Dayton937

MikeSell’s Introduces “Beer Can Chicken Flavor” & More…

August 15, 2014 By Dayton937 2 Comments

New “Beer Can Chicken” flavor hits shelves August 22nd

Dayton’s hometown potato chip has done it again. Mikesell’s has released two new, unique flavors in their line of snacks! And Daytonians are the beneficiaries of the great taste.

Looks like you Food Adventurers have a couple more MUST EATS on your list. We were lucky enough to sample a couple of bags before they are out in stores. Here are Food Adventure’s take on the new flavors.

— BEER CAN CHICKEN FLAVORED POTATO CHIPS: We love the name and the idea is unique. The flavor is very muted and soft. Mikesells lovers will find not much variance of flavor from the regular groovy chips. The chips are almost a “Chicken Broth” flavor, so it is very subtle. Eatability factor is a 10 out of 10. We could munch on these all night and day. These are Mikesells for sure! This chip would great with some french onion dip.

— SOUTHWESTERN QUESO CHEESE CURLS: The puffs with no husk are back with a bold flavor. These have a little kick from the jalapeno flavor, but not too much. The perfect amount of zestiness and heat make these cheese curls eatable by the handfuls. Grab a bag of these for a party pleaser snack. Your sassy Food Adventure in a bag

Mikesells two new flavors are definitely a tale of two contrasts. One flavor is fairly subtle, and the other is fairly bold. The one thing that they have in common is they are tasty and addicting. We will be munching these up all over town. Hope you grab a bag and try these Dayton Originals for yourself. They will be available in stores AUGUST 22nd !

Want more Dayton Originals? Then “like” the often imitated, never duplicated “Food Adventures” on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Check out our photos below of the new products from Mikesells !
[flagallery gid=101]

Road Trip Food Adventure? Seafood Fest in Cincy Starts Tonight!

August 13, 2014 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Delicious, Whole Steamed Lobsters for $10.95

Whole lobsters for $10.95??

WHAT? .. No, the proper comment is YES! YES! YES! Wanna take a drive? It is time for a fish, mollusk, and crustacean FOOD ADVENTURE!

The Great Inland Seafood Festival takes place this Thursday through Sunday on the banks of the Ohio River. More specifically, the fest is at Newport Landing in Newport, KY.

The Food Adventures Crew are the only ones in Dayton with the full scoop on this road trip !

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The Great Inland Seafood Festival runs THURSDAY, AUG. 14 – SUNDAY, AUG. 17th.

— The event is on Newport Landing, in Kentucky, literally behind the Newport Aquarium, in a parking lot, on the banks of the Ohio River

— Admission is FREE ! We suggest getting there EARLY, whatever day you plan to go, to avoid crowds/lines.

Make sure you try one of the HUGE crabcakes

— Festival Hours are:

THURS 5pm-11pm

FRI 5pm-11pm

SAT: Noon-11pm

SUN: Noon-9pm

Now, pay attention, because we are gonna tell you something most important. We are gonna share with you our favorite things, because we are not ‘shellfish!” (groan)

MUST EATS:

— WHOLE MAINE LOBSTERS FOR $10.95: Need we say more? Served with drawn butter, these are the tastiest items and best deal at the festival. We usually eat 2 or 3 each. Yeah …. Food Adventure problems. They sell thousands of lobsters each year, so you don’t have to worry about clawing your way to the top to get one.

— THE COLOSSAL CRAB CAKES: Delicate enough to be delicious, but huge enough to curb your hunger, you gotta try one of these pan seared babies.

What about the other stuff? Well the world is your oyster.. There are fried seafood platters galore, and combos too. Not all the food is fried, there are some steamed items like tilapia and other grilled items.

Be warned, seafood is expensive, so some of the sampler and combo plates can be $20. So don’t be “crabby” when you see a few price tags.

Take it from us, eat some seafood, enjoy some free live music, check out the view, and even visit some watering holes at Newport Landing afterwards… Bring some friends, now is not the time to “clam up.”

In fact you can do what we like to do. Go to the festival early, then explore Newport, and hit the festival again on your way to the parking garage at night. Nothing says Food Adventures like live, whole lobsters at 10:00pm ! Hope to see you there if you make the drive.

There is something fishy going on here, but that’s how we like it at the Great Inland Seafood Festival.

Do you like seafood? Want to SEE more FOOD? Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE. It is a foodie’s paradise, and we aren’t just “fishing” for compliments.

Check out the photo gallery below for some incredible pics of all angles of the festival !

[flagallery gid=100]

Get Up Close With Bats

August 12, 2014 By Dayton937

Step into the exciting and mysterious world of bats with the Organization for Bat Conservation (OBC) at Possum Creek MetroPark Farm Saturday, Aug. 16, from 7:30 to 9pm during the Live Bat Experience. The event includes an exploration of the importance of bats, habitat and conservation, as well as of the amazing adaptations bats have made to navigate their nocturnal lifestyle. Attendees will get a chance to meet African fruit bats, a local insect-eating bat and a Jamaican leaf-nosed bat.

In addition, attendees will investigate the many amazing features of bats — including echolocation, flight and feeding habits — and explore the unique roles these nocturnal mammals play in our world. Staff from the OBC also will discuss how to help these local mosquito eaters. Afterward, attendees will take a short hike in search of bats in the wild.

“We are excited to sponsor OBC’s rescued bats and bring these misunderstood creatures to Five Rivers MetroParks,” said David Kugler, president of Propestmen of Ohio Inc. “Many nature centers are struggling with the effects of the economy, and we feel that the OBC’s programs bring a necessary component to the community because they inspire children to learn about science. We hope to get a lot of attendance from the public to help support MetroParks.”

Reservations are required and limited for this free program: Visit metroparks.org to register or call 937-275-7275.

ABOUT PROPESTMEN CRITTER CATCHERS

Founded in 2005, the Ortonville, Michigan-based Critter Catchers Inc. was formed by David Kugler, an Oakland University graduate holding a bachelor of science in biology and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Wayne State University. Propestmen of Ohio Inc., a branch of Critter Catchers, provides wildlife control services in Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton and surrounding areas and specializes in humane bat removal and other attic pests. Visit the website at www.propestmen.com or call 614-344-4278.

The Greatest Potato Salad in the World * Win 2 lbs & Cabbage Rolls *

August 8, 2014 By Dayton937 28 Comments

Third Generation Owner John Mott with his Famous Belmont Catering Potato Salad

Are you aware that the greatest potato salad in the world is in Dayton, Ohio? The Big Ragu knows…

YES, it is true! But many Daytonians already knew that Belmont Catering is the potato salad mecca of the Midwest. If you are like us, their potato salad has been a special treat at your family functions and holidays for decades.

We will have many foaming at the mouth for this giveaway:

****Comment on the story below and one winner will be chosen at random. The prize is 2 pounds of Belmont Catering’s famous potato salad and 6 of their cabbage rolls !!

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Belmont Catering has been providing the best potato salad you have ever eaten for over 35 years. It is a Food Adventure in a container….

— Family owned for 3 generations, today’s owner John Mott still sticks to the basics that made the company a success.

— Located on 730 Watervliet Rd. near the intersection of Smithville, you may sometimes see a line out the door.

— The potato salad is such a cult classic that former Dayton residents have it shipped overnight all over the USA. One person even overnighted a huge cooler of the stuff to Manhattan in New York City and paid $100 in shipping! Who does that, unless it is the best potato salad in the world.

On busy weekends, Belmont Catering Hand Peels 2,000lbs of Potatoes. Yep, a TON of Potatoes

— Belmont Catering goes through about 500 pounds of potatoes a week, and on holiday weekends they go through 1,500 – 2,000 pounds of potatoes. Yes, that is a ton of potatoes. The staff told us that 50 pounds of potatoes makes about 65 pounds of Potato Salad.

