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Activated Spaces Seeking Entrepreneurs to Open Pop-up Shops this Fall

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Customers receiving haircuts at Vintage Barbershop, one of the three Pop-up Shops that opened in May 2012.

Activated Spaces, an initiative to fill downtown storefronts, is accepting applications for temporary retail and service businesses to open downtown this fall as part of the third phase of its Pop-up Project. The project matches business owners and entrepreneurs with downtown property owners who have first-floor storefront space available for occupancy.

Interested retailers should fill out an application, which can be downloaded at www.activatedspaces.org, and email it to Sherri Wierzba at wierzba@downtowndayton.org. The application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, July 20. Tenants will be selected Aug. 6, and retailers must be ready to open no later than Friday, Sept. 14, in time for the fall Urban Nights.  

Lease lengths will range from three to six months. The spaces will have varying lease rates, but will be leased below market value. Activated Spaces volunteers will connect retailers with commercial property owners, help make the space move-in ready, and promote the business during such events as First Friday and Urban Nights. Selected businesses will negotiate leasing terms directly with the selected property owner, but flexibility for the tenant is a priority.

Activated Spaces volunteers hope to build on the success of the Pop-Up Project’s pilot and second phases. Two of the three businesses in the pilot phase ― Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St., and Peace on Fifth, 519 E. Fifth St. ― transitioned their temporary leases into traditional long-term ones. Also going strong are the three businesses that opened May 11 as part of the second phase of the Pop-Up Project: American Pi, 37 S. St. Clair St.; Arin, 27 S. St. Clair St.; and Vintage Barbershop, 110 W. Fifth St.

Guests browse the selection of jewelry at Pop-up Shop ARIN.

Commercial property owners interested in offering space to interested Pop-Up Shop owners should contact Sherri Wierzba at 937-224-1518. Participating property owners will be listed on the Activated Spaces website. Once a match is made, a limited amount of money is available to be distributed at the discretion of the Activated Spaces team for such purposes as offsetting utility costs, making cosmetic improvements to the space or other necessities for making the space operational.

Activated Spaces, a volunteer-led initiative spearheaded by young professional organizations Generation Dayton and updayton, has three main goals:

• reactivate and beautify vacant storefronts with creative displays

• encourage entrepreneurs, artists and community groups to occupy space for short- and long- term uses

• showcase downtown properties and increase interest and investment in available space

Activated Spaces is part of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, a strategic blueprint for the future of downtown. Those interested in volunteering with Activated Spaces should e-mail getinvolved@updayton.com.

Coopers’s Deli: The Big Apple Comes to Dayton

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Want to have a taste of the NYC in the DYT?  We know a Food Adventure spot that lights up our appetites like a sign on Broadway.   Cooper’s Deli recently opened in the Shoppes of Oakwood and is creating quite the buzz.  The restaurant specializes in New York Style deli sandwiches as well as  homemade soups, salads, a kids menu, and desserts.  In addition to top notch food, the restaurant offers delivery within a two mile radius, an incredible rooftop patio, beer, wine selections, wheelchair accessibility, and two levels of indoor seating.

The Pastrami Sandwich may be the star of the deli

The Big Ragu spoke with, co-Owner Dan Apolito who traveled to New York City on a “Deli” tour in 2011, tasting various meats and securing the best for Cooper’s Deli.  New Yorkers take pride in their deli’s and Apolito is bringing that mindset to Dayton.  Cooper’s Deli uses the same corned beef and pastrami that is used in the world famous Stage Deli in New York City.  The meats are shipped directly to Dayton from New York City.  The Corned Beef and Pastrami served here are not your typical run of the mill deli meats.  The proof is in the taste.

The Cooper’s Salad is loaded with everything under the sun, pulling no punches.

The pastrami melts in your mouth…you won’t get that at your local $5 sub shop.  Other sandwiches that we tried included: The Reuben which is quite possibly the best reuben that Dayton has to offer.  The Corned Beef is flavorful, plentiful and further proof of the quality of food that Cooper’s Deli is serving.  The Turkey sandwich is basically a mound of turkey breast stuffed between a layer of herbed goat cheese and cranberry-orange chutney on Challah bread.   Vegetarians may enjoy the Garden Grilled Cheese, which consists of four cheeses, artichoke, tomato, and spinach.  We would highly recommend all four sandwiches.

Every menu has a monster dish and Cooper’s is the “New Yorker Sandwich.”  This big sandwich sells for $15.50 and is large enough for two people, like most of their sandwiches.  The “New Yorker” consists of 12 ounces of pastrami and corned beef, sharp cheddar cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing, all on fresh marble rye bread.  For deli connoisseurs, this is the promise land.  How lucky we are to have the taste of Manhattan, Brooklyn, or the Bronx shipped fresh to Dayton via Cooper’s Deli.   These sandwiches are not only fresh, they are piled high and thick.  Be careful not to unhinge your jaw biting into one of these marvelous deli features.  Click here to view their entire menu.

The Huge “New Yorker Sandwich”: 12 ounces of NY Pastrami and Corned Beef

Make sure you get to Cooper’s Deli and dine on the patio overlooking downtown Oakwood, or take a taste of  Big Apple “to go.”   Either way, there is no place like Cooper’s Deli in Dayton, or in Ohio for that matter.

Have you been to the unique Cooper’s Deli ?  If so, please leave your Food Adventure feedback below !

CLICK HERE to “like” Food Adventures on Facebook !

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Dayton Fashion Week and the Dayton Dutch Lions Soccer Team to Bring Fans a Unique Half-Time Show

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The Dayton Dutch Lions Soccer games are about to get a lot more fashionable!!  On Friday June 29 the Dutch Lions will be taking on the Northern Virginia Majestic and welcoming the models from Dayton Fashion Week for a unique Half-Time presentation.   Fans are being asked to come to both the women’s and men’s game wearing their most fashionable outfits for a chance to win tickets to Dayton Fashion Week and a Spa Treatment at Beaute Box.

