John Steinbeck in Monterey by Ewingjr98
Born just down the road in Salinas, California, Pulitzer Prize-winning author John Steinbeck spent much of his time in and around Monterey. His novels Cannery Row, its sequel Sweet Thursday, and Tortilla Flat took place almost entirely in the city. In total, he wrote 11 books set in California, and these have become known as his "California Novels."Within Monterey you can visit sites that Steinbeck wrote about and areas where Steinbeck actually lived. Most obvious is Cannery Row, the setting for the novel of the same name. Scenes from Tortilla Flat take place in the old Monterey jail next to Colton Hall. He wrote The Pearl at the Monterey County Trust and Savings building while living at the Lara Soto Adobe on nearby Pierce Street. Steinbeck actually set sail for the Sea of Cortez from Fisherman's Wharf.
Along Cannery Row, there are numerous locations from the novel Cannery Row. Doc Ricketts' Lab is only open to the public at certain times each year, but the Wing Chong Market is still in operation and owned by the original Chinese family.
A bar in Old Monterey called Doc Rickett's Lab (yes, his last name is spelled slightly different) has some of the best nightlife in town!
