Photography by Brandon Harman

Set at the historic Palm Springs Tennis Club, an exclusive gathering place since its inception in the 1930s for such celebrities as Katherine Hepburn and Bob Hope, Spencer’s Restaurant is synonymous with the desert’s classic style. Elegance and comfortable informality intertwine to accommodate any dining occasion, from a power lunch or private party to a romantic evening for two or Sunday brunch.

Named after owner Harold Matzner’s award-winning 110-pound Siberian husky, the restaurant welcomes wellbehaved pups on its three patios. Outdoor seating is temperaturecontrolled, and the terrace is shaded by trees — a scenic atmosphere rivaled only by the sumptuous cuisine. The colossal shrimp cocktail, pan-fried Chilean sea bass, Australian rock lobster tail, center-cut veal chop, and Black Angus filet mignon are house favorites, but save room for dessert: The banana split is sinfully good, and the 24 Carrot cake is a must. The extensive wine list, which garnered the Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, and craft cocktails from the indoor-outdoor bar complement any meal.

Spencer’s exquisite atmosphere has garnered national acclaim. It was named one of the “100 Best Brunch and Alfresco Restaurants in America” by OpenTable diners and has won many local best-of-the-best honors.

The storied mountainside Bougainvillea Room is a picture-perfect setting for weddings and events of up to 250 guests. Additionally, Spencer’s offers a full catering menu of services through its subsidiary, Carousel Catering, which provides off-site catering anywhere in the Coachella Valley.