— Our biggest tip is CALL AHEAD. It is best to call in your order 1 or 2 days ahead of time. If you just stop in, it will be rare for you to find what you need because everything is usually sold out since items are made to order. You can thank the Food Adventures Crew later for this advice.

MUST EATS:

— THE POTATO SALAD: OBVIOUSLY .. at $4.25 a pound, there are lines out the door for this stuff. but why is it so good? Is it the pimentos? The Mustard? The Mayonnaise? NOOOO !

Here is the secret to the world’s best potato salad:

1) The potatoes are peeled, rinsed, then SHREDDED like hash browns. This gives a distinct, one-of-a-kind texture and no hard chunks.

2) No chunks of eggs in the salad. This is potato salad, not egg salad. Eggs may or may be in the recipe, but you won’t see any ….

3) Cleanliness. The kitchen is immaculate. The Montgomery County Health Inspectors have given Belmont Catering the highest marks over their last 19 visits to the kitchen.

4) Third Generation Owner, John Mott is still using his Grandmother’s recipe. And by the way, her recipe will blow your mom’s potato salad out of the water. It is reminiscent of the movie “What’s Up tiger Lily” where they hunted down a similar recipe, “a salad so delicious you could pltoz.”

Storefront on 730 Watervliet Ave., Inside is the World’s Greatest Potato Salad

Oh but that’s not all. Belmont Catering did not build its business on potato salad alone.

There are more, MUST EATS such as:

— CABBAGE ROLLS: $6.80 for 6 of them, they are also a cult favorite.

— THE BBQ PULLED PORK: Outstanding flavor, and sold at $6.90 a pound

There are many more items, but these are our top favorites. You can find a list of pick up items HERE, we cannot stress enough the need to call ahead..

And then there is the CATERING aspect of their business. If you need an event catered, breakfasts, cookouts, or boxed lunches, these are your go to guys. They pretty much deliver a Food Adventure to your event. Belmont Catering has built this business for decades with great food and service.

With Labor Day Weekend right around the corner, now is a perfect time to treat yourself to some of the World’s Best Potato Salad !!

Cabbage Rolls – Frozen or Made Fresh to Order

Get down to Belmont Catering on Watervliet, and pick up a taste of great potato salad, but call ahead! No cookout, picnic, holiday or family event is complete without it!

****Who wants to win some of their great food? Comment below for your chance to win ! ****

Food Adventures is going to giveaway 2 pounds of their famous potato salad and 6 cabbage rolls to one lucky reader!!

To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment below on this story, telling us why you want the goods. One winner will be picked at RANDOM next week.

There is another way you can be a winner in general, like Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE ! Anything else is just a generic copy..

Check out our photo gallery from our visits to Belmont Catering, below.

[flagallery gid=98]

Haunted Houses, Pad Thai & FREE DVD CONTEST

August 1, 2014 By Dayton937 9 Comments

Chicken Pad Thai – A staple on the menu at Siam Pad Thai.

What does Pad Thai have in common with Haunted Houses? That’s easy. A Food Adventure, celebrating today’s nationwide DVD release of local horror film “Haunted House on Sorority Row.” Want to win a free autographed copy of this scary ass movie? All you have to do is comment below, and one winner will be chosen at random.

The Food Adventure Crew recently sat down with the film’s director, Henrique Couto and cast members Erin Ryan and Joni Durian..

The Food Adventure took place at Siam Pad Thai on Wilmington Pike, a favorite spot of both Big Ragu & Henrique Couto. We ate and talked about the film, various favorite foods and favorite horror flicks. Everyone was very excited about the release of the DVD. We let the noodles and the comments fly!

First, let’s start with the film HAUNTED HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW…… now available on DVD ! Want a copy?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Locally filmed thriller, with suspense, blood, guts and boobs.. check out the intense trailer HERE !

— Dayton’s own, Henrique Couto is making a name for himself in independent movie circles.

“Haunted House on Sorority Row” was filmed locally. The DVD is now available on Amazon.com, or win one by commenting below !

MUST SCREAMS:

— The DVD may be bought at these retailers: Amazon.com, Game Swap at the corner of Dorothy Lane and Woodman Dr. and FYE at the Fairfield Commons Mall.

— If Amazon needs to restock, you may have to wait a few days, but in the meantime order our favorite film, by Henrique, last year’s dvd Babysitter Massacre !

— You can find more of Henrique’s items HERE.

You may recall that The Big Ragu went to the theater showing of “Haunted House on Sorority Row” earlier this year at Englewood Cinemas.

What makes this film so special? Henrique says it is his scariest movie of all time. Joni believes the scenes of pure survival in the house, comes across strongly in the film. Erin thinks the psychological, role driven aspects of each character, gives the film its frightening feel. As for you the viewer, well you gotta a pick up a DVD and see for yourself.

We also got a chance to ask the group some questions about their favorite scary movies, restaurants and more !

See how you stack up to their answers:

Hope you didn’t eat any popcorn during the flick, we are about to eat. We also hope we didnt scare you with the spooky, locally made, must see movie.. if we did, just relax.

Coconut Soup – delicious and unique. Click to enlarge

Now let’s talk Thai – Oh yeah, we talk Thai.. we talk Thai gooooddd. *** SIAM PAD THAI *** to be exact!! Now can you deal with this?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Since 2008, owner “Fon,” has brought her recipes from past restaurants she owned like Ban Thai, and Yummy Burger

— Seating is limited to about 30 people in this little spot, located at 3027 Wilmington Pike

— Attractions include Thai Specialties and Sushi !

With our many visits to Siam Pad Thai, we have developed some favorites, we list as “must eats.”

MUST EATS:

— THAI TEA: Feel free to send us thank you cards for this tip. A mix between an iced tea and a milkshake, this is one of those “you gotta try this” items.

— COCONUT SOUP: Warming to the soul, this soup contains lime leaves, tomato, mushroom, lime juice and of course coconut milk. Perfect for a cold day, actually perfect for any day. A delicious taste of Thai.

Deep Fried Terminator Roll: Try it and “you’ll be back”

— SOFTSHELL CRAB: One of the only places we know of that serves this delicacy year round. It is a delicacy and dare we say Food Adventure on a plate. Get over your fear, because this crab is edible, shell and all !

— THE PAD THAI: It doesnt matter if you get chicken, shrimp or vegetable, this is the real deal and some of the best stuff in town. Our filmmaking pal Henrique Couto agrees and pegs this his favorite dish at his favorite restaurant.

— THE DEEP FRIED TERMINATOR SUSHI ROLL: Sushi roll with Cream cheese, cooked salmon, eel sauce, sesame seeds, then deep fried in a light batter. They must call it a Terminator Roll because once you try it… “You’ll be back.”

Honorable Mention: The Mango Dessert served with sticky rice and coconut milk is a good one. Also, seafood lovers will love the Seafood soups in a Clay Pot for a nice Food Adventure. There are a few variations of seafood,noodles, etc. so choose your interest.

****PRIZE CONTEST****

ONE lucky fan who comments and shares the story will get a free DVD copy of “Haunted House on Sorority Row,” autographed by the director Henrique Couto !
The winner will be chosen at random on Wednesday.

Thanks to Henrique, Erin and Joni for joining us on an official Food Adventure!

Had enough to eat? After seeing the film and eating at Siam Pad Thai, you will know the difference between a Columbian Neck Tie, and a Pad Thai.

If you want more of Food Adventures, then you MUST CLICK LIKE on Facebook HERE !!!

Until then, check out our sexy, scary and scrumpious photos from our visits over the years to SIAM PAD THAI !

[flagallery gid=96]

Eat me, I’m Celtic !

July 25, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Here’s to the 2014 Dayton Celtic Fest

Tonight, tomorrow and Sunday.. there is an Irish Food Adventure brewing on the streets of Dayton. It is the wildly popular Dayton Celtic Festival. Who better to tell you lasses and lads about it than The Food Adventure Crew?

