Babaloo Lounge

Sort by

1. EL

   ELENA

   San Diego

   92 reviews

   vip
   3.0

   92 reviews

   Dined 2 days ago

   overall3food2service5ambience5

   Loved the music and always follow Frank DiSalvo. Would not recommend the food. Too bad because it’s a beautiful restaurant and should be filled with locals. It was our first time. It needs new management to bring in the people starting with good food and happy hour!! Then advertise it! We r from San Diego and always out at a happy hour with food & music. Good Luck!
   

   Report
2. R

   Romadiner

   Palm Springs

   70 reviews

   vip
   5.0

   70 reviews

   Dined 3 days ago

   overall5food4service5ambience5

   The Hamburger was one of the best I have had in a long time. The bun was fresh, the beef was fresh and tasty like it was freshly ground. Chicken wings were very good as was the rice bowl. Prices are reasonable and the cocktails are generous.
   

   Report
3. OT

   OpenTable Diner

   1 review

   3.0

   1 review

   Dined on May 8, 2023

   overall3food2service4ambience3

   Pretty good service. The server spoke Spanish and answered all of our questions and concerns.
   

   Report
4. YP

   YolaP

   1 review

   3.0

   1 review

   Dined on May 6, 2023

   overall3food4service2ambience3

   We sat at the bar and there were only a few people sitting there. After receiving our drinks which were mediocre, we had quite a wait to order just starters. We ordered the Yuca fries which were ok and arrived quickly. However, we waited so long we no longer wanted to eat. So we went to the next room to enjoy Off Da Cuff Band entertainment. The band was very entertaining and engaging, which was the saving grace. I then ordered the Lechon while enjoying the music which turned out to be very good. Not sure I would go back unless I'm going to see the band.
   

   Report
5. AP

   AlexanderP

   Palm Springs

   81 reviews

   vip
   3.0

   81 reviews

   Dined on May 2, 2023

   overall3food3service4ambience2

   Overall, the food was not as good as previous visits, although the churros desserts were amazing. I recommend dining in the main room rather than the outer room with the live music. The outer room is cold and sparse whereas the main dining room in the restaurant is beautifully decorated and has much more atmosphere.
   

   Report
6. U

   2aboutU

   Palm Springs

   22 reviews

   vip
   5.0

   22 reviews

   Dined on April 29, 2023

   overall5food5service5ambience5

   Just tried this as we had heard great things about the entertainment. It did not disappoint. From the joy of the husband-and-wife team at the bar piano to Friday's nights Motown vibe, it was fun with better service and food that many places in town at much, much higher prices.
   

   Report
7. T

   Tracey

   Palm Springs

   3 reviews

   vip
   2.0

   3 reviews

   Dined on April 22, 2023

   overall2food2service2ambience2

   Our appetizer took 40 minutes to be served then our entree came about 5 minutes later. The restaurant is tired. Needs a lot of interior and exterior remodeling. The music was way to loud and we were outside. But by being outside we had to endure a smoking section which ruined everything.
   

   Report
8. DK

   DavidK

   Palm Springs

   7 reviews

   5.0

   7 reviews

   Dined on April 22, 2023

   overall5food5service5ambience5

   Great menu variety !!!!!!! Will be back to try more.
   

   Report
9. NO

   NORMAR

   Phoenix

   2 reviews

   5.0

   2 reviews

   Dined on April 22, 2023

   overall5food5service5ambience5

   Service was good but at times food took awhile but when it arrived it was hot and delicious. Music was too loud at times in the lounge were we set. But overall it was a great place.
   

   Report
10. RR

    RussellR

    Los Angeles

    5 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience1

    Didn't like the lounge singer and pianist especially
    

    Report
11. D

    jillD

    Palm Springs

    9 reviews

    1.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall1food1service2ambience1

