Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Lisa Grigsby

Panera’s fall menu highlights

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Panera Bread is celebrating the flavors of fall with a lineup of comforting, crave-worthy dishes, available at cafes nationwide.

At the heart of the menu is the Fall for Your Favorites Meal, featuring the return of three signature soups perfect for the season, including Black Bean Soup, a beloved classic making its comeback by guest demand after seven years. To celebrate the revival of cozy seasonal rituals, Panera has launched a new campaign starring Gilmore Girls stars Jared Padalecki and Matt Czuchry, a duo forever tied to small-town charm, endless coffee refills, and one of television’s most beloved fall rewatches.

Panera’s fall menu includes:

  • NEW Harvest Medley Chicken Salad – Mixed greens and fresh arugula tossed in balsamic vinaigrette, topped with whole grain blend, grilled chicken, mandarin oranges, feta, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, toasted pecans, and crunchy beet strips.
  • NEW Crème Brûlée Latte – Freshly brewed espresso, foamed milk and naturally flavored crème brûlée syrup, topped with whipped cream and salted caramel sugar.

  • Black Bean Soup – Returning to menu after 7 years, this guest favorite is a hearty vegetarian soup featuring black beans, onion, celery, red bell pepper, carrots, lima beans, potatoes, lemon juice, and garlic.
  • Autumn Squash Soup – A Panera seasonal classic featuring butternut squash and pumpkin blended with vegetable broth, honey, apple juice, and warm spices like cinnamon and curry, finished with sweet cream and topped with roasted pumpkin seeds.
  • Hearty Fireside Chili – A rich chili made with beef, kidney beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chili peppers, simmered in a flavorful broth with chili spices and cilantro.
  • Plus, the return of Panera’s seasonal Pumpkin Cookie.

Much like a warm bowl of soup, nostalgic TV marathons are a cherished hallmark of fall. In Panera’s new digital campaign, actors Jared Padalecki and Matt Czuchry reunite to highlight the personalities of Panera’s iconic soup lineup – each variety reflecting the traits of a different kind of “favorite.” Fireside Chili is the dependable classic, Autumn Squash Soup the sophisticated choice, and Black Bean Soup the brooding favorite making a long-awaited comeback after seven years. Together, these flavors anchor the Fall for Your Favorites Meal, proving that nothing pairs better with cozy traditions than the return of a true fan favorite.

“Fall is one of our favorite seasons at Panera, when we get to spotlight warm, comforting classics alongside fresh, seasonal flavors,” said Mark Shambura, Chief Marketing Officer, Panera Bread. “This year, we’re celebrating not just with the return of guest-favorite soups, but also with playful content that personifies them in a way fans will instantly recognize. It’s all about delivering the cozy, craveable flavors our guests love – and yes, that includes the long-awaited return of Black Bean Soup.”

 

Flavor House Moves Again

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The Flavor House Event Center on Patterson, which opened in March of 2024 in the building  that was originally Basil’s on Market, with  4,800-square-foot indoors and a 2,000 square foot patio has closed down. It originally opened in January of 2021 as the 111 Flavor House in the spot that is now Teardrop Steakhouse.

However, Owner Demetrius Wright shared with us that the Flavor House is in the process of moving to 130 W. Second Street, which was the original location for Table 33.  They’ve done some extensive renovations on the space and hope to be open early October.

Here’s a sneak peek of what the inside will look like:

Stay tuned for more information soon!

Village Family Restaurant Announces New Ownership

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After 45 years as a beloved fixture in downtown Waynesville, the Village Family Restaurant is entering an exciting new chapter. The iconic small-town diner, known for its friendly service and warm community atmosphere, has been sold to a team of local entrepreneurs: Angela Wagner, Taylor Ritter, Mike LaJeunesse, and Jon LaJeunesse. The new owners will officially take over operations on October 1, 2025.

Since it first opened its doors, the Village Family Restaurant has served as a gathering place for friends, families, and neighbors, earning a reputation for comfort food and genuine hospitality. The previous owner, Lacie Sims, reflected on her time at Village, sharing, “The very first time I walked into Village I knew it was a special place. From the easy smile on Karen’s face when she brought breakfast to us and our friends, to the kind warmth shared between regulars at different tables, it was immediately clear that this place is special to many special people. Over the last 45 years, Village has grown into the place that it is – that sees many of the same people come in day after day – Village is their family, and they are family to those of us honored to cook for and serve them. Lacie shares, “I’m so excited to share that I’ve found the exact right team to take Village into the future. Angie, Taylor, Mike, and Jon are excited to honor the past and embrace the future of what is truly a Waynesville institution. I can’t wait for you to meet them.”

