Chef Jose Garces Opening El Jefe and Tinto in The Saguaro This Month

Mark these on your calendar for Coachella dining. Lauded Philadelphia-based chef Jose Garces (Amada), and winner of The Next Iron Chef in 2010, is headed West as mentioned here and here. Garces has signed on with that chic new Palm Springs hotel The Saguaro, operated by Joie de Vivre, to oversee room service, poolside eats, and manage the property's two dining attractions, El Jefe and Tinto.

Mostly known for his Spanish, small plates eateries around Philly, it's no surprise that Garces has chosen to bring one of his flagship concepts, Tinto, to Palm Springs, in addition to a new Mexican restaurant and margarita bar, El Jefe. Both are scheduled to open by the end of this month.

What to expect. El Jefe is inspired by the Wild West and will reflect such an aesthetic through motorcycle paraphernalia, Day of the Dead artwork, and reclaimed/rustic materials. An outdoor drink "rail" can be accessed through saloon-style swinging doors for specialty al fresco cocktails and light bites. Garces' menu is inspired by the street food of Mexico inclusive of Carnitas (pork tacos with smoky black beans and pineapple-habanero salsa) and Ceviche de Huachinango (red snapper ceviche with green olive, red fresno chiles and tomato-lime vinaigrette).

Switching gears, Tinto is a more upscale affair focused on Basque tapas such as Duck Montadito (duck confit, Serrano ham, black cherry and La Peral spread) and Short Rib Bocadillos (braised short ribs with bacon, asparagus and celery root aioli). Much like the Philly restaurant, expect a simple, modern space with custom wine racks, black and browns banquettes, and wood block tables. Overall exciting additions to SoCal, but will Garces come to LA next?
·East Coast-West Coast Transplants [~ELA~]