As I continue to seek out the best restaurants in Palm Springs, I realize how many choices in which we have to dine. With so many new restaurants opening and the busy season upon us, there is much competition for a great dining experience. With the success of Cheeky’s and Jiao, a new restaurant is open at the North end of Palm Canyon. Birba is a small eatery that boasts great pizzas and cocktails while offering many other gourmet treats in a modern yet welcoming outdoor environment.
Perfect for a date night, we could see the glow of the lights in the patio trees as we walked toward the restaurant. Whether they are just for the holiday or year round, these lights set the ambiance and make the most of their space as there is no indoor seating. While there is a covered bar that displays many spirits and liqueurs and offering the full menu, tables are available on the large patio for dining. We were seated at a table of our choice, one of just a few available. We were immediately offered a beverage and the service was consistent. After a cocktail and some light conversation, we began with a starter salad. The Tricolore Chopped Salad was light yet intense with flavor. A medley of arugula, radicchio and endive lettuces, this appetizer is topped with shaved parmesan and fried garlic slivers that give a savory kick that lingers on your taste buds.
I had heard how wonderful their pizzas are and I will definitely return to try them, but I decided to order the Salmon en Papillote: Wild Salmon wrapped in parchment paper and filled with orzo pasta. The fish was fresh and perfectly prepared. Placed in front of me on a small wooden board, I was left to unwrap my meal as if it were a holiday present. It would have been a nice touch had the server offered to do this as it can be a little messy, but it was not a difficult task. My date was halfway through the Eggplant Bolognese when I was offered a bite. It was delicious! Not too tender and mushy nor too firm, this dish was reminiscent of the Eggplant Parmesan offered in a local fine dining Italian restaurant, only meatier.
Entrée portions are light compared to some restaurants but were perfect for my taste. It allowed us to have just enough room to share the Olive Oil Cake with an Orange Crème Fraiche. The cake was moist and the topping was rich and tangy. The food is an incredible value and portioned well. Overall, I would say this restaurant contributed to a wonderful night out on the town! Birba is closed Monday and Tuesday, serving dinner from 5pm Wednesday through Sunday. Dinner service is extended to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and lunch is offered weekends from 11am to 5pm. Birba is located at 622 N. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs and you can see more of their menu at www.birbaps.com or call at 760-327-5678.
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