Five Things I’m Currently Loving In The Desert: The Desert’s First Matcha Bar, A Beloved Café’s Return & A Landmark Makeover

After fueling the Valley’s matcha obsession via a year and a half of wildly popular pop-ups, the beloved Buena Matcha has found a permanent home on El Paseo! The new space, beautifully styled by Hagit Taylor Design, is chic and welcoming – and serves up what is easily the finest organic ceremonial grade matcha in town, each drink hand-crafted by Nahum and Kayla and their expert team. The shop is already insanely popular, but don’t let the long lines deter you. Buena Matcha is worth the wait!

As part of its ongoing expansion project, the Palm Springs Air Museum recently unveiled its new facade — and it is stunning! Designed by HED, which took cues from both the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Air Force Academy’s Cadet Chapel, the eye-catching edifice reimagines the museum’s entrance via a series of midcentury-esque turbine-inspired columns. The striking update brings the beloved landmark into the modern era while still honoring the rich history of flight.

Opened last fall on the grounds of The Skylark hotel, this newish Coastal American eatery promptly earned a cult following and snagged a Diner’s Choice award from OpenTable – and it’s not very hard to see why. I recently popped in for breakfast and devoured both the swanky décor and the delectable fare (Parmesan Egg Skillet, anyone?). With a lineup of craft cocktails and an elevated menu — including what is said to be the best burger in town — the place is a fabulous addition to the Palm Springs dining scene.

My favorite Palm Springs gift destination just became even more fabulous with the debut of its highly anticipated sister store, Just Fabulous Home. Located kitty-corner from the original in the Shops at the Corridor complex, the boutique is housed in a charming former bungalow teeming with playful, design-forward finds sure to complement any abode. From books and barware to cooking tools and candles, it’s a fabulous place to pick up a thoughtful hostess gift — or a little something for yourself.

There’s pretty much nothing I love more than an independent coffee house done right. So I was devastated when Palm Desert gem D’Coffee Bouteaque was razed in a fire last April. But I’m happy to report that the café is back — and better than ever. Now in a new location, it still offers the same extravagantly whimsical ambiance, friendly service, and wildly creative menu (Oreo Lover’s Latte, Candy Cane Mocha, Lavender Field Cold Brew — oh my!). The re-opening marks a happy return for a cherished café that continues to serve up charm, one mismatched vintage cup at a time.