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The Insiders Guide to Dayton’s FISH FRY Season 2018

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“The season has officially started.  Dayton has the best “Fish Fry Season” around! When you hear “fish fry”, the words “boring” or “dull” may come to mind.  Well let me tell you something…Dayton fish fries are nothing of the sort!  Traditionally, fish fries were held on Fridays during the season of Lent as we Catholics don’t eat meat on those days.  However, with the many Catholic parishes/schools and other organizations out there, and the amazing popularity of fish fries, they have expanded to Fridays outside of Lent as well.  At a typical fish fry, you will be able to experience an amazing evening full of fish, chips (fries really), beer, silent auctions, black jack, poker, and much more!  Plus, the cost you pay is significantly less than the amount you would spend on a night out on the town…and it supports a good cause!  So, regardless of whether you are Catholic or not, definitely make a point to “catch” at least one or more of these great fish fries this season.“

The above was the intro to MostMetro’s very first fish fry round up, originally put together by Jane Krebs and it keeps getting bigger every year.  Jane has moved on to other endeavors but we’ve kept up the tradition she started and you can find the area’s most comprehensive  FISH FRY FINDER HERE.  It’s always a work in progress, as many of the area church’s don’t have their their dates out yet ( St Peter, St. Paul, Holy Angles – talk to us!).  So keep checking back for additions, and if you know of one we’ve missed, drop us a comment below. 

St Christophers in Englewood is our #2 favorite

Food Adventures then gives you the in depth scoop on each and every fish fry.  How do we know?  Because we actually go to each one and support the causes each and every year!  NO ONE else breaks down 35 Dayton area fish frys like The Food Adventures Crew … join us…We list the TOP SEASONAL FISH FRYS, and also offer a short list of the BEST RESTAURANT FISH FRYS.

So, cast your nets, throw your bait in the water and see what you can catch this fish fry season !!  We even have scoop on a “Do it yourself Fish Fry”at home !  Read this article and be the smartest fish in your school.  Must be 21 to attend, except for the fish frys that are family events.

 

DAYTON’S TOP 20 FISH FRYS IN ORDER !!!

Our Lady of the Rosary’s desserts are one reason this fish fry is #1

—1. OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY FISH FRY: 
22 Notre Dame Ave.  Dayton
This is our old #1 fish fry.  It is still the best, but the secret is out and the lines are long.  Take advantage of their multiple dates and get there early.  $17 gets you endless food and beer, they don’t nickel and dime you here.  This is a fun, laid back party. All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot and regular), French fries, salad, cole slaw, cabbage and noodles, chocolate cake, apple crisp, popcorn, beer and soft drinks, and Chef Joseph, you get us with that peanut butter sheet cake every year.  Talk about religious experience… but the cat is out of the bag on this secret, so get there early or the line will be around the cafeteria, but the fish here is different from any other.

Jan 12, Feb 9

 

—2.ST CHRISTOPHERS FISH FRY: 
435 East National Road, Vandalia
$15 cost to enter and it is being run by the Corpus Christi Fryers, so you know it is gonna be great.  Jan 27

—3. ST MARY’S FISH FRY: 
310 Allen St, Dayton
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church.  There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games.  This is one of the best bangs for your buck.  The cost is $15 and you get fish dinner with all the trimmings.  You can buy beers on draft for about 50 cents.  And a dessert table for extra $1 per item will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.  Short lines, nice volunteers and a comfortable atmosphere.  Feb. 2

 

Holy Trinity’s fish Fry is amazing

—4. ST PETER’S FISH FRY: 

6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
Since it is on a Saturday, they offer fish, sausages, wings and much more.  There is enough food to line the length of a basketball court.  The entire gym is decked out from horse races to blackjack.  The price is about $15 and includes a couple of drink tickets.  The line is a big one so get there EARLY.  They usually surprise with one craft beer at the coolers.  Big crowd, good times.

 

—5. HOLY TRINITY FISH FRY: 
272 Bainbridge St, Dayton
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners.  They treat you like family.  At a cost of about $15 you get 3 beer tickets and food.  The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.  This is a real fun event that captures the essence of a fish fry.

 

Hasty Tasty Pancake House Fish Fry refills look like this !

—6. HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:
3509 Linden Ave, Dayton
$8.75 – endless fish fries and cole slaw offered 52 weeks a year on Fridays. What a deal!  The fish is delicious, light, huge pieces cooked with a perfect and crunch.  Excellent food, old school atmosphere, nuff said.

 

—7. YANKEE TRACE GOLF CLUB:
10000 Yankee St, Centerville
Endless fish, cole slaw and fries for $15 per person.  This goes every Friday through April 14th.  Delicious, filling, and ooohh is that fish good and crunchy!

 

—8. DAYTON RUGBY CLUB:
 IUE @ 1675 Woodman Dr, Dayton, OH 45432
 This ranking is because the fish is so good.  Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.  Big lines, but the fish is worth it.  It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish breading.  Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do.  A fun boisterous crowd.  Lots of food, laughs and fun. They  will be serving Warped Wing beer exclusively on  March 16.

Dayton Rugby Club’s Fish Fry is always PACKED!

—9. HOLY ANGELS FISH FRY: 
1322 Brown Street, Dayton
 Near the campus of U.D., this is one of the friendliest crews you can hang out with.  A nice hot batch of fish hits the pan every few minutes.  The line is not bad and the cafeteria area holds the eats and raffle prizes.  Check out the goods and the beer is CHEAP.  $15 bucks for a delicious fish fry cooked by the “Corpus Christi Fryers.”   Jan 13

 

St Mary’s Fish Fry is like being in your grandparents basement slinging beers

—10. INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY:
55 Williamsburg Ln, Centerville
Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish frys.  Also a BIG casino after party, with lots of folks. Big Ragu deals blackjack here from time to time, so please come, eat, drink and be merry.  This event gets extra points for decor and silent auction.  Typically the cost is about $18 and includes all you can eat fish, sides and soda pop.  Craft beer for sale too, the biggest selection of the fish frys.  March 9

 

—11. CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL’S ST PAT’S FEST FISH FRY: 
4524 Linden Ave.  Dayton
Everyone is Irish for this fish fry celebration.  $18 is admission gets you fish, sides and some draft beers. Held in the cafeteria and gymnasium, they have a baked fish option and lots of desserts.  A friendly staff, with tons of silent auction items, raffle prizes and of course some games of chance.  Will you hit the luck of the Irish at this party?(March 11th is a free family event). March 9

 

y

 

St Paul’s Fish Fry

—12. ST HELENS FISH FRY: 
605 Granville Pl, Dayton
Riverside’s best fish fry.   $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner.  They are also

 

having sausages and chicken !  This is a comfortable crowd, not too busy, and not too empty.  It is just right.  Lots of chances for casino games as well.

 

—13. ST PAULS CATHOLIC CHURCHFISH FRY: 
 1000 Wenger Rd, Englewood
(They already held their fish fry in December, catch them later this year, it is worthwhile).

 

Breaded goodness at Holy Angels Church

—14. GAMEDAY GRILL and PATIO:
7576 OH-48, Waynesville, OH
Popular spot at the edge of Waynesville/Centerville.  Their fish fry runs every Friday during lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter).  It is not all you can eat.  The price is $12.25 for Alaskan Pollock includes 2 big pieces, fries and slaw and extra filets are +$3 each. These guys know how to cook good food.  Try it for some of the best around.

 

 

—15. SLYDER’S FISH FRY: 
836 Watervliet Ave., Dayton
Every Friday, is the deal. Three pieces of walleye (not all you can eat) for $7.75. Served with fries and slaw.  This is the only time you will not get a burger here.

 

 

—16. OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY: 
249 Squirrel Rd, Dayton
Just $15 gets you into this fantastic party and fish fry.  The lines are not long and the food is good.  Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included! The Corpus Christi Fryers will be serving up some lovin spoonfuls.

 

Sit at the Bar for Yankee Trace’s fish Fry ..

—17. ST ANTHONY’s FISH FRY: 
830 Bowen St., Dayton
Great atmosphere, great fish.  Plenty of blackjack tables for afterwards fun.  Cost is $15 and includes fish dinner, sides and a couple beer tickets. The lines can get long, so get there early for this one.  Good Food, fun

 

crowd, nice big pieces of Alaskan pollok.

 

—18. ST ALBERT THE GREAT FISH FRY: 
3033 Far Hills Ave, Dayton
$20 at the door gets you a full, endless fish dinner.  In the past the Hecht family has run this fish fry.  Nice, big pieces of fish, breaded and cooked perfectly.  You should get a couple of beer tickets with admission as well.   Jan 19

 

—19. ST CHARLES FISH FRY:
4500 Ackerman Blvd. Kettering 
Kid friendly until 6pm.  This fish fry gives you a chance to bring the whole family from 4:30pm -6pm.  After that it goes to over 21.  Great fish, short lines and a lot of fun.  We suggest getting there about 5-530pm to get a good seat. Tickets are about $16 and include a couple of beer tickets, as well as fish, slaw and fries.

 

 

St Francis’ Fish fry in Bellbrook

—20.  ALTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FISH FRY: 
940 E David Rd, Kettering
The Dayton area’s largest fish fry, it is a sight to behold.  Located at Alter High School gym and cafeteria, it is a huge display of casino games and a gigantic amount of silent auction prizes.  $15 gets you all you want fish, sides and pop.  Beer and wine, is extra.  Promises to draw a big crowd. If you want the big, Grandaddy of them all event .. this is it … Say hi to the Big Ragu who will be dealing blackjack.  Feb 26

 

—21. CHAMINADE JULIENNE’S FISH FRY: 
505 South Ludlow Street, Dayton 
Cost is $20 at the door includes all the beer and food you want.  We love this all-inclusive approach and the fish is good so this one is the best up and coming fish fry.  Held in the school they get a great crowd, get there early as lines form!  March 24

 

St Charles Fish Fry

—22. ST LUKES FISH FRY: 
1440 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
This one is run by the school and is a delicious dinner, not all you can eat.  You are offered baked and fried fish, slaw and fries.  They have one of the biggest dessert selections we had run into.  Plenty of soda available.  This is a FAMILY fish fry, so no beer or alcohol is served.  Cost is about $10 for adults, $5 children 4-12, 3 and under free.  


—23. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY: 
4293 Powell Road, Huber Heights
The menu includes beverages, both fried and baked fish, sausage, chicken nuggets, beans, corn, macaroni and cheese, and all the fixings. The price is $14 for adults.  Feb 16, April 20, May 18

 

—24. ST. HENRY’S FISH FRY:
6696 Springboro Pike, Dayton
They have a live auction and Texas hold em too !  Price is about 16 bucks for the all you can eat typical fish dinner with fries and slaw.  Have fun and gamble.  The atmosphere is very relaxed and jovial at this fun fish fry.  Feb 9

 

 

St Albert the Great’s Fish Fry

—25. ST. FRANCIS of ASSISI‘s FISH FRY: 
6245 Wilmington Pike, Bellbrook
If you get there early, you will be having round 2 of food before most people have even gotten into line.  This is a big fish fry held in the cafeteria and the seating gets full.  The fish is filling and they offer some other sides besides just slaw and fries.

 

 

—26. CRACKER BARREL FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville,  and 7171 Miller Ln, Dayton
Fried Cod on Friday for $9.99.  Add the best sides in show business like the dumplings or okra and you’ve got a cure hitting your hunger.  They start serving at 11am and you can choose from Cod or Catfish.  We’re HOOKED ~

 

SEVEN MORE FISH FRYS  WE HAVE NOT TRIED YET….

Chaminade Jullienne’s steaming weeneys

THEY ARE ON OUR HIT LIST IN 2018:


—. K.J.’S RESTAURANT:
35 W Center St, Germantown
This Germantown restaurant features all you can eat farm raised catfish, 2 sides, for $8.99.  What a price!  The catfish is rumored to be nice and flaky and not “fishy.”  We can’t wait to check this one out !

 

—. WHOLE FOODS FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
1050 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Centerville 
Fish dinner by the pound.  Beer Battered Cod, every Friday in the hot plate area sold with french fries at $8.99 a pound.

 

 

—. BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL FISH FRY:

 

6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
$12 in advance gets you fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw and more!! Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop and more) also included.  Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!  Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.  Feb 17

 

Baked Fish option at Carroll High School

—. EINTRACHT SINGING SOCIETY FISH FRY: 
2707 Old Troy Pike, Dayton
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, and Cole Slaw.  Soda & draft beer included in the price so, for $14 a person, it is all you can eat night !  Jan 12, Feb 2, March 2, and May 4

 


—. HUBER HEIGHTS ROTARY FISH FRY: 
5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
$15 tickets include food and drink. There will be raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and Monte Carlo games. All funds raised benefit “Needy Family Christmas Program.”

