Dining Around The Desert

Dining Around The Desert: LG’s Prime Steak House

After many years of not visiting LG’s Prime Steakhouse in La Quinta, my husband Bill and I went for dinner during the recent PGA Tour Career Builder Challenge at PGA West. And by the looks of it, business is booming at LG’s.

Dinner For Two At LG's Large Bar

We grabbed the last two seats at the large bar. The atmosphere was very pleasant, and the room had a nice, warm feel to it. LG’s features an extensive wine list both by the glass and bottle. Thankfully the bartender offered us several wines to taste before we made our choices.

For dinner I choose two appetizers; I enjoyed the Mac and Cheese as well as the Roasted Brussel Sprouts in a maple glaze. Since LG’s is primarily a steak house, Bill went for a petite filet and baked potato with all the fixings. Bill’s steak was cooked to perfection and was both tender and tasty.

LG's Wine Cellar

We returned to LG’s the following week at the invitation of Keller Williams Realty management for a small dinner party in LG’s private wine cellar downstairs. This visit I went for the Roasted Salmon Filet, and I choose Buerre Blanc sauce over the Bernaise. Bill doubled down on the 8-ounce Filet but passed on the sizzling butter sauce.

We had a plan for desert. Bill ordered the Tiramisu while I went for the Brownie with ice cream. This way we both got to sample two splendid deserts.

LG’s tends to be on the pricey side, which is par for the course for high-end steak houses. Entrees are ala cart and the sides do add up. The bottom line for us is the quality is there, and we’ll be back in the future. Maybe not every week, but we’ll be back.

Two LG’s Prime Steak House Locations

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Dining Around The Desert: WP Kitchen, Palm Desert

As some of you might recall, years ago I worked for Wolfgang Puck at the original Spago Restaurant in West Hollywood. Thru the years, I’ve continued to enjoy Wolf’s restaurants, and I’m happy to say that his newest concept serving global fare in a family-style format does not disappoint.

Inspired by how Wolf dines and entertains at home, the menu at the new WP Kitchen & Bar in Palm Desert consists of seasonal offerings of small plates, fresh salads, pizzas, handmade pasta as well as steak and seafood.

Klaus Puck & Sheri Dettman

Wolf’s Brother Klaus Puck Onsite

On our visit, my husband Bill and I were lucky enough to see Klaus Puck, Wolfgang’s brother at the helm. He was greeting the customers, expediting the food and making sure that everything was running smoothly. Truly hands on and it shows.

Sharing WP Kitchen’s Small Plates

We started with a delicious Smoked Salmon Bruschetta, which has the best Horseradish Cream that they smoke at Spago, along with Watercress, Apples, Radish and Pumpkin Seeds. Klaus then treated us to a Lobster Knuckle Sandwich that has a taste-tingling mix of Vadouvan spices that are truly addicting. Next was the Arancini with Wild Mushrooms and a Garlic Aioli. Little Italian balls of joy!

For our next course, I had Agnolotti filled with Pumpkin in a Sage Brown Butter sauce dusted with Pecorino and finished with fried Sage. I could eat this dish every day and not get tired of it. Bill enjoyed the Braised Beef Short Rib in Moroccan Spices with Dried Fruit, Toasted Almonds and Couscous. It was falling off the bone, and the spices were spot on.

2 Desserts Are Better Than 1!

By this point, we were stuffed but Klaus’ generosity knew no bounds, and we enjoyed two desserts; the Apple Tart and Salted Caramel Pudding with Crème Fraiche Whipped Cream and Brown Sugar.

We can’t wait to go back and are very happy to have this new addition to the desert dining scene. WP Kitchen has a nice wine list and Happy Hour Menu and is open seven days a week from 11 AM until close with Happy Hour Daily from 3-6PM. Please say hello to Klaus Puck if he's there and tell him that Sheri Dettman sent you.

WP Kitchen & Bar: 73-130 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 568-2700.