Listen up as we give a tip of our cap to the festival for the good old Emerald Isle!

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— It is a street party celebrating Irish Heritage at RIVERSCAPE METRO PARK with dancing, music, beer and FOOD ! Admission is FREE

—FESTIVAL GOES FROM FRIDAY – SUNDAY !

Friday – 6:30pm – 10:30pm

Saturday – Noon – 10:30pm

Sunday – Noon – 5:30pm

— Want directions??? CLICK HERE !

A Cheeky Meat Pie is in your future

What to eat?? This isn’t our first blarney stone, so take our advice or we will hit you in the head with a Shillelagh.

So by “faith and begorrah,” here are our patented “must eats” !!

MUST EATS:

— REUBEN SANDWICH FROM CLADDAGH’s BOOTH: We love a good Reuben, and we have found a delicious one here! Served freshly grilled and hot, this is a big sandwich, that will fill you up.

— CHEEKY MEAT PIES: Whether you order the Distinguished Darby version, or another type, these pies are fantastic and perfect for “on the go eating.” Watch out! They are hot inside! Australian pies at an Irish Festival?? You betcha !

— IRISH BEER: There are the three types we recommentd – the lighter beer (HARP LAGER), the red beer (SMITHWICK’S), and the dark beer (GUINNESS). Or make Ireland proud. and go through all the colors of the rainbow, they say there is a pot of gold at the end….

— FISH AND CHIPS: High demand on these might mean a line, but it ensures you get a piping hot, fresh out of the fryer, batch of fish and chips. Whether you do tartar or vinegar, you will be glad you did some pub style sea fare.

— GRILLED SALMON SANDWICH from BROCK MASTERSONS: Looking for a lighter treat? Try one of these babies with or without a bun. The secret is the dill sauce topping, so ask for extra. Honorable mention goes to their crab cakes, which almost made the list. This is a Food Adventure all time fave.

Fish and Chips – Must Eats at the Celtic Festival

An important tip.. there is a dish called haggis at the festival, which traditionally is chopped up liver served inside pig intestines… we tried it last year. Once was enough for us. For some of you purists with adventurous pallets, go for it.

Hopefully we pointed you in the right direction for a weekend Food Adventure.

There is one more wee bit of advice we have about the festival, and that is make sure you stop in and listen to the music under the big white Riverscape tents. It makes the food and beer taste better too. Musical acts are flown in from Ireland for this event, so take advantage of it.

See you at the festival, please say “hi” to The Food Adventure Crew, and we will try to wave or shake hands while carrying beer and festival food.

Check out our gallery below for some killer food pics from Celtic Fests of yesteryear!
Want more from these leprechauns? Then like Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !

[flagallery gid=97]

Yo, Adrian! We Bit It !!

July 19, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The EB Pizza (Everything but Anchovies) – Click to Enlarge

Can you smell, what the Rocky’s is cooking?

That delicious aroma is coming from Rocky’s Pizza Ring, at 3273 Seajay Rd. in Beavercreek. Known to Beavercreek foodies for years, this Gem City original is nestled into the Beaver Valley Shopping Center, is behind Lofino’s Grocery. It is a little tough to find, but once you know about this little known secret, you will be back for more. In fact on their menu, the motto is “Once Found, Never Forgotten.”

Mama said knock you out with the scoop on Rocky’s Pizza Ring, so we’re gonna knock you out….
In this corner, we have The Big Ragu, the undisputed, undefeated Dayton Foodies in his Forties. It’s time for a Food Adventure, so ring the bell, and let’s get it on.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Fun atmosphere, where the dining tables are inside a boxing ring. There are also old articles on the wall about various fighters from the 1940’s-1970’s

— Owner/Manager Amy, comes in at 6am each day and makes all of the dough, fresh from scratch. It makes a big difference, you will see, in the taste.

Calzone with Pepperoni, Mushrooms and Green Peppers

— Amy also makes her own sausage & meatballs. She even makes her bread from scratch for Rocky’s menu selection of East Coast Style Subs.

— Family owned and operated since 1975, current ownership is 2nd generation. They still use the original pizza ovens for that great flavor!

— The hours are a bit tricky: Monday through Thursday, they are open 11am-2pm, then they close and reopen 5-10pm. Friday they stay open til 11pm, while Saturdays and Sundays hours are 11am-11pm, and 11am-10pm respectively.

Now lace up your gloves, you are about to go toe to toe with Rocky’s “Must Eats !” Wait, unlace the gloves, it makes it easier to eat…..

MUST EATS:

— THE EB PIZZA (Everything but anchovies): Want “deluxe” toppings? Then you want the EB PIZZA . Yo Mick, the main event is their pizza. Rocky’s pies are a thinner crust and cut into small squares. As we said, the fresh dough is key here. **TIP: Some of you who like a crispier crust may request them to cook it “well done.”

— THE PEPPERONI PIZZA: A good, ol’ classic. With Rocky’s dough, cheese and sauce combination, you cant go wrong. Take your mouthpiece out before eating.

Entering the ring, from Dayton, Ohio …..

— EAST COAST ITALIAN SUB: Their most popular sub, served with onions and Italian oil, provolone, with an option for lettuce and tomato too !

— THREE INGREDIENT CALZONE: Pick your own 3 fillings, and enjoy the fresh dough that holds it all together. This calzone is definitely fork and knife worthy.

— EAST COAST TURKEY SUB: Nothing fancy, just one of the best quick turkey sandwiches out there. The fresh bread makes you wanna hold the sandwich like a teddy bear.

— TACO PIZZA: Grilled hamburger meat, crumbled, mixed with Mexican spices, and topped with 2 kinds of cheese. It is then baked and finished with a topping of lettuce and tomatoes. Spicy, tasty and filling. This is a unique tasting pie, and one of the top taco pizzas we have encountered. A Food Adventure favorite.

The menu also includes spaghetti dinners, burgers, salads and hoagies. Rocky’s Pizza Ring is the place to go, to put your taste buds in training.

Taco Pizza at Rocky’s Pizza Ring

Here is also something that you need to know. Rocky’s has a FREE Stand up Comedy Night on the second MONDAY of each month. Also every Monday is 1/2 price beer pitchers.

What are the future plans for Rocky’s? They are looking to get craft beer on tap, and partner with brushes and barstools for future events.

We have known about this place since the days of bellbottoms, and continue to get our fix every few weeks. It astounds us that so many people are still not aware this place exists. Don’t be one of the those people!

Whether you are sitting in the dining room ring, or grabbing some pizza to go, we hope you try this champ a try. The ownership works heard to deliver freshness every day. Rocky’s Pizza Ring in Beavercreek, will put your hunger down for the count!

Check out our KNOCKOUT photo gallery below, from our numerous visits to Rocky’s Pizza Ring !

Want to catch all of the jabs and uppercuts in the Dayton Food Arena? Then jump on Facebook and “like” Food Adventures, by clicking HERE.

[flagallery gid=95]

National Becomes Local: Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine

July 13, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Bob Medlin & Jordan Frank of Longhorn Steakhouse, volunteer time & resources to many Dayton charities

We just had to tell you. We just had to tell you about something happening in your community that you have no idea about.

As you know, 95% of our weekly Food Adventure articles feature local mom and pop establishments serving up great food.

But sometimes, there is a need to mention something that is going on at a Nationally owned restaurant. In this case, no one is more deserving than Bob Medlin, the manager of Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, located at 1921 West Dorothy Lane.

We know,we know…. ” the dreaded chain restaurant,” but there is one thing you local purists can’t ignore. It is the constant donation of resources and volunteering that Bob Medlin and his staff give to the Miami Valley. The Big Ragu and Crew volunteer at a lot of charity events, and we notice that Bob Medlin and Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine are involved in almost every charity group that we support. The staff believes in not only serving quality affordable food, but they go an extra step in volunteering for many charitable organizations.