During the women’s game which starts at 5pm the models will be selecting kids from the Dutch Lions Youth Academy and kids from the crowd to be a part of a mini-fashion show and runway challenge during Half-Time.  The child that shows the most personality during their runway presentation will receive a pair of tickets to Dayton Fashion Weeks Kids Fashion Show taking place on Thursday July 26, 2012, the winner will be selected by team mascot Leo The Lion and models from Dayton Fashion Week.

Dayton Fashion Week models, staff, and volunteers are regulars at Dutch Lions Game.

For the men’s game which starts at 8pm, Leo and the models will be selecting the best dressed fans out of the crowd for a mini-fashion show and runway challenge during Half-Time as well.  The winner of the contest will receive a Spa Treatment at Beaute Box and a pair of Tickets to Dayton Fashion Week’s Ready To Wear Show on Friday July 27, 2012.

Both games takes place at The Miami Valley South Stadium located at 3737 Upper Bellbrook Rd, Bellbrook, Ohio, 45305. General admission ticket prices for kids are $6 and adult tickets prices are $12 for the game.  For more information about tickets and the Dayton Dutch Lions Soccer team please visit their website at http://www.daytondutchlionsfc.com/site/.  Tickets are also on sale for Dayton Fashion Week please visit their website at http://www.daytonfashionweek.com to purchase your tickets today!!

 

Food Adventures Invades the “Taste of Centerville”

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The 2nd annual “Taste of Centerville” happened on June 15 in the Heart of Downtown Centerville from 6-9 pm.  The event benefited Food4Summer, which is a charity started by partnerships between Centerville churches.  Food4Summer  furnishes nutritious meals to low income children in the Centerville area when school is out for the summer.

The Taste of Centerville started at the registration booth where we paid $20 each to sample items from various Centerville eateries.  Many local businesses opened their doors and offered discounts to participants of the event.  Centerville is the home of The Big Ragu, so we had to check out this event.  It was a classic Food Adventure, and the photos tell the story on this one.

Key Lime Pie Cupcakes from Sweet Dot’s Cupcakes in Cross Pointe Center.

 

It was a hot evening, but it did not stop us from hitting every food booth along the “Taste of Centerville.”   We walked the four corners of the event, emotionally eating our way through warm and cheerful Centerville.  There were a slew of vendors, but The Food Adventures Crew is here to sort them out for you.

Meadowlark Restaurant ‘s Hot Dogs with Slaw & a Spicy Relish .. Amazing taste!

Below is a list of each restaurant and our favorite food selections from each booth:

Meadowlark – Chef Wiley wowed the crowds with her spin on a Classic Slaw Dog.  A filling, refreshing taste at one of our favorite places on earth.

Sweet Dot’s Bakery Cafe – The friendly manager of this establishment gave us small Key Lime Cupcakes with Icing.  These tiny bites were terrific, with the homemade taste of love in every morsel.

Murray’s Cheese – This New York company sells its cheeses in Kroger.  We enjoyed the Aged Cheese Plate with 3 pieces of savory and delicate cheeses.  Great stuff !

Graeter’s served up samples of their light and refreshing Peach Ice Cream.

Savona – Offered a gourmet Grilled, Stuffed Free Range Chicken Skewer appetizer.  The chicken on the skewers were rolled in a way that it was like Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu on a stick.

LaRosa’s Pizza – We were pleasantly surprised with their fantastic Boneless Wings.  They had 3 great sauces that tickled our tastebuds.

Graeter’s Ice Cream – Refreshing Peach Ice Cream cooled us off on this evening.  Always busy, this Cincinnati company has a good following in Centerville.

Horton’s Hoagies – New family owned restaurant with fresh hoagies and subs.  We loved their Sub Samples, and are eager to visit this place !

The Melting Pot – They offered Chocolate Fondue with Strawberries and Rice Crispie Sticks.  Irresistible treats at this booth!

DiBella’s Old Fashioned Subs – Huge samples of Turkey and Ham Subs on various types of buns were stacked at this booth.  Big mouths needed for these big sandwiches.

Louisiana Grill’s Bourbon Chicken over Rice

Louisiana Grill – The friendly staff served out sample tastes of Bourbon Chicken Over Rice.  It was a rich and flavorful combination.

Johnny’s Slice of NY Pizza – Of course we loved another chance to taste a small slice of New York.  Owner Michele and her daughter served up delicious sample squares.

 

Unhinged – Not a food store, but they hand fed us tasty treats and told us home baked goodies are in the lobby from time to time.  Definitely a place to visit again!

City Barbecue – The Pulled Pork and Pulled Chicken station was phenomenal.  They had each of their BBQ sauces out, so you could drizzle your own topping to the slow cooked goodness.

Panera Bread – We enjoyed the Pastry and Cookie Display, and sampled some tasty homemade items.

Mama Disalvo’s – One of our favorite stops had a Salmon Rigatoni in a Creamy Tomato Sauce.  It was amazing how our samples were cooked to perfection.

Pulled Pork Sliders from Archer’s Tavern.. everything they serve is good!

Unique Celebrations Tea Room – Hospitality was second to none, and they had some Homemade Light Desserts that were simply dreamy.

Archer’s Tavern – Pulled Pork Sliders Topped with Slaw gave festival goers a great taste of a great eatery.  Even owners Dan Apolito and Mike Fullenkamp were on hand.

Sam’s Club – This station passed out bottled water, so we wouldn’t pass out from dehydration!

Sweeney’s Seafood – We tasted the wonderful Grilled BBQ Shrimp on the patio and met the new chef.  We could have eaten the entire display.

Smoothie King – The samples of Strawberry Smoothies were so good, that The Big Ragu dribbled some down his shirt.

