Archives for December 2020
Bryan’s Favorites for 2020
Confession: I am 8 weeks overdue for an article here at Dayton Most Metro.
I’ve been working on my latest piece in my Quest for the Best series. See past Quests here. I just can’t pull the trigger. Calling a place the best is hard to do. Too much drama from the local foodie scene when you label it the best.
My Quests started a long time ago. 5-6 or 7 years ago I created a Pad Thai crawl. My group ponied up $50 and we ate Pad Thai 5 times in one afternoon. Eat. Rest. Drive. Eat again. Repeat. Started at noon at the Greene and finished at Thai 9 at 5:00. A while later I wrote it up as my quest to find the best Pad Thai in Dayton. I don’t recommend that volume for anyone in a day.
I repeated that same format with a taco crawl, four stops, three hours. I’ve done epic 8 or 10 restaurant crawls in Kansas City in 48 hours. Same in Memphis. Austin. Once did 4 BBQ places in one day here in Southwest Ohio.
In case you are wondering, my favorite BBQ in all of Southwest Ohio is either Just Q’in (Walnut Hills) or Combs BBQ in Middletown. Here in Dayton I like most all, City, Oink, Smokin, Fat Backs, and FlyBy are all legit and doing good stuff with BBQ here. If I didn’t list a local brick and mortar store in Dayton just now, that was on purpose. Either I don’t like it, or it doesn’t count as a BBQ spot for me.
I later wrote about the best Reuben in Dayton. I had Reuben sandwiches at 17 restaurants over an 8 week period. That’s two a week or more for two months. I thought I found the best. I really just found my favorite.
All this to say, in recent weeks and months I have seen the worst in foodies when the subject of “Wheres the Best?” arises in a conversation.
If I have learned anything its that best is subjective. There are no standards for best Pad Thai and when you factor in regional tastes or the chef putting it together its impossible to decide on the standard for best. Same with biscuits and gravy. Or tacos. Tacos people! Tacos are more regional in Mexico than pizza in the US.
What people are asking, when they ask for the best, is this: What is your favorite?
Asking that question takes away the debate. My favorite my not be your favorite. But no matter what the sauces are, or the cut of meat, my favorite is still my favorite.
In third grade, Jennifer Whitley quietly smoked the rest of Mrs. Hopkin’s class in the 50 yard dash. She was not the best runner. She was simply the fastest runner in the class that day. And for many days and years ahead. There’s a difference. Best. Fastest. Favorite. That is also the day I learned I would never be on the track team.
When we say best, we say favorite, and when we say favorite, we often mean personal or nostalgic. I am an unabashed Skyline Chili guy and Cassano’s pizza guy. I love them both. Unashamed. Those two places were a big deal in the small town I grew up in. I have close personal memories of dining with my family at the Lebanon London Bobby’s and later Cassano’s pizza. Up here, closer to Dayton, Marion’s is an institution. For many of the same reasons.
Recently I had the best service and the best complete dinner I’ve had this year. It was at Jay’s Seafood in the Oregon district. I had never been there. My tastes tend more to Abners, Taco trucks and low brow BBQ, not fine dining.
But. Jay’s did not disappoint. If I shared the menu with you, someone would tell me how they got better scallops or white fish or spinach salad somewhere else in town. Maybe the fried oyster was not the best. But it was perfect for me. Delightful crispy fritter with a well cooked tender oyster tucked inside. Having lived in Florida on the coast and in Louisiana near the coast, it was as good as I ever had. If I called it the best, someone would call me out for knowing nothing about fried oysters. If there was a technical error, it was never observed under the lighting of perfect and attentive service, a romantic dining room and gorgeous dinner partner.
I’ve had similar perfect nights at Mamma Disalvos, Treasure Island, Oakwood Club, Pine Club, and Thai 9 has never let me down. Some will comment and disagree with my experience, saying theirs wasn’t the same. Your experience and my experience don’t have to be the same for them both to be true.