Food Adventures joined forces with Longhorn Steakhouse Moraine, to support the March of Dimes Walk for Babies. We ate at their pancake breakfasts that supported the Sandy Hook Elementary victims, and the Mobley Family who endured terrible losses in a local fire. The Big Ragu and Crew have also run into the Longhorn staff at the annual AMBUCS Chili cookoff, that benefits Dayton citizens with various disabilities, by providing them equipment to become more mobile.

After talking with the management and the staff, we realized, this was just the tip of the iceberg. Just some of the charities helped by Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, either directly or indirectly through volunteering staff, or donating resources, food or supplies, are the following organizations:

Food For Kids (Vandalia)

Dayton Hospice Walk

Snuggled Up Inc. – bedding for Dayton area kids

The Greater Dayton Apartment Association’s Rent Foundation – prevents homelessness in Dayton, by paying rent for families in crisis.

Shoes for the Shoeless and Brief Blessings – helping Dayton area children with basic needs such as shoes and underwear

Ronald McDonald House of Dayton – Staff volunteered to rake leaves, clean up yard

Dayton Circles – dedicated to ending poverty

Back2Back Ministries – Helping local orphans and abandoned children

Kiser Elementary– helping educate refugee children who have settled in Dayton.

Christ’s Church of Bellbrook’s – various charity programs

Relay for Life Charities from American Cancer Society– pancake breakfasts to raise money

Bob & the Longhorn Steakhouse Staff volunteering at the March of Dimes Walk for Babies, and giving out cake

Apex Church charity Rib Dinner to benefit Relay For Life Charities

Donated supplies for Apex Church missionary charity support of 6 Mexican orphans, and 1 orphangirl in India

Big Brothers Big Sisters program of the Greater Miami Valley – Helping Dayton children reach their potential

Dayton Life Enrichment Center – providing groceries and meals to needy families of Dayton

Target Dayton Ministries – serving meals to Dayton’s homeless and poor

Miami Valley Womens Center – helping new moms and dads with loss of an infant

Harvest House – helping rehabilitate females who have been abused, or dealing with depression

Victory Project – helping Dayton youth in the Juvenile system rebuild themselves and stay crime free

Miracle League of Dayton – providing special needs children a baseball field where they can play

These are just some charities off the top of the staff’s heads. The thing is, they don’t toot their own horn, they just help out the community in so many ways. And it is contagious. As we talked to the staff, we realize they all want to help and get involved, because they see how their company has affected lives for the positive.

And so many lives have been affected by the Longhorn Steakhouse staff. We have yet to mention donations to local elementary schools, or events for the Fairmont track football, basketball , and volleyball teams! They even had volunteers help cater a prom dinner.

Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, holds Pancake Breakfasts for various charities, here is one of our delicious plates that we devoured

Longhorn Steakhouse of Moraine events have benefited local pet adoption companies and local cancer survivors. There have been Dayton Demonz hockey team charity work, volunteer staff car washes for charities. Bob Medlin and his co-workers have helped donatefor benefits for cystic fibrosis and leukemia. They have helped local feeding centers, local food banks, and helped organize local clothing donations.

Although they have a full staff supporting and volunteering for many of these events, there are 3 managers at Longhorn who have instilled and lead this philanthropist philosophy with their employees. The first person we have already mentioned, is manager Bob Medlin. The other two, are managing partner Jordan Frank and Rita Hayworth, fundraising specialist. Together they provide a great, caring work atmosphere of giving back to the community.

So the next time you are in the mood for some steakhouse type food, you may want to mosey on over to the Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine and keep paying it forward. You may even get to see Bob Medlin, and tell him thank you for their community support. Let him know you saw his charity work “shout out” on Food Adventures. Bob and his staff are very humble, and the staff never boasts about their charity work. They participate enthusiastically and take pride in helping various needs in the Dayton area. We are grateful for fellow citizens like this and want them to know, we greatly appreciate all you do. Thanks for making a local difference with a national company.

Please view our gallery below of photos inside Longhorn Steakhouse and the staff volunteering at various events.

Also, make sure you become a Food Adventure fan on Facebook, by CLICKING HERE TO “LIKE” US.

[flagallery gid=94]

A Year of (DE-FI)ance: A Look Back

July 8, 2014 By Dayton937

The second issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine is on sale now at http://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/754946?__r=43

This weekend, the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC will be celebrating its 1 year Anniversary with (DE-FI) Gives Back that will include a Habitat For Humanity Build on Friday July 11^th, on Saturday July 12^th we will help out with some activities benefiting Homefull, and on Sunday July 13^th we will be supporting (DE-FI) Designer Misti Leigh who will be hosting a Casting Call for the first major fashion event that the City of Springfield has hosted when she presents Fashion Forward Fusion on August 16. The Casting Call will take place at the Boonshoft Museum in Springfield located at 465 Upper Valley Pike, Springfield, OH 45504 from 1pm-3pm. For more info about the Casting Call and Fashion Forward Fusion please visit http://www.iiifashionevents.com.

As the owner and CEO of the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC, I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting over the past year since we first launched with our Fashion In the Mystic Garden Event held at SunWatch Indian Village on July 13, 2013. What an event that was, we had amazing designers, a Native American Drum Group, a fire lit runway, fire dancers, and so much more all in the majestic setting of the restored village. We’ve come a long way since that day, I remember being so stressed out that day and unable to gather my thoughts, I was like an egg shell ready to crack at the gentlest of touches. In fact I stayed away most of the day during the preparation process and when I did come back to check on the progress I hid in the huts of SunWatch calling the individuals that I needed to speak with to come out to meet with me to avoid being bombarded with questions! lol

Over the past year we’ve learned so many lessons, grown leaps and bounds, and we are ready to keep the ball rolling and continue with that upward climb of shining a spotlight on Dayton Emerging Fashion scene! In the beginning, we had a million and one ideas on what we wanted this Incubator to be and how it should operate. We played around with a lot of ideas some were wildly successful, others bombed big time, and some we just needed to work out the kinks and adjust accordingly; after all there weren’t a lot of organizations out there that we could model our incubator after, all we knew is we wanted something that supported and nurtured the growth of local fashion designers, models, and other fashion professionals.

Model: Iain Steele
Designer: Berny Martin of Catou
Event: Fashion In The Mystic Garden
Location: SunWatch Indian Village Photographer: Reginald Worthen

One of the major and most successful initiatives that we took on was the unprecedented act of waiving the fees for designers to showcase their designs and we paid our models! Believe it or not this sent shock waves through the fashion community and we caught a lot of heat from other fashion organizations and groups. Some attacked us by saying that we are a For Profit Organization and that because they are a Non-Profit 501 (3) (c) that they couldn’t pay their designers or models and therefore relied only on the use of volunteer to serve as staff and models…NEWSFLASH the Salvation Army, Habitat For Humanity, and numerous other organizations that are Non-Profit 501 (3) (C)’s pay their staff, so ones tax status has nothing to do with ability to pay those who help you grow your business it more about the willingness to share your profits. However, in saying that 95% of what we do self-included is Volunteer and we only get paid when we have an event the the past 365 days we’ve only had 3 events but the amount of time and days of work that we put into what we do as volunteers cannot be measured and is priceless not to mention the fact that everyone from our staff, designers, and models are required to volunteer at least 40hrs a year in their respective communities to be a part of (DE-FI).

It’s not easy to start a new business especially one that is a new concept and a misunderstood industry in the Dayton and Miami Valley areas. (DE-FI) was started with $150 and in our first year of existence we have raised nearly $30,000 and out of that we’ve paid nearly $10,000 out to our designers, models, and staff for their work in helping us to market, promote, and sale tickets to our events. But our giving didn’t stop there, we’ve been very active in the community whether it’s supporting and sponsoring events for our Official Non-Profit the Circle of Vision Keepers Re-Entry and Recovery program, or sponsoring the Northmont High School Girls Volleyball Team, Fashion Angels by America’s Next Top Model Contestant Laura Kirkpatrick, My Beauty is Priceless Youth Empowerment Seminars, Metaphorically Speaking Poetry Slam, buying ads for the Adams Project, being a sponsor for Team Iris, a local teenager battling Lupus for the Walk to End Lupus Now in Columbus, and sponsoring (DE-FI) Designer Misti Leigh’s very first Fashion Productions Fashion Forward Fusion in Springfield, and many more. (DE-FI) will always take the time to give to those who have given to us!

