Wallys Desert Turtle Pascal Lallemand Wally's Desert Turtle

Wally's Desert Turtle

71-775 Hwy. 111 (Rancho Las Palmas Dr.)
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
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Cuisine: Continental
For more than 40 years, Wally's Desert Turtle has been the place to graze on classic dishes in Rancho Mirage.
Openings: Lunch Fri., Dinner Tues.-Sun.

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Wally's Desert Turtle, Rancho Mirage, CA


Wally's Desert Turtle Restaurant Review:


When Wally Botello opened Desert Turtle in 1978 it was somewhat of an homage to his original dining chain, Velvet Turtle. It immediately became the place to gather for the desert elite. More than 40 years later it still has cache. Botello’s son took over the day-to-day operations, and French-trained and longtime chef Pascal Lallemand has returned (his retirement lasted just a few years). Classic dishes, such as calves liver and Dover sole, remain mainstays. Updated entrées like ricotta gnocchi appeal to a more contemporary crowd. The wine list resonates with Wally’s longstanding and manicured clientele. The lunch menu, served on Fridays only, feels like a nod to ladies who lunch, as it’s a bit on the formal side with a fashion show and offerings such as quiche Lorraine. Starters are somewhat lighter and include smoked salmon and wild mushroom soup. The Cobb salad is a lovely mix of greens and doesn't stray much from the original Brown Derby recipe.