So, for my best of list this year I offer this instead, my favorite foods and where to get them:
Italian – Mamma Disalvos
Deli – Zink’s Centerville (Pork tenderloin is ridiculous)
Burger – Disalvo’s Deli (Thursday’s only)
Taco – Garcia Mobil truck (3rd and Huffman)
Pizza – Cassano’s or Old Scratch
Pad Thai – House of Thai (Beavercreek)
Cuban Sandwich – El Meson (best con gris too)
Biscuits and Gravy – Tanks or Mom’s (if you know you know) (Franklin Ohio)
Falafel – Carmen’s Deli
Reuben – FlyBoys Deli
Fried Chicken – Krispy Krunchy Chicken, Gas station, Stroop and Far Hills
Bakery – Big Sky
Chili – Slyder’s Tavern
Wings – Lock 27
Patio – Trolley Stop (I can’t wait to be there again)
Bar – Lily’s
I know what is going to happen. People are gonna see this list. They are going to comment, sure that is good, but have you had…..? The chances are I have. I probably really have tried your spot. So let’s remember. I’m not saying the best. I am saying this is my favorite.
For the record, Zink’s makes a fantastic burger, always cooked perfect. Carmen’s Deli makes a great Reuben. FlyBoy deli has a reuben pizza that will have you rethinking your life. It’s that good. Tank’s burger and those fries. Killer. Thai-9 has my favorite Red Curry and their sushi is top notch. Yummy Burger has great Pad Thai if a burger isn’t your thing. Company 7 has great wings and bbq too. Jimmy’s Ladder 11 has a shrimp po’ boy that reminds me of Baton Rouge. For a burger and beer, its hard to have a better experience than Blind Bob’s and their wings are legit too. Fastest lunch under $10? Falbs.
My favorite calamari ever was at Oakwood Club, my most memorable black and bleu burger came from there too, same night. That night was a celebration. Friends. Drinks. War stories. The food just came and we shared and ate. I remember the people as much as the calamari, cocktails and that burger that arrived just as the kitchen was closing. Are there better burgers? Maybe, but that night, well that can’t be done again. You see, the calamari was just one part. It was the experience as much as the perfect cut, tasty tempura or the accompanying sauce. Favorite. Not best.
So, tell me your favorite, leave a comment and tell me yours!
Dayton at Work and Play: Foremost Seafood
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dining 2020
Restaurant dining this December looks like most of 2020: dining outdoors where possible and getting takeout or delivery. This holiday season, local restaurants are ramping up their offerings up with special menus for holiday dining. There are feasts with traditional roast turkey or ham as the centerpiece as well as modern twists on festive meals.
This curated list isn’t an exhaustive list, so we encourage you to contact your favorite spot and inquire about their holiday celebration menus. Our local restaurants need your support more than ever. We’ll be updating this story as more restaurants reveal their plans.
The following restaurants are open on Christmas Eve:
316 Tap & Barrel Grill
111 W. Main St. Medway, OH 45341
(937) 849-0423
Offering a limited menu on Christmas Eve. We will be taking reservations for parties of no more than 8. We will also be offering curbside pick up and take out. Prime Rib will be one of the main courses.
Amar India Restaurant
2751 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. Dayton, OH 45459 (937) 439 – 9005
Open Christmas Eve 11.30am –8.00pm, same hours on Christmas Day
Bravo Italian Kitchen
2770 Miamisburg Centerville Rd Centerville (937) 439-1294
Opening at 11am on Christmas – reservations suggested
Carvers Steaks & Chops
Make your reservations today and Enjoy Dinner with us on Christmas Eve from 4 to 9pm
Chappys Social House
937-439-9200
Company 7 BBQ
1001 S Main St, Englewood, OH 45322
937-836-2777
Open 11am – 4pm
Giovanni’s Fairborn
Mudlick Tap House
134 E. 2nd Street, Dayton
(937) 895-4066
Join the “jolliest bunch of assholes this side of the nuthouse” and start a new tradition by celebrating Christmas Eve with a “fun, old-fashioned family Christmas!”A Griswold’s Christmas Eve Brunch. 10am – 5pm
Pasha Grill
937-429-9000
Open 11am – 10pm, also open Christmas Day 11am -9pm
Salar
937-203-3999
Smashburger
Sky Asian Cuisine
4090 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH
Reservations are highly recommended.
The Caroline
5 S Market St, Troy, OH 45373
937-552-7676
Reservations starting at 3pm, last seating at 8:30pm, credit card required for reservations, 48 hour notice for cancellations
The Florentine
21 W Market St, Germantown
937-855-7759
Open for both dine-in and curbside pickup from 11am – 10pm.
The Spaghetti Warehouse
937-461-3913
Tokyo Grill
937-610-1999
Watermark
20 S 1st St, Miamisburg, OH 45342
937-802-0891
Open on Christmas Eve from 4-8pm, reservations suggested
Looking for Someone Else to Prepare Your Holiday Meal?