A lot of people look at me as the CEO and have in mind what they think a CEO should be and how I should act, or how I should handle various situations, and then they look at the industry in which we work thru tunnel vision or narrow minded views and they assume that I or other member of the (DE-FI) leadership have no experience in a “legitimate” career field. Personally, I like to think that (DE-FI) is a reflection of who I am as a person—I’m comfortable in my own skin, I have a heart of gold, I’m willing to help anyone who asks for help, I have a creative vision, I’m open, transparent, eager to learn, eager to teach, vocal, outspoken, intelligent, fun, and witty, a ta bit stubborn at times, not afraid to fail but determined to succeed, flawed, and when crossed…well Hell hath no fury! lol Truly living up to the name (DE-FI) pronounced “defy”.

We use the moniker (DE-FI) to dare people to challenge the odds and the status quo; on our Facebook page and website we say (DE-FI) Style and (DE-FI) Trends and in this past year sadly we’ve had to use (DE-FI) Stereotypes. Again, the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC is a reflection of me and my life which since the age of 5 has been diverse, I grew up in an inter-racial family, I’ve always had a diverse group of friends, and in an Industry where diversity isn’t always celebrated in terms of the standard of beauty (DE-FI) took a stand and once again did something unprecedented, on the cover of the first issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine I put a 60+ year old Dutch-Indonesian Model on the cover of the magazine, she was join on the cover by a Haitian Model, a model of Hispanic Descent, an” All-American” Model, and an Iranian model all appeared on the cover. With well over 100 copies sold, the first issue of (DE-FI)ance was recently nominated, voted, and won the Best Emerging Media Award from the Posed Fashion Awards in Columbus, thousands of votes were tallied from across the country.

The award winning issue of (DE-FI)ance Magazine can be purchased on our website.
Models from L-R: Irene Smallwood-Bosma, Aube Jolicieur, Monica Gonzalez, Keilha Jude, and Jasmine Kashani
Photographer: Lamar Pacley
MUA: Angelica Ross
Hair Stylist: Stacia McVey

This cover not only represents me and (DE-FI) but it represents Dayton, and the United States as a whole. Yet, racism and bogotry reared its ugly head. For those of you who don’t know, I am African-American, I was never raised or taught to use the color of my skin as a crutch to limp through life on, or to be reduced by my stereo-type, I come from a family of Civil Rights activist who shoulders I stand on and whose memories I reflect on, and whose sacrifices I will not forget. As I look back over the past year and all of the memories, friendships, and partnerships that we have formed most bring a smile to my face but in January of this year I was told by Marty Smallwood of the Priority Board after A Taste of (DE-FI)ance that the only way (DE-FI) will grow and be successful is if I “Diversified” my team and my audience. Marty saw way too many black faces on my staff, on my runway, and in my audience for his liking and apparently having that many black people in one place is not a good thing and there is no way we could ever be successful.

But it didn’t stop there, upon finding out that I was black a week prior to A Taste of (DE-FI)ance, the manager of Therapy Café Jospeh (lastname unknown) where the event was being held yelled and shouted obscenities at me during a scheduled rehearsal at Therapy telling both myself and an African-American Advisory Board Member of (DE-FI) that “he’s tired of hosting black parties and that black parties are the reason that the City of Dayton is trying to put him out of business”. Please keep in mind that the majority of Therapy Café’s patrons are African-American events and parties that range from Professional, Artistic, Cultural, and regular parties, so just to be clear African-Americans are the reason that Therapy Café is in business. For the record, there wasn’t a single fight, stabbing, robbery, or shooting at our event or any of our events for that matter. But I’m not here to dwell on the negative or give ignorance and bigotry a platform but for the first time in my life I was ready to pack up and leave Dayton, felt discouraged and questioned whether or not I would be able to do all of the things that I had envisioned. But then I was quickly reminded of the hundreds of people that I had standing beside me and behind me cheering me on and lifting me up and made a conscious decision to not allow anyone or anything block my/our blessings but no matter what obstacles come our way we will continue to stay the course.

We have had nearly 30 of our models that we have scouted signed to Modeling agencies around the country and world. Some have ripped the runway during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, some have modeled for Abercrombie and Fitch, and they’ve appeared in national campaigns for GNC and Graeters Ice Cream. They are working in major motion pictures; they’ve appeared on the covers of Vogue Africa and in the pages of Vogue Italia. Our designers are being requested nationally, other fashion weeks from around the country are requesting information on our designers and models all of which are from right here in the Dayton and surrounding areas. I’ve been invited to serve my third season with the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s High Competitive Volunteer Program to get hands on experience during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. Our designers have had their designs purchased right off of the runway, so needless to say the positive far outweigh the negative.

Event: Taste of (DE-FI)ance
Designer: Misti Leigh
Models: L-R Rylie Janczarek,Shampain Sims, Amber Watson, Suzanne Robke Brock, Meliah Walker
Photographer: Lamar Pacley

Like every organization we’ve added people to our team to help us reach the next level and we’ve removed people from our team who didn’t quite live up to their own hype or fulfill their duties. We’ve dealt with the stage mom and dad who were upset that “Little Timmy” wasn’t the super star that they thought that he was. We’ve had the ego-manic designers that thought that the earth revolved around them. We’ve dealt with the people who only showed up for the glory of the success but were nowhere to be found during the blood, sweat, and tears that went into the process of reaching the success. We’ve faced the nay sayers, the doubters, the coat-tail riders, and we’ve silenced them all by just being ourselves

Our biggest challenge is again changing the perception of the industry as a whole; we still have event coordinators asking where do you want the “T” for the runway and the microphone set up for the emcee to talk about the outfit the model is wearing. We have people shocked to see that we don’t use industry standards for models; we have 5’1 models and brace yourself we have models that range in sizes from a 0 to an 18!! We challenge the way things are done here in Dayton, you know the exact same faces, doing the exact same things, the exact same way, but maybe their titles have changed. We have created new leaders in the community and empowered hundreds of people through the entrepreneurial spirit to promote themselves and their dreams; all growing our network and net worth in the process.

Model: Victoria Ashton
Designer: Baha and Reza
Event: First Flight Now Fashion
Location Commander Aero
Photographer: Pete Bradow

(DE-FI) is made up of local business owners, community leaders, and Fortune 500 Business Executives who are working together to help make others dreams come true and that alone speaks volumes of this organization and why I love it and the members who have stood by me through some major trials and tribulations personally and professionally. One year later through the mostly good sprinkled with a few bad times, the core leadership that helped me to launch this organization are still all together and still standing strong ready to move forward with making Dayton, OH a fashion destination for emerging and established fashion professionals!!

So what’s next for the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC? Well, now that we have a clearer vision and a more (DE-FI)ned mission; we have launched the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund LLC which is Non-Profit company that is currently in the process of becoming a 501 (3) (C) Tax status. While (DE-FI) will continue on as an event planning Fashion Organization giving emerging and established Designers and Fashion Professionals a platform to showcase their work and talent; the Art of (DE-FI)ance Fashion Fund LLC will serve as a means to support designer, photographers, and models financially in the pursuit of their dreams, be it scholarships to Fashion institutes, covering registration fees into influential fashion weeks across the country, the purchase of fabrics or equipment, or covering the cost of gas for models going to casting calls or jobs that can have a positive impact on their careers this is just a sneak peek of what in the near future for us. Most importantly, we are still going to continue on our grass roots path meaning there are no big “I’s” and little “you’s”, we are going to continue to promote our organization through network and giving people a #FashionExperience that they never thought possible coming from “Dayton”, and above all we will continue to give back.

