My little red Allero coupe hugged the winding road leading to my crusty little hotel as Janis Joplin wailed on. I went out for dinner alone as I often do when I travel, and after getting blown off by the slacker waitress, decided to take matters into my own hands.

The restaurant at the Hotel Valencia (the swanky hotel just up the street) said they were booked when I called earlier that evening, but I hoped that maybe if I just showed up I could get in. I did, and experienced one of the most memorable meals I’ve ever had in my life. As I looked ahead at the seals playing in LaJolla Cove, and the Pacific Ocean to my left, I had lobster bisque with the meat served in the bowl and the bisque poured over it. Fancy! He was very good to me, and I wish I remembered his name to thank him. He brought me a few samples from the kitchen and then, the thickest, most juicy and tender scallops I’ve ever had – before or since! Glad I took a chance:)