Angie, Mike, Taylor, and Jon bring a shared passion for both tradition and innovation to the Village Family Restaurant. Their vision is to honor all that makes the diner special — from its loyal regulars to its classic menu — while also looking ahead to current and future dining and entertainment trends. Guests can expect the same welcoming atmosphere and familiar faces, along with fresh ideas and enhancements designed to serve the evolving needs of the Waynesville community.

The new owners expressed their gratitude for being entrusted with this local treasure and their commitment to continuing Village’s legacy as a “home away from home” for generations of diners. “We are thrilled to be part of Village’s story, and we look forward to serving our neighbors with the same warmth and hospitality that has defined this diner for decades,” said the ownership team.

The transition marks a new era for the Village Family Restaurant, one that builds upon its rich history and embraces the bright future ahead. The community is invited to stop by, meet the new owners, and be a part of the next chapter of Waynesville’s favorite diner, starting October 1, 2025.

Village Family Restaurant

144 S Main St,
Waynesville, OH 45068
513 897 8835

Mon – Sat 8am – 8pm
Sun 8am – 7pm

Giovanni’s Hosts Fundraiser Tonight for Franco the Foodie

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Franco the Foodie opened his New Carlisle restaurant in April of 2023. The menu changes weekly, with customer favorites like lasagna, Chicken Parmesan, and Eggplant Parmesan making regular appearances.

The restaurant is currently closed while Franco is in the hospital fighting for his after a battle after he had a routing surgery to get an updated pacemaker in his heart. “That surgery was successful, but then somehow it was infected and he was admitted into the hospital again because he was having breathing issues,” said Jess Gallo, Franco’s daughter. “Congestive heart failure was starting and they basically told him he had six months at the most to survive,” said Karen Gallo, Franco’s wife.   As explained on a go fund me page set up for Franco, “The pacemaker became infected, triggering a cascade of life-threatening complications. Franco has since endured numerous emergency procedures and has been placed on multiple life-support systems, including a temporary LVAD, while we waited, with hope and fear, for a donor heart.

When that call finally came, we thought it was our miracle. The transplant gave us hope for a new beginning. But shortly after, Franco’s body began to reject the new heart. He has since been diagnosed with Primary Graft Dysfunction (PGD), a severe and rare complication. He is now back on ECMO and an LVAD, and during a recent procedure to place an RVAD, doctors discovered a dangerous blood clot that required immediate surgery.”

Over the weekend Cassaundra Spaziani, owner of Giovanni’s Fair

Cassaundra Spaziani

posted this: “Some of you may know that Franco the Foodie out of New Carlisle is in the hospital. I do not know Franco. But I do know what it’s like supporting a family with a small business. I know how scary it can be to get sick and worry about bills. It has happened to many of us. We don’t believe that Franco is our competitor but he is our friend. There’s room for us all to do well and succeed and support each other. So please come out Tuesday for Alfredo night. Make plans to eat with us Tuesday September 23rd from 4-8pm and help a family during what is likely the most stressful and scariest time of their lives. Money should be the last thing we have to think about when someone we love is ill, but unfortunately that is not the case for many of us. We all want Franco to be around for many more years and we all want him to be serving up his wonderful Italian dishes every week. 💚🤍❤️. From one Italian family to another, we truly hope you come see us Tuesday and know that you are contributing to an entire family’s peace of mind.”

Here is the menu for tonight:

We applaud Giovanni’s for setting up this fundraiser tonight for Franco and encourage you to dine out tonight!

Giovanni’s Fairborn

215 W Main St,
Fairborn, OH  45324
(937) 878-1611

 

Ohio Pint Day

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Tuesday, Sept 23rd is the 5th annual Ohio Pint Day. Created as a fundraiser that directly supports the mission of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association: to promote, preserve, diversify and unify Ohio’s craft brewing industry.

More than 170 participating breweries across the state will participate and Craft beer enthusiasts are invited to purchase a limited-edition collectible pint glass available exclusively at the participating brewery taprooms.

This years glass commissioned Natasha Wheeler of NW Creative to design the 2025 Ohio Pint Day glass. Here’s her statement about the design:

Inspired by nature, I love to draw flowers and other natural elements. This flowing landscape features some of Ohio’s iconic blooms: sunflowers, cornflowers, trillium, rudbeckia and Ohio’s official state flower, the red carnation. The blooms are bundled together with hops, blending nature and the spirit of local craft beer. It’s a celebration of Ohio roots, craftsmanship and gathering.

$1 from every glass will be donated to the OCBA, which will currently go to support the lobbying  to ask the stage legislature update to Ohio’s franchise law that will reflect the current reality of the craft brewing industry. We need updated legislation that will promote economic growth and support small businesses in our state.

