Lisa Grigsby

Saluting Our Veterans with Meal Deals All Over Town

November 10, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Once again this year, many restaurants are offering FREE or discounted breakfasts, lunches, and dinners to our military service men and women on or around Veterans Day: Monday, November 11. While you’re there, be sure to thank these restaurants for offering free/discounted food to the brave military men and women who serve our country. If you qualify, be sure to take advantage of these 2013 Veterans Day breakfast, lunch and dinner meal deals, and thank you for your service!

Applebee’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Military veterans and active-duty Service Members will be able to eat free at any Applebee’s across the U.S. on Veterans Day. Guests can choose from 7 delicious entrées: 7 Ounce House Sirloin, Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger, Chicken Tenders Platter, Oriental Chicken Salad, Three-Cheese Chicken Penne, Fiesta Lime Chicken, or Double Crunch Shrimp.

Arby’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Arby’s is offering a free Classic Roast Beef sandwich to veterans and active duty military personnel on Veterans Day. Just show up in uniform or bring proof of U.S. military service. Not all locations are participating, so call ahead and ask before heading out.

Bar Louie – Sunday, November 10, 2013 & Monday, November 11, 2013 -But Bar Louie is offering veterans and active military members a free lunch or dinner on Sunday, November 10 and Monday, November 11. Offer valid for any food item up to $12.00 value. Beverages and gratuity are not included. Proof of military service is required.

BD’s Mongolian Grill November 11-15, 2013 – Veterans and military personnel are invited to enjoy BD’s Stir-fry meal at 50% off the regular price. This offer is valid the week of Veterans Day: November 11 – 15, 2013 for both veterans and active military personnel. Valid military ID or proof of service is required.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Enjoy a free appetizer on Veterans Day. No purchase necessary. Valid for both veterans and active military personnel who show up in uniform or show proof of military service.

Champps Americana – Monday, November 11, 2013 – All veterans and current military members can receive a free burger and waffle fries. Choose the Champps Cheeseburger, Carolina, Shroom, The Guac, Firehouse, Chipotle BBQ, or the Bleu burger. Offer valid for dine-in only. Valid military ID or proof of military service required.

Chili’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Veterans and active duty military choose one free meal from the Veterans Day special menu: Margarita Grilled Chicken, OldTimer with Cheese, Chicken Crispers, Classic Turkey Sandwich (full), Lighter Choices Grilled Chicken Salad, Soup & Salad Combo (does not include Bottomless Express Lunch), any flatbread, any lunch combo, or any 9″ pizza.

Denny’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Free all you can eat pancakes for veterans and active military personnel with valid military ID or proof of military service.. Hours are from 6:00AM-2:00PM

The Donut Haus Sunday, Nov. 10, and Monday, Nov. 11, any veteran with proper ID can pick out any one bakery item in the Springboro shop’s display case and any beverage at no charge, and can also receive 50 percent off any one dozen doughnuts on both days, with a limit of one dozen.

Fox and Hound – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Veterans and active military members enjoy a free sandwich or entree up to $13 value. Please show your valid military ID or proof of military service.

Friendly’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Friendly’s is offering a free Big Two Do breakfast and coffee to veterans and active military members. Offer valid until 11:00AM at participating locations. Valid military ID or honorable discharge card is required.

Golden Corral – Monday, November 11, 2013 – The 13th annual Golden Corral Military Appreciation dinner will be held from 4:00-9:00PM at all Golden Corral Restaurants nationwide. The free “thank you” dinner is available to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to participate in Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday dinner.

Hooters – Monday, November 11, 2013 – All veterans and active military personnel can receive a free meal up to $10 value with purchase of a drink on Veterans Day. Valid for lunch or dinner. Dine-in only.

Krispy Kreme – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Veterans and active military personnel receive a free breakfast: one doughnut and a small coffee. Not all locations are participating, so please call ahead before heading out.

Little Caesars – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Current military personnel and veterans receive a free order of Crazy Bread. Offer valid at participating Little Caesars pizza locations.

Longhorn Steakhouse – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Both veterans and active military personnel can enjoy a free Texas Tonion and non-alcoholic beverage. Valid proof of military service is required.

Lone Star Steakhouse – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Veterans and current military members will receive a Buy One Get One FREE entrée of their choice on Veterans Day. Dine-in only. Valid military ID is required to take advantage of this offer.

Max & Erma’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Free Best Cheeseburger in America Combo to all past & present U.S. military members. Includes choice of Tortilla Soup or side house salad, French Fries, and a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie. Dine-in only.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants – Sunday, November 10, 2013 – McCormick & Schmick’s is celebrating their 15th annual Veteran’s Appreciation Event on Sunday, November 10. Guests can choose a complimentary lunch or dinner entrée from the special Veterans Day menu: Salmon Rigatoni, Buttermilk Fried Shrimp, Cedar Planked or Grilled Salmon, Blackened Chicken Fettuccine, Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Beer Battered Fish & Chips, Cashew Crusted Tilapia, Tender Beef Medallions, Romano Chicken Chopped Salad, or a McCormick’s Cheeseburger. Please show proof of military service.

O’Charley’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 – O’Charley’s is providing a free Veterans Day lunch or dinner for veterans and active military personnel with valid military ID. Choose any item from O’Charley’s $9.99′er menu. Please bring your military ID or proof of military service to take advantage of this offer.

The Olive Garden – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Olive Garden is offering a free entree on Veterans Day to all veterans and active duty military members. Choose from Seafood Alfredo, Chicken Parmigiana, Unlimited Soup Salad & Breadsticks, Braised Beef & Tortelloni, Cheese Ravioli, or Spaghetti & Meatballs. All entrees include garlic breadsticks and choice of homemade soup or garden-fresh salad.

Outback Steakhouse – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Outback Steakhouse is honoring America’s military veterans by offering active duty military and veterans a free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage on Monday, November 11. Plus, receive Outback’s Military Mate 10% discount on meals from November 12-December 31.