Amber Rose Restaurant & Catering
3100 Woodman Dr, Kettering 937-898-2761
450 Patterson Rd, Dayton 937-298-1234
Available for pickup 12/21–12/24 (until 1pm).
From your oven to table in 3 hours or less | Serves up to 10
Comes with: Spiral Sliced Sugar Cured Ham, Cornbread Dressing, Roasted Gravy, Cranberry Relish, Choice of 3 Country Sides (each serves 10), Sweet Yeast Rolls, Apple Pecan Streusel Pie & Pecan Pie. Substitute our Green Bean Casserole for any Heat n’ Serve side, or add as an additional side for an added cost.Includes easy-to-follow heating instructions and leftover recipe
Christopher’s Restaurant & Catering
2318 E Dorothy Ln., Kettering, Ohio 45420
(937)-299-0089
Dewberry 1850
1414 S. Patterson in the Marriott at UD (937) 586-4150
Orders are live now at https://dewberry1850christmas.eventbrite.com
Dayton Masonic Center: 525 West Riverview Avenue 937-559-4590
[email protected]
Holiday Ham Feast -Feeds 4-6 people $99.00
Ready to heat and serve this dinner includes a smoked quarter Ham with Maple Brown Sugar Glaze. Paired with 3-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes, Roasted Fall Vegetables with Pecan Crumble (an Elite favorite!), Green Beans Almondine with Soft Dinner Rolls.
Note: Heat and eat within 36 minutes.
903 E Dixie Dr, West Carrollton 937-859-8229
3500 Rigby Rd, Miamisburg, 937-865-9355
Prime Rib Feast Includes:
Prime Rib, Parmesan Mashed Potatoes, Corn Bread Dressing, Horseradish Sauce & Aus Jus, Spiced Pecan Green Beans, Broccoli-cheddar casserole, Deviled Egg Tray, Chocolate Cheesecake with raspberry sauce, Bread and whipped Butter
$169.95 (Serves 6) or $299.95 (Serves 12)
Turkey Feast Includes:
Roasted sliced Turkey & Gravy, Parmesan Mashed Potatoes, Corn Bread Dressing, Homemade Cranberry Sauce, Spiced Pecan Green Beans, Broccoli-cheddar casserole, Deviled Egg Tray, Chocolate Cheesecake with raspberry sauce, Bread and whipped Butter
$139.95 (Serves 6) or $249.95 (Serves 12)
936 Brown St. Dayton, 937-424-1784
Dinners can be prepped “to be reheated” for December 23rd pick up for your Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. (Family Dinners are portioned to feed 4)
Key Ingredient Catering
Order at [email protected]
Kohler’s Catering
4572 Presidential Way, Kettering 937-291-3600
Pick-up or Delivery available December 10th thru December 24th and New Year’s Eve Day (10:30 to 1:30 p.m.) with a 48 hour advanced notice.
Call us at 937-291-3600 or email us at [email protected]
HOLIDAY HAM DINNER PACKAGE $150.00 Serves 8
Sliced Glazed Ham, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Honey Glazed Carrots, Fresh Green Beans, Garden Salad with Dressing, Mini Cheese Appetizer Display, Dinner Rolls, and Traditional Holiday Cookies
TURKEY DINNER PACKAGE $150.00 Serves 8
Whole Roasted Turkey (White & Dark Meat), Homestyle Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes with Gravy, Honey Glazed Carrots, Fresh Green Beans, Garden Salad, Mini Cheese Appetizer Display, Dinner Rolls and Traditional Holiday Cookies
PRIME RIB DINNER PACKAGE $200.00 Serves 8
Boneless Prime Rib with Au Jus, Double Stuffed Potatoes, Honey Glazed Carrots, Fresh Green Beans, Traditional Caesar Salad, Tuscan Antipasto Appetizer Display, Dinner Rolls and Traditional Holiday Cookies
BEEF TENDERLOIN DINNER PACKAGE $265.00 Serves 8
Sliced Beef Tenderloin with Béarnaise Sauce, Double Stuffed Potatoes, Honey Glazed Carrots, Assorted Greens – with Fresh Strawberries, Pecans, Gorgonzola with a White Wine Vinaigrette, Tuscan Antipasto Display, Dinner Rolls and Traditional Holiday Cookies.
