Restaurant bar
Unclaimed profileBar Cecil
Palm Springs, CA · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Bar Cecil's cocktail program is the main event, with a menu of creative, well-priced drinks featuring house-made syrups, shrubs, and foams. The Fifty Dollar Martini, served with caviar and a deviled egg, is a theatrical splurge that guests praise. A deep spirits list and a wine selection spanning Old and New World support the bar's ambitions, though beer and non-alcoholic options are more modest.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Cecil Old Fashioned for a classic done right, or the Burma Shave for a tropical twist. The Fifty Dollar Martini is a must-try for its theatrical presentation and caviar garnish, though it comes at a premium.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts will appreciate the creative, well-crafted drinks and the opportunity to sample rare spirits. Those looking for a memorable splurge will enjoy the Fifty Dollar Martini, while wine lovers can explore a diverse list.
- When should I go?
- Evening visits are ideal for enjoying the full cocktail and spirits menu. The bar seating is popular, so arriving early or being prepared to wait may be necessary.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $20 to $27, with the Fifty Dollar Martini at $50. Wines by the glass start at $18, and spirits pours range from $15 to $100.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Fifty Dollar Martini, a theatrical presentation with caviar and a deviled egg, is a standout. The cocktail menu's use of house-made syrups, shrubs, and foams, along with a well-curated spirits list featuring rare tequilas and mezcals, sets the bar apart.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Creative cocktails with house-made syrups, shrubs, and foams. The Fifty Dollar Martini is a signature theatrical offering, and guests consistently praise the quality.
Menu strengths
- — House-made syrups, shrubs, and foams add depth to the cocktails.
- — The Fifty Dollar Martini is a memorable, theatrical pour with caviar and deviled egg.
Standout selections
- — Cecil Old Fashioned - Maker's Mark 46, house old fashioned syrup, orange oil
- — Garden at Giverny - Las Californias Nativo Gin, Lo-Fi Amaro, rosemary, salted grapefruit foam
- — The Fifty Dollar Martini - Jean-Charles Boisset Vodka, Alessio Dry Vermouth, pickled onion, deviled egg with caviar
Pricing: $20-$27 for most cocktails; $50 for the Fifty Dollar Martini
Wine
Diverse wine list covering white, red, rosé, orange, and sparkling, with both Old World and New World options. Includes premium and rare selections like Dom Pérignon and Maison Leroy.
Menu strengths
- — Wide range of styles and regions.; Offers by-the-glass and bottle options.
Standout selections
- — Domaine Buisson Battault, Aligote 2020; Dominique Cornin, Chardonnay 2023
Pricing: By the glass $18-$35; bottles $18-$450; corkage $45
Beer
Limited bottled beer selection with a mix of European classics and American craft, including a non-alcoholic option. Lacks depth and pricing transparency.
Pricing: Prices not listed
Nonalcoholic
Thoughtful non-alcoholic program with mocktails, non-alcoholic beer, and specialty teas. Offers variety beyond standard sodas.
Menu strengths
- — Multiple mocktail options such as Blood Orange Spritz and Lychee-Colada.
Standout selections
- — Blood Orange Spritz; Kiwi & Elderflower Collins
Pricing: Prices not listed
Spirits
Extensive spirits selection across bourbon, rye, single malt, rum, tequila, mezcal, amaro, and cognac, with a focus on tequila and mezcal expressions.
Menu strengths
- — Includes rare and premium pours like Macallan 12yr and Del Maguey Pechuga.
Standout selections
- — WhistlePig 10yr Rye; Fortaleza Blanco Tequila
Pricing: $15-$100 per pour
How it sits with the food
The cocktail menu's citrus and herbal elements can pair with light appetizers, while the wine list's range offers options for richer dishes. The Fifty Dollar Martini with caviar is a natural fit for the bar's upscale snacks.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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