The Steinbeck House is where famous author John Steinbeck was born and spent his childhood. The house recently appeared on Oprah when she visited to discuss a book for her book club.

The restaurant is completely staffed by volunteers and all of the proceeds go directly to local charities or to maintaining the house.

We had a lovely experience there. The menu changes from week to week. For the price of $11.50, you can choose from two entrees, a soup or salad, and (for $4 extra) you can have your choice from two desserts. Your lunch is served with a beverage as well. Each week has a different menu and some of the menu selections for the calendar we got for the month of March 2004 were: veggie sandwich, chicken piccata, green chili quiche, royal chicken breast, ham casserole, and more. It looks as though each week has a vegetarian meal and a meal with meat.

We had a charming server. She looked as though she was a high school volunteer. She couldn't have been any older than 15 or 16. She wasn't the best server in the world, but she was sweet and friendly (keep in mind, they are all volunteers!).

Reservations are not needed, but highly recommended because the dining areas are small and the hostess was telling us they often get large travel groups that take up a lot of space.

The hours are limited -- they are open for lunch Monday through Saturday from 11:30am through 2pm, so plan accordingly.

There is also a gift shop down below called the Best Cellar. The shops sells a collection of small trinkets for the home, such as aprons, napkins, greeting cards, and such. It also sells novels by Steinbeck and other Steinbeck related items.

The restaurant is a restored Victorian home, so it looks amazing on the outside and in. It is available for private parties. It is within walking distance of the National Steinbeck Museum and only minutes away from the Salinas Amtrak Station.