Dining Around The Desert: Koutouki Taverna, Palm Desert

Sheri Dettman (Left) & Koutouki Family Member Dina

We Go Greek In Palm Desert's Newest Restaurant

My husband Bill and I had been looking forward to the newest restaurant on the scene in Palm Desert. Located at the somewhat historic site of the former Sasspers and Sense Restaurants you'll discover the new Koutouki Taverna.

Koutouki Taverna in Palm Desert is the first restaurant in the US from a Canadian family that has owned and run 26 Greek restaurants over a long career in the Edmonton, Alberta area.

Looking Forward To The Grand Opening

Bill and I had been looking forward to the Taverna's opening as we'd seen construction going on for a few months as we drove by on Highway 111. This location was also the original location of Ormi & Boni’s Restaurant before they moved to La Quinta (now rumored to soon to become a Denny's–and more on that later).

Opening just four weeks ago, the whole family is involved from the daughter, Dina, who greets you at the door (pictured with me), to Chris, her husband who is the chef. The night we were there we also met mom and shared an after dinner drink with papa.

The Tasting Menu For Us

Since this was our first visit to Koutouki, our server suggested we try the Koutouki Meze, which is a pretty broad tasting menu. The first course featured five dips, and olives served with warm pita bread– my favorite was the Kopanisti, which is Feta, roasted jalapenos, and mint. Bill enjoyed the Tzatziki made of Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic.

Next up was Keftedes. These are house-made, pan fried beef meatballs followed by grilled chicken. Then, Dolmades, the traditional grape leaves stuffed with ground beef, rice and tzatziki, and then Spanakopita with spinach, feta, mint and dill. Yum!

The Main Course Arrives

As if that wasn’t enough, the main course of Arni Kleftiko soon arrived. This slow roasted lamb was falling off the bone, and the lemon-roasted potatoes were the perfect compliment. We were offered desserts, but we’d already hit our limit.

For now, Koutouki is only serving beer (Bira) and wine. They do have a nice selection of wine. Our server offered us a taste of several we were interested in before making our wine choice.

The last time we peeked in the restaurant was full, so reservations are suggested.

Koutouki Taverna is also open for lunch featuring a mouthwatering selection of Buns, Wraps, and Gyros. Koutouki Taverna: 73675 Highway 111 in Palm Desert. (760) 834-8221.

Dining Around The Desert: The Grill On Main, La Quinta

The Grill on Main has been thru several transitions, and the most recent is a winner in my book. Opened in 2010, and now managed by former Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant Executive Chef, Brett Maddock.

My husband Bill and I have been back several times (restaurant reviews are hard work after all), and we’re happy to report we recommend The Grill On Main, especially with a new summer menu.

Classic American Fare In Old Town La Quinta

The Grill On Main features classic American fare, specialty microbrews, a nice wine list and a full bar. Open Tuesday thru Sunday during the summer season, The Grill serves lunch, dinner, and on the weekends features a Sunday Brunch. The Grill offers live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Happy hour is a big draw between two and seven every night. The Happy Hour menu features everything from Tempura Cauliflower with a Lemon Aioli, Carne Asada Nachos and Hot Wings to Fish & Chips and Burgers. My favorite is the Chicken BLT Salad with Greens, Avocado, Onion, Grilled Chicken & Blue Cheese Dressing. It’s a very generous portion and at eleven bucks it’s a bargain!

I’ve also sampled the Bacon-Mac and Cheese in the past and do I have to say anything more? Bacon? Mac and Cheese? It’s all good!

Fish & Chips In Beer Batter

Bill has enjoyed the Fish & Chips in beer batter. Light and crunchy served with Fries, Coleslaw and Tartar Sauce. The Grill Burger is an excellent choice served with Cheddar, Grilled Onions, House Bacon and Fries. The Albacore Tuna Melt with Cheddar and Tomato served on Toasted Sourdough is also tasty.

We usually enjoy our dinner with a nice Acacia Unoaked Chardonnay or the Rombauer Chardonnay. Both are excellent choices on a warm summer evening.

