Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Cathedral City

27 restaurants available nearby

1. Willie's

4.8

Exceptional(1358)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Rancho Mirage

Booked 22 times today

Willie's in Rancho Mirage offers an exceptional dining experience, highlighting the best of Contemporary American cuisine. Helmed by the talented Executive Chef Richard Perez, the menu features classic dishes with innovative twists that delight the palate. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked steaks" and "creative cocktails," encapsulating the essence of modern fine dining. The ambiance combines elegance with warmth, making every meal memorable. With glowing testimonials like "food fresh and delicious" and "service impeccable," Willie's stands out as a culinary gem. Whether it's for a sophisticated dinner or a relaxed afternoon tea, Willie's consistently exceeds expectations, promising an unmatched dining experience in the heart of Rancho Mirage.

A photo of Wally's Desert Turtle restaurant

2. Wally's Desert Turtle

4.7

Exceptional(3828)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Rancho Mirage

Booked 23 times today

Wally's Desert Turtle in Rancho Mirage epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine, offering "The Finest Dining in the Coachella Valley." This celebrated establishment delights patrons with a "refreshed and re-imagined take on Modern California Cuisine," earning rave reviews for its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing from ranches, farms, and fisheries. Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its exceptional dishes, such as the perfectly cooked Dover sole and the heavenly soufflés, encapsulating the local flavors and innovative culinary techniques that define Californian dining. The ambiance, highlighted by live music and elegant decor, rounds out the truly Californian dining experience, making every visit to Wally's Desert Turtle "a great night out."

3. Cuistot

4.7

Exceptional(2872)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palm Desert

Booked 20 times today

Discover the unparalleled charm of Cuistot in Palm Desert, where the essence of French American cuisine is celebrated with finesse. Nestled at the scenic crossroads of Highway 111 and El Paseo, this culinary gem has consistently garnered top accolades, including a perfect 100 for food by Conde Nast Traveler and high Zagat ratings. Guests rave about the "outstanding meal with superb service," and the "exceptional dining experience" featuring classics like Dover Sole and the beloved mushroom soup. Cuistot's elegant dining rooms and starlit terrace overlooking a desert oasis provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal that masterfully blends Californian flair with French sophistication. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful dinner, Cuistot promises a dining experience that is both "absolutely spectacular" and authentically French American.

A photo of Cork Tree Restaurant restaurant

4. Cork Tree Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(4145)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palm Desert

Booked 42 times today

Cork Tree Restaurant in Palm Desert stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, deeply rooted in the richness of California's local produce and wines. Patrons consistently rave about the authenticity and quality of its dishes, describing them as "beautiful in presentation and delicious" and "a wonderful experience." The restaurant showcases a menu that creatively captures the essence of the region, highlighted by dishes like the "Ahi Tuna" and "Cioppino," which are prepared beautifully and have received glowing accolades. The ambiance, from its intimate round booths to the starlit patio dining, enhances the dining experience, making Cork Tree a true gem for those seeking a taste of Contemporary American cuisine with a Californian flair.

A photo of Waldo's Ristorante restaurant

5. Waldo's Ristorante

4.6

Exceptional(885)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palm Desert

Booked 43 times today

Waldo's Ristorante in Palm Desert is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, providing diners with an exquisite taste of Italy's rich culinary heritage blended with modern flair. Esteemed for its "delicious, exceptionally well-prepared food" in an atmosphere that echoes the great Italian-American restaurants of mid-20th century New York, Waldo's has quickly become a beloved destination. Patrons consistently praise the restaurant for its "excellent pasta that is made on the premises" and dishes like the "Osso Bucco so amazing!" The service is frequently highlighted as "phenomenal" and "very attentive," ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, Waldo's promises an "outstanding" encounter with the best of Contemporary Italian delights.

A photo of bluEmber at Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa restaurant

6. bluEmber at Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

4.2

Awesome(846)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Rancho Mirage

Booked 13 times today

Discover the epitome of California cuisine at bluEmber at Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage. Celebrated for its innovative approach to New American dishes, bluEmber offers a culinary adventure that features the freshest local ingredients. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked filet mignon" and the "delicious salmon," which highlight the restaurant's commitment to quality. The vibrant atmosphere, from the award-winning patio to the lively live music nights, amplifies the dining experience. As one guest puts it, bluEmber is a place where "the food and service are great," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and exceptional Californian fare.

A photo of Holiday Dining & Events at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa restaurant

7. Holiday Dining & Events at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa

4.2

Awesome(12)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Rancho Mirage

Make memories to last a lifetime when you join Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa for holidays and events - located just 11 miles from downtown Palm Springs. We invite you to browse holidays and events below and join us for a special experience. Upcoming 2021 Holiday Dining and events include Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Stay tuned and check back in for upcoming menus and event information. For questions, please call the concierge at 760-862-4518.