Buffalo Wings and Rings – They walked around handing out samples of Garlic Parmesean Boneless Wings and Hot Buffalo Boneless Wings too.

The Hot Sex Roll from Kabuki. We ate a lot of these hoping to reap some kind of benefit.

Kabuki – Earlier in the month, we received a personal invite to the festival from Kabuki’s management, for which we are grateful.  This station was one of our favorite stops of the night.  The Hot Sex Sushi Roll and Playboy Sushi Roll were so good that it caused us to do erotic dance moves on the spot.

The Water Store – Ionized Water with a unique, fresh taste.  We loved the friendly staff and the great tasting ionized water that you can have in your home by purchasing their attachment.

Caribou Coffee – No coffee, but instead they gave out Sparkling Teas and Juices.  A most refreshing station on this night, so we went back for seconds.

The Big Ragu devoured this Jimmy John’s Turkey sub in record time

Jimmy John’s – Freshly wrapped Turkey and Ham Subs were given out by the friendly greeters.  The freshly shredded lettuce gives their sandwiches a nice crunch and flavor.

Whew!  What a FOOD ADVENTURE !!  It was nice to see a community get together for a great cause and enjoy some wonderful food.   THE BIG RAGU is looking forward to next year’s “Taste of Centerville.”

Were you at the June 15th event?  If so, please leave your thoughts and comments below!

Did you know Food Adventures has a Facebook page?  Click here to “like” the page

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Brixx Ice Company’s Menu is a Grand Slam

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Brixx Ice Company is much more than “that place across from the Dragon’s Stadium.”   Locals may be aware of their good beer tap selections and drink deals before the baseball games.  What most Dayton foodies don’t know, is that this place has a strong menu.  Brixx’s owner Chris Bhai keeps striding to bring fantastic food selections to go along with his restaurant’s fantastic patio view.  A self taught chef, Chris brings his spicy spin to traditional favorites, and hits a few home runs of his own with innovative menu items.    These meal selections are being gobbled up by hungry patrons and with summer in full swing, this eatery gets quite crowded.

Homemade, Hand Rolled Philly Cheese Steak Egg Rolls

 

The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax enjoyed a peaceful, sunny, Saturday afternoon recently on Brixx’s patio.  We sampled some Summer Shandy and the  newly acquired Third Shift Brewing Company draft choices.  Also sipped, was the new Angry Orchard Hard Cider by Sam Adam’s breweries.  As we enjoyed the day we ordered an appetizer that has become one of Brixx’s calling cards, gourmet egg rolls.  Egg rolls??  Yes, egg rolls.  Brixx hand wraps these homemade beauties in forms of interesting twists such as cheese steak egg rolls and vegetable curry egg rolls.  We went for the cheese steak egg rolls, which blew us away.   Served fresh and piping hot, the cheese and steak inside melted in your mouth.  They even served a side of cheese queso for dipping and it was pure cheese steak utopia.

” Mom !!! The Meatloaf !! “

Our special moment was interrupted by the owner and server telling us that we have to try the Kobe Meatloaf sandwich.  Meatloaf ??? Yes, meatloaf.  We took the leap of faith, and also decided to try another unique dish, Chicken Korma.  Chicken Korma is Brixx’s spin on an Indian dish and was inspired by the owner’s  father.  Both dishes were very tasty.   The incredible meatloaf sandwich has a glaze sauce that is sweet and spicy and it made the dish even more superb.  It tasted like an incredible burger.  We are hooked!

The Chicken Korma was a colorful and tasty dish.  It is thinly sliced chicken breast tossed in a curry masala.   The colorful dinner also includes corn, green beans and onions over a bed of rice.  It is flavorful with the perfect amount of heat.  It was also served with a few small pieces of naan bread.

Other Food Adventure favorites include Fire Bites (deep fried jalapeno slices), and of course the “Build your Own Brixx Burger.”   Hungry Jax  also enjoys the Chicago Beef Sandwich, homemade waffle fries and the breaded mushrooms.

A fantastic Indian dish called Chicken Korma

Brixx Ice Company has live music on Friday and Saturday evenings and some pretty good drink specials.   Who doesn’t love a great deal?  They have a pretty extensive cocktail menu, and of course one of the best patio dining areas in town.  Now you know, location is not Brixx’s only strength.  The owner has presented a new take on familiar menu items, and hit them out of the park!  Slide into Brixx Ice Company, a true Dayton original and check it out yourself.

Have you had a chance to visit Brixx’s Ice Company ?  Please leave your input below !

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Wonder Weaving – Culture Builds Community

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As I stood in a sunny alcove at Stivers School for the Arts, watching a group of young ladies arrive for the Culture Builds Community course (part of the Dayton Summer Arts Camp) it was easy to imagine the beautiful wonder weaving that would follow and the transformations that would take place.

Course descriptions can only take you so far. Words share the ideas, the tasks of the course, maybe something about what leaders hope will take place. Families sign up based on the descriptions that sound most engaging. Truth be told, it is more likely that the power of arts camp on individuals and groups is exactly what they don’t read in short pithy sentences, the stuff talked about but not yet in the room. Let’s call that “wonder”.

Merriam Webster defines wonder as something awesomely mysterious or new to one’s experience. See also: marvel, miracle. Yes. It’s that connection with something new, something that moves us. Wonder breeds transformation. The action of art, the doing what could only be described: this “other” connection, beyond the directions and the tasks: here is where a journey begins.

As the children entered the space for the CBC course, I watched their eyes wander from thing to thing on the presentation table. Day 1: sand mandala and dance styles from India. They sat in the bright, warm space, responding quietly to the greetings of their instructors. Slowly, the leader invited them into ceremony for the beginning of the Mandala. The cacophony of voices: kids, parents and teachers at registration tables had diminished, leaving, at this moment, the sound of Tibetan chimes and the quiet breathing of a new group of “wonderers”.

