Dinner at Cipolline last night — another joint recommended by our hosts.
The Cipolline Osteria has a distinct and authentic 1950’s vibe — a lodge-like atmosphere, complete with a swanky bar and a piano player belting out “Mac the Knife” and “Mame.” Stepping through the doors is like stepping back in time. You expect Dean Martin and Ole’ Blue Eyes to walk in any minute.
After being warmly greeted at the door, we were ushered to a romantic booth for two — which is, in itself, a testimony to just how integrated gay people are into the Palm Springs community. Management didn’t bat an eye at seating a gay couple at one of their best tables … and patrons couldn’t have cared less about seeing two gay people seated in a booth pretty clearly set up for those with romance on their minds.
Clyde’s fresh Atlantic salmon was, indeed, fresh — so much so, I wasn’t even offered a bite. (Ha!) But no worries — my own platter of chicken parm and pasta kept me nicely occupied. Cipolline’s marinara, by the way, is obviously homemade: tangy, tomato-y, and just sweet enough to please. Both of us avoided the side order of over-steamed veggies (squash and zucchini), which were too limp to be appealing.
If you’re looking for a retro-romantic getaway with live piano music (older patrons at the bar like to join in the singing, which is, by turns, charming and alarming), street cred, and the tastiest red sauce you’ve ever had poured over your pasta, make Cipolline’s your Palm Springs dinner destination of choice.
After a long Palm Springs Tours We were ready for a nice meal and drinks, this place was perfect!!! Nest time We go to a Palm Springs Resort we will return!!!!
Joe: Glad you liked it! Next time I’m in Palm Springs, I can’t wait to go back.