Event: First Flight Now Fashion
Designer: Erika Berthy of Gowns by Beartie and Berny Martin of Catou
Models L-R Iain Steele, Keilah Jude, and Anthony Jr.
Photographer: Lamar Pacley

Some people may not understand why I run (DE-FI) the way I do which is kind of loose and free spirited, I step up the pressure on my staff and team when and where it’s needed, when I’m struggling with an issue or have questions I go to my staff and team for their assistance, and yes I’ve even called several of them crying my eyes out. We laugh together, we pray together, we cry together, we work hard together and when it’s time for Lights, Cameras…Action, we put on one hell of a show! From the bottom of my heart and on behalf of everyone from (DE-FI) thank you to each and every last one of you who have supported us and our mission since day one or contributed to our success over the past year. There are too many of you to thank individually and many of you who we may not even know, please know that we couldn’t do any of this without you and it’s your faith in us that serves as the driving force behind everything that we do!!

For more information on the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC and the Art of (DE-FI)ance or how you can purchase our Designers clothes, please visit our website at http://www.daytonemergingfashionincubator.com or text “DEFI” to 55469. #TakingItToTheNextLevel #FirstFlightNowFashion

Americana Festival: 5k, FOOD, Fireworks & Fox

July 2, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Pork Chops on the Grill

Run, eat and watch fireworks in the street. The Americana Festival is celebrating 41 years strong with this year’s event in downtown Centerville. This year we have the star spangled scoop on some new Food Adventure attractions and happenings.

The Big Ragu is a lifelong Centerville guy, so this festival is close to our homes and our hearts. We cant think of a better way to celebrate freedom and the good ole’ USA, than this event.

Here is a day in the life of a 4th of July Food Adventurer at the Americana Festival:

7:30am: 5K RUN at Centerville Stadium. Why? So we can eat all day, guilt free, that’s why !

9:30am: Sneak between the chairs lining the streets, dart across State Route 48 and see what food vendors are open early. Ragu actually had a 9:45am cheesesteak 2 years ago.

10:00am: Watch the AMERICANA FESTIVAL PARADE. We hope to march in he parade someday, carrying flags with cheeseburgers on them, and wearing sequin shorts…

Harvest Mobile Food Truck will be at the Festival

11:30am – 4:00pm: STREET FAIR: We are excited to be checking out these MUST EATS !!

—HARVEST MOBILE: Who else loves the healthy “Local Wrap?”

— ZOMBIE DOGZ: The Nibbler Dog ! Heck, any hot dog they have is a true original and something you wont taste anywhere else!

— EL MESON FOOD TRUCK: Empanadas to die for !

— MOM’S HOMEMADE GOODIES: Incredible Soft Pretzels

— SANTORINI’S GREEK KITCHEN: The Gyros are must eats. They are grilled fresh by these guys in from Indianapolis.

— TIM HORTON’S: You may need the coffee for some quick energy

— OLD TYME POPCORN: Kettle Corn experts !

— LaROSA’S: You gotta get some pizza slices from this Cincinnati icon

— CINDY LOU’S BBQ: Any BBQ entree is delicious here !

— KONA ICE: Cool off with a SnoCone cup with tiger’s blood sauce !

El Meson will be at the Street Fair

— CORK N BOTTLE’S AMERICAN GRILL: Any one of their sandwiches are delicious, cheap, and a handful !

— BLACKJACK GRILL: The best grilled porkchops in Dayton

—NELLY’S CHICKEN: The rotesserie roasted, Bolivian recipe chicken is nothing short of amazing on flavor !

As you can see there are gonna be plenty of options to light your fireworks. We didnt even mention the carnival type food, or local places within walking distance like SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE, JOHNNY’S SLICE OF NY, BILLS DONUTS, MARION’S PIZZA, CITY BBQ, GRAETERS ICE CREAM, ROOT48, and MCDIGGERS PUB.

We will also be hanging out with Fox and Friend’s Brian Kilmeade who will be in town promoting his new book!

10:00PM: FIREWORKS AT CENTERVILLE FOOTBALL STADUM. We usually cap off the night by attending the fireworks with family, after napping off a food coma.

Show your patriotism this Friday. Whether it is chanting USA, or wearing a US Flag t-shirt, we hope you have the time of your life. We suggest you do just that in downtown Centerville on the 4th !
Even Uncle Sam will be there, and so will The Food Adventures Crew.

Want be a good American? Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook HERE. We are often imitated, never duplicated.

Check out our Americana Food Photos below !

[flagallery gid=93]

Who’d You Rather: EL TORO or El RANCHO GRANDE ? +Win Free Dinner

June 29, 2014 By Dayton937 26 Comments

Chicken Fajitas from El Toro

Again, Food Adventures asks who’d you rather get it on with. This time a plate from El Toro or a plate from El Rancho Grande?

In this battle for the border, we know Daytonians are picking sides and drawing their line in the margarita salt. Comment below on which of these two Mexican Restaurants you like better and why ! One winner will be chosen at random and will win dinner with The Food Adventures Crew at their favorite, either El Toro or El Rancho. You will act as a referee for us as we also invite our biggest critic, the witty Michael R Hawk ! Let the insults fly !

Now, before you Dayton foodie purists jump all over our white cheese sauce… We love Mexican Restaurants Taqueria Mixteca (feature article) and Taco Loco (feature article) as our personal faves. Since we have featured those more obscure restaurants that most people have not been to, we decided for a more familiar fight…

Sound the bell, it’s time to rock the pinata !

First off, margaritas are chick drinks, so we will let the girls sound off and fight it out over who has the best margaritas of the two places.

Both places have fantastic service and tie in that category. The tacos, and chimichangas are impossible to tell apart. Also, the desserts like flan and fried ice cream are pretty much the same at both locations.

Del Mar Trio at El Rancho Grande features Lobster, Shrimp and Fish

As for everything else.. Here is how the Food Adventures judges saw it.

JAX’S VOTE: EL TORO

— Jax says “The Salsa at El Toro is Better.” The taste and chunkiness is second to none. This gives El Toro an early knockout in my book.

— Hungry Jax says “El Toro’s Fajitas Reign Supreme.” The fajitas at El Toro are the best. I love fajitas. Whether you get, steak, chicken or pollo (fish) fajitas, they are very filling and huge portions.

— Jax says “El Toro Gets the Slight Edge in Carnitas Tacos and Enchiladas. To put it bluntly, these two restaurants have a bunch of dishes, that under the cheese sauce, none of us can tell apart from each other. I like pork tacos and enchiladas, and El Toro is better by the slightest of margins, and the consistency is good across the 9 locations. So, El Toro gets my vote by low blow.”

THE BIG RAGU’S VOTE: EL RANCHO GRANDE

Beef Tacos from El Toro (we added their terrific salsa)

—The Big Ragu says, “The Del Mar Trio dish at El Rancho Grande is the champ of both menus. A must eat! Grilled lobster, tilapia and shrimp served on a fajita plate? FIGHT OVER !

— The Big Ragu says “El Rancho has Pacifico beer on tap. I have never seen that beer anywhere in my life, other than in bottles. Also, they feature Negra Modelo on tap. The other place is too punch drunk to beat that!” El Rancho Grande has similar draft beer choices at the 8 locations from North Dayton to Middletown.

— The Big Ragu says “El Rancho’s Chilles Rellenos are a deal maker.” Stuffed with cheese, these huge poblano peppers are melt in your mouth delicious. Stick a fork in them, they’re done!

Sound off and tell us which one you like, here is your chance for a free Food Adventure !

