food
La Copine Kitchen: New California Cooking from the Mojave Desert
The Joshua Tree sun beats down on the high desert landscape, a stark contrast to the vibrant, innovative flavors currently emerging from the kitchen at La Copine. Located in Flamingo Heights, this destination restaurant has carved out a reputation for serving "New California" cuisine that feels both adventurous and deeply comforting.
Anticipation is building for a significant creation from the local food scene: the debut cookbook from the minds behind La Copine Kitchen. Scheduled for release on April 28, 2026, La Copine: New California Cooking from an Oasis in the Desert promises to be more than just a collection of recipes. Published by Abrams, the 304-page hardcover captures the unique intersection of desert life and culinary artistry, offering readers a window into the restaurant's philosophy and the community that sustains it.
The heart of La Copine is the partnership between Claire Wadsworth and Nikki Hill. The duo opened their doors in 2015, shortly after getting married, bringing with them a shared vision to create a space that feels both elevated and accessible. Their approach to cooking is defined by what they call "California soul"—a style that balances innovation with tradition, relying heavily on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Elevating the narrative of the cookbook is the collaboration with James Beard Award-nominated food writer Ben Mims. Mims, a seasoned columnist and editor for major media outlets, brings his expertise in storytelling and recipe development to the project, helping to weave the couple's personal history and the spirit of the restaurant into the pages of the book.
A Taste of the Desert
The cookbook features nearly 75 recipes, curated to bring the "drama of the desert landscape" and the eclectic local population into the home kitchen.
- Abrams Books, La Copine: New California Cooking
The menu is distinctly veggie-forward yet innovative, designed to be comforting for any time of day, whether for a quick lunch or a dinner party. Readers can expect to find the restaurant’s signature dishes translated into home-cooking instructions.
The gluten-free fried chicken is a standout, offering a crispy, satisfying alternative that proves dietary restrictions need not compromise flavor. The "Lavish Lavash" with charred eggplant offers a vibrant, earthy profile that highlights the region’s produce, while sauces, dressings, and condiments make up a significant portion of the book, providing the essential finishing touches that define the La Copine style. For those who prefer a lighter start to the day, the book includes a dedicated chapter for morning meals. Vegan beignets and crispy hash browns offer a sweet and savory morning ritual, accompanied by insights on cooking the perfect egg—a simple task made extraordinary through technique.
Rooted in the Community
The philosophy at La Copine is inextricably linked to its location. The restaurant has garnered glowing reviews from publications such as the New York Times, Eater, and Vogue, cementing its status as a beloved destination for both California locals and visiting celebrities. Beyond the accolades, the restaurant serves as a safe haven for the queer community outside of Los Angeles, fostering a sense of belonging that permeates the dining experience.
This connection to the land and its people is reflected in the ingredients used. The cookbook draws inspiration from the vibrant ecosystem of the High Desert, a connection that mirrors the sourcing strategies of the restaurant.
Local Sourcing & Markets
Farmer In the Dale Morongo is a highly-rated local farm market offering fresh, organic produce grown with local well water for exceptional flavor. This specialty market features a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, local honey, snacks, and artisan goods like sourdough bread and tortilla chips. It's a favorite stop for locals and travelers headed to Joshua Tree National Park looking for high-quality, sustainable produce and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Joshua Tree Certified Farmers' Market is a year-round, open-air market held every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM in downtown Joshua Tree, California. It offers a variety of fresh, locally sourced produce, baked goods, cheeses, and artisanal crafts, providing a vibrant community gathering spot for residents and visitors alike.
For those looking to replicate these flavors at home, the spirit of the local food scene can be accessed through resources like the Joshua Tree Farmers Market, which operates every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM in downtown Joshua Tree, offering a diverse selection of fresh produce and artisanal goods. Similarly, Farmer In the Dale Morongo provides high-quality, organic produce grown with local well water, a staple for those seeking sustainable ingredients.
Bringing the Book Home
As the publication date approaches, food enthusiasts have several avenues to secure a copy. Starting in February 2026, pre-orders will be available at select retailers. The hardcover edition is priced at $45.00, a reasonable investment for a book that promises to be as much a read as it is a cookbook. Major retailers including Barnes & Noble and Kitchen Arts & Letters will carry the book, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Book Launch Event May 6, 2026 POWERHOUSE Arena, Brooklyn, NY Join the authors to celebrate the release and experience the culinary world they have so vividly documented.
Looking Ahead
With its rich storytelling and practical, delicious recipes, La Copine: New California Cooking from an Oasis in the Desert stands poised to become a staple in kitchens across the country. It offers a bridge between the stunning landscapes of the High Desert and the comfort of the home table. Whether you are planning a trip to Flamingo Heights to experience the restaurant firsthand or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, the release of this book marks an exciting chapter in the story of modern California cuisine.
