legendary lesbians inspired a culinary oasis

legendary lesbians inspired a culinary oasis

In the vast California desert, a new dining haven, Alice B., takes its cues from the legendary duo Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein. Known for their enchanting gatherings in Paris, the pair’s love story and their penchant for hosting memorable feasts laid the groundwork for this Palm Springs culinary retreat.

Alice B. emerges as a collective endeavor by renowned chefs and business partners, Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, under the culinary direction of executive chef Lance Velasquez. This establishment finds its home within Living Out, an innovative apartment complex catering to the 55+ LGBTQ+ community, offering a blend of culinary excellence and social purpose.

Living Out, envisioned by Loren Ostrow and Paul Alani, spans nine acres and offers a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ senior community amidst the scenic beauty of Palm Springs. “Knowing that too many LGBTQ+ seniors live in unsafe or even openly hostile environments, we wanted to address this issue that is near and dear to us,” Ostrow and Alani express their commitment to fostering a secure, inclusive community.

This endeavor not only boasts breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains but also prioritizes creating an inclusive atmosphere for the Stonewall Generation. Facilities like a fitness center, massage studio, and various social spaces enhance the living experience for those who wish to find camaraderie and support within this vibrant community.

A Culinary Masterpiece Decades in the Making

Feniger and Milliken, who have been collaborators for over four decades, bring their vast experience to Alice B., moving away from their established culinary ventures to embrace Mediterranean influences and the bounty of California. Executive Chef Lance Velasquez, celebrated for his innovative American cuisine, infuses the menu with his experiences from esteemed Northern California dining spots and a distinctive flair for baked delights, notably from Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit.

Alice B.’s menu, a tribute to local produce and seasonal flavors, features communal and individual plates designed to delight the palate. Among the offerings are cornmeal cheddar drop biscuits, grilled asparagus with romesco sauce, and a vibrant yellowfin amberjack crudo. Hearty entrees perfect for energizing adventures in the Coachella Valley include a plancha-seared pork shoulder and a prime grilled ribeye with crispy potatoes. The restaurant’s design, echoing the mid-century modern style of Palm Springs and highlighting works by local female and LGBTQ+ artists, adds to the ambiance of this culinary gem.

Feniger emphasizes the joy of creating spaces that unite people through the love of food. “Curating welcoming restaurants that bring people together over food has long been our passion,” she reflects. Alice B. is envisioned as a communal space where visitors can relish in good food and company, a testament to the enduring love between Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein. Feniger and Milliken aspire for Alice B. to become a beloved retreat, inviting guests to create lasting memories and return time after time.