Last week, I got the dreaded call to report to jury duty in Indio. While sitting in the crowded juror room awaiting instruction, I listened to my frustrated peers complain about the lack of nearby attractions (Applebee’s, notwithstanding). The experience brought me back more than a decade to when I served on a weeklong case in downtown L.A. and the long daily lunches that led to impromptu explorations of the city. Contrary to the laments of my recent fellow jurors, I am thrilled to report that similar lunchtime adventures can be had by those serving in Indio, albeit on a smaller scale. Below, you’ll find five spots (all within half a mile of the Larson Justice Center) to visit when you’re inevitably called to fulfill your civic duty in the Coachella Valley.
xo, Lindsay
GABINO’S CREPERIE
This new outpost of the beloved Palm Springs staple cooks up insanely delicious savory crepes, with massive servings that will keep you satiated throughout any prolonged afternoon testimony. The open kitchen also grants patrons an up-close-and-personal view of the chefs working their craft. Bonus – Gabino’s delivers, so if you don’t feel like leaving the courthouse, you can have one of their tasty concoctions brought to you.
ENCORE COFFEE BAR
This live music venue/café brews some fabulous java in an eclectic environment. Serving Coachella Valley Coffee, tea from La Quinta fave Cali Rosina, and a selection of baked goods, this is the spot to stop for a mid-day pick-me-up or in the morning before heading to court. Fun fact – Abi Carter held a private farewell concert on the premises before venturing to Hollywood for her recent star-making turn on “American Idol.”
“HAPPY ALLEY“
Perched in the grassy expanse at Bliss Ave. & Towne St. (a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, BTW!), this statue was built for 2022’s Power Trip heavy metal festival. Crafted by Santa Fe-based sculptors (and frequent Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival contributors) Don Kennell and Lisa Adler, the rockin’ cactus is a cheeky addition to the landscape and provides some much-needed shade on hot days.
COACHELLA VALLEY HISTORY MUSEUM
Prefer a side of history with your lunch breaks? Head to the Coachella Valley History Museum! Hosting a wide range of exhibits highlighting our desert’s past, attractions include a 1909 schoolhouse, a Japanese memorial garden, a 1926 water tower, a 1930s adobe residence and an outdoor gallery with a genuine blacksmith’s workshop. (The museum is closed Tuesday through Thursday, so plan accordingly.)
BONUS – ITALICA
If you’re looking for an after-hours spot for dinner and cocktails, hit up Italica! The new speakeasy, helmed by former Goldenvoice COO Skip Paige, is discreetly situated behind a metal-clad door just west of the Indio Taphouse (another great local lunch joint). The Italian-inspired tapas bar offers an immersive family-style experience unlike anything else you’ll find in Indio. (Reservations are required, so plan ahead.)