Bar Cecil is a chic and vibrant spot in Palm Springs where you can savor American and French delights while surrounded by stunning art—just arrive early for a coveted bar seat.
"Bar Cecil is one of the tougher-to-book spots in town right now. Reservations at this American bar/restaurant get nabbed weeks in advance—even during the low season—and if you think going midweek will help your chances, it won’t. Here’s the good news: the bar area is walk-in only and that’s where you’ll want to sit anyway. The entire menu is offered here (get the pork chop), plus you can chat up the bartenders about the art on the walls while they pour you an Old Fashioned. Bar Cecil is one of those places that’s sexy and chic without feeling like “sexy and chic” is the theme. It just naturally is—while also being our favorite place to grab dinner in town." - brant cox
"Reservations at this American-inspired bistro book out weeks in advance—even during the low season—and if you think driving out midweek will help your chances, it won’t. Here’s the good news: the bar area is walk-in only and that’s where you’ll want to sit anyway. The entire menu is offered here (get the slightly sweet pork chop, it’ll ruin all other versions you’ve eaten), plus you can chat up the bartenders about all the original art on the walls while they pour you a smokey Old Fashioned. Bar Cecil is one of those places that’s sexy and chic without feeling like “sexy and chic” is the theme—it just naturally is. If you’re looking for date night in the desert, Bar Cecil is where you go. " - brant cox, garrett snyder
"Bar Cecil is one of the tougher-to-book spots in town right now. Reservations at this American bar/restaurant get nabbed weeks in advance—even during the low season—and if you think going midweek will help your chances, it won’t. Here’s the good news: the bar area is walk-in only and that’s where you’ll want to sit anyway. The entire menu is offered here (get the pork chop), plus you can chat up the bartenders about the art on the walls while they pour you an Old Fashioned. Bar Cecil is one of those places that’s sexy and chic without feeling like “sexy and chic” is the theme. It just naturally is—while also being our favorite place to grab dinner in town." - Brant Cox
"With sumptuous design that straddles garish and chic, boasting walls splashed with an impressive private collection of modern art (including pieces by Calder and Warhol) here you'll find a visual feast—as well as the hottest table in town. Reservations book weeks in advance, so if you're seeking a spur-of-the-moment meal, your best bet is to arrive before doors open and put your name down for a coveted bar seat. A precisely made martini is practically de rigueur; one particularly pricy option has a caviar-topped deviled egg for a garnish. It would be easy to spend a small fortune here on items like roasted king crab legs or Ossetra with blini, but hearty American fare, like a signature burger dressed up with melted Comté, is still very much in fashion." - Michelin Inspector
"Reservations here book weeks in advance, so if you're seeking a spur-of-the-moment meal, your best bet is to arrive before doors open and put your name down for a coveted bar seat. It would be easy to spend a small fortune here on items like roasted king crab legs or Ossetra with blini, but hearty American fare, like a signature burger dressed up with melted Comté, is still very much in fashion." - The MICHELIN Guide