After a recent early-morning (7:30 AM!) portrait session in Palm Springs, Nader and I were quite famished. Since we were in the area and were in the mood for a treat, we decided to stop at Norma's, the chic little eatery at The Parker Palm Springs. The Parker is a popular location for local and destination couples interested in having their wedding or commitment ceremony take place amidst an eclectic yet elegant backdrop.



Norma's starts off their guests' meals with a complimentary shot glass of their daily smoothie. Our smoothie had strawberries, raspberries, bananas and apple juice blended together. Yum! Nader liked it so much, he ordered a full glass. It was a refreshing beverage for this summer morning.



These adorable salt and pepper shakers designed by Jonathan Adler perch upon each table. The first time I saw these, I thought they would make a charming and stylish gift for a bridal shower or housewarming.



I ordered the scrambled egg and bacon breakfast quesadilla. I will admit that I absolutely love bacon! Plus, it was served with guacamole, and that's another sure-fire favorite of mine. The portion was quite substantial. A slim, curved tortilla strip topped my dish with the grace of a swan's neck.



Nader ordered the potato pancakes, which are based on the recipe of culinary icon James Beard. I also love anything potato-related! Luckily, for me, Nader is always willing to share his dishes with me. :) The potato pancakes were topped with a crunchy tangle of potato strings and served with a tart cranberry apple sauce and a sweet carrot payasam. I've never heard of payasam; from what I found on the internet, it has many variations, but it's a type of South Asian rice pudding. The sweet carrot payasam was heaped into a cored red delicious apple.

We were quite full after our meal, and being at The Parker for breakfast was a welcome respite from our usual routine. It felt like a mini-getaway for us just being amongst the diverse visitors who are enjoying their own vacations in Palm Springs at The Parker.