In our annual Best of the Best competition, The Roost Lounge was named best happy hour in Cathedral City by our readers. We spoke with owner Jeff McDonald to learn more about the bar.
How has The Roost evolved since its opening?
We’ve gone from a 57-seat restaurant bar to a capacity of 280. It’s evolved to become a very local, community–based environment. During COVID, people felt safe coming here. They found a local space that not only provided comfort but a place to socialize.
What’s the atmosphere like at The Roost?
It is our neighborhood cheers. The environment, the energy that the customer brings, this space is something that I’ve never seen in all the 47 years of being in this industry.
What do you love the most about running The Roost?
That’s an easy one. When I look around the room and people are having conversations, they’re laughing or enjoying themselves, they honestly want to be here.
What does The Roost Foundation do?
We do anywhere from 23 to 27 fundraisers a year through the foundation, and we look for grassroots organizations that really could use the help from the foundation.
What makes The Roost stand out from other bars?
The community, the energy, and the people that come here make it really a special, unique place. And the fact that we’re willing to give back. We have adopted Rio Vista’s Elementary School. We supply the entire school with backpacks.
Are there any upcoming events?
The next one is our Christmas in July Voices for Children. Tickets will go on sale in June.