 

—. PARTNERS FOR COMMUNITY LIVING FISH and CHIP FRY: 
5367 Fishburg Rd, Huber Heights
Highly acclaimed fish fry.  Tickets are $20 at the door, and the buzz is nothing but good about this event.  We can’t wait to sink our teeth into their fish!

 

 

Tom Patterson of Foremost Seafood can hellp you do a large or small fish fry yourself !

—.ST. BRIDGID FISH FRY:
312 Fairground Road, Xenia
Sounds like besides a great fish fry, they will have lots of casino games like Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo.  Tickets are $15 for this one.  March 2

 

One last thing to consider….an option of having your very own fish fry….


— FOREMOST SEAFOOD‘S “DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY”:  Here is an option you wont see anywhere else.  How about hosting your own fish fry party?  Foremost Seafood, off of Woodman Drive, sells everything you need to make sure you have the perfect party.  And you can pick which type of fish you want.  From Catfish, Walleye, Haddock, Perch, pollack, to tilapia and much more.  Call (937) 298-1986, ask for Tom to talk about your fish fry.  It will be the freshest fish fry you will ever taste, with the fish usually being about 3 days out of the water !

WHEWWWWWW !  That’s it !  Hook, line and sinker….

Always the most thorough scoop on Dayton eats, Food Adventures can be found on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Please “like” our page.

Alter HS FIsh Fry

St Helen Frish Fry

The fish from Incarnations Fish Fry

St Anthony’s Fish Fry

St Henry’s Fish Fry

St Luke’s Fish Fry has a baked option

Seven New Beers At Stone House Tavern Event

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Tickets are still left for THURSDAY JAN 25th’ “NEW BEERS EVE” Party, featuring 7 local breweries and their newest concoctions!  Yes, it is your chance to try the latest inventions from the area’s beer experts. The fun starts at 7pm

Today we get to share with you the beers and appetizers that will be on the tasting trays.

Food Adventures and Dayton Most Metro has partnered  with Stone House Tavern to bring you this one night only event.

“NEW BEER’S EVE” is an unprecedented chance to meet, listen and learn about the brewery owners, and hear their “NEW BEER RESOLUTIONS for 2018.”

ADMISSION:  Tickets are $30 pre-pay or $35 at the door

*****CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS*****

The event will take place at STONE HOUSE TAVERN in WAYNESVILLE, and we now have the list of beers and featured appetizers.

 

Includes 7 beer samples, appetizers, and a pint of your favorite beer at the end.

BEER 1 :
BLUEBERRY KOLSCH
FIFTH STREET BREWPUB, DAYTON, OHIO
DARREN LINK – BREWMASTER

 

BEER 2:
STRAWBERRY FARMHOUSE ALE
EUDORA BREWING COMPANY, KETTERING, OHIO
NEIL CHABUT, OWNER

BEER 3:
BUILDING 26 (BIERE DU GARDE, FRENCH FARMHOUSE ALE)
STAR CITY BREWING CO., MIAMISBURG, OHIO
JUSTING KOHNEN, OWNER

 

BEER 4:
JOHNNY LONGBOIL – A BARLEYWINE
LOCK 27 BREWING CO, CENTERVILLE and DAYTON, OHIO
STEVE BARNHART, OWNER

 

BEER 5:
TRINITY HAZE IPA – A NEW ENGLAND IPA
CROOKED HANDLE BREWING CO., SPRINGBORO, OHIO
KRISTY and JASON MOORE, OWNERS

 

BEER 6:
EXPERIMENTAL STOUT
HEAVIER THAN AIR BREWING COMPANY, CENTERVILLE, OHIO
NICK TARKANY, OWNER

 

 BEER 7:
SILVERBACK SNACK – CHOCOLATE BANANA STOUT
RIVERTOWN BREWING COMPANY, CINCINNATI, OHIO
JASON ROEPER, OWNER

 

*****APPETIZERS*****
CRAB CAKES
STUFFED PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS
STRAWBERRY GOAT CHEESE BRUSCHETTA
LUXARDO CHERRY AND ALMOND WHIPPED CREAM CHOCOLATE CUPS
(full cash bar and full menu will be available if you want to order at additional cost).

****To PURCHASE TICKETS CLICK HERE*** 

Join us at Stone House and make your New Beer’s Resolution at  this Food Adventure!

HERE’S THE SKINNY:
NEW BEERS EVE at STONE HOUSE TAVERN
258 South Main St, Waynesville, OH 45068

7pm THURSDAY JANUARY 25th
$30 in advance, $35 at the door
7 beer samples, 1 pint of your favorite, 4 appetizers.
(Gratuity not included)
Cash bar available for extra drink and food orders

 

 

 

 

2017: THE YEAR IN DAYTON FOOD

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Caddy’s on 741 served big burgers like this one

Dayton saw lots of restaurants come and go in 2017.  As is our tradition each year end, Food Adventures is here to talk about those eateries.   Some restaurants were old dinosaurs, others ended up being flash in the pans, and a couple were in between.  The Miami Valley’s vibrant food scene saw some exciting additions as well.

Without further delay we give you our annual review of Dayton movers, shakers, and vanishers in 2017, “THE YEAR IN DAYTON AREA FOOD.”

 

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON PLACES DAYTON LOST IN 2017:

*****CLOSED RESTAURANTS*****

937 GRILL and CAFE:
Barely opened, after Murray’s Place closed, 937 Grill quickly closed as soon as it got started. Rumors of land lord agreements and liquor license problems were mentioned but nothing ever confirmed.

AWESOME YOGURT: Naomi Anderson Fogel opened her yogurt shop in August of 2012, but by March of 2017 she decided that her life and the business had changed and it was time to shut down the Far Hills Ave business.

BAR DUMAINE:  Chef Anne Kearney went through a couple of service changes before finally shutting the doors in July of 2017.  Lucky for us she’s done a few pop up events so we can still enjoy her amazing cooking.

BOB EVANS – MORAINE:  In Oct the chain shuttered their Dorothy Lane location, near the Moraine Wal-Mart.

BRUNING’S WINE CELLAR:
After over 30 years as a clock store, this place added wines and beers. Unfortunately, this location near Fairfield Commons Mall, closed in January, 2017.

CADDY’S TAP HOUSE:

The Original Stroop Rd Location that started Dayton’s Brew Craze

It was in May 2017 when the restaurant abruptly closed, surprising many. The sister restaurant in Beavercreek near the Fairfield Commons Mall remains open.

CARAMELLA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN:
Very short lived Italian restaurant on Wilmington Pike in Kettering. It was formerly Murphys Pub, and Barleycorn’s before that. Elsa’s is debuting a new restaurant in this spot any day now.

THE DAYTON BEER COMPANY on DORTHY LANE:
The smaller, and original location of the Dayton Beer Company locations closed in 2017. This is the spot where the “birth” of the new wave of Breweries started. Owner Pete Hilgeman and his family, purchased a 2nd location near 2nd and Madison. The location is huge and allowed him more brewery area and infinitely more seating. (Editor’s Note- this location will soon open as OinkADoodleMoo)

Flan from El Rancho Grande

DISTRICT 6 DONUTS:
Opened by a former Dayton police officer, they stopped operations in December 2017. Long hours and time dedication constraints were cited by the owners for the reason they closed, after 7 short months in business.


EL RANCHO GRANDE – POE AVE
With some popping up and others closing, sometimes this is like a whack a mole game. Probably the location was a problem here, and the opted for a more visible venue.

HAWTHORNE GRILL / SWEET PRINCE DELI:
This upscale eatery on Stroop Rd had a short lived stint as Sweet Prince Deli, before closing for good.

 

KETTERING GRILL & CAFE:
The building that for years housed BBQ Hut has closed and became Merit Grill. Although they had an extensive menu, Kettering Grill and cafe never gathered a huge following. The food was good when we went there.

MAX n ERMA’s – FAIRFIELD COMMONS MALL:
Oh how the mighty have fallen. In the late 1970’s, Max n Erma’s was one of the most popular restaurants in town, now they have closed 2 sites in the past 2 years. Still holding on to the one on Miller Lane…

We will miss the Max N Erma’s Burgers too – and hope the Miller Lane location holds up.

MCCORMICK and SCHMICKS:
Abrupt close for this high end restaurant leaving a big vacancy at the Greene. The next closest one is in Cincinnati.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS:
so much good food has been enjoyed here over the past 100 years at Festivals and County Fairs. The memories and the tastes and smells will live on.

NIBBLES:
After 2 years, the announcement came that Nibbles was moving to a bigger location and re-branding under the name Watermark. No it didn’t really close, it morphed into something more!

PADDY’S IRISH PUB:
This former Beef O Bradys location in Centerville on State Route 48, just couldn’t get the traction they wanted. We loved the fish and chips, among other menu selections.

Paddys Irish Pub had some good fish sandwiches

PALMITAS TACO SHOP: This small business on 2nd Street in Miamisburg had a short run, but look for their food truck this spring.

STAN THE DONUT MAN- XENIA
After 30 years this spot closed not due to lack of business, but the owners citing “personal reasons.”

TACO LOCO closed, but not really.  They changed their name to “Tres Hermanos” and the menu is the same with new owners in the family. this restaurant has some of the cheapest and most authentic Mexican dishes in Dayton.

TGIFRIDAY’S – First Huber Heights, then the Dayton Mall location of this casual franchise chain claimed inability to  negotiate favorable leases as the reason for closing down these eateries in Sept 2017.

TIM HORTON’S – CENTERVILLE (725):
This Tim Hortons on 725 in Centerville ws one of the first to open in the Miami Valley. Times and competition had changed the landscape in 2017, and in May they closed the doors.

THE WRIGHT WING – on WILMINGTON PIKE: 
A deal was struck and the owners of this eatery on Wilmington Pike was taken over by new owners who immediately changed the name to “The Growler.”

 

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON PLACES DAYTON GAINED IN 2017:

*****NEW RESTAURANTS*****

416 GRILL:
This spot has a breakfast, lunch and late night menu for the crowds near their East Fifth St. location. Salad, soup of the day and more round out this menu with incredible photos on their webpage.

AMAR INDIA:
In Jan of 2017 they opened a  2nd location on Miller Lane, featuring a great buffet featuring soups, fresh baked nan, vegetarian and meat entrees, salad and chutneys.

AU BON PAIN:
Located in JFK Memorial Union hall on the campus of the University of Dayton, it is open to the public as well. French for “with good bread” this shop specializes in healthy sandwiches, soups and salads.

BARRY BAGELS:
In late summer 2017, Dayton received its first Barry Bagels restaurant in Kettering on Far Hills. This Toledo based, family owned restaurant will fill the void for many left by the Bagel Cafe that operated on the corner of Far Hills and Dorothy Lane. This place is fantastic featuring everything from “must eats” like Matza Ball Soup to Lox n Bagels.


THE BUCKIN DONKEY GRILL:

The Donut Burger at Buckin Donkey

Owner Sean McKown has brought back the popular restaurant in a new location (The old Murray’s Place). We expect his popular gumbos, pies, and inventive entrees to steal the hearts of a whole new following. This a Steelers bar with lots of friendly fans.

CANAL STREET DELI:
Familiar sandwiches you grew to love from the 5th Street Deli, reborn in a new location. Time for a quick bite downtown? Here is your new “go to.”


CARDBOARD CROWNS:
With over 800 games, this cafe is a fun place ti visit with friends or family. Games range from ages 3 and up, so all ages are welcome. Fro, role playing games, to board games, you are sure to find your favorite indulgence.

 

Chaska Grill was formerly India Oven

CHASKA GRILL:
This Miamisburg area Pakistani and Indian restaurant used to house India Oven. The food is amazing and the restaurant features a lunch buffet that is one of the area’s best.

CHICK FIL-A -KETTERING
Opened in the busy Town n Country Shopping Center, they somehow squeezed this into an already bustling series of streets and intersections. Good luck !

CORELIFE EATERY:
This chain out of Upstate New York focuses on a completely gluten free menu based on fresh vegetables. Salads, soup,homemade broths and several house made dressings. Quench your thirst with the health based spiced teas and juices.

DEG’S FLAME GRILLED CHICKEN:
A quick serve concept that serves healthy fresh baked chicken and fries opened this summer at The Greene.

DICKEY’S BARBEQUE PIT:
This Dallas, Texas based franchise opened their doors in Springboro in November and have already announced they are looking for additional area locations.  They smoke their meat onsite and alway offer free soft serve ice cream for dessert!

DOS LUNAS MEXICAN BAR & GRILL: 
This locally owned Mexican restaurant in Tipp City has an extensive menu with a variety of enchiladas, quesadillas, fajitas and burritos.

DOUBLE DEUCE TAVERN:
This restaurant moved to Brandt Pike in Huber Heights. Known for pizza and beer, the friendly staff will make you feel at home.

Dippin Chick Fil-A is now happening in Kettering.

THE DRAGON GRILL at CLUB EVOLUTION:
Inside the 120 N. Ludlow location, is now open for business. Nothing like good eats at a dance club.