8. Eight4Nine

4.7

Exceptional(5103)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palm Springs

Booked 92 times today

At Eight4Nine in Palm Springs, the seafood cuisine is a celebration of taste and quality, earning rave reviews for dishes like the "exceptional Chilean sea bass" and "very fresh oysters." Guests consistently praise not only the delicious meals but the beautiful presentation, with one diner highlighting, "The sea bass was so good!" The restaurant's commitment to excellence is reflected in their use of fresh ingredients, ensuring each seafood dish is a culinary delight. Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere or the attentive service, Eight4Nine stands out as a top destination for seafood lovers looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Palm Springs.

A photo of Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate restaurant

9. Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate

4.7

Exceptional(4148)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palm Springs

Booked 43 times today

Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate in Palm Springs is hailed as a beacon of Californian cuisine, embodying the spirit and flavors of California with its innovative takes on traditional American fare. Nestled in the historic Ingleside Inn, this restaurant is more than just a dining spot; it's a culinary experience wrapped in "old Hollywood vibe" and modern elegance. Patrons rave about its "perfect Palm Springs vibe" and dishes like the Steak Diane and Chilean Sea Bass, prepared with a finesse that matches the ambiance. With glowing reviews such as "one of the best meals I have ever had in Palm Springs" and service described as "5 Star," Melvyn's offers a dining experience that's both timeless and exemplary. Whether it’s the lively Sunday music or the tableside Steak Diane, every detail contributes to a memorable Californian dining adventure.

A photo of Copley's on Palm Canyon restaurant

10. Copley's on Palm Canyon

4.8

Exceptional(6529)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palm Springs

Booked 60 times today

Copley's on Palm Canyon, nestled in the historic estate of Cary Grant in Palm Springs, is a beacon of exceptional Continental cuisine. This award-winning restaurant dazzles with its blend of American dishes infused with European and tropical flavors. As one guest raves, it offers "one of the best restaurant experiences I can remember," highlighting the exquisite Loch Duart Scottish Salmon and Niman Ranch Pork Chop. Whether dining under the stars on the romantic patio or inside amidst a friendly atmosphere, each meal is a testament to Executive Chef Andrew Copley's 20 years of global expertise. With accolades for both its culinary creations and impeccable service, Copley's continues to be a standout destination for those seeking a unique and sophisticated dining experience in the heart of Palm Springs.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
JimVIP
Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas Eve dinner experience. Starting with the best up Manhattan I’ve ever had. Service by Moses (good server name for this occasion) was excellent. And then the food. Best lobster crab cakes in the desert and a shared ribeye. Perfection all. So much food we even had take home left overs.
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Cork Tree RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Palm Desert
•
4.7
D
Dawn
Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Willie’s Modern Fare is simply excellency from beginning of experience to end experience. We dined for our Christmas Eve celebration for this review and previously for our wedding dinner last year and other times for just a great meal. This restaurant never disappoints. The owner is also always present and makes sure everything is in order and greets his guests personally. As for the food last night: The onion gratin soup is to die for…same for the filet, perfectly cooked and the baked alaska with cherry gelato inside, delicious. Service, impeccable Willie’s happy hour, brunch are the same high quality and service. He also offers an afternoon tea on Sundays i believe. I am a fan and if it isn’t the best restaurant in the greater Coachella area, it is one of the top 3
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Willie'sPrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Rancho Mirage
•
4.8
R
Robin
Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We live in Palm Springs and rarely venture out to eat. This was our first time eating at Wally's Desert Turtle and we were all very impressed with excellent service/staff members, food offerings, and a terrific wine selection, along with some wonderful cocktail options in addition to the classics. We will definitely be coming back!
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Wally's Desert TurtlePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Rancho Mirage
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable Diner
Hawaii •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Excellent food in a pretty environment with friendly staff. Excellent.
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bluEmber at Rancho Las Palmas Resort & SpaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Rancho Mirage
•
4.2
OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 23 Nov 2023
For years we have gone to the JW Marriott but the experience at the Omni was a 1000% better. We were not rushed. Previously at the Marriott it was always chaos and over-crowded. The Omni had an amazing kids section which kept our nephew busy and fed while we could enjoy our meal. The food selection was fantastic and the staff was so kind and excited we were there. A+ for Thanksgiving Dinner.
More info
Holiday Dining & Events at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and SpaPrice: Very Expensive• American• Rancho Mirage
•
4.2

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Cathedral City

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Cathedral City

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27 restaurants available nearby

1. Willie's

2. Wally's Desert Turtle

3. Cuistot

4. Cork Tree Restaurant

5. Waldo's Ristorante

6. bluEmber at Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

7. Holiday Dining & Events at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa

8. Eight4Nine

9. Melvyn's at the Ingleside Estate

10. Copley's on Palm Canyon

See what locals rave about

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