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Wally's Desert Turtle Reviews List

Wally's Desert Turtle

To savor unforgettable continental cuisine in the most exquisite restaurant in the desert, Wally's Desert Turtle is a must. The most highly awarded restaurant in the desert is the proud recipient of the prestigious Mobil Travel Four Star Award, AAA Four Diamond Award, and the DiRoNA Award to name a few. This magnificent restaurant was built by Wally Botello, the founder of the famed Velvet Turtle chain, and is now owned and operated by his son Michael. Entering over twinkling lights, you will be swept away by the spectacular design by Steven Chase and Randy Patton. The mirrored ceilings, Peruvian artifacts, and hand-painted murals create a warm and elegant ambiance in which to savor the most extraordinary culinary creations in the desert. Wally's serves dinner nightly. Traditional fare is served on Thanksgiving and the regular menu is offered on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.The New Year's Eve Gala Celebration with entertainment and dancing is one you will never forget.
See more Wally's Desert Turtle details
113 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
(113 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 113 reviews
5 stars
(83)
4 stars
(18)
3 stars
(6)
2 stars
(4)
1 star
(2)
Food 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Service 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Ambiance 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Noise Level
1.8 / 3
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • special occasion(80)
  • romantic(62)
  • fit for foodies(55)
  • notable wine list(34)
  • neighborhood gem(28)
  • good for groups(13)
Wally's Desert Turtle Reviews List
Review 1 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The best restaurant in southern Ca.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We had the best meal of our lives for our 27th anniversary. The owner, Michael, came by to chat and make sure we were enjoying our dinner. Everything was perfect, the service, food, and ambiance. We come here from San Diego every year for the past three years to celebrate our anniversary and I hope we can come for many more."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 2 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Big disappointment

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We've been hearing about Wally's for many many years and how it was the place in the desert heat to be honest it was a huge disappointment especially for the price The service and employees from the moment you walk in the door outside of one of the servers was on the snooty side not a good place for women to dine especially when you're celebrating your mother's 90th birthday we would much rather dine at Roy's work every meal is perfect and the service from the moment you walk in the door until you leave this extraordinary qualities is a beautiful atmosphere but not I would never returned our recommended"
Dined on 5/03/2013
0points
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Review 3 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mike

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We love this 5 sta Restaurant. Every time we go its perfect."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 4 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wally's Never Disappoints

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2006
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2006
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Wally's is the one place we go every time we come to the desert, and we have never been disappointed. We love the food, the ambiance and the attention to detail."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 5 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Reminds me of Las Vegas in

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Reminds me of Las Vegas in the sixties.
But the menu could use a little updating.
"
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2008
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 6 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very consistent food and service!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very consistent food and service!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 7 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Our dining experience was

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our dining experience was superlative as I have indicated in the ratings above. The service was attentive and excellent and the food was memorable. We had often passed by Wally's Desert Turtle on Hwy.111 but this was our first dining experience there. We'll be back."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 8 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

We felt like outsiders. Rote

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We felt like outsiders. Rote service. Would walk away before we were finished ordering. Liver was tough and couldn't get a steak knife to cut lamb. So much for signature dishes!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2007
0points
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Review 9 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The main dinning room was

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The main dinning room was booked for a private event so they seated us in the bistro. At first we were a little disappointed, but that was momentary. The service was top-notch and the food was perfectly executed. We'll be back in a heart beat."
Dined on 04/08/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 10 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

An excellent restaurant in

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"An excellent restaurant in every respect. The Dover Sole was exceptional as was the Osso Bucco. Be sure to try one of the souffles for dessert. The service was exceptional beginning to end. A most enjoyable dining experience."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 11 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I have always wanted to eat

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I have always wanted to eat at this place during at trip to Palm Springs. Great service, a beautiful setting but the food was weak and for the price a poor value. Sort of disappointed on the greeting I received when I checked in with a reservation. The folks at the front desk do not have the same level of customer service as the wait staff. Sorry, really wanted to like this place but a no go. Try some ingredients in the food!"
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2011
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Review 12 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Wallys Tired Turtle

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wallys has become so-so since we were there a couple of years ago. The food is outrageously expensive, although to their credit, they serve lots of veggies with the main dish. I got the flounder amandine, which was delicious, but at $44, over the top for pricing, and I live in Washington DC, where the cost of living is up there. The decor is also somewhat tired, but the people there seemed to enjoy it. We won't be back."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2005
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Review 13 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

this is a very special restaurant.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"this is a very special restaurant. We enjoyed every single thing about it"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 14 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This was our first time at

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was our first time at Wally's but not our last. The service, food and ambience were wonderful!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 15 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food was exquisite and beautifully

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food was exquisite and beautifully presented. Great place for a special occasion"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 16 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

we know when we want an outstanding

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"we know when we want an outstanding experiece for dinner we go to "Wallys" There we are never dissappointed."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
0points
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Review 17 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