DUCK DONUTS
This donut chain has a “top it yourself” theme, as well as pre made available donuts.  There are locations all over the USA and Dayton’s first taste is the spot on Brown Street.

EL RANCHO GRANDE – DOROTHY LANE
Another El Rancho in town… This one opens up in the old Applebees restaurant on Dorothy Lane. Look for solid choices as always from this chain.  The crunchy beef tacos are second to none.

 

Corelife Eatery at Cornerstone

EL RANCHO GRANDE – OLD TROY PIKE 
Yet another El Rancho restaurant opens.  This one goes into Huber Heights, and will feature Mexican beers and margaritas.  Try the Del Mar Trio dinner.  It is amazing.

FUYAO’s TASTE OF THE WORLD RESTAURANT:
What an idea, for a large corporation to open their cafeteria open to the public.  This restaurant in Moraine is 8,000 square feet and will feature international food.

GRANDPA JOE’S CANDY SHOP:
Behold a Nostalgic candy store in Miamisburg.  Get lost as a kid in this store.  We think it was named after the Grandpa in the Willy Wonka movie.  We hope you find a golden ticket.

HANNAH’S ON LUDLOW:

Heavier Than Air Brewing Company now open in Centerville

Did someone say they offer $2.50 raw oysters? Sounds like a delicious Food Adventure.  Beers too?  Lead the way and bring lemons and tobasco !

HEAVIER THAN AIR BREWING:
The Tarkany family is the latest to launch a brewery.  This one is the second one in Centerville, the first being Lock 27.  Located on 725 not far from Adventure Golf, they are currently working on an experimental Oatmeal Stout and and a Strawberry Farmhouse Ale.

THE HIGHLAND STAG:
Scottish fare and flare from owner Heather Davis and her family.  The food is wonderful and the beer selection is unique.  This is a fun atmosphere, and the servers are very attentive.

IHOP – HUBER HEIGHTS:  

Highland Stag- Scottish and Irish food in Springboro

The classic pancake chain dives into Huber Heights. Filled Pancakes and French Toasts, breakfast isn’t breakfast around here if you don’t have whipped cream on top !

LA GOTA:
East Monument Ave’s newest coffee shop.  Expect commuters and downtown workers to take advantage of this locale.

LOCK 27 – DOWNTOWN
In the new development across from the Dragon’s Stadium, Lock 27 has branched into a state of the art facility.  With his time tested quality beers and food, the formula for success should work in Dayton as well.  Lock 27 has a strong, loyal following in Centerville.

 

MS. PAM’S OLD DAYTON STYLE GOLDEN FRIED CHICKEN: They barely got the doors open on Wayne Ave before they got a “cease-and-desist” order from Fricker’s and had to abandon their original name –Ms. Pam’s Parkmoor Style Dixie Fried Chicken.  We haven’t had a chance to check this place out yet, but it’s on our list.

More IHOPS in the area…

McALISTER’s DELI – DAYTON MALL
New deli sandwich shoppe that features double deckers.  In the mood for some lunchmeat?  This chain is your place for some great club an d turkey sandwiches.

 

McKENZIE RIVER:
A Pizza based grill and pub near the Fairfield Commons Mall. It replaces the closed Max n Erma’s. This chain operates in 9 different states and brings a Tex-Mex feel to a menu filled with burgers, quesadillas, flat breads, pastas and pizzas.

 

MELT BAR AND GRILLED:

Melt was a part of 2017’s new restaurants in Beavercreek

The menu is over the top, rich and sinful.  It is all in the name of cheese.  Want the craziest grilled cheeses known to man?  Come to Melt, a Cleveland creation that is spreading across the mid-west,  throw your diet out the window and enjoy !

 

MERIT GRILL:
They took over the spot of the former Kettering Grill.  Merit Grill’s menu goes from steaks to pasta to orange chicken.  The kitchen has been getting great feedback.  Check this restaurant out.  It is one of Dayton’s sleepers.

 

MOD PIZZA:
Quick, personal, assembly line Artisan pizzas made in a couple of minutes.  Delicious fresh ingredients where you pick the sauces and toppings.   The new spot is located in the Cornerstone development.

 

MIKE’S NASHVILLE HOT:
Damn good stuff, but boy is  the Nashville hot sauce hot.  Go with a mild sauce, unless you are a hot sauce lover, because this chicken will light you up!  Get the banana pudding to seal the deal.  Find them at Austin Landing and on 48 in Centerville.

Nashville Hot Chicken launched in Centerville and Springboro

MR. BORO’S TAVERN:  
Opened in March 2017, this bar has a huge patio and friendly staff.  The pub food is promising and this looks to be a popular place in the future too.   Located on 741 in Springboro, it was formerly Bella Vino.

 

MUDLICK TAP HOUSE – DAYTON:
This restaurant decided to cease operations in Germantown and move to the busier area of E. Second Street in Downtown Dayton. Known for a nice draft beer selection, and a gourmet menu from an in-house chef, this place promises to be a splash hit.

 

OAKWOOD CANDY SHOPPE:
New candy shop in the heart of Oakwood.  We hope this place fits perfectly into the hustle and bustle of the shops on on Far Hills.

Popeyes is adding a new store !

POPEYE’S CHICKEN:
The newest spot just opened in Englewood. This eatery will bring spicy, Louisana Style fried chicken to the northern Dayton area. Years ago, Popeye’s closed their location on Wilmington Pike at the Kettering / Bellbrook border.

R TACO: 
This Brown Street eatery offers authentic street style tacos for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with margaritas. It is the first Ohio franchise for this Texas based company, run by the same folks that run Milano’s.

RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN:
For weeks the line was a wrap around mess to get into this place. They literally have chicken strips and 2 other menu items, and people come from all over to eat them up. We love being greeted with “Hot Chicken, Hot chicken, what combo you pickin’?”

S & S MEAT HOUSE:
Sommer and Smith’s Meat House is the new 3rd street BBQ spot. Lifelong Daytonians honing their verisons of Kansas City and Texas style barbecque. These guys have some serious rubs going on….

THE GYRO ROOM:
Brown Street got their own greek eatery this summer.  It’s a great place to grab a gyro and be sure and try their spanakopita and grape leaves, as well.

Raising Cane’s incredible chicken strips came to Dayton in 2017

TAQUERIA TRES HERMANOS:
The new Taco Loco is no frills. It is authentic Mexican food at its best. This means homemade taco sauces, soft corn tortillas, and specialty items like sopes and huaraches. Try it, you will love this place.

 

TIM HORTON’S – RIVERSIDE:
A Harshman Rd. location so you an get your fill of this Canadian companies pastries, eh ? Donuts, coffee or pastries, they make it right for you.

VICTOR’S TACO SHOP:
In July Huber Heights got the newest drive-thru by this locally owned chain, making it the area’s 4th  spot featuring  tacos, enchiladas, burritos.

WAT DA PHO:
A fun play on words to describe this casual Vietnamese eatery. Obviously the meal sized soups are the specialty, but look for other favorites like soft rolls as well. Located next to long standing cigar shop, The Wharf, it is not far from Wright State University or the Fairfield Commons Mall.

WATERMARK:
The larger, revamped restaurant with the chef/owner Maria Walusis of Nibbles Catering/Restaurant fame. Look for big successes from this charming eatery.

 

So here is a road map for 2017 Dayton Restaurants, where we have been and where we are going.

Merit Grill has great steaks

That was…The Year in Food.

Try all the new places in town and find some new favorites.  As always, please FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK HERE.

Happy New Year from THE BIG RAGU, CHEF HOUSE, and HUNGRY JAX – your Food Adventure Crew !

Check our weekly feature article out right here on Dayton Most Metro.

We leave no plate unturned !

Feel free to browse more photos below ….

 

 

 

Lock 27 and Dayton Brewing legend Steve Barnhart

Look who’s coming for breakfast

Engelwood getting a Popeyes

Taco Loco is No more

El Rancho Grande in Kettering

The old Dayton Beer Co Tasting room

Montgomery County Fairgrounds …

Uncertain future of the Fairgrounds buildings

Lox and Cream Cheese Bagels at Barry Bagels

Hummus salad at Corelife Eatery

Chaska Grill for lunch

Beavercreeks “Wat Da Pho”

Wine and painting…. now closed…

Frosted Flake French toast from Buckin Donkey

Whole tilapia fried at Taco Loco

Meat plate from Lock 27

 

7 Breweries to Showcase NEW BEERS at Stone House

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NEW BEERS EVE Jan 25th t Stone House Tavern

This one is for all you local beer lovers who stay in tune with the newest brewing trends in the Miami Valley.  It is a ONE NIGHT ONLY event that you just can’t miss.

The Food Adventure Crew has a big announcement after partnering up with Stone House Tavern for this latest beer event !

We proudly announce:
—-“NEW BEERS EVE”—-
THURSDAY NIGHT, JANUARY 25th, 2018 –
STONE HOUSE TAVERN and DAYTON MOST METRO team for a
FOOD ADVENTURE with 7 Local Breweries!
“Learn, what are these breweries’ NEW BEERS RESOLUTIONS?”

Here is the skinny on the “NEW BEERS EVE” EVENT:

WHEN: 7pm – 9:30pm, THURSDAY JANUARY 25th, 2018

WHAT: 7 beer samples, heavy appetizers, a pint of your favorite beer at the end.  There will also be door prizes, trivia and giveaways.

WHERE: STONE HOUSE TAVERN at 258 S. Main St. in Waynesville

Inside Stone House Tavern. heavy appetizers, 7 Beer tastings, & a pint of your favorite

WHY: Taste the areas newest beers. Hear the lowdown from each local brewery owner about their newest concoctions. Learn about their direction and philosophy for 2018 !

COST: $30 per person in advance , $35 at the door.
***PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE BY CLICKING HERE AT THIS LINK***

AFTER PARTY: 9:30pm – CLOSE – Cash bar and mingle with the brewers.

 

Crooked Handle will be on hand

THE 7 BREWERIES FEATURED on “NEW BEERS EVE”

CROOKED HANDLE (Springboro, Ohio):
Owned by former home brewers, Jason Moore and Jeff Pedro Jr, this is a fairly new establishment. However, since their opening on Christmas 2015, they have turned lots of heads with some great craft beers.

EUDORA BREWING CO (Kettering, Ohio):
Known as the only spot in Dayton where customers can brew and bottle their own beer, they also have some great choices on tap. Located on Wilmington Pike, this tap room has been open since 2013.  Neil Chabut, started as a homebrewer, and worked in a homebrew shop for about a year before launching the brewery.

Eudora will have a New Beer on tap

FIFTH ST BREWPUB (Dayton, Ohio) :
This pub is a co-op with the owners being Dayton area residents who bought “shares” of the establishment. Longtime brewmaster, Darren Link, has been churning out solid beer choices since the opening of the brewery in 2013.

HEAVIER THAN AIR BREWING (Centerville, Ohio):
The new kid on the block.  This spot on 725 opened in August 2017 and is eager to show Dayton its brews.  The Tarkany family owns the brewery, and we look forward to hearing about their direction in 2018.  We are expecting them to feature an experimental Stout for this “New Beers Eve” event.

Lock 27 Brewing is a Dayton favorite

LOCK 27 BREWING (Centerville, Ohio and Dayton, Ohio):
Owner Steve Barnhart left a job in corporate America to follow his passion of brewing beer. He has used his business savvy to expand his brewery, by building a state of the art, second location downtown. Lock 27 has been popular since it opened in June, 2013. We are excited to hear about new brews from this company that underlines the importance of quality beers.

RIVERTOWN BREWING (Cincinnati, Ohio):
Owner Jason Roeper is one of the state’s pioneers of the craft beer industry. Rivertown has two facilities, a Barrel House Restaurant in Monroe and a tasting room in Lockland, Ohio. Opened in 2009, Rivertown has been leading the beer craze ever since. We are excited to hear about their upcoming plans. Like many others, Jason started his passion home brewing at the ripe age of 21.

 

Star City joins the party on the 25th

STAR CITY BREWING (Miamisburg, Ohio):Owner Justin Kohnen is busy brewing for this upcoming “New Beers Eve.” He has decided to feature his newest brew, Biere de Garde, Building 26 at the event.  Star City opened in 2013, and is located at the former Peerless Mill Restaurant on South 2nd Street in Miamisburg. The facility has a warm atmosphere and is great for tasting beers or having a catered event.

 

What a rundown of great local breweries!  This is a nice variety with many new faces.  We look forward to tasting Dayton’s newest beers, and learning about the breweries plans for 2018.  If you are a beer fan, this is chance to meet the people who brew the local beers you love.  Come ask questions, meet the masters, and listen and learn all about the craft beer world.

Dan Apolito of Stone House Tavern and Rivertown Brewery’s Jason Roeper will be at the ONE NIGHT ONLY event..

