The upcoming In-N-Out Burger in Palm Springs has encountered a delay in its final approval process, as the city's Planning Commission has requested an additional design review. The proposed location at 1801 E. Palm Canyon Drive in the Smoke Tree Village Shopping Plaza has been under review since 2024, with an initial approval granted by the commission in 2025.
During a recent meeting, commissioners and residents expressed that the updated designs, which include a lighter exterior color and enhanced landscaping, still do not adequately capture Palm Springs' distinctive mid-century modern architectural style. One commissioner reportedly described the proposed updates as putting "lipstick on a pig," according to local reporting.
Despite the setbacks, representatives for In-N-Out have stated that the design was tailored specifically for the Palm Springs site. The commission voted to continue the item, indicating that the project will undergo one more review with recommended changes before the burger chain receives final architectural approval.
City officials had previously anticipated an opening in late 2027 or early 2028. No revised timeline has been announced following this latest review postponement. The development aims to bring the popular California-based burger chain to the Coachella Valley, where residents and visitors have expressed eagerness for more dining options. Until the new location opens, the closest In-N-Out restaurants are approximately a 20-minute drive away in Rancho Mirage and Thousand Palms.