Ohio brewers have been forced to live and work under antiquated laws that haven’t been updated in more than 50 years. These laws established permanent, unbreakable contracts between breweries and wholesalers. The current law, written in 1974, gives wholesalers (the businesses that deliver Ohio craft beers to market) ultimate power in their relationships with brewers. Franchise law deprives brewers of the freedom to seek solutions when their small business needs are not met by the wholesaler.

You can Help Ohio’s small and independent breweries pass common sense, reasonable reforms to Ohio’s franchise law. Ask your legislators to support the Ohio Craft Brewer Freedom Act today. Use this link to use the brewers association quick contact form to support ask your reperesentative to support Ohio Craft Brewer Freedom Act today.

Ohio On Tap brewery passport app users will also be able to collect a bonus stamp by purchasing the glass. Users will be able to submit manual stamp request selfies with their glass from Sept. 23-28 to receive the stamp.

Participating local breweries:

Alematic Artisan Ales
Bellbrook Brewing Co.
Bock Family Brewing
Branch & Bone Artisan Ales
Crooked Handle Brewing – Springboro
Eudora Brewing Co.
Fifth Street Brewpub
Full Circle Brewgarden
Hairless Hare Brewery
Heavier Than Air Brewing Co.
Loose Ends Brewing
Lucky Star Brewery and Cantina
Southern Ohio Brewing
Star City Brewing
Toxic Brew Co.
Trail Town Brewing
Wandering Griffin Brewery & Pub
Warped Wing Barrel Room & Smokery – Springboro
Yellow Springs Brewery

Socialite Cafe’s Fall Menu Has Arrived

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Kettering’s Socialite Cafe, a European-style cafe known for its gluten-free options, has rolled out their fall menu, bringing back some favorites and introducing some brand new items.

Here’s what’s new:

🍁AUTUMN SEASONAL SALAD🍁
-Spring mix, Chicken, House roasted Sweet potatoes, House spiced pecans, Pickled onions, Dried cranberries, Goat cheese, apple
🎃PUMPKIN PIE OVERNIGHT OATS🎃
– pumpkin, oats, maple, pecans, fresh cut apples
BFG (bacon, fig, & Gouda)🥓
– baguette, Gouda, fig jam, turkey, bacon, arugula
BAKED GOODS!
– Apple chaider muffins, pumpkin/apple oat bars(vegan) pumpkin cinnamon roll with caramel icing, & pumpkin cream cheese muffins
DRINKS
Knight latte, Firebird latte, and of course, a PSL!

Socialite Cafe
4011 Marshall Rd.

Kettering, OH 45429

937-910-7020

Mon – Sat 7am – 9pm
Sun 8:30am – 2:30pm

10?’s with Chef Jacob Rodibaugh

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Chef Jacob Rodibaugh is the Executive Chef at Bistecca, a Tuscan-style steakhouse in Dayton’s Hotel Ardent. He has more than 25 years of experience leading kitchens and teams to culinary excellence. His notable roles as Executive Chef for Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse and Longboat Key Club solidified his reputation as a master in fine dining, and his time spent consulting for Excellence in Restaurants LLC refined his leadership skills. Now, Chef Jacob brings his wealth of knowledge, creative flair, and dedication to fresh, flavorful cuisine to the Midwest. He is excited to showcase his passion for cooking and inspire the culinary scene in the heart of Dayton.

Raised with a deep connection to the land, Chef Jacob has always been passionate about cooking with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. He integrates this love for quality produce into his professional kitchens and personal life, sharing it with his close-knit family. Chef Jacob graduated with honors from the prestigious Indiana University of Pennsylvania Academy of Culinary Arts.

Crustymcg, Chef and his sous chef, a student in Sinclair’s culinary program.

Most recently he was voted the People’s Choice Winner at Miami Valley Meals DICED event.

Chef Jacob took some time out of the kitchen to answer our Chef’s 10?’s:

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

 Thyme-this herb can be bold and go with red meat or be subtle and used in fresh fish or seafood

What ingredient do you dread?

Usually it is any hot chilis, it doesn’t matter how you prepare for these, your hands/fingers always burn.

What’s your favorite dish to make?

 I would have to say anything wild game

What’s your favorite pig out food?

 Wings, something about this simple/comfort food that I just love.

What restaurant, other than your own do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?

Honestly, my family and I do not eat out.  My wife always says, “that’s why I married a chef, so we do not have to go out and eat, he brings the restaurant home!” 