We went to Wally's Desert

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We went to Wally's Desert Turtle at the recommendation of a local friend. The appetizers and salads were very good. The Dover sole entree was very good. The $48.00 veal chop was tough as an old boot. The filet mignon had a reduction sauce that didn't do anything to enhance the flavor of the meat. The vegetables that came with the entrees were excellent. The dessert (souffle) was excellent. Overall, I was disappointed because of the preparation and poor quality of 2 of 3 entrees."
Dined on 03/26/2013
 2013
0points
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Review 18 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Chose Wally's on friends recommenda

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Chose Wally's on friends recommendation. It was everything and more. Took Dad for his 86th. Special event. Excellent service but not pretentious. Made you feel comfortable. Wine and food were yummy. All guests cleaned their plates. Highly recommend. Value for the dollar. Highlr recommend the land and baked alaska!!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 19 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We always make a point of

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We always make a point of dining at Wally's Desert Turtle when we visit the Palm Springs area. We feel it is the top restaurant in the Valley and is a perfect place to take guests for a high-end experience. Other restaurants have excellent food and/or service but for great food, first class service and a sophisticated ambience Wally's stands alone."
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 20 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First Class

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I love the atmosphere and feeling of traditional, first class service at this restaurant. The staff were very accommodating and always there when needed. The ambiance is truly spectacular and that only rivals the food which was fabulous. We had margaritas that were also fabulous. This place is steeped in traditions, great food and is first class in my book."
Dined on 03/17/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 21 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance and great food!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"First we sat at the bar for a drink...wonderful cocktails...wonderful bartender...Romantic booths...fabulous sweetbreads...sole and the reduction sauce accompanying the rack of lamb was indescribable...attentive staff...water glass was never empty...the owner personally came by our table to see if everything was satisfactory...The ambiance was only surpassed by the delectable food! The curb appeal made us try it too!"
Dined on 03/15/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 22 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Enjoyed the salmon, although not a very big portion (plenty for a light eater). Great Caesar salad. Service and ambiance outstanding. The host was very charming."
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 23 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved, Loved Wally's

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our guests love Wally's. Tom Barta's father was a regular and so Tom & Diane Barta was thrilled to be visiting Wally's once again. They have moved out of town, so it was a wonderful surprize to take them to dinner at a place they love so much."
Dined on 03/12/2013
 2008
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
-1point
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Review 24 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A wonderful experience !!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"What a great experience! Everyone was very friendly and the food was out of this world. As for the other people that say they take too long, these are just people who haven't dined in this caliber of a resturant before. This is a dining experience, not a diner for fast food. will definitly be back."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Guaranteed... you'll love it

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This is without exception the finest restaurant in the desert. The atmosphere, food, and service are unparallelled. (Good spot to people watch also!) Mirage, Wally's more casual restaurant is also amazing. Same great chef and commitment to service. Don't waste your time or money going anywhere else."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
-1point
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Review 26 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Food was over sauced and fish

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food was over sauced and fish was overlooked. Service was surprisingly in attentive for a place that seems to have pretensions. The demographic is definitely senior citizen retirees."
Dined on 03/06/2013
 2003
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Review 27 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Bad, bad, bad

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This restaurant came highly recommended so we thought we would go there to celebrate my birthday! Wow it was a very strange experience! We kind of felt like we were out siders! There seemed to be a lot of people who are regulars! They were treated very different than we were! We felt like we were uninvited guests at a party! The band was really loud and terrible! It seemed to get worse as the night went on! We wondered if the guy singing had been drinking! It literally sounded like bad karaoke! The food was ok! Very expensive for the quality! It was the most expensive restaurant we ate at while visiting Palm Springs, but diffenterly not the best! I have no idea why anyone would recommend that place when there are tons of great places!"
Dined on 03/06/2013
 2011
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Review 28 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mirage Bistro is great.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We love eating at the Mirage Bistro room. It is a little less formal, less expensive but just as good."
Dined on 03/04/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Romantic Dining Experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A perfect, romantic restaurant for lovers. Treated well, given time to relax and talk before ordering. First-class service and food delicious and unique."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2008
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 30 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice restaurant but extremely

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Nice restaurant but extremely expensive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We told our waiter we needed to be finished within 1 1/2 hrs. We barely made it out of your restaurant on time. We had to skip our desert which was included with the meal. My point is that it took too long to get served even though we made our waiter aware of our timeline. For the amount of money we paid we did not get to finish our dinner.
The food was good, slow to serve, restaurant could not get our dinner complete within 1 1/2 hrs. We had a 6pm reservation and arrived on time, restaurant was not that busy.
"
Dined on 02/27/2013
 2010
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 31 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A Rare Gem in the Coachella Valley