Next, the table, the paper, the pattern, each thing interesting in it’s own right, combined to be a receiver of color, texture and promise – the new moon mandala, appearing like magic out of sand, pigment and paper, carefully arranged by a group of children who knew nothing of each other, the artists or the process just 30 minutes earlier. On they went without lapse of attention, with intensity and calm. After an hour, it was time for dance. A short completion ritual of the day’s progress, a break and then into a large classroom, desks removed and space created for dancers.

Onward into the rhythmic, mysterious music of India, vibrant young women wearing beautiful fabrics, and more wonder! This bunch of campers, ranging from age 8 to 15, stood ready to learn. By the end of the first day, they had learned an entire Bollywood-style dance. Day two: they jumped right into Bhangra style dance, confident and full of pride. Transformation was well underway. These young ladies will join their teachers, dancing at the Cityfolk Festival, to the live music of Red Baarat!

A terrific first week ended in true, wonderous fashion, with the ceremonial destruction of the mandala (very moving), the distribution of sand to all the makers and a walk to the river to return the remaining sand to the natural world, flowing all the makers’ intentions throughout the city. I joined the group in their walk down to the river. The melancholy of sweeping away the mandala turned into a joyous celebration walk, culminating in an unexpected and magical way. When we arrived at Webster St. bridge and walked down the path to the water, the fountains came on, all of them, creating a brilliantly colored rainbow with cool, misty refreshment for the weary walkers as they gave the sand back to its source.

Wonder weaving: taking the threads of rich, new experiences that delight and shape us, weaving them together and building the vibrant fabric of our lives. When we share fabrics, one with another, the tapestry of community is woven. When tapestry upon tapestry, fill the rooms of our cities, states and countries, our world is unified: one big colorful house of wonder! May these young students at summer camp be inspiration for us to wonder weave. Culture Builds Community is for everyone. It’s the art of us!

 

The Root Beer Stande, Dayton’s Essential Part of Summer

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Every summer has a “must do” activity.  When it comes to food in the Dayton Area, one such tradition is The Root Beer Stande.  It has everything you could want in a Food Adventure.  There is nostalgia, fun, good eats, and great drink.  Located at 1727 Woodman Drive, this restaurant has been a Dayton summertime staple since at least the 1960’s.  Originally an A&W Root Beer Stand, it changed to The Root Beer Stande decades ago, delivering great, casual food ever since.  Gone are the rollerskating waitresses, but much has remained the same over the decades.

A Dayton Summer Tradition – The Root Beer Stande

This place is  a “Drive-in” where patrons drive up, park and are served in their vehicle by “car-hops” who work on tips, just like waitresses.  There is  car port parking where oldies tunes are heard overhead on a speaker system.   Parking is also available in various uncovered spots around the building.  It is a great dining experience, and the young staff is very friendly.  When they are busy, you may have to wait a little bit to get your food, so don’t go there if you are in a hurry.   The fun begins when you pull in, and one of the cute servers slaps a small plastic sheet on patron’s windshields with a serving number.  After your order is taken, make sure you roll your window up a third, so they can place the tray with your food on the window as an overhang.  One little known tradition is that putting your car headlights on lets the server know that you are ready to leave and need to have your tray removed.

Happiness in a Mug

The Big Ragu have been frequenting this establishment since 1973 and has some recommendations.  First and foremost, nothing beats one of their cold root beers on a hot summer’s day.  In our opinion, this is the star of the menu and of course their namesake.  Homemade root beer with an original taste is why we love it.  Our tip here is to make sure and order the root beer in a glass mug, because it just doesn’t taste as good in paper “to go” cups.  The root beer here is so good, that your Food Adventurers have been known to order a second mug during the meal.

The Big Ragu loves a good hot dog and The Root Beer Stande serves up some decent “short dog” and “footlong” options.  We usually get the footlong hot dog.  It is simple and the taste is a great memory from our childhood.   Various topping choices include mustard, relish, chili, ketchup, onions and more.  Grab one and enjoy the view.

The Big Ragu loves their hamburger options and usually grabs a “Ladyburger.”  Yes, we realize the name of this smaller hamburger may be a bit embarrassing, but The Big Ragu is in touch with his feminine side from time to time.   The Big Ragu also recommends that you try the deep fried mushrooms.  Beware, these breaded mushrooms are made to order and served hot, so do not scald yourself by biting into one of these crispy, yet juicy treats.

Nothing fancy – just an irresistible footlong topped with chili and onions

Other favorite menu items include Root Beer Floats and Onion Rings.  The two page menu can be viewed by clicking here for page 1 and here for page 2.   The Root Beer Stande is not just for summer anymore!  The owners have extended season hours, making this spot on Woodman Drive available almost year-round!

Take some time to make The Root Beer Stande your destination this summer.  Kids love this place, and the family, fun atmosphere promises to produce memories that will last a lifetime.   Summer may heat up, but you can always cool down at The Root Beer Stande with a mug of Root Beer!

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Have you been to Dayton’s favorite “Drive-In” Restaurant, The Root Beer Stande?  Please share some memories below!

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Sweeney’s Seafood House: Ocean Paradise!

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Grilled Blue Marlin

Sweeney’s Seafood House is revamping some things, while keeping old menu favorites.   Food Adventures spoke with one of the managing partners, Lisa Long, and learned Sweeney’s will be redecorating and even changing serving plates in the near future to keep up with the times.   Located in the heart of Centerville at the intersection of State Routes 725 and 48, Sweeney’s is one of the jewels of the Gem City.

Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu absolutely love this dining spot for many reasons.  Hungry Jax enjoys their flounder and other fresh fish dinners which are baked, deep fried, grilled or broiled.  Fresh seafood in Dayton, Ohio?  You bet!  The new kitchen chef is bringing in whole fresh fish, which he then carves into fillets for a fresher tasting product.  Chef House is also excited to try some of the daily specials such as the recently featured grilled blue marlin and homemade soups like lobster bisque.  The Big Ragu can also be found sampling the handful of unique draft beers like Bell’s Oberon Ale which are rotated regularly.

The Best Raw Oysters in America

The Big Ragu prefers to sit in Sweeney’s bar area for some appetizers and the before mentioned draft beers.  The Big Ragu says the best raw oysters he has ever had in his life are the “Raw Chokers” at Sweeney’s Seafood House.  Ragu has had oysters at Emeril’s restaurant.   Ragu has eaten oysters from Rhode Island to Florida and high scale places in Vegas, but these are the best.  These gigantic Chesapeake Oysters are served over ice, on the half shell for $2.49 each, and worth the price for an incredible treat.  The Big Ragu also recommends that you try their fried calamari.  It is hand cut into strips and hand breaded.  The calamari is some of the best you will ever eat and sometimes so large that you could mistake a piece for a chicken strip!  The bartenders Doug and Sam are fantastic and very attentive.   Some little known trivia is that the bar at Sweeney’s and the connected cabinets were purchased from the old Tequila Willie’s restaurant that was near the Dayton Mall.

Located in Centerville

There is definitely a buzz of energy in this place over the new owners with a fresh attitude.  The Big Ragu is excited to see what the new chef will be offering in the coming months.   We were also happy to learn that many of the favorite menu items will remain unchanged.  Sweeney’s remains an inviting place, with friendly service.  For the feel of a New England Seafood House right here in Dayton, give Sweeney’s a try.  Take our tips, or explore the menu as part of your own Food Adventure!

BREAKING NEWS!! Extended Hours !!  Sweeney’s will now be open every night of the week.  Restaurant hours will be 4pm – close Monday-Saturday and Sundays 11:30am – close.  The dinner menu each day will be accompanied by special features throughout the week.

You can check out Sweeney’s entire menu here, but it won’t have their daily specials which are too fresh to print!

Please become an official fan of FOOD ADVENTURES with THE BIG RAGU and CREW on FACEBOOK by clicking here and “liking” our page.
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PLEASE COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS ON SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE!!!

 

 

THROWDOWN ! June 9th: Voltzy’s vs. The Hamburger Wagon

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Legend vs. Legend… Icon vs Icon .. At the Rock N Green Tomato Festival in Miamisburg on Saturday, June 9th, their will be a battle of epic proportions.  Two Dayton burger favorites will battle it out in an Old Fashioned Throwdown, and Dayton will never be the same.   The match up is VOLTZY’s vs THE HAMBURGER WAGON !  They will go toe to toe in a brawl to settle it all, and each burger joint is depending on your vote!

To vote in this clash of the burger titans, you have to go the Rock N’ Green Tomato Festival, which is in downtown Miamisburg, near Ron’s Pizza.  The contest begins June 9th at 1pm.  Buy a burger from both places and cast your vote.  The winner will be announced sometime around 8pm.

The first three votes cast will be Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu, here they are….

HUNGRY JAX VOTE:    THE HAMBURGER WAGON is the best !  “The Hamburger Wagon” is a great display of simplicity in its finest form.  It doesn’t need to be masqueraded in sauces.  This crispy little burger is topped with pepper, a pickle, and an onion slice the size of a car’s hubcap.  The Hamburger Wagon has been serving up the best burgers for almost 100 years.  The Hamburger Wagon gets my vote !”  —Jax

THE BIG RAGU’S VOTE:   VOLTZY’S is the best !  “Voltzy’s melts in your mouth.  I love a burger that has good condiments and cooked onions.  Voltzy’s burgers are ground fresh everyday and never frozen, so it is a great tasting burger.  In fact, Voltzy’s is the best burger I have ever eaten!  Plus, you have to love the fact that each burger is cooked by the master himself, Voltzy!  I love them both, but VOLTZY’S gets my vote !!”— The Big Ragu

 

CAST YOUR VOTE  at the Rock  N Green Tomato Festival on Saturday, June 9th and be there when Voltzy’s and The Hamburger Wagon collide .

For more details on the festival, please visit rockngreentomato.com.

Feel free to leave your comments and thoughts below about this THROWDOWN!!

Become an official fan of CHEF HOUSE, HUNGRY JAX and THE BIG RAGU by visiting our FOOD ADVENTURES page on FACEBOOK and  “liking” us !!! Click HERE to do so !!

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Downtown Dayton’s River Run Project About To Become Reality

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Low dam removal

Less than one year after fundraising efforts began, the RiverScape River Run Project is almost fully funded.

The public and private sectors ― including businesses, foundations and individuals ― have contributed a combined $3.8 million to date to support the $4 million project, the next phase of development at RiverScape MetroPark.

“After a huge community input process, RiverScape River Run emerged as one of the priorities of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan, and this project will create a long list of benefits for downtown Dayton and the region,” said Dr. Michael Ervin, co-chair of the Greater Downtown Dayton Plan and Downtown Dayton Partnership. “Downtown Dayton’s economic development strategy is focused on strengthening the core of our entire region. This strategy hinges on creating an exciting downtown environment that will attract and retain the young, talented workforce needed to build Dayton’s new economy.”

Now, the community can be part of River Run. The public portion of the River Run fundraising campaign began June 1. To make a tax-deductible contribution in any amount, click here or call the Downtown Dayton Partnership at 937-224-1518 to receive a contribution form.

View from RiverScape

“Rivers always have been the lifeblood of great cities,” Ervin said. “RiverScape MetroPark has been so successful in bringing people to the river. Now, River Run will get people into the river. And it is only the first step in a comprehensive plan for future river development in our community. After we finish this project, we plan to look at further development of the entire length of our downtown river.”