 

Join us for “NEW BEERS EVE”… and find out what is your new beer’s resolution!

***SAVE $5 by PURCHASING  TICKETS ONLINE HERE ***

Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door!  See you January 25th at 7pm!

Don’t miss this one time only event!

THE SCOOP

Crooked Handle will be there !

We cant wait for Heavier than air Brewing Company

Eudora always pleases us with great beers

Whats New at Rivertown ?

Fifth Street BrewPub will tell us about their 2018 plans

Oh that 5th Street Brew Pub beer

Lock 27 is a favorite

Eudora for your enjoyment

Stone House Bar – a beer never tasted so good !

Eudora

Star City

Rivertown Brewing

Fifth Street Brewpub

New brewery !

Springboros finest

Centerville and Dayton legend

There will be trivia, door prizes and giveaways!

Rivertown at Stone House

A beer at Stone House Tavern

Outside Stone House Tavern in Wayensville

Christmas Calamari – Food Adventure’s Monthly Recipe

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Christmas Calamari – a tradition at Jax’s house

RECIPE OF THE MONTH:

This month’s Food Adventure recipe features our resident Italian mom, Jackie Scanlan, aka “Hungry Jax.”  This active foodie has a passion for food, is always hungry, and somehow always stays thin.  Speaking of skinny

HERE’S THE SKINNY on CHRISTMAS CALAMARI by Jax:

The Italian Christmas Eve tradition of “The Feast of the Seven Fishes” has always been one of my favorite meals of the year. I can remember my grandparents’ house filled with the fragrance of the sea. Fried smelts, broiled scallops, shrimp cocktail were just a few staples for that night. My favorite dish is what I’ve dubbed as Christmas Calamari, which is dish of linguini piled high with a chunky white wine marinara and fresh calamari. While you can use frozen calamari in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh. Dorothy Lane Market or Foremost Seafood will happily help you get the best calamari for this dish. I’ve always just used the rings, but the tentacles add a great amount of flavor as well. You can prep this sauce and freeze it ahead of time, then add the calamari that night. This sauce is also great without the calamari if you have some family that may not be fans of the sea!

Sauce is life !

Here is a definite MUST EAT you can fix at home !

Christmas Calamari

You’ll Need:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves chopped garlic
2 cans diced tomatoes (do not drain)
1 tsp crushed red pepper 9or more if you like it spicy)
1 tsp fresh ground black pepper (1/2 if you’re using finely ground)
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 cup chopped parsley (reserve about 1tbs to use for garnish)
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2lb calamari rings
zest of 1 lemon and Parmesan cheese for serving
1lb linguini

DIRECTIONS:
On medium heat in a medium saucepan, saute garlic in olive oil until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
Add in diced tomatoes (juice and all), red crushed pepper, black pepper and salt. Once tomatoes are starting to come to a low boil, lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, start the water to boil the pasta and follow the directions as noted on the package.
After simmering for 20 minutes, add the white wine and parsley. Continue to simmer until your pasta is done.
While draining your pasta, add the calamari to the sauce. They only take 3-5 minutes so do not overcook or else they become rubbery.

Ladle sauce on top of your pasta and garnish with lemon zest, parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Seasons Eatings! ~ Jax

 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your loved ones from the Food Adventure Crew.

Can’t get enough Food Adventures?  Follow Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu on Facebook.  Since 2008, we have been the local food blog with the most original content. We feature recipes, weekly articles on Dayton Most Metro, dinner events, charity events,  festival partnerships, a full website, TV spots, original photos on all social media outlets and so much more.

Secret Italian Recipe cooking at Jackies House !

Dining & A Show at the Racetrack

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Are you looking for something different to to for dinner?  Then the Food Adventures Crew has a tip for you.  How about dinner at the Dayton Raceway’s Skybox Restaurant at the Hollywood Casino while watching live horse racing at a table overlooking the track? The live racing schedule ends December 30th, so you have that much time to book an unforgettable night of fun and food.

Sitting at the Skybox Bar checking out the beers on tap…

Today, we spotlight an unsung restaurant that really doesn’t get any recognition, but has been putting out some decent food for a couple of years now.  It is the Skybox Restaurant at Hollywood Casino and Dayton Raceway.  It is a smaller restaurant, with a bar and booth area with seating capacity of about 60 people.  During live racing days, the restaurant spreads out serving tables in the racino area that overlook the track on different stairstep levels.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE SKYBOX RESTAURANT :

—A one of a kind experience in Dayton, this restaurant is  “Vegas Style” in decor, but during live horse race days, the dining room also includes the tables overlooking the horse race track on 3 levels.

— The races are Harness Racing, where the jockeys are behind the horse on a sled with wheels.  The horses have to trot and are not allowed to gallop.  Getting into the action is CHEAP !  You can bet as little as $2 on a race and you can use electronic betting machines near your table or place your bet at the nearby betting window with an employee.

Chicken Quesadilla

— Live Harness Racing season ends at Dayton Raceway on December 30, 2017 for a few months.
Mondays & Tuesdays: The first race begins at 2:15pm
Thursdays , Friays & Saturdays: The first race begins at 6:15pm
Here is the racing calendar for 2017.  Call 937-235-7840 for restaurant reservations overlooking the track with a spectacular view.

— Typical hours for the Skybox Restaurant on non-racing days are
Sunday thru Thursday 11AM-9PM and Friday & Saturday 11am – Midnight

December is Shrimp and Steak for $12.99

— The restaurant is casual American Pub Fare with a couple of local beers on tap, but mostly bottled beers in stock.

— Each month they have a dinner special of the month, December is Steak and Shrimp for $12.99

— Wednesday is trivia at 7pm with special appetizers and everyday they offer 4 domestic bottles in a bucket for $12 or a Birdie Bucket with 10 wings for $18.

All You Can Eat Ribs Dinner for $19.99 – was a past special.

Now you are at the party spot, but what are you gonna eat?  Well, luckily the Food Adventure Crew has been to the restaurant about 10 times and tried everything on the menu.  As always, over the couple years we have developed our “MUST EATS” at the Skybox Bar and Restaurant.. so here we go …

MUST EATS at the SKYBOX SPORTS BAR at HOLLYWOOD GAMING DAYTON:

— ALL YOU CAN EAT BABY BACK RIBS:
This is typically a monthly special, but anytime they offer the ribs on the menu, you have to grab them. Cooked to perfection, these ribs are slathered in a nice BBQ sauce and melt in your mouth. Fall off the bone? YES and right into your mouth. Ask for napkins, as it is how they say “finger lickin good.”

— THE PIZZA:
The pizza, especially the Margherita Pizza almost rivals local favorites like Spinozas and Old Scratch Pizza. Do you like Dewey’s Pizza? Then you will love the pizza at the Skybox.

— THE PRIME RIB DINNER:
This is sometimes a monthly special for $19.99. If you see it on the menu, you must grab one. The dinner is delicious and so are all of the sides offered. Great view, great steak and races? This is the life!

— CHICKEN QUESADILLA:
Want a huge appetizer that you can share? You wont go wrong with this giant, loaded quesadilla with cheese and veggies, even guacamole and sour cream are on the plate. Indulge! Enjoy!

 

— THE CHEESEBURGER:
Going simple and quick? This is the best bet and grab a homemade soup. Fresh ground chuck, and melted cheese make the sandwich. The condiments are typical and you build your own burger. Just a good solid, no frills option.

— HOMEMADE DAILY SOUPS:
We have had a couple of their soups, and the chefs really know what they are doing. These homemade creations from chili to shrimp and onion soup have been phenomenal. Always something inventive cooking up in the soup world at the Racino !

Deep Fried Pickle Chips !

— DEEP FRIED PICKLE CHIPS:
Sweet, sour and salty, this appetizer is a perfect one to share with the table. The other option is to grab some ranch dip and slay the basket yourself. Either way you win with good, tasty food, even if you lose your horse race bet.

 

There they are – the MUST EATS you shouldn’t miss at the Dayton Racino.
This is one of the most entertaining Food Adventures you will ever go on.

Not familiar with horse racing?

IT IS EASY to be a part of the action with these few tips.

HORSE RACING 101.

Here are a couple horse racing tips on us:

1) Bring a pen with you, buy a program, ask them to print out Dayton Raceway only, to save money. Use the pen to take notes and circle your favorite horses.  Sometimes betting on the name of the horse works just as good as looking at the stats/odds.

2) Bet $2 on each race, so if there are 10 races, you will only spend $20 on gambling the whole night, and that’s if you lose every race !  If your horse wins, you will be paid out based on the final odds of the horse after all bets were placed.  The higher the odds, the more cashola you will be paid!

3) Betting Options:
Bet WIN and your horse must win the race
Bet PLACE and your horse can come in 1st or 2nd and you win $$$
Bet SHOW and your horse can come in 1st, 2nd or 3rd and you win money.

4) Chances at big wins:
Bet EXACTA and you must pick 2 horses and they must come 1st and 2nd place in the exact order you pick.
Bet TRIFECTA and you must pick the horses that finish 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the exact order you name. You win some decent money if this happens, so it isn’t easy to do !

5) Get into the race by clapping and whistling and cheering your horse down the stretch…
Some of the more favorite shouts we have over heard are …..
“Come on Now 3, mon now !” (use any number you bet on)
“Tap that animal” a tongue in cheek urge to have the jockey tap the horses butt with the long stick to get him to run faster (we dont condone animal cruelty).
“Ghanan ha wa hooha” – while slapping your program on your knee (this is just what most people do, they yell an incoherent scream and go crazy, we are just trying to fit in and add to the excitement and volume.

6) Designate an empty beer cup to toss your tickets that are non-winners. We call this cup the bucket of broken dreams and empty promises.. it makes losing more bearable …

7) Watching the races from the table is great, but take about 6 minutes and during one race, walk outside and watch it from the track.  You will be about 10 yards from the horses and it gives you a feel for the speed and intensity of these races.  There is no other feeling like it.

Thanks for letting us into your electronic device this week.

Want more Food Adventures from around the Miami Valley? Then join the 7,400+ Dayton Foodies who are following us on Facebook by clicking here and “liking ” our page.

Enjoy our photos below.

“Natcho” – typical night out…

Onion and Shrimp Soup

Fish n Chips

Boneless Wings – Medium style sauce

Cheeseburger and Fries

Pizza with Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Onions, and Green Peppers

Margherita Pizza is the best choice

Babayback Ribs dinner

Overlooking the track

 

 

 

 

A Breath of International Air In a Local Dayton Art Gallery

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Where do you go for a taste of the international art world right here within the Dayton community? 

12 S Ludlow, next to the Fifth Third garage, there is an art gallery. Edward A. Dixon Gallery, to give it a name. It opened recently, the ribbon was cut just a few months ago on September 22nd, and like most Dayton art galleries you may find, it’s run by an art-loving long-time member of the Dayton community: Ed Dixon.

Ed’s been working in Dayton for years now, but it was more than love of art and Dayton that made him decide to open the Ludlow gallery; the Edward A. Dixon Gallery was opened with a purpose.

Any reader of DMM is more than likely familiar with Dayton’s unique community. It’s friendly, it’s collaborative, it’s deep, so on and so on — I’m sure you all can fill in your own adjectives. At Edward A. Dixon’s Gallery, it’s global.

It’s a pretty small shop, but the art within speaks to places far beyond its Dayton home, which is what makes Edward A. Dixon’s gallery a Dayton one of a kind; an entrance to Ed’s gallery is an entrance to a deeply diverse art experience. The gallery features a mix of paintings, sculptures, etchings, and more from a wide variety of eras in art. Ed hopes to freshen the Dayton art landscape with a breath of high-end local, regional, and international artwork. You may find oil paintings from France, abstract etchings from Germany, you may even find an acrylic-oil rendition of one of your favorite albums.

Or, if you come now, you may find the work of the Cuban painter Julio Antonio Pino Varens. Pino Varens is an abstract Colorist whose work often blends Afro-Cuban legends with Varens’ personal experiences.

Pino Varens continues to paint from home amidst both harsh creative and importation restrictions enforced upon artists by the Communist Party of Cuba. Pino Varens’ struggle for artistic freedom means less access to essential supplies as well, making it all the more difficult for Julio’s art to reach beyond Cuba.

The works ties in nicely with the featured “What Is Art” exhibit hanging on a wall nearby. The project addresses the boundaries and definitions debated over for ages when discussing the quality of an artist. Ed is proud to add the perspective of Pino Varens’ work which bursts with character and color

that warrants a trip to Ludlow St. in its own right.

The Edward A. Dixon Gallery is currently featuring four of Pino Varens’ works, each of which are currently for sale. The collection at the Edward A. Dixon Gallery is meant to build excitement for Pino Varens’ coming summer exhibit in the Fifth Third office , which will be showcasing Pino Varens’ most recent, on-going work.

If you don’t want to wait till then, or want a piece of the international community here in Dayton, stop by the Edward A. Dixon Gallery on Friday between 4-8p, Saturdays 12-4p, or by appointment.

