The express elevator at the Kimpton Rowan Hotel delivers guests to Palm Springs’ highest culinary destination, where the urban landscape stretches below and the majestic San Jacinto Mountains dominate the horizon. 4 Saints restaurant, situated on the seventh floor, offers a 270-degree panoramic perspective that transforms an excellent meal into an extraordinary experience.

The culinary team brings a distinctive Southern influence to a menu that celebrates California’s abundant natural offerings. This thoughtful fusion of Southern hospitality and Mediterranean sensibilities with the region’s Latin heritage creates a unique dining proposition not found elsewhere in Palm Springs.

Distinctive culinary identity

The culinary philosophy at 4 Saints revolves around shareable plates that highlight seasonal ingredients with a Mediterranean foundation. The kitchen elevates these dishes with global techniques that strike a masterful balance between wholesome and indulgent. Small plates allow for communal dining experiences while showcasing pristine seafood, heritage vegetables from local farms, and premium meats prepared on the restaurant’s signature grill.

The Ube Gnocchi combines purple yam with brown butter, dashi Dijon, and sesame seeds for a cross-cultural flavour profile that surprises and delights. Seafood enthusiasts gravitate toward the Icelandic Salmon with its miso glaze, buckwheat soba noodles, snap peas, Japanese mushrooms, and aromatic five-spice broth – a dish that exemplifies the restaurant’s coastal influences.

Mixology and wine programme

The bar programme at 4 Saints deserves special recognition for its thoughtful approach to complementing the menu. Creative cocktails incorporate regional elements, such as the signature date-infused Old Fashioned that pays homage to the Coachella Valley’s agricultural heritage. For groups seeking a more theatrical experience, the option to order punch bowl versions of favourite cocktails served in striking gold flamingo vessels adds a playful element to the sophisticated setting.

California wines feature prominently on the carefully curated list, with selections that spotlight the state’s diverse wine regions and pair harmoniously with the menu’s flavour profiles. The recently launched Happy Hour (Wednesday-Sunday, 4-6 p.m.) provides an accessible entry point to sample the establishment’s mixology prowess before dinner service begins at 5 p.m.

A culinary journey: from starters to desserts

Starters

The Short Rib Ravioli serves as a remarkable introduction to the culinary approach. The four-hour braising process yields tender, flavourful meat encased in delicate pasta. The addition of earthy Shimeji mushrooms provides textural contrast while Swiss chard delivers fresh, vegetal notes. A sprinkle of pecorino and chives adds sharpness and brightness, with the cabernet reduction creating a sophisticated sauce that ties the elements together beautifully.

The Burrata starter showcases the kitchen’s commitment to elegant simplicity. The creamy, fresh cheese arrives alongside house-made fig jam that balances sweetness with depth. A drizzle of quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil adds acidity and richness, while tarragon contributes subtle anise notes. The accompanying grilled sourdough offers the perfect vehicle for this harmonious combination – crusty exterior giving way to tender crumb that absorbs the flavourful components magnificently.

Mains

The 8 oz. Wagyu Steak Frites exemplifies the kitchen’s precision with premium ingredients. The Wagyu flatiron arrives with a textbook sear that gives way to a perfectly pink interior, allowing the exceptional marbling of this prized beef to shine. The accompanying truffle Parmesan French fries are impeccably crisp outside yet fluffy within, with earthy truffle and nutty cheese notes elevating the dish. The house-made 4 Saints steak sauce provides a sophisticated accompaniment that enhances rather than masks the quality of the meat.

The Chilean Sea Bass represents the pinnacle of thoughtful seafood preparation. Pan-roasted to achieve crisp skin while maintaining the fish’s delicate, moist flesh, it arrives atop a vibrant ratatouille that celebrates seasonal vegetables. Baby spinach adds freshness, while the aromatic tomato sauce provides a Mediterranean foundation. The finishing touch of basil oil adds colour and herbaceous notes that complement the mild, buttery character of the sea bass perfectly.

Desserts

The Pear Sticky Toffee Pudding reinterprets a British classic with California sensibilities. The molasses cake provides deep caramel notes and impressive moisture, while the toasted sesame anglaise adds nutty complexity. Poached pear contributes elegant fruit flavour and textural contrast, with the caramel gelato melting gently into the warm pudding to create a magnificent interplay of temperatures and textures that rewards each spoonful.

For chocolate enthusiasts, the Dark Chocolate Torte delivers profound cocoa richness without becoming overwhelmingly sweet. The raspberry coulis cuts through the intensity with bright acidity, while fresh blueberries and raspberries provide bursts of juicy freshness. The innovative date crust offers natural sweetness and satisfying chew, with pistachio and mint garnishes adding colour, texture and aromatic lift to this sophisticated finale.

Architectural design and atmosphere

The restaurant space marries contemporary design elements with nods to the desert landscape. Leather banquettes and a handsome central bar create a stylish yet comfortable interior space. However, the open-air patio remains the coveted seating area, allowing guests to savour Palm Springs’ favourable climate while taking in the dramatic mountain backdrop.

As the only rooftop dining venue in downtown Palm Springs, 4 Saints offers an atmosphere that shifts seamlessly from relaxed afternoon gatherings to sophisticated evening dining. The space manages to feel simultaneously exclusive and welcoming – a challenging balance that speaks to the thoughtful service approach championed by the team.

Private events and special occasions

The restaurant caters to exclusive gatherings with a private dining space accommodating up to 20 guests. The versatile room can be configured with formal dining arrangements or transformed with a billiard table for more casual functions. Complete with dedicated bar service and customisable lighting and music, the space offers a personalised setting for celebrations while maintaining access to the venue’s signature views.

This adaptability extends to the main dining area as well, which transitions effortlessly from intimate date nights to group celebrations. The shared plate concept encourages conversation and connection among diners, making 4 Saints an ideal choice for both professional gatherings and personal milestones.

Recognition and seasonal offerings

The Michelin Guide has recognised 4 Saints, a notable achievement that validates the culinary vision. Unlike many Palm Springs establishments that modify operations during the intense summer heat, 4 Saints maintains year-round service, adapting seasonal menus to showcase the best available ingredients regardless of the calendar.

The desert climate influences the menu development, with lighter options featuring prominently during warmer months. The Chilean Sea Bass exemplifies this approach, pairing pan-roasted fish with ratatouille, baby spinach, aromatic tomato sauce, and basil oil for a dish that satisfies without overwhelming the palate during warm weather.

The combination of culinary excellence, unmatched views, and thoughtful service has established 4 Saints as a destination that transcends typical restaurant expectations. For those seeking a truly exceptional Palm Springs dining experience, this rooftop gem delivers memorable moments well beyond the plate.