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Enjoy a free Magnificent Seven meal on Veterans Day. Includes 2 eggs served the way you like, 3 buttermilk pancakes, and your choice of 2 bacon strips or 2 sausage links. Offer valid for veterans and active service members. Please bring valid ID or proof of military service.

The Pub at the Greene– As a thank you for their service, we are offering a 50% discount to all active & retired military members on 11/11(excludes alcohol).

Red Lobster – November 11-14, 2013 – Veterans and active military personnel get a free appetizer. Choose from Spicy Buffalo Chicken Bites, Lobster Pizza, Sweet Chili Shrimp, Crispy Calamari & Vegetables, Lobster Artichoke and Seafood Dip, Lobster Crab and Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms, Parrot Island Coconut Shrimp, Crispy Fried Green Beans, Mozzarella Cheesesticks, or Chilled Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail. Proof of military service is required to take advantage of this offer.

Red Robin – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Free Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries for all veterans and active military personnel. Valid military ID or proof of service is required to get this deal.

The Spaghetti Warehouse – November 10-11, 2013 – Buy One Get One FREE this Veterans Day Weekend. Choose Lasagne or any Original Spaghetti Entree. Both are served with sourdough bread and your choice of soup or salad. Available for either lunch or dinner. This offer is available to everyone, not just veterans and active military personnel.

Subway – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Many Subway restaurants are offering a free six inch sub to military veterans on Veterans Day. However, Subway restaurants are franchises, so this offer is only available in certain locations. Please contact your local Subway for more information regarding their specific Veterans Day specials.

Texas Roadhouse – Monday, November 11, 2013 – Free lunch or dinner for veterans and active military on Veterans Day. Hours are from 11:00AM-10:00PM. Choose from 10 free meals plus a side order and choice of beverage. Valid military ID required.

T.G.I. Friday’s – Monday, November 11, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Valid on select lunch menu items only. Proof of military service is required. Beverages are not included unless an eligible lunch combo is ordered. Offer includes a free entree & beverage.

Tim Hortons – Monday, November 11, 2013 – All Tim Hortons locations are offering a free doughnut to veterans and active military personnel on Veterans Day. Of course, the Tim Hortons Star Spangled Donut is included! Not valid at Tim Hortons restaurants in Canada.

UNO Chicago Grill – Monday, November 11, 2013 – UNO offering a free entree or individual pizza with an entree or individual pizza purchase of equal or greater value. Offer good for all veterans and active duty service members with valid military ID.

If you know of any deals we’ve missed, please add them to the comment section below.

Harvest Party at Lily’s Bistro

November 7, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Just in time to help you plan your holiday entertaining, Lily’s Bistro in the Oregon District is throwing a casual tasting party on Thurs, Nov 14th from 6 -8pm. Lily’s General Manager Emily Mendenhall says, “this will be a fun, easy going way to try some wines, tasting can sometimes be stuffy, and that’s so nut us.”

They will be featuring six wines paired with six seasonal snacks that will allow you to find the perfect wine to serve at home for your celebrations. Staff will b on hand to help advise you on what wines will best compliment your holiday menu. Once you choose your favorites, you’ll even be able to purchase them right there at retail prices. You’ll want to pick up your ticket in advance, they are $30, and it’s a great excuse to stop by the bistro and treat yourself to lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch!

Here’s a tip from DaytonDining on knowing how much wine to have on hand for your holiday meal:

A safe rule of thumb is to figure that each guest will consume one to two drinks per hour. If you’re focused on wine and not serving cocktails before dinner, assume you’ll need enough for an hour of appetizers before dinner (in case that turkey takes a little time getting up to temperature or Aunt Mary arrives late.) Then consider years past: did dinner last 20 minutes and then everyone went back to the football game? Or did Uncle Bob tell stories for so long that everyone ended up eating third and fourth helpings? Are you day-drinkers (and eaters) or is dinner after sundown?

Multiply the number of hours you plan to entertain times the number of guests times two drinks per guest, and you’ve got the number of glasses of wine you might need. If you’re serving standard 750-mL bottles, it’s safe to assume you’ll get about four glasses per bottle, so divide your glass number by 4 to find out how many bottles you need.

Got that? Guests x hours x 2 = glasses.
Glasses / 4 = bottles.

So if you’re hosting eight people and planning to have a half hour of pre-dinner snacks followed by a dinner that lasts about an hour and a half, figure 8 people x 2 hours x 2 drinks per hour = 32 glasses / 4 glasses per bottle = 8 bottles.

DaytonMostMetro.com will be sending 2 guests to Lily’s Harvest Party. If you’d like to enter our random drawing to win, like and share this post and fill out the entry form below: [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Restaurants open on Thanksgiving

November 7, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby 2 Comments

If you are looking for a list of 2015 Restaurants open on Thanksgiving click here.

Do you want a nice dinner on Thanksgiving, but don’t want to spend time cooking and doing all the dishes yourself? Then take the family out to eat. Many restaurants even have a leftovers option so you can have a turkey sandwich later.

We are in the process of updating this list for 2013:

Carvers Steaks & Chops
1535 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton, OH 45459 (937) 433-7099 noon to 7pm
Traditional Turkey Dinner $19, Kids Meal is $12, regular menu also available

C’est Tout Bistro 2600 Far Hills Avenue, Kettering (937) 298-0022 noon – 6pm
Three Courses for $28, choice of 3 appetizers, 3 entrees and 3 desserts, reservations suggested

Champps Restaurant and Bar
7880 Washington Village Drive, Washington Twp. (937) 433-2333 noon to 10 pm
regular menu and traditional Thanksgiving meal, $18.99 per person, reservations accepted.

