JOHN STEINBECK, Salinas, Calif.
The Steinbeck house is now a nonprofit restaurant staffed by volunteers, with proceeds going to the house's upkeep and to charity. The weekly lunch menu features dishes like zucchini-carrot soup and a chile relleno casserole. Photos and memorabilia are on display, along with a few family pieces, like a red-velvet settee and a washstand. Two blocks away is the National Steinbeck Center, a museum with exhibits that include the camper—nicknamed Rocinante—from Travels with Charley, Steinbeck's account of a cross-country trip he took with his poodle. 132 Central Ave., 831/424-2735, steinbeckhouse.com, entrées $12.