Designed by the distinguished mid-century modern architect William Cody in 1957, The Huddle at the Springs was once called “America’s most beautiful restaurant.” Built on East Palm Canyon in Palm Springs, California, the quirky property was said to be one of the most spirited examples of Googie-themed architecture – a futuristic style of architecture which featured upswept roofs, geometric shapes and the bold use of glass, steel and neon. The Huddle was described as a “symphony of soaring, angled beams built with all-out design excellence.” Restaurateur Paul Cummins was born in Cedar Rapids. Iowa. He had early experience of the hospitality industry through a series of lowly jobs that gave him valuable experience later in life. He ran a hot dog and ice-cream stand as a teen and waited on tables to earn his way through college.
He made his fortune in soybean processing before returning to the hospitality industry with the Huddle chain and other establishments like The Gay 90s and The Roaring Twenties.
This 1960s souvenir menu from the Huddle – there were seven in Southern California – is an exuberant celebration of Palm Springs’ hey-day. From its geometric shapes and quirky fonts on the front cover to its beautifully detailed interior menu, it's a great reminder of the glorious history of California's roadside coffee shops. The Huddle became a Sherman’s deli and the building was demolished in 1990.

Courtesy Private Collection.