Bar Issi

Inspired by White Lotus Season 2 (filmed in Sicily), Bar Issi also takes design inspo from the famed Madonna Inn, a 1950s pink hotel on California’s central coast. You’ll know you’ve scored a hot reservation when spotting the groups huddled patiently for their turn to check out downtown’s latest dining concept. Order a variety of dishes here to get a good sense of the menu, and fully embrace carbs for maximum enjoyment. 

The vibe: Bar Issi’s colorful, playful aesthetic leans maximalist when it comes to design, which was inspired by 1970s glamor seen along the Italian coast. See and be seen here, as they say, from a table in the dining room or from one of their coveted and cute bar seats, where you can take in the latest Palm Springs fashions from visiting bachelorette parties and local (very hip) retirees. 

The food: Start dinner off with a flavor-packed hamachi carpaccio appetizer, though be aware the portion is quite small—it’s wise to order at least a couple portions for the table. End the meal with their not-too-sweet pistachio-flavored soft-serve ice cream that’s topped with either raspberry or chocolate sauce. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong selecting a dish from each section of the menu to share, though we’re partial to the shrimp linguine. 

The drink: The photo-worthy verdi mai tai is served in a ceramic zebra cup that will have nearby diners asking, “What are they drinking?” This rum cocktail is great for the ‘gram and also tastes refreshing after a day spent under the sun.

Time Out tip: Complimentary self-parking (first two hours, then $5/hour thereafter) is available at the hotel with validation inside Bar Issi.