How Dayton Got Its Wings

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How Wings Came to Dayton Ohio

With the passing a couple of weeks ago of a local man, Gerald “Jerry” Paprocki, so goes the quiet passing of a legend.  It is how Buffalo Chicken Wings made its way to the Miami Valley.  Today the Food Adventures Crew lets you in on a little secret.

 

Jerry Paprocki (right) with his son David

—THE SKINNY ON HOW DAYTON GOT ITS WINGS:
The year is 1981.  Mr. Paprocki and his family have just moved to Centerville from Rochester New York, via a transfer by the L.M. Berry Company.  As Jerry sought out a local watering hole he stumbled across Urban’s Suburban Restaurant, (now Kettering Elsa’s), on Marshall Rd.

After checking out the menu he noticed they didn’t have Buffalo wings on the menu.  He berated the owner Urban Goeke, and told him he has to start serving them. As the story goes, the next time he came in, Jerry brought the ingredients and went to the kitchen and showed the owners and the staff how to make chicken wings right there in the fryer.  The recipe is still used at Elsa’s to this day.

Elsa’s Kettering used to be called “URBAN’S SUBURBAN” in the 1980’s

So next time you are on a Food Adventure try Elsa’s wings, or any in the Dayton area, remember the legend of Jerry Paprocki, the man who brought Buffalo style wings to Dayton.  As he would say “honest to God.”  Jerry had eight kids, Jeanie, Mary Ellen, Steve, Tom, Matt, Bill, Jon and Dave, so you know he had to have some good food recipes.  On a side note, Jerry was also influential on bringing Genessee Beer to Dayton.  It was a beer from Jerry’s hometown of Rochester, New York.  He talked the Whipp Rd. Kroger Manager into carrying it and soon many other establishments followed suit.  So here’s a toast to Jerry with Genny Beer and wings, thank you !

The Anchor Bar, Buffalo NY

But where did Jerry get his Buffalo Wing Recipe?  From the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY of course !

 

—THE SKINNY ON THE ORIGINS OF BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN WINGS.
The Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York is largely accredited with inventing the hot wings we enjoy today in many sports bars. On March 4th, 1964, Dominic Bellissimo was tending bar and late that evening, a group of Dominic’s friends arrived at the bar with insatiable appetites. Dominic asked his mother, Teressa, to prepare something for his friends to eat.

The wings at The Anchor Bar resembles Elsa’s wings as you can see

Teressa had some chicken wings, a part of the chicken that usually went into the stock pot for soup. Teressa deep-fried them and flavored them with a secret sauce. The wings were an instant hit and it didn’t take long for people to flock to the bar to experience their new taste sensation. From that evening on, Buffalo Wings became a regular part of the menu at the Anchor Bar.

The phenomenon has spread across the globe. Although many have tried to duplicate the Buffalo wing, the closely guarded secret recipe is what makes Frank & Teressa’s the proclaimed “Best Wings in the World”. But Food Adventures has the recipe right here….

 

THE ORIGINAL BUFFALO STYLE WINGS RECIPE FROM ANCHOR BAR, in BUFFALO, NY.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 1/2 lbs. chicken wing pieces
  • 1/2 cup FRANK’S RedHot® Sauce
  • 1/3 cup butter,melted
  • Garlic Salt
  • Black Pepper

DIRECTIONS:
1) Sprinkle the chicken wings lightly with garlic salt and black pepper
2) Deep Fry the wings at 400 °F for 14 min. until crispy.
3) Combine Frank’s RedHot Sauce and butter in bowl.
4) Toss wings in sauce to coat completely. Serve with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.
Serves 6 people

Thanks for checking out this week’s feature and now you know how Dayton got its wings !

Jamaica Jerk wings from Elsa’s

Jerry brought Genessee Beer to Dayton too..

Buffalo wings at Elsa’s

The original recipe at Elsa’s was Urban Goeke’s old menu item

Maybe BBQ instead of hot ?

mini wings on the free bar

The original wings

The location today

Always indulge with bleu cheese and celery

Mild Wings

Thank you Jerry Paprocki !

 

 

Local Family Dealing with a Diagnosis

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Adam Arnold diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

The holiday season is a time of sharing love and spreading goodwill. For some families, it is a time of worry, as they deal with an unforseen crisis.

Today we share the story of a longtime Daytonian and a new struggle he is facing.

Adam Arnold is a well known local foodie.  That’s how we got to meet him over the past 7 years at various events, restaurant openings and festivals.  Talk about a guy who’s passion and life has revolved around food…..

Adam’s first job was at the Hamburger Wagon in Miamisburg and from there he worked off and on at Ron’s Pizza over the years.  As he found his lifelong love Marie in 1990, they met at Old Country Buffet and moved to Kettering.  Adam then worked at the iconic Kettering Village Inn and even took pizzas with him to the Miami Valley hospital the night his daughter was born.

Other food places he has worked at was a short order cook Imperial Bowling Lanes (Royal Z)

With his daughter at Godfathers Pizza

in Miamisburg to the Harbor House Restaurant in Bradenton Beach Florida.  In fact, his family has a history with restaurants, his grandma worked at The Trails Inn Club, and his daughter has worked at Voltzy’s.  Adam even owned his own restaurant, a spot called  Millie’s Phillies – Philly Cheesesteaks for a while.

His daughter is now 25, and the family is dealing with a new challenge brought on by a recent health scare.

Last week Adam was diagnosed with Acute Lymphobastic Leukemia the day before Thanksgiving.

It started out with Adam having a cold for a couple of weeks.  After taking medicine he noticed his jaw was swelling.  He went to the doctors and for 5 hours they did some tests.   After that, the family went to Steak n Shake and had lunch.  While there he received a call from the doctor.  He said

Adam in good spirits ready to recover

you need to check yourself into the emergency room right away.  They saw certain indicators in his bloodwork that led them to confirm that he had leukemia.  After being in the emergency room in Sycamore, he stayed for 2 days and was taken by ambulance to Ohio State University’s Medical Center.

They actually released Adam for a day so he could have a day at home for Thanksgiving week.

He is now staying in the James Cancer Center in Columbus and will be for at least the next month.  The reason is he will be receiving Chemo- therapy starting November 30th and it will last for a month.  They are putting a needle in his spine to get the medicine into his nervous system.

Adam says you live your life hearing about these things, but it is different to be confronted with it.

Adam at Spring Fling festival in Miamisburg

If you want to help this family, they have set up a Facebook Page to detail the situation.  It is the best source for info.  You can also go directly to their Go Fund Me page.

Consider donating this holiday season and having the Arnold family on your Christmas list.  Donations will be used for unforeseen transportation, medical and personal expenses that the family is incurring.

If you would find it in your heart to share this article on your Facebook page, the family would be grateful.

The family writes:
This is a very rare and aggressive cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells.  It will most likely involve chemotherapy, targeted drug treatments, and very possibly a bone marrow transplant.  We are of course hoping that Adam can be cured, but there are so many uncertainties with leukemia that we just have to take it a day at a time. This has already been a shocking and incredibly overwhelming journey emotionally, physically, and financially…especially

Adam Arnold

given this time around the holidays.   If you can, please consider donating to assist our family in making trips to be with Adam during his treatments, decrease the stress over medical/drug bills, and support Adam’s long battle with this devestating diagnosis. Nothing is too small and anything is so greatly appreciated!”

From the Food Adventures Crew….
We look forward to catching up with Adam after his treatments. We are hopeful to take him to DiSalvo’s Deli soon, a place Adam has yet to try.  Until then, always remember to be grateful for what you have, keep your friends and loved ones close and consider helping this family in need.

Thank you to Dayton Most Metro for letting us share this hometown story.

Adam with family

A Millies Philly cheesesteak back in the day

Adam was a restaurateur at one point owning a cheesesteak joint

Adam Arnold meets the Big Ragu at The Rock N Green tomato Festival

Hibachi up Close: Sake Japanese Steakhouse + WIN LUNCH !

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Fire it up at Sake

***COMMENT BELOW on why you love SAKE restaurant and win a lunch with the Food Adventure Crew at Sake !*** One winner will be chosen at random.

The chefs at Sake Restaurant have been tossing it, flipping it, and slicing things up for decades. The attraction here are the giant Hibachi grills that each seat 8 people. As the meal begins, so does the fun “show” of each chef demonstrating knife skills, sharpness of blade, and spatula talents. Welcome to Sake Japanese Steakhouse, my friends, a locally owned eatery, where each meal is an entertaining Food Adventure.

What is the secret to their success? They have outlasted all the other Japanese steakhouses in Dayton. They are the only game like it in town, except for another locally owned restaurant in Troy called “Sakai” which is also an excellent place to grab hibachi and sushi

Dipping Spider Roll into Yum yum sauce

meals.

Sake is not a cheap outing, but is perfect for a celebration or special treat. Let’s learn more….

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON SAKE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE and SUSHI BAR:

—There are 3 Dayton locations of this, one on Miller Lane, one by the Dayton Mall and another across the street from the Greene.

—Hours are strange at Sake during the week.  Mon – Fri they are open 10am -2pm but they close from 2pm -4pm as a break between lunch and dinner.  They open back up at 4 and serve dinner until 10pm, 11pm on Saturday.

—Each restaurant offers seating around the hibachi grill, seating in a dining room, or seating at the sushi bar.  The menu varies on where you sit, but you can pretty much ask for everything, no matter where you are located.  We suggest to always sit at the the Hibachi grill for a full experience.

—Each restaurant offers a full sushi menu.  Each location offers discounts on sushi during

Fresh Salmon Nigiri

weekdays.  For example the Greene location offers 50% off sushi rolls, and the Dayton mall location offers 30% off.  This is for sushi rolls only and does not include pieces of Nigiri (fish over rice) or Sashimi (fish slices alone).

—Always order sushi every visit.  They serve it before your hibachi meal as an appetizer.  Do it up in style, don’t skimp on this treat.  The sushi bar is good and needs to be taken advantage of.

—Every hibachi meal starts with the chef setting an oil flame that shoots 2 to 3 feet in the air.  The chef then launches into various knife and spatula tricks and the cooking show is underway.  Expect a light comedic atmosphere, but serious flavor!

Miso Soup to start the Food Adventure

—Each Hibachi Dinner is served with Miso Soup and a house salad with house dressing.   Hibachi dinners come in one meat choices or combinations of 2 or 3 meats. Meat choices include steak, shrimp, chicken, salmon, scallops, and lobster.

—All of the hibachi entrees are served with 2 sauces. One is a brown ginger sauce used for seafoods. The other is “Yum Yum” sauce, a creamy condiment loved by almost everyone, and great on rice and steak. Both sauces are delicious. Experiment with our own flavor combinations and push the envelope. Dip the seafood in the yum yum sauce you rebel, it is actually incredible !

Yum yum and Ginger Sauce

—Our biggest tip or suggestion: Whenever you can, come to Sake for lunch because the prices are almost half as cheap and the portions are pretty much the same.  Also, ALWAYS order the fried rice option with your meal, it is their specialty.

 

Speaking of specialties.. let’s get to the menu at Sake and see the best this kitchen has to offer.  We have been exploring this place for years, and have literally eaten everything on the menu from the hibachi salmon to the Alaskan roll.  In our dozens of trips, we have compiled our patented list of “must eats.”

 

MUST EATS at SAKE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE:

—KANI SALAD:
A secret “off the menu choice,” this is a Food Adventure tip. Kani salad is shredded imitation crab strips tossed in vinegar and spicy mayo. The result is a slightly creamy, delicious delicacy. Try it, and thank us later.

 

—THE SPIDER ROLL:
For some reason, Sake has the best Spider rolls in town. These sushi rolls are made of soft shell crab with shredded celery.

 

The Spider Rolls at Sake are the best ones in Dayton.

—SALMON NIGIRI:
Nice slices of fresh sushi Salmon over rice. Melt in your mouth good, dipped in soy sauce and wasabi.

 

—HIBACHI STEAK:
Steak overs seem to love this dinner/lunch entree choice. The steak is cooked to your liking rare to well done. It is cubed and tossed in teriyaki sauce. The aroma is amazing.

 

—SHRIMP, SCALLOPS and LOBSTER COMBO:
This is the ultimate of the combo choices and Big Ragu’s all time favorite.
The hiibachi scallops are so tender and delicious, and touched off with a spray of lemon juice. The

Hibachi Shrimp,Scallops, Lobster and fried rice

same for the lobster, which is buttery and so good it is indescribable. The shrimp is always a winner and loads up the plate as well. This is the best of best at Sake.

 

The House salad

These are our must eats, but know that your best combo is what you meats you love most from chicken, salmon, steak, shrimp, scallops and lobster. Find your favorites and get them on the hibachi grill. Another tip for hot sauce lovers: Ask for Sriracha sauce and spray your fried rice with it while it is on the hibachi. Ask the chef, they will do it up and the taste is one of a kind.

