Dayton937

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

Lisa Grigsby

Adult Happy Meals Now at McDonald’s

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Nostalgic McDonald’s characters are making a comeback with the launch of a new limited-edition adult Happy Meal. For the first time in more than 20 years, Ronald McDonald, Grimace, Birdie, Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese and the Fry Friends are officially taking the trip out of the group chat. Fans are invited to visit the Golden Arches to grab the all new McDonaldland Meal, starting Aug. 12.

McDonald's is bringing back its nostalgic McDonaldland brand for the first time in more than 20 years, launching a new meal inspired by the fictional universe.

The meal features a new, limited-edition Mt. McDonaldland Shake – an ode to one of its major landmarks – that offers a secret concoction as enchanting as the world itself. It’s up to you to discover the surprise flavor. It also comes with your choice of a Quarter Pounder® with Cheese or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets®, fries and a mystery-flavored Mt. McDonaldland Shake, a nod to the fictional universe’s volcano and its blue lava and pink clouds, the announcement noted.

“There’s an entire magical world of McDonaldland filled with characters, places and lore,” Jennifer “JJ” Healan, vice president of brand, content, and culture at McDonald’s USA said in a statement. “We are taking fans on a trip to McDonaldland with an immersive experience that taps into the past to create the future.”

McDonald's is bringing back its nostalgic McDonaldland brand for the first time in more than 20 years, launching a new meal inspired by the fictional universe.
“Over the past few years we’ve seen how fans flock to our characters, everyone from Grimace to the Hamburglar. But many, especially the new generation, don’t know that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s an entire magical world of McDonaldland filled with characters, places and lore,” said Jennifer “JJ” Healan, McDonald’s VP, U.S. Marketing, Brand, Content & Culture. “And so, for the first time in decades we are taking fans on a trip to McDonaldland with an immersive experience that taps into the past to create the future. It’s a chance for us to give fans a new, modern way to experience this magical world.”

So, pack your bags for a fun-filled itinerary that lets you explore all that McDonaldland has to offer!

 

Ronald McDonald, Grimace, Birdie, Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese and the Fry Friends are reuniting for the meal.

“McDonaldsland” characters (KSAT 2025)

The meal will include a new, limited-edition Mt. McDonaldland shake, a choice of a Quarter Pounder with Cheese or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, fries and a collectible souvenir.

Each order will include one of six collectible tins featuring postcards, stickers and more, inspired by the various characters.

As for the limited-edition shake, the release states it was “inspired by the vibrant blue ‘lava’ and pink clouds of Mt. McDonaldland.”

7 Local Cooking Classes

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Taking a cooking class is more than just learning recipes — it’s an experience that builds confidence, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned home cook, classes offer hands-on guidance from skilled instructors who share tips and techniques you can’t always pick up from a cookbook or video. You’ll expand your palate by trying new ingredients, sharpen your knife skills, and discover time-saving tricks that make cooking more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a fun, social way to meet people, share laughs, and leave with a delicious sense of accomplishment (and maybe even some leftovers). In short, a cooking class feeds both your stomach and your soul.

The Limitless World of Flatbread

Dorothy Lane Market Culinary Center 

ravel the world through flavor in this class with Chef Adam Berning and learn to make homemade flatbreads. From the soft, pillowy naan of India to the pocket-perfect pita of the Middle East and the delicate, versatile lavash of Armenia, you’ll explore the rich cultural history and diverse techniques behind these global staples.  $110

Traditional Pierogi Making Adventure

Cheese Studio
3401 Southdale Drive #4,Kettering
Create your own Pierogi’s with custom cheese, potatoes and onions under the guidance of guest Chef Dominika. $35

Fresh Mozzarella Class

Grist 46 W. 5th St, Dayton

In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to make fresh mozzarella from curd, using the proper techniques for stretching, shaping,…

$128

Buttermaking Food Adventure

Rosebuds Real Food 473 E. Troy Pike C., Covington

Learn how to make sweet cream, European-style cultured, and infused butters from scratch—using fresh cream and Rosebud’s natural seasonings.  $40

Hands-On: Steakhouse/Cooking with a Partner

Cooking School at Jungle Jim’s 5440 Dixie Highway, Fairfield

Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Porcini Mushroom Butter Mashed Potatoes with Boursin Cheese Raspberry Fudge Brownies with Chambord Sauce Your confirmation… $195

Grist Class: MEATBALLS & POMODORO!

46 W 5th St, Dayton

You’ve asked for the secret to our meatballs—good news, we don’t keep secrets! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to make tender, flavorful meatballs from scratch, just like we do.

Working in teams of four, you’ll prepare a fresh seasonal salad and meatballs simmered in pomodoro sauce. While you cook, the chef will handle the pasta and serve it alongside your meatballs for a complete, comforting meal. To finish, enjoy a classic cannoli for dessert—our treat.

