The quest for the best breakfast in Palm Springs is a delicious mix of sun-soaked patios, fragrant coffee, and menus that run from classic diner plates to inventive, modern fare. Few pleasures compare to sipping a perfectly brewed coffee under a canopy of palm trees, tracing the ripples of the early morning light across the desert’s dramatic mountains. Whether you’re a visitor trying to start your day with a memorable meal or a local scrutinizing every pancake stack in town, this city quietly cultivates a breakfast scene with real charm and variety.
On my last trip, I realized that breakfast in Palm Springs isn’t just about eggs and toast—it’s a showcase of everything the city does well: warmth, creativity, and a rare attention to detail. From the energetic buzz of neighborhood cafes to retro diners that seem lifted from old Hollywood postcards, I’ve found Palm Springs’ breakfast spots to cater to every style and craving. Let’s dive into the flavors, stories, and signature dishes hiding in plain sight, one bite at a time.
Where to find the best breakfast in Palm Springs, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best breakfast in Palm Springs, CA:
- Elmer’s Restaurant – Palm Springs
- Farm
- Koffi South
- Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
- Billy Reed’s Restaurant
- L’Atelier Cafe
- Cheeky’s
- Koffi North
- John’s Restaurant
- Palm Greens Cafe
1. Elmer’s Restaurant – Palm Springs
+1 760-327-8419
Elmer’s Restaurant – Palm Springs blends classic comfort with a nostalgic nod to the Pacific Northwest. With bright windows and vintage desert photos, this spot manages to feel familiar even on a first visit. I sat out on their inviting pet-friendly patio one sunny morning and noticed the staff greeting many regulars by name—a detail that signals real community warmth.
Elmer’s pancakes are legendary. Their signature buttermilk cakes arrive golden, light, and just sweet enough, especially when paired with tangy Oregon Marionberry syrup. Boyd’s Coffee makes for a very welcome pour, particularly on a slow morning.
Craving something savory? Their fluffy omelets and hashbrowns have a steady local following. If you want breakfast in Palm Springs that feels timeless, Elmer’s is hard to top.
2. Farm
A visit to Farm feels like a quick detour to a Provençal morning, with umbrella-shaded tables and a secret-garden mood tucked away just off Palm Canyon Drive. My last breakfast here started with the soft hum of conversation and the distant clink of French press coffee, which set the perfect tone. The kitchen’s focus on vibrant, fresh ingredients is clear in every bite.
Farm’s signature crepes are a revelation—try the one filled with goat cheese, tomatoes, and herbs for a bright, tangy start. Their omelets, fluffy and bursting with market vegetables, hold a loyal following among locals. Even the simplest dishes feel elevated, thanks to careful seasoning and presentation.
If you want a breakfast in Palm Springs that’s both relaxed and a little refined, Farm delivers a morning worth lingering over. The charming patio and produce-driven menu set this place apart.
3. Koffi South
Koffi South is a mainstay for those who crave their morning with a side of mountain views and a cool, local vibe. This spot’s floor-to-ceiling windows bring in endless light, making every cup of coffee feel like a mini retreat. My favorite seat is on the patio, where you catch a gentle breeze and soak up the desert scene with ease.
The draw here goes beyond coffee. Koffi’s cold brew is especially smooth, but it’s their house-made pastries that win people over. I’m partial to their almond croissant, flaky and just sweet enough to pair perfectly with a morning coffee. For something more filling, try their oatmeal or fruit-and-yogurt parfait, which stay light and fresh in true Palm Springs spirit.
If you’re after a laid-back yet polished breakfast near the San Jacinto foothills, Koffi South is an easy pick. The combination of view, vibe, and pure coffee craft is hard to beat.
4. Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
Sherman’s Deli & Bakery is pure classic comfort with a Palm Springs twist—think bustling booths, the aroma of fresh-baked bread, and a menu that spans decades of favorites. I’ve always admired the friendly pace here, where both locals and newcomers tuck in to generous plates and lively chatter fills the room.
Their matzo ball soup is gentle and restorative, but it’s the breakfast menu that really shines. The omelet selection is vast, each served fluffy and packed with fresh vegetables, while the bagels come loaded with creamy cheese and crisp tomatoes. Their fresh-baked challah French toast goes fast, and for good reason—each slice is golden and soft, with a hint of sweetness.
If you want breakfast in Palm Springs that’s both hearty and nostalgic, Sherman’s delivers every time. Their bakery case full of morning treats is worth a second glance.
5. Billy Reed’s Restaurant
Billy Reed’s Restaurant feels like a plush, Old Palm Springs living room—with polished banquettes, dazzling stained glass, and staff who work with the confidence of a seasoned team. My last breakfast here, tucked into a cozy corner, felt like a step back in time in the best way.
Billy Reed’s waffles are an easy winner, served crisp with a cloud of whipped butter and a splash of syrup, while their fluffy omelets can be customized with garden-fresh ingredients. The portions are generous, inviting a leisurely pace that suits the room’s stately charm.