There you have it .. all the fire, food and fun from Sake Japanese steakhouses.  Check out all of the locations, as they each have their special charm.  Have fun with “egg roll” and the squirting kid toy as well as the “catch a shrimp in your pocket or food in your mouth” trick too.  Lots to experience in this fun Food Adventure.

DONT FORGET –

***COMMENT BELOW on why you love SAKE restaurant and win a lunch with the Food Adventure Crew at Sake !*** One winner will be chosen at random.

Are you a foodie like us?  Make sure you check back each week for our feature article on Dayton Most Metro.  Want more Dayton food photos ?  Then follow Food Adventures us on Facebook here 

Hibachi Shrimp and more

Lobster roll and more

Sake by the Greene

Fresh, raw Salmon

Spicy Salmon Roll

Hibachi Chef

Hibachi Scallops and Shrimp

Hibachi Vegetables

Edamame

A deep fried sushi roll

Steak and chicken cooking with veggies

Big Plate of Sushi

Nigiri Sushi

Sushi

Deep fried goodness

Specials at Dayton Mall

Hibachi Salmon and Shrimp

Hibachi Shrimp and Scallops

Tuna Roll

A Sushi Boat

Rainbow and Spider Roll

The pee pee trick !

Ready to rock n roll

flaming volcano onion

Tuna

Cooking Salmon and scallops

Big Ragu – you ordered this whole page?

Sauce chef

We are hungry

Sake and chopsticks are a must

Salmon Avocado Roll

Lobster Roll

Sushi – so good

Another take on Kani Salad

Sushi Rolls 50% off at The Greene Location

Before Hibachi get a plate of sushi

Miso hungry

Cucumber Sushi

Deep Fry me

starting the fried rice

Across from the Greene location

Sushi !

A sushi roll with tuna and salmon

 

Big plate of Sushi

Thanksgiving Tricks, Healthy Tips and Trivia!

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It is TURKEY TIME !

It’s turkey time again, so listen up foodies and party hosts.  We have some fun ideas for you to consider this year to make your Thanksgiving the best possible Food Adventure.

Now for the gobbleteegok…

TRICKS:

—A fresh turkey should be cooked in 1 to 2 days.  Frozen turkeys defrost in the fridge in 2-3 days.  If you need to thaw it faster, submerge it in cold water for 30 minutes per pound until defrosted.

—When baking a turkey, allow 15 minutes per pound to cook, or 4 minutes per pound if you deep fry

Carving up some turkey

—Your turkey is done when the inner thigh meat reaches a temperature of 165 degrees.

—DON’T carve your turkey right when it comes out of the oven, let it rest 30 minutes before you carve it.

—Have a tight budget? Get a whole chicken instead of a turkey and save some money.

—To get fluffy mashed potatoes, some people add baking soda !

Chef Houses Upside down cranberry cake

—Avoid a soggy pecan pie crust by layering the bottom of the crust with a some pecans.

—Have young kids?  Spell out your expectations for their behavior and bring them a compact activity like coloring or mazes.  This will help your kids stay still at the adult or kids table.  Let them play outside, supervised to burn off energy.  If the kid acts up. calmly remove them from the room and discipline them as not to disrupt others meal.

—Did you overcook your turkey? Place sliced turkey into a pan and cook 10 minutes at 300 degrees in an inch of broth, serve on the tray.  No one will know it was dry.

—Use coiled up aluminum foil under the turkey if you don’t have a rack for your roasting pan.

Bread Pudding

—Time constraint? Put store prepared food in a tupperware container and bring it.  Sinner…..

—Make mashed potatoes in the morning and keep in crock pot set to “warm”. Right before serving, toss in some butter and stir!  Also, add cream cheese and roasted garlic to your potatoes!

—Get kids involved by having them press butter into cookie cutter shapes to be served on plates.  It brings a fun look to the table.

—Glazing your turkey in the last 15 minutes of with Balsamic Vinaigrette gives a crispy skin on your turkey and amazing color.

—Side dishes that are served at room temp and can be done ahead of time. This leaves valuable oven/stove top space.

—Stuffing and au gratin potatoes are great done a day ahead and warmed up before dinner. This really helps save oven space considering they need to cook for an hour usually

 
—No time to brine your turkey?  Soak the turkey for 30 minutes in orange juice to get great results.

The Big Ragu’s 5 pieces of Pie year –  a record

—Hollow out a pumpkin for a serving bowl or an ice bucket for wine!

—Calculate the size of turkey you need by using the 1lb per guest rule.

—Heading to a host’s house? Bring them a short vase with fresh flowers.

—Alone for the Holidays, or don’t feel like cooking?  No worries ! DaytonMostMetro has a list of restaurants that are serving on Thanksgiving Day.  Click here to see the list.

 

The holiday is once a year so enjoy yourself… but for those who don’t want to over indulge, here are some tips:

Ready to bake

HEALTHY TIPS:

—Instead of serving cans of soft drink, offer fruit infused pitchers of water.  This will reduce the amount of empty calories your family is absorbing, while hydrating your relatives.

—For a guilt free day of eating, sign up for the Turkey Trot at Welcome Stadium at 8:45am Thanksgiving morning, and that piece of pie wont feel so bad. They have a 5k or Half Marathon for you freaks.

—Have some fall apples available on the dessert table as an option to pie.

Sweet Potato Casserole

—Switch Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes or Mashed Sweet Potatoes instead of regular potatoes to save on calories

—Use the leftover Turkey Bones and the neck.  Boil and simmer them to make a gelatinous Bone Broth with benefits for your digestive system or future soups.

—Feel free to indulge in proteins and animal fats, the sweets and processed foods is where weight gains happen

—Eat before the party to ensure you don’t arrive hungry and overeat.

—Pumpkin pie has fewer calories than most pies and if you don’t eat the crust, you aren’t doing so badly.

Turkey Leg

—Try serving grilled marinated asparagus and portabellas  with a creamy buttermilk dip with lots of raw veggies too. Marinate the asparagus and portabellas in orange juice, olive oil and garlic. Let sit over night in zip lock bags. Grill in the morning (season with salt of course). Serve with Belgium endive leaves, carrots, celery.

 

—Chef House loves having pickled carrots and zucchini too for ahead of time easy prep on Thanksgiving.  The dip is super easy: light sour cream and mayo, buttermilk, fresh parsley, Housemade chimichurri mix and apple cider vinegar.

 

—Try roasting beets with feta.  Roast the day before, take out hours before to come up to room temp. Toss with feta, lemon or lime juice and fresh herbs. You can add nuts as well.

 
TRIVIA:

—Thanksgiving is always the 4th Thursday in November.

—The age of the turkey that you are eating is usually between 14-20 weeks old.

—The largest turkey ever raised was 86 pounds and was the size of a large dog.

—Local farm Bowman and Landes in New Carlisle raise over 80,000 free range turkeys each year and has been in business since 1948.

Chef House – Ohio has a lot to offer

—Turkey can be substituted for Chicken in almost any recipe.

—In 1882 a wild turkey in Dayton cost $3 at the market, and the poorest Daytonians ate rabbit on Thanksgiving.  Other Dayton favorites purchased for Thanksgiving in 1882 were quarts of Kentucky bourbon for 60 cents, and mince meat pies made with 3 pounds of meat costing a quarter.

— On the West Coast of the USA, Dungeoness Crab is used instead of turkey

—Minnesota raises the most Turkeys in the U.S.

—Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving a National Holiday

—Pilgrims did not wear buckled hats.

We have a friends Thanksgiving early November

— In 1813 Ohio first set the 5th of May for a day of Thanksgiving. In Ohio in early times Thanksgiving was not always observed by the people, and not in November.

—Approximately 280 million turkeys are eaten every Thanksgiving.

—Stuffing is what you put inside the bird, and dressing it what you serve and cook outside the bird.

—The first Indian Tribe to celebrate with the pilgrims were the Wampanoag Tribe.  This first Thanksgiving lasted 3 days and took place in 1621.  They didn’t eat turkey, but had duck, deer and pigeon.

—Football was played on Thanksgiving starting with Yale and Princeton in 1876.

Juicy

—Thomas Jefferson thought Thanksgiving was a ridiculous idea for a holiday.

—Turkeys have been known to drop dead at the sound of passing airplanes.

—People eat more on average on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year.

The most important tip is to spend some quality time with family and friends this Thanksgiving.  Take time to realize your blessings and thank the people in your life that you are grateful for…

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from the Food Adventure’s Crew.  Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu are grateful for our weekly articles right here that have surpassed #400 recently.

Hungry Jax says Happy Thanksgiving from the DLM kitchen !

We are also grateful to our website followers, the people who attend our food events, charity relations, cooking classes, festivals and our followers on social media approaching 8,000 people.

 

Please “like” our Facebook Page by clicking here and getting more fun food photos from around the Miami Valley !  We are a food blog with a feature article right here on DaytonMostMetro.com each week!

Feel free to browse the gallery below for some more Thanksgiving related photos.

 

Slices of love

shrimp app

Chef House is thankful for cooking with fresh, local ingredients

Turkey breast

DLM Cooking class – Chef House is all smiles

Big Ragu is thankful

Turkey

Moist

A plate of heaven

Leftovers on a pie plate

Jax in her element at The Spicy Olive cooking class

 

Slabs of turkey

Basting a grilled turkey

Big Ragu’s iconic Thanksgiving plate is a work of art

The Last Waltz Live: A Community Celebration

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Thanksgiving Day, San Francisco. 

More than a dozen special guests joined The Band on stage for their farewell concert show: The Last Waltz. Guests included Ringo Starr, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and many more seminal legends of the 70’s rock scene.

To top it off, the prominent New York film director Martin Scorsese was hired to capture the concert on 35mm film before turning it into the documentary of the same name, The Last Waltz.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2yW372qWH8

The film starts with a black slate and white text reading: “PLAY THIS FILM LOUD”. The movie’s aged well. It captures the climax of an America wholly enamored by the raw talent and passion produced when their rock and roll stars align on stage, in their natural habitat.

November 19th, Dayton Ohio. 

More than forty years later, on a chilly Fall afternoon just a few days before Thanksgiving, Dayton’s own Yellow Cab bar stirs with thirty local Daytonians. Some of them have known each other for years, some are just meeting now. All are incredibly gifted, impassioned musicians; with one common cause.

In a few days, these local musicians will take the stage at the Dayton Art Institute to perform their very own Dayton rendition of The Last Waltz. Today was the last of their four Sunday rehearsals before the gig hits the stage; Jeff Opt invited me to the rehearsal to ask around.

Jeff Opt is the conductor behind Dayton’s own Waltz; he’s the one that brought the idea to life over six years ago. While Jeff’s a musician in his own right, he prefers to manage the business behind the stage instead; letting the musicians and their talent take them wherever it leads.

photo by Tom Gilliam.

“They’re here cause they love the music, they wanted to be a part of it. I don’t direct them, I let them —  they build it themselves. I got the speakers, I got the PA, but I just invited like ten people I knew, they dropped in, they invited friends they knew, you know it’s still very organic.”

You can tell. Dayton’s Last Waltz may find its roots from the artists who originally partook in The Band’s ‘78 concert, but its spirit of community — what really makes the show special — is manifested by Dayton’s unique and diverse community of talented artists.

The artists span all sorts of demographics, coming from a wide assortment of local Dayton bands; something Jeff hopes more people take away from the concert: “the thing I wish people would take more away from, is they should go see these people in their bands. Everyone up here plays their own music… these are all amazing musicians that any night of the week you can probably see at least one of them play for five bucks.”

I asked Jeff how closely they follow the setlist and performance of the original ‘76 show. While he paid respect to the film calling it “arguably the best concert film ever”, he’s not looking for a note for note copy — rather an attempt to capture the spirit of what made the original Waltz so special. “Everyone involved with it is into classic music, I mean this is the classical music of our era.”

I labeled it an homage, Jeff agreed but offered a much more fitting word: “We like to call it a celebration… again you were asking what theme runs through this, it’s community.”

Photo by Tom Gilliam

So come celebrate. Celebrate the artists that brought the show to life forty years past, celebrate the artists keeping it alive today. Celebrate music, celebrate Dayton music; celebrate the 70’s, celebrate the now.

Watch Such a Night: The Last Waltz Live in the Renaissance Auditorium at the Dayton Art Institute Wednesday November 22nd, as well as Friday night on the 24th. All proceeds from the show go towards both WYSO radio and the Dayton Art Institute, and at this time both shows are SOLD OUT.

The 2017 Vote for Dayton’s Best Chili is …

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Beer and Hot Dogs were available at the chili cook off

Dayton’s biggest chili cookoff was Friday night and we have the loving spoonfuls. A charity that helps disabled Miami Valley residents was given an annual budget boost from the 31st annual event.

