California’s historic property, Desert Island, has been acquired and renovated by Miguel Nelson, artist and innovative experiential developer from Marivmon Productions.

 

 

Situated in the beautiful city of Rancho Mirage, the desert grounds reemerged with a world class culinary program from Chef Jon Butler, and overhauled golfing greens.

“Desert Island is a piece of golf history, a legacy course played on by a mix of old Hollywood stars,” shares Nelson.

The expansive property now includes three dining establishments ranging from casual après-golf to fine dining, a piano and game lounge, and large event space. The vintage golf course on Desert Island is a walkable 120 manicured acres around a 25-acre lake, with ample shaded trees, and verdant grass. A destination for members throughout the past 50 years, the formerly private course is now open to the public, giving every passionate golfer the chance to experience the most serene playing conditions imaginable.

Butler has personally curated an extensive rare spirits library for the property, including the last batch of mezcal produced by Don Federico Valentin Alva Ibanez and Mount Gay Rum’s Madeira cask expressions.

 

 

One of the three exceptional dining spaces is The Penney, named after artist and active DI resident Frederick Doyle Penney. Here, Chef Butler’s menu provides an elevated experience, combining fine dining with attainable elegance. The Executive Chef created a showcase for his ingredient-driven, locally sourced menu that is constantly evolving with the seasons. The Penney features a vast rare spirits library, sunken horseshoe bar and terrace dining, equipped with views of the lake and distant mountains.

Parlour is Desert Island’s destination cocktail lounge, with a grand piano, a restored 1967 Brunswick pool table and a library of table games. It is the perfect spot for post-golf relaxation, pre-dinner drinks, or simply as a destination by itself. It features original artwork from owner Miguel Nelson and detailed murals painted by Stacy Smith, in-house artist, and designer. Parlour functions as a music lounge and game room with its own bar and cocktail menus.

Lastly, “9 ½,” Desert Island’s shady refreshment station featuring snacks and entrees from Chef Butler, as well as beer, specialty cocktails, fresh-squeezed juices, craft coffee, and more. The eatery is conveniently located adjacent to Golf Shoppe, between Holes 1, 9, 10, and 18 and is open seven days a week, sunrise to happy hour and occasionally for dinner. 9 ½ expands to the Southern Verandah, a long, shaded row of tables overlooking the lake side putting green.

 

The country club is now open to the public after five decades of being members-only. Guests will enjoy an elevated experience that combines fine dining with attainable elegance.