Discovering Mojave Gold: A New Culinary Adventure in Yucca Valley

In the heart of Yucca Valley, the Mojave Gold restaurant recently opened its doors. This new establishment features a vibrant nightclub and has begun generating substantial buzz throughout the area. With its innovative concept, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

The building itself has a rich history. Over the years, it has undergone various transformations. Located right on Highway 62, it is now impossible to miss the large Mojave Gold sign, especially when illuminated at night.

The host has provided support for the meals. However, the opinions expressed in this post are honest and reflect the author's genuine experience.

A Night to Remember

There's nothing quite as thrilling as arriving at an opening night after months or even years of anticipation. When I received an invitation to the celebration in Yucca Valley on a Saturday night, I eagerly accepted. I brought a friend along for the experience.

Yucca Valley at Sunset Photo by Kathy Condon

Our Journey to Yucca Valley

Yucca Valley is just 27 miles from Palm Springs. The drive features winding mountain roads, but the highway is manageable, with two lanes in each direction. This makes it easy to navigate, even after dark.

Since my companion hadn’t yet visited the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, we left early to explore. The grounds are always fascinating to visit. This time, I noticed two new large art installations, which I look forward to checking out on my next visit.

Did you know the Retreat Center now has a café open to the public? It’s located in a building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son. The grounds also feature a labyrinth and a vast metaphysical store filled with interesting items.

In addition to being a beautiful space, it is primarily rented for retreats. It's worth noting that various accommodations are often available for individual rentals.

Arrival at Mojave Gold

We arrived on time for our 6:00 p.m. reservation at the Mojave Gold Restaurant. Greg Gordon, the Co-Founder, warmly welcomed us with a smile and led us to the reservation desk. Upon entering, we noticed tables adorned with long, white tablecloths, sparkling wine glasses, and gold-plated utensils next to each plate.

Creative Way to Present a Menu at Mojave Gold Photo by Kathy Condon

Once seated, we were presented with LP album menus. Mine showcased Barbra Streisand. We both marveled at the menu's unique presentation, which enhanced our dining experience.

Dinner at Mojave Gold Restaurant

The menu boasts the slogan “Seasonal | Elemental | High Desert Inspired.” Each dish is labeled as either VG (Vegetarian) or GF (Gluten-Free).

Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Beren Ekine-Huett, a Pacific Northwest native with experience in Michelin-star restaurants. She now brings her creativity to Mojave Gold, crafting unique dishes influenced by her passions for drumming and writing.

Additionally, Chef de Cuisine Williams Grimoldi hails from Argentina and has worked alongside Michelin chefs. As a holistic lifestyle coach, he prioritizes farm-to-table ingredients, organic meats, and fresh seafood. His dishes showcase Japanese precision, encouraging diners to savor every bite and appreciate the intricate flavor combinations.

Mojave Gold Cocktail Photo by Kathy Condon

Drinks at Mojave Gold

Mojave Gold’s craft cocktails are a highlight of the experience. One signature drink is the Mojave Gold cocktail, featuring Ranche de la Luna Mezcal, lemon, chili-honey, velvet falernum, and a touch of gold flake.

I chose Solganda’s Secret, a refreshing mix of Sazerac Rye Whiskey, lemon, Maraschino cherry, ginger beer, and a splash of Stardust. This thirst-quencher was heavenly and perfect for a warm summer evening.

Cactus Ceviche Served at Mojave Gold Restaurant Photo by Kathy Condon

Appetizer

We started with Cactus and Citrus Ceviche, featuring charred cactus, grapefruit, avocado, and smoked sea salt. While I wasn’t a fan of cactus, it's worth trying if you’re curious about this unique ingredient.

Little Gem Beet Salad on the Menu of Mojave Gold Photo by Kathy Condon

Salad Course

Next up was the Little Gems Salad, with roasted beets, citrus, goat cheese, avocado, berbere-spiced pecans, and lemon vinaigrette. We shared this dish, and both of us agreed it was flavorful and delightful, with tender beets that tantalized our taste buds.

Pork Chops on the Menu of Mojave Gold Photo by Kathy Condon

Main Course

Intrigued by the idea of plum butter on pork chops, I decided to order them. They were served with incredibly delicious mashed potatoes and perfectly cooked broccolini. Every bite was a treat.

We paired the meal with a glass of Chardonnay from D’Alfonso-Curran.

Smoked Date Sticky Toffee Pudding Photo by Kathy Condon

Dessert

As we awaited our dessert, we struck up a conversation with a couple seated nearby. They were from Yucca Valley and shared they were tired of traveling to Palm Springs for special evenings. They hoped Mojave Gold would fill that need.

When I asked if it lived up to their expectations, they beamed and replied, “Absolutely! It exceeded our expectations. We will definitely return.”

Since we were already full, we opted to share the Smoked Date Sticky Toffee Pudding, topped with fermented caramel and vanilla bean gelato. One bite, and we exchanged astonished glances. My friend exclaimed, “I’d drive up from Palm Springs just for this dessert!”

It melted in our mouths, reminiscent of chocolate lava cake, but with a flavor profile that far surpassed it. It was exceptional.

Exploring the Space

Curious about the album cover menus and the ceiling decor, we asked the staff about the creative vision behind it all. To our delight, they all mentioned it was a team effort. Everyone involved took pride in the details that made this space special.

Cooper Gillespie, Greg Gordon, Brooklyn, and Dale Fox (from Foxden Hospitality) collaborated, crafting a setting for the community to be proud of.

Cooper graciously offered us a tour of the building. We walked by the reservation desk, through a hallway adorned with a piano and kinetic art, and passed rows of filled dining tables. The restaurant also features an outdoor patio adjacent to the main dining area we enjoyed.

Night Club at the Mojave Gold Photo by Jessica Castro

Upon entering a new space, we were captivated by a wonderland filled with a disco ball reflecting lights across a blue-lit area. To the left was a large stage, and to the right, a long bar. The massive dance floor invited guests to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Live music and dancing events are frequent, with tickets required for entry. As we prepared to leave, we were escorted through a beautiful courtyard with seating surrounding a grand fire pit, flames flickering under the high desert sky.

Outside the gate, we noticed a long line. This line was for entry into the nightclub, suggesting that Mojave Gold's vibrant nightlife would be just as successful as the restaurant's opening.

Since the first opening on May 31, 2025, staying informed about their hours and live entertainment has never been easier. Simply sign up for their newsletter here.

I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to dine and explore this fantastic venue. I’m not sure I would have discovered it on my own. So, if you want to enjoy a summer evening in a cooler climate—typically about 15 degrees lower than Palm Springs—Mojave Gold is the perfect setting for dinner and dancing.

Kathy Condon is a journalist and award-winning author, specializing in luxury experiences, hidden gems, and communities thriving in the shadows of larger places.

For inquiries:

📞 760-902-3094

🌐 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

✉️ kathy@kathycondon.net