Try as they might, most cities simply cannot manufacture what Ogden, Utah's Historic 25th Street already has: authentic retro style. All the local merchants had to do was polish it up.
Over the past decade, the old rail center's funky brick buildings, creaky antiques stores, 1950s nightclub, and Chinese noodle house with a vintage neon sign have all been restored; some have been completely renovated.
Today the street's classic personality merges seamlessly with chic new boutiques and restaurants along the three-block stretch from Union Station to Washington Boulevard, making it the ideal destination for an autumn afternoon of shopping, sipping, and savoring.
SHOP:
Ruby & Begonia. WHAT: The entire inventory changes monthly in this gorgeous den of decidedly feminine frills for the home. You'll find exquisite baby clothes, jewelry, stationery, and seasonal holiday treasures too. WHEN: 10-6 Mon-Sat. WHERE: 204 Historic 25th St.; 801/334-7829.
The Needlepoint Joint. WHAT: An artful selection of thread, yarn, and buttons, all brilliantly organized in a modern emporium. It's a fun browse; if you're hooked on knitting or needlework, it's a must. WHEN: 10-5:30 Mon-Sat (until 7 Thu). WHERE: 241 Historic 25th St.; 801/394-4355. Umé. WHAT: Amusing, trendy clothing, shoes, and accessories―handbags are a specialty―at one of the street's newest boutiques. WHEN: 11-5 Mon-Sat (until 7 Thu-Fri). WHERE: 186 Historic 25th St.; 801/393-7326.
EAT:
Tona. WHAT: 25th Street's newest destination for sushi and other Japanese classics. Enjoy soft-shell crab, sashimi, and ten don donburi (rice bowl with prawn and vegetable tempura) in a 1908 building with a modern palette of lime and kelly green. WHEN: Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. HOW MUCH: $$. WHERE: 210 Historic 25th St.; 801/622-8662.
Roosters 25th Street Brewing Co. WHAT: Quench your thirst and hang with the locals at the popular restaurant that kicked off 25th Street's revival 10 years ago. Brews are housemade, and the menu goes beyond pub grub. WHEN: Lunch and dinner daily. HOW MUCH: $$. WHERE: 253 Historic 25th St.; 801/627-6171.
INFO: Ogden is 32 miles north of Salt Lake City. Contact the Ogden/ Weber Convention Visitors Bureau (www.ogdencvb.org or 866/867-8824).