This is a fun, approachable class that’ll leave you with a go-to recipe perfect for any night of the week $128

Filled Pasta Class

Grist 46 W. 5th St, Dayton

Join Chef Casey in a hands-on culinary adventure and learn what makes our pasta so delicious! You’ll try your hand at 5-7 different pasta shapes and take home what you make (which is usually enough for a dinner for 4). This pasta freezes well, so you’ll have a delicious meal to share with others!

The Grist team will prepare a meal for you following your hands-on portion of the class. You will enjoy a family-style meal comprised of a salad, two pasta dishes, and dessert.

We have wine available for you to enjoy during the class at $8 per glass (pay upon completion of the class). Please let us know if you have any allergies prior to your arrival.  $128
*This is an adult-only class, reserved for guests 16 years and older*

Check our Dayton937.com calendar for future cooking classes here.

Dōzo is Back with a New Format & New Menu

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New Chef. New Menu. New Format. New Hours.

Dayton’s most unique sushi experience returns to Downtown, ready for more and ready to shine.
Chef Jake Montayne relocated from Minnesota this Summer and has been hard at work ith GM Kay Salyers and team putting together a menu that maintains the creativity, the commitment to premium ingredients with our global vendors, and the refinement that Dōzo is known for. What started as a small menu expanded to the rest of the bar guests has grown into something we feel really good about for nightly service. If you just want to nibble on a few things while enjoying drinks, or are looking for a full meal, we’ll have plenty to satisfy your personal preferences for an unforgettable night out.”

The new menu incorporates an array of creative twists on classic sushi rolls, with sections featuring Dōzo’s signature nigiri compositions, small plates to share, and a seasonal dessert. A Sake program curated by Wine Director Lauren Gay is designed to be explored, featuring bottle selections rarely found throughout the state of Ohio. Beverage Director Tyler Hampton also makes his mark, launching a new Japanese Whiskey list and a few new Dōzo-specific cocktails.

Dōzo relaunches with preview nights Tuesday – Saturday from 5pm -9pm. Dimmick is hopeful the new approach encourages a broader group of diners to enjoy the selections and the space, at a price point that makes a night out a lot more approachable than the original iteration.

“We’re just having a ton of fun with this thing, and taking the pretense out everywhere we can. The space remains impeccable, the service and hospitality we’re known for is palpable, of course… But times are tough and as operators, we have to adapt to what works for best the community and this refresh represents our commitment to growth and to Dayton. We want to share our talent, our passion and our service with as many friends as possible, as often as possible, and this new approach allows us to do just that.”

Reservations will fill up fast for the coming weeks as the team starts with limited seatings and works to expand them to full capacity throughout August. Make your reservations here.

10? with Meadlowark Owner & Chef Dave Rawson

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Chef Dave Rawson

Chef Dave Rawson started his career at Meijer, where he was a backer.  He attended Sinclair’s culinary program and then started working at The Winds in Yellow Springs, where he met his wife Robin, who also worked in the kitchen.  It was also there he met Elizabeth Wiley, who eventually left to open The Meadowark in 2004.  In 2006 Rawson was hired on as her kitchen manager and he’s been there since then.  Wiley describes Dave as, “solid, feet-on-the-ground, creative and hard-working, a good communicator and fantastic cook. To watch him make risotto, or ratatouille is poetic.” Wiley sold Wheat Penny and Meadowlark in 2022 to her long time  business partners and friends, Chefs Dave Rawson and Liz Valenti

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with?

Peppers! I love them. Sweet, hot, fresh, dried, smoked, grilled on a bratwurst, ground into romesco, simmered in ratatouille. I feel they don’t get enough credit.

What ingredient do you dread?

This is a hard one. Ingredients or methods that take extra care or are difficult or monotonous to prepare are more of a challenge than a dislike for me. I’ll go with an ingredient that I don’t like to eat, which there are few, liver.

 

What’s your favorite dish to make?

Ratatouille. My Chef at the Winds, Kim Korkan, showed me how to make it years ago. It’s such a beautiful combination of summer vegetables, all of which can grow in Ohio. (and in talking with him this will probably appear on the menu next week).

What’s your favorite pig out food?

Chef Dave cooking down tart cherries

There are too many! I would have to say ice cream if made to choose.

 

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

Another tricky one. Chefs tend to keep similar hours, so most are closed at the same time as Meadowlark. The list is long though. Dayton has quite a few stellar restaurants.

 

What’s your best advice for home chefs?

Just like anything else, practice. Take advantage of today’s technology and watch cooking shows, get some cookbooks, take some cooking classes, become familiar with your tools. Keep at it and continue to build off what you know. Call the Meadowlark and ask me questions!

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

I’m taking the liberty of adding “living or dead” to this question.

