Bar Issi
Bar Issi at Thompson Palm Springs
Bar Issi is a breezy yet elevated coastal Italian restaurant tucked inside The Shops at the Thompson Hotel Palm Springs, by Hyatt—a chic new destination in the heart of downtown. Designed to transport guests to the sun-kissed shores of the Italian Riviera, Bar Issi is rooted in the spirit of carefree beach holidays abroad, where every meal is an occasion and every moment feels like an escape. Here, the concept of perennial summer comes alive, blending the relaxed glamour of European seaside towns with the vibrant energy and natural bounty of Southern California.
The menu at Bar Issi is a love letter to Italian culinary traditions, reimagined through the lens of seasonal California ingredients. Each dish is crafted to highlight its ingredients at their peak—resulting in flavors that are bright, balanced, and deeply satisfying. Guests can indulge in house-made pastas, seafood, raw bar or Bar Issi’s wood-fired pizzas which are a centerpiece of the experience, boasting perfectly blistered crusts and delicious toppings.
The 180-seat restaurant offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor dining, with airy interiors and shaded al fresco spaces that make the most of Palm Springs’ endless sunshine. Natural textures, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired color palettes, and thoughtful design details create an atmosphere that feels both elevated and relaxed—perfect for everything from an intimate date night to a lively group celebration.
Bar Issi is more than just a dinner destination—it’s a daily escape. Guests can enjoy Happy Hour Monday through Friday, where spritzes, wines by the glass, and signature small plates set the tone for a leisurely afternoon or pre-dinner gathering. On weekends, Bar Issi transforms into a brunch haven, offering a menu that marries Italian classics with brunch favorites.
Whether you’re a Palm Springs local looking for your new go-to spot or a traveler seeking a slice of coastal Italian charm in the desert, Bar Issi invites you to linger, sip, and savor. The restaurant embodies the idea that dining should be more than a meal—it should be an experience that awakens the senses, inspires connection, and leaves you with the feeling that, for a moment, you’ve been whisked away to another place entirely.
At Bar Issi, every detail—from the carefully curated wine list to the warm, attentive service—works in harmony to create an effortlessly chic retreat. Here, the pace slows, the food delights, and the spirit of summer is always in season.
Experience the Bold Flavors of Bar Issi
Brought to life by acclaimed restaurateurs Marissa and Matt Hermer—the visionary duo behind Olivetta and Chez Mia—Bar Issi is the newest sensation at the Thompson Palm Springs. Inspired by the lavish visuals of The White Lotus Season 2 and the flamboyant charm of San Luis Obispo’s Madonna Inn, this bar blends maximalist Italian style with contemporary desert elegance.
Designed by Tom Parker of Fettle, the interiors are a visual feast: deep reds, vibrant sea blues, and bold patterns create an ambiance that’s as unforgettable as the flavors. Whether for a lively night out or a relaxed evening cocktail, Bar Issi sets the scene for a one-of-a-kind Palm Springs experience.
Curated Cocktails and Exquisite Spirits
Bar Issi’s cocktail program is a showcase of creativity and precision. Each drink is crafted by a team of expert mixologists, drawing inspiration from the local desert landscape and global ingredients.
Signature favorites include:
- Blueberry Cobbler with Sherry
- Melon Daisy with Tequila
- Del Oro with Mezcal
Complement your drink with selections from our curated wine list and an array of small-batch spirits—ideal for connoisseurs and casual sippers alike.
Elevated Bites to Match Every Pour
Dining at Bar Issi is as much a treat as the drinks. The elevated small plates menu features an artful range of dishes designed to pair effortlessly with your cocktail. Enjoy refined starters such as:
- Oysters on the Half Shell
- Caviar
- Burrata Salad
Craving something heartier? Dive into:
- Wood-Oven Pizzas
- Handcrafted Pastas
- Fresh Seafood
- Expertly Grilled Steaks
Every dish is thoughtfully composed, making Bar Issi the ultimate spot for exceptional food, inventive cocktails, and stylish ambiance in Palm Springs.
Join us at Bar Issi—Palm Springs’ newest hotspot for elevated indulgence.
Reservations recommended.