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Chef’s delicious potato rosti topped with a blackberry glazed sausage polpette (meatball) and okra-corn relish. Photo courtesy WeDoVids.com

 Purchase a correct and comfortable pair of shoes.  Your feet and back will thank you later for this.

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

My wife and all 3 of my kids.  Because there is nothing better than bringing joy to your loved ones and enjoying my time with them all.

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

Anthony Bourdain-his intelligence and knowledge, the way he writes is like no other, tells it like it is

Wylie Dufresne- his restaurant WD50 was so inventive and nothing like it

Tomas Keller-he has set so many standards in the industry; he is one of the best there ever way and will be.

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

My family and I enjoy being in nature with all the trails, waterfalls, and hiking in the area. Plus, my kids love Kings Island

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

When Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse opened in Sarasota Florida, before we even opened, I had a disaster. I turned all the equipment on for the first time to get everything on and unfortunately, they didn’t put in the correct linkage for the hood system.  As soon as everything turned on, I was under the hood when I heard it! The linkage snapped and released all the green chemicals on my head and down my clothes.  My corporate chef immediately grabbed me and pulled me into the ally and said “STRIP!”  I was confused and asked why, it was all the chemicals all over my skin.  So, I ended up stripping down to my birthday suite in the alley behind the restaurant, during lunch hours, man was that ever embarrassing!

Bella Sorella Pizza Opens in Clayton This Weekend

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Owners Elizabeth & Gail

Tonight the doors open in Clayton for guests to enjoy an authentic, Italian wood fired pizza meal at Bella Sorrella Pizza Co. In Italian Bella Sorella  means beautiful sisters and Elizabeth and Gail are indeed just that. The idea for the business came from a wood fired pizza oven Elizabeth and her husband built at their farm 20 years ago. They had friends and family over most weekends and made pizza; everyone raved about it and wanted more. Gail had been a chef in the San Francisco area for over a dozen years, but wanted to move back closer to family. So the mobile pizza truck was created 14 years ago.  The business was a success and they added a 2nd truck and became in high demand for weddings and special events.

Elizabeth told us  they’d talked about opening a restaurant for so many years and  looked at many locations, but having to move from their current kitchen made it a necessity.  They “also want to grow Bella Sorella, be a staple in the community, bring jobs and a cozy family place for people to come and have a great pizza or a fantastic salad and side for lunch. It’s so difficult to find a home grown meal in this area (Northmont).”

On Feb 20th they broke ground for the restaurant under the guidance of Ferguson Construction.  I had a chance to enjoy the beautiful building, featuring 2 red pizza ovens a warm dining room and great patio. Gail told us she’s “excited to be able to present more than just pizza on the menu”, while Elizabeth shared that “it’s really nice to cook inside and not fight the elements.  They’ve cut back on food truck events, but after the restaurant settles in they’ll continue to be out in the community with the mobile ovens.

Here’s a look at the opening menu, and they have a full bar offering, beer, wine and cocktails.

 

Tonight and tomorrow  they’ll be open from 5 -10pm, Saturday from noon – 6pm and then beginning on Monday,Sept15th they’ll begin there permanent hours.

Last we heard  they are still in need of the following:
-front of house shift manager, must have experience
     -servers;  who can work lunch shifts,18 and older with some experience, confidence, and can lead a team.

Please contact Rae if you are interested.

Bella Sorella Pizza
1405 Esther Price Way
Clayton, OH, 
(937) 503-3482

Hours staring Sept 15th:|Mon, Wed & Thurs 11am – 9pm
Fri & Sat 11am – 10pm
Sun 11am – 7pm

Deals For National Cheeseburger Day Sept 18th

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Get ready to sink your teeth into one of America’s most iconic creations—because September 18th is National Cheeseburger Day! From backyard grills to gourmet gastropubs, this juicy classic has earned its place as the king of comfort food. Whether you like it piled high with toppings, smothered in melty cheese, or kept simple and traditional, today is the perfect excuse to indulge.

The cheeseburger’s exact origins are debated, but most food historians credit Lionel Sternberger, a 16-year-old fry cook in Pasadena, California, who supposedly topped a sizzling hamburger with a slice of cheese back in the 1920s. That simple addition transformed a good sandwich into a legendary one. Since then, cheeseburgers have grown into a cultural staple, with countless variations around the world.

Restaurants across the country often celebrate with special deals, making it the ultimate time to try something new—or stick with your tried-and-true favorite. So gather your friends, bring your appetite, and honor the timeless marriage of beef and cheese. After all, nothing brings people together quite like a perfectly cooked cheeseburger. Here are the deals we’ve found:

Applebee’s  – This National Cheeseburger Day, enjoy any of 3 Classic Burgers: Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Classic Cheeseburger, or Classic Burger – served with fries for just $8.99!