  1. My grandmother. She was a good cook, and she taught my mother to cook. She never got to see me do this, and I think she would be “tickled pink” as she would say.
  2. My mother. She was a good cook and taught me the excitement of trying new things.
  3. My wife. What point would there be of having a dinner party without Robin there? Besides, she’s a better cook than me.
  4. My mother in-law. She and my mother didn’t get to spend enough time together and she’s an awesome lady!

 

Wiley & Dave

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

I’ll go with people I know as opposed to famous (or not so famous) chefs. Elizabeth Wiley, Kim Korkan and Mary Kay Smith. They helped form my approach to cooking and the business side of cooking. The main lesson is you must really care about your ingredients, your customers and your staff.

 

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

As little as possible! But in all seriousness, hanging out with my wife, our dogs, and our friends, which doesn’t happen enough!

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

As you know, the restaurant business can be very volatile. Although I had been a baker for many years, I was relatively new to professional cooking when I found myself, only nine months into my first restaurant job, being promoted to kitchen manager. I think my bosses at the time thought that since I seemed to be fairly responsible and eager to learn, that they would teach me as we went along. I think it turned out all right.

Meadowlark

Where comfort food meets creativity and local charm.
5531 Far Hills Avenue
Dayton Ohio 45429

937-434-4750

 

Tues – Thurs: 11:30am – 8:30pm

Fri & Sat: 11:30am– 9:30pm

Lucho All-Day Taqueria & Espresso Bar Now Open

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Get ready to kick off your day—or wind it down—with tacos, burritos, bowls, espresso, and mezcal! Lucho, a new fast-casual mezcal and espresso bar is now open in the Dayton Arcade.

Drip Coffee and Espresso available for $3. Flavored coffees and lattes $5 – $7

Breakfast taco’s run $5.

For lunch or dinner Burrito bowls and salads are $9. Add chips and salsa for $, chips and queso or guacamole for $8,

Desserts range from $4 -6.

Lucho

in the Dayton Arcade
37 W. Fourth Street
Dayton, OH 45402
Open  7am – 9pm Mon – Fri
(for now)
Pictured right:
Chicken Breakfast Taco and Spiced Chai
(photo by Sarah Caplan)

9 Places to Enjoy Oysters in the Miami Valley

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Oysters are highly nutritious shellfish that offer a wide array of health benefits. They’re packed with high quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants — all of which benefit health.

East Coast oysters are known for their briny, salty, and complex flavor, with hints of seaweed, minerals, and sometimes butter. West Coast oysters are known for their sweet and fruity flavor, with notes of melon, cucumber, and citrus.

East Coast oysters are long and smooth, with a narrow base and tear drop shape. West Coast oysters are round with rough, fluted edges.

The size of the oyster doesn’t much matter, it’s a personal preference whether you look them big or small, but it should look full within the shell. A quality oyster won’t be too thin or too salty.

While some people believe you should let it slide down your throat without biting it, chewing it one or two times will allow you to get all the flavor.

While it’s not necessary to use condiments, and some people actually prefer their fish plain, there are a variety of garnishes that can add an extra pop of flavor! Lemon, cocktail sauce, or a shallot mignonette are all common choices. These all add a little zing, without completely overpowering the taste of the oyster.

Where to order oysters in the Miami Valley:

Club Oceano Seafood & Bar
4429 Cedar Park Dr, Beavercreek
 (937) 988-0909

Oysters Rockefeller  - Baked Oysters Topped with Cheese, Chopped Spinach, Green Herbs, and Citrus Bearnaise.
Fresh Oysters  – by the dozed or half dozen
Monday Special- $1 oysters all day when ordered 6 at a time.
Flemings Steak House
4432 Walnut Street at The Greene
937-320-9548

harvested by hand, flown in daily, freshly shucked and served with house-made mignonette |

Papi Grande

Foremost Seafood

1912 Woodman Center Dr, Kettering
937-298-1986
Initially just a wholesale provider, we have expanded to provide fresh seafood to local customers as well.
Here’s what’s in stock this week: In-shell chesapeake bay oysters
West Coast papi grande
Shucked
12 in-shell frozen dozen

Jay’s Seafood

Oysters on the half shell

225 E. 6th Street in the Oregon District
(937) 222-2892
Oysters on the Half Shell -Blue Point from Long Island Sound, juicy and mild in taste
Oysters Rockefeller – (6) Freshly opened oysters with fresh spinach and spices topped with mozzarella cheese

Sea Jax Tavern

5900 Bigger Road, Kettering
937.439.1664

OYSTERS RAW OR FRIED*
each extra select oyster served with Jax House made cocktail sauce, lemon wedge and saltine crackers. Delivered fresh daily- subject to sell out

 

The Paragon Super Club
797 Miamisburg Centerville Rd. Washington Twsp
(937) 433-1234

Oysters Rockefeller- A classic beginning to any meal
Fried Oysters

The Silver Slipper
1105 Wayne Ave, Dayton
(937) 344-8531

Oysters are delivered each Wednesday essentially direct from the farms. Our weekly oyster selections aim to highlight regional differences (west coast puget sound, west coast british columbia, canadian maritime and new england) as well as geographical differences (oceanic vs river influenced, beach grown vs tidal raised, etc.).  Range from $3-$4.50. Served w/ mignonette & lemon, tabasco on request, cocktail or horseradish .50¢

 

Sonora Grill
5438 Burkhardt Rd. Dayton
(937) 963-2205
Ostoines Zarandeados- 12 pieces marinated in garlic butter and a touch of chipotle perfectly grilled on the grill.