Cracker Barrel
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, (937) 432-2431, 6am – 10pm
7171 Miller Lane, Butler Twp, (937) 890-0047; 6am to 10 pm
Turkey and traditional sides. No reservations taken

Giuliano’s Tavern
67 S. Main Street, Miamisburg (937) 859-3000 11:30 to 7pm
Serving fresh roasted turkey, dressing, giblet gravy, fresh cranberry sauce, vegetable/salad, homemade pumpkin pie and homemade southern pecan pie.
Many popular entrees from our regular menu will also be available, reservations accepted

Golden Corral
2490 Commons Boulevard, Beavercreek (937)431-7300 10am – 8pm,
8870 Kingsridge Drive, Dayton Mall (937)312-2400 10am – 8pm
6611 Miller Lane, Vandalia (937)264-3300 10am – 8pm
Turkey and traditional sides. No Reservations. $12.99, not including tax or beverage.

Hasty Tasty
509 Linden Ave., Dayton, (937) 254-8431; 5 am to 6 pm
Thanksgiving dinner specials, no reservations. Cost: $8.95, includes dessert.

Max & Erma’s
3 area locations: Miller Lane, Fairfield Commons, Springboro 11am – midnight
Thanksgiving Dinner $14.99 includes turkey, mashed potatoes, apple pecan stuffing, side of green beans, cranberry sauce and choice of salad or soup and slice of pumpkin cheesecake.

McCormick and Schmick’s
4429 Cedar Park Drive at The Greene, Beavercreek (937) 431-9200 noon to 8 pm
regular menu and Thanksgiving meal, which runs $24.95, reservations suggested

Mimi’s Cafe
4402 Walnut St. in The Greene in Beavercreek, (937) 426-9153; 8am – 8pm
regular menu and traditional Thanksgiving dinner, reservations accepted

Neil’s Heritage House
2323 W. Schantz Ave, Kettering, OH (937) 298-8611 Seatings at noon, 3pm and 6pm
A fantastic buffet of traditional thanksgiving favorites and a few modern twists:
Turkey & Ham, cornbread, sausage and pecan dressing, roasted brussel sprouts, grean bean casserole, corn pudding, pear and bleu cheese salad, macaroni -n- cheese, cheddar mashed potatoes, cranberry relish, rolls, pumpkin pecan and apple pie. Cost: $28.95 adults $15 kids under 4 free

Starlite Restaurant & Diner
2627 South Smithville Road, Dayton OH (937) 254-5000 open 7am -9pm
Offering their regular menu.

The Barnsider
5202 North Main Street, Dayton, OH 45415 (937) 277.1332 noon – 7pm
Traditional Thanksgiving dinner, $15.95 adults, Children 10 and under $8.95
Reservations welcomed

Wellington Grille

2450 Dayton Xenia Road, Beavercreek (937) 426-4600 | Noon to 6pm
Traditional meal, plus regular items. Reservations Recommended

Young’s Jersey Dairy Golden Jersey Inn
6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd. (U.S. 68), Yellow Springs, (937) 324-2050. 10:30 am to 6 pm seating every 90 minutes. Traditional Thanksgiving buffet including turkey, ham, sides, and desserts. Reservations required. Adults $20.95, children 4-10 $8.95, children 3 and under free.

Also don’t forget the Community Feast of Giving at the Dayton Convention Center:

An event that reaches out to bring the entire community together. It is a dinner, a celebration, a community event based on the following principles:
• To provide a dinner for anyone that might be spending the holiday alone.
• To provide a dinner for those that are homeless or less fortunate.
• To provide a dinner for anyone who wants to attend.

• 11am – 2pm
• No tickets required

Additional Information:
This year there will be Free RTA and Project Mobility Transportation from 9:30am until 3pm. Call 937-425-8300 for RTA information. There will also be free parking in the convention center garage.

If you know of others, feel free to add in the comments below or contact me with more info.

Christopher’s Hosts Autumn Wine Tasting Party

November 2, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby 2 Comments

On Friday, November 8th Christopher’s Restaurant, located at 2318 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering, will host an evening of wine, hors d’oeuvres and house music from 9:30 to 11:30pm. Tim Creekmur from Allied Wine will act as sommelier and local electronic artist Ritchie Pritch with Deep House will keep things lively.

The evening promises a casual, relaxing atmosphere with a wide selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres prepared by Chef Marishah Paddock. Either skip dinner, or eat lite and early, as you’ll want to sample some of these delicacies along with a flight of 6 wines from the autumn wine list. The menu will include vegetarian and gluten free items as well as wine table classics.

This event is drop-in style, so feel free to arrive anytime between 9:30 and 11:00. $17/person or $30/pair includes 6 short pours, food, coffee and tea. Those who’d like to attend but skip the wine tasting can enjoy everything else for $8/person. Beer and wine will be available by the glass/bottle as well. Beer and wine selections will be available by the glass/bottle as well.

Dayton’s Party of Parties is this Saturday Night!

October 16, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

The AIDS Resource Center Ohio (ARC Ohio) has been hosting Masquerage since 2002. Over the years the event has morphed from a fun dance party attended by a couple of hundred guests in masks, to an event so grand Ron Rollins of the Dayton Daily News nicknamed it Dayton’s Party of Parties in 2009. Each year it seems to get bigger with the last two years attendance hovering around the thousand mark. The theme, which was revealed in August at the theme release party, is Once Upon A Time. Guests are required to have a mask, but if the trend of the last few years holds true, the majority of party attenders will be in costume. In my opinion, that’s perhaps the best part of the event, watching all the people and seeing how they interpret the theme. Masquerage 2013 Chair Denise Swick has declared “this year the event will be sexier than ever, but more than that, we’ll be raising funds for an organization that saves lives in our community.”