6 Kinds of Taco’s On Taco Tuesday’s

Locals love Taco Tuesday’s. The Grill offers a choice of six types of tacos for just $2 each. A very tasty deal!

The Grill On Main in Old Town La Quinta (not that old really, as Old Town is celebrating its 10th anniversary) at 78065 Main Street. La Quinta. (760) 777-7773.

Dining Around The Desert: The Chateau At Lake La Quinta

Views From The Bistro's Patio Deck

Located just a few blocks from our La Quinta real estate offices you’ll discover Lake La Quinta. This gated community of homes features a 25-acre private lake with electric boating, kayaking, fishing and more. In the near future residents of Lake La Quinta will be able to dock their boats right at the Chateau.

Located on the West side of Lake La Quinta is The Chateau at Lake La Quinta (formerly the Lake La Quinta Inn). The Chateau is a boutique hotel offering newly remodeled rooms overlooking the lake.

My husband Bill and I have been watching the progress of the Chateau’s recent addition and remodel the last few months as we drive by it on Caleo Bay Road near our offices. After hearing about their bistro, we recently decided to stop in and check things out.

The Bistro’s Soft Opening

R To L: Sheri, Bistro Mgr Chris, & Sous Chef Manual

The Bistro is not advertising yet as they are working on permission for more parking across the street for the restaurant. They are also working on ramping up their service and menu with the goal to be ready to promote the Bistro this fall.

First off, let’s just say that the location is beautiful and unique to the Palm Springs area. Outside the small bistro, you’ll find a large patio right on the Lake, and the setting couldn’t be better. There’s even a wood burning pizza oven on the patio. And since the patio faces East, you’ll get welcome shade later in the evening as you watch the electric boats pass.

Salads, Sandwiches & More

On our recent visit, the bistro had about ten items on the menu. We’ve enjoyed the Spring Salad with fresh strawberries, raspberries and Feta with a raspberry vinaigrette dressing–one of the better simple salads we’ve enjoyed here in the desert.

In the interest of sampling for this review, I enjoyed the Munster Grilled Cheese sandwich stuffed with Proscuitto and Pesto and another day the Salmon with Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables.

Flatbread Pizza From The Patio Pizza Oven

Bill sampled the Flatbread Pizza that you could customize to your liking and also the Filet Newport. In spite of being over-cooked one time and under-cooked the next, it was a high-quality piece of meat. In fact, we found all of the ingredients are of very high quality, and you cannot argue with the integrity of the food.

We are looking forward to seeing what evolves from this summer’s experimentation as we like the setting, and we’d love to put the Chateau into our regular restaurant rotation! In the meantime, I’d highly recommend libations and flatbread or salads on the patio.

Worth noting is the fact that some people might be put off by the bistro’s automatic 20% gratuity on all checks. The Chateau also features a full bar and a limited selection of wine by the glass.

A Room On The Lake

And if you’re looking for a place to stay, the Chateau is worth checking out. The reviews on TripAdvisor are very good. The Chateau At Lake La Quinta: 78-120 Caleo Bay, La Quinta, between Avenue 47 and 48, one block East of Washington Street. (760) 564-7332

Dining Around The Desert: The Edge At The Ritz-Carlton

Fine Dining Views At The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage

My husband Bill and I have dined several times at the Ritz-Carlton’s State Fare restaurant, and we've always enjoyed it. This season the Ritz opened its new fine dining restaurant. Perched on the edge of a hill adjacent to the Ritz pool area you'll find The Edge. The Edge’s location offers sweeping down valley views. Nighttime, however, is when the valley lights up.

Prior to dinner, I sampled an excellent Moscow Mule. For starters I enjoyed Charred Octopus served with petite potatoes, herb salad, smoked paprika and vinaigrette dressing. Bill ordered the King Crab plate with gooseberries, English cucumber, hearts of palm and trout roe. Both starters were exceptional.