Buffalo Wild Wings  -All Blazin’ Rewards members can snag buy one, get one free burgers all day long.

Burger King – order through the BK app, you can score a free cheeseburger with a purchase of $1 or more.

Dairy Queen is offering fans a free Double Original Cheeseburger Stackburger with any app or online order of $1 or more between September 15 and 19, exclusive to DQ rewards members.

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers – Guests with the reward app can snag a free Freddy’s Original Double Steakburger with a $10 minimum purchase between September 18 and 21

McDonald’s is offering a 50-cent Double Cheeseburger on Sept. 18 to celebrate National Cheeseburger Day –  offer will be available exclusively through the McDonald’s app

Rally’s – From September 16 to 18, customers can enjoy the signature Big Buford for just $3 at participating locations nationwide, while supplies last.

Red Robin – Get the Big Yummm Burger Deal for $9.99, with a Red’s Double Tavern Burger, bottomless side and bottomless beverage at participating locations.

 Smashburger – any single  for just $4.99 on September 18 at participating locations.

Sonic Customers can enjoy buy-one-get-one-free Double Smasher burgers when purchasing through the Sonic app.

Wendy’s – Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for $0.01 (App only, Sept. 18–22)

White Castle- Get one free slider with the promo code SAYCHEESE at checkout online or in-app from Sept. 18 to 21.

Miami Valley Meals Diced Fundraiser Crowns New Champion

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Last night at the Schuster Center thirteen chefs took on the challenge faced by Miami Valley Meals team on a daily basis, how to create a tasty dish from donated food for over 4000 meals/week.

Each chef got  a mystery box of four ingredients a few days before the friendly competition so they’d have time to compose a winning dish.  They were asked to prep 300 portions to be tasted by a sold out crowd of over 300 guests for the 4th annual DICED fundraiser. All 4 ingredients most be featured in the dish and they were also given a gift card to the Gem City Market to pick up additional items for their dish.

There were 4 different boxes randomly given to this years competing culinarians:

Box A: breakfast sausage, yukon gold potatoes, okra, blackberry glaze

Blueberry Cafe created a Midwest Tartiflette

Box B: brisket, lentils, turnips, sweet pickles

Box C: tofu, bell peppers, ketchup, farro

Chef Jay Jones dish from the plant based box

Box D; whole turkeys, kohlrabi, corn on the cob, cabbage

Guests at the event visited each Chef’s table and sampled their dish, eventually casting their vote for the people’s choice winner.

A panel of 5 judges also rated each dish based on use of ingredients, creativity, taste and presentation. Judges from left to right:  Liz Valenti,  Chef/owner Wheat Penny, Rick Schaefer, Chef and former owner of Brock Masterson’s Catering, Keith Taylor, Executive Chef Table 33, Chef Laura Cotton of Miami Valley Meals and Dustin McGillivray, aka crustymcg- digital content creator. 

The judges selected Chef James Blythe from Otterbein’s fresh corn tamale, filled with shredded turkey, and wrapped in a fresh corn husk, topped with candied red and green cabbage and cilantro as their top dish,  while the people’s choice was Chef Jacob Rodibaugh from Bistecca’s sausage meatball with with blueberry dijon glaze over a potato a potato rösti, served with a charred fresh corn and okra salsa.

Both were presented with a new mystery box of ahi tuna, watermelon radish, pickled ginger and  couscous and given 20 minutes to create their final dish.

Here were the final dishes, Chef James on the left -wild mushrooms, watermelon and couscous topped with crushed cashews. Chef Jacob on the right served a veggy couscous with an Ahi tuna salad,  pickled  watermelon chips with  toasted sesame seeds.

And the Diced Champion for 2025 is Chef James Blythe from Otterbein
Senior Life.

Upon being named the winner Chef James shared he “had a great time creating his dishes and was  happy to be part of such a great cause.” He was also quick to thank his sous chef Pam Hayes and invites the public to  visit the 3 restaurants at Otterbein, the 1912 Dining Room, Great Wave Cafe and outdoor dining at Terrace Place.

Diced finalists and judges

Miami Valley Meals Executive Director and co-founder Amanda DeLotelle was overjoyed with the success of the event,  ““Celebrating service during Hunger Action Month with such amazing local culinary talent and community support is what Miami Valley Meals is all about. The awareness and funds raised tonight uplift meals made with love, creating a ripple effect that nourishes and supports our neighbors who need it most. Thank you to the many sponsors, volunteers, guests, donors, partners and my board and team for making the event a success and our work possible”

Last night’s event worked with the Food Bank  and are “excited to share that thanks to all of the great volunteers and folks who helped plan and use the composting stations, we were able to divert 365 pounds of compostable items from going to the landfill, says Courtney Curtner, the Garden Lead at the Food Bank.

