John Henry's Cafe

One of the best-kept secrets of eateries in Palm Springs is John Henry's Café. This restaurant, celebrating over thirty years of service, has become a cherished destination for locals and discerning visitors.

John Henry's Café was founded on a philosophy that combines the essentials of dining: good food, impeccable service, and affordable prices. This foundational principle has been the guiding star of the establishment since its inception. 

The café was initially opened by Chef John Laslo and his partner Angelo, who infused the restaurant with a commitment to quality and a welcoming spirit. 

Today, owners Luis Karam and Alfredo Cortes continue this tradition, ensuring that every visit to John Henry's is both a delightful meal and a magical experience. Remarkably, they have retained nearly all of the original staff, including the lead chefs, a testament to the café's commitment to consistency and quality.

The café operates from Tuesday to Sunday, welcoming guests from 5 PM to 9:30 PM. Closed on Mondays, it provides the ideal evening retreat for those looking to unwind and indulge in a memorable dining experience. The café's reputation as "The Best Kept Secret in the Desert" is a badge of honor, symbolizing its unique charm and the high value it places on its guests, who are treated like family.

Vibe

The cafe's exterior is characterized by a large, expansive outdoor patio. This area is enveloped by lush greenery, creating a tranquil oasis that feels secluded from the outside world. The patio is decorated with quaint furniture, adding to the charm and relaxed vibe of the space. This setting is perfect for leisurely breakfasts, casual lunches, or intimate dinners under the open sky.

As you step through the doors of John Henry's, you're greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The interior design fosters a sense of comfort and ease, making it a great spot to unwind. The establishment's charm lies not only in its tasteful decor but also in the engaging conversations you can have with fellow patrons and staff. 

This welcoming environment contributes to the cafe's reputation as a local favorite, where visitors can immerse themselves in an authentic local experience away from the usual tourist spots​.

John Henry's Cafe: Menu & Drinks 

John Henry's Cafe serves entrees one wouldn't associate with a diner or hole-in-the-wall joint. Expect dishes catering to different tastes, from the hearty to the exotic.

A meal at John Henry's begins with a selection of appetizers that set the tone for an exquisite dining experience. Options like the escargot, broiled artichoke, jumbo shrimp cocktail, smoked mozzarella with roasted red peppers, and the Maryland blue Crab cake offer a gourmet taste​.

When it comes to dinner, pasta lovers will marvel at choices like lobster ravioli with brown butter, penne al pesto, and fettuccine alfredo, which are standouts​​. 

However, the real stars are dishes like the macadamia nut-crusted sole with mango butter and John Henry's meatloaf, which showcase the cafe's ability to blend comfort food with a touch of the exotic​​. 

Reviewers specifically praised the perfectly cooked lamb shanks and sole with almond crust, noting the large portions and the quality of sides like green beans and carrots​.

As for drinks, the cafe boasts a full-service bar with an array of mixed spirits, bottled beers, and an extensive wine list available by bottle or glass​​. Reviewers have highlighted the quality of cocktails and wine selections, suggesting that the beverage options are as thoughtfully curated as the food menu​​.

When visiting the Palm Springs area, try "The Best Kept Secret in the Desert," John Henry's Cafe.