140 W.Third Street, Dayton 937-524-5103
524 E 5th St Dayton, OH 45402. (937) 222-3100
Short rib roast with garlic & black pepper focaccia crust $53
Lasagna Verde Al Forno $40- $140
Roasted Beet Winter Salad $30
Michigan Cheery Bread Pudding w/Brand Sauce $14
400 E 5th St Dayton, OH 45402 (937) 203-3999
Place your order anytime before December 22 at 6pm to pick up on Thursday, December 24th between 3-6pm.
Texas Beef & Cattle Company
1101 W 3rd St. Dayton, OH 45402 (937) 723-9958
26 Wyandot St, Dayton, OH 45402 (937) 222-7003
25 Wright Station Way, Springboro, OH 45066 (937) 222-7003
Festivus Miracles and Airings of Grievances Live On with Fifth Street Brewpub’s Take Home Kits
Celebrate all of 2020’s Festivus Miracles and share in your Airing of Grievances, as Festivus lives on with Fifth Street Brewpub’s Take Home kits. Each kit costs $35 and contains a Festivus-inspired meal for three or four (a ready-to-cook-at-home beef meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and glazed carrots), cards for sharing your Miracles and Grievances and a handmade Fifth Street Brewpub Festivus Pole to gather your loved ones around. For $10 more, add on a growler of FSB beer (some limitations apply).
“Festivus is one of our favorite traditions at the Brewpub,” Tanya Brock, general manager of Fifth Street Brewpub said. “When we were looking at the current recommendations and restrictions, we thought offering a meal kit, that was still fun and encouraged community, could be a great way to safely continue the tradition.”
The Festivus Take Home Kit is part of the Brewpub’s Christmas Past, Present & Future: A Holiday Sale – happening now through year’s end. In addition to last minute gifts like pint glasses, hats and shirts, personalized patio bricks and brewpub co-op memberships are available, and there is a raffle for a Fifth Street Brewpub handmade quilt.
“From neighbors, to co-op members, to completely new faces, it’s been so amazing to see how our community has continued to support us,” Brock said. “Every dollar you spend, you’re not only keeping the lights on, but you’re keeping our spirits bright in these dark times.”
For those interested, preorder is available December 18-21 while supplies last by emailing [email protected], Pick up available on December December 22 or 23
History, Mystery, Murder and Mayhem at Woodland Cemetery: Joseph Leslie’s Tragic Life
Joseph Leslie gave his attentions to Mary Miranda Kaylor of New Lebanon, Ohio. Her mother, however, did not care for him and wanted to see her daughter date another young man in the neighborhood whom she did like. Joseph found out about this and it did not sit well with him. One afternoon, as he was in his upper room at the Horner’s Hotel, across the street from the residence of Miss Kaylor, he saw her return from a walk and then sit on her front porch and begin to sew. All it took was one bullet and Martha fell over and lived but just three or four minutes after receiving the shot. That was Friday, August 31, 1866.
Joseph denied the shooting but a six-shooter was found in his trunk with only one bullet discharged; burnt powder was found on the window. The neighbors had no doubt he was guilty and he was soon arrested and placed in jail.
On Friday, December 14, 1866, the Grand Jury handed down an indictment of murder in the first degree. The seating of a jury for his trial began in April 1867. It was a difficult jury to seat as most of the men interviewed had made up their mind that Joseph was guilty. The Daily Empire newspaper even wrote about the role the newspapers played in disseminating information to the public. “It seemed next thing to impossible yesterday, to get a jury on the case of Leslie… parties claiming to have made up their minds in relation to the case from what the papers had published regarding it.” They went on to say, “When newspapers publish full statements of such cases, it fixes the guilt or innocence of the accused in the public mind, and renders a subsequent trial a mere legal farce.”
During one questioning of a potential juror, he was asked if he had any “conscientious scruples regarding capital punishment,” but the man did not seem to understand the question. He was then asked, “Are you opposed to hanging?” and the man immediately replied, “No sir! The scoundrel ought to be hung up!” Evidently, he had read reports in the newspapers.
By the end of April, the trial had begun. Leslie’s defense team had witnesses testify that he was a quiet, law-abiding man that had served in the War. The Captain of his company testified that he was one of the best men under his watch.
On May 3rd, in just an hour and a half, the jury came back with a verdict of murder in the first degree for the shooting Miss Kaylor. Joseph Leslie did not move a muscle upon hearing the verdict nor did his face betray him. One of the deputy’s whom escorted him back to his jail cell said, “Joe, that’s hard!” in which Leslie replied, “Yes, that’s pretty heavy.” While it was thought that Joseph would swing from the gallows, he was sentenced to 10 years in the State Penitentiary.
