Johnny Costa's - Classic Italian Eatery

As much about the food and wine as it is about the people.

John Jr Costa and Sarah Vertucci at Johnny Costa's | Photo: Nathan Cox Studios

PALM SPRINGS, CA – The magic continues at Johnny Costa's, an upscale classic Italian eatery that has been serving desert celebrities since the 1970s. It started in 1976 by Johnny Costa - whose friendship with Frank Sinatra certainly gave the place a boost in popularity. Nowadays you're likely to see Hollywood Big Notes like Danny Glover, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lucie Arnaz with husband Larry Luckinbill.

John Jr Costa at Johnny Costa's | Photo: Nathan Cox Studios

The tradition is carried on today as Johnny's sons, Chef Vince Costa and waiter-extraordinaire John Jr, work with cousin Sal Illiano (General Manager), and dozens of other nephews, cousins, brothers, and old family friends to create this unique Palm Springs dining experience. This multi-generational Italian mainstay is as much about the food and wine as it is about the people.

Their delicious menu features fresh pasta, delicious fish dishes, and the most classic Caesar Salad that is up to its croutons in anchovies and Parmesan cheese. The Risotto di Mari, the Linguini & Clam Sauce, and the Steak Sinatra are just some of our favorite dishes. We also recommend the Housemade Cannoli for dessert!

Photo: Johnny Costa's

And don't forget to pair your meal with a cocktail by Sarah, the genius mixologist behind the flow of spirits.

Sarah Vertucci at Johnny Costa's | Photo: Nathan Cox Studios

The restaurant usually books well in advance by returning regulars including familiar Palm Springs hospitality gurus like Afta Dada and Acme's own Brand Specialist John-Patrick. Other frequent diners include Celebrity Realtors Janice Kaminsky (Berkshire Hathaway), Keith Markovitz (TTK Presents), Patrick Jordan (Bennion Deville), and Lució Bernal (Caldwell Banker), as well as Palm Springs style gurus, Erika Flannery and Laurie Weitz.

HOURS:
Monday - Thursday: 5pm - 9:30pm
Friday & Saturday: 5pm - 10:30pm
Sunday: Closed

ADDRESS:
440 S Palm Canyon Dr
Palm Springs, CA 92262

ABOUT THE WRITER:  Modern Mary is a traveling gadabout who adores everything Palm Springs – from the architecture and design to the art, fashion and lifestyle.  A social butterfly in the most modern sense – Mary enjoys swanky cocktail parties, gallery openings, music festivals, shopping and anything pink or yellow. She is a frequent contributor to the Acme Blog –  keeping our readers up to speed on who is staying at our fab fab vacation rental homes and what’s going on in Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities of the Coachella Valley.  Modern Mary loves big floppy hats, Jackie O sunglasses and prefers sensible shoes over back-breaking high heels.

ABOUT ACME HOUSE COMPANY:  Acme manages Luxury Vacation Rental Homes & Condos in Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities, catering to those looking to travel to the world-renowned destination for the season, week-long stays and extended weekends. Fabulous pool homes for when you and your peeps want some together time. Visit Acme’s Website to explore more Palm Springs Vacation Rental Homes.

Read the Condé Nast Traveler article that included Acme House Company on their list of Top 10 Vacation Rental Managers to Trust Worldwide.  Palm Springs Life Magazine’s Reader Survey named Acme House Company the Best of the Best in Vacation Home Rentals. We manage our Palm Springs Vacation Home Rentals like 5-Star Resorts. Just like home but way better.

Published on Wednesday, February 5, 2020