Dayton937

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

Lisa Grigsby

Q+ Card Supports Area LGBTQ+ Youth Center

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Q+ Youth Center in Dayton is run by a group of volunteers dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive space for Queer Youth to thrive.

Formed in response to the continued rise of youth suicides, specifically amongst queer and trans individuals, the Q+ Youth Center board seeks to create more than a building. The members of the board and volunteers from the community are working towards impactful and lasting change in Ohio that leads to the success and brilliance of our youth.

The Q+ Youth Center Project understands the importance of providing a safe space for 7th-12th grade students who identify as LGBTQIA+. Their mission is to empower, support, and mentor these young individuals by creating an environment where they can freely express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination.

“I hope no youth has to feel alone like I did while coming into my own being. If we can make a safe space for their growth, it will only make the future brighter. That’s worth supporting.” Michael Green, Digital Marketing Manager, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

The center’s goal is to fund youth events, mentor programs, and ultimately a brick and mortar facility with a focus on the young minds in the greater Gem city region.

You can help support them by purchasing their merchant  card good at 16 local restaurant/stores. You’ll enjoy discounts to all of your favorite Q+ supporting businesses!  Q+ Discount Card for 2025-2026!! For a $25 donation, you will get discounts ALL YEAR LONG. All donations are matched by the Kawai Family Foundation.

Businesses include: Meadowlark Wheat Penny Old Scratch Pizza Yellow Cab Tavern Michael’s Salon Barrel House Lily’s Blind Bob’s Salt Block Little Fish Brewing Baker Benji Ghostlight Coffee Maraluna Pink Moon Goods Sueno and Power Plant. Printing for the card was donated by Smales Pretzels.

Want to volunteer? The  Q+ Center relies on the kindness of dedicated volunteers. To become a part of the team, fill out the form and one of their core group of volunteers will be in touch with the next opportunity to make a change for our youth.

Summer In The Valley 4 Course Wine Dinner

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Carrabba’s Italian Grill is hosting this wine dinner on June 25th at 6:30pm that will make you feel like you’re being transported to summer in the Napa Valley, enjoying a 4 course Italian dinner paired with wines from California’s most iconic wine regions. Reserve your seats now, just $60 per person.

 

Course 1
SUMMER SHRIMP SALAD
Chilled shrimp, spinach, romaine, tomatoes, red onion, zucchini and strawberries tossed in a lemon-strawberry vinaigrette and topped with ricotta salata

WINE PAIRING: IMAGERY SAUVIGNON BLANC

Every bottle of Imagery wine features original label artwork, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to both artistry and winemaking. The wine’s bright citrus and crisp acidity pair wonderfully with the chilled shrimp, while its tropical fruit notes complement the lemon-strawberry vinaigrette
SUMMER SHRIMP SALAD
Course 2
SPAGHETTI CARBONARA WITH SCALLOPS
Spaghetti tossed in a rich cream sauce with eggs, parmesan and romano cheese, diced tomatoes and bacon topped with wood-grilled sea scallops

WINE PAIRING: MEIOMI PINOT NOIR

The name “Meiomi” is derived from a Native American word meaning “coast,” reflecting the winery’s dedication to sourcing grapes from California’s coastal regions. The wine’s bright berry notes and soft tannins complement the creamy sauce, while its subtle acidity cuts through the richness of the bacon and cheese
SPAGHETTI CARBONARA WITH SCALLOPS
Course 3
PARMESAN CRUSTED SIRLOIN
Our 10oz wood-grilled sirloin with our signature Mr. C’s Grill Baste, olive oil and herbs topped with a golden cheesy parmesan crust. Served with grilled vegetables

WINE PAIRING: JOSH CELLARS CABERNET SAUVIGNON

This Cabernet Sauvignon was the first wine made by Josh Cellars. The wine’s dark berry notes, hints of vanilla, and toasted oak complement the richness of the parmesan crust, while the wood-grilled char on the sirloin enhances the wine’s subtle smokiness
PARMESAN CRUSTED SIRLOIN
Course 4
LIMONCELLO BREAD PUDDING
House-made limoncello and vanilla custard-soaked brioche bread with limoncello syrup and vanilla ice cream

WINE PAIRING: CONUNDRUM RED BLEND

Charles F. Wagner, founder of Caymus Vineyards, would often blend different wines at the dinner table to create unique flavors that complemented their meals. The wine’s ripe berry notes, hints of chocolate, and warm spice provide a balanced counterpoint to the bright citrusy sweetness of the limoncello
LIMONCELLO BREAD PUDDING

Burger King Turns 71 and Celebrates with Deals

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Burger King is turning 71. Originally named Instant Burger King, the chain opened in 1954, a year before the first McDonald’s. A burger and milkshake restaurant, BK’s captured burger lovers’ attention in 1957 when it introduced the Whopper (just 37 cents at the time), still a staple on the menu.

