Local & Community
Beloved Palm Springs Restaurant Spencers Sold to Local Businessman Nachhattar Singh Chandi
PALM SPRINGS, California — One of the most iconic and beloved dining institutions in the desert has officially changed hands, prompting an intense wave of discussion among local residents. Spencer's Restaurant, the famed destination located at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, has been sold by the Harold Matzner Trust to prominent Coachella Valley businessman Nachhattar Singh Chandi, who is locally known as Shandy.
The connection between the legacy owner and the new proprietor stems from their shared history with the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Chandi, who owns and operates a vast local business empire encompassing more than thirty enterprises including gas stations, car washes, and fast-food franchises, took over as the festival's chairman following Matzner's retirement from the post.
Following the announcement of the acquisition, Chandi moved quickly to reassure loyal patrons that he has no plans to alter the historic establishment. He emphasized his intention to maintain Spencer's exactly as it is, preserving the atmosphere, staff, and upscale dining experience that have made the venue a staple for local residents and visiting celebrities alike for decades.
Despite those assurances, the sale has ignited spirited ideological debates across local social media platforms and online community forums. A segment of the Palm Springs community has expressed concern and vocal opposition surrounding Chandi's perceived political alignment with and support of the MAGA movement. While some patrons have voiced frustration over the new ownership, others have defended the transaction, urging the community to focus on the business's local impact and preservation of the historic site.
Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
June 6, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Coachella city council unanimously approved an anti-nepotism rule that ban an any Councilmember from appointing a family member or household member to the city’s commissions and committees. Tune in to our 11 p.m newscast as our @newsbyalondra breaks down the policy.
An anti-nepotism rule will be discussed and voted on at tonight’s Coachella City Council meeting - that would ban city council members from appointing their own family members or household members to commissions and committees. Tune in to our 8:30 p.m newscast and our socials and website as our @newsbyalondra brings us the latest details on that final vote.
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What’s your favorite NFL team?
A major cleanup is underway after powerful waves damaged 14 beachfront homes near Capistrano Beach in Orange County. Residents are concerned their homes could remain vulnerable without protective measures in place. Crews are clearing debris, while efforts to bring in protective boulders were delayed by high tide. #California #OrangeCounty #CapistranoBeach #CoastalWaves #Beachfront #WeatherNews
Two new Girl Scout cookies are coming in 2027 🍪 Meet Sparkables: a crunchy oatmeal cookie with chocolate chips and colorful sprinkles, developed with Partake in a facility designed to avoid the nine major food allergens. And for the pups: Patch Pals 🐾 Soft-baked, blueberry muffin-flavored dog cookies in four adorable designs. Both will be available online beginning in January. Which one are you most excited to try? #GirlScouts #GirlScoutCookies #NewCookies #DogTreats #FoodAllergyFriendly #CookieSeason
It’s more than just dancing — it’s fitness, confidence and community. A Coachella Valley dance studio is helping adults move their bodies, have fun and step into their power, one class at a time. And during Beyoncé’s birthday week, the energy was turned all the way up. “When in doubt, twerk it out.” See how VXN Worldwide Dance Company is getting the Valley moving — and building confidence along the way. Read more at NBCPalmSprings.com. #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #Dance #Fitness #Community NBCPalmSprings
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What are you going to be for Halloween? 🎃
Labor Day traffic is picking up in Palm Springs. If you’re heading out, our Maria Noble Valdez has what you can expect on the roads here. Be sure to stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs and nbcpalmsprings.com for more Labor Day coverage #LaborDay #LaborDayTraffic #PalmSprings #TrafficUpdate #i10
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1) Cael Woody with the dot under pressure, 2) Tatum Webster with the pass breakup, 3) Ivan Garza with the rushing TD, 4) Sean Meza with the toe tap, or 5) Jesus. Valenzuela with the strong hands #fypage #fridaynightlights #top3 #hondaofthedesert
Me On A Plate is back! We head over to @tacquila_ps to talk to chef David Arreguin about his love of spice, being the seventh of nine children, and his drive to always follow his passion. Check it out now on our website nbcpalmsprings.com