Ostoiones Permidaos – 12 fresh pieces, accompanied with shrimp and octupus ceviche.

The Pine Club 
1926 Brown St, Dayton

937-228-5371

Blue Point Oysters on Half Shell* 20.95

Got a favorite place we missed, leave us a comment below.

Gionino’s Pizzeria Open in Patterson Park Monday

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The fourth area Gionino’s Pizzeria will open Monday, August 4th in Patterson Park.  Franchise owner Tony Clark brought the Ohio based chain to Dayton in 2019 at 1528 E. Third St., next to his video arcade, DK Effect. In 2021, he added Kettering and Bellbrook locations. He’s  been working on this Wilmington Ave location for a while, but delays from Kettering’s planning office on approvals took longer than expected.

Known for its scratch-made dough, signature sweet tomato sauce, and real aged provolone cheese  they also offer a wide menu beyond pizza, including the standout Italiano Fried Chicken, Jo-Jo potato wedges, subs, salads, pasta, and Gionino Bread—garlic butter with melted cheeses and red sauce.

Two of their most popular pizzas are:

  • Gionino’s Best Pizza: Loaded with pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, bacon, black olives, and banana peppers

  • Caprese Pizza: Thin crust topped with fresh mozzarella, provolone, spinach, basil, tomatoes, and Parmesan, finished with their signature sauce

They’ll be  serving up this grand opening special basket for just $6.99 from August 4th – 7th.
  • 3 All-White Meat Fried Chicken Tenders
  • 4 JoJo’s
  • 4 oz. Coleslaw
  •  Dipping Sauce of Your Choice

 

 

Be one of the first 10 customers in line to order food and you’ll score a FREE exclusive Gionino’s T-shirt with your order! Take a picture with the Mickey Mural for a chance to win a free gift card of $100, $50, or $25!

1331 Wilmington Ave
Dayton, OH 45420
(937) 641-0780
Mon – Sat:
10:30 – 11:00 PM
Sun:
2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Local Brewery Up For Sale

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Bock Family Brewing in Washington Township near Centerville will be going up for sal soon.  It will be listed with a realtor soon, but if you have ever thought about owning a brewery, here is your chance!
Owner Jen Bock says “it was a hard decision to make.” Jen and her husband took over the license and location of Sojourner’s Distillery in 2021. In 2024 they added a German street food kitchen.  The Bocks “want to get back to our normal lives with our kid and day jobs we always still had. The brewery isn’t failing, we just ran out of gas.”
Everything is basically brand new and this is a true turn-key business. You can come in and operate on day one! The lease is 5 years at this beautifully renovated 6,000 square foot spot with ample parking. The brewery includes a 7 bbl brewhouse, six 7 bbl fermenters, hundreds of kegs, a 2 keg powerful keg washer, glycol chiller, a kitchen and lots of wood seating. The sale includes an A1C, A1A, A2, D6, Level 4 food license and 3 music licenses, as well as a Ford Transit van! Owners will stay on to train and the staff is willing to stay on as well for the right owners.
Email us at [email protected] for more information. Serious inquiries only. The sale must be finalized by the end of 2025.

Centerville’s Mudlick Tap House Soft Opening Happening Now

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Yesterday the doors opened for the first day of the soft opening of the new Mudlick Tap House in Uptown Centerville.  In September of last year they had the official ground breaking. Oberer managed to complete the build in just under a year. Yesterday a full house most of the day and the weather cooperated for enjoying the large patio as well.
The city of Centerville has created a public lot behind the restaurant, with plenty of parking.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support and enthusiasm for our new location,” said Jennifer Williams, Co-Owner of Mudlick Tap House. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome guests and to kick things off with events that give back to organizations we truly care about.”

Lots of staff, some that came from the downtown location, as well as many new faces were behind the bar, in the dining room and staffing the kitchen.
During the soft opening, Mudlick invites you to join them, but reminds you that team is still learning the ropes, so they thank you for your patience as they fine-tune the experience.

