Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WORTH A TRIP
LITTLE SAIGON
Vietnamese immigrants began arriving in Orange County after the end of the Vietnam
War in the early 1970s, carving out their own vibrant commercial district (largely of strip
malls) about 7 miles from Disneyland, south of Hwy 22 (Garden Grove Fwy) and east of
the I-405 (San Diego Fwy).
Start at
Asian Garden Mall
(9200 Bolsa Ave; ), a behemoth packed with scores of food
shops, boutiques, herbalists, silver jewelers and anime-inspired clothing and goods. New-
Suite 305; sandwiches from $4; 8am-7pm; ) or just west of the mall at
Ba Le
(9152 Bolsa
Ave; sandwiches from $3; 6am-6pm Mon-Sat, 7am-6pm Sun), both fast-growing chains
serving budget-friendly Vietnamese sandwiches on French baguette rolls. The traditional
toppings on these belly-fillers provide a delish, not-too-spicy kick - try the pork. Another
classic, inexpensive, casual eatery in the mall is
Pho 79
(9200 Bolsa Ave, Suite 117; mains from
$6; 8am-7:30pm), which dishes up a variety of noodle and vegetable dishes. The pho ga
(chicken noodle soup) has a hearty broth.
Old Towne Orange
Settlers began arriving en masse in Orange County after the Civil War, lured by cheap land
and fertile fields. Today the city of Orange, 7 miles southeast of Disneyland, retains its
charming historical center. Locals, antique hounds, SoCal nostalgia buffs and foodies con-
tinue to flock here.
Eating
Browse Old Towne Orange's traffic circle and Glassell St for more than a dozen cafes, res-
taurants, wine bars and brewpubs.
Filling Station
DINER
(
www.fillingstationcafe.com
; 201 N Glassell St; mains $7-14;
6:30am-9pm, to 10pm Fri & Sat;
)