Many cities across the country have invested in their waterfronts as a fundamental revitalization strategy and have seen a significant return on that investment. Those cities include ones that resemble Dayton, such as Oklahoma City, Okla.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; and Hartford, Conn. For example, Oklahoma City invested $54 million along the Oklahoma River and, according to city officials, has received a $700 million return on that investment. In Dayton, $38 million already has been invested in the riverfront since 1999. RiverScape River Run is the next step in Dayton’s investment.

RiverScape River Run includes the removal of a dangerous low dam and construction of two boulder-like structures spanning the Great Miami River. Each structure will have two passageways: one still water passageway for canoes and one whitewater passageway for kayaks. The project will create a regional recreation destination that also will allow people to fish, sunbathe and enjoy the river downtown. Construction on River Run is expected to begin in 2013, with completion in 2014. The remainder of this year will be spent finalizing designs, engineering and the permitting process.

Fundraising for RiverScape River Run began last summer with a $1 million challenge grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. Contributors to RiverScape River Run to date are: The CareSource Foundation, The Connor Group, Cox Media Group Ohio, The Dayton Foundation, Dr. Michael Ervin, Greater Dayton RTA, Heidelberg Distributing Company, Jacob G. Schmidlapp Trust ― Fifth Third Bank Trustee, Kettering Health Network, KeyBank, Mrs. Judy Lumby, The Meadwestvaco Foundation, Miami Conservancy District, Montgomery County, PNC, Premier Health Partners, The Schiewetz Foundation, Sinclair Community College, Thompson Hine, The Vectren Foundation and The Virginia W. Kettering Foundation.

Proposed Improvements (click to view full size)

The Greater Downtown Dayton Plan is a multipronged economic development initiative and strategic blueprint for Dayton’s center city launched in May 2010. Greater Downtown is one of two regional centers of economic activity for the Dayton region, with approximately $5 billion a year in regional economic impact. A vibrant, thriving center city is crucial to the prosperity of the City of Dayton and Dayton region. The Greater Downtown Dayton Plan calls for building on downtown’s strengths to create the type of vibrant, bustling city increasingly in demand today.

Food Adventures visits The Market on Wilmington Pike

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The Market on Wilmington Pike

Summer is a great time to have a cold beer or glass of wine on a deck or patio.  It is also a time of enjoying a good cigar while outside golfing with friends or just relaxing.  We found a nice little Food Adventure spot where you can get wine, beer, cigars, Greek specialties and more.  It is called The Market and is a family owned and operated shop on Wilmington Pike in Kettering, not far from Rahn Rd.  The place is not huge, but it is packed with a wide variety of beer, wine and cigar selections.
Owner George Karras says the best way to check out their special offers is to visit their website here.  We saw some interesting things that were “off the beaten path.”  We also discovered that this Mom and Pop place can help place special orders for  “hard to find items!”

Beer at The Market: Too many brands to choose from?  The Market has mix and match specials.  Certain unique beers this month are $4.99 for each 6-pack and $3.99 for each 6-pack if you order a case.  There are beers in almost every nook and cranny of this store.  There is also a walk-in “Beer Vault” keeping brews ice cold at 33 degrees.   The Big Ragu picked up a rare treat in a 32 ounce Sol Beer Bottle from Mexico for only $1.99.

Wine at The Market:  Through buying various close-out specials, The Market is able to offer good wines at good prices.  Again, it is all about selection here.  The staff is knowledgeable and can help sort out the various offerings.

Cigars at The Market:  Want variety? There are 400+ cigar choices in the walk-in humidor.  There are also close-out bundles, and specials that made us do a double take.  We even found a few good stogey choices for under $2 each!  Any of your cigar questions are easily answered by longtime employee Russell, who will bend your ear about his favorites and steer you towards some good “sticks.”

Greek Specialties at The Market:  The Karras family is very involved in the Dayton Greek Festival, and you may recognize George from the festival band.  The Market gives George a chance to showcase some Greek Specialties that are rare finds in the Dayton area.  First off, there are Gyro Kits for under $10.  The Market also has homemade tzadziki sauce for sale that is  made with goat’s milk-yogurt.  Other Greek goodies include Mytzithra, Kefalotiri, Kefalograviera, and Kasseri which are all cheeses made with sheep or goat’s milk.  This  is definitely Food Adventure material.

The Market is a great place to run in and out, or to take a half hour and explore.   It is a unique place with unique offerings.   Grab a gallon of milk, or a Hefeweizen beer.  There is no other place like it in Dayton.  What impresses us most about The Market is the affordable selection.  Good deals on good products throughout the store.  This Market is definitely one worth checking out.

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Have you been to The Market?  Tell us about your experience by commenting below!

 

“Oz-some” Downtown Deals for Wicked Patrons

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Follow the yellow brick road to Wicked Deals in downtown Dayton!

Broadway blockbuster Wicked flies into the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center May 30 through June 24, and downtown Dayton is getting into the Emerald City spirit. Many downtown businesses are planning special deals, promotions and activities for the estimated 73,600 people heading downtown for the show.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s Wicked Deals Web page has a complete listing of promotions for those off to see the musical, as well as parking information and more. This year’s deals are:

Dining and Nightlife
• Blind Bob’s: 430 E. Fifth St., 937-938-6405 ― Receive 10 percent off food when you present your Wicked ticket and enjoy a special Wicked-themed appetizer.

• Boston Stoker: 34 W. Second St., 937-223-1224 ― Try special Wicked-themed desserts and coffee drinks.

• Boulevard Haus: 329 E. Fifth St., 937-824-2722 ― Get 10 percent off food when you present your Wicked ticket.

