04/10/12 - 0 Comments
Where to Wine, Dine and Shop at Coachella
Coachella 2011 concert goers
With 13 years under their belt, Coachella has grown to become one of the most anticipated social events of the year for music goers around the country. The musical smorgasbord, which includes performers of rock, indie, hip-hop and electronic influences, takes place in the Coachella Valley of Southern California—quite literally, in the middle of the desert. For the lucky few of you who scored tickets before they sold out this year (in under a record-breaking 3 hours), we thought we’d compile a list of spots for you to check out. Although we know you’re there for the music, we also know you’ll want to grab a bite, have a cocktail and shop in between rocking out to your favorite acts.
The festival is usually held over a span of three days (Friday through Sunday) at Empire Polo Club, but due to its immense growth in popularity, has been scheduled for two back-to-back weekends of identical lineups for the first time this year. From big-timers (Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre will be performing this year) to the “fresh meat” in the industry, Coachella covers it all with a special emphasis on promoting new talent. The excitement is building for Coachellafest, which is less than a week away! Read on and check out the best places to visit when you need to fuel up on retail therapy, food and drinks.
Where to Eat:
The Terrace — With a new beer garden expansion, you are sure to find a variety of cuisines from local restaurants including Mexican, Steakhouses and even NY style pizza. Vegetarian, vegan, raw and gluten-free options are also available. (Centrally located inside the venue)
The Cantina Restaurant — Where you can sit down and enjoy a hearty brunch, complete with delicious Bloody Marys too. Vegetarians welcome. (In the lobby of the festival)
Food Trucks — From Korean BBQ to Canadian and, of course, good old fashioned hot dogs, you’ll find all your quickie-dining needs met when food truck hopping in Indio. (Located behind the peaked tents and in both VIP areas)
Clubhouse Breakfast Buffet — You can start your day here with a huge breakfast buffet, from 7am-2pm, with tables and chairs over looking everything. (Conveniently located on the campground)
Certified Farmer’s Market — For all you health conscious folk, stock up on fresh, organic goodies to chow on every day from 7am to 2pm. (Located next to the clubhouse)
Where to Drink:
Full Bars — If you don’t want to look too far, the round bar behind the beer garden is centrally located in an air-conditioned cantina. (At the Coachella campgrounds)
Rose Garden VIP — Includes Rose Garden, Lawn Lounge Area, Lounge Bar and Bubbly Bar. All on the campgrounds, all fully stocked.
Hair of the Dog Saloon — For those of you who are willing to travel a bit outside of Indio to neighboring Palm Springs, this is a super relaxed dive-type bar that will be sure to please a crowd that wants to toss back a couple of beers after a long day of partying. (Located at 238 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs)
Bikini Bar — Known as the 24/7 party casino of Palm Springs. For those who want to go for drinks — Vegas style. (Located inside the Riviera Palm Springs at 1600 North Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs)
Toucan’s Tiki Lounge — The perfect spot if you’re looking to dance the night away to top ’40s, R&B, hip-hop, ’70s, ’80s and ’90s music. (My, that’s a wide range!) Bonus: Drag shows on Sunday nights! (Located at 2100 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs)
Where to Shop:
Vintage Coachella Merch Warehouse Sale — Where you’ll find discounted Coachella fest souvenirs from the past. Who wouldn’t want to don an original Coachella vintage rocker tee? (Located at the Silent Dance Party by the Activities Area)
Zia Record Exchange — Be sure to visit the official music retailer and Artist/Band signing tent at Coachella where you can shop thousands of new and used records and CD’s. Not to mention, get a little groupie action in with a signed t-shirt from your fave performers. (Located on the campgrounds)
Marc Joseph — You simply can’t leave neighboring Palm Springs without making a pit stop at this vintage designer clothing store (for both men and women). The showroom is open by appointment only, so be sure to make one before you head to Coachella! (Located at 1099 North Palm Canyon, Palm Springs)
