Ask Lindsay: Your Desert Questions, Answered

Facilitated by the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Coachella Valley is a nine-month initiative for current and emerging local leaders, welcoming a new class of 40–50 participants each year. I was lucky enough to be accepted into the Class of 2026, which kicked off with its first session in September. (Photos above were taken during that inaugural meet-up.)

Now celebrating its 25th year (anniversary party info here!), the hands-on, immersive program dives into the Valley’s history, culture, infrastructure, government, and economy through nine intensive — and thoroughly invigorating — day-long sessions, held once a month, covering topics such as education, arts, conservation, and other aspects of community life — all while fostering meaningful relationships and cultivating leadership skills. The program also boasts an extensive alumni network, providing ongoing learning opportunities and nourishing relationships that last far beyond the nine-month journey.

Through LCV, I’ve toured corners of the Valley I never knew existed — schools, government facilities, food banks, rescue missions, nonprofits — and gained a much deeper appreciation for the people and organizations that shape our community. I’ve met some of the desert’s most dynamic, passionate individuals and learned from their perspectives and experiences.

In short? Joining has been one of the best decisions of my life. And I’m only halfway through!

Being part of this year’s class is a true gift and an ongoing reminder of how lucky I am to call this Valley home.  Want to join next year’s class? Applications open in May. Learn more here.

This question comes from my pal Cherry, owner of Roam.e, whose friend recently visited The Living Desert and noticed the Petting Kraal looked a bit different. She reached out to Cherry for insight and Cherry, in turn, texted me — thinking I might have the scoop. And she was right — thanks to one of my Leadership Coachella Valley classmates who works at the zoo and with whom I had just been discussing this very topic!

The Living Desert’s walk-in petting zoo, located inside Village WaTuTu, has always been one of my favorite spots to visit. (I even once met actor Jeremy London there! Photo above.) With the resident goats getting older and the zoo deepening its focus on conservation and animal welfare, the space was recently refreshed with a new layout to provide a more peaceful and comfortable environment for the animals.

The good news? Visitors can still go inside the Petting Kraal and interact with the beloved Nigerian dwarf goats — just now from the other side of a low fence. The Living Desert is planning additional enhancements to the habitat in the coming weeks, as well, so be sure to  keep an eye on the zoo’s socials for updates.

A flight attendant friend recently flew into the Valley for a brief layover and was put up at a hotel near Sherman’s Deli & Bakery. She and her crew passed by the eatery on their way out to explore and she texted me to ask if it was any good. I literally couldn’t respond fast enough — Sherman’s is a desert staple!

Their club sandwich— modified to add cheddar and avocado and minus the third slice of bread (pictured) — is one of my all-time favorite meals! If I’m anywhere in the vicinity, you can bet I’m popping in to snag one! My husband and I once spent a week at the Hilton right across the street and I ordered a club every single day for lunch. It was a dream! 

My friend and her crew stopped by Sherman’s later that night for baked goods to take back to the hotel . . . though I don’t think anything actually made it out of the restaurant. The second the to-go cartons were handed over, everyone dug right in. She’s since had another Palm Springs stopover and made sure to swing by again to pick up desserts for her mom to enjoy back home.

This question comes from my mom, who recently met up with some out-of-town friends for a late breakfast/early lunch in Palm Desert. Said friends visit the Valley every year and my mom was hoping to take them somewhere they hadn’t already been. They also prefer heartier meals and love bakery treats — so I put on my thinking cap and came up with the tailored list below.

Wonder (pictured) — If you’re looking for a sugary breakfast (which my mom’s friends definitely were!), this spot should be top of mind. While being diabetic, I’ve never indulged — I usually go for a sausage patty, eggs and a latte (all delish) — the French Toast here is a gluttonous gem topped with berries, syrup, chantilly cream, powdered sugar and cotton candy. Every time I’ve seen it served, the entire restaurant comes alive with oohs and ahhs. There are also plenty of tempting baked goods like donuts, croissants and danishes on hand.

Grill-A-Burger — If you’re seeking variety, this place has you covered. Despite what the name implies, it’s so much more than just a burger joint. The massive menu includes everything from hot dogs to salads to chicken strips (my personal favorite) — all grilled, tossed and fried to perfection.

Sherman’s — Though I much prefer the Palm Springs location, you can’t go wrong with a meal at Sherman’s for all the reasons noted above – hearty servings, sumptuous comfort fare and desserts that barely make it out of the box.

Keedy’s Fountain & Grill — This desert institution has been keeping hungry patrons satisfied since 1957. Serving up diner classics and generously portioned breakfasts (the pancakes can’t be beat!), this greasy spoon is one of my family’s favorite local establishments. That said, I’d skip the sister location in Indio, which, in my experience, doesn’t offer the same quality fare.

D’Coffee Bouteaque — Best known for its extensive and imaginative coffee menu (think salted caramel lattes, lavender cold brews and Oreo mochas), the food offerings are just as delectable. From Bananas Foster French Toast to Jumbo Lump Crab Benedict to the Egg White Plate, there’s something for every palate.

The Wine & Cheese Shop on El Paseo — I’ve made copious mention of this place on Instagram and in past newsletters because I truly can’t get enough. The sandwiches are next level (French ham & brie on a croissant? Yes, please!) — hands down some of the best in the Valley. The salads are also top-notch for those looking for something lighter. Don’t miss owner Jen’s take on La Scala’s legendary Chop Salad (yep, the one the Kardashians put on the map).

Project Burger — Though I haven’t dined here yet, I hear it’s the place for burger lovers. Offering a stellar selection of smash burgers alongside substantial sandwiches, this newer spot (opened in December) has been receiving seriously rave reviews.

Palm Springs has certainly seen an influx of filming as of late. The new Mickey Rourke film, Mascots, shot out here in late January and you probably caught recent news reports about the cast and crew of The Lincoln Lawyer descending upon The Saguaro to film an episode for the show’s fourth season, which just hit Netflix this month. My friend happened to be staying at the hotel at the time and was invited to be featured in the background of a scene while lounging poolside. (That’s her photo of actor Angus Sampson during the shoot pictured above.)

After hearing about The Lincoln Lawyer filming, my bestie Heidi, owner of Lucky Linqs, immediately texted saying, “We need to sign up to be extras!”

If you’re tempted, as well, you can register to be a background actor with the Greater Palm Springs Film Alliance & Film Office. It’s as simple as uploading a headshot (a phone pic works just fine), filling out your contact information, inputting a few basic stats, and you’ll be ready for your close-up in no time!