    Not good, food or music. Very disappointed
    

    Report
12. MR

    MichaelR

    Los Angeles

    29 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    29 reviews

    Dined on April 18, 2023

    overall2food3service2ambience3

    We came to see Tim Burleson play music and to dance to a few tunes. I had made reservations for 6:45 and still there were many open tables, even in the area separated from the primary dining and bar when the dance floor and music was. When our hostess seated us at the furthermost booth with a huge pillar blocking our view, we asked for one of the empty, closer booths. We were told they were reserved for people who came for the music. Huh? Why were we sitting in the music area if not to see the music?? She wouldn't accommodate us with a change so we reluctantly settled for the bad seating. The management should be able to find a better face to the restaurant, because her unwillingness to be helpful definitely influenced our outlook on the rest of our evening. Our waiter wasn't much better. An older gent, he appeared to be burned out with his job but after correcting his mistake for bringing us tap water after specifically asking for soda water he stepped up his game a bit. As far as the food, our mistake was ordering the croquetas and stuffed mushrooms, both very unsatisfyingly bland. However, the meal was almost salvaged by the Cuban sandwich and a very generous pour on a second glass of wine. The music: We went remembering the Tim Burleson of the Nest we so enjoyed before the Pandemic, with him playing and singing old danceable tunes, sometimes with locals joining in singing or playing an instrument. Perhaps it is unfair to compare memories of several years ago to today, but although the music sounded nearly the same, Tim's once pleasant voice was all over the place, rarely in tune to the music, as the years had not been kind. But to our amazement, when he sung an opera - like duet with a female vocalist, Maureen, he was a fantastic tenor! to her lovely voice. Summary: We are in no hurry to return. Whatever magic the music had for us is gone, and better food and dance opportunities can be found all over the desert, including the Nest.
    

    Report
13. T

    Thom

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 18, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience4

    Music during dinner was fun. Great but a bit slow service.
    

    Report
14. SS

    StephenS

    Palm Springs

    7 reviews

    3.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on April 17, 2023

    overall3food2service5ambience4

    Our food server was outstanding and provided helpful information about the menu. The music was very loud inside so we did choose to eat in the patio. I was expecting something more flavorful, but found the food to be rather bland. Probably will not go back.
    

    Report
15. CB

    CandieB

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    This place is amazing. Best all around experience in a long time. Variety of seating choices. Some unusual delicious and reasonably priced items on the menu. We will take friends and family who visit here. I’ve been telling everyone about it. 10 stars out of 5!
    

    Report
16. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Amazing! Great ambiance, wonderful lounge singer and people watching.
    

    Report
17. RL

    RobinL

    Seattle

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on April 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    What a wonderful place to dine. The owner came out to chat with every table.
    

    Report
18. DS

    DonS

    Palm Springs

    75 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    75 reviews

    Dined on April 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    awesome eats ... worth going and seeing it. definitely a good representation of Cubano cuisine .. and the Peruvian twists are amazing. Great take on calamari and do not miss their version of bread pudding (go for the other ice cream - not vanilla).
    

    Report
19. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    Omaha

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on April 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    I highly recommend this resultant. The food was exquisite and the cost was minimal for what we received. The service was outstanding and very informative for my whole group who had not heard of the dishes being served. There was live music and the atmosphere was magical.
    

    Report
20. MS

    MarkS

    San Francisco

    7 reviews

    4.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on April 8, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience3

    The food and service were excellent. There was live entertainment (Lounge in the name should have been a hint) that made it impossible to talk to others in our party except during the band's breaks. A very diverse menu and our only suggestion would be more complete descriptions of each item. What's printed doesn't thoroughly explain the item or what comes included along with the main item. We'd return (if seated outside where it's hopefully easier to talk} based off everyone loving the food and the attentive service.
    

    Report
21. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    Dallas

    105 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    105 reviews

    Dined on April 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4

    Sat at bar to watch Final Four basketball. Great service from Anthony and associate. Good wine choices, reasonable prices. Lamb lollipops were exquisite. Steak and shrimp saltados, stir fry, very good. Plenty to be shared by wife and I. Good music. Lounge singer early, followed by band later. Another fine Palm Desert evening.
    

    Report
22. DR

    DebbieR

    Palm Springs

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 2, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience2

    Food was not bad but not good. Escargot was overcooked and chewy and my roasted pork was just okay...nothing special. Now I know why they had reservations available last minute on a Saturday night.
    

    Report
23. J

    Jthw1914

    Los Angeles

    64 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    64 reviews

    Dined on April 1, 2023

    overall4food4service3ambience4

    Food was very good. Manager was terrific. Service was inconsistent, all good, just inconsistent.
    