2012 Welcome Cocktails

After 4 years at the Roundhouse, Masquerage is moving, but just a few hundred yards away to the Coliseum at the Fairground, located at 1043 S. Main Street, just across from Miami Valley Hospital. Event decor wizard Chris Newman, a designer and decorative painter by trade, says the move to the Coliseum has given me a whole new palate to create from. And as I write this, Chris is hard at work, leading a volunteer crew through the creation of what he calls the enchanted forest, which will be the first thing general admission guest see upon arrival. Guests will be greeted with a welcoming cocktail, courtesy of Jagermeister. Nonstop entertainment, dancing, appetizers courtesy of Fusian and Scratch event catering are all included in the $50 general admission tickets. The $50 also represents the cost for ARC Ohio to administer one quick response HIV Test, made available for free for anyone in our community to be tested.

For those looking for the VIP experience, you’ll want to splurge on a Red Ribbon Lounge ticket for $200. These guests will have their own entrance this year, along with valet parking by Lexus of Dayton. You’ll experience all that comes with general admission as well as have the opportunity to have a free mask painted on from 5-8pm at The Carousel House on the Fairgrounds or from 8-10pm at the event. Their will be a cocktail fountain, snacks from Salar, open bar, a fortune teller to tell you about your happily ever after as well as the coveted Swag Bag.

Guests will be entertained by The Rubi Girls, a tradition at Masquerage and the original visionary’s of Masquerage. Also this year Amanda Punchfuk will open the party with a production number, sure to be over the top. Zoot Theater Company and the Dayton’s Annual Tranylvanian Convention, as well as a few surprises as well. A silent auction will include a Jagermeister machine, Fred Myers Jewelry, beer tastings, restaurant gift certificates, tickets to the arts and much more.

Tickets for Masquerage can be purchased online, or pick up your tickets at Lexus of Dayton, Ghostlight Coffee, Square One Salons or Clash Consighnment. If you’d like to support ARC Ohio, but can’t attend, consider purchasing a raffle ticket for the Cinderella Raffle. Winner will have their choice of 4 months of house cleaning from Eco Maids of Dayton or 4 pairs of shoes from Itegritas. A second winner be picked to claim the remaining prize. Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $20 and can be purchased online or at Masquerage.

(And in the spirit of total disclosure- I am the event producer for Masquerage).

Chocolate Tasting To Benefit Dog Fostering Program

October 15, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Give into your sweet tooth cravings and enjoy an event where you can eat all the chocolate you want!

Join us on Sunday, October 20 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Miami Valley School, 5151 Denise Drive in Dayton. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door and children younger than 12 are half price.

Once you have a ticket you can enjoy the all-you-can-eat event filled with candies, cookies, cakes and more from local chocolatiers and home bakers.

In a chocolate coma? Wash is away at our milk bar, enjoy some live music or take a stroll through our silent auction.

All proceeds from this event benefit the Humane Society of Greater Dayton’s Foster Program!

This is a people-only event. Since chocolate is involved, we ask that no guests bring their animals with them.

Big Name Comedy Invades Dayton This Weekend

October 10, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby 7 Comments

As many of you may know about me, I spent over 20 years running comedy clubs. I’ve seen literally thousands of comics over the years and people often ask me why I don’t write more about the comedy scene. I often say it’s because after all those years, not much is funny to me anymore. But looking at the talent playing Dayton this week, I felt the urge to throw something together here to share with you all.

Sean Morey

With Poundstone, Pauly and Brian Regan all in town, my first thought was two out of three ain’t bad. Then just to be fair, I decided to look up who was playing at Wiley’s Comedy club, Well, I’m betting the folks at Wiley’s wish I hadn’t. Sean Morey is the headliner there this weekend. He may be the only comic I ever fired before he took the stage. He was a regular on the Bob & Tom show, and seemed to do well with crowds. On a recommendation from Heywood Banks, I booked him at Jokers. He was just starting to become a draw at clubs, due to his Bob & Tom appearances, and he really seemed impressed with himself. It was his arrogance and attitude that did him in with me. Long story short, the day of the show, he insisted I not put on an act ahead of him, or he wouldn’t go on stage. Which made my decision easy, he never set foot on stage at my club.

Comedian Paula Poundstone was a regular on the comedy club circuit in the 80’s and 90’s, s a political correspondent for “The Tonight Show” during the 1992 presidential campaign. Best known for her quick wit, her love of cats, Poundstone is a regular on NPR’s weekly news panel game show “Wait, Wait … Don’t Tell Me!” She holds the show’s record for not answering a single right question. But whether she’s right or not, she’s always makes me laugh. Poundstone sums up her act best by saying, “I have jokes I’ve told before and will tell again, but my favorite part of the night is talking to the crowd.” She’s a rare stand up talent, with the ability to charm a room, be funny off the cuff and generally works pretty clean. I saw her do an entire show at Jokers, just working off an audience and highly recommend this show. And I also think she was mildly tortured hanging out in my club office, that was stacked floor to ceiling with headshots, tapes, cds and more and put her OCD on high alert.

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Paula performs Friday, October 11th at 7:30pm at the Victoria Theatre. Tickets run $28-$38 and can purchased online.

Brian Regan is another comic that I’m proud to have worked with at Jokers Comedy Cafe back in the day.Brian has been brilliantly funny for years. He’s like that goofy friend you have who’s not the obvious class clown, but just consistently funny. He has the ability to take common occurrences and everyday observations and stretches them out into major chunks of his act. A stand up for over 25 years, Brian is a rare breed. He never used the club as a stepping stone for a sitcom or movie career, stand up has always been his thing. From the minute he hits the stage, Brian has the crowd laughing consistently, and often closes his show with a run of his “greatest hits” often adding favorites called out by the audience. I can remember sitting at the Dayton airport with him, waiting on his delayed flight out of town, laughing hysterically as he entertained me over a bowl of cereal. He’s a great guy and I highly recommend this show!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dlcq_DC1CkM’]

Brian performs Sunday, October 13th at 7:00pm at the Victoria Theatre. Tickets run $39.50 and can be purchased online.