***** FREE DINNER WITH THE FOOD ADVENTURES CREW *****

LET’S HEAR FROM THE PEOPLE ! It is now your turn to comment on “Who’d you Rather : El Toro or El Rancho Grande?”

Pacifico Clara on Draft at El Rancho Grande? YES! YES! YES!

Hold onto your sombrero, muchacho! One person who comments on the story below will win dinner at their favorite, either El Rancho Grande or El Toro with Food Advntures! They will be joined by Food Adventure’s biggest critic, Michael R. Hawk, for an interesting evening of fun and food.

Want to see our WHO’D YOU RATHER stories over the past 3 years? Click on the individual links below !
Who’d You Rather? FRICKERS or ROOSTERS?

Who’d You Rather? CHIPOTLE or QDOBA?

Who’d You Rather? FIVE GUYS or SMASHBURGER?

Check out our photo gallery below for some great photos of El Toro and El Rancho Grande offerings. Dont’ forget to join the thousands on Facebook who “like” Food Adventures by clicking HERE !

[flagallery gid=92]

Yaffa Grill: Our New Favorite Spot

June 19, 2014 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Marinated Chicken on the Yaffa Grill

If Fred Flintstone was on Colonel Glenn Highway, he would say “Yaffa Gotta Do !” …and guess what, he would be right.

Yaffa Grill can be summed up as “simply exotic.” It has worldly tastes of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine that are as authentic as they are delicious. At the same time they serve the food on paper or styrofoam plates. You see? Simple and exotic. Food Adventures have tagged this as our new favorite eatery, and have been visiting the 2 Yaffa locations with some frequency.

Want an authentic, unique Food Adventure that is affordable and fun? Then look no further than Yaffa Grill.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— They have two locations, one at 2844 Colonel Glenn Hwy (across from Wright State), and the other at 21 Alex Rd in West Carrollton which features a Middle Eastern Market. A local family from Palestine, owns both businesses.

— The food is Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean. It is unique and exotic, but delicious! You will see spindles of meat and flaming shish kebabs. Yaffa Grill is a great place to experiment and try some new dishes out of your comfort zone. You will be happy you did!

— The prices are right. The most expensive thing on the menu is a whole grilled chicken for $15, and we know you cant eat that by yourself.

Click to enlarge this incredible appetizer called “Musabaha” which is much like hummus

— Very casual atmosphere. The dining area is almost like a “to go” deli. Warning: the drink selection is very limited (cans of pop and bottled water).

Don’t know what to order or where to start on such a diverse menu with possibly unfamiliar choices? No problem, The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax have a list of “must eats” that wont disappoint you. There are various spellings out there of the dishes below, but we will use the spellings on the Yaffa menu.

MUST EATS:

—MUSABAHA : The hardest thing about ordering it, is pronouncing it. It is a crushed chickpea puree, much like a hummus, with olive oil, lemon juice and spices mixed in. One of our favorite appetizers for sure. Dipping the pita bread served into this appetizer is one of life’s golden pleasures.

—EGGPLANT SALAD: The Big Ragu has seen his fair share of eggplant dishes. This was one of the most unique and delicious ones we have come across. Served cold, it is perfectly mixed with roasted peppers, tomatoes and vegetables. Excellent pairing with the pita bread, it is a meal in itself.

— YAFFA MIX GRILL: A sampling of 3 of the best shish kebabs in Dayton. The plate consists of a chicken shish kebab, steak kebab, and a beef/lamb mixed kebab. It is fun to watch the cooks prepare the kebabs on the huge skewers, over the open flame. We loved this dish. The grilled meat and vegetables make it a heart healthy choice.

Kufta Kebabs. Get the Mixed Grill and sample all 3 types of Kebabs

— THE HALF GRILLED CHICKEN: We don’t know how, but Yaffa Grill made a delicious chicken like we have never tasted before. The Mediterranean spices were marinated and infused into the chicken in some sort of delicious sauce/rub. The result was a lip smacking, moist, melt-in-your mouth experience. A definite ‘must eat.’

— BEEF SHAWERMA: Flame cooked lamb and beef, sliced from the meat rotesserie. We especially love dishes that are carved off of rotating spindles of meat. It is a tasty treat that explodes with flavor. When served in a wrap, it is a “Food Adventure on the go.”

Honorable Mention: Fatayer: a delicious bread stuffed with your choice of spices. Lentil Soup: Yeah, we never thought we would ever write this, but the lentil soup is amazing.

With so many great choices on the menu, it was hard to limit our ‘must eats.’ Even the “Baba Ghanouj” dip was some of the best we’ve had. If you like hummus, try it.

Dates, and other produce at Yaffi Market in West Carrollton

Yaffa Grill is a perfect place to experience a new culture and have your very own Food Adventure. It is a fascinating place for true foodies, and a sampling ground for those with an open mind, who are tired of the “same old thing.” Vegetarians love this place for the flavorful entrees! They even have a kids menu with hot dog, burger and chicken nuggets option.

Yaffa Grill does not have a website yet, or a Facebook page, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get some delicious food. Don’t forget that the West Carrollton location has a market with various hard to find imported groceries from far away lands. Canned goods, baked items, meats, nuts and even dairy products line the shelves. It is definitely worth a visit.

Make sure you get some grub at Yaffa Grill, The Food Adventure Crew cherish it as one of their favorite places in Dayton. We are addicted, and we think you will be too.

Here is something you wont see anywhere else online, the Yaffa Grill Menu —> PAGE 1 PAGE2 PAGE3 PAGE 4

Some of our best photos of the year are in the picture gallery below, so make sure you scroll through them to see all of the dishes that Yaffa Grill has to offer.

What’s almost as good as a freshly grilled Yaffa Kebab? The answer is “liking” Food Adventures on Facebook, by clicking HERE.

[flagallery gid=91]

Warped Wing & Jimmie’s Ladder 11 Team up for Food Adventure Event July 31st

June 12, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Dayton’s own brewery, Warped Wing!

It is time to “GET WARPED” at JIMMIES LADDER 11 in July, with a one-night-only, 5 course Food Adventure ! Mark your calendars for July 31st and get your tickets before they sell out !

Only Food Adventures could help deliver such a night. For the first time ever, Dayton’s own WARPED WING BREWING COMPANY will team with Dayton’s own Ladder 11 for and exclusive event!

For all of you who have always wanted to go on a full blown Food Adventure, here’s your chance!

WHAT FOOD: 5 Course dinner at JIMMIE’s LADDER 11. This meal will feature some special menu items, presented and paired, especially for this night.

WHAT DRINK: 3 beers on tap from Dayton’s WARPED WING BREWING CO. paired with 3 food courses and each attendee gets a Warped Wing souvenir pint glass !

MENU FOR THE NIGHT:

COURSE 1: Jimmie’s Homemade Gumbo

COURSE 2: The Cornerstone Salad paired with Ermal’s Belgian Cream Ale from Warped Wing

COURSE 3: Roast Beef Po’ Boy Sandwich paired with Warped Wing’s Flying Rye Pale Ale

COURSE 4: 10 Ton Pulled Pork Quesadilla’s paired with Warped Wing’s 10 Ton Stout

COURSE 5: Double Chocolate Cupcakes topped with 10 Ton Chocolate Gnache.

Jimmie’s Ladder 11, Five course meal, 1 night only

**** Also a SPECIAL AFTER DINNER KEG TAPPING of a NEW WARPED WING BEER – so fresh, we don’t even know yet what the brew will be! The tapping will feature special drink prices on pints !

You can also expect The Big Ragu to pass out some samples of a favorite Jimmie’s Food Truck item.

WHEN: THURSDAY NIGHT, JULY 31st at 6:30pm

COST: $30 per person (pre-pay only) and that includes the tip !!!! Tickets may only be bought online here. We are expecting another sellout, so get your tickets now !

WHAT ELSE: Door prizes, gift cards, t-shirt giveaways, souvenir pint glass, meet and greet with Jimmie and the Ladder 11 family, and a look at the brand new Jimmie’s food truck with The Big Ragu!