In the decades since, it’s introduced countless other products, including breakfast sandwiches, chicken nuggets, chicken fries, wraps, and so much more to go with its fries, onion rings, and desserts—all designed to satisfy taste buds while traditionally offering value and letting guests “have it your way.”

Burger King is celebrating its birthday by giving away free burgers, mozzarella fries, onion rings, and other menu favorites all month long.  To get a new freebie each day, you must be a member of Burger King’s Royal Perks, its rewards program.
Here’s what you can get:

  • June 4: National Cheese Day means a free order of Mozzarella Fries (4 pc.) with a $1+ purchase for an extra cheesy snack.
  • June 15: To celebrate father figures on their special day, give the gift of a BOGO Whopper, available all Father’s Day long.
  • June 22: For National Onion Ring Day (because this favorite side deserves a day all its own), members can redeem a free order of Onion Rings (any size!).
  • June 1-June 30: Enjoy BOGO Impossible Whoppers all month long.

Celebrate National Hamburger Day with These Restaurant Deals

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If you didn’t get your fix of burgers during Memorial Day weekend, you’re in luck because National Hamburger Day is Wednesday, May 28 and celebrates the juicy, flame-grilled meal staple that reminds us all of the long, sunny days of summer.Americans eat an estimated 50 billion burgers. The average U.S consumer eat 26 burgers per year from restaurants, drive-throughs and other food service operations, according to Circana, based on research from the 12 months ending March 2025.

To celebrate National Hamburger Day, many restaurants are cooking up some tantalizing deals. Below, we’re sharing some that our tempting our taste buds:

Red Robin

Red Robin Royalty members who buy a burger and a drink during the month of May will automatically be entered into a contest for the chance to win free burgers for the whole year. Only 12 people will be selected to win.

The Root Beer Stande

Burger King

Members of the chain’s Royal Perks program can receive a free hamburger with a purchase of $1 or more. Loyalty members can also score a hamburger for 125 crowns — half the usual reward cost of 250 crowns — through the end of the month.

Deals must be activated through the Burger King app.

Sonic Drive-In

Get half-price Cheeseburgers when you order in the Sonic app on Tuesday, May 27, after 5 p.m. Also available after 5 p.m. through the end of the month – half price shakes in the app.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

Classic Cheeseburger Pizookie Meal Deal for $13: Comes with a cheeseburger, lettuce, tomatoes, dill pickles, burger sauce, fries and a personal Pizookie. You can also get their Classic Cheeseburger Bundle starting at $45: Comes with four cheeseburgers, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, salad and chips or fries.

Wendy’s

Now through June 1, customers can get a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for 1 cent with any Wendy’s purchase. The offer can be redeemed on the Wendy’s app. New deals will be added to the app beyond June 1 as part of the company’s 100 Days of Savings.

 

Dairy Queen

Cooling down with a Blizzard may be DQ’s bread and butter, but their burgers have a following all their own.

That’s why Dairy Queen is offering an extended deal from May 26 through June 1. To celebrate National Hamburger Day, rewards members can get a second Signature Stackburger for 99 cents when they buy one at regular price. This is available through the DQ Mobile App.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Known for its wings, the restaurant chain also offers burgers. In honor of National Hamburger Day, customers can score a half-price All-American Cheeseburger, Triple Bacon Cheeseburger, or other burger by using the code GOBURGER when ordering takeout or delivery. The offer is not valid for customers dining at Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants.

 

Rally’s

From May 27 to May 29, get The Cheese Double combo for $3.

Perkins


For National Hamburger Month in May, the restaurant chain has added to the menu The Great American Burger Trio – a cheeseburger, fries, and pie – for $9.99. Also, you can join the Perkins e-Club loyalty program and get 20% off your next visit.

Smashburger

If the siren call of smashburgers gets you through the door every time, rejoice: Smashburger has a special deal for National Hamburger Day. For one day only, on May 28, the chain is offering all burgers for just $5.28, no minimum purchase required. To take advantage of the deal, use code JUST528 at checkout for delivery or online orders, or visit a location in person.

