Complaining about the morning rush is a Palm Desert ritual—especially now, when the line for coffee rivals the wait for a tee time. Fortunately, this desert oasis serves up more than just sunshine. Whether you’re fueling up before hitting the links or seeking the perfect post-yoga brunch, we’ve found the spots worth waking up early for. These breakfast havens are all within a short drive, with an emphasis on where to start your desert day right.
Goody’s Cafe Thousand Palms
$ | (760) 343-7710 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of great breakfast spots just off Interstate 10 in Palm Desert—which, to be honest, looks like a desert oasis turned into a highway exit. But make Goody’s Cafe a priority. It’s perfect for early mornings with its clean atmosphere, great for long drives thanks to its truckers discount, and ideal for any time of day because they serve an absolutely phenomenal veggie burrito.
Cups cafe
$ | (760) 200-0333 | WEBSITE
You can’t miss the cheerful buzz of this breakfast spot as you pull into Palm Desert. It has the words “Cups Cafe” written so prominently one could almost mistake it for the name of the neighborhood—and it might as well be. The bustling cafe serves the best chilaquiles verdes in the area (and for under $16). They’re fresh and flavorful with crispy tortilla chips, and any coffee lovers out there should take full advantage of the caramel and horchata lattes featured on every menu.
Michael’s Cafe
$ | (760) 321-7197 | WEBSITE
It’s safe to say after being out in the desert sun all morning, sometimes we just want to enjoy breakfast and the comfort of being with friends. At this bustling all-day cafe in Palm Desert, you can do just that. Spend quality time with their homemade-style dishes, which include creamy, flavorful biscuits and gravy and delicious lox and bagels with crispy tater tots that soak up the flavors like little sponges.
IHOP
$ | (760) 770-5686 | WEBSITE
There’s a good chance of a wait here—but you already are used to that for IHOP, so what’s a few more minutes if great crepes are involved? Other dishes like ham and birthday ice cream are great as well, but we all know you’re here for those crepes. Get several orders, and don’t forget to add the attentive service.
Breakfast Republic
$ | (760) 690-3550 | WEBSITE
Fair warning, this is mainly convenient as a morning destination, rather than a (very) quiet spot. But we can’t stress enough that this Breakfast Republic is worth a little extra patience. There’s a decadent duo of French toast with peanut butter, bananas, and bacon perfection. Dietary needs are already locked in. And both options for breakfast—protein scramble or vegan pancakes—are excellent. Dine-in? Phenomenal. Takeout? Also, phenomenal.
The Palms Cafe
$ | (760) 770-1614 | WEBSITE
While it rarely gets truly frigid here in the desert, whenever the morning chill makes you crave something warm and comforting, it’s time to head out and find a spot. If you drive over to Rancho and pull up to The Palms Cafe, you’ll find their quality blueberry pancakes, scrambled eggs with sausage, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Gather your appetite, order a hearty breakfast, and forget that you have any other plans for the rest of the morning.
Paradise Cove Cafe
$ | (760) 779-1617 | WEBSITE
Almost everything at this cozy breakfast spot with a popular outside area is fantastic—and under $15. Expertly prepared chorizo omelettes could satisfy you for breakfast and brunch, blueberry pancakes with golden-brown edges rival those of a dedicated pancake house. And those talked-about Golden Gate Burgers continue to be among the top choices on the menu.
Restaurante Los Primos
$ | (442) 282-1148 | WEBSITE
Take about three steps off the main drag in Palm Desert and discover one of the better things to ever happen to a small neighborhood spot. What Restaurante Los Primos lacks in flashy decor it makes up for in friendly service and tasty Mexican breakfast, particularly their standout carne asada chilaquiles and flavorful chili relleno omelet.
Juicy Juicy
$ | (760) 200-9000 | WEBSITE
We can’t think of a more perfect reprieve after spending seven stops smushed between the tires of hanging bikes than a frosty, refreshing açai bowl. Particularly from this cozy, family-owned spot that features vibrant decor and beautiful plants all over the store. Here you’ll find fresh, made-from-scratch treats like the Medicine bowl or the Love the Cherry Smoothie, which are sure to leave anyone wanting more.
Elmer’s Restaurant (Palm Springs, CA)
$ | (760) 327-8419 | WEBSITE
We’d cross the Coachella Valley for Elmer’s traditional German pancake, where sugar, butter, and lemon melt into the fluffy batter. But all it requires is pulling into their Palm Springs lot. Don’t miss the bacon and eggs that come with crispy hash browns and buttery biscuits, or really any classic diner fare they slide onto your table here.