Johnny Costa’s Ristorante is a testament to the lifelong passion and culinary expertise of its renowned chef, Johnny Costa. This iconic restaurant showcases exceptional Italian cuisine and carries a unique charm, thanks to Chef Costa’s close friendship with the legendary Frank Sinatra.
Born into an Italian family in Naples, Italy, with a deep appreciation for food, Johnny Costa’s passion for cooking began at an early age. He moved to Hollywood in the 1960s, and Patsy D’Amore owned Villa Capri Restaurant and maitre’d Tony Riccio. Patsy was friends with Frank Sinatra. Johnny was hired as a sous chef and met Frank Sinatra.
As fate would have it, Chef Costa had the opportunity to cook for Frank Sinatra one fateful evening. This encounter marked the start of a remarkable friendship and a bond that would shape the legacy of Johnny Costa’s Ristorante.
Johnny moved to the desert in the 1970s and worked with Tony Riccio at Club Trinidad. During that time, Steve McQueen, Bob Hope, and the Rat Pack frequented the club. He became Frank Sinatra’s personal chef and later opened Johnny Costa’s.
Sinatra frequented the restaurant, reveling in the flavorsome delights prepared by his friend. Their friendship grew beyond the context of the restaurant, with many memorable moments shared over a table laden with delectable dishes and good company.
Begin with a sharable appetizer, the antipasto for two. The menu includes a range of specialty pasta with seafood, sausages, and meats. Steak options include New York, steak bordelaise, and the popular steak Sinatra. There is also a nice selection of chicken and specialty seafood like the cioppino with clams, mussels, scallops, prawns, and fish of the day.
Dessert includes tiramisu, crème brulee, cheesecake, cannoli, and apple crumble. There is also an excellent selection of ice cream and sorbets.
Open Tue – Sat at 5 PM
Closed Sun & Mon
Reservations
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Discover the Magic of Johnny Costa's Ristorante - Visit Palm Springs
