About
Touted as a “High Desert Experiment” in 29 Palms, Kitchen in the Desert serves New American fare with a Caribbean twist.
Chef Everton Gordon is the brainchild behind this restaurant. In 2015, he transformed an area behind a gas station into an epicurean hotspot. Known locally as KITD, his eatery showcased food, art, and music.
The jerk chicken has become a signature dish, attracting visitors and celebrities who can’t get enough of its bold, spicy flavors. Additionally, the Caribbean-inspired brunch and dinner menus showcase entrees that appeal to a variety of palates.
But it’s not just about the food. Kitchen in the Desert is also committed to sustainability, using water-conscious cooking methods and reducing food waste.
The eatery is near other landmarks, making it easy to create a fun-filled itinerary. For example, visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum in the morning, then grab brunch at KITD. Or after a filling lunch, visit Pioneertown and a live concert with drinks at Pappy’s & Harriet’s.
Whether you combine a visit with sightseeing or come to explore the flavors, Kitchen in the Desert promises a dining experience you won’t forget.
Vibe
If it weren’t for the expansive outdoor dining area out back, you might overlook the building. The structure resembles the surrounding one-story homes, while the roadside bushes add a touch of greenery. However, the landscape around the entrance makes it difficult to spot.
The cozy interior features rustic and modern elements like warm lighting, wooden accents, and local artwork. It’s a chic yet approachable space, making it ideal for relaxing and being yourself.
The seating area is small, while the bar offers a more casual dining spot. But the main attraction per seating is that large backyard area. Here, umbrella-covered tables, palm trees, cacti, and patio lights strung across the area attract diners like honey to bees. When the desert evening cools, space heaters fire up. Shade canopies dotting the space make noontime meals enjoyable.
No matter what time of day you dine, the ambiance is everything you’d want on a California vacation.
Kitchen in the Desert: Menu & Drinks
Let’s cut to the chase: the renowned jerk chicken. This dish is what put KITD on the culinary map, featuring allspice, pimento, sweet potato, and a pepper sauce.
All menu items come à la carte, so if you need a side, consider something scrumptious like the Beet Salad. Aside from red, juicy beets, this fresh dish showcases toasted walnuts, quinoa, shaved carrots, goat cheese, and pickled onion. Toss in the organic parsley, arugula, dill, and balsamic dressing, and the salad could easily suffice as a meal.
Another favorite is the lamb pops, using unique spices like sumac and fennel. The arugula, capers, and garlicky-mint flavors of the chimichurri put this entree over the top!
The brunch menu offers a wide variety of choices, including salads, smash burgers, pear pancakes, and avocado and salmon toast. The Bacon Egg & Cheese will satisfy those seeking a more traditional breakfast of scrambled eggs, applewood bacon, Gouda cheese, Chadon beni sauce, and focaccia bread.
Regarding drinks, the beer and wine list offers selections that pair with any dish. The specialty cocktails are also appealing, like the Cucumber Martini that will cool you off on a hot day. This libation features gin, muddled cucumber, freshly squeezed lime juice, bitters, cherry juice, and aquafaba.
When the sun sets, the Spicy Mezcal Mule will set the stage for an enjoyable evening. With mezcal, habanero-infused lime juice, orange bitters, and ginger beer, it’s the perfect combo of cool, smoky, and spicy.
By now, you can tell that dining at Kitchen in the Desert is an experience not to be missed. The combination of incredible food, creative drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a highlight of any High Desert getaway.
Local Tips
- Reservations are encouraged, especially for patio dining.
- Follow their social media for live music and special events.
- Brunch is from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM.
- Let KITD cater your special occasion or milestone.