This weeks soft opening benefits SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellnes Center, next week supports Camp Joy, with their mission to help people grow and succeed through life-long experience based learning and Aug 12 – 17  will benefit HoofPrints Ohio, an equine therapy program.  Reservations can be made online for the soft opening via Mudlick’s website.  This weekend the most open reservations are for the Boozy Brunch on Saturday and Sunday. During the soft opening, Mudlick is not doing carryout orders.

Enjoy scratch-made pub fare, craft cocktails, and a welcoming vibe all while supporting causes close to the heart!
MUDLICK TAP HOUSE
110 W. Franklin St.,
Dayton, OH, 45458
937-895-4066

Open
Tues – Sun, 11am–10pm

Bacon Fest at The Fraze

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Free and open to the public, savor the flavor of breakfast’s favorite side item – the greatest food on planet Earth – BACON. Whether you’re in the crispy bacon or chewy bacon camp, you’ll love this summer festival.The 12th annual Bacon Fest will allow you to sample local restaurants and food trucks as they showcase all of the many ways you can “baconate” your mealLive Music in the Park
While you’re enjoying the food, enjoy some free live music on the Lincoln Park stage with these great bands:
W

4:00 PM: The Wet Bandits are the most unique and entertaining ’90s party band, bringing pop, rock, hip-hop, and country. The Wet Bandits are bringing you all the tunes that’ll get you singing and dancing.

Amy Newhart

6:00 PM Amy Newhart Band – Amy is wildfire fun on stage with her contagious energy and smile. She considers her sound modern honky tonk. She wants her songs to make you laugh, smile, dance and occasionally wipe a tear from your eye.

The Big Badd

8:00 PM The Big Badd – Formed in 2016, our full ensemble features multiple vocalists, a trio of horns, and a stellar rhythm section. The Big Badd blends pop, rock, funk, and jazz influences.

Participating Restaurants & Food Trucks

Enjoy food and treats with bacon-inspired dishes from these local restaurants and food trucks:

1776 Grill
Amber Rose Restaurant
Batter Up Funnel Cakes
Dawghouse
Dayton Barbecue Company
Eddie’s Roasted Corn
El Meson
Frios Gourmet Pops
Home Cooked Vibes
Lilia’s Outside Cafe
Little Boijon Asian Cuisine
Louisiana Passion Catering
Sweetumms
Tasty Bacon’s
Whit’s Frozen Custard

* All restaurants, food trucks/trailers, and vendors are subject to change without notification.

Big Yummm Burger Deal for $9.99 at Red Robin

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 Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Inc. is dishing out a new combo meal for burger lovers that is stacked and packed with value – the Big Yummm Burger Deal for just $9.99*. The YUMMM-iest deal in town features a Red’s Double Tavern Burger, choice of Bottomless Side and Bottomless Beverage for less than ten bucks, available for dine-in all day, every day at participating Red Robin restaurants.

“We don’t need to complicate this – today’s diners want great food and a great dining experience without having to dive deep into their pockets, and that’s exactly what our Big Yummm Burger Deal delivers,” said Dave Pace, president and CEO of Red Robin. “For just $9.99, guests can enjoy true value at Red Robin – including a hot, juicy, hand-smashed double patty burger, an abundant bottomless side and beverage, and great, full-service hospitality in a fun atmosphere, all for less than what many concepts charge at the drive-thru window.”

The deal includes a Red’s Double Tavern Burger, featuring two burger patties expertly smashed and seared on flattop grills then topped with Red’s Secret Tavern Sauce™, American cheese, lettuce and fresh tomato piled on a toasted sesame bun. For their Bottomless Side, guests can choose from Red Robin’s famous Steak Fries, Side House or Everything Caesar Salad, Steamed Broccoli or Yukon Chips, plus a Bottomless Soda, Lemonade or Iced Tea.

Guests will also have the option to upgrade their meal with a variety of options like Bottomless Specialty Lemonades, Chocolate, Vanilla or Strawberry Milkshakes, Bottomless Root Beer Floats, premium sides like Garlic Parmesan Fries and Sweet Potato Fries, and add-ons for their burger, for an additional price.

Red Robin’s Big Yummm Burger Deal is available at participating restaurants nationwide, starting this week. To redeem, guests can let their server know that they want the Big Yummm Burger Deal. To learn more, visit redrobin.com/the-big-yummm.

Miami Valley Red Robin Locations:

6404 Miller Lane,
Dayton, OH 45414

11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

2671 Fairfield Commons,
Beavercreek, OH 45431

11:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Yellow Springs Film Fest Kickoff to Feature Kevin Nealon

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The Yellow Springs Film Festival is a celebration of creativity, connection and innovative performances exhibiting narrative and documentary feature films, shorts of all genres, stand up comedy and live music. The festival takes place annually, the first weekend in October.  Announcement of their kick off party for the 3rd annual  festival has revealed stand up comedian Kevin Nealon will be their special guest.

