The fact that approximately 100 miles separate Palm Springs from the ocean doesn’t mean the sea’s culinary pleasures can’t be found in this desert city. Crudo Cervicheria is a seafood-centric bistro with fish offerings so fresh, it’s hard to believe that the sounds of breaking waves and flying seagulls cannot be heard nearby.
Defining the interior space, a sleek bar is large and comfortable. But for an idyllic atmosphere, seek out the charming rear patio, where mountain views line the horizon and a firepit crackles with flames after dark.
Consider the cocktail list, not only for its well-crafted drink selection but also because everything is priced at $9, a shockingly great deal recognizable to anyone who has ordered a restaurant drink in the past few years. Some wines can cost a bit more.
The menu’s centerpiece is ceviche. Of the 5 tasty selections, I favored the creamy salmon version with tangy capers and diced onion. Ranchero ceviche, a Mexican-inspired combination of tantalizing white basa and zesty pico de gallo, was a close runner-up.