In June 1881, Joseph had been living at the Soldier’s Home in Dayton and requested to be discharged on June 21st. In the early morning hours on June 27, he shoots himself in the stomach at a beer saloon on Jackson Street. It was reported in one newspaper that upon hearing that Mrs. Miller refused to marry him that he shot himself. Another reported that he couldn’t stand the warm weather. He refused to be taken to the Soldier’s Home and instead was taken to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. He survived his wounds but soon succumbed by his own hands in December.
The headline in the New York Tribune read “A Murderer Commits Suicide” and the Dayton Journal headline read “The Final Act: In the Career of an Extraordinary Man.” The Tribune article was a three line snippet of news that called Joseph Leslie “a worthless character” who committed suicide. The Journal wrote a more comprehensive article giving the details of Joseph’s life including his military service.
Joseph Leslie was a member of Co. A, 11th Ohio Volunteer Infantry under the command of Col. De Villiers in the Civil War. He served three years and was known as a fearless soldier and a very determined man. At a skirmish in Big Springs, Tennessee, the fingers of his right hand were mangled by a Minnie ball so that they hung to his hand by shreds of the skin and amputation was necessary. Unfortunately, there was no surgeon nearby so Joseph cut the dangling fingers off with his own pocket knife.
It was reported that Joseph’s behavior was often times erratic. He was a loner, not one to hang around with the other men in his company. At Shiloh and other battlefields, he dug holes in the ground and slept in them at night by himself. He was honorably discharged from the service and received a monthly pension of just $18.00.
Joseph Leslie died on December 29, 1881 of an opium overdose. He was buried in an unmarked grave in the City Lot at Woodland Cemetery on December 30, 1881.
You can visit the gravesite of Mr. Leslie and all of the other people on the History, Mystery, Mayhem and Murder Tour at Woodland Cemetery by going to our Tour page and downloading our Woodland Mobile App.
Woodland Cemetery, founded in 1841, is one of the nation’s oldest rural garden cemeteries and a unique cultural, botanical and educational resource in the heart of Dayton, Ohio. It is the final resting place of the Wright Brothers, Erma Bombeck, Paul Laurence Dunbar, Charles F. Kettering, John H. Patterson, Gov. James M. Cox, George P. Huffman, George H. Mead, and Levi and Matilda Stanley, King and Queen of the Gypsy’s and more than 111,000 others who made it great in Dayton.
Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 118 Woodland Avenue off of Brown Street near the University of Dayton Campus. The Cemetery and Arboretum are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm and until 7 pm during Daylight Saving Time. The Mausoleum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 937-228-3221 or visit the Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum website.
New Pick-Up Zones Make Curbside Pick Up Easier Downtown
As the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to wreak havoc on Dayton’s small businesses, the Downtown Dayton Partnership and the City of Dayton announce a new strategy aimed at increasing potential for sales of downtown’s collection of local restaurants, pubs, retailers, and other downtown businesses. Starting today, Dec. 17, customers can access Pick-up Zones: free, temporary parking spaces specifically for carry-out, curbside pickup, and delivery drivers retrieving orders.
“This pandemic already decreased indoor capacity for our restaurants and retailers, and with the colder months ahead of us, we wanted to make sure we were using every opportunity to help these businesses earn revenue,” said DDP President Sandra Gudorf.
There are currently 18 temporary, on-street Pick-up Zones located near businesses whose customers would benefit from the visibility and convenience of these designated zones. The Pick-up Zones are located in on-street spaces currently designated as loading zones or metered parking. The Zones will be marked with the highly visible, green-branded signage. Vehicles with their flashers on will be permitted to park at no cost for up to 10 minutes within the zone.
“We’ve seen a drop in sales since office workers haven’t been coming downtown,” said Whitney Wedding, owner of Winans Chocolates + Coffee, 221 N. Patterson Blvd. “The new Pick-up Zone will make it quick and easy for customers to grab a latte, chocolates, or holiday gifts. It also is more practical for our curbside pick-up orders for those who are unable to come inside the shop.”
Pick-up Zones will also be a boon for retail businesses, as well. “For those who don’t take advantage of our free delivery service, our customers only need very short trips to our shop, either to drop off their dry cleaning and laundry items or pick up their fresh, pressed orders,” said Vanessa Lloyd, owner of A+ Cleaners at 105 E. Second St. “The new Pick-up Zones will allow us to serve our customers quickly and conveniently.”