Nealon is an Emmy and SAG-nominated actor and comedian who sets himself apart from other comedic performers with his unique sense of humor, dry wit and likable demeanor. Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and received critical acclaim for his role in the hit Showtime series Weeds. Kevin currently produces and hosts his digital series Hiking with Kevin, and tours his stand-up globally. He will be releasing his latest book, I Exaggerate: My Brushes with Fame (Abrams), on October 25, 2022. Part art book, part memoir — the book is full of original full-color caricatures Kevin has created along with funny, endearing personal essays about his famous friends. Past guests include Michael Keaton, Jimmy Kimmel, Lin Manuel-Miranda, Cheryl Hines, Ray Romano, Al Franken, Hilary Swank, Kumail Nanjiani, Kate Beckinsale, Conan O’Brien, Adam Sandler, and more.

As one of the longest running cast members on NBC’s Saturday Night Live (1986-1995), Nealon created some of the show’s most memorable characters, including ‘The Subliminal Man’ and ‘Hans and Franz.’ Nealon’s recurring role as an anchor on ‘Weekend Update’ helped make the sketch a show staple. In 1988, he earned an Emmy nomination as part of the SNL writing team.

Each year YSFF gives a $3,000 prize through the Julia Reichert Award to an emerging female documentary filmmaker. In addition each year the festival provides a free educational seminar open to the public and partners with Wavelength Productions to showcase a program of short films directed by female or non-binary BIPOC filmmakers. 

The kickoff is Friday, October 3 · 5 – 6:30pm at the Foundry Theater at Antioch College.  Tickets can be purchased online for $40. Announcements of films to be screened and special events still to come.

Smashburger’s $4.99 “Summer of Smash”

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Smashburger® is turning up the heat this summer with a new menu built on bold flavors, culinary craft, and unbeatable value. The “Summer of Smash” celebrates Smashburger’s iconic culinary swagger and signature smashing technique, while delivering premium quality at a price that respects the wallet.

Smashburger® Turns up the Heat with New “Summer of Smash” Menu

The lineup showcases a range of craveable new offerings like All-Angus Big Dogs, Loaded Sides, the return of the fan-favorite Smoked Brisket Bacon Smash and more. Designed to elevate the art of the Smash, the new menu leans into premium ingredients, creative innovation, and the taste obsession that made Smashburger a household name.

“Smashburger was built on the iconic, craveable technique of the OG Smash, and with this menu, we’re building on our culinary legacy, focusing on quality, flavor and innovation,” said Tom Ryan, Co-Founder of Smashburger. “These elements have always been the driving forces of our brand, and now with ‘Summer of Smash,’ we’re taking the love of craveable great taste to the next level.”

Introducing the $4.99 All-The-Time Menu
For the first time ever, Smashburger is launching a nationwide $4.99 All-The-Time Menu that delivers unbeatable value while staying true to the iconic sear and flavor Smashburger is known for. Featuring the All-American Burger, Deluxe Burger, and the new Americana Big Dog, this menu redefines expectations of what’s possible with Certified Angus Beef® and Angus Beef – making premium, crave-worthy quality more accessible than ever.

Meet the All-Angus Big Dogs

Smashburger’s new All-Angus Big Dogs are made with 100% Angus Beef and weigh in at a quarter pound each. Split and butter-grilled, they’re served on a toasted New England roll and topped with bold, great-tasting classics. Options include:

  • Americana Big Dog: Ketchup, mustard, sweet relish, diced red onions
  • Bacon Cheese Big Dog: Applewood smoked bacon, creamy cheese sauce, aged shredded cheddar
  • Chili Cheese Big Dog: Creamy cheese sauce, all-beef chili, aged shredded cheddar
  • Chili Cheese Jalapeño Big Dog: Creamy cheese sauce, all-beef chili, aged shredded cheddar, jalapeño slices

Go Big with Loaded Sides
It’s not just about the entrées. Celebrating a love for bold flavor freedom and endless variety, Smashburger is taking fan-favorite sides – like SmashFries, Smash Tots, Crispy Brussels Sprouts and more – to the next level too. Guests can now make loaded sides a reality, by adding cheese, bacon and cheese, chili cheese, or chili, cheese, and jalapeños to any other side, creating 32 different combinations.

Additional “Summer of Smash” Highlights

  • Smoked Brisket Bacon Smash: Back and better than ever, the Smoked Brisket Bacon Smash features authentic Texas smoked brisket, slow smoked for over 14 hours using hardwoods for rich, deep flavor. Served on a soft, buttery Parker House Roll, this burger delivers a smoky experience that’s sure to satisfy both new and returning guests.
  • Create Your Own: A new way to fully customize the burger experience! From bun to protein, cheese, toppings, and more, guests now have unlimited possibilities to build their perfect smash burger, just the way they like it.
  • The new Chilled Chicken Chef Salad is a fresh, tasty, and protein-packed option for guests, while the new Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Shake handspun with premium Häagen-Dazs® ice cream is the perfect cool-down treat.