Pauly Shore is in town playing the Funny Bone at The Greene. I booked Pauly three times (maybe four, can’t remember) at Jokers and I’ll tell you the same thing I said then when people asked me if he was funny. If you’re a fan of Pauly’s, you might enjoy the show. In the early MTV “Totally Pauly” years, he’d show up on a tour bus, with an entourage in a cloud of smoke, living up to the drunk and stoned reputation he earned on tv as “The Weasel.” He’d be lead to the stage, where he’d lean back against the brick wall, slur out 40 minutes of something that was supposed to resemble an act. Mildly amusing at best, it was his star power that was intoxicating to those who were enamored to be in the same room with a “TV star.” He always sold lots of merchandise and was pretty good about signing it and taking pictures with the crowd. On one of his bookings he showed a slide show of him growing up at the famed Comedy Store, owned by his legendary mother Mitzi. Sharing pictures of him being taught to ride a bike with Jay Leno, telling stories of Sam Kinison taking him under his wing to learn comedy and watching Pryor light up a crowd (with laughter, not literally). I actually enjoyed that show. Over the years, I did see Pauly grow up some, and leaving behind the MTV character, but I’d still say Pauly’s talents are better used on tv and movies than at stand up. But that’s just my opinion, you may find him funny.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9K43PemQ6w’]
Pauly will appear Friday & Saturday, 7:30 & 10pm with tickets running $22-$25 and available online.

And now you know why I don’t often write about comedy.

Ele’s Karen Thomson GRAND CHAMPION of the 13th Annual Pillsbury Bakers Plus Decorating Competitionin Las Vegas!

October 9, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Karen Thomson, Grand Champion

Imagine a Las Vegas exhibit hall filled with cake decorators competing for 12 hours over a three day period, creating decorated cakes in five categories: Floral Cakes, Wedding Cake, Fondant Cakes, Custom Design Cakes and Sculpted Cakes.Twelve contestants competed head-to-head for the coveted Pillsbury Bakers’ Plus championship title and $14,000 in cash prizes. The highest scoring individual, as determined by a panel of professional judges, was awarded the coveted Pillsbury Bakers’ Plus Grand Champion Trophy, sponsored by General Mills. Representing the Ohio Bakers Association from Ele Cake Company in West Carrollton,Karen Thomson was today crowned the Grand Champion, placing first in Wedding Cakes, Custom Designs, Fondant Cakes and Sculpted Cakes. She placed second in Floral Cakes.

In one exhibit hall, fondant-wrapped cakes depicting themes such as Tinkerbell, Halloween and surfing were on display, while ingredient suppliers

showed products from gelato mix-ins to vivid food coloring agents in another in section. In the other hall, large-scale machines for packaging, assembling, cutting and baking grain products dominated the landscape, whirring with every move they made.

The $102 billion baking industry held its largest North American gathering, the 2013 International Baking Industry Exposition, this week in Las Vegas. IBIE is held every three years., and this year covered more than 500,000 square feet in the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees included wholesale and retail bakers, tortilla producers, food-service professionals and in-store bakeries. Bakers, product wholesalers and retailers directly or indirectly employ about 707,000 Americans.

Congratulations to Karen Thomson, lead decorator at elé Cake Co., who created 11 cakes, and a set of 12 cupcakes for the win. elé kept all their friends and fans updated day by day with pictures on their facebook page, which we’ve shared here:

Day 2

: Day 3

El Meson Celebrates 35th Anniversary with $6.99 Lunch

October 7, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

$6.99 35th Anniversary Lunch Specials
@ El Meson

6.99 CELEBRATION LUNCH
(tax, gratuity, and beverages not included)
Celebrate our 35th Anniversary with lunch!

Entree (Choose One)
Cuban Pork and Ham Sandwich
Roasted Pork, Ham, Swiss cheese, Pickle, & Cumin Mayo grilled on Cuban Press
Colombian Chicken Empanada
Baked turnover stuffed with Colombian Pollo Sudado (Chicken, Yuca, & potato)
Arepa
Sweet corn and grilled cheese corn cakes

Select soup and salad:
Cup of Cuban black bean
Cup of Argentine white bean
Red Quiona Salad OR El Meson House Salad

October 7th-19th
Monday-Friday 11:00am-2:00pm

Cinnamon and Vanilla Add Spice To New Jagermeister Limited Addition Flavor

October 2, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

The seventh-largest spirit brand in the world and the number one imported liqueur in the US introduced the new flavoured variant to the US through Sidney Frank Importing Co, and it’s on the shelves today at Belmont Party Supply for $23.20 for a 750ml bottle, as well as at Little Farm, Handy One and Air City Wine & Liquor. Look for it at Arrow Wine and other stores by Monday.

A blend of Jägermeister’s traditional herbal liqueur recipe with additional vanilla and cinnamon for a “warmer taste”, Jägermeister Spice is a limited edition expression bottled at 25% abv designed to be drunk neat, mixed with cola, or – unlike the original Jägermeister which is suggested to be served as an ice-cold shot – taken as a shot at room temperature.

“From our conversations with Jägermeister consumers, we know new flavours and unique experiences allow them opportunities to bond with their friends,” said Adam Rosen, executive vice president of marketing for Jägermeister at Sidney Frank Importing Company. “Jägermeister Spice offers both new drinkers and our long-time fans an innovative product that can be enjoyed in any setting We’re expecting to sell more than 100,000 nine-liter cases in the first limited edition rollout, which will be from October to December.”.

Jägermeister Spice is the first major product extension in the US for the German liqueur brand in more than 40 years.

“Although Spice is certainly a unique take on our signature recipe, it also stays true to the original blend of Jägermeister, recognised as one of the most iconic spirits brands in the world,” said Michael Volke, member of the executive board at brand owner Mast-Jägermeister SE.

Cheers to Oktoberfest Weekend & Your Chance To Win Preview Party Tickets

September 26, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby 30 Comments

Oktoberfest Chairs Marty Beyers and Lacie Sims

It’s the 42nd Oktoberfest weekend, the artisan’s have set up their tents, over 25 food vendors have stocked their kitchens, two stages have been set up for the dozen bands that have been booked, the crafts are ready for the kids tent, the craft beer tent has been expanded and the tv’s are tuned to football.

