Legacy of Elegance: Wally’s Desert Turtle – Rancho Mirage’s Timeless Dining Gem
Wally’s Desert Turtle swiftly became synonymous with the best fine dining in the Greater Palm Springs area. Here, guests indulge in a five-star experience where servers anticipate their every need, allowing them to relax and savor an evening of pure indulgence. The original classically trained French Chef, Jean-Louis Jalouneix, delighted palates with a menu that has stood the test of time. Signature dishes like the Dover Sole, mushroom soup, and the celebrated soufflés became instant Wally’s Classics, still beloved by our patrons today.
After Wally's passing in 1985, his son Michael Botello took the reins, nurturing the restaurant into a treasured hidden gem within the valley. For over forty-five years, Wally’s Desert Turtle has been honored to host a distinguished array of celebrities, world dignitaries, and esteemed guests, including Bob and Dolores Hope, Frank Sinatra, President Gerald R. and Mrs. Betty Ford, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Tom Hanks.
We are now delighted to announce that the third generation is guiding this esteemed institution, with Michael's daughter, Madalyn Botello, at the forefront of the family legacy. Madalyn continues to serve our cherished patrons while welcoming a new generation of guests to this classic Rancho Mirage dining experience, ensuring that the tradition of excellence endures.
When Wally Botello, the visionary behind the renowned fine-dining chain "The Velvet Turtle," relocated to the Coachella Valley, he set out to establish a sophisticated new restaurant in Rancho Mirage. He envisioned this as his final masterpiece, paying homage to his illustrious past while carrying his own namesake—thus, the iconic Wally’s Desert Turtle was born. During its inception, Botello enlisted the expertise of celebrated designer Steven Chase, whose work frequently graced the pages of Architectural Digest. Chase crafted an elegant dining room that seamlessly blended classic and modern elements, using a curated mix of contemporary and antique furnishings, complemented by artwork from around the globe. Much of this exquisite decor remains today, a testament to timeless design.