“With this new menu launch, we’re expanding our offerings to bring standout variety to the table, without ever compromising on the taste, quality, and value that define our brand,” said Jim Sullivan, President at Smashburger. “Whether you’re craving something classic or bold, our new lineup offers something for everyone, all at a price that keeps us more than competitive.”

Starting today, guests can enjoy the new $4.99 All-The-Time Menu and other limited time “Summer of Smash” items at Smashburger restaurants nationwide. For more information about Smashburger and its new menu offerings, please visit www.smashburger.com.

Smashburger Locaions:

2315 Miamisburg Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459

1200 Brown St., Suite 190, Dayton, OH 45409

6731 Miller Lane, Dayton, OH 45414

What You Need to Know To Enjoy The Dayton Celtic Festival

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Dayton’s largest festival drawing nearly 100,000 people each year is this Friday – Sunday at RiverScape Metropark.  Plan an amazing weekend and support The Dayton Celtic Festivaland a celebration of Celtic culture. The free festival takes place rain or shine and festival hours are 5:30 to 11 p. on Friday, from 11:30 am to 11 pm and Saturday and 10 am to 6 pm on Sunday. All beverage sales are cashless at the festival.  Square terminals are located at all beverage locations to accept credit/debit cards and Apple Pay and Google Pay. There are over 20  food vendors onsite and they do accept cash and may also accept credit/debit cards. ATMs are located near the Information Booth at the corner of Patterson Blvd and Monument Ave. Festival organizers ask that you please leave your dogs at home this weekend.

PARKING
Two parking garages will be available including Main Street (110 N. Main Street) and Water Street Parking Garage (403 Water Street). Parking meters on the perimeter of the festival grounds will be designated forhandicapped parking. Additional handicapped parking will be available at the Water Street Parking Garage.

FREE PARKING & FREE SHUTTLE at The Dublin Pub
FREE SHUTTLE will take you to and from The Dublin Pub and the festival with no additional stops. It leaves at the top of the hour and on the :30 from The Dublin Pub, and the :15 and :45 of the hour from the festival and will operate Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is plenty of free parking surrounding The Dublin Pub

Entertainment Schedule

Pass the hat collections will occur often at the main stage and periodically at all stages. You can also donate anytime during the festival at headliner merchandise sales table at the main stage. You can also donate at each beverage sales station as you purchase your beverages.

Friday, July 25

Gaelic Storm’s storytelling, thrilling instrumentals, and devotion to traditional Celtic music have captivated their legion of fans over the last 20 years.

United Irish Main Stage

6:00-7:20pm JigJam (Ireland)
7:40-9:00pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland)
9:30-11:00pm Gaelic Storm

WHIO TV / WHIO Radio Traditional Stage

6:00-7:00pm Dogwood Road
7:20-8:20pm Fialla
8:40-9:40pm Davy Holt (Scotland)
10:00-11:00pm The Drowsy Lads

Emerald Isle Stage

6:00-6:30pm Celtic Academy of Irish Dance
7:00-7:30pm McGovern Irish Dance
8:00-9:15pm Dulahan
9:45-11:00pm Father Son and Friends

Saturday, July 26

Bluegrass and American Folk music originated from the group’s home, and now JigJam is here to take it back!

United Irish Main Stage

12:00-1:00pm Dulahan (ASL)
1:30-2:30pm Davy Holt (Scotland)
3:00-4:00pm JigJam (Ireland)
4:30-5:40pm The Drowsy Lads
6:00-7:20pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland) (ASL)
7:40-9:00pm JigJam (Ireland)
9:30-11:00pm Gaelic Storm

WHIO TV / WHIO Radio Traditional Stage

12:00-1:10pm Roving Rogues
1:30-2:00pm Miami Valley Pipes & Drums
2:20-3:10pm Dogwood Road
3:40-5:00pm Kennedy’s Kitchen (ASL)
5:30-7:00pm Davy Holt (Scotland)
7:30-9:00pm The Drowsy Lads
9:30-11:00pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland)

One of the most sought after groups in Irish music today, the worldwide ‘Sock Invasion’ continues!

Emerald Isle Stage

12:00-1:00pm Jameson’s Folly
1:20-1:50pm St. Andrews Highland Dancers
2:10-2:40pm Celtic Academy Adults
3:00-3:30 Dwyer Irish Dance
3:50-4:20pm Miami Valley Pipes and Drums
4:40-5:10pm McGovern Irish Dance
5:30-6:00pm Celtic Academy of Irish Dance
6:30-7:30pm The Pints
8:00-9:15pm Father Son and Friends (ASL)
9:45-11:00pm 9 Castle Close

Sunday, July 27

United Irish Main Stage

10:00–11:30am Irish Gaelic Mass (ASL)
12:00-1:40pm JigJam (Ireland)
2:10-3:50pm Socks in the Frying Pan (Ireland)
4:20-6:00pm Gaelic Storm (ASL)

WHIO TV / WHIO Radio Traditional Stage

12:00-1:20pm na Skylark

The Lads deliver a performance steeped in traditional roots with a fervor that leaves audiences wanting more.