Many of us will head over and grab a beer and a brat for a few hours but for a dedicated group of volunteers, this weekends party is a lot of hard work. The DAI Associate board is made up of thirty two couples, who have all made a four year commitment to work and fundraise on behalf of the museum. With 2 major events to work on (Art Ball and Oktoberfest) the average board member puts in over 100 volunteer hours each year and will help raise over $20,000 during their four year term.

As 4th year Associate Board Members and Oktoberfest Chairs, Lacie Sims and her husband Marty Beyer have dedicated themselves to creating a bigger and better festival this year. Check out these new additions to the schedule:

Young Professional Happy Hour: Thursday, Sept 26 5-8pm Network and hang out with colleagues and friends on the grounds of The DAI at our first Oktoberfest Young Professionals Happy Hour event on Sept. 26! Get the FIRST pour of Oktoberfest beers and wines and grab a bite to eat from the hottest food truck in town – Zombie Dogz! Admission is $20 and includes two drinks, as well as a ticket for admission to Oktoberfest on either Saturday, Sept. 28 or Sunday, Sept. 29.

Oktoberfest Business Lunch : Friday, Sept 27 11am – 2pm With free admission and free shuttle service courtesy of RTA, you’re invited to grab a brats or mett for lunch, pick up a mug or souvenir t-shirt. Shuttle service starts at 10:30am and will run along Main Street, Fifth Street and Second Street. Check out the shuttle route here.

They’ve taken their positions very seriously, scouting bands, tasting beers and even hosting this writer for a beer and band preview. Lacie is especially excited with the Preview Party band, The Spazmatics – who perform 80’s, new wave and today’s popular music complete with “nerdography” and “spaztic” movements. You’ll hear live music all weekend long, both on the Main stage and in the food tent, with many of Dayton’s favorite bands, like Skilless Villans, Good English, Spungwurthy and Kick-N-Flava. And as you’d expect at any event called Oktoberfest, their will also be Polka and Accordian Bands in the mix, too!

Marty was most proud of the variety of beer being offered this year, including some Oktoberfest exclusives, like Harpoon Imperial Pumpkin, which will make it’s Dayton debut at the festival. You’ll also want to be sure and try a brew from Brauhaus Riegele, a small German brewery that began brewing in 1386 in Augsburg, which just happens to be Dayton’s sister city in Germany. A special cask tapping of Dry Hopped Nosferatu from Great Lakes Brewing will take place Saturday afternoon about 1pm. For true beer aficionados, you’ll want to check out these special scheduled tastings:

Saturday
1 p.m. – Hoppy Beers, presented by Bonbright Distributors Five different styles of hoppy beers
3 p.m. – Unibroue tasting, presented by Cavalier Distributing
5 p.m. – International Beer Tasting with five International favourites, hosted by Larry Leonhardt of Chappys Tap Room

Sunday
1 p.m. – Ohio Breweries, presented by Cavalier Distributing, featuring Jackie O’s, Hoppin’ Frog, and Fat Head’s
3 p.m. – Crispin Cider Tasting, hosted by Chris Fritz of Bonbright Distributors

There will even be some special seminars for Wine and Whiskey fans as well. All the seminars require you to purchase a tickets and will be limited to 40 attendees and will take place in the Leo Bistro.

Saturday
Seminar 1, 2 p.m. “BYOB” – Build Your own Bourdeaux
Seminar 2, 4 p.m. American Whiskey, presented by Heidelberg Distributing

Sunday
Seminar 1, 2 p.m. Presented by Heidelberg Distributing & Banfi Wianery
Seminar 2, 4 p.m. “Art Andalucian” – Tasting Wines from Spain Hosted by Nola Palomar Veleta Wines

For more information about Oktoberfest, please check the DAI website. And as a special treat, DaytonMostMetro wants to send a lucky reader and their guest to enjoy the Preview Party, this Friday Night. This exclusive sneak peek runs from 7-11pm and includes complimentary beer, wind and soft drinks, and the opportunity to buy the best of the artisans goods. These tickets are $45 for member, $60 for non-members and are quite limited. To be eliblible to win these tickets, like and share this article and fill out the form below. Winner will be randomly drawn at 11pm Thursday night.

Thanks to all who entered! Congratulations to Sarah Carter of Kettering – we’ll see you at the preveiw party!

California Coffee Company Comes to Dayton

September 22, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Inc. founded in 1966 in Berkeley, California will host two Dayton area opening this week, in locations that were formerly Caribou Coffee locations. With a menu full of coffee, espresso, organic teas and brewing equipment, Peet’s has over 200 stores in the United States. Complimenting the beverages, Peet’s features an array of Artisan baked goods that will include blueberry, cranberry and bran muffins, chocolate and orange scones, assorted danishes, cookies and pumpkin, banana and zucchini chocolate chip breads. You’ll also find assorted brownies and flavored pound cakes.

You can meet Peet’s this Monday, 9/23 at 6am for the Grand Opening at 5839 Far Hills Avenue. If you’re one of the first 25 customers of the day, you’ll win a free month of coffee and a limited edition Peet’s tumbler.

The following day, Tuesday, 9/24 at 6:30am the Peet’s at The Greene will open.

10?’s with Chef Mariah Gahagan of Lily’s Bistro

September 21, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Lily’s Bistro, located at 329 E. Fifth Street in Dayton’s Oregon District, has expanded hours to include Saturday lunch and Sunday brunch from 11am-3pm.

General Manager Emily Mendenhall says the restaurant decided to add these hours to offer more weekend choices in the Oregon District. “Our lunch menu is simple and elegant, offering healthier items, and our Sunday menu balances traditional brunch food with creative, higher end cuisine. I think folks who dine in the Oregon District are looking for these options.”

