BY CRAIG MICHAELS
On the corner of Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope Dr. is where you will find the S at Rancho Mirage. The S Club (Formally Desert Island) is home to the only high-rise condos in the Coachella Valley. It is also home to the valley’s newest restaurant called The Craft. This once, members-only restaurant, is now open to the general public. Just drive up to the gate to let them know you’re there for dinner and enjoy the country club lifestyle without the membership!
The Craft at Rancho Mirage is the brainchild of Chef Erick Hernandez. Chef Erick Hernandez is a native to the Coachella valley and was born in Palm Springs, CA. Hernandez was previously executive chef and food and beverage director for Indian Canyons Golf Resort. Prior to being at Indian Canyons Golf Resort he was Executive Sous Chef for the Reopening of Escena Golf Course. He received his associates in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Management at the Culinary Institute in San Diego, CA. Prior to his management experience, Chef Hernandez learned under Executive Chef Martin Woesle at the pristine Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. Chef is very excited to show case his passion for California Cuisine by using fresh quality and locally sourced ingredients.
Although Erick has lots of experience in the kitchen, he knew he would need a partner that was no stranger to food & beverage to handle the business side of things. He approached his friend, John Trad, who has been working in the food industry for decades and the two of them decided to pair up. John has an impressive resume working previously as the Food & Beverage Manger at Riviera Resort & Spa and the Ritz Carlton in Rancho Mirage. Beside business experience, John has also worked in the produce industry for decades and knows good quality food.
Not only is the food used in the kitchen of the highest quality but according to Chef Erick, everything at Craft is made from scratch. The menu consists of a nice mix of fresh soups and salads while some of the popular appetizers include Truffle Fries and Ahi Nachos. I had the Sugar & Spice Salmon which I think was the best tasting salmon I have ever had. You’ll also find selections like Angus Steak, sumptuous Shrimp Scampi and chicken Picatta to choose from. The signature dish that is getting a lot of early attention is the Impossible Burger. The vegan product is plant based but bleeds like real meat. Believe it or not, many people including myself have said it tastes better than a real hamburger. The Craft Rancho Mirage is the only restaurant in the Coachella Valley serving up this new burger. If you would like to get a taste of the Impossible Burger and many more restaurants in Rancho Mirage you can come out to the Rancho Mirage Food and Wine Festival Saturday February 17th from noon to 4pm at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater.
A few nights to put on your calendar are Saturday nights, they have a Prime Rib special for $30.00 which includes soup or salad. Also, on Thursday nights there is live entertainment in the lounge. The Craft Rancho Mirage is a great venue for wedding and corporate events with a ballroom that seats 350 people and has views for days. The Restaurant is now open for Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm and open for Dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5pm to 9pm.
You are invited to a first-class culinary experience and party as they celebrate the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting with the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce. This free event is Friday February 23, 2018 from 4pm to 7pm. Guests can sample menu items prepared by Chef Erick and enjoy complimentary champagne. There will be live music from Mark Gregg and Misty Howell plus lots of raffle prizes. If you have questions about the Craft Rancho Mirage or would like to RSVP you can call (760) 328-2111. Email: thecraft@thesresort.com
Written By: Craig Michaels Productions
(760) 880-3848
