The Monterey Cookhouse's (642-9900) supremely welcoming owner-operator Linda Cantrell (above) received a much-deserved honor the other day with the inaugural John "Spud" Spadaro award, named for the late iconic owner-chef behind longtime Salinas institution Spado's.
This plaque honoring her achievement will appear on the wall from here on. Longtime industry vet Johnny Aliotti hatched the idea for the award and spoke to her warmth in front of a packed house there for a surprise ceremony at the Fremont spot."She represents everything that this award is about," he said. "You've seen it. She makes everyone feel good. Not many people do that. She knows and hugs almost everyone who comes in the door. John was the same way. He was all hospitality."
