Our Favorite Joshua Tree Restaurants & Saloons, Plus Best Spots for Food on the Go!
My wife and I have been going to Joshua Tree for almost 20 years. Over that time, we've visited for all sorts of reasons from camping and hiking to music festivals and volunteering for art shows, or just spending time at our cabin. As a result of all the trips, we've built up a decent knowledge of the area. Here’s a few of the restaurants and eateries we recommend to anyone spending time in Joshua Tree.
The town of Joshua Tree is located between Yucca Valley and Twentynine Palms and there are plenty of options to choose from between the three towns. Check out the list of places we think deserve a specific mention, or scroll to the bottom for a map.
For even more local tips including restaurants, art galleries, and things to do, check out our Joshua Tree Local’s Guide by downloading our mobile app - available on iPhone and Android.
Road Runner Grab+Go
Best For: Fresh Food on the Go
Food: Sandwiches, Salads, Burritos & More
Located right next to the Joshua Tree National Park Visitors Center, Road Runner is a locally owned grab and go market with super friendly staff and a great option for food on the go. Although it shares a wall with the NP Visitor Center, it feels like a special find with friendly staff and a very welcoming atmosphere. Food selections include freshly made sandwiches, salads, and some hot food options. There is also a great curated packaged foods selection, which can make great gifts.
Crossroads Cafe
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
Food: View Menu
Ever since we first started visiting Joshua Tree back in 2006, Crossroads Cafe has been a mainstay. It's always a solid and reliable place to get breakfast or lunch and they have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too. Like most places in Johsua Tree, it can get crowded on weekends, so be prepared to wait or go early to beat the crowds.
Sam's Indian Food & Pizza
Best For: Dinner
Food: Indian Food & Pizza
This suggestion is often met with skepticism, and I think it even took a few recommendations for us to finally give Sam's a try. We were really impressed when we finally did though because the Indian food was great! And not just good for the area, it's better than a lot of Indian places in bigger cities. Their Biryani is my favorite. They have some interesting pizza options too with an Indian twist.
Pie for the People
Good For: Lunch/Dinner
Food: Pizza
A long time Joshua Tree favorite (now in Yucca Valley), Pie for the People serves up New York style pizza that somehow feels just right in the desert.
La Copine
Good For: Brunch / Lunch
Food: View Menu
This chic, minimalist restaurant dishes up French-inspired California cuisine, bursting with fresh, seasonal ingredients, that is often Instagram-worthy. La Copine (which means "girlfriend" in French) is located about 10 minutes north of Yucca Valley on Old Woman Springs Rd. They do accept a few reservations via text message, but there are specific instructions on how to request one, so please visit their website for more information. They are typically open Thursday - Sunday, but they close during the summer, so be sure to check their website before you go.
The Copper Room
Good For: Cocktails
Food: View Menu
Step back in time to 1957 as you enter The Copper Room, located at the Yucca Valley airport. Sip martinis under the desert stars and savor classic aviation-themed cocktails at this vintage gem. From panoramic runway views to wood-paneled walls and plush red booths, The Copper Room transports you to another era.
Kitchen in the Desert
Good For: Dinner
Food: View Menu
Although we haven't tried this one ourselves yet, it's been mentioned and recommended to us several times. Started in 2015, Kitchen in the Desert is known for their jerk chicken and other Caribbean-style dishes. Their spacious outdoor patio looks like the perfect place to dine on a warm desert night. With the recommendations comes popularity, and we've heard that wait times can be long. If you can, visit during the week to avoid the crowds.
Restaurant at 29 Palms Inn
Good For: Late Lunch or Dinner
Food: Afternoon Menu and Dinner Menu
If you're looking for a more subdued experience and a place to escape the majority of the crowds, we've usually found success at the Restaurant at 29 Palms Inn. While it may not get the buzz that other bars and restaurants in the area get, the Restaurant at 29 Palms Inn whispers its charm with unpretentious farm-to-table cuisine. In fact, they have their own farm, called Faultline Farm, where they grow an impressive variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables that are incorporated into their menu. Be sure to check their website for the latest info.
Pappy & Harriet’s
Good For: Whiskey & BBQ
Food: View Menu
Step beyond the saloon doors at Pappy & Harriet’s and you'll discover a rustic Western oasis, complete with exposed brick walls and vintage saloon decor. The outdoor mesquite barbecue churns out smoky, slow-cooked meats and melt-in-your-mouth ribs dripping with juicy goodness. They also have some of the best homemade chili you’ll ever have! Sitting at the bar is an experience in itself, and their handcrafted cocktails are the perfect way to quench your thirst after a day exploring the desert. Pappy’s can get pretty busy on weekends and they don’t take reservations, so be prepared for a wait.
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