Old Towne Orange
Don’t let the historic neighborhood’s name fool you: There’s a lot going on that’s new

Nostalgia with a twist describes Old Towne Orange these days. The late-19th-century buildings are protected by their National Register of Historic Places status, but what’s new in those storefronts has changed. Between the consignment malls packed with antiques and vintage goods are updated restaurants and home decor boutiques. So now you have a choice – old-fashioned treats, modern pleasures, or a little of each.

SIP THE OLD WAY
Watson Drug Indulge in a root beer float at the soda fountain in Orange County’s oldest drugstore. $; 116 E. Chapman Ave.; 714/633-1050.

SIP THE FRENCH WAY
Paris in a Cup Enjoy a French sparkling soda or a drinking chocolate in a new tea salon inspired by ’40s Parisian cafes. $$$; closed Mon-Tue; 119 S. Glassell St.; 714/538-9411.

SHOP VINTAGE
Country Roads Antiques This consignment mall feels like a series of small village shops, thanks to the pitched roof over each stall and the vintage quilts, table linens, and kitchenware. Behind the mall, Johnnye Merle’s Gardens has the same flavor, with plants displayed on the flatbed of an old Ford truck. 204 W. Chapman Ave.; 714/532-3041.

SHOP FOR NEWBIES
Two Little Monkeys Fashion-forward clothes for toddlers and children. A little one would love a T-shirt from Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Lovers line. 109 N. Glassell; 714/639-0919.

EAT RETRO
The Filling Station A 1920s gas station turned into an outdoor cafe. Go for its home-baked desserts – pumpkin pie, strawberry cheesecake, or, if you’re really lucky, brick-size chocolate éclairs. $; 201 N. Glassell; 714/289-9714.

EAT GLOBAL
Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen Quesadillas de huitlacoche (a Mexican truffle), enchiladas, and other traditional dishes inspired by the chef’s travels south of the border. $$; 141 S. Glassell; 714/633-3038.