Palm Springs Anticipates Opening of First In-N-Out Location Soon

Despite encountering a minor setback, the highly anticipated debut of the first In-N-Out Burger in Palm Springs is still moving forward.

On Monday night, the Palm Springs Planning Commission temporarily withheld final approval for the new restaurant located at 1801 E. Palm Canyon Drive within the Smoke Tree Village Shopping Plaza. The commission has requested further design evaluation before allowing the famed burger chain to commence operations.

This decision followed nearly three hours of discussion, with both commissioners and community members voicing concerns that the updated design — featuring a lighter exterior and enhanced landscaping — did not yet adequately capture the mid-century modern architectural style synonymous with Palm Springs.

Representatives from In-N-Out defended the site’s tailored design. Nonetheless, the commission chose to extend the review process, requiring the project to incorporate suggested modifications before obtaining final architectural approval.

The journey for the restaurant’s approval began in 2024, with the Planning Commission granting preliminary consent in 2025. City officials had initially projected the opening to occur by late 2027 or early 2028.

During Monday’s meeting, some commissioners expressed their frustration regarding the multiple design revisions, with one describing the proposed architectural updates as putting “lipstick on a pig,” according to News Channel 3.

Despite the delay, the project remains on track to bring the popular California burger chain to the heart of the Coachella Valley. No new timeline has been announced.

The news comes as Palm Springs continues to grow in popularity, with residents and visitors eager for more dining options, including the beloved In-N-Out experience.

Until the new desert spot opens, the closest In-N-Out locations are around a 20-minute drive from Palm Springs in Rancho Mirage and Thousand Palms.

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