By Last Updated on January 19, 2022
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Welcoming. That’s just one word to describe my first moments’ experience at the Alcazar in Palm Springs. As I approached the front desk, a big smile and warm greeting were followed by a description of the generous complimentary amenities. These touches made my lips turn upward, mirroring the attendant.
Fresh juices, coffee, espresso, tea, and delectable pastries were available each day in the lobby. Neatly racked Townie bikes were available for guests to explore Palm Springs or around the surrounding Uptown Design District. Put simply, they’ve thought of everything.
Stunning Courtyard, Rooms, and Views
Strolling through the communal courtyard, I spied the sleek gas fire and soothing water walls. These details had me adding other descriptors to my list as the gleaming, salt water-purified pool and jacuzzi came into view.
As I scanned the surroundings, I had to catch my breath upon seeing the mighty San Jacinto mountains mere steps from my room. I covered my mouth to squelch the squeal then opened the lock to the modern, clean, uncluttered Poolside Deluxe King Room with a soaking tub. As I walked through opening the interior French doors out to my private outdoor patio, I thought I’d died and went to Heaven.
With 34 unique rooms, the best way to describe this boutique hotel is “oasis.” With its all-white aesthetics, it’s an antidote to one’s stressful life. If you wanted, you’d never need to leave (although you only will because Palm Springs is such a fun place).
Two restaurants are on the premises — Cheeky’s, serving scratch-made breakfast and lunch, and Birba, with an inviting outdoor evening setting offering craft cocktails, handmade pasta plates, and wood-fired pizza. You wouldn’t need to travel far for delicious meals and drinks.
But, it is Palm Springs, and there’s a whole to see and do here….
History of the Alcazar in Palm Springs
The Alcazar story begins with Tara Lazar, a chef and the founder of F/10 Creative, a local group of restaurants, bars, and event and catering company who opened Cheeky’s in 2008. When the Pepper Tree Inn (adjacent to Cheeky’s) closed, she added hotelier to her title.
Lazar and her business partner, Carol Blum, owner of the legendary design firm CBM Limited saw a business opportunity. Blum transformed the Pepper Tree Inn, circa 1927, from its dark Southwestern Santa Fe style to an updated lighter version. She kept its roots in old-world Spanish architecture but made the palette entirely white. This includes the sumptuous Italian linens on the beds and the high gloss floors.
The artisan gates of intertwined Pepper Trees (commissioned for the original hotel) are adorned with verdant green glass leaves. They’re stunning accents to the décor and play off the Palm and Pepper Trees in the courtyard.
Opening of the Alcazar in Palm Springs
The Alcazar in Palm Springs opened in 2011 with Robert Hunt as General Manager. Hunt makes all his guests feel like family, with his warm personality and philosophy about hospitality. He instituted green and sustainable initiatives to the hotel’s practices. Housekeeping uses only green products. Rooms are outfitted with earth-friendly bath products, and linen service occurs every other day.
The hotel also features ADA-accessible and dog-friendly rooms. Special features in some accommodations include private patios, soaking tubs, or fireplaces, but each space has unique, original artwork from Artist Kelly Tunstall. And each room is equipped with a 40” LED TV, unlimited internet, and a mini-refrigerator.
Lazar started F/10 Creative because her group “Loved so many things that start with the letter F – food, fun, festivals, family, fashion, and friends.”
Guests can enjoy those vibes at all of F/10’s restaurants or bars, including Cheeky’s, Birba, Mr. Lyons (a modern old-school steakhouse), Seymour’s and Toucans (for cocktails), and of course, the Alcazar in Palm Springs.
For those looking to host a wedding or event at the Alcazar in Palm Springs, F/10 can cater it, and make the occasion unforgettable.
Just like our stay.
Book your stay at the Alcazar in Palm Springs
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