Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/407779
92 w i n t e r 2 014 U n tac k e d citY guidE Head To Thermal's Hidden Hot Spots B y JA m i e K r Au s s h es s F or scores of riders and equine professionals, wintertime on the West Coast means packing up and heading to the desert. e hits ermal desert Circuit, just 40 min- utes south of palm springs, Calif., plays host to thousands, from short stirrup contenders to international show jump- ing stars. e circuit has expanded this year from eight weeks to nine, and the 2013 debut of the Aig $1 million grand prix only added fuel to the fire of the show's popularity. "hits is now con- sidered the destination circuit on the West Coast and beyond," says hits president and Ceo tom struzzieri. e mountainous backdrop makes for jaw-dropping natural scenery, but a remote location comes with its own challenges: horsemen and women have to dig a little deeper than usual to find amenities nearby. We asked desert Cir- cuit regulars to share their favorite spots to drink, dine, and enjoy ermal's warm desert nights. RosAmarillo's southern California is famous for mexi- can food, so it makes sense that this zesty hot spot sits at the top of our list. "rosAmarillo's is the cult favorite for mexican food," says California trainer hope glynn definitively. Just a couple short miles from the showgrounds, this little gem offers not only spicy and traditional mexican dishes, but also an abundance of creative margar- ita offerings that are sure to quench your thirst after a long day at the show.