Johnny Costa’s Ristorante in Palm Springs.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOLLIE KIMBERLING
PALM SPRINGS
Johnny Costa’s Ristorante: Where else can you dine at a restaurant founded by Frank Sinatra’s late pal and personal chef? Savor pastas like lobster ravioli or invoke Ol’ Blue Eyes and order his faves: linguine with clams or steak with peppers.
DESERT HOT SPRINGS
Capri Italian Restaurant: Transport your taste buds to Italy without ever leaving the desert. Authentic Italian flavors, from pasta dishes to hearty chicken and steak entrées, pair well with Capri’s great wine list.
CATHEDRAL CITY
Trilussa Ristorante: Enjoy a Lady and the Tramp moment at this popular restaurant. With fresh twists on classic Italian dishes (like vegan sausage with zoodles) alongside the classics, it’s a dining experience that combines tradition with innovation.
RANCHO MIRAGE
Norma’s Italian Kitchen: Indulge in comforting Italian American classics like pizza and pasta served on red-and-white checkered tablecloths at this restaurant tucked in a shopping center along Highway 111. Save room for cannoli, tiramisu, cheesecake, or a divine limoncello parfait.
PALM DESERT
Ristorante Mamma Gina: Established in Florence, Italy, in 1956, the family business expanded in 1986 to this inviting space on El Paseo, where traditional Tuscan dishes (think homemade pasta and tiramisu) begin with the highest quality ingredients.
LA QUINTA
Enzo’s Bistro & Bar: Savor comfort food like pasta topped with handmade meatballs or a delicious pizza and top it off with a slice of tiramisu.
INDIO
Mario’s Italian Café: Since 1972, this Italian café has been a beloved institution in the Coachella Valley. Founder Mario Del Guidice’s family recipes delight guests at all seven locations.