The temporary Pick-up Zones will be in place until April 30, 2021. “It is our hope that initiatives like this will be enough to sustain our small business through the next couple of months, until the widespread availability of a vaccine or warmer weather enables more people to patronize their favorite downtown restaurants and pubs,” Gudorf said.
For those businesses without a dedicated parking area, Pick-up Zones will offer a new, convenient option for customers. Nearly all downtown restaurants and retailers offer pick-up, carryout, and/or delivery options. To see the latest list of businesses that are open and what services are provided, visit DowntownDayton.org/Open.
McCoy on Movies: Promising Young Woman
a #MeToo-era thriller sure to rouse audiences
WATCH THE TRAILER(S) HERE:
DIRECTOR: Emerald Fennell
KEY CAST MEMBERS: Carey Mulligan, Bo Burnham, Chris Lowell, Laverne Cox, Alison Brie, Jennifer Coolidge, Clancy Brown, Sam Richardson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Adam Brody with Connie Britton, Molly Shannon and Alfred Molina
THE BACK STORY: Cassandra “Cassie” Thomas (Carey Mulligan) leads a very interesting life. Working at a local coffee shop under her boss Gail (Laverne Cox), she still lives at home with her parents Susan and Stanley (Jennifer Coolidge and Clancy Brown) despite being on the cusp of her 30 birthday and seemingly has no friends. Well, she did have a friend in Nina, her medical school colleague who suffered a very unfortunate incident that contributed to her untimely demise.
Be that as it may, Cassie has found a new hobby: Going to night clubs and acting highly intoxicated, waiting for an unsuspecting male suitor like Jerry (Adam Brody) … or Paul (Sam Richardson) … or Neil (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) to pick her up to take her home. Then she teaches them a lesson they’ll never forget so that they don’t try and do something like that ever again.
So, when Ryan Cooper (Bo Burnham), another former medical school colleague, strolls into the coffee shop to ask her out, she is obviously reluctant to do so at first. But while Ryan continues his pursuit of her, Cassie learns of some news about another former college colleague, it sets in motion a series of events that will show hell hath no fury like a Promising Young Woman scorned …
Mulligan’s diligence to making Cassie a character you understand the motivations is what drives Woman from start to finish, even at times when some characters could seemingly be forgiven for their actions. But, in the tradition of films like Who’s Next?, Peppermint and Gone Girl, Mulligan’s total commitment makes you forgive any of the films flaws and/or exaggerations necessary to make the film work. Credit should also go to Fennell – who was nominated for two Emmys during her time as the showrunner for Killing Eve – however, for making every one of her lead’s actions both understandable, relatable and much more sympathetic than the alternative. Cassie prefers to prevent instead of punish in most instances, keeping her character’s female machismo from reaching the cartoonish levels of that plagued the most recent Charlie’s Angels film from start to finish.
To say much more will ruin some of the surprises that lie ahead in the film; all you need to know is the film’s trailer gives you just enough information to let you know the promise of the film deserves your interest.
Elsa’s Boro Cantina Now Open
It was over a year ago that Elsa’s co-owner Jason Hemmert signed a lease to take over the old Buffalo Wild Wings Space in the Springboro shopping and now it’s finally time to start pouring the Bad Juans. For those not familiar- Simple, pure and lethal. This is for the heavy hitters who like to get down to business and gulp ’em down. They are however served with a tiny straw and a lime wedge for those who like to sip these slowly and savor the experience.
We prefer ours frozen and flavored!
While the layout in the 4500 square foot space hasn’t really changed much, accommodations have been made for Covid-19, with less seating, plexiglass dividers between tables and staffs in masks were evident when I visited. This sixth Elsa’s location is heavy on the tv’s, with 32 sets hung all around the restaurant.
We started our meal with some chile con queso and chips and loaded tater tots. Their salsa is pretty mild, so be sure and ask for a little hot sauce or their green chile jalapeno sauce.
The menu represents a lot of the traditional Elsa’s fare- taco’s, burrito’s, quesadillas and fajita’s.
New on this menu – Bowls. Veggie , Buffalo and fajita, which include you choice of Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice, black beans shredded lettuce, cheese and more. And unlike some Elsa’s – no burgers on this menu.
But you will find over a dozen chicken wing choices from smokey bbq, buffalo garlic, to “I’m on fire ready to die” and you have your choice of breading or no breading as well as the option to choose to order all drums or all flaps for a slight upcharge.
