A New Chapter Opens on Chapman Avenue: Centro Makes Its Debut in Old Towne

A familiar building on Chapman Avenue is beginning a new chapter as Centro quietly opens its doors in Old Towne Orange. The restaurant is now in its soft opening phase, giving the community an early look at a space that blends history, thoughtful design, and accessibility.

Located at 208 East Chapman Avenue, Centro occupies the former home of Bob Shade & Linoleum, reimagined through an adaptive reuse that respects the building’s past while introducing something entirely new. Rather than starting from scratch, the project leans into the character of the space — preserving its roots while reshaping it for modern dining.

One of Centro’s most notable features is its handicapped-accessible basement dining area, a first of its kind in Orange. The inclusion of an accessible lower level reflects a broader intention behind the project: creating a space that welcomes more people and removes barriers that often exist in older buildings.

The soft opening marks an early opportunity for locals to experience Centro before its full rollout. As with many soft openings, the focus is on fine-tuning the experience, welcoming feedback, and easing into regular service — all while introducing Old Towne to a new dining option.

As Old Towne continues to evolve, projects like Centro highlight how historic spaces can be thoughtfully reused rather than replaced. It’s another example of Orange growing forward while honoring what came before — and a reminder that some of the city’s most interesting transformations happen inside buildings we thought we already knew.