Palm Springs, CA
Just off the well-trodden paths of downtown Palm Springs, tucked along Belardo Road, lies one of the desert’s best-kept secrets: Chi Chi’s at the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows. Set within lush, manicured grounds and framed by three sparkling pools, Chi Chi’s offers more than just a meal—it’s a full sensory escape.
Whether you’re lounging poolside with a cocktail, brunching within the gorgeous grounds of the hotel, or unwinding with an elegant dinner, Chi Chi’s delivers on both flavor and atmosphere
Chi Chi’s fresh, California-forward menu is all about balance—think indulgent flavors with a health-conscious twist. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. for breakfast, the property welcomes early risers and spa-goers alike with bright, satisfying morning bites. From there, the pool becomes the heart of the action, with food and drink service running 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and an all-day sense of relaxed sophistication.
The poolside menu includes crave-worthy favorites like Guacamole & Salsa, Blackened Cauliflower Tacos with chipotle cabbage slaw and salsa roja, and Waffle Fries seasoned with malt vinegar dust and served with a punchy dill pickle ranch.
Lunch, served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., features hearty yet refreshing fare such as the Avalon Cobb Salad, the signature Chi Chi Smash Cheeseburger (with GF bread available), and Blackened Salmon Tacos, topped with slaw, roasted salsa, and pico de gallo. Vegetarian? Swap in blackened cauliflower for a flavorful, plant-based option.
415 South Belardo Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262
http://www.avalon-hotel.com/palm-springs/chi-chi/
Happy Hour rolls in daily from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., offering the perfect excuse to enjoy a cocktail—or two—while soaking in the scenery. As day turns to dusk, dinner service from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. invites guests to linger longer with standout entrées like the juicy Steak Frites with chimichurri and fries, Ricotta Gnocchi featuring grilled trumpet mushrooms and toma cheese, and the ever-popular Brick Chicken, bold with a Calabrian chile rub and served with crispy waffle fries.
Dinner at Chi Chi’s (served 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.) turns up the indulgence with thoughtfully curated entrées that balance bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Highlights include:
- STEAK FRITES – Tender Teres Major steak paired with charred shishito chimichurri and golden fries, a classic elevated with a zesty, herbaceous kick.
- BRICK CHICKEN – Juicy, crispy-skinned chicken boldly seasoned with a Calabrian chile rub and served alongside irresistible waffle fries.
- RICOTTA GNOCCHI (V) – Pillowy house-made gnocchi tossed with grilled trumpet mushrooms, sweet cippolini onions, fragrant basil pistou, and finished with melty Toma cheese.
Each dish is crafted to pair beautifully with Chi Chi’s curated selection of wines, cocktails, and shareable starters—making it the perfect destination for a romantic dinner, a stylish night out, or a laid-back evening under the stars.
So whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor searching for that quintessential desert moment, Chi Chi’s delivers with style, flavor, and a touch of magic—off the beaten path, yet right where you want to be.