You can also order Pedro’s Pizzas in 10″ or 14″ thin crust- make your own selecting from over 20 ingredients or select one of their specialties like the Buffalo chicken pizza or the chicken BLT ranch.
Elsa’s Boro Cantina
774 N. Main St., Springboro
937-790-1800
Mon- Thurs 3 to 10 pm
Fri, Sat & Sun 11am – 9pm
Lunch hours will be added when they hire more cooks, so if you know anyone looking Elsa’s is hiring – paying up to $15 in the kitchen.
Dayton Metro Library Bridges the Digital Divide with GET CONNECTED Program
Dayton Metro Library is working to bridge the digital divide with Get Connected, an exciting new initiative made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and CARES Act funds. Get Connected will provide four months of FREE internet access to 800 local households in need. The program launches on January 5, 2021, and applications will be accepted through February 27, or until the 800 household maximum is reached.
“Not having home internet access is a real disadvantage in today’s world,” said Megan Cooper, DML Development Manager. “Students are trying to learn remotely, adults may be looking for work, and many households are struggling to make ends meet. Get Connected will help people get the home internet service they need.”
How does it work? Dayton Metro Library is the initial account holder of record. The Library will cover the cost of Spectrum broadband service and equipment for four months. After that time, participants may choose to transfer the service into their own name, or they may return the equipment and let the service end. Those who choose to transfer service may be eligible for reduced rates through Spectrum’s Internet Assist Program.
“Because Dayton Metro Library is the account holder of record, this program can benefit someone who has been locked out of internet service due to bad credit or past due bills,” said Cooper.
Get Connected will benefit 800 households in the Dayton Metro Library service area. Applicants must be DML cardholders age 18 and older. To be eligible, households must be in the DML and Spectrum service areas, and not current Spectrum internet customers. Applications will be available starting January 5 at all DML locations; a printable application will be available at DaytonMetroLibrary.org/GetConnected.
“Dayton Metro Library is committed to building equity in the community,” said Tim Kambitsch, DML Executive Director. “This includes connecting patrons with support systems and increasing access to resources for minority, disadvantaged, and new residents. By providing free home internet access, we are breaking down barriers and providing an opportunity for people to continue affordable internet access into the future. This could positively impact a child’s success in school, an adult’s search for employment, or an older person’s abilty to stay connected with friends and family.”
Full program details are available at DaytonMetroLibrary.org/GetConnected. Complete an application at any branch of the Dayton Metro Library starting January 5. For more information, or to make arrangements to apply curbside, call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.
WDTN Wants you to Nominate A Remarkable Woman
WDTN will again recognize the great contributions women have made to our nation and local communities. Remarkable Women is part of a nationwide Nexstar Media initiative to honor the influence that women have had on public policy, social progress and the quality of life.
WDTN will celebrate local women that inspire, lead and forge the way for other women. It’s not just about one day or one month — it’s about what they do, day-in and day-out. You’ll have 500 words to make your case on why your nominee should win.
In March, we’ll highlight four local women who will be considered for Nexstar’s nationwide 2020 Woman of the Year Award. The national winner will be named in early April.
Flyby BBQ Launching Drive Through Service
A new way to enjoy Flyby BBQ is coming this Monday December 14th – a drive through. In an effort to allow more customers to experience the barbecue they’ve come to love, the company is setting up a makeshift drive through, that they are dubbing a “Fly Through”, with their food truck outside their restaurant at Fairfield Commons Mall for the next 3 months (at least). It will be located in the main entrance parking lot near the restaurant, toward Panera bread and Blackrock Grill.
The drive through will offer speedy service without leaving the comfort / safety of your vehicle and will have COVID protocols in place. It will have a limited menu but will include most of the customer favorites such as the famous “build-your-own” macaroni bowls with slow-smoked proteins. Hot chocolate will be available for the winter season and the food truck will be sporting a dazzling display of many Christmas Lights to spread holiday cheer.
