Palm Springs’ Bar Cecil revels in its maximalist ‘dandy’ interiors

Photography: Bar Cecil

Palm Springs bistro Bar Cecil is all about maximalism with clashing styles, eras and influences that pay a gentle tribute to ‘dandy’ photographer Cecil Beaton’s multifaceted career.

Located in South Palm Springs, the bar and restaurant is the brainchild of Richard Crisman and Jeff Brock, the creative duo behind Palm Springs hotels The Sparrows Lodge and Holiday House. Their latest offering celebrates all things eclectic, with layered patterns and colours joyfully rubbing shoulders with original artworks from the pair’s private art collection, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Sam Francis, Alexander Calder and Damien Hirst.

Of course, there’s a hefty dose of mid-century modern across the interiors too, nodding to the city’s architectural heyday with wood panelling, chunky leather barstools and rattan. Interiors are also imbued with a sense of whimsy and glamour inspired by Cecil Beaton – who photographed high society and fashion, setting the bar for those who followed and inspiring Crisman and Brock, who are longtime fans.

‘He was a modern-day dandy – everything he did was visually exciting,’ Crisman told Yahoo! ‘This was about creating something that feels fun and not snobby.’

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It’s the same story with the menu, which includes a burger named after the British artist and the Fifty Dollar Martini – which comes with a tiny serving of caviar and a devilled egg.

1555 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, United States