While they are still calculating the numbers the early estimate is a gross of $70,000, which will allow MVMeals to continue to feed nourishing meals made with love that honor and  dignity to the people in our community that need of assistance.  That’s currently about 4000/meals a week, distributed by 50 nonprofit partners.

Red Lobster’s New Shrimp Deal Delivers Big Value

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Red Lobster, great value never comes at the expense of an exceptional dining experience. Ultimate SpendLESS Shrimp is the kind of value that only Red Lobster can deliver with quality seafood you trust and flavors that you love.

“Since stepping into this role, I’ve gotten questions about Endless Shrimp – ‘Is it coming back? ‘What really happened with the promotion?’ ‘How much shrimp is too much shrimp?’ And it’s time we officially turn the tides,” said Damola Adamolekun, Chief Executive Officer of Red Lobster. “We’re starting a new chapter here at Red Lobster, one that’s smarter, more sustainable and still packed with the unbeatable value and delicious flavors our guests have come to expect. Ultimate SpendLESS Shrimp is a celebration and I’m looking forward to our diners enjoying great shrimp dishes this season for a great price. It may not be endless, but you’ll definitely spend less.”

That’s not all guests can expect this fall. As the world’s largest and most-loved seafood restaurant company, Red Lobster is serving up even more reasons to celebrate by officially adding its fan-favorite line up of Seafood Boils to the permanent menu for consistently bold flavors and an unforgettable experiential dining experience.

Additionally, Red Lobster is introducing a limited-time lineup of fall-inspired cocktails perfect for pairing with your favorite dish or enjoying for happy hour this season:

  • Caramel Dream – Absolut Vodka, butterscotch, caramel and cream, garnished with a sea salt chocolate caramel
  • Apple Harvest Punch – Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, cranberry, lemon and apple juice, topped with an apple slice and cinnamon stick
  • Gold Rush – Maker’s Mark Bourbon, honey, and sparkling gold shimmer, garnished with fresh mint

To view the complete menu or find a restaurant location, visit Red Lobster’s website.

Area Red Lobster Locations:

8200 N Springboro Pike
Miamisburg, OH 45342

6500 Miller LN
Dayton, OH 45414

2803 N. Fairfield Road
Beavercreek, OH 45431

7 Oktoberfest Celebrations

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Oktoberfest, the world-famous German festival best known for its overflowing steins, lively music, and hearty Bavarian fare, is something of a seasonal trickster. Despite its name, the festivities kick off in September! Why? Tradition and weather. The original Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration in Munich for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Over the years, it evolved into an annual folk festival featuring parades, horse races, and, of course, beer. To take advantage of longer days and milder weather, organizers gradually shifted the start date into late September, ensuring revelers could enjoy outdoor tents and beer gardens without shivering through chilly October nights. So while it ends in early October, most of the merrymaking actually happens in September—a perfect excuse to raise a glass before autumn truly sets in. Prost to a festival that’s as much about community and culture as it is about clinking mugs!

Local Oktoberfest Celebrations:

Sister Cities of Vandalia Oktoberfest

Vandalia Sports Complex
1101 Stonequarry Road, Vandalia

SISTER CITIES OF VANDALIA is a nonprofit international organization dedicated to fostering global friendship, understanding, & communication. Sister Cities of Vandalia is wholly funded by the Vandalia Oktoberfest falls on the first weekend after Labor Day.

Entertainment

FRIDAY:

Naked Karate Girls

SATURDAY:

2pm-5pm: Brothers In Law (the band)

5:30pm Liederkranz Dancers

6:30 pm: Stein Hold Competition – USSA State Qualifier

7:30-11:30 pm: Music Bingo w/Todd Moore

Looking for a fun, unforgettable local event this fall? Don’t miss Oktoberfest Springboro—a must-attend celebration at Springboro United Church of Christ, happening Friday and Saturday, September 5–6!
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙥:
🍻 Classic beer hall favorites
🌭 German-style food & live music
🎠 Family-friendly attractions and community fun
🎪 Festival atmosphere right in the heart of Springboro
This event captures community spirit, great food, and shared experiences. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, Oktoberfest Springboro feels warm, authentic, and full of heart.

Oktoberfest

Branch & Bone Artisan Ales
905 Wayne Ave, Dayton

Join us Saturday, September 13th starting at Noon for a full day packed with great beer, delicious food, and nonstop fun.

