The Tastemaker’s Joshua Tree Travel Itinerary

Whether you’ve visited Joshua Tree before or you’re gearing up for your first trip – this play-by-play will ensure you have the perfect day in the High Desert.

Since we kindly planned out meals for you – all you’ll have to do is pick from our curated list of local shops, exhibits, and activities to fill in the space between eats – “choose your own adventure” style!

OFFICIAL JOSHUA TREE GOOGLE MAP

MORNING CUP

THE DEZ FINE FOOD TAKEAWAY

OUR ORDER

For Now – Iced Oat Milk Latte

For Later – Picnic Boxed Set or Charcuterie Board

FIELD NOTES

The Dez is the ideal spot to grab a morning cup – especially before you head out to the Joshua Tree National Park – due to their full espresso menu featuring Stumptown Coffee Roasters and road-ready takeaway options designed for desert day trips.

Boo's Organic Oven — located a few doors down from Natural Sisters Cafe — offers a seasonal selection of bakery confections.

BREAKFAST

THE NATURAL SISTERS CAFE

OUR ORDER

Bomb Breakfast Sandwich

“Toasted sourdough bread, spicy roasted garlic aioli, organic spinach, tomato, cheddar cheese, and cage-free scrambled eggs. Gluten-free or vegan option available.”

Green Goddess Juice

FIELD NOTES

Located across the street from The Dez – making it a convenient post-coffee pitstop – Natural Sisters has an ultra-tasty menu of healthy yet satisfying breakfast sandwiches and fresh juices that will satiate without bogging you down before that afternoon hike.

Happy Hour at “Home”. Joshua Tree Little Jo Cabin.

LUNCH

FRONTIER CAFE

OUR ORDER

Vegan BLT

“Tempeh marinated in our homemade smokey preparation and roasted, accompanied with heirloom tomato, mesclun, and vegan mayo.”

Potato Salad

“Potatoes, red onion, pickles, fresh dill, parsley, mustard, and vegan mayo.”

Seasonal Arnold Palmer

FIELD NOTES

Frontier Cafe is the perfect spot to sit outside to enjoy a quick, counter-service lunch and people watching before or after hitting some nearby local shops for provisions and keepsakes.

GOÛTER (SNACK)

LUNA SOURDOUGH

OUR ORDER

For Now – Chocolate Croissant or Sourdough Cinnamon Roll

For Later – Sourdough Baguette or Country Loaf

FIELD NOTES

Luna Sourdough is not only a wonderful spot to grab some goûter (snacks) or petit déjeuner (breakfast) – this Parisian influenced bakery also has a selection of sandwiches crafted with their fresh breads available for lunch. May we suggest grabbing a pastry for now and a sourdough baguette or country loaf for later to pair with a pre-dinner charcuterie board.

DINNER

PIE FOR THE PEOPLE

OUR ORDER

The Vegan

“Pesto base, spinach, roasted potato, Guinness caramelized onion, tomato, artichoke, pepperoncini, whole roasted garlic, and red sauce drizzle.

Caprese Salad

“Crisp lettuce, roma tomato, fresh mozzarella, chopped basil, balsamic reduction drizzle, and red wine vinaigrette.”

Cannoli

FIELD NOTES

Pie for the People crafts spectacular specialty pizzas in the middle of the High Desert – making it a perfect recipe for an elevated night in when paired with a natty bottle from Wine & Rock Shop, which is located next door.

NIGHTCAP

Golden Rule Margarita in the High Desert.

JOSHUA TREE BOTTLE SHOP

OUR ORDER

Golden Rule Margarita

No Fine Print Cabernet Sauvignon

St. Agrestis Phony Negroni

Madre Mezcal

FIELD NOTES

After a long day of eating your way through Joshua Tree – taking your nightcap from the comfort of your home away from home is oftentimes the best option. Especially considering the High Desert boasts some of the most iconic vacation rentals that may offer panoramic views of the sprawling landscapes. We vote for picking up a bottle or some ready-to-drink canned cocktails from Joshua Tree Bottle Shop on your journey home to unwind on the porch.