Our final destination was the search for dinner. But not just any dinner. We sought an artichoke centered meal, and that led us to Castroville, CA. The sun was setting as we drove down the Pacific Coast Highway.

It wasn’t long before we reached Castroville, and the town welcomed us warmly.

Odie had read that Castroville was home to the world’s largest (fake) artichoke. As we moseyed into town, we hoped we wouldn’t miss it. Then the Good Lord gave us a sign.

I parked the car, and we rejoiced. Some of us more than others.

These people are really crazy about artichokes. Where else will you find a mural dedicated to such an unusual plant? Nowhere.

So it turned out that that giant artichoke is attached to a restaurant called “The Giant Artichoke” so that’s where we ate dinner. Unfortunately, and mysteriously, we didn’t find their artichoke focused cuisine to be that wonderful. Nevertheless, it was a fun day of exploring America. I can’t wait till we make our northward adventure.