Don’t miss this unique, one-of-a-kind Food Adventure! See you at Jimmie’s in July !!

BUY TICKETS Now– limited seating available, when spots are gone, they are gone !

[flagallery gid=89]

New Vendors Opening at 2nd Street Market

June 6, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

This Saturday, June 7, the popular traditional outdoor farmers market officially opens at the 2^nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St. in downtown Dayton. Six produce vendor and one prepared foods vendor will join the more than 40 year-round indoor vendors to provide shoppers with even more options to purchase locally grown food. The outdoor vendors that will be at the Market this Saturday are:

• Garber Farms Mile Creek Farm (organic)

• Gypsy Chick Farm • Maple Run Farm

• Hungry Toad Farm (organic) • Shady Grove Farms

• Keiko’s Kettle Corn

In addition, three new Saturday-only vendors will join the 2nd Street Market mix:

• Grassroots Bison Ranch, located in New Paris, will sell grass-fed bison starting June 14. Grassroots Bison Ranch will offer individual cuts, including New York strips, ribeyes and tenderloins, along with ground bison.

• Oaked & Smoked will sell its packaged, frozen smoked salmon at the market starting June 7.

• Simply Sweet will produce handmade ice cream on site on Saturdays beginning June 7.

Other vendors may join the indoor and outdoor mix during the summer season. Visit the website or follow the 2nd Street Market on Facebook for updates. The 2nd Street Market is open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The 2nd Street Market was been named the Best Farmers Market on the 2014 Best of Ohio Readers’ Ballot from Ohio Magazine. The list of winners was generated by votes cast by Ohio Magazine’s website visitors this past fall.

“The 2nd Street Market helps Five Rivers MetroParks serve as the region’s conservation leader by providing our community convenient access to local food, which is less taxing on the environment and often healthier,” said Market Manager Jimmy Harless. “These new vendors will give our customers even more options for stocking their kitchens with locally grown and produced food. Many people know the 2nd Street Market is a great place to grab lunch and shop for gift, household, food and other items — and they are having a positive impact on our region’s natural heritage at the same time.”

Learn more about the 2nd Street Market at metroparks.org/localfood.

In Praise of Session Beers for Summer

June 5, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

We are officially past what I like to think of as “Big Beer Season” – winter through early spring – which brings us higher ABV brews such as winter warmers, imperial stouts, bourbon barrel-aged beers, imperial IPAs, and doppelbocks, to name some of the more prominent suspects. I certainly enjoyed my fair share of these, but now that summer weather has arrived, I find lighter beers (both in substance and alcohol content) to be more suitable. Enter the session beer.

An ABV level of 5% or less is a general guideline for defining a session beer. A session beer is perfect for those times when you want to enjoy several beers without feeling too full or having your senses dulled. While many of the available mainstream lagers meet this threshold for alcohol and can actually be pretty refreshing when nice & cold, they obviously are also lighter in flavor and are all very similar. But, since we craft beer drinkers appreciate flavor and variety, it’s good to know that there are other options.

Some traditional styles that fit the bill include kölsch, pilsner (Czech or German styles), Bavarian weizen/weissbier, Belgian wit and English mild. These can check in at under 5% ABV while still offering plenty of flavor. More and more craft brewers are making excellent interpretations of these styles. Ah, but even better, American brewers have really started to catch on to this need and demand for session beers and, in typical US fashion, this has involved stretching the boundaries of an existing beer style. Enter the “session IPA” which is somewhat of an oxymoron since traditional IPAs are brewed to slightly higher ABV levels. The session IPA dials that back below a typical craft brew, yet retains a generous hopping level. Pure genius, if you ask me.

So, here’s to enjoying some tasty yet lighter beers this summer. Get your session on!

by Bill Lau of potablepastime.wordpress.com
Courtesy of The Brew News

Hot House! Local Chef Heats Things Up With New Sriracha Sauce

May 30, 2014 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Dayton Chef LeeAnne House, with her Housemade Sriracha Sauce !

We’ve got the boss with the hot sauce right here! Want to heat up your Food Adventures at home? Then look no further.

Local chef, our own LeeAnne House has made her mark in the kitchens of upscale area restaurants. Now she is out on her own, with a new company called Housemade. Her first bottled product is a popular one, called Housemade Sriracha Sauce. She started experimenting with new sauces in her apartment kitchen and the batches grew, and so did the demand. Now she has taken her saucy self corporate.

Believe it or not, sriracha is a style of sauce, and not a brand name. We are all familiar with that plastic bottle with the rooster and green spout. This gives that sauce a kick in the pants.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— LeeAnne grew up in the food industry. Her parents at one time owned various restaurants like Lincoln Park Grille, Oregon Express, and others. LeeAnne worked her way up from bussing tables to chief hottie.

Bottles of Housemade Sriracha, Ready to be Labeled

— The sauce took a year and a half to perfect. Originally home cooked and home produced, she is now off to the big time with the same, natural recipe. Food Adventures have been trying her home batch sriracha sauces for months, so we are especially happy to see her recent success.

— This sauce won 1st prize in the 2014 Louisiana Cajun Hot Sauce Festival, for the best specialty chili sauce, and is being blogged about nationally from California to Nashville. Foodies and Food Adventurers agree, it’s fantastic!

— A bottle of this sauce goes a long way, good thing there is a 2 year shelf life.

WHY IS THIS SAUCE A MUST EAT?

— FLAVOR: That is the most important thing, right? Not just heat for the sake of heat, but good flavor is what a sauce is all about. Housemade Sriracha is sweeter, hotter and meaner than the sriracha you are used to. There is a good amount of tang and zing to get your tastebuds rolling.

— ALL PEPPERS in this sauce are Thai Chili Peppers, and the sauce has NO STEMS. This is huge, because most mass produced sauces have stems ground into them, thereby changing the flavor of the sauce. Housemade keeps the flavor truer to the pepper itself with the tedious process of stem removal.

— NATURAL INGREDIENTS: We wont give away the recipe, just read the side of the label for the natural ingredients. Did we mention it is vegan and gluten-free ?

— LOCALLY MADE – Whenever possible local ingredients are used, local farmers, and the sauce is assembled from Dayton to Chillicothe. Hello, support local, buy local. Expect different sauces from Housemade in the future !

The Big Ragu knows you can get Housemade Sriracha at Foremost Seafood

The Big Ragu knows where to get Housemade Sriracha, and now, you do too !

The Big Ragu loves the sauce on chili, shrimp, wings and anything mexican (nachos, tacos, tortas, burritos and sopes).

LITE BITES: Try the sriracha on egg white omelettes, roasted veggies, homemade vegetable soups, and quinoa.

Housemade Sriracha Sauce has made its way into local restaurants and has been appearing on specials at Lily’s Bistro, and pizzas at Oregon Express to name a couple. We expect more locally owned restaurants to follow this trend. In fact, the demand has been so good, that a second batch has already gone into production.

WHERE CAN YOU BUY THE BOTTLES OF HOUSEMADE SRIRACHA?

— Arrow Wine & Spirits

— Clash Consignments

— Eclectic Essentials

— Foremost Seafood

— Healthy Alternative Markets

— The Spice Rack

— Yankee Street Market

In more ways than one, it is the hottest product in Dayton. Housemade Sriracha, we love you, you hot thang you ….

Speaking of hotness, check out Food Adventures on Facebook and “like” them HERE

Also, see more of LeeAnne and her hot sauce in the photo gallery below!

[flagallery gid=90]

Dayton937

Mon 9

Tue 10

Wed 11

Thu 12

Fri 13

Sat 14

Sun 15

Versailles Poultry Days

Versailles Poultry Days

Versailles Poultry Days

Versailles Poultry Days

Versailles Poultry Days

Versailles Poultry Days

Bourbon on the street

Freakin Ricans Food Truck