cool houses, cool houses, everywhere, cool houses. But what about the people behind the designs? Just Fabulous — book store and gift boutique — (515 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-864-1300; www.bjustfabulous.com) hosts San Francisco-based architect Orlando Diaz-Azcuy from 3-5 p.m. Feb. 20. Get here early to meet this visionary, who is the subject of Diane Dorrans Saeks’ book.

Now that all the buildings have been seen, photographed, discussed and tweeted, it’s time to blow off some steam. Stop by the Ace Hotel and Swim Club (701 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs) for Discotheque in the Amigo Room. This DJ night is legit! Kim Anh, Alf Alpha and others spin here and it’s a cool place to commune with Palm Springs’ version of the Brooklyn or Silver Lake crowd.

Spot me at KCRW’s panel at the Ace when Frances Anderton chats with Moby about his love of Modernism from 2-3 p.m. Feb. 23. As a film school student, Moby left an indelible mark on my work by offering his music for use on films via mobygratis.com. I’d eaten at his restaurant, Teany, and have seen him live in concert at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York. His visionary take on modern architecture can’t be missed.

Now that you know what I’m looking forward to, give me a shout when you see me out and about.