Johnny Costa's Ristorante

Written by K. Hart at www.casago.com
Johnny Costa's Ristorante exterior
cannoli plate with wine
cocktail and a glass of wine
Johnny Costa's Ristorante dining area

About

Since its inception in 1976, Johnny Costa's Ristorante has offered the Palm Springs area exquisite Italian cuisine. 

He moved from NY to Hollywood in the 60s and befriended Frank Sinatra. When Costa became Sinatra's personal chef, he dreamed of opening his own restaurant. 

When opportunity knocked on Costa's door, he jumped. The chef launched his career with one goal: serving authentic Italian food.

Johnny knew he was on the right path when Frank Sinatra made Johnny Costa's Ristorante his go-to eatery. 

While the exquisite food at Johnny Costa's Ristorante attracts guests, the warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service set the bistro apart.

Johnny Costa's Ristorante offers indoor and outdoor dining options. Whether looking for a romantic dinner under the stars or a cozy meal indoors, Johnny Costa's Ristorante promises an unforgettable dining experience. 

Johnny Costa's Ristorante has earned a reputation for serving fine Italian cuisine and providing customers with a memorable dining experience. Takeout service is available for those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home.

Johnny Costa's Ristorante should be on your list when you're in Palm Springs and craving authentic Italian fare. With its rich history, delicious food, and exceptional service, it's no wonder that this restaurant has been a favorite for over four decades.

Vibe 

Johnny Costa's Ristorante blends classic Italian charm and Californian elegance, creating a comforting and sophisticated ambiance. While the facade is unassuming, with a modest sign, don't be lulled into thinking you're in for a similar dining experience. Once inside, you are transported to a world of Italian grandeur. The warm, inviting atmosphere welcomes you like family. Its decor is reminiscent of a classic Italian trattoria, with dark wood furnishings, white tablecloths, and soft lighting that creates an intimate and cozy vibe. 

The walls are adorned with black-and-white photos of famous patrons, including Frank Sinatra. The overall effect is one of stepping back in time to the Rat Pack era with a dose of Old World charm.

The main dining room is spacious yet intimate, with tables well-spaced for privacy. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating. Diners can savor their meal under the beautiful Palm Springs sky, adding a uniquely Californian touch to the Italian dining experience.

The staff at Johnny Costa's Ristorante further contributes to the welcoming atmosphere. They are attentive and professional, ensuring every guest feels like a VIP. 

Whether you visit for a romantic dinner or a more significant celebration, the team at Johnny Costa's makes every effort to create a memorable dining experience.

Johnny Costa's Ristorante: Menu & Drinks

With a history connected to the famed Rat Pack and made-to-order cuisine, diners are guaranteed a unique dining experience at Johnny Costa's Ristorante.

This family-owned and operated restaurant has served the community since 1976, making it a staple in the Palm Springs dining scene.

One of the must-try dishes at Johnny Costa's Ristorante is the Linguini with Clams or Mussels. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with fresh seafood flavor, all tossed in a rich, garlicky sauce. 

When you want to taste nostalgia, the perfect choice is Steak Sinatra. Chefs pan-sear a well-trimmed NY Strip steak and then saute it in garlic, mushrooms, green peppers, and red wine sauce. Pasta-of-the-day and your choice of soup or salad come on the side. 

As for drinks, Johnny Costa's Ristorante offers a variety of options to complement your meal. A classic cocktail is the Dean Martini, a tip of the hat to Rat Pack member Dean Martin. This libation features Tito's Handmade Vodka, Dirty Sue olive juice, blue cheese olives, and a twist. The restaurant also features a comprehensive wine list from local California wineries and Italian vineyards. 

Their homemade Italian sodas are a must-try for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.

Combine classic Italian cuisine with an inviting ambiance, and you'll be in for a pleasant dining experience at Johnny Costa's Ristorante on your Palm Springs vacation.

Local Tips

  • Johnny Costa's Ristorante is closed on Mondays.
  • The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining options.
  • Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant directly or through OpenTable.
  • Parking can be tricky during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
  • The restaurant's tiramisu has been recognized as the best in Palm Springs, so save room for dessert.
  • Johnny Costa's Ristorante can accommodate parties of 10 to 120 guests, making it an excellent option for special events.

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