If you’re seeking a breakfast in Palm Springs where tradition and comfort merge, Billy Reed’s is a timeless pick. Their baked goods case is a secret stash of morning happiness.
6. L’Atelier Cafe
+1 760-778-7895
L’Atelier Cafe is a pocket-sized French escape in the heart of Palm Springs, perfect for slow mornings and people-watching from rustic sidewalk tables. My first visit was a chance encounter; I ended up lingering far longer than planned, lost in the aroma of fresh croissants and espresso.
Their quiche is impossibly light, with a flaky crust that always makes an impression. It’s paired well with a crisp side salad, delivering a breakfast that’s both satisfying and balanced. The almond croissant here is a standout—delicately sweet and tender inside.
If you’re after a breakfast in Palm Springs that’s quietly stylish and attentive to detail, L’Atelier Cafe is the one to try. It offers a calm European moment in the desert sun.
7. Cheeky’s
Cheeky’s has built its reputation on pure creativity and a playful approach to breakfast, all wrapped in a stylish, sunlit setting. My first visit kicked off with a table on their leafy patio, surrounded by the chatter of both locals and vacationers, each curious to see what’s new on the weekly menu.
The seasonal omelet is always a smart pick, mixing farm-fresh produce and surprising flavors. Their homemade pastries, especially the cinnamon roll, nail that balance of tender crumb and gentle sweetness. The fresh-squeezed juices are bright and refreshing, perfect for the desert’s dry air.
If you’re searching for breakfast in Palm Springs that grabs your imagination (and your appetite), Cheeky’s never misses. The inventive menu keeps regulars coming back for more.
8. Koffi North
+1 760-416-2244
See Menu
Koffi North is an Uptown Design District staple, easily found by the gentle bustle of regulars and the inviting mountain views. I always make a point to stop at the leafy courtyard on a cool morning—the community atmosphere here is unmistakable, yet there’s plenty of space for solo coffee breaks too.
Order their signature drip coffee for a pure, rich start, and don’t overlook the bakery counter. The blueberry muffin, with its crumbly top and burst of fruit, pairs perfectly with a hot cup. For those who prefer lighter fare, the yogurt parfait with honey and seasonal fruit is a refreshing choice.
If you’re craving a breakfast in Palm Springs that begins with top-notch coffee and a welcoming vibe, Koffi North never disappoints.
9. John’s Restaurant
+1 760-367-9779
John’s Restaurant is the kind of diner where time slows down, regulars linger, and classic breakfast favorites arrive exactly as you hope. I sat at the window counter one busy Saturday to watch the steady parade of pancakes, omelets, and plenty of hot coffee flowing from the kitchen.
Their breakfast burrito is a local legend, stuffed with golden potatoes, eggs, and fresh vegetables, and wrapped in a warm tortilla that never gets soggy. For a lighter start, their veggie omelet is both hearty and packed with color. With generous portions, you’ll leave with your appetite more than satisfied.
If you want a laid-back breakfast in Palm Springs without the fuss, John’s delivers consistency, value, and a neighborly welcome. It feels like a true piece of the neighborhood.
10. Palm Greens Cafe
Palm Greens Cafe is where health-focused food meets bold flavor, set against the backdrop of a breezy, sun-lit dining room. On mornings when I want something energizing but not heavy, this is my easy go-to. The staff has a knack for guiding you through their menu, especially if you’re unsure about which plant-based option to try first.
Their breakfast tacos stand out, filled with scrambled tofu, fresh salsa, and avocado, delivering both comfort and a kick. The green smoothie bowl is a close runner-up—vibrant, crisp, and topped with seeds and house-made granola to keep it interesting till the last spoonful.
If you’re seeking the kind of breakfast in Palm Springs that nourishes as much as it delights, Palm Greens Cafe is an easy pick.
More Things to Try in Palm Springs, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-try breakfast spots in Palm Springs?
Palm Springs has a range of favorites like Elmer’s Restaurant for classic pancakes, Cheeky’s for creative seasonal dishes, and Farm for a rustic French-style morning. Each offers something unique, so you can’t go wrong with any of these spots.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan options for breakfast in Palm Springs?
Absolutely. Palm Greens Cafe and Farm both serve excellent vegetarian and vegan breakfast dishes, from tofu scrambles to veggie-loaded omelets. Even many classic diners now provide solid plant-based choices.
Which Palm Springs cafes are best for coffee and a light breakfast?
Koffi (both North and South) and Ernest Coffee Co are standouts for top coffee alongside bakery treats and lighter fare like fruit parfaits or oatmeal cups.
Where can I find a gluten-free breakfast in Palm Springs?
Most modern Palm Springs breakfast spots offer gluten-free choices. Palm Greens Cafe, Farm, and Cheeky’s have gluten-free menu items that don’t skimp on flavor or variety.
Is outdoor or patio dining available at breakfast spots in Palm Springs?
Many local favorites feature outdoor seating or garden patios. Farm, Cheeky’s, and Elmer’s all have inviting outdoor areas, ideal for soaking up the desert sun with your coffee.