• Citilites: 109 N. Main St., Schuster Center Wintergarden, 937-222-0623 ― Enjoy wickedly refreshing Melon Mojitos and chef specials, including tempura fried soft shell crabs with Glinda’s roasted green tomato buerre blanc.

• Coco’s Bistro: 515 Wayne Ave., 937-228-2626 ―Featuring $5 Wicked-themed cocktails and appetizers, along with 15 percent off food when you present your Wicked ticket.

• Crowne Plaza Hotel Rooftop Restaurant: 33 E. Fifth St., 937-224-0800 ― Featuring half-price light meals, snacks and desserts nightly starting at 10 p.m. for the “10 O’clock Cast Party.” Bar service continues through midnight on weekdays and until 2:30 a.m. on weekends. The restaurant also will premiere two Wicked-themed cocktails: the “Good Witch” and the “Bad Witch.”

• Dayton Racquet Club: 40 N. Main St., 29th floor, 937-224-4381 ― A three-course dinner will be offered starting at 5:30 p.m. for $35 per person plus tax and gratuity. Wicked ticket holders who are not members of the Dayton Racquet Club will be extended a “Member for a Day” pass. The club is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday and is closed on Sunday and Monday. Reservations are required.

• De’Lish: 139 N. Main St., 937-461-2233 ― Featuring three specialty themed drinks (the Oz-Mopolitan, Wicked Tea and Emerald City Martini), along with themed menu items, no cover for Friday and Saturday night entertainment and 10 percent off food, including the Sunday brunch buffet, when you present your Wicked ticket.

•The Dublin Pub: 300 Wayne Ave., 937-224-7822 ― Try a spooky Wicked martini made with Absolut lemon vodka, Midori melon liqueur, lemonade and a cube of dry ice. Additionally, enjoy 20 percent off food when you present your Wicked ticket.

• Jay’s Seafood Restaurant: 225 E. Sixth St., 937-222-2892 ― Offering 10 percent off all food.

• Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery: 520 E. Fifth St., 937-222-6800 ― Get 10 percent off food when you present your Wicked ticket for the same day’s performance.

• Olive, an urban dive: 416 E. Third St., 937-222-3483 ― Featuring extended hours throughout the month of June. Open 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Also open for brunch Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; weekdays for lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Sa-Bai: 200 S. Jefferson St., 937-535-2900 ― Enjoy a special Wicked-themed cocktail for $4.95 and 20 percent off food.

• SideBar: 410 E. Fifth St., 937-723-9415 ― Offering 15 percent off food.

• Thai 9: 11 Brown St., 937-222-3227 ― Get 15 percent off food when you present your Wicked ticket.

• Uno Chicago Grill: 126 N. Main St., 937-910-8000 ― Featuring two special Wicked-themed drinks for $4.99 each, in addition to a special menu for Wicked patrons.

Other Deals
• Basho Apparel: 521 E. Fifth St., 937-767-9006 ― Get 20 percent off one item per day when you show your ticket.

• Beaute Box: 116 W. Fifth St., 937-903-3165 ― Offering 25 percent off any service.

• Dayton Art Institute: 456 Belmonte Park North, 937-223-5277 ― Enjoy $9 admission to one of three special exhibits when you present a Wicked ticket: “Changing Landscapes: Contemporary Fiber Art,” or “Maya Lin: Flow,” on display through June 17, or “Stephen Knapp: Light Paintings,” from Oct. 6 through Jan. 6, 2013. The DAI also will display its own wicked witch for a limited period of time. Stay tuned to www.daytonartinstitute.org for details and dates.

• Human Race Theatre Company: 138 N. Main St., 937-228-3630 ― Present a Wicked ticket for 20 percent off adult tickets to the new musical Band Geeks! at the Loft Theatre, May 31 through June 17. Purchase tickets at the Schuster Center box office or order online at www.ticketcenterstage.com and use the special price code “geeks” at checkout. Limit four tickets per order.

• Jimmy Modern: 605 E. Fifth St., 937-520-3782 ― Take 10 percent off your purchase with a Wicked ticket.

• My Father’s House Childcare and Learning Center: 35 S. Jefferson St., 937-297-0477 ― Offering drop-off childcare during Wicked performances, with discounts available to parents who enroll in a weekly childcare program. Drop off will begin at 6:15 p.m. and end at 11:15 p.m., with registration from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Services available from May 30 to June 2, June 5 to 8, June 12 to 15 and June 19 to 23.

• Peace on Fifth: 519 E. Fifth St., 937-367-7215 ― Get 10 percent off your purchase when you present your Wicked ticket, day of the performance only. Peace on Fifth Facebook fans will receive 15 percent off their purchase when they present a Wicked ticket the day of the performance, as well as up to two days afterward.

Tickets still are available for Wicked, the “untold story of the witches of Oz.” To purchase tickets and for more information on the show, visit the Victoria Theatre Association’s website.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s Web site, www.downtowndayton.org, has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a calendar of events, complete dining guide, parking map and much more.

BW3 Introduces Breaded Chicken Wings to Dayton Area

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NEW ! Breaded Wings at BW3

Hey Food Adventure fans, we have a tip for you!  For a limited time only, in the Dayton area, Buffalo Wild Wings (formerly BW3) has added a breaded wing option to their menu.  Chef House, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu took a moment to try them, and we think they are great !  They are a cross between KFC’s hots wings, and BW’3 boneless wings.  Curiously, these wings have only one bone, not only the “drums” but the “flappers” too!  This makes for easy eating.

Breaded wings may be ordered in any sauce, or ordered dry with a side to dip.  Any way you fry them up, we think they are pretty good.   According to Buffalo Wild Wing’s Website, the breaded wings will not be a permanent menu item, and are only available in a few select cities.  Try them out for yourself, and let us know what you think.   May we suggest a large draft beer to help tune up your taste buds, or put out that spicy fire on your tongue.  Are you unfamiliar with Buffalo Wild Wing’s sauces?  Food Adventures recommend the Spicy Garlic, Sweet BBQ or Asian Zing sauces as our three favorites.

