We've been vacationing in Palm Springs 2-3 times a year for the past 25 years. During our many, many stays, we tried and sampled countless restaurants from fancy and pricy, to mom-and-pop shops, and to everything in between. Some are still thriving. Others have left quietly. The rest are hanging on. Recently, we discovered Desert Moon on a recommendation. It's a fairly new restaurant that serves a fresh take on Latin Asian fusion with some French and Italian influences.
I have been to many similar style restaurants around the country and a few in Coachella Valley, but none could match Desert Moon's combination of quality, flavor, taste, hospitality and price. Let's begin with quality, flavor and taste. We started our meal with Ahi Tuna Wontons and Crab Cakes. I wasn't sure what to expect when I saw Ahi Tuna Wontons on the menu. This dish tasted so fresh, sweet, crisp and slightly acidic, leaving us wanting lots and lots more! And the crab cakes were top notch as well.
Next on the table were the Lobster Bisque and California Beet Salad. Both were excellent and on par with Gordon Ramsey's Hell's Kitchen in Las Vegas, which we recently patronized.
On to the mains. We ordered Shrimp Risotto and Pork Shank Ossobuco. My husband said the shrimp was cooked so perfectly that it's probably the best he's ever had. The risotto was creamy and had a real depth of flavor. My ossobuco was excellent. Super tender with just the right amount of trimmings. Although I would've liked more vegetables and potatoes, the girth of my belly communicated otherwise.
Finally, a great dining experience isn't complete without exceptional service and top-notch hospitality. From the moment we walked in, to the last steps we walked out of Desert Moon, we were greeted, treated, and served like VIP. I can see and hear the crowded dining room full of laughter and energy often lacking in a more upscale establishment, where the ambiance and formality just suck the life out of a special meal. Customers were able to be jovial, be romantic and be themselves and still be respectful without restraint. The staff, especially Serge, was extra attentive. Serge went out of his way to make sure our dining experience was the most excellent and special one. Serge had a non-pretentious and genuine demeanor coupled with a smile that melts ice instantly. When at Desert Moon, ask for Serge!
Last but not least, Desert Moon is one of the few finer dining experiences that won't break the bank thanks partly to their budget friendly three-course menu. We've been to hundreds of restaurants with a similar menu that cost, in my guestimation (yes, this is a word), minimally 20-33% more. Our total (I won't repeat everything we ordered) including a dessert, a cocktail and taxes came out to a mere $115 + change! That's a very reasonable barrier for entry. read more