We’ll be pouring a stellar Oktoberfest lineup including Märzen, Gorlami Italian Pilsner, Shared the Years Rye Dunkel, and Microcastle.

Claybourne GRILLE will be here serving up a special Oktoberfest menu to keep you fueled all day.
Expect exclusive Branch & Bone Oktoberfest steins and enamel pins, a beer puppeteer, photobooth fun, and the always epic stein hoisting competition.

Lederhosen Lunch @ DAI Oktoberfest

The Dayton Art Institute
456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton

The Oktoberfest celebration begins on Friday, September 26 with the Lederhosen Lunch. Brats, metts, tenderloins, beer and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is free. Greater Dayton RTA will also provide free shuttles from downtown Dayton to Friday’s Lederhosen Lunch.

Friday, Sept 26, 7–11 pm

Oktoberfest Preview Party 2025

Dayton Art Institute
456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton

Reserve your spot for the best party in town, the DAI’s Oktoberfest Preview Party, presented by PNC! Celebrate 53 years of art, cheers and beers with complimentary draft beer, wine & soft drinks, and live entertainment.

Presale Discount (through 4 pm on September 26): $55 members; $75 non-members
All tickets purchased after 4 p.m. on September 26 or at the gate: $95

All Preview Party tickets purchased online will be delivered via email as a digital ticket. After completing your purchase, you will receive a receipt for your order with a digital ticket containing your admission barcode and additional information about the Preview Party.

DAI Oktoberfest

The Dayton Art Institute
456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton 
The DAI Oktoberfest features all the things the community has come to love about the festival and some new additions for 2025!
Advance Tickets: $12 adults; $8 seniors (60+) & youth (7-18); $20 Weekend Pass
At the Gate: $15 adults; $10 seniors & youth; $25 Weekend Pass
Children 6 and under admitted free. Keep the party going by purchasing a Weekend Pass! The Weekend Pass allows you access to the festival all day Saturday and all day Sunday! *Preview Party not included in the price of a Weekend Pass.Greater Dayton RTA will also provide free shuttles from downtown Dayton to Oktoberfest on Saturday and Sunday, as well as to Friday’s Lederhosen Lunch.*Oktoberfest is held rain or shine. No refunds. No rain checks.*

 

Oct 4 @ 10am –
Oct 5 8am – 8pm

Minster Oktoberfest

Minster Oktoberfest
E. 4th St, Minster

The MINSTER OKTOBERFEST was started in 1975 by the JC’s (The Minster Journeyman’s Club) and the Kiwanis (Minster Service Club). It is estimated that over 80,000 people come to Minster during the weekend of Oktoberfest.

This fun filled festival provides delights for all. Come sing and dance to GERMAN MUSIC . Taste the hearty GERMAN FOODS . Watch the wonderful OKTOBERFEST PARADE featuring numerous colorful floats, area marching bands and celebrities. See the many events taking place in the Gazebo and the Spass Platz. Take part in the BEER TRAY RELAY , the OKTOBERFEST 10K RUN , and numerous other games. Visit the large ARTS & CRAFTS area.

OKTOBERFISH

Little Fish Brewing Co.
116 Webster Street, Dayton
Join us October 4 for this year’s OKTOBERFISH FESTIVITIES!
With German-inspired food, drinks, games, music, and COSTUMES, this year will be the most fun yet!

Once again, we will have live traditional German folk tunes by Die Musikmeisters of Appalachia from 3:00PM-6:30PM, interlaced with a German-inspired playlist ALL DAY while the band is not playing!

-The Stump Game! The trademarked hammer & nail drinking game. Check out this video for an example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfWKTTlv-j8
-Stein Hoist Competition at 6:00PM! Test your arm strength against your fellow beer enthusiasts! Check out this video for an example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H1gFD4N_9c

We will have, at a minimum, these lagers & German-style ales:
-Abseil Pilsner
-Dimple Stein Czech Dark Lager
-Karmanfest Malty Amber Festbier
-Ohio Weizen 100% Ohio-Grown Hefeweizen
-PawPaw Weizen German-Style Hefeweizen w/ PawPaw Fruit
FOODS
Both traditional and inspired German fare! Menu by Executive Chef Zach Morgan coming soon- expect to see small snacks, big meals, and HUGE shareables!
GARB
Our staff will be decked out in traditional Oktoberfest costumes, and you should too! While not required, it’s undeniable that costumes always make these events more!

Oct 10 @ 6:00  – 9:00 pm
Oct 11 @ 11:00 am – 9:00 pm 

Lebanon Oktoberfest

mulberry street plaza
Lebanon
free to attend

Oans, zwoa, g’suffa! The 12th Annual Lebanon Oktoberfest presented by Molson Coors will be held in Downtown Lebanon on October 10-11, 2025. This event features live German-style music, food vendors, a kid’s zone, and German and local craft beers.