If you have tried the breaded wings option at BW3, please comment below and tell us your opinion.

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Kabuki: Colorful Plates, IncredibleTastes

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Sushi is probably one of the most beautiful foods that you will ever eat.  Whether cooked or raw, nothing beats the taste of freshly made sushi.  Chef House, Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu know two types of people, those who love Kabuki Korean & Japanese Restaurant in Centerville, and those who have not been there.  In a small, stand alone building on 848 S. Main St, Kabuki offers up Korean and Japanese specialties with an extensive and inventive menu.  They make great fresh food, and they do it right.

The Rock n Roll Sushi Roll, beautiful and delicious

Jax loves to indulge in the “Rock n Roll” sushi roll.  This colorful display consists of flying fish roe, shrimp tempura, crab, & cream cheese deep fried then topped with three kinds of sauce.  Definitely one of the most flamboyant and tasty dishes you will ever have.  Chef House enjoys the “Boston Roll.”  This is a simple sushi roll combining the tastes of cooked shrimp, lettuce, avocado and cucumber with Japanese mayo sauce.

The Spider Roll at Kabuki Korean and Japanese Restaurant

The Big Ragu would recommend you try the “Spider Roll”, which is made with Soft Shell Crab for an extremely delicate and a rare tasty treat.  Is fresh raw sushi your gig?  If so the Big Ragu would recommend the salmon, tuna or any sashimi listed on their menu.

This restaurant serves miso soup or spicy noodle soup with entrees and sushi dinners.

Kabuki has much more than just sushi or soup. They offer a Japanese Dinner menu with Teriyaki dishes and many more entrees.  Kabuki also features a Korean Menu with noodle specialties and other dinners like Hue Dup Bop.   Sounds like a Hanson song, but instead it is mixed raw fish and vegetables over steamed rice served with Korean sweet & spicy sauce.

The common denominator of the menu items is that they are fresh, tasty, and presented well on your plate.  Every time we have been to Kabuki, the servers were friendly and attentive.  Check out this family owned restaurant for a romantic date, or a fun culinary experience.   It may be a small place in size, but Kabuki delivers big on flavor.  We cannot think of a better place for a true  FOOD ADVENTURE!

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Have  you been  to Kabuki?  Please  share your opinions below !!

 

Dayton Fashion Week’s Salute To The Troops!

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Dayton Fashion Week will be debuting a fashion/lifestyle magazine magazine in July–though it will be geared and promoted towards a national audience the first edition will be dedicated to the people of Dayton because we wouldn’t be where we are today without you all!! We will be highlighting, local models, designers, artist, entertainers, business owners, community leaders, and etc.
For those of you who don’t know Junda Morris-Kennedy, the Founder of Dayton Fashion Week  recently relocated to the Dayton Area when her husband who is in the U.S. Air Force received new orders to be stationed at Wright-Patt Air Force Base, we have several models who have served our country including William Willet who was in the Marine Corp., Nakiesha Maroney who is currently stationed at WPAFB, our  makeup artist ShaTerra Mills served in the Army, and I personally come from a military family as well, my dad was a Drill Sergeant in the Marines, my oldest brother was in the Army and served in the first Gulf War, my oldest sister was in the Navy, and my older brother is currently a Master Sergeant in the Marines and is serving in Afghanistan. So as you can see we have nothing but love and respect for our service men and women.
One of the highlights of the  first edition of Dayton Fashion Weeks magazine(whose name will be revealed in June) will be a salute to our troops and a feature story on how WPAFB has played a vital role to the Miami Valley’s growth!  We are looking to profile several active duty members of the U.S. Air Force who are currently stationed at WPAFB along with other local service men and women! If you or someone you know would like to be a part of DFW’s Salute To The Troops feature story please send an email to Caressa.L.Brown@gmail.com. Please include your contact information and a brief bio.  We look forward to hearing from you!!

Homemade Goodness at Sunrise Cafe

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In order to retain our sanity, Food Adventures must leave the “bubble” of the suburbs and get back to food basics.  The village of Yellow Springs, Ohio is the perfect destination to achieve this feat.  Yellow Springs has scenic parks to hike, eclectic shops to explore, and some of the tastiest eateries to fill a belly.  One of our favorite places to eat is the Sunrise Cafe.  Located at 259 Xenia Avenue, Sunrise Cafe offers a full service menu which also includes a kid’s menu.  The quality of food is exceptional due to the fact that they use local produce and don’t own a deep fryer or microwave.  The small dining room is usually pretty packed, so the virtue of patience might have to be drawn up.  Keep in mind…….homemade food takes time to prepare and it’s worth it!

 

We decided to try the Huevos Rancheros which can be ordered in a half or full size portion.  Corn tortillas, black beans, two eggs (with the yolks intact!), salsa, and sour cream.  There is nothing better than breaking the yolk and opening the flood gates onto the black beans for a tasty combination.  The other dish  we tried was the breakfast sandwich which contained local eggs, cheese, and sausage on a homemade english muffin.  No fast food restaurant’s breakfast sandwich can compare!  Higher quality produce and your hands are not dripping with grease!  The sandwich also came with a side of breakfast potatoes which complimented it perfectly.

 

 

Breakfast Sandwich with local Eggs, Cheese, & Sausage on a homemade English Muffin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Try the Sunrise Cafe the next time you venture to Yellow Springs, Ohio and taste the difference of good, local produce!

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Check out the full menu and weekly specials from Sunrise Cafe by clicking here![album: http://www.daytonmostmetro.com/wp-content/plugins/dm-albums/dm-albums.php?currdir=/wp-content/uploads/dm-albums/SunriseCafe/]