Backstreet Bistro in Palm Desert serves Tuscan-inspired Italian food just off El Paseo, away from the main drag. The outdoor heated patio has views of the San Jacinto Mountains and is fully dog-friendly — dogs are welcome at any of the patio tables, and the staff regularly brings water bowls without being asked. It’s a comfortable space with enough room between tables that your dog can settle in without being stepped over by servers or other diners.

The menu covers a wide range of Italian dishes: fresh seafood, pasta, soups, salads, and grilled entrees. The kitchen works from family recipes, and the food is straightforward and well prepared rather than fussy. A full bar complements the menu with a solid wine list, craft beers, and a specialty cocktail menu that pairs well with the food. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch or a longer dinner, there’s enough depth on the menu to find something satisfying for any appetite.

For dog owners, Backstreet Bistro hits the right notes. The patio is heated for cooler desert evenings, so you’re not limited to daytime dining if you prefer eating outside with your dog. The San Jacinto Mountain views from the patio give the space an open, relaxed feel, and the location — tucked behind El Paseo’s shopping strip — means less street noise and foot traffic than the restaurants directly on the boulevard. Your dog gets a calmer environment, and you get a more pleasant dining experience because of it.

El Paseo itself is a great area to walk with your dog before or after a meal. The shopping district has wide sidewalks, galleries, boutiques, and other dog-friendly stops within easy strolling distance. Backstreet Bistro makes a natural anchor for a dog-friendly afternoon or evening in Palm Desert’s most walkable neighborhood. Reservations are recommended during peak season and on weekends.