By Raymond Bill
If you have not had the chance to visit the new Hard Rock Hotel in Palm Springs, you are missing out on the hottest new venue for dining and entertainment in our desert. The moment you enter the hotel, you are surrounded with their signature memorabilia on the walls. Costumes and musical instruments used by legendary performers like Elvis, Cher and Lady Gaga are showcased for all to see. Most plaques mention the stars’ local connection to our valley and you are sure to learn something from a quick stroll through the main lobby. After spending some time to admire the collection, my date and I would end up at Sessions Restaurant for what would be a fantastic dinner.
The dining room is elegant yet casual with hard wood flooring and modern lighting, while the staff was dressed comfortably in khakis and loose shirts. Every single employee was genuinely happy and welcoming, true ambassadors of their restaurant. We were seated in a large booth where we could enjoy our private evening together without feeling like we were center stage. We began with fresh seared Ahi Tuna and a Wedge Salad. Portions were perfect and flavors were grand. The salad was topped with large chunks of candied bacon and bleu cheese dressing. It is my new favorite.
I have to mention that even though we were not seated at the bar, or even close to the bar, I could see from our booth how talented the bartender is by how she interacts with her full counter while preparing drinks for the restaurant. Our cocktails were perfect, and the atmosphere is fun and lively. The music surrounding us was perfect for the venue. We were serenaded by talented, relevant artists like MGMT, Phoenix and Vampire Weekend.
Our entrees arrived, more impressive than described on the menu. I ordered the Steak En Frites and received a large New York strip steak, cooked to order, aside thick Yukon gold potato “fries” with a touch of truffle oil and garnished with large caper berries and greens. The steak was topped with a savory butter that was simply mouthwatering. It was honestly one of the best steaks I have had in the desert, having eaten at every steakhouse. My date enjoyed a slow braised Beef Short Ribs that were as flavorful as they were tender. Our meals were paired with wine from their reasonably priced wine menu. What the menus lack in quantity, they over deliver in quality!
Our server, Cole, was charming and attentive, making our date night memorable. We ordered dessert after his recommendations and shared a trio of sorbet as well as their, “She’s Come Undone” dessert, a deconstructed tiramisu. The lady finger cookies were crunchy, accented with Amaretto Zabaglione and rich Ganache chocolate. Our evening was perfection.
If not for the Rock and Roll history and memorabilia, visit the Hard Rock Hotel for the great food and service at Sessions! Check out their menu online along with other information about the Hard Rock at www.hrhpalmsprings.com or just stop in and see for yourself. The Hard Rock Hotel is located at 150 South Indian Canyon Dr. in the heart of downtown Palm Springs.