A Carnivore’s Delight

A Cut Of Authentic Wagyu Beef At The Edge

The Edge entrée menu is a carnivore’s delight. Having grown up on a dairy farm, I gravitate toward fish and poultry. Besides the vegetarian dish, I had three choices; Mary’s Chicken, Maine Lobster or my choice, Levantine Sea Bream. My Sea Bream was prepared with Littleneck clams, spring peas & tendrils; I enjoyed this dish although I thought it could have used a touch less salt.

Bill decided to try his first genuine Wagyu steak. To be specific, this was Satsuma Japanese Wagyu from Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu Island, Japan. Bill ordered a six ounce New York cut that priced at $130 a la carte! The steak was first presented to Bill before cutting, then again before cooking. The marbling was amazing. But with all that marbling Bill found the steak a bit too fatty tasting, and it was under seasoned.

Brussels Sprouts Trying To Impersonate Asparagus

We dined with another couple, and they enjoyed their starters and dinners. And yes, we all sampled some tempting desserts. The company was great, the dining room and views were beautiful, but the service was not consistent throughout the evening for a restaurant of this price range. One server thought our Brussels Sprouts were Asparagus, and another tried several times to remove two plates that were still being enjoyed.

Hopefully, any service kinks will be worked out shortly. I’m also hoping that Chef will add a few more non-meat dishes for us non-carnivores. Drinks and starters at the Edge bar could be another possibility for you to consider.

The Edge at The Ritz-Carlton is open during the summer on Friday’s and Saturday’s and returns to regular hours in the fall. The Ritz-Carlton, 68900 Frank Sinatra Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA (760) 321-8282.

Top Photo: Courtesy Ritz-Carlton, Ranch Mirage. Wagyu photo: William Dettman

Dining Around The Desert: Sullivan’s Steak House, Palm Desert

Happy Hour Follows El Paseo Shopping

After a bit of El Paseo shopping, my husband Bill and I decided on Sullivan’s Steak House located on the second floor of The Gardens On El Paseo in Palm Desert. While a little early for us at five o’clock, we were there, hungry and thirsty and heck, happy hour was being offered.

Large Lounge Area With Adjacent Patio

Sullivan's Bar / Lounge Area

We choose one of the high-top tables in the open lounge area, which provided a good view of the unfolding happy hour scene. The service was prompt and professional from the hostesses to our server to the manager.

The menu is the usual steakhouse fare from French Onion Soup and Shrimp Cocktail to a wide variety of Steaks and sides such as Three Cheese Mac and Cream Style Spinach. They have a couple of fish offerings including Bacon-Wrapped Sea Scallops and Ahi Tuna Steak.

Moscow Mule In Traditional Copper Mug

I enjoyed a Moscow Mule while Bill quenched his thirst with a Stella on tap. I’ve always liked the tangy ginger beer in the Mule, and I’m glad that it has made a comeback over the past few years. Here at Sullivan’s it’s served in the traditional copper mug.

Bill ordered the Bar Burger, which is pretty much a standard burger with American Cheese, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Red Onions, B&B Pickles on a Brioche Bun with French Fries. Perfectly cooked to medium, the burger was juicy and delicious. Using a Brioche Bun keeps it from being too much bread, and it’s the perfect size. Bill was hoping the included fries would be house made, but the fries were your average frozen variety.

I ordered the Sesame Chive Salmon, which is a piece of Salmon covered in sesame seeds, served on a small bed of Steamed Spinach with a Sherry-Soy Glaze. The fish was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was flavorful.

Say Yes Please To Sullivan's Key Lime Pie

Sullivan's Dining Room

To round it all off, and to ensure an all-around dining review we shared a piece of the Key Lime Pie. Sullivan's offers a generous serving size, and we'll leave it to you to decide whether to share or to enjoy yourself.

After we’d been there about 15 minutes Sullivan’s lounge area started to fill up, and by the time we left the bar was busy. They have a pretty active happy hour as well as live entertainment starting at six.

Sullivan’s Steak House: 73505 El Paseo, Suite 2600, Palm Desert, on the second floor of El Paseo Gardens, adjacent to Pacifica Seafood Restaurant. Sullivan’s features a lounge area, dining room and outside patio.

