You’re walking down North Palm Canyon Drive, the sun is doing that intense Desert thing, and you’re hungry. Not "sit-down-for-two-hours-at-a-bistro" hungry, but "I-need-a-real-sandwich" hungry. Most people end up at the usual tourist traps, but if you look closer at the 111 North Palm Canyon complex, tucked away near the Marilyn Monroe statue, there’s a spot that’s basically a temple for people who actually care about what they eat. It's called On The Mark Palm Springs, and honestly, it’s much more than just a deli.
People often mistake it for a standard souvenir shop or a quick-stop bodega because of the central location. That’s a mistake. This is an LGBTQ+ owned, curated gourmet market where the owners, Ryan and Mikey, have basically hand-picked everything from the balsamic pearls to the specific crunch of the sourdough.
Why the Sandwiches Aren't Your Average Cold Cuts
Let’s talk about the roast beef sandwich. In most places, it’s a sad, gray slice of meat. Here? It’s a mountain of high-quality, nitrate-free beef piled onto Wisconsin sourdough that actually tastes like bread. If you’re gluten-free, they have bread that doesn't crumble into dust the moment you look at it—it’s one of the few spots in the desert where the GF options feel like a privilege rather than a compromise.
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The menu is concise. They aren't trying to be everything to everyone. You’ve got specific, intentional builds using artisan-crafted cheeses and small-batch spreads. It’s the kind of place where you go in for a sandwich and walk out with a $40 bottle of organic wine and a tin of smoked sardines you didn't know you needed.
Beyond the Deli Counter: The Curated Loot
If you’re staying at an Airbnb and want to look like a hero, this is where you build your charcuterie board. They don't just sell "cheese." They sell stories. You'll find:
- Artisan cheeses from Europe and local California creameries.
- Nitrate-free meats and pâtés that actually taste like real food.
- Small-batch oils, vinegars, and those weirdly addictive "adult nut butters" (shoutout to Elliott's).
- Locally sourced goodies like Tutu’s tortilla chips and Desert BBQ sauce.
It’s a treasure trove. Seriously. I’ve seen people spend thirty minutes just looking at the shelves because every item is something you can’t find at a Ralphs or Vons. They even have a "treasure chest" for kids, which is a nice touch that makes the vibe feel more like a neighborhood haunt than a sterile high-end shop.
On The Mark Palm Springs: The Logistics You Actually Need
Address: 111 N Palm Canyon Dr #155, Palm Springs, CA 92262.
It’s right in the heart of the action, which usually means parking is a nightmare. Pro tip: park in the public garage behind the Kimpton Rowan or use the street parking on Belardo Road and walk through the corridor.
They are open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Don't show up at 6:00 PM expecting a late-night snack; they run on "desert time," and once the doors close, that’s it.
The Event Scene Nobody Talks About
While the sandwiches get the Instagram love, their wine and food pairing events are where the real magic happens. These aren't stuffy, pinky-up tastings. They’re lively, often loud, and incredibly social. It’s one of the best ways to meet locals who actually live in the Coachella Valley year-round. Ryan and Mikey are often right there, pouring wine and explaining why a specific cheese works with a specific funky craft beer.
They also do catering. If you're hosting a mid-century modern house party (as one does in Palm Springs), their charcuterie boards are basically art installations. They’ve been known to deliver personally—there are literally reviews of the owners taking orders from international callers to ensure a delivery hits a local hotel on time. That level of service is rare these days.
What Most People Miss
The biggest misconception is that On The Mark is "expensive." Yeah, you’ll pay more than you would at Subway. But you’re paying for quality you can’t get elsewhere in the city. You’re paying for nitrate-free meats, organic small-batch wines, and a staff that actually knows the difference between Brie and Camembert.
One thing to watch out for: they do hit supply chain snags occasionally because they rely on small importers. If they’re out of your favorite Italian salami, just ask for a recommendation. They know their stock.
How to Do it Right
- Get the sourdough. Even if you’re "low carb" for the weekend, just do it.
- Browse the "local" shelf. Take home some Desert BBQ sauce or the locally made chocolates from Idyllwild.
- Ask for a wine pairing. They have a massive selection of craft beers and organic wines that aren't the typical supermarket brands.
- Grab a seat. There’s some cozy indoor and outdoor seating if you want to people-watch while you eat.
If you’re looking for a gift for a foodie friend back home, this is the spot. Skip the generic t-shirts and grab a bottle of small-batch olive oil or a jar of those "balsamic pearls" that pop in your mouth like boba. It’s a much better way to remember your trip.
Next Steps for Your Visit
Check their Instagram before you go to see the "sandwich of the day" or any limited-run artisanal arrivals. If you're planning a weekend trip, aim to visit on a weekday morning to avoid the lunch rush from the nearby museums and shops. Most importantly, if you're staying nearby, call ahead for your sandwich order so it's ready when you arrive—downtown Palm Springs gets busy, and quality takes time.