Eating was the last part of our anniversary trip. It was also, in many ways, the first.
Because no matter where we go, food always finds its way into the center of the experience and if there was one thing I was going to do before heading home, it was eat.
We had just spent hours wandering through Joshua Tree National Park. Taking in the vast beauty of places like Heart Rock, Arch Rock, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. The desert has a way of slowing everything down, while letting you move at its pace instead of your own. And to be honest, that’s fine with me. But the desert also has a way of making you hungry.
Between climbing over rocks, watching our steps around scattered cactus balls, and just being out in the sun, we had built up the kind of appetite that needed something satisfying and something soon. As we made our way out of the park, Juan mentioned Joshua Tree Saloon a spot he had visited before. So we went.
The saloon has that unmistakable dive bar feel. A little worn in, a little loud, and full of personality. It reminded me of those late ‘90s neighborhood bars, the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard, and doesn’t need to. It’s comfortable and clearly loved by both locals and travelers passing through. It felt like a good place to land after a day in the desert.
Ordering was easy. I didn’t need to overthink it as I went straight for the BBQ Bacon ½ Lb. Burger ($18.99). A thick Angus patty layered with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, pickles, tomato, red onions, lettuce, and a generous drizzle of Jack Daniel’s No. 7 BBQ sauce, all on a toasted bun.
It was a handful in the best way. It was juicy, smoky, a little messy, making it exactly what I wanted after a long day outside. I added a side of crispy fries and it felt complete.
Juan went with The Saloon Original Patty Melt ($16.99). It was another ½ lb. Angus patty, but this one was topped with Swiss cheese, grilled onions, and Russian dressing, pressed between slices of toasted sourdough. Simple. Classic. Done right.
There’s something about meals like this that hit differently when you’ve spent the day exploring. Maybe it’s the hunger or maybe it’s the setting. Whatever it is, it just works. Joshua Tree Saloon isn’t trying to be anything other than what it is: a solid, welcoming place to eat after a day in the desert. And after experiencing it myself I can say that’s exactly why it’s worth a visit.
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Address: 61835 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
Phone: (760) 366-2250
Hours: Sunday through Thursday – 11:00 am to 11:00 pm and Friday & Saturday 11:00 am to 12:00 am.
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