Five Things I’m Currently Loving In The Desert: Burgers, Bots & A New Marketplace

I’ve never been a huge burger person, which explains why it took me so long to try Grill-A-Burger, despite its loyal following. The delay was a definite mistake because everything we ordered during my mom’s rehab stay, from burgers and hot dogs to fries and onion rings, was absolutely top-notch! The chicken strips — forever my meal of choice — were especially tasty! The menu is massive (they offer pretty much everything burger-adjacent), the service incredibly friendly, and the vibes kitschy in the best way. Safe to say, Grill-A-Burger has earned a spot in my regular rotation.

A new large-scale art installation has landed in Indio! The Messengers — two colorful, robot-like structures (or “idols”) standing about 75 feet tall — were originally created as a trio by Sri Lankan artist Kumkum Fernando for the 2023 Coachella festival. Now permanently installed at the corner of Towne Street and Bliss Avenue, they’re vibrant, whimsical, and inspired by the temples and palaces Fernando visited during his childhood in South Asia — bringing a beautifully worldly air to the Valley. (Fun fact: the third Messenger can be found at a private home nearby.)

From restaurateurs (and Ladies of London alums) Matt and Marissa Hermer comes the Thompson hotel’s newest dining venture, Bar Issi. Wrapped in warm blushes, lush greens, and striking patterns, the space — designed by Tom Parker of Fettle and inspired by both The White Lotus and the Madonna Inn — is absolutely stunning! And the Italian-inspired menu is equally impressive. I visited for lunch, which means I (tragically) missed out on the housemade puccia bread and trio of butters that’s become an Instagram staple — but I plan to rectify that stat!

Pretty much everyone who walks into Kaylie Nicole’s El Paseo boutique comments on the mesmerizing scent — a divinely intoxicating blend of all-natural cardamom, cinnamon, iris, and sandalwood that lingers in the best way. And now, you can bring it home! The shop’s new signature fragrance line includes candles, diffuser oil, room spray, and an insanely nourishing whipped body butter! I snapped up a jar of the latter recently and am obsessed! My skin has seriously never felt (or smelled) better!

A dynamic new space celebrating local talent has arrived in Indio! Community marketplace The Place is absolutely massive and packed with some of the best locally made goods the Valley has to offer. Nearly all of my favorites are there — including Mijo Co. candles (their pop-up, pictured, looks like an album cover!), Covet fine jewelry, Bobo Design Studio stationery, Jewelry by SARAHI baubles, It Refillspersonal care products, Palm Springs Bottle Shop spirits, and a beautifully curated display by Studio Hang. It’s a true one-stop shop for all of the Valley’s best finds!