DRAFT Magazine

No longer is Palm Springs — that mid-century modern hotspot on the road to Los Angeles — strictly for Hollywood retirees: On a recent visit, we discovered Belgian beer haven Pomme Frite enticing beer fans. Posted along the city’s iconic Palm Canyon Drive, the charming bistro is fronted by a cozy patio perfect for people-watching; inside, French music provides the soundtrack, while jolly owner/host Jean-Claude Constant keeps watch over the crowd. A walnut-crusted, baked French brie with cranberry compote is perfect for starters; or, go straight to mussels prepared nine ways (served with pommes frites, of course). The rest of the menu is a trip through the Old World, with offerings including Belgian meatballs, fisherman’s stew, and a parade of savory lamb and chicken dishes — perfect complements to an outstanding beer list. A sampling of Belgium’s best with brief tasting notes, the menu showcases favorites (St. Bernardus Tripel and Maredsous), rare lighter brews (Grimbergen Blond and Brugse Zot), dark finds (Grimbergen Double, Troubadour Obscura, and Gulden Draak), and Trappist selections such as Orval, Chimay Grand Reserve, and Westmalle Double.