It’s true. I’m a sun-loving Southern Californian. I need to be in a particular mood for rainy days, and I prefer spending my weekends the way typical Angelenos seem to do in the movies — out and about, sporting sunglasses while walking along palm tree-lined sidewalks.

Autumn is one of those seasons that begs to be appreciated in Los Angeles. Once in a while, I remind myself that those crunchy, stomp-worthy yellow and brown leaves on the sidewalks won’t be around forever (well, not at least until next year). I try to savor the cold, windy evenings that allow me to finally break out the mittens and scarves, because as much as I value colorful neckwear as a fashion accessory, they’re completely unnecessary and foolish-looking anytime the temperature is over 65 degrees. (Mid-West transplants, I'm sorry if my thin-bloodedness offends!)

My favorite way of giving thanks to the fall season is by indulging in my favorite dessert: pumpkin pie. This month alone, I’ve used two potluck parties as an excuse to bust it out (I admit, both instances were shamefully store-bought).  As a faithful follower of the great orange squash, I’ve even tried my hand at making my own tart. Though it was edible, the flavor was forgettable and uninspiring. Finally, I decided I’d do it the right way and get a freshly-made slice at Four ‘N 20, a local restaurant known for their pie expertise.

My predecessor had written about the restaurant-slash-pie-place back in February, but their tasty, award-winning pastries deserve some additional recognition for completing Thanksgiving spreads in the homes of many.

Their coconut cream is my go-to during the summer, and so I was excited to try a slice of their pumpkin pie — it’s been on countless “Best Of” lists, including CBS Los Angeles’ last year. When I grabbed dinner at Four ‘N 20 the other night with two friends, I also pre-ordered a full pie for my family’s Thanksgiving get-together — without even trying a sample first. I’m not usually the type to make purchases without doing proper research beforehand, but I decided to trust my squash-loving instincts (I’m sure the numerous newspaper clippings on the eatery’s walls billing their pies as “award-winning” also played a role in my spontaneity).

I ordered a slice to-go so I could sample it in a more neutral environment within the confines of my apartment (but really because I forgot to order it at the table). “Cold or warm? Whipped cream or no whipped cream?” asked our friendly server.  I ordered it cold, sans whipped cream, and excitedly took it home for tasting.

I sat down on the couch, fork in hand, and opened the Styrofoam box. I started off with my usual pie-eating ritual by cutting an inch at the bottom of the slice and savoring the first bite before devouring the rest. Turns out, I took a bite of the best pumpkin pie I’ve ever eaten. Ever. The filling was perfect and slightly creamy to the taste, and the crust was, in my book, just right.

Come Thursday, I’ll consider that impulsive $11.50 pie purchase a good gourmand investment.