Went to Cafe Zoolu in Laguna Beach last week. I was hungry and needed an emotional lift (financial markets got me down a bit). The best place to sit is at the bar so I sat my butt down. They serve no cocktails (beer and wine only), just great food, conversation and more. I happened to sit next to a 13-year boy, cool kid, smart, well behaved and insightful. His parents and 9-year-old brother were seated further down the bar. Struck up a conversation with the kid, Travis comes to Zoolu often with the folks. He had the Chilean sea bass, " How can you turn down their great Chilean sea bass", he asked. I had no answer, except I was craving the meatloaf and the grilled bone-in pork chop. He said the meatloaf is great, but his granddad’s is better. OK, Travis, but have you had a meatloaf sandwich with the leftovers all smothered in ketchup? Indeed he had and loves it. Me too. Michael and Toni own the place. They started in the business years ago with the "Quiet Woman" in CDM 1973. At one time they had six Quiet Woman" restaurants. Sounds kind of noisy to me. Anyway, great people and they love dogs, cats, too. They always take care of me and my dog Freckles. Couldn't decide between the two, so I ordered a half meatloaf and half pork chop entrée. No problem, Mike will cook whatever makes you happy. Travis, gave me the thumbs up, but had to go. Nice family. Zulu has great food, a friendly neighborhood vibe, sports on the flat screen and interesting eclectic customers. Zoolu is one of the few places around which has fresh Laguna Beach lobstah', too. Sorry, I'm from New England. Caught daily off the LB coastline. They are known for the swordfish, especially the "baseball cut", which is big enough for two, or even a small Mormon family. Sit at the bar if you can, the seats go quick, they have about 10 other tables, too. The servings are on the large side so a doggie bag is routine here. Mike had my doggie bag ready for me with my leftover meatloaf for my much anticipated meatloaf/ketchup lunch. As usual, they gave me a second box marked "Mr. Freckles" on it. Freckles always knows when I've just returned home from Zulu, he greets me with a little extra love, and we sleep quite contently with full tummies and dreaming about the next trip to Zoolu.