The margarita flight at Delicias Mexican Cuisine in Desert Hot Springs.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOLLIE KIMBERLING
PALM SPRINGS
Lulu California Bistro: With a lively outdoor patio and colorful multilevel main dining room centered around a bustling bar, there’s always a party at this downtown favorite. The unmissable happy hour includes a diverse assortment of beers, bites, wines, and cocktails.
DESERT HOT SPRINGS
Delicias Mexican Cuisine: Locals love the tasty Mexican fare and craft drinks served in the spacious dining room and on the open patio at Delicias Mexican Cuisine. An extensive selection of cocktails (and a popular margarita flight!) are always tempting, as is the impressive food menu that includes all your favorites.
CATHEDRAL CITY
The Roost Lounge: Happy hour happens daily at this lively hangout. Come for the $5 house wines and well cocktails and stay for the drag shows, karaoke, and cabaret.
RANCHO MIRAGE
Desert Island Country Club: Sample oysters, sea bream crudo, and other delectable bites at Desert Island’s restaurant, The Penney, where ingredients are king. The stylish space boasts views of the 18-hole golf course, which was private since the 1970s but opened to the public in 2022.
PALM DESERT
Cowboy Cantina: Saddle up and enjoy a taste of the Southwest. Cowboy Cantina’s menu is informed by rustic cooking techniques and promises a fusion of spices in every dish. For something sweet, try the giant signature sundae, topped with ancho chile caramel sauce.
INDIAN WELLS
Vicky’s of Santa Fe: Enjoy a wide selection of wine, beer, cocktails, steaks, and fine seafood at this adobe-style hotspot on Highway 111. For your final course, decide between classics such as homemade apple pie, chocolate layer cake, and tiramisu.
LA QUINTA
Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill: Get three for one at this Old Town La Quinta favorite: amazing happy hour specials, delicious appetizers and entrées that are best passed among friends, and bartenders who can shake up almost anything you’re craving.
INDIO (TIED)
Big Rock Golf & Pub at Indian Springs: A favorite among locals for live music, stiff drinks, and casual eats, this pub overlooking a stunning public golf course doubles as a music memorabilia museum. Grab a drink and challenge your buds to a game of corn hole in the outdoor beer garden.
June Hill’s Table: Trilogy at The Polo Club may be members only, but its healthful restaurant is open to the public. Dine on seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients while enjoying stunning views from the patio.
Cork & Fork: The lively local gathering spot excels in items you can pass around (especially during happy hour, when small plates are 20 percent off). Try the crispy cauliflower, deviled eggs, and butter-poached lobster shooters.
COACHELLA
Augustine Casino: Experience the excitement of gaming at Augustine Casino, a favorite among locals for loose slots. Sip signature cocktails at Ayily Bar and savor delicious eats all day (including popular brunch, burgers, and dessert) at Café 54.