Celebrate the season desert-style with festive and original holiday cheer designed to put a twinkle in your eye and keep your spirits merry.
For a hip cocktail served at one of the brightest spots in downtown Palm Springs, head to Lulu California Bistro for the Christmas Kiss, created by Lulu mixologist Michelle Gernand and made with Smirnoff caramel kiss vodka, Baileys Irish Cream, a splash of cream, and then shaken and served in a martini glass with a candy cane. You won’t need mistletoe to capture the holiday mood. 200 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-327-5858; www.lulupalmsprings.com
Feeling nostalgic? Create your own magical moment at Morgan’s in the Desert at La Quinta Resort & Club with special libations inspired by former resident Frank Capra’s movie It’s a Wonderful Life. The George Bailey — an original La Quinta-concocted cocktail made with Baileys Original, St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, white crème de cacao, and gingerbread syrup — is something to be thankful for. 49499 Eisenhower Dr., La Quinta. 760-564-7600; www.morgansinthedesert.com
Complementing its Mediterranean dishes and sophisticated atmosphere, Catalan Restaurant’s holiday drink specials include the Pumpkin Pleasure, with organic pumpkin, and the ultra-decadent Spanish Night Cap Café, featuring Illy Italian coffee, peppermint Schnapps, 100-proof Wild Turkey, Dove dark chocolate peppermints, chocolate waffle stick, and whipped cream. 70026 Hwy. 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-770-9508; www.catalanrestaurant.com
Hot spot Mitch’s on El Paseo offers Kimo’s Obsession, the signature drink that evokes a Hawaiian holiday sunset. Named after its top-notch bartender, this smooth house favorite mixes Patrón, grenadine, triple sec, orange juice, and Grand Marnier. Hau’oli Lanui! 73951 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-779-9200; www.mitchsonelpaseo.com
Rejoice in the splendor of retro chic at Sidebar in the Riviera Palm Springs Resort & Spa. Savor the colorful Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail, created with Laurent-Perrier, green crème de menthe, and pomegranate juice — a glamorous toast to Palm Springs’ elegant lifestyle. 1600 N. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-327-8311; www.psriviera.com
With a lively atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh, seasonal offerings, Eureka! makes a splash. In addition to wine and craft beers, bar director Jonny Barr stocks more than 21 small-batch American whiskeys. For the holidays, Barr sources fresh Coachella Valley dates for a whiskey-based cocktail served over fresh-brewed black tea, lemon juice, and a honey syrup. 74985 Hwy. 111, Indian Wells. 760-834-7700; www.eurekarestaurantgroup.com
Take a break from the bustle and cozy up to the bar at Tommy Bahama Restaurant. Soak in the warmth with a Coconut Eggnog Martini, a classic with an island twist that blends eggnog with Jim Beam, coconut rum, and nutmeg. Served over ice, the refreshing Frost Bite features Tommy Bahama White Sand rum, triple sec, and raspberry liqueur. 73595 El Paseo, Ste. 2200, Palm Desert. 760-836-0188; www.tommybahama.com
Tacos & Tequila at Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa serves up its own holiday take on the traditional margarita: The Santarita includes Casamigos Blanco tequila, Cointreau, fresh-squeezed lime juice, and cranberry syrup. 49500 Seminole Dr., Cabazon. 800-252-4499; www.morongo.com
VIDEO: Watch Cory Como of Catalan Restaurant in Rancho Mirage fix up a couple of holiday drinks.
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