This is a place you may not expect to find in the desert. It feels more like a little hotel in Provence. Europa is a small restaurant located inside the walls of The Villa Royale Inn. The restaurant surrounds one of the hotel's pretty pools. The bar opens up to the pool and is a pleasant place for a cocktail, even if you are not dining here I suggest you stop by the bar for a cocktail. The restaurant is a series of small, intimate rooms and patios for your dining. Some have fireplaces. Fresh bougainvillea surround the patio to the bar, and the backdrop is the steep mountains. It's a pretty breathtaking setting.
My sister-in-law chose to have her 60th birthday party here, and it was a perfect spot. Europa has a beautiful, small private dining room that comfortably sat our party of 12. At one end of the long table is a fireplace. You may not think you would need a fireplace in hot Palm Springs, but on that night it was wet and raining, and the fireplace was a welcomed feature.
The service here is some of the best on the desert. We always ask for our favorite waitress, Annette. She is from the south of France and makes you feel more like you are a dinner guest in her home and not a customer. Through the years, we have gotten to know her, and I trust her suggestions. Annette will be honest about what is fresh, what looks good, and what doesn't look so appealing that night. We have found when we go with her suggestions we are never disappointed.
The chef is inspired. The menu is very French, but has a few surprises thrown in. Also, they will use local produce. I have had the lamb twice, and it's one of the best lamb meals I have ever had. The kids love the steaks here and will tell you save room for the chocolate cake. The wine list is one of the best in the desert, and not only has a lot of California wines, but a great selection of French wines.
This is a romantic spot, or a perfect place to celebrate a special event. More information is located on their web page
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