The drive through will be open in addition to (in-store ordering and door dash will still be available) the restaurant’s normal hours. The hours of the drive through will be as follows until January, then will be adjusted slightly: Sunday-Friday 11AM-2PM, 5PM-8PM | Saturday 11AM-8PM
E5C4P3: The Journey Tribute with Velvet Crush
Formed in June of 1993, E5C4P3 has traveled nationwide and paid tribute to one of rock history’s most beloved bands performing for tens of thousands of fans. E5C4P3 – The Journey Tribute Band is the original and best Journey tribute band to ever exist, recreating the magic of a Journey concert like no one else can
Restaurants Offering Holiday Gift Card Deals for 2020
Giving restaurant gift cards make it easy to treat someone special to a meal, and many eateries reward your generosity. Restaurants commonly offer gift card deals, providing you with a little something extra when you purchase a specified amount of dining credits. Take a look at some of the gift card deals we found out there, most of the deals below are available now through December 31, 2020. We’ll continue to update this list, if you know of a deal we should add, please send us an email.
Blue Crab Juicy Seafood
8901 Kingsridge Dr, Miami Township 937-813-8081
Spend $50 get $55 spend $100 get $110$ and last but not least spend $150 get $160
Must walk-in to get your gift card.
Bravo
2770 Miamisburg Centerville Rd 937-439-1294
900 Msbg Centerville Rd, Washington Township 937-438-9690
Purchase $50 in Carrabba’s gift cards and receive a $10 bonus card. Bonus cards valid from Jan. 1 – Feb. 7. Option to customize gift card with photo on
For every $50 in gift cards purchased you will receive a $10 bonus card!
Limited time only, $100 gift card for $80 ,$50 gift card for $40 and a $25 gift card for only $20!
Chuy’s
10445 Innovation Dr Miamisburg, OH 45342
(937) 247-5450
Buy $100 or more in gift cards and we’ll give you 10% off. Both in-stores and online at www.chuys.com/shop
El Meson
903 E Dixie Dr, West Carrollton 937-859-8229
Offering an additional $10 gift card with every $50 gift card purchased.
El Rancho Grande
multiple locations
Buy a $40 gift card get $10 free, Buy $80 gift card, get $20 free
Figlio
424 E Stroop Rd, Dayton, OH 45429 937-534-0494
For every $100 you spend, you get a $25 gift card!
3500 Rigby Road, Miamisburg 937-865-9355
$20 bonus with every $100 gift card purchase
Gold Star
Multiple Locations
Purchase $25 worth of Gold Star Gift Cards purchased in-store or online, get $5 bonus card Buy $50 worth of Gift Cards, get two $5 Bonus Cards. Buy $100, get FOUR $5 Bonus Cards. Bonus cards valid Jan 1 – Feb 28, 2021
Jubie’s Creamery
471 W Dayton-Yellow Springs Road, Fairborn, OH
(937) 874-5391
Making shopping extra easy this year with $5 off a $25 gift card! Offer available through our drive thru until Dec. 20th.
Old Scratch Pizza
440 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Centerville, OH 45458 937-886-4513
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534 E. 5th Street, Oregon District 937-222-3100
Rusty Bucket
Receive a $10 Bonus Card with every $50 in gift cards purchased now through December 30th *Bonus cards are valid Jan 2 – Feb 28, 2021.
Skyline Chili
multiple locations
Buy $30 in Gift Cards, get a $5 Gift Certificate!
Submarine House Bar and Grill
multiple locations
Buy a $25 gift card get $5 sub bucks
Sunrise Cafe YS
259 Xenia Avenue Yellow Springs 937-767-7211
Buy a $50 card one place receive $10 card for Calypso Grill
2600 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Fairborn 937-426-7422
5611 Merily Way, Huber Heights 937-233-7427
1750 N Bechtle Ave, Springfield 937-322-6500
Purchase $25, receive a Blossom Card for your next visit. Purchase $50, receive a $10 bonus card. Purchase $100, receive a $20 bonus card for your next visit.
21 W Market St, Germantown 937-855-7759
Buy a gift card worth $25 or more & receive a free Growler jar!!
The Melting Pot
453 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Wash. Township 937- 567-8888
Buy a $100 in gift cards and receive $100 in bonus certificates special. Bonus certificates are four $25 certificates valid in 2021 for $25 off purchase. Gift cards must be purchased in store only.
Velvet Crush Unplugged At Good Time Charlie’s
David Garwood, lead singer of Velvet Crush, a popular party band in Dayton, Ohio, joins with talented guitarist/vocalist, Dave Hurley, (also a band member of Velvet Crush), and vocalist, Dana to offer acoustic music (two acoustic guitars) with three part harmonies. We may on occasion have a percussionist join in. Music includes popular songs from 80s, 90s, and today. We play mostly easy listening, pop, rock, with a few country tunes thrown in for fun.