    Report
24. SS

    ShirlS

    Palm Springs

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 1, 2023

    overall4food3service4ambience4

    I always get the same thing. Babaloo Philly steak sandwich. Usually delicious. Last night greasy as were the shoestrings. The music Tony Grandberry and the band were outstanding. So if u want to have a fun time. This is the place to go on Friday nights.
    

    Report
25. TJ

    TJ11

    London

    19 reviews

    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on April 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    They accommodated our group of 14 easily. Service was outstanding and the food was excellent.
    

    Report
26. DS

    DonnaS

    Portland

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 30, 2023

    overall4food3service3ambience4

    The menu under these new owners was so different from Elephant Bar, but very interesting---much different food than we were used to. The portion were large and tasty. Music was way too loud, raucous choices. Service good
    

    Report
27. DH

    DottiH

    Las Vegas

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Fantastic food, great service! Had the chicken fried rice, wow! Drinks were good too. Babaloo's did not disappoint.
    

    Report
28. S

    Sammyboy

    Seattle

    26 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    26 reviews

    Dined on March 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4

    Had a terrific lunch with personable and efficient service. Fun to experience cuban and peruvian food in the desert.
    

    Report
29. GA

    GAD1

    Los Angeles

    9 reviews

    1.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on March 19, 2023

    overall1food2service4ambience2

    Didn’t live up to its name. No Cuban music and the Cuban food was bland, should be vibrant with flavor.
    

    Babaloo LoungeResponded on March 30, 2023Thanks for the feedback GAD1, what did you have to eat? Can you describe what tasted so bland, in your opinion? Also, we do play Cuban music all day long up until the live musicians come in to play around 4pm. What time were you in? Maybe you had just missed the ambiance you were expecting. If you know of any local Cuban Bands send 'em our way, will ya! Take Care GAD1, good luck.
    

    Report
30. SB

    SusanB

    Portland

    12 reviews

    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on March 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4

    We went to lunch and had a Cuban sandwich- really excellent. Our server was funny and very helpful in navigating the menu. He also recommended the bread pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. We split it 4 ways. Perfect finish
    

    Report
31. CG

    ChelyG

    Kansas City

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 12, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5

    Fun place... especially if you like music and dancing!
    

    Report
32. YW

    YvetteW

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    If you except to hear Cuban music unfortunately you will be disappointed 😞. The band is good but No Spanish music. I believe considering it's a Latin restaurant there should be a mix of Spanish music including Congos.
    

    Report
33. M

    Megan

    Palm Springs

    10 reviews

    4.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on March 11, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience3

    We went for dinner and had great service. Our food and cocktails were good and we enjoyed ourselves. It was Friday night and there was a band in the lounge. The band was OUTSTANDING and Tony was singing with a great saxophonist! The sound level was high for a restaurant and we did have a difficult time hearing each other in our party when we spoke. After dinner we went dancing in the lounge and really had a lot of fun. Our one complaint was that a tiny lady with big hair dressed in red, who appeared to be an owner or a regular, was recording us dancing without our permission and that made us uncomfortable.
    

    Report
34. V

    Vicki

    Minneapolis

    34 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    34 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Menu is quite extensive, we sat outside. Very comfortable. There was entertainment inside. We will be back, the Peruvian dish I had was excellent! My husband the Cubans.
    

    Report
35. KK

    KoKo

    Treasure Coast

    103 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    103 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience4

    Service was good. Food was very mediocre. Most of us found it lacking in flavor.
    

    Report
36. DD

    DesertDweller

    Palm Springs

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on March 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    We enjoyed our wise-cracking waiter immensely. He suggested a couple of dishes when asked, and he was spot-on. The patio was very relaxing.
    

    Report
37. EB

    ElaineB

    Palm Springs

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 7, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4

    What a fun place, good food, music, and fun people.
    

    Report
38. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on March 6, 2023

    overall3food3service5ambience5

    The music was an unexpected delight. The food was not very impressive but our waiter was wonderful.
    

    Report
39. F

    Foodgrazer

    Portland

    19 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on March 6, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience3

    Not too busy, but the noise level was high in dining room. Rack of Lamb was delicious, but served with plain black beans and white rice. It would have been nice to have some sort of seasoning or sauce on the rice. The bar had live music and people seemed to be having fun dancing.
    

    Report
40. MR

    MarilynR

    Minneapolis

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Never been here before. Really neat spot. Good food.
    

    Report