Marranitos: A Pop Up in the Desert Offering A Universal Experience #PalmSprings

By notoriouslysinglegirl, October 7, 2023

Food is our common ground. A universal experience.

James Beard

Are you looking for an eclectic fine dining space that comes with a “universal experience?” The “Marranitos” pop-up, located in “Market Market” in Palm Springs, is all that and so much more.

The experience starts as you walk into the behemoth “Market Market,” and you see a “pink” circular bar that literally draws you in subliminally signaling your subconscious to sit and partake in the culinary journey.

The cocktail menu is impressive and my friend and I decided to try all the cocktails.

The Autumn Bliss Martini was definitely our favorite: creamy with the perfect balance of pumpkin spice, vodka, Bailey’s Irish Cream, and of course … espresso!

The Cesar salad is amazing! It was sooo good that, my foodie buddy and I devoured it before I remembered to take a picture. You’ll just have to trust me and order it! And of course the oysters were super fresh and tasty.

Personally , I’m not an empanada kinda gal but the chicken tinga empanadas won my heart. The cream and sun-dried tomato accoutrements further dazzled my taste buds with an avalanche of added “yum!”

Behind every superb pop up, there’s always an impressive story.

My foodie buddy and I loved talking to the Marranitos crew. And of course I just had to ask what was the “Marranitos” origin story?

“A ‘Marranito” is a type of Mexican ice cream sandwich that looks like a pig” Jimmy Melendez, one of the curators of Marranotos explains.

“I’ve been working in restaurants since I was 15 years old. Usually, our restaurant crew would start their day with a “caffecito” and end it with a “marranito.” It’s a way for all of us to connect.”

I was further impressed with the fact that Jimmy is now 21 years old! He totally achieved his dream of opening up a pop up. While many people will just dream of achieving this “goal,” Jimmy followed the “Nike” slogan and “just did it!” Jimmy’s story is incredibly impressive. He credits his entrepreneurial mother for inspiring him. He is the portrait of the immigrant who comes to America and achieves his dreams. I do see a “James Beard” award in Jimmy’s future!

My foodie friend and I were deeply honored to partake in this “universal “ dining experience. If you are in Palm Springs you definitely have to check out “Marranitos.”