Executive Chef Mariah Gahagan says brunch is a chance for her Sous Chef, Eric Dunn, to be creative. “Eric completely understands that we’re all about seasonal food utilizing fresh ingredients in a manner that is serious while being accessible. We collaborated on brunch, but I gave him room to do his thing, and I’m very proud of what our brunch menu offers.” She adds that the District on Sunday is very different than that of Saturday night. “It has a different feel on Sunday morning. I think our menu encompasses that laid back, neighborhood vibe.”

Highlights include New Orleans style beignets; baked eggs and smoked trout over sautéd spinach with dill cream sauce; and croissant French toast stuffed with sweet cream cheese, topped with fresh fruit and local maple syrup. Prices range from $5-14.

And finally with brunch being taken care of by Sous Chef Eric, Chef Mariah Gahagan couldn’t come up with an excuse to put off an any longer our Chef’s 10 Question interview we’ve been after her for months to do!

Chef Mariah with her favorite lunch option: the Vietnamese rice noodle salad!

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

It’s hard to pick one,because my approach to cooking is all about using seasonal ingredients when they’re at their peak. But coming into fall, I’m really into butternut squash, apples, pumpkins—all the things that typify fall.

What ingredient do you dread?
Green peppers! They impart their flavor onto everything, and to me, they taste like metal.

What’s your favorite dish to make?

Right now, it’s soups, braises, just slow-cooking everything.

What’s your favorite pig out food?

Mac and cheese—preferably enjoyed in bed with my French Bulldog Lulu.

What restaurant, other than your own do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?
Meadowlark, because Wiley is amazing, all the staff is really friendly, and everything is so legit. They use great products when they’re at their best and they don’t make things too fussy—it’s what we strive to do at Lily’s too.

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Don’t rush things. I know everyone is always in a hurry, but allow yourself the time to focus on making the meal right. And use real garlic! That stuff in the jar is abysmal.

If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why?

Alice Waters because she’s an amazing chef whose style I admire.
Lou Reed because he’d be really interesting.
Tina Fey because I’d like somebody funny there.
David Sedaris because he’s neurotic and I appreciate that in a person. And he’s also funny.

Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

Julia Child because so changed and expanded American cooking for the better. And Mary Kay Smith and Kim Korkan from the Winds and Wiley from Meadowlark (and now Wheat Penny!) because I’ve learned so much from working with them.

What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?

I just bought a great house in St. Anne’s, so I mostly just want to garden, work in my yard, and hang out with my husband and dog. And once in awhile I try to go out and eat.

Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story:

That’s hard. Every day there’s something, and it’s always interesting. I think that’s one reason I’m drawn to this profession.

Rue Dumaine Dinner Features Treme Cookbook Author

September 10, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

If you’re a fan of the HBO series TREME or just a fan of New Orleans food, you are in for a treat on Wed, Oct 2nd when Rue Dumaine welcomes Lolis Eric Elie, a writer for David Simon’s Treme, who has compiled a cookbook of traditional and contemporary recipes titled Treme: Stories and Recipes from the Heart of New Orleans. Recipes come from NOLA restaurants and celebrity chefs who appeared on the show, including Anthony Bourdain, Eric Ripert and David Chang. Broudain wrote the introduction to the book. The cookbook is divided into sections, each told in the voice of one of the characters — from Janette Desautel, the chef, to Antoine Batiste, the trombonist. Elie says he wanted them to have their own chapter so they wouldn’t interrupt each other.

“These are the voices I hear when I walk down the street: ‘Boy, you gotta soak your red beans the night before or otherwise they’re going to take forever to cook. Or you need to put pickle meat in those beans — I don’t know what all this vegetarian stuff is about,’ ” Elie says. “People talk about the fact that they’re sitting in the supermarket line in New Orleans, and people say, ‘How you gonna fix that? White beans and shrimp? What you gonna do with that?’ I don’t think that happens as much in other cities.”

Before writing for the show, Elie produced other projects focused on food and the Treme neighborhood. He authored Smokestack Lightning: Adventures in the Heart of Barbecue Country, which he wrote while working as a road manager for Wynton Marsalis. He also edited Cornbread Nation 2: The United States of Barbecue.

Rue Dumaine is currently taking reservations for the $50 dinner created around the recipes featured in the cookbook including:

Ruth Fertel’s garlicky white shrimp remoulade
Poppy Tooker’s crawfish calas with green garlic mayonnaise
Cochon’s braised pig with stewed turnips and cabbage
Bayona’s Cafe au lait pots de crème with mudslide cookies

Author Elie wil be on hand to chat as well as sign copies of his cookbook, which will be available for purchase.

Land of Illusion Provides The Perfect Fright Night

September 7, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby Leave a Comment

Every now and then being part of DMM has its perks. Thursday night was one of them. The Land of Illusion in Middletown hosted a bunch of media folks for a pre-opening night of fright. We were to arrive at 7pm and as I was driving out to the middle of nowhere, I was really hoping google maps was going to get me there, because as I drove through residential neighborhoods, I was really doubting my decision to attend. Finally I saw a Land of Illusion sign and sighed with relief. And then I drove right past the entrance and entered at the exit. Though I’m told that the traffic on nights they are open will be a good sign you’re heading to the right place, and you are probably more likely to find the entrance than I was.

Upon arrival we were warmly greeted, given a goodie bag and got a little history of the park. Darren, our guide is the son on the owner, and he was quick to point out that he’s only a volunteer, his real job includes building roller coasters for amusement parks (he showed us some construction shots of the new Banshee being built at Kings Island). The LOI started 16 years ago in the backyard of Brett Oakley. Originally called The Middlwtown Haunted Trail, Brett just thought it would be cool to do an event in the woods behind his house and hang out with his friends. Which they did for six years before adding the Temple of Terror. Then they moved to their current location, adopted the the Land of Illusion moniker and started adding attractions. Dr. Pyscho’s Haunted Estate was created from the original house on the land, and is truly haunted.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fcc6UYBuB5s’]

Then there’s the Temple of Terror with pitch-dark passageways and a host of rabid bats, spectral skeletons, and monstrous madmen. Scream through a nightmarish labyrinth as hideous horrors claw behind you…next to you…above you…beneath you…all sharing one twisted, bone-sharp wish: that you will remain their ghoulish guest for all eternity.

