Carlos Calderon and his son Sergio uphold the family tradition at Felix Continental Café, founded by Carlos’s father, Ramon, in 1979.
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Felix Continental Cafe
A beacon of longevity in Old Towne, Felix Continental Café has served quality cuisine from its landmark Plaza location since the late ’70s.
Owner and manager Carlos Calderon began working at the restaurant in 1983. His father, Ramon, founded the restaurant in 1979 after he emigrated from Cuba.
Through the years, Felix Continental Café has survived and thrived, ranking among the top-three oldest restaurants in Old Towne Orange.
A respected icon of the Old Towne community, Ramon passed away in 2008 just shy of his 77th birthday. Carlos remembers him as a mentor and motivating force.
“From a young age, my father was a believer in hard work,” Carlos said. “He was a nose-to-the-grindstone kind of guy. He taught me everything from running the kitchen to management and purchasing. But the most important thing I learned from him was his work ethic — to get up every day and work hard.”
Although Cuban specialties have defined the menu for decades, the restaurant didn’t start out as such. For the first four years, continental cuisine was the main focus, thus the name “Felix Continental Café.” Customers encouraged Ramon to offer Cuban fare.
Today, Cuban and Spanish cuisine comprises the menu, characterized by generous portions at reasonable prices. Paella is the signature Spanish dish, while roast pork highlights the Cuban offerings.
“The menu has stayed pretty much the same for many years,” Carlos said. “We have 10 specials, including oxtail, that we rotate on a monthly basis. Our customer service is top rate. People keep coming back.”
The restaurant now boasts three generations of the Calderon family. Carlos’ youngest son, Sergio, is currently working as a waiter and assistant.
“It feels good to carry on the family tradition,” Carlos said. “He is learning the business and hopefully someday he will be following in my footsteps.”
Felix Continental Cafe
36 Plaza Square, Old Towne Orange, CA 92866 / 714-633-5842