1:40-2:50pm Kennedy’s Kitchen
3:10-4:20pm Davy Holt (Scotland) (ASL)
4:40-6:00pm The Drowsy Lads

Emerald Isle Stage

12:00-12:30pm McGovern Irish Dance
1:00-1:30pm Dwyer Irish Dance
1:50-2:20pm Celtic Academy of Irish Dance
2:50-4:20pm Father Son and Friends
4:50-6:00pm Dulahan

Cultural Workshops (Tent 1)

Saturday
1:00 Cú & Craic Irish Wolfhounds of Southwest Ohio – Irish Wolfhounds in Legends and Lore
2:00 Cindy Thomson – An Innocent Irish Girl Sent to an Asylum
3:00 Cathy Jo Smith – Scary Stories
Sunday
12:00 Cú & Craic Irish Wolfhounds of Southwest Ohio – Irish Wolfhounds in Legends and Lore
1:00 Kirsten Dilger | Genealogist
2:00 Cathy Jo Smith – Tales of the Irish Heart: Stories of Love and Redemption
3:00 Cindy Thomson – The Ancient Saints of Ireland
4:00 Clan Stewart

Cultural Music Workshops (Tent 2)

Saturday
2:30 Larry Fortson – The Uilleann Bagpipe
3:30 Nancy Keyser, The Riley School of Irish Music – Have some Fun with the Irish Tin Whistle
4:30 Intro to Irish Music – Dan McKewen
5:30 Randy Clepper – The Irish Bouzouki
Sunday
1:30 Larry Fortson – The Uilleann Bagpipe
2:30 Intro to Irish Music – Dan McKewen
3:30 Randy Clepper – Irish Music Accompaniment

Browse the Celtic Marketplace featuring over 40 vendors with unique items from the Celtic nations. The  Celtic Marketplace stretches the length of Monument Avenue in the heart of the Dayton Celtic Festival. Celtic shopping options run the spectrum from stoneware to kilts to jewelry and more.

Weekend Breakfast Coming to The Famous Restaurant

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After a couple test runs on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekend, Centerville’s The Famous Restaurant will make Saturday and Sunday breakfast a permanent part of their menu.  This family is the same one that for years ran The Golden Nugget Pancake House so they know how to put smiles in our belly at breakfast.  Here’s what’s on the menu:
The Famous

 


953 S. Main St.

Centerville, OH 45458
937-951-2422
Monday – Friday: 11am – 10pm
Saturday 9am  10pm
Sunday: 9am – 9pm

July 20 -27 Meal Deals for Summer Restaurant Week!

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Summer restaurant week kicks off tonight and runs through July 27th.  This week of 3 course dining deals began in 2005 (when I was President of the local restaurant association).  At the height of it’s popularity over 55 local eateries participated offering meals for $20.05, with the cost going up a penny each year.  As times have moved on and food costs have risen the 3 course meal has survived, but the price point has changed a lot due to rising food costs, with restaurants offering meals from priced between $20.25-$55.25.  Just over 20 restaurants have been announced for this summer’s promotion. A few businesses are also offering lunch options.  Please double check the hours for your destination as many of them are not open all days during the promotion.  One dollar for each meal will be donated to the MVRA Education Foundation.

Participating  Restaurants this week are:

Agave & Rye $25
All The Best Delicatessen $20.25
Amber Rose Restaurant $25.25 & 30.25
Carvers Steaks & Chops $20.25, $25.25, $30.25 & $40.25
Chappys Social House  $25.25 & $30.25
Chop House $30.24 & $35.24
Crooked Handle Brewing Co.$20.25
Dewberry 1850 $38.00
Dublin Pub For $35.00 two can share an appetizer and their choice of two entree, add a dessert for $6
El Meson $20.25 & $25.25
Figlio  $30.25
Florentine Restaurant $20.25, $25.25 and 30.25
Greek Street $20.25
Hickory River Smokehouse $20.25, $22.25 &  $25.25
Jay’s Seafood $46.25
Lucky Star Brewery and Cantina $20.25
Manna Uptown $49.25 & $55.25
Nick’s Restaurant – Two can dine for $40.25
Pies & Pints $25
SOB Steakhouse $46.25
The Caroline 34.25 & $38.25
The Melting Pot $30.25
Treasure Island Supper Club $25.25 & 30.25
Zinks Meats & Fine Wines $35.25
For complete restaurant week menu’s you can click here.