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Tennis, Tequila & Truffle Fries: Porta Via’s Epic BNP Paribas Open Takeover is Back! 

The sun-drenched courts of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden are about to serve up more than just world-class rallies and breathtaking winners—because from March 4 through March 15, 2026, Porta Via Palm Desert is making its electric return as the popup restaurant and bar right in the heart of Stadium 1 during the BNP Paribas Open.

Picture this: you’re courtside, the crowd roaring as the next big match explodes, and just steps away, the crew from Porta Via—the contemporary California bistro that’s been winning hearts in Southern California since opening its Palm Desert gem in 2022—is dishing out their signature Italian-inspired magic, custom-built for tennis fanatics. Proprietor Peter Garland and his team live by one irresistible rule: grab the freshest seasonal, organic ingredients, treat them simply and with respect, and watch the flavors light up the plate. It’s that effortless sophistication that makes every bite feel like a celebration—whether you’re grabbing a quick refuel between sets or lingering over a full feast with the pros duking it out below.

Forget ordinary stadium eats. This pop-up delivers a full-service menu that’s equal parts comfort and wow-factor. Sink your fork into miso-glazed Chilean seabass, perfectly balanced with sautéed bok choy, sticky rice, toasted sesame, and bright scallions. Or go silky with grilled Ōra King salmon atop roasted organic market vegetables and nutty brown rice. Seafood fans will go wild for the New England Lobster Roll—sweet Maine lobster piled into a toasted brioche bun with house-made potato chips—or the golden, crispy fried calamari perfect for sharing. Plant-based players aren’t left out: there’s a satisfying vegan burger, dreamy butternut squash ravioli, and the legendary Porta Via salad—organic butter lettuce, shaved sweet onion, fresh dill and chervil, creamy avocado, French feta, all kissed with champagne shallot vinaigrette.

They’re even saluting returning champions with special menu shout-outs. Dig into a classic Steak au Poivre—grass-fed filet mignon with parmigiano truffle fries and that luscious green peppercorn sauce—to honor Jack Draper’s tenacity. Or savor Syrniki, those pillowy farmer's cheese pancakes crowned with vanilla-honey mascarpone, zesty lemon, and a fresh-berry compote, in tribute to Mirra Andreeva’s dazzling game. And if you’re feeling like a champion yourself, oysters on ice, fresh sushi, and caviar service are waiting to turn your day into pure extravagance.

The drinks? Pure fire. Ten signature cocktails designed to beat the desert heat and match the energy on court. Try the La Piña Picante—Maestro Dobel tequila infused with jalapeño agave, pineapple, and lime for that addictive sweet-spicy kick. The New Paloma brings bright vibes with Dobel tequila, Owen’s Rio Red grapefruit soda, lime, and a striking black lava salt rim. Toast with the “Fritz” Spritz—Aperol, gin, grapefruit, elderflower, and prosecco fizzing like a five-set comeback—or smash the “Desert Smash” of Grey Goose Vodka, lemonade, and raspberry liqueur to keep the good times rolling.

The pop-up runs daily from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. straight through the main draw, and here’s the best part: it’s open to every ticket holder. No matter where your seat is, you can stroll into Stadium 1 and soak up that unbeatable courtside dining vibe.

Planning to linger for dinner after a marathon day of matches? Reservations open after 7 p.m. each evening—but you’ll need to swing by the restaurant in person to lock in your table for the night. No phone, no online—just show up and claim your spot.

If you’re in the desert but skipping the tournament grounds, come home to Porta Via Palm Desert at the Shops on El Paseo (73100 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA 92260). Call (760) 610-6670 or reserve easily at portaviarestaurants.com or resy.com for that same fresh, thoughtful cooking any day of the week.

From opening serve to match point, Porta Via’s BNP Paribas Open popup turns two weeks of world-class tennis into a full-on sensory grand slam—epic rallies, killer food, refreshing cocktails, and that pure desert magic. Grab your tickets, bring your appetite, and get ready to play—and eat—like a champion. We’ll see you courtside!