Trattoria Mezzomondo — Restaurant in Palm Desert

I have written a lot of reviews. Not many that are 5-Star, and not many that will go into the detail this one will. Mezzomondo is a gem, it is the single best Italian restaurant in the desert. This is a place you simply cannot miss if you are interested in a unique, delightful and memorable meal in the Coachella Valley.

It is not your standard red sauce Italian. Featuring a Northern Italy themed menu they are much more interested in delighting you than checking off all the possible combinations of pasta and meats. It is a small facility, maybe 15 tables, run by a husband and wife team. Be sure to call ahead for reservations, and do it early. NoOpen Table, you need to call and leave a message. Lupa will call you back if they can accomodate you. They can not accomodate more than 6 guests at a table.

The wait staff has been there for the 4-years we have been going, which speaks well of the owners. The wine list is limited but good. The menu has a number of favorites, but the highlight is very often the specials. Their seafood specials are always a good choice.

My better half enjoys the freshly made pasta in the pappardelle pasta with a mushroom sauce.. I have to tell you the first time I tried the pasta e fagioli (a soup) I almost cried it was so flavorful. The Lasagna is unique, and deeply flavorful.

Our favorite special was a dish of scallops presented raw and with a slightly spicy sauce. Like most things there, amazing and just the right size to satisfy without over weighing. The theory of Luba and Elio is to feed you well. And they do.

The desserts vary, but if the lemon bar is available, get it. Any pasta will delight you, it is hand made.

They are located in a small shopping strip center on highway 111 in Palm Desert. They are literally next to a 7-11 and you may drive past them the first time you go. Turn around and go back. This is a place not to be missed. This is food as good as you will...

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Tonight I ordered off the special menu. The salmon dish reforms the concept of simplicity and transforms it into sheer sophistication. The orange accented the salmon in a way that was both soothing, delicate and awakening. Each dish is prepared with the intention to allude contemplation. There is nothing on this menu that is accidental or generic. The dish grows and evolves on your palate. The subtle favors take you on a journey through the mind of the culinary artist. Everything is crafted to elucidate emotion and experience.

The owner is undeniably knowledgeable. She is able to explain in detail everything about the plate that she is about to serve you. She helps you make a decision based on what mood you happened to be in. Not sure what you want? No worries! You will get a beautiful description of everything and anything that sparks your interest. The best part? When I complimented the chief, the owner told me thank you because it “inspires him to take artistic risks.”

The food is obviously amazing, but Carlos is always the best part of my experience. Every time I come in he remembers me, and makes me feel like I’m at home. He helps me order based on my preferences from my previous visit: it’s worth noting I don’t come here that often. Maybe every 2-5 months! So the fact he remembers me is a big deal. And he always, always, always gives me COLD champagne.I just hate going to a restaurant and getting alcohol that isn’t perfectly chilled, I pay attention to the details, and when I randomly looked over to see Carlos pour my champagne, he paused because the glass wasn’t clean enough, so he grabbed a new one. I live for attention to detail. And I absolutely love my darling Carlos! This place is a culinary experience— it’s more than just a restaurant. NOT going here, would be a disservice...

This family owned Italian restaurant is a real find. We have visited each time we have attended the BNP Paribas Indian Wells tennis tournament. Getting in can be difficult so you need to book although they have rarely turned us away.

Its owners are Luba and Eilio Cavallari. Luba is Russian from Moscow and he is Greek. They are supported by Carlo.

The restaurant has only been open four years as the couple moved away from LA. Luba does front of the house and Eilio works the magic in the kitchen.

Luba is very warm and friendly. She is enthusiastic and a natural salesperson. She might appear a little over the top but frankly if anything she undersells how good her husband’s cooking is. Both Luba and Carlo immediately remembered us from a year previously and Carlo even remembered where we had sat. We got some free Prosecco and a glass of wine. You remember these acts of kindness.

We spoke to Eilio for the first time on this occasion. A real gentleman as well as wonderful chef.

We have now eaten their six times over three years and never left a scrap of food. They hit new heights this year with their Farfallae pasta with sausage and fennel. The portions are not large (which suits us Europeans) but the taste is exquisite. The home made gelato cannot be missed and other highlights include a cheese mushroom polenta starter and any of the chicken scaloppine main dishes.

We have eaten at numerous Michelin restaurants in London. This beats the lot in terms of taste and customer service.

The very best in...