There were 17 restaurants and amateur cooks vying for the title of BEST CHILI at the AMBUCS Chili Cookoff this weekend, and the results are in. For the first time ever, the people’s choice top 3 matched The Food Adventures top 3 picks. THE WINNERS ARE…..

 

The winner – Buffalo Chicken Chili from Christophers

#1 CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT’S BUFFALO CHICKEN CHILI:
Delicious, melt in your mouth flavors of simmered chicken and the heat of a buffalo sauce, all in a creamy chili. We topped our bowl with a light sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. This recipe was a risk going off the beaten path of traditional chili’s but in this case, it paid off. Chef John always takes time to talk to the Food Adventures Crew, and we congratulate him and Christopher’s on the big win.

 

2nd Place – The sweet chili from The Brunch Club

#2 THE BRUNCH CLUB’S SWEET CHILI:
Big Ragu was loving the cute servers in Bengal’s attire, but the chili stole Hungry Jax’s stomach. An interesting twist on a traditional chili, this one was sweet and thinner than most chilis. The result was a chili that really grows on you with each bite. We found ourselves with raised eyebrows craving more of this sweet stuff. A definite stand out in our book, and second place in the competition.

 

 

Meadowlark’s Chili with Pita chips was 3rd place out of 17 chili entries !

#3 MEADOWLARK’S CHILI with PITA CHIPS:
A traditional chili served with pita chips made in house, and a dab of sour cream.   We also sprinkled a bit of shredded provolone cheese on top.  This was fantastic. The flavor was so good and it was obvious this was a top contender. Perfectly seasoned and simmering, the chili was one of the best we tasted.  In the end, we put them in 3rd place in this tough field of amazing chili.

 

Other contenders:

The Food Adventure crew wanted to give and Honorable Mention to a couple of restaurants that we feel, rounded out the top 5.  They were #4 LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE and #5 SLYDER’s who were close to the top 3.  Both versions were meaty chili’s with beans and the traditional Tex-Mex type hearty chili that Americans have grown to love.

Rita(left) and a friend from Longhorn Steakhouse, keeping Bob Medlin’s memory alive.

Please understand, every single booth had some good chili.  The trick was to have your chili be  absolutely incredible to stand out in a field of good cooks.  The competition was intense, the meat, sauce and beans were flying.  Hot sauces, cheeses, jalapenos, crackers, draft beer and more made for a filling night.

Other Restaurants and Amateur Cooks that participated were in alphabetical order:

BILL’S AMAZING CHILI:
A hearty chili with slices of beef. This was a dark and flavorful chili and our first taste of the day.

BRIXX ICE CO:
Always a contender, they had a delicious shredded chicken chili, that was almost like a soup.

Buckin Donkey Grill is back and serving up great food !

BUCKIN DONKEY GRILL:
We are so excited this awesome restaurant is back. Their chili entry was a tomato based chili with lots of huge sausage chunks.

BULLWINKLES:
A meaty chili with good flavor, this restaurant knows what they are doing. This one is great too, like all of their menu soups.

CLASHMORE MIKE’S:
A Tex-Mex classic chili with beans and the traditional sauce. Good stuff and one of the “prettiest” chilis in the bowl.

DARK HORSE TAVERN:
A good traditional chili with beans, meat and great flavor. We are so glad this restaurant is back again on Byers Rd.

EATON KENNEDY’S CHILI:
Another chili with beans in the traditional sense. They served it with tortila chips,and it was good stuff, from a local cook.

EL RANCHO GRANDE:
A Mexican twist, this chili had a swirl design in it from lots of cheddar cheese. The meat was grind down a lot and the chili had a yellow tin to it. We think it was from spices and cheeses.

FLANNIGAN’S:
A different dark and meaty chili. This was a gamble as the chili had a a very rich deep flavor. Points for uniqueness on this one.

GEORGE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT:

Big Ragu with some attendees raising money for charity

A solid traditional looking chili, with beans. It had some Greek seasoning that made the chili taste unique. The entry was good and ingenious that they passed out their restaurant menus to the tables beforehand.

HARRIGAN’S:
This was a thinner chili and almost like a soup. The flavor was good and the meat was ground down very well. Many of you know that Harrigan’s is know fro their beefy burgers.. so you know the beef chili tasted good.

All ages loved the event

LOS REYES MEXICAN RESTAURANT:
Almost like a “Dayton dip” this thick chorizo chili was very very cheese filled. The result was a yellow colored chili with chunks of meat. It was mild tasting and very different than other entries.

The decision to pick the best entries was a daunting one. All of the chilis were tasty, and went for a great cause. Please visit these fine restaurants that give back to the community. It was a great time and benefited handicapped kids in this area.

Casino games and other fun contests filled the Colosseum.

The night also was filled with BEER, WINE and SOFT DRINKS.  Did we mention HOT DOGS?  Oh boy the AMBUCS charity hot dog booth was serving up some good ones.  We indulged in all the drinks and food we could until we were stuffed.

Food Adventurer Jax gives the event a thumbs up !

The event benefits AMBUCS of Dayton. It is a charity that helps handicapped residents of the Miami Valley lead a more mobile life. Special walkers. bikes and mobile devices are donated to the families of those children and adults in need. The effect is a priceless improvement for their quality of life.

Next year’s chili cookoff will be FRIDAY NOVEMBER 16th, 2018:
Do you want to enter your chili? We are also looking for blackjack dealers and volunteers for next year. To get involved, go to BESTCHILI.ORG or call Paul Jankovich at 937-438-0345

The champ – Chef John from Christopher’s in Kettering

 

 

Halfway through the night you have people digesting !

Bullwinkles Chili

El Rancho Grande

Gambling Area

Overlooking the event before it opens

Bills Amazing Chili entry

Christopher’s Vegetarian Chili entry

Harrigan’s chili

Beer truck – endless drats

The Hot Dog Lady

Slyders serving up

Flannagans Chili

El Rancho Grande Chili

Bullwinkle Booth

Volunteers helped make the event a success

Los Reyes Chili

George’s Restaurant

Clashmore Mikes Chili

YES ! THEY ARE BACK !

Bucking Donkey Grill

Brixx Ice Co.

Dark Horse Tavern

Testing each and every chili

Critic says – that one was just ok

Games of Chance

Serving up Bills amazing chili

Longhorn Steakhouse entry

Slyders Chili

Flannigans

Eaton Kennedy’s Chili

 

 

The Top 16 Spicy Foods of Dayton

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The Big Ragu is sweating again, find out why below…

Dayton’s vibrant food scene is not short on heat.  If you are looking for HOT, you can find it in the Miami Valley.  “Burn Baby Burn” like a Disco Inferno you will, you just have to know where to look.

Did you know Hot Food boosts your metabolism?  It also clears you sinuses, helps ulcers and can lower bad cholesterol.

“See people rocking — Hear people chanting — Feeling hot hot hot” –Buster Poindexter

Chef House (Dayton’s Original Sriracha Mama), Hungry Jax (Utica Grind Red Pepper and Cayenne Guru) and the The Big Ragu (a wing connoisseur) are Dayton’s Food Adventure Crew and have compiled their list of the spiciest dishes in Dayton.

These are not the sweet sixteen, they are the HEAT 16 – Dayton’s best spicy foods.

Duck Curry from Thai 9

These foods are not only incredibly spicy, they are delicious as well.  So, we went not only for fire, but for good flavor too.

Without further delay, let’s see the list of these “MUST EATS.”

 

THE TOP 16 SPICY FOODS OF DAYTON: “THE HEAT SIXTEEN”

—1) THAI 9’s DUCK CURRY
This is Chef House’s favorite. Order it at the highest hot level and be prepared for scorching, exotic flavors.  Sliced duck meat, with vegetables in a red curry sauce. Coconut milk, pineapples, tomatoes, lime leaves, red and green peppers seal the deal.  Amazing how a creamy sauce can get so hot.  Is your mouth on fire?   It is ok, they have plenty of tea and local beers to put out the heat.

 

Mike’s Nashville Hot Flavored Chicken

—2) MIKE’S NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN – NASHVILLE HOT WHOLE WINGS:
These wings don’t fool around. Every knee must bow, and every brow must sweat. The thing is, even though it is so hot, you can’t help trying to risk another insane bite. This is not for the timid. If you like crazy hot, with good flavor, this is for you.  This is southern fried comfort food at its most spicy.

 

—3) MONGOLIAN CHICKEN, EXTRA SPICY at NORTH CHINA:
A dish you must order by special request, and you must order it extra spicy. Also, ask for a side of Chinese Chili Paste and Hot Cayenne Powder. This dish is more delicious than super hot, but if you doctor it up with the hot sauce they provide, you will sweating seeds at the table, and smiling the whole time.  Easily makes the list, as this dish is a classic.

Spicy Mongolian Chicken from North China

 

—4) VINDALOO FISH at AMAR INDIA RESTAURANT:
This is a delicious dish. Light up your day by getting it at level 5 or ask them for the hottest level. The only thing that will put out the fire is the white basmati rice and the Naan Bread which are both fantastic accompaniments.

 

—5) “I’M ON FIRE AND READY TO DIE” WINGS at ELSA’S RESTAURANTS:
These wings are so good. They are not breaded, but deep-fried to perfection before the hot sauce is slathered on top. The result is an eye-popping experience, with plenty of napkins. A couple of Bad Juans may help you, but we suggest a couple of Corona Lights at your side to wash things down.  We don’t think you will be cheering on your favorite sports teams.  You won’t be able to talk since your mouth will be full of hot wings, or something dousing the heat.  Oh by the way, you have to sign and waiver and NO refunds!

Elsa’s 911 – Im on Fire Wings

—6) THE EXTRA HOT CHICKEN TENDERS at BARGOS:
Bargo’s will catch you by surprise. Underground foodies know this place is known for their extra crazy hot sauces. It is a place where mild means medium, medium is hot, and hot is crazy hot. So you can imagine what extra hot is. These breaded tenders are tossed in a hot sauce, then rolled in crushed red pepper. What kind of crazy cook is back in that kitchen? Hot food lovers can’t get enough of the tenders but keep the tall draft beers coming. Wowsa, they are spicy!

 

—7) FISH WITH HOT THAI CHILI SAUCE at THAI9:

The Big Ragu is crazy for Fish with Thai Chili Sauce !

An absolutely huge piece of Walleye is served (you get choice of Tilapia or Walleye, but we always go with the walleye). The fish is deep-fried and topped with red chili paste, Order it at the hottest level. The fish is amazing and the sauce makes the whole dish. Served with rice, the portion is so big, we bet you get a take home box. But the walleye is so good, you might finish the whole, big thing.

 

—8) FRICKIN EX-SCREAM KILLER WINGS at FRICKERS:
The local king of wings has an entry to the list.  Breaded and ready to roll, you have to order these babies WELL DONE.  The result is crispy hot wings in an extreme sauce.  Dip them in ranch for some relief, but resistance is futile.  You may have met your frickin match on the hot scale.

Frickin Ex-Scream Chicken Wings – goodnight Irene !

—9) SPICY CHICKEN AND PORK SATE SOUP at LITTLE SAIGON:
This unsung restaurant has some of the best food in town.  This is a meal sized soup.  Choose rice or egg noodles, and choose pork, shrimp, chicken or a combo of meats.  The Sate soup means spicy and you must ask for hot sauce as well, so they bring out the squirt bottle of Asian Vietnamese Sriracha.  Drizzle that on top of soup and add some hot chili paste that is sitting on the table in a clear plastic container.  Your nose will be running as the steamy soup clears your sinuses.  Drink plenty of cold ice water provided, that will help keep things in check, as will their Oolong tea.  This meal is perfect on a cold day.  Many of us believe it has special immunity boosting and healing powers as well.  Try it and tell us what you think.

Sate Soup from Little Saigon !

—10) THE RED SALSA at TAQUERIA GARCIA MOBIL:
Located in Huber Heights near Harshman and Burkhardt by a Shell Gas Station, or on E. Third St., this mobile food truck is gaining a following.  The cup of red hot salsa is a hot, yet delicious addition to any taco, huraches, sopes and Tacos Al Pastore.  Try the red hot salsa .. it will slap your butt and call you Sally.

 

Hinder’s Ass Kickin Wings

—11) ASS KICKER WINGS at HINDERS SPORTS BAR & GRILL:
There is a cult following for this place of heat and eat in Tipp City.  We love sports bar with beer and wings.  Who doesn’t love hot spicy food and cold beer?  In the land of delicious wings, the Ass Kickers are the hottest option at Hinder’s, who many say are the best wings in Dayton. See for yourself and wear your big girl pants when you order this sauce.  Napkins … Ready !

