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C H R O N O F H O R S E . C O M FA L L 2 014 129 COURTESY OF LAVENDER BISTRO Lavender Bistro Another of Vick Russell's favorite places, Lavender Bistro, is known for its fresh bread, seasonal daily specials and a com- fortable but elegant atmosphere. Chef and co-owner Jean-Pierre Debeuf also offers an extensive wine list with recom- mended food pairings. "Jean-Pierre is a great res- taurateur," said Russell. "e turnout of the food is great, and it's always good, fresh food. He knows how to do it." Debeuf, who has a stable full of Ice- landic horses at his own barn in Tryon, recommends the bouillabaisse, a fish stew, for first-time visitors to the restau- rant. 82 N. Trade St., Tryon. 828-440-1140. Lavender-Bistro.net. Giardini Trattoria Tryon-based eventer Eric Dierks often heads to nearby Columbus, N.C., for Giardini Trattoria's fresh Italian food. "I really like that place because it's all organic, and there's a good atmosphere," said Dierks. "My favorite thing on the menu is the lasagna, but there's also a really good wine selection." Giardini's proprietors Joe Laudisio and Mary Lyth are originally from Buffalo, N.Y., and they change their menus with the seasons. e estab- lishment even has its own garden where many of the vegetables, fruits and herbs served in the restaurant are grown, and patrons are wel- come to visit. e wood-fired pizzas are popular items, as are the pas- tas and raviolis of the day. 2411 NC 108E, Columbus. 828-894-0234. Giardini Gardens.com. The Orchard Inn If you're looking for something a little different than a chain hotel, e Orchard Inn in Saluda, N.C., offers a unique bed and breakfast just about 20 minutes from the horse show grounds. Co-owner Marc Lazar noted that horse show competitors frequent his establish- ment when they're in the area. "All of our amenities are very luxu- rious—the sheets, beds and towels are wonderful," said Lazar. "It's a very inti- mate and romantic location. It's conve- nient to the show grounds, but it offers very personable service at the same time." e Inn has nine rooms and five cot- tages. Rooms tend to sell out quickly in the fall season, so advanced bookings are recommended. Chef Marianne Lazar, originally from Vienna, offers dining >> Lavender Bistro COURTESY OF GIARDINI TRATTORIA Giardini Trattoria

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