Kaiser Restaurant Group To Operate Jackalope Ranch In Indio

Don Callender's Masterpiece in Good Hands


(Indio, CA) - Don Callender, founder and former owner of Marie Callender's, opened his now-famous Babe's Bar B-Que & Brewery in Rancho Mirage in 2002. His latest creation, Jackalope Ranch in West Indio was almost complete when Don received a head injury a few months ago and had to shelve his plans indefinitely. Lee Morcus, renowned restaurateur and family friend, has negotiated a lease on the property that will enable the magnificent property to come to life.

"We're going to fulfill Don's dream," said Lee Morcus in a recent interview. "The food will be progressive cutting edge Southwestern, Barbeque and Steaks. We're going to offer special food and wine events along with local music and entertainment. We want the community to call it home."

The property consists of a spacious, finely-crafted 21,000 square foot bar and restaurant building in the center of a lush six-and-a-half-acre property that has been designed and beautifully landscaped for events from weddings to hoe-downs. The opening is scheduled for December 1.

In folklore, the legendary jackalope is a cross between a jackrabbit and an antelope, and looks like a jackrabbit with antlers. Although in some areas of the U.S it is said that jackalope tastes similar to lobster, no jackalope will be served at the restaurant.

The award-winning Kaiser Restaurant Group, headquartered in Palm Desert, currently consists of Kaiser Grille, The Chop House, and Top of the Chop in Palm Springs, The Chop House in Palm Desert, The Hog's Breath Inns in La Quinta and Carmel.
Jackalope Ranch is located at 80-400 Highway 111 in Indio. For inquiries and reservations, call 760.779.8646. For more information visit restaurantsofpalmsprings.com.###