Heading to the Desert? Cool Off at Maleza, Drift Palm Springs’ Laid-Back Take on Modern Mexican Dining

Capturing the effortless cool of Palm Springs, the casual yet upscale restaurant is great for morning coffee, lunch with friends, or a sunset dinner under the desert sky. Boasting a menu built for sharing and savoring, dishes never sacrifice flair for comfort and lean towards a celebratory affair, no matter the occasion. 

Under the creative eye of Executive Chef Ysaac Ramirez, Maleza’s menu evolves with the seasons and is paired with a beverage program to complement the food. So whether you’re seated around an outdoor firepit sipping mezcal or nestled indoors with a craft cocktail, you’re in for an authentic and tasty experience. 

Chef Ramirez’s winter lineup showcases produce at its peak. From persimmon, fennel, purple cabbage and Kuri squash, the chef and his team prepare dishes that reflect both ingredient quality and culinary curiosity. Influenced by his research trips to the bold, vibrant flavors of the cuisine in Mexico City and the tutelage under acclaimed chefs like Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman, Maleza’s mix of coastal simplicity and expressive Mexican technique is ever present. 

Beyond their standard shareables and large shareables menu, the chef makes use of these seasonal ingredients to craft some unique offerings. Standout seasonal dishes include grilled persimmons with a creamy black lime vinaigrette, crispy kale and puffed grains. The fideo arrives in a rich guajillo sauce with stracciatella, sourdough breadcrumbs and chives, while the braised beans mingle cannellini and fava beans with confit avocado and soft herbs for a warming yet bright side. For a protein-forward option, the outside skirt steak is served with salsa quemada, pomegranate seeds, pickled mustard and crisp radishes.

Beyond this season’s specialties, guests and locals alike can enjoy breakfast on the weekends, along with additional brunch items starting at 11am. Dishes like their chilaquiles with artisanal corn tortillas and the hearty breakfast burrito stuffed with braised beef and Chihuahua cheese start the weekends, while brunch meals like the catfish torta and the Maleza burger with fried peppers and queso fundido round out the days’ items.

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House margaritas and nuanced signature cocktails feature an extensive collection of agave spirits, creating a sense of discovery without pretension. Guests can also choose from a wine list with varietals from around the world, including California, Mexico, France and Spain. 

Beyond the mainstay day-to-night restaurant, the boutique hotel also features a pool home to cabanas and loungers with bright yellow umbrellas; yoga mats and blocks available by request; cruiser bikes to explore downtown; and FORM movement kits and guided workouts available to guests.

Whether you’re escaping Palm Springs’ heat or simply craving a warm, flavorful and bold dining experience, Maleza at Drift Palm Springs is a destination worth experiencing. With its stylish indoor/outdoor setting, inventive seasonal menu and inviting desert energy, it’s the perfect complement to your desert days and nights.