Photos: Wiliam Dettman

Dining Around The Desert: Morgan’s At La Quinta Resort

Returning To Morgan's, An Old Favorite

Time can certainly fly and since it’s been a few years since we reviewed Morgan’s In The Desert, my husband Bill and I recently revisited this old favorite located at The La Quinta Resort & Club.

Morgan’s is the La Quinta Resort’s fine dining restaurant. Morgan's is helmed by Chef Jimmy Schmidt of Detroit’s famed Rattlesnake Restaurant. Morgan’s features a selection of small plates, seafood, and meats along with excellent cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Dining At Morgan’s Bar

Morgan's Bar & Lounge Area

We chose to dine at the bar and Brian the bartender took great care of us. I started with a Tangerine-Ginger Margarita made of Sauza Agave, Pomegranate juice, fresh Tangerine, Ginger, and Lime. Bill sampled a glass of the 2012 Neyers Chardonnay.

The soup of the day, which we shared, was Cauliflower with Sweet Onions. It was creamy and packed with flavor but featured no cream or dairy. It was one of the best soups that Bill's enjoyed in recent years.

The Scallops Or Salmon?

Usually for my entrée I would order Maine Diver Sea Scallops. Brian suggested the Pan Roasted Nova Salmon on a bed of Roast Pumpkin & Quinoa Risotto, with Ginger Froth & Crispy Ginger Salad, and Brian did not steer me wrong.

Bill ordered the suggested Apple Cider Cured All Natural Pork Chop with a Smoked Salt Apple & Cauliflower Gratin and an Apple & Pinot Noir Essence. While the Pork Chop could have used 30 seconds less on the grill, the depth of flavors on this plate were wonderful. A glass of the ‘12 Seghesio Zinfandel was the perfect complement.

Our Dessert Goes Quickly

For dessert, we were treated to Twisted S’mores of Chocolate with Fire Kissed Marshmallow Ice Cream on an Almond Graham Cracker. It lasted about a minute between the two of us!

Morgan’s is open for dinner from 5:30 to 10 PM daily. The bar hours are from 5-10 and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. There is live music Wednesday thru Sunday from 7-11 PM. Reservations are highly recommended, and if you enjoy dining in the bar, please say hello to Brian. Complimentary valet parking is available at the resort entrance. Morgan's Of The Desert: 49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta (760) 564-7600

Dining Around The Desert: Cactus Jack’s

Step Back In Time To Cactus Jack's

My husband Bill and I decided to visit Cactus Jack’s at their original location in Indio for dinner (Bill's photos here are of the newer Palm Desert location), as we hadn’t been there in a few years. No matter, it’s like stepping back in time, and nothing much has changed!

Cactus Jack’s specializes in Prime Rib and large cocktails and on a Tuesday evening the joint was jumping. We found an eclectic crowd of mainly regulars, many who seem to know each other.

A Gathering Place For Friends Old & New

Cactus Jack's Palm Desert Dining Room

We had dinner at the bar, and the gentleman next to me was a luxury RV (Prevost) salesman that Bill and I had met in Bend, Oregon a few years back. At the other end of the bar was a past client of mine whom we were delighted to see. He’s a 747 pilot, and Cactus Jack’s just happens to be his 93-year-old mother’s favorite restaurant. It’s just that kind of place.

Bill enjoyed the BBQ Baby Back Pork Ribs with BBQ Beans and Cole Slaw. He said they were the best ribs he’d had here in the desert. Very meaty and juicy! I ordered the Cobb Salad, which was very fresh. The only thing I’d change would be to order the dressing on the side next time, as the salad was a bit overdressed to my taste.

A Good Variety Of Menu Selections

Cactus Jack’s offers all types of Steaks, a good selection of Pasta and Seafood along with a large selection of appetizers and Entrée sized Salads. They also offer a nice Bar Menu as well

Here, you’ll find a nice selection of wines, both by the glass and the bottle. We enjoyed a Washington State favorite of ours from 14 Hands Winery.

Cactus Jack’s is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner in Palm Desert and the original Indio location.

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