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I have been going to Wally's for decades. The food, service, and ambiance are consistently outstanding in every regard. Having experienced a considerable number of the best 5-star international restaurants over the years, Wally's is certainly a world class experience in my opinion, and clearly a very rare gem in the Coachella Valley.
H.J. Wilson
Los Angeles
"
Dined on 02/25/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 32 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

great as always impeccable

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"great as always
impeccable service
"
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 33 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wally's is always a special

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wally's is always a special place to dine. For dinners, it is romantic, and for lunch it is wonderful. During season, on Friday's they have a fashion show while you enjoy your meal. Such a fantastic place to have a girl's lunch...which is exactly what we did!"
Dined on 02/22/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 34 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Bad experience

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very slow service and food similar to Chili's. The Manager took our order and did not know the menu. We are crossing this restaurant off our list. They will be going out of business if this is the norm. Don't waste your time or money."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2009
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Review 35 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

It has been some time since

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"It has been some time since we have visited Wally's, we were not disappointed. Service and food very good. A very pleasant evening."
Dined on 02/17/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 36 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A Restaurant Gem in the Desert

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The first impression upon walking into Wally's is feeling liked you have entered into a tasteful and elegant Hollywood Oscar celebrity celebration. There are romantic booths for couples and lovely tables for larger parties, pleasant background piano music sets the tone for your evening out. The service is impeccable catering to your every wish and need before you even ask. The atmosphere alone would be worth the visit to Wally's, however, once you add in the delicious food it's a definite must. Wally's offers a large choice of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Dress nicely it's a special place. Be prepared that your bill for the evening will be four star pricing, but definitely worth the experience if you can afford it."
Dined on 02/17/2013
 2005
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 37 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a place!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We always dine at Wally's when we return to Palm Desert. This time they had a "dance night" which added to our wonderful experience."
Dined on 02/13/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 38 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This was a Valentines evening

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was a Valentines evening rendezvous. We were greeted cheerfully for a 7:00p reservation and our table was ready in a matter of minutes. The wait staff was attentive and informative throughout the evening. The drinks came well prepared and the three course Prix Fixe menu had a tantalizing variety of items from which to select. While the prices are some of the steepest in the Desert, the food quality, service and ambiance lessen the pain at the end of the evening. Nice piano bar provided pleasant background throughout the evening."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 39 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fabulous food with friendly

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fabulous food with friendly professional service.A memorable evening. Definitely a return to."
Dined on 02/10/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 40 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I eat at Wallys every year

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I eat at Wallys every year and have never been disappointed.Also I don't go there that often
as I live in Europe I am always recognized and get a special greeting.
"
Dined on 02/09/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 41 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Had to be moved away from

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had to be moved away from a noisy party in the bar. They were very accommodating. The only wrinkle was not being accredited as being an open table reservation even after mentioning it when we checked in."
Dined on 02/04/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 42 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Outstanding food, service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Outstanding food, service and ambiance. Expensive but worth it for special occasions."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 43 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The staff is always curtious,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The staff is always curtious, friendly, and eager to make your dinning experience great."
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 44 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We dined at Wally's Desert

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We dined at Wally's Desert Turtle on our recent visit to the Palm Desert area. Wonderful food in a great atmosphere. Not cheap, but you get fair value for your dining dollar. Highly recommend the lamb and the strawberry endive salad. -- the dessert souffles are excellent."
Dined on 01/29/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Every dish was prepared perfectly.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Every dish was prepared perfectly. We had tickets to the McCallum that night, so we requested to be on our way by 7:30. The staff saw to that almost on the dot. It was an extra positive surprise to get a $25 off coupon with the McCallum tickets. We also oredered one dessert split 2 ways, so they prepared 2 individual desserts for us.
This was a top 10 dining experience for my wife and me in our over 40 years of restaurant meals together."
Dined on 01/24/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 46 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

best food/service in the desert

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The staff was friendly, had smiles, and was truly interested in the guest. The reservations listened to my text note, on Open Table, and gave me the exact table I requested. The wine list was outstanding, right down to the choice for dessert wines. The food presentation was perfect, and the tastes perfectly complemented the dish being served."
Dined on 01/25/2013
 2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 47 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Lived up to reputation. Excellent

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lived up to reputation. Excellent service great food and sophisticated atmosphere."
Dined on 01/25/2013
 2006
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 48 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Appetizers were excellent! Oysters

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Appetizers were excellent!
Oysters, escargot, and squash flowers were exceptional.
Entrees were disappointing, specifically, the rack of lamb was not Colorado lamb as promised. The fish was also disappointing. It was rubbery is texture and lacked flavor."
Dined on 01/18/2013
 2010
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Review 49 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

always a wonderful place for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"always a wonderful place for a special meal, or just a really good meal with diner's who behave properly"
Dined on 01/19/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for Wally's Desert Turtle
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food was very good - thought

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was very good - thought the soufflés were overrated. Presentation and service was excellent."
Dined on 01/19/2013
 2009
Special Features: special occasion
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