Mélange

Mélange Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: Lakeside dining in the desert is no mirage at Mélange restaurant and bar located at The Chateau at Lake La Quinta. Lake La Quinta is a manmade body of water hidden from view in a private gated community. The best tables really are those overlooking the lake, and on chilly nights, the fire pits are ablaze to keep grazers warm. But for those seeking shelter, Mélange has a few tables reserved for indoors.

Likes: The lakeside setting.
Dislikes: Hotel guests are given priority seating.

Food & Drinks: While the setting is very Cȏte d’Azur, the menu is modern American with an emphasis on fresh seafood as well as beef. Noteworthy items include the leafy Cobb salad tossed with all the usual suspects, the pokitini appetizer with ahi, and tender braised short ribs. Ingredients are procured from small California farms, including some local to the Coachella Valley, with sauces infused with herbs grown on the premises. Desserts are rich and decadent, with an airy chocolate soufflé dominating most tables. The restaurant offers a full bar, enjoyable wine list and selection of craft beer.