It’s a one-stop shop for afternoon breakfast, headache medicine to recover from the all-nighter, and an endearing card for mom’s almost forgotten birthday. Watson’s Drugs and Soda Fountain in Orange is an eclectic combination of an old-fashioned diner, pharmacy and gift shop. Delicious American-style food, lots of history and character make it a unique treasure – but don’t take my word for it.
Restaurant manager Liliana Ochoa, remembers one special day when workers were surprised at 9 a.m. to find a group of burly security guards stalking their restaurant. No one would say a word as to why they were there, but around 11:30 p.m. Ochoa said the roads suddenly shut down and she saw the Cadillacs with window flags pull in. George W. Bush had detoured on his way to the Orange County Fair to enjoy what a friend had told him was the best malt you can get.
“That day was so much fun,” said Ochoa. “He associated and socialized with everybody.” Bush ordered a chocolate malt and didn’t leave before signing autographs and stepping behind the grill to flip a burger.
Its no wonder Bush had heard their malts are the best; Ochoa said other places don’t make them like this anymore. The malts are served in a classic tin cup with nothing but fresh ingredients. I ordered a coffee and banana malt and watched as they cut up a fresh banana, poured in a cup of Diedrich coffee and placed the tin in the malt mixer. It was creamy, with natural flavors and hearty chunks of fruit. Additional flavors include pineapple, hot fudge, peanut butter, Oreo, and caramel.
Other celeb guests include Tom Hanks and Liv Tyler, who dined here in their movie “That Thing You Do.” The diner setting was perfect for this classic movie set in 1964 featuring a Beatles-esque heartthrob band. A movie poster is framed on the restaurant wall and the film’s theme song can heard jamming from the jukebox.
It is this real, functioning jukebox and other items that give Walton’s its unique atmosphere. Antique tin signs and advertisements featuring such companies as Coca-Cola and Campbell’s embellish the interior. Silver, spinning bar stools are available at the original counter seating, where you can get up close and personal with the exceptionally friendly and accommodating staff. Ochoa has been at Walton’s 13 years and said she still absolutely loves it.
“It’s a wonderful atmosphere,” said Ochoa, who claims the customer service has been key to the business’s great success. Walton’s is the longest on-going business in Old Towne Orange. It was founded in 1899, when it was just a pharmacy and ice cream counter. In 1915 the soda fountain was added and the place began serving up burgers, steaks and salads.
They also serve breakfast all day and delicious ice cream sodas. A famous malt will set you back about $5 and the other meals sit between $6-$10.
While waiting for your meal, or after you eat, you can wander around the gift shop located near the pharmacy counter. Here they sell basic merchandise like stationary, gift cards, aprons, school supplies, and jewelry.
Everything about the place is quaint and old-fashioned. Watson’s Drugs and Soda Fountain, near the Orange Circle at 116 E. Chapman Ave., features great food, service and environment.
