My friends and I had a great meal at The DEZ before heading into Joshua Tree. The place is busy, understandably so, since the town is small, there’s not so many places to go, and there are a lot of park tourists passing through. However, seating was open, and it was comfortable and had a good vibe. We ordered a breakfast sandwich, lox bagel, lamb pie, quiche, and coffee. Everything was really good, but the breakfast sandwich I had was delectable. The thick-cut bacon was juicy and the eggs were perfectly cooked. The lamb pie was really tasty as well, and had a great aromatic rosemary flavor. It’s a bit pricey, but that’s standard for Joshua Tree, since so many people from LA and San Diego are passing through. The staff are friendly, on top of stuff, and easygoing. I recommend checking it out when you’re in town!
Overview
If you're cruising through Joshua Tree, CA, and looking for a place where comfort food meets good vibes, The Big Dez is a spot you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Tucked at 61675 29 Palms Hwy #3, this diner has become a beloved local haunt for those seeking hearty meals, cool drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
What sets The Big Dez apart from other diners in the area is its unique blend of casual dining and modern flair. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the menu offers something for everyone. On any given day, you’ll find locals enjoying a classic bacon cheeseburger or opting for the more adventurous specials that rotate regularly. This mix of comfort and creativity is what makes the diner feel like home-offering that sweet spot between familiar and exciting.
The interior of The Big Dez exudes a cozy, inviting charm. The retro decor combined with contemporary touches gives it a warm, nostalgic vibe while remaining fresh and modern. The ambiance is laid-back, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends, family, or even solo. One of the things that make this place feel special is the friendly staff. They’re attentive without being overbearing, always ready with a recommendation or just a casual chat.
As for the menu, it’s clear that The Big Dez puts thought into every dish. Breakfast is a standout, with options like fluffy pancakes stacked high or savory egg scrambles that set the tone for a day of adventure. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the lunch and dinner offerings won’t disappoint. The burgers, in particular, have earned rave reviews-juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right. And if you’re not in the mood for a burger, you can’t go wrong with their tasty sandwiches, wraps, and fresh salads. There’s also a selection of vegetarian-friendly dishes, which makes it a great option for various dietary preferences.
It’s not just the food that draws people to The Big Dez; it’s the experience. The diner has a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for families with kids, couples on a casual date, or even solo diners just looking to relax with a delicious meal. One thing you’ll notice right away is that no one rushes you here. It’s the kind of place where you can sit back, enjoy your food, and let the world pass by for a while. The surrounding area adds to the charm, too. Located near Joshua Tree National Park, it’s a great spot to refuel after a day of hiking or exploring the desert landscape.
One of the most memorable things about The Big Dez is how consistently it delivers. Many regulars have shared their appreciation for the diner’s reliability when it comes to both food and service. You won’t find yourself disappointed, whether you're trying their signature dishes or something new off the specials menu. In a town where tourists and locals alike pass through, having a dependable spot like this is invaluable.
For those who care about their reviews, The Big Dez has built a solid reputation online. Visitors often praise not just the food, but the overall vibe of the place. Reviews highlight the diner’s ability to provide a balance of comfort and creativity, making it a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends or family. Locals have been known to come here regularly, adding to the community feel of the spot. The diner has a loyal following, and that’s always a good sign when it comes to a dining experience.
When it comes to location, The Big Dez is also easy to find. Its location along the 29 Palms Highway is convenient for anyone heading through Joshua Tree on their way to or from the park. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the diner serves as a perfect stopping point to recharge before continuing on your journey.
In terms of pricing, The Big Dez strikes a perfect balance. You get a lot of value for the price, with generous portions that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a leisurely meal, the value is undeniable. The friendly service and tasty food make it worth every penny.
So, if you're looking for a diner that does it right, The Big Dez is the place to go. It's the kind of spot that feels like a hidden gem in the desert, offering great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a taste of local culture. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a long, leisurely meal, you can trust that The Big Dez will have you covered.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Kerbside pickup ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ Delivery ✓ On-site servicesHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessertPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toilet ✓ Assistive hearing loopOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Prepared foods ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ SeatingAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ CosyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Locals ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed ✓ Dogs allowed inside ✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
The Big Dez in Joshua Tree is a level-up breakfast spot! The coffee was fantastic, and the food did not disappoint — we had a delicious breakfast sandwich and a yummy quiche cup with a side of bacon. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Funny enough, we actually stumbled upon this place after walking out of another nearby breakfast spot that had lots of stars but not much hospitality. The staff there avoided eye contact, looked annoyed to see people coming in, and after making us wait awkwardly for 10 minutes, they told a group behind us it would be “about 15 minutes” — not likely, since there were already 5 groups ahead of them. Leaving turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because otherwise we never would have discovered The Big Dez! The vibe is welcoming, the service is friendly, and the food/coffee combo made our morning. Highly recommend checking this place out when you’re in Joshua Tree!
Super nice staff food was so delicious, not a typical breakfast person but we came back two mornings in a row. THANK YOU BIG DEZ
Vibe was very nice and relaxing. Staff was super friendly and helpful. Sandwiches were some of the best we’ve had in a long time. I liked my pastrami a lot, but the turkey bacon my wife had was next level. Cool to see Australian pastries and savory pies too…usually hard to find.
Fantastic breakfast spot with eggs cooked in olive oil and nicely brewed espresso on a La Marzocco
Just wanted a quick coffee and breakfast, so I stopped here. I ordered the English Muffin sandwich and was absolutely blown away by the size and quality. The flat white also had great flavor. This is what a cafe should be.
Great food! Fresh and filling. Pastries are flaky and sandwiches made from scratch with very fresh ingredients. Super dog friendly if you have your pup with you.
Awesome place to get a bite to eat as well as coffee or tea. Most certainly dog friendly as they have outdoor seating and a sign that says Dogs welcome. Staff are very friendly too.