Farrell's making a comeback?

Growing up in Riverside, CA, a special occasion would not be complete without a trip to Farrell's for old-timey ice cream fun. Big drums. Troughs full of cold sugar. Something called a "Golddigger." They went out of business in the early 90's, although we found one in Santa Clarita a few years ago... I, for one, welcome the return of our Ice Cream Overlords.

From the OC Register:

Rumors have been floating for months about where Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour will land in Orange County.

Today, the wait is over. Farrell’s will make its O.C. comeback at… .(insert big Farrell’s drum gong here)
…The Shops at Mission Viejo.

The mall and Parlour Enterprises have inked a deal to open a 7,300-square-foot restaurant and ice cream shop in the space once-occupied by Oceans 33.

Although there’s a Farrell’s in Santa Clarita, the Mission Viejo restaurant will be the first of several “original concept” parlours planned in California by Laguna Niguel-based Parlour Enterprises.
At its peak, Farrell’s boasted more than 130 restaurants in the United States. Several were located in Orange County. Parlour officials said the Mission Viejo location will maintain “the heart and soul” of the ice cream parlour that most kids and families remember.

That nostalgic ambiance includes employees dressed in pin-striped vests, old-fashioned ties and cane hats. A player piano will set the musical tone as will the beat of the famous “Farrell’s drum,” gonged every time a major announcement is made in the restaurant.

Still, the restaurant will be modernized to accommodate diet trends. For example, “sugar-free” and “no sugar added” ice cream and topping options will be available. The restaurant will also feature frozen yogurt, as well as a diverse bistro-style lunch and dinner menu.

“We know that things have changed a lot in 30 years so we’re mixing in some more current ideas, but it will be much like what people remember,” said Michael Fleming, Chief executive of Parlour Enterprises.
Mall officials said Farrell’s is scheduled to open in early fall.