Schedule of Events

  • Friday, 6-9pm:  Gerhard Albinus & The Uberland Band
  • Saturday, 11a-2pm: The Polka Pirates
  • Saturday, 2:30-5:30pm: Route 161 Happy Wanderers
  • Saturday, 6-9pm: Chardon Polka Band

Pumpkin Spice is Back at McDonalds

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Fall menu items have arrived at McDonald’s with the return of beloved pumpkin-flavored treats that capture the essence of fall.

Beginning August 29, the McCafé® Pumpkin Spice Latte makes its seasonal comeback. This crafted beverage combines freshly brewed espresso with steamed milk, enhanced by warm pumpkin and cinnamon notes that deliver the quintessential taste of autumn. Customers seeking a refreshing alternative can opt for the iced version – perfect for warmer late-summer days.

Complementing the signature latte is the returning Pumpkin & Crème Pie, a delightful handheld dessert that showcases McDonald’s bakery expertise. This unique turnover features a flaky, golden crust with a distinctive dual filling: creamy pumpkin pie on one half and smooth crème on the other, finished with a delicate sugar glaze.

These seasonal offerings create an ideal combination for fall enthusiasts looking to embrace the changing season. Available at participating McDonald’s locations nationwide, both items will be served for a limited time while supplies last.

Yellow Springs Smokehouse To Close

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You’ve got until Sept 7th to enjoy the craft BBQ being served up at the Yellow Springs Smokehouse at 1535 Xenia Avenue.  Opened in Nov of 2024 the eatery serves up brisket, pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, boiled peanuts and more. Owner Brian Rainey says,”I’ve spread myself way too thin for way too long. Im tired of the stress defining my persona. I just want to love and nurture Sunrise. I just want to like my job again.”
Prior to it’s run as the smokehouse, the location was home to Calypso Grill from March of 2018 to 2024. After a six year run,  he put the business for sale, and when it didn’t sell he decided to transform it into the smokehouse with Chef Gavin St. Denis.
Rainey still owns and runs Sunrise Cafe in Yellow Springs, which he took over in 2004 and is open seven days a week from 7:30am – 9pm.  He is looking forward to concentrating on just the one eatery, while having more time to spend with his wife and four children.

 

New Lunch Option Downtown

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There’s a new lunch spot downtown. Bistecca, located inside Hotel Ardent  is now open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 am – 1:30 pm.

The lunch menu features items like Smoked Salmon Bruschetta, Tuscan Chicken Salad Croissant, a Tuscan Burger, and flavorful salads and soup. You can take a peek at the menu here.

Bistecca

137 N. Main Street,
Dayton, OH 45402
937.637.0465
Breakfast
Weekday
(Mon-Fri): 6:30am – 10:30am
Brunch
Saturday & Sunday: 7:00am – 1:30pm
Lunch
Monday – Friday: 11:00am – 1:30pm
Negroni Hour
(Mon-Sat): 4:30pm – 6:30pm (bar only)
Dinner
Weekday (Sun-Thurs): 4:30pm – 10:00pm
Weekend (Fri & Sat): 4:30pm – 11:00pm

Reservations can be made online.

Noodles & Company Combo Duo Meals starting at $9.95

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Noodles & Company has launched a duo meal that offers guests a small entrée and a side starting at $9.95. Whether it’s an early lunch, afternoon refuel or evening meal, you can Duo on your own schedule. Choose any small Noodle or Mac bowl with Duo-sized protein + Side for a bundled price.

Small Entree Choices include:

Creamy Cheddar Mac
Rigatoni Roni With Parmesan Chicken
Buttery Parmesan Noodles
Pad Thia
Crispy Bacon Chicken Alfredo
Buffalo Chicken Ranch Mac
Pulled Pork BBQ Mac
Japanese Pan Noodles
Basil Pesto Cavatappi
Spicy Korean Steak Noodles
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scamp
Pasta Fresca
Roasted Garlic Cream Tortelloni
Chipotle Chicken Cavatappi
Bulgogi Steak Mac & Cheese

Side Choices Include:

Caesar Salad
Garden Salad
Chicken Noodle Soup
Lemon Parmesan Broccoli
3 Piece Potsticker
Baguetts
3 piece Cheesy Garlic Bread

Noodles & Company

Austin Landing

3400 Rigby Road
Miamisburg, OH 45342

The Greene

11 Greene Blvd
Beavercreek, OH 45432

 

10:30 AM to 10:00 PM