Memories
Good morning,
I happened to see the “What’s Your Story” promotion and it instantly brought back a flood of memories. I am sure that nearly everyone who was ever in the Navy in San Diego will have something to say about the hotel, so I’ll add my very pleasant memories to the list.
In 1959 I enlisted in the Navy and soon found my way to San Diego (my first plane ride, ever!) and of course ended up at the Naval Training Center with a zillion of my new best friends for nine weeks of fun in the sun. Suffice to say, we were all looking forward to our very first “Liberty” in San Diego, and on that first day all of us descended upon the city in our sparkling new uniforms. Walking up Broadway was quite an experience, and in my group of six or so most of them went to the Seven Seas locker club or one of the theaters on the street.
I continued up the street and found myself in front of the hotel. Even though the doorman had a nicer uniform than I, he smiled at me and opened the door to the hotel, and to another world for me. It was magical and everywhere I looked, I found more to enjoy. I ended up at the doorway of the Grant Grill. When I looked in, I saw a dining room like no other; everything was perfect, down to the flowers and subdued lighting. It was early and very few people were in the room – the headwaiter looked at me, smiled and asked if I’d like to come in for lunch. I am sure he knew I was making about $37.00 a month, however I walked in, and was seated immediately.
When the menu was presented, I didn’t see many items that would fit my budget – other than a tuna salad. With a flourish the waiter took my order, returning shortly with the loveliest salad I’d ever seen. I ate the salad and tried to stretch the glass of water as long as possible. Just as I was about to leave, the waiter returned with a dessert and said he hoped I’d enjoy it, with his compliments. I’d never experienced that before. When I walked back out to Broadway, I looked up and said to myself, I’ll be back. And back I came – over the ensuing years many times, even when the hotel was in transition.
It was my first hotel experience, however, after being in the hotel business for nearly 40 years I’ve worked in, stayed in, and enjoyed other hotels around the world. Regardless of their respective grandeur I’ll never, ever, forget that tuna salad, the dessert and the experience.
Thanks for giving me this opportunity to reflect on a wonderful, memorable hotel experience.
All the best,
Bill Lawrence
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