Le Vallauris: the Best French Food in Southern California

Le Vallauris Restaurant is considered one of the finest restaurants in Palm Springs. Located in the Roberson house, a classic Mediterranean Revival style home built by George B. Roberson, the son of Palm Springs pioneer Nellie Coffman, Le Vallauris is a picturesque representation of French cuisine, casual elegance and old fashioned European hospitality.

Adorned with beautiful European tapestries and distinctive Louis-XV furniture, entering Le Vallauris is like taking a step backward in time, into a distant part of the world only read about and viewed through the narrow lens of television and theatre. You’re quickly greeted by a courteous, tuxedo-clad host who directs you to your seat and guides you through the expansive menu, which is designed and presented in a very fine, French-inspired fashion. And the decision is never an easy one—you’ll be thoroughly tempted by each and every tantalizing item, with the urge to give in and try them all.

Chef Jean Paul Lair is a true master at creating mouthwatering, never before heard of appetizers, entrées and other fine dishes, as well as some of the classic French delectables that have been prepared and celebrated for centuries. From sautéed foie gras and garlic butter burgundy escargot, to Maine lobster raviolis with claws, knuckles and basil bisque, Le Vallauris brings authentic, traditionally-prepared French favorites to one of the most unlikely places in the world—the southern California desert.

Founded by Paul Bruggemans, owner of the famous Le St. Germain of Hollywood, Le Vallauris was specifically intended to be a French-inspired counterpart to the popular L.A. establishment, offering a signature line of gourmet foods to the Hollywood crowd that winters in Palm Springs. And for more than 40 years, it has been regarded as a distinguished culinary landmark by locals and out-of-towners alike.

Zagat presented Le Vallauris with their highest rating of "Extraordinary to Perfection" in all categories—food, decor and service—and was ranked among the top 100 restaurants in the United States based on consumer reviews gathered by OpenTable.com. So there’s no question that this cozy little French-style brasserie has something extraordinary to offer the inquisitive (and often fussy) southern California audience.

Le Vallauris also features an elegant piano bar and a pleasant outdoor dining experience in a secluded tree-shaded courtyard, so you can soak in the gorgeous, sun-drenched afternoons or the utterly-romantic, starry-skied evenings. And, of course, no French restaurant would be complete without an expansive wine menu. Le Vallauris stocks a number of unique varietals made by private, highly acclaimed producers from all regions of the world who are among the very best in the trade.

An excellent choice for brunch, lunch, dinner or dessert, Le Vallauris is also the perfect place to hold parties, weddings and festivities of any kind, so keep it in mind for the next time you’re planning out a special event or celebration. It’s located in the heart of Palm Springs on West Tahquitz Canyon Way, near the Palm Mountain Resort and Spa and O‘Donnell Golf Club.

Reservations call (760) 325-5059 - Located on 385 W Tahquitz Canyon Way - Palm Springs, CA 92262