Killer Klowns came along next, and lets just say these aren’t the kind of clowns that juggle or hand out happy meals! This 3D adventure is full of murderous klowns lurking around every corner with laughing leering faces that will make you rethink your next visit to the circus.

The Voodoo Bayou Shanty was our next stop and while I know I have some creepy relatives, they are nothing like Jim Dubois, great-grandson of Bloody Bill. Dubois tipped his hat, showed us a mouthful of bloody teeth, and pushed open the door to welcome us inside. And what we saw… well you’ll just have to experience it for yourself.

The most know attraction at LOI, The Middletown Haunted Trail, has continued to evolve from it’s 1997 debut. This walk through the woods is filled with eery screams, whining chainsaws, ghouls and ghosts looking for their souls, and zombies wanting to eat you. Twisting and turning through the mile and a quarter of foggy, with blowtorch-wielding madmen in hot pursuit will make you think twice before you take your next walk.

Also new this year, The Vodoo Lounge, which was still getting finishing touches and hadn’t been stocked yet for our visit, looked like a great place to chill between attractions. But by far the addition that will be most appreciated are the brand new bathrooms. A huge upgrade from the wall of port-o-potty’s of years past, the ladies room had 24 stalls and I was assured the men’s room was equally elegantly finished.

On our tour, they saved the best for last, and after 3 hours of walking scares, the thought of a seated attraction was welcomed. As described on LOI’s website:

You just spent the evening running from the worst monsters and demons
of your wildest imagination. Now, it’s time to fight back!

The new Land of Illusion Zombie Sniper Patrol ride gives you the power to actually hunt down and shoot Zombies before they can escape the woods and run wild in the village.
Climb aboard our retrofitted US Army Cargo Truck, settle in behind one of the paintball
gun turrets and take aim and fire at the Zombie invasion as your unit navigates the treacherous woods. Turn back the Zombie Apocalypse! Protect the town from the undead! And pick off these freakish mutants before they pick on you.

The Zombie Sniper Patrol is a separate ride from the cost of your admission ($12.99). While your standard admission ticket gets you unlimited access to four haunted houses and one haunted trail, you’ll need a separate ticket to join this elite hit squad.

I’m not a video gamer, not a huge fan of paintball, but this was a total blast and I can see where it could be addicting! Overall, I have to say I was totally impressed with the entire expereince at Land of Illusion. The “talent” are totally into their characters, the exhibits are elaborate and creative and I have to admit, my heartbeat was on high alert most of the night, and not just from the 3 miles we walked during the tour.

We didnt have time to stop by the Stage of Rage, which will be programmed with entertaiment nightly- bands, escape artists, magincians and more. You can also grab a bite at the Creepy Cafe Concessions.

Admission Rates for LOI:

$34.99 – Friday and Saturday night 8pm -2am
$24.99 – Sunday night (October only) 8pm – 11:30pm – Middletown Haunted Trail closed on Sunday.

Fast Pass (optional)

$15.00 – Allows access to shorter, faster lines on all features including Zombie Sniper Patrol.

Parking is $5 per carload in the gravel lot. Parking proceeds donated to the following non-profit organizations: Somerville Volunteer Fire Department, Madison Athletic Gro LOI may even have some openings for local nonprofit groups to work the parking lot as a fundraiser. If you’ve got a group of 20 or more, you may want to contact them at (513) 423-9960 to schedule your group. Directions to the land of evilness can be found here.

Special thanks to Nate, who held my hand through the scariest parts, Bryan, who screamed louder than anyone and Jodi who squealed and jumped her way through the night with me!

owns and this season they’ve added The Voodoo Bayou Shanty and Club Zombie….along with

Sew Dayton Approaches First Anniversary Announcing New Location

August 26, 2013 By Lisa Grigsby 3 Comments

SEW DAYTON, another success of the Activated Spaces program, has announced it will be moving into a larger storefront in the Oregon District at 26 Wayne Avenue. The new location resulted from a collaborative effort between Randy Handler, the previous lessee and Midtown Development Corp. The parties were brought together through the efforts of Mary Kathryn Burnside, owner of CLASH retail at 519 E. Fifth Street.

SEW DAYTON’s new location is only a few steps from PRESS COFFEE, which has been ranked in the top 10 independent coffee houses in the United States.

The location holds significant promise from a streetscape renovation of Wayne Avenue in 2014 and a strategic mixed-use development plan for the northeast corner of Fifth and Wayne in the near future. The storefront in the 100-year-old Schaefer building at the corner of Fifth Street and Wayne Avenue previously housed notable occupants including Otis Elevator Co., Fleishman Yeast Co., and Dayton Industrial Supply.

SEW DAYTON is a fun fabric shop, specializing in sewing instruction, fun fabrics and custom orders. Owners Tracy McElfresh and Jesy Anderson instruct sewing classes to all ages and skill levels.

Owners Jesy Anderson (left) and Tracy McElfresh (right).

They will be celebrating their first anniversary at their current 15 E. Brown Street location on Sat, Sept 14th from 11am -8pm with giveaways and special discounts on patterns, fabrics and even a chance to pre-register for sewing classes for 10% off. There will even be a visit from the Zombie Dogz food truck.

Sew Dayton carries fabric that cannot be found anywhere else in the Dayton area, focusing on small independent designers and companies. Sew Dayton also provides light alteration services. For more information visit; www.sewdayton.com or call 937-234-SEW8.

Lisa Grigsby

$6.99 35th Anniversary Lunch Specials @ El Meson

$6.99 35th Anniversary Lunch Specials
@ El Meson