Introduction

If you’re lucky enough to get a reservation, Bar Cecil is a must to visit in Palm Springs during Modernism Week! Located in the heart of downtown, this modern, chic bar offers a variety of craft cocktails, craft beer, wine, and small bites. It also has an outdoor patio and cozy lounge area, perfect for relaxing with friends. The interior features midcentury modern design elements, and the bar has an amazing, curated selection of art. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a relaxing happy hour, Bar Cecil is the perfect spot.

The historic vibe of Bar Cecil

Per the restaurant owners, Bar Cecil is a homage to Cecil Beaton, a renaissance man who was equal parts rebel and aristocrat, an artist who lived between classical charm and new world rebellion, a provocateur, an Expressionist, and an aesthete who incorporated many mediums to create a style all his own.  Beaton photographed World War II battles as well as celebrities, and also worked as an oil painter, illustrator, and Academy Award-winning costume designer. More important, he loved the good life.

The owners describe Bar Cecil as a love letter to Beaton’s vision of life and art: a celebration of what’s good, of eliminating that which is only pomp, and in the process creating memories through food, drink and hospitality. Bar Cecil is for those who follow the beat to their own drum, horn or whatever inspires them to create, to be individuals, and to embrace diversity.

Modernism Week Dining Guide:  Bar Cecil

Bar Cecil's Menu

Chef Gabriel Woo’s bistro-style dishes, smart bar, and eclectic décor make Bar Cecil a new favorite in Greater Palm Springs. Chef Woo presents a decadent menu with equal attention to quality, flavor, and plating. Just like the space, the menu is filled with whimsy and winks, like the burger that’s branded with the restaurant’s name and served in a paper box. Or the Fifty Dollar Martini, made with Russian-imported Beluga vodka and served on a silver tray beside a miniature food dome covering a caviar-and-sunchoke-chip-topped deviled egg. Items like caviar, homemade pasta, and wagyu steak invite indulgence and play well with a tantalizing menu of mixologist-crafted drinks.

To experience a mix of signature dishes, special off-menu items, and over-the-top extravagance, the Beaton Experience offers a 10-course dinner with wine pairings limited to one group a night and priced at $300 a person.

Scrumptious Menu choices include:

Pan Seared Jumbo Scallops

Cacio E Pepe

King Trumpet Mushrooms

Westholme Australian Wagyu Tomahawk Steak

Colossal Shrimp Cocktail

Aniston’s Pavlova (To die for!)

 

Modernism dining guide: Bar Cecil

The Decor at Bar Cecil

With sumptuous design that straddles unique and chic, boasting walls splashed with an impressive private collection of modern art (including signed pieces by Alexander Calder, Ellsworth Kelly, Damien Hirst, Sam Francis, and Donald Sultan) here you’ll find a visual feast—as well as the hottest table in town, as stated by Michelin Guide.

The intimate dining room and bar is a modern take on English wallpapers, warm woods and brass finishes, and the restaurant’s 75 seats also include chic and intimate patio dining.  Timeless photographs from Beaton’s portfolio also line the walls. Murals and painted details from local artist Tysen Knight complete the collection. The atmosphere is lively and casual, with a spacious patio for dining al fresco, while enjoying Palm Springs’ temperate weather.


Locals tip:

  Definitely take a bathroom break while you’re there to check out one of the cheekiest johns in Palm Springs.

Modernism week dining guide: Bar Cecil

 

Bar Cecil Reservations, Location and Hours

Bar Cecil is often booked out well in advance, so make your reservations early to ensure you get a seat (though walk-ins are welcome at the bar).

www.BarCecil.com

1555 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

Open 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM

442-332-3800

Bar Cecil’s mantra:
  “Let’s celebrate each other. Laughing, discussing the day and enjoying each other’s company over beautifully crafted food and drink.”

Check out other favorite restaurants in the Coachella Valley, here.

If you’re enjoying your time in Palm Springs, imagine what it would be like to live here!  If you’re interested in exploring buying a home here in Palm Springs, please reach out to us.  We’d love to chat with you about it.  760-459-1396  [email protected]  www.PaulKaplanHomes.com

 

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