 

—12) CHICKEN PAD THAI at HOUSE OF THAI:
Chef Dang, a well schooled owner in Beavercreek has gained a small following in the area, but still

House of Thai has incredible, Pad Thai – order it EXTRA spicy !

this restaurant is relatively unknown.  They pride themselves  with no pre-packaged sauces, no MSGs, and no pre-chopped, frozen vegetables. Every single meal is carefully prepared from scratch in traditional Thailand customs.  We have had pad Thai many places, from Vegas to California and New York.  This is some of the best we have ever eaten.  Get it at the hottest level and light your pants on fire.

 

—13) EL TORO’S SPICY HOUSE TABLE SALSA (SERVED BY REQUEST):
Spicy salsa with seeds floating in it is the hallmark of this restaurant.  The key is, you have to request the spicy salsa, which they bring out separately.  The dipping of tortilla chips immediately becomes more intense.  The salsa has slightly brown tint compared to the traditional red one.  And it is much spicier.  Sprinkle the sauce over enchiladas, tacos, burritos and more for a full appreciation of this hot sauce.  An absolutely delicious way to kick you meal up a notch is to drizzle the salsa over your dinner plate, for shizzle.

 

A Cheeseburger with Hot sauce and sweet heat mustard at Voltzy’s

—14) SMOKED WINGS WITH HOT HABENERO SAUCE at LOCK 27:
What goes great with the great beers like Mouth Breather at lock 27? The answer is the smoked chicken wings. Hot food lovers love these wings because there is an option for Hot Habenero and the plate is served with an in-house sriracha sauce.  Foodies Unite, these wings are sure to be a favorite of your taste buds.

 

—15) VOLTZYS CHEESEBURGER WITH SWEET HEAT MUSTARD and HOT SAUCE:
You have to ask the hamburger wizard for this “off the menu” specialty. But, he always lights up with a smile when people ask him to add hot sauce. “You’ll wake up singing touch me in the morning.” Voltzy always says.  His burgers are hearty sliders, yet kind of small.  If you go hot, get his 10 cheeseburgers for $12 deal and make them all hot sauced.  You can split it with a friend or take home half of them.  It’s the hot way to go in Voltzy’s land of steamed onions, cheese, fresh ground chuck and insults.

 

The sports peppers on this Chicago dog are gonna get you , but good !

—16) THE CHICAGO DOG from CHICAGO GYROS and DOGS:
Holy hot peppers Batman.  Mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes and those damn hot sports peppers! Served whole on the dog, this will light you up like Christmas!  Enjoy the heat on a hearty bun, with a delicious hot dog.  It is good, and so hot, but you cannot stop eating it.   A power packed dog full of flavor.  This is the kind of thing that makes Dayton food choices so great.

Bargo’s Chicken Tenders are Hotter than Hell

There you have it, the HEAT SIXTEEN !  The best of Spicy Dayton as picked by the Food Adventures Crew.

Honorable mention to the SPICY BROCCOLI side at MEADOWLARK !  Chef Wiley will sometimes offer this as a side to one of her fabulous dishes.  If you see it , get it!

Food Adventures is a local food blog that has feature articles every week on Dayton Most Metro. We have been a favorite of Dayton foodies since 2008, writing over 400 feature food stories for this website. Follow FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK by clicking here and join the 7500 Miami Valley residents who love local eats!

You’re gonna love trying these hot favorites, and if you’re not a crazy heat fan, try the foods in their mild version. Good food is good food, and we know you will enjoy those dishes if they have a little kick, instead of a blazing fire.

Red Hot Sauce from Taqueria Garcia Mobil

Mongolian chicken from North China

Pork and Chicken Sate from Little Saigon

Lock 27 smoked Habanero Wings

Cheeseburger with hot sauce from Voltzy;s

If you go to Mike’s Nashville Hot Chicken and get the Nashville Hot Flavor..then you better get a fire extinguisher

Vindaloo Fish from Amar India – order it Very Spicy if you love hot …

 

 

CoreLife Eatery Opens at Cornerstone

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A unique concept has come to town

Talk about a lean, mean flavor machine!  Cornerstone’s newest restaurant is a healthy focused, new chain out of New York.   CoreLife Eatery, founded just 2 years ago, is the brainchild of a group of friends in Syracuse.  It is getting some great buzz around town with a couple of soft opening events that have impressed local foodies.

Food Adventures was able to get a sneak peek into the restaurant on 4 separate visits, and talked with the friendly staff and managers.  They explained the philosophy of fresh, healthy, food that makes delicious combinations.  They pride themselves on not using genetically modified vegetables, and anti-biotic free chicken.

Meet Tammy, Head Coach of the Eatery !

The main staple of the menu is a salad bowl, where you pick a protein and then choose from dozens of premium toppings.  Choices are as simple as carrots and tomatoes, to the gourmet edamame or shredded roast beets.   The menu at CoreLife features suggested combinations, or you can build your own masterpiece.  You can even add broth to make your meal a soup.

We were pleasantly surprised that healthy could taste so good !

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on CORELIFE EATERY.

— CoreLife is located at 5201 Cornerstone North Blvd in Centerville, and opens officially on November 10th, but is hosting a soft opening Nov.9th where you choose what you pay and all proceeds go to Hannah’s Treasure Chest !  Hours are 11am – 9pm every day.

—The Cornerstone location is the 22nd store in the CoreLife restaurant chain, which ranges from New York to Michigan, Utah and Pennsylvania.  Look for another one to open in Miamisburg next year !

— The unique business plan features 3 menu items:  Salad Bowls, Bone Broths, Spiced Iced Teas

— Salad sizes are small, medium and large.  You choose a protein tuna, chicken or tofu  (or go vegan) and then pick your salad and veggie toppings (choose from almost 40 items).  Small salads are very filling for most people.  The regular and regular double protein are for bigger appetites.

— Holistic Bone Broths featured are Beef Broth and Chicken Broth.  There is also a Vegetable Broth.  All are found to reduce inflammation and have medicinal benefits to the body, including the digestive and immune system.  You can use the broth to make your own soup, but we prefer drinking it in a coffee like cup.  It will help curb hunger.

Inside Corelife

— They have about 9 spice infused iced tea drinks.  Amazing flavors with various health benefits from each tea.

—Did we mention they make their dressings from scratch too?  Yeah, there are at least 10 of them and they are one of a kind.

Now after trying various menu items on multiple trips, we have come up with our patented “Must Eats.”

 

MUST EATS at CORELIFE EATERY:

Spicy Chicken with Ancient Grains Bowl

SPICY CHICKEN and ANCIENT GRAINS BOWL:
It starts with quinoa, shredded kale and arugula with tomatoes, corn and chickpeas. Broccoli and shredded white cheddar finish it out.  We added roast beets, edamame, carrots, and cucumbers, and had it tossed in Lime Cilantro Jalapeno Vinaigrette Dressing.

 

TUNA POKE GRAIN BOWL:
Seared, very rare, ahi style tuna covers this delicious mix of kale, shredded cabbage, cucumber, quinoa, carrots, scallions, ginger, edamame, avocado, sesame seeds, and almonds. The dressing is a Miso Sesame Ginger Dressing.

Tuna Poke Grain Bowl

 

CUP OF CHICKEN BONE BROTH:
Simmered all day, this chicken broth is mild and scorching hot. Sip it like coffee and feel the warmth touch your toes. Bone broth is thought to have many health benefits including appetite suppressant, immune boost, and digestive health.

 

CUP OF BEEF BONE BROTH:
A hot, steaming cup of this broth in a coffee cup to go. Sip it as it cools and feel the effects of the warm broth as it reaches your tummy. The feeling of your body healing is a good one. Bone broth like this is said to have all kinds of health benefits including stopping inflammation, helping joint pain and replenishing nutrients.  Sit back, sip and enjoy as if it was a cafe latte from Starbucks.

Big Ragu Says the Tofu is amazing

SRIRACHA GINGER ROASTED TOFU GREEN BOWL:
Let us first start by saying this roasted tofu is the best tofu that the Big Ragu has ever eaten. It is flavorful and delicate.  The cubes of tofu are sprinkled over baby spinach leaves and kale.  Broccoli, carrots, sprouts, basil, ginger and sriracha sauce are all tossed in.  We added extras like edamame and shredded beets.  The dressing was a Carrot Chili Vinaigrette dressing.

 

THE MEDITERRANEAN:
This salad features homemade Falafel and Hummus.  The salad consists of shredded romaine and kale.  Other toppings are cucumbers, tomatoes, feta and red onion.  A Cucumber Basil Dressing finishes the whole thing off.  The falafel is what makes this salad great… it is incredible.

Incredible Mediterranean Bowl – Falafel and Hummus on top

 

BEET LEMONADE:
Even if you aren’t a fan of beets, you might like this one.  The subtle earthy flavor is masked by a great lemonade.   It is easy to ignore the hint of beets and drink the lemonade, knowing you are getting some health benefits.  Beets have been directly linked to lowering blood pressure and increasing brain & memory functions.

 

APPLE CIDER GREEN TEA:
The best drink by far in our estimation.  And the bonus is the benefits.  Green Tea helps lower cholesterol and is an anti aging herb.  Wow – we could all use a pause button on Father Time.  The mix with the apple cider, means a purely refreshing drink that you will fall in love with.

Apple Cider Green Tea

HONORABLE MENTION:
3 Soups – The Tomato Basil, Autumn Squash and Broccoli Cheddar soups. These taste sinful, but are totally healthy because the creamy flavor comes from cauliflower puree.

There you have it, the tips on the best things to eat in this big menu  of healthy stuff.  The key to CoreLife is that you can tweak the salad your way. Choose a dressing, choose vegetables, leave some out.  We  all know, no one makes a better salad than ourselves.

So remember, Thursday Nov. 9th is “pay what you want” and proceeds go to Hannah’s Treasure Chest.  November 10th, Friday is the official opening of the restaurant.

Clean and Fresh

We loved this place, and think you will too.  It is a refreshing take and a unique theme.  There is nothing else like it in Dayton.

We would like to thank the staff of CoreLife for their hospitality, from Head Coach Tammy to Regional Operations Mgr Tony from Cleveland.

–Thank you for reading this week’s Food Adventure article.  Food Adventures is a blog that seeks out the best eats in the Miami Valley and shares them with you.  Are you a foodie?  Then join the 7500 foodies on Facebook that follow Food Adventures by clicking HERE.

Feel free to browse our gallery below, for more pictures from Corelife.  Leave a comment below on what you would like to try, or what your favorite dishes are …

What will you top it off with?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steak Green bowl

Steak Green Bowl with dressing

Booths

Beet Lemonade

About 10 homemade dressings to choose from

Tuna Poke

Spicy Chicken and noodles

Great drinks

Beef Bone Broth

Dressings

Ready and open

Meditterranean

Tofu salad – spicy noodles

Sriracha over the tofu Salad

Falafel and hummus among us

Drink lineup

Tuna Grain Bowl

Spicy Chicken with Ancient Grain Bowl

Mediterranean ‘bowl

 

 

PIADA Fall and Winter Menu

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One of the perks of writing for a food blog is the generous invitation to private tastings of our local eateries! Most recently, PIADA Italian Street Food invited us to sample their new Fall and Winter menu. Their goals for this menu were to create healthy and hearty meals that leave you satisfied and not feeling stuffed like a Thanksgiving turkey! And trust us, they nailed it!

Our tasting started off with the Harvest Grain bowl. This bowl is packed with a farro (that’s a Mediterranean wheat grain, similar taste to barley), pecans, cranberries, feta, sweet potatoes, fennel (the leaves, not the seeds), and basil. All of this is seasoned with their red wine dressing. The salad is refreshing and unique as many of these items aren’t ones we would think to toss together!

 

We then indulged in the Prochetta Sandwich. This was a slider sized sandwich that when you look at it, you would think it’s too small to satisfy. Wrong! This little guy is small but MIGHTY. The sandwich is packed with slices of their slow roasted pork loin that was seasoned with theirmix of Tuscan spices. Basil aioli, pickled red onion and fennel leaves top the sandwich all nestled within a rustic Italian roll!

 

The last meal item that we had the pleasure to sample was the Mediterranean Power Bowl. This bowl is chuck full of healthy eats that will keep you full for a good chunk of your day! On top of the bed of red quinoa les roasted cauliflower and broccoli, sweet potatoes, pickled red onions and glazed chick peas. This power house salad is topped off with their Harissa and Greek Yogurt drizzle that adds just enough of a spice to finish it off.

To wash everything down, we were refreshed with their new Blood Orange Pomegranate Tea. These all natural and refreshing flavors were a great complement to these menu items!

PIADA started out in 2010 in Columbus and has since expanded all over the state. The are known for their take on Italian street food and pasta creations. These added menu items help bring their dishes to an even higher level for a quick service restaurant. PIADA prides themselves on creative, fresh and tasty dishes that surly will please each member of your family!

We want to give a special thanks and shout out to Tastefully Roasted Coffee for hosting the event. That night we were able to test out their new coffee bar. I indulge in a latté with almond milk, honey and cinnamon created by one of their baristas named Sarah. It was fantastic and I look forward to further tastefully roasted creations them!