Palm Springs' economy hinges on the volatility of seasonal tourism, which explains why so few new restaurants open there, and why some promising upstarts can quickly disappear. But new is fun, especially for Angelenos who travel frequently to the desert.
In the months ahead, we have major restaurant openings from Michelin chefs and famous New York restaurateurs, as well as a swell of diverse and delicious smaller restaurants joining our neighborhoods. Each week, Boston.com will highlight the restaurant openings worth knowing about across the region. Some spots will already be open, while others are set to debut in 2026. At least one featured restaurant will always be a bonus item - either a pop-up, a collaboration, or event at area restaurants.
Best New Restaurant 1. La' Shukran Middle Eastern flavors collide with French bistro dishes at Michael Rafidi's ultra-cool restaurant and rooftop. 2. Chai Pani This color-blasted newcomer recently arrived from Asheville, where its offbeat Indian street food won a James Beard Award. 3. Osteria Mozza Star Los Angeles chef Nancy Silverton has won plenty of fans with her mozzarella bar, Italian snacks, and famed desserts in the former Dean & DeLuca space.
Eater spotlighted Luncheonette for its "eclectic choices" and focus on exceptional, flavor-forward dishes. The publication highlighted standouts such as baba ganoush with roasted eggplants, coriander, fennel, tahini, Champagne vinegar, lemon, and olive oil; a roasted koginut squash pavê with Parmesan bechamel and Fresno pepper; and sandwiches that use sourdough Pullman-style bread layered with miso-marinated pork, Thai basil relish, Kewpie mayo, and mozzarella.
It's no surprise that his new corner spot on Forest Avenue is well designed, a charming blend of weathered and new. The tiled floor, tin ceiling, and one textured wall were left over; the rich mahogany bar, its four seats, and a Faema espresso machine are La Rosa's touches. On a recent afternoon, the music - MJ Lenderman, not "Ave Maria" - played at a murmur. Caponata is scooped into a little silver ice-cream bowl, the chunks of eggplant still maintaining a bit of chew.
Restaurant Week in Washington runs from August 18 to August 24, featuring special menus at various new restaurants, with dinner prices around $65 and lunch/brunch options from $25 to $35.
At The Block at Woods Hill, diners can enjoy lobster and 'nduja pierogi with corn relish, alongside cocktails made with seasonal produce. This new restaurant in the Seaport highlights local sourcing and features dry-aged meats from its sibling farm in New Hampshire.