$7.99 Lunch Specials at Centerville Eatery

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Here’s what’s on the menu:
Monday – Lunch BLT
Bacon, lettuce, tomato & mayo. 390-550 calories

Tuesday – Classic Turkey
Roasted Turkey, lettuce, tomato & mayo. 420-580 calories
 Wednesday – Mediterranean Veg Out
Hummus or cream cheese, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, green pepper & red onion. 370-620 calories
Thursday – Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken breast, mayo, lettuce & tomato.   450-610 caloreis

Friday – Ham & Cheddar
Ham, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato & mayo. 490-650 calories

Stop by and enjoy a fresh, satisfying lunch—because great food should come at a great price!

My Favorite Muffin

175 E Alex Bell Road
Centerville, OH 45459

937-434-2535

Mamacitas Cantina Summer Menu Now Out

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Mamacitas Cantina, a modern Latin fusion restaurant and bar recently celebrated their first anniversay and now they’ve released an updated menu. They say they’ve poured their r hearts into crafting these new dishes, bringing you bold flavors, rich traditions, and a taste of something truly special.

 


 

 

 

Mamacitas Cantina
1060 Patterson Rd,
Dayton, OH 45420
937-640-3180

Sun – Thurs noon – midnight
Fri & Sat noon – 2:30am

Graeter’s Unleashes the Beast Feast!

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Graeter’s Ice Cream has unleashed its latest creation: Beast Feast: Cookie Dough Unleashed.

The limited-time flavor, inspired by Kings Island’s iconic wooden roller coaster, The Beast, debuts today as part of Graeter’s summer Bonus Flavors, the Bake Shop 2025 collection.

The Beast Feast is a thrill ride for your taste buds, featuring monster chunks of sugar cookie dough with colorful rainbow sprinkles swirled into a creamy cookie butter ice cream base.

The flavor is a tribute to the adrenaline-pumping fun of The Beast, which has been thrilling riders since 1979 with its record-breaking 7,361-foot track—more than 1.4 miles long—and a ride time of over four minutes. Kings Island crews recently replaced over 1,600 feet of the coaster’s track, ensuring it remains a legendary experience for years to come.

“This collaboration captures the joy of two Cincinnati icons,” Chip Graeter, fourth-generation owner of Graeter’s Ice Cream said. “It’s cookie dough unleashed, just like the roller coaster itself. You won’t want to miss this one!”

Beast Feast is available for a limited time at Graeter’s scoop shops, by the pint at Graeters.com for nationwide shipping, and by the scoop at Graeter’s location on International Street at Kings Island.

The summer Bonus Flavors lineup also includes Cinnamon Sticky Bun, Blueberry Lemon Crumble, Pineapple Passion Sorbet, Minty Brownie, and Caramel Pecan Cheesecake.

Out On 5th is Back For The Summer

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Out on 5th is back for another summer season!

Out on 5th is the street closure of Fifth Street in the Oregon District of downtown Dayton on weekends: Fridays 5 -10 pm/ Saturdays noon – 10 pm / Sundays noon – 10 pm.

Closing down Fifth Street from Patterson Boulevard to Wayne Avenue every Friday night through Sunday evening allows
our business district to open up the street for guests to shop – dine – and relax in the open air.

  • Out on 5th gives restaurants and bars in the district room to expand patio seating into the streets.

  • Fifth Street is filled with public seating to allow guests room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.

  • Retail shops can use extra sidewalk space in front of their business for sales. Looking to hold a retail pop-up? Apply here.

  • Local entertainment will be in the district every weekend to enhance the atmosphere. Looking to be an entertainer? Apply here.3.jpg

Parking

Thousands of parking spaces on surface lots, parking garages, or metered side streets (free on weekends) surround the Oregon District.

During Out on 5th, please use the detour map at the bottom of this page to navigate around the street closures and into the parking lots.

Our Oregon District businesses kindly ask you to park in these lots, garages or public street spaces, and not in the residential neighborhood.

OO5 Parking Map.jpg

DORA in the District

The Oregon District is a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) – which allows patrons to purchase an alcoholic beverage served in a branded cup and enjoy that beverage outdoors, within the boundaries of the DORA. Find more info on the Oregon District’s DORA webpage.

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Public tables vs. private patios

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As part of Out on 5th, some Oregon District businesses have expanded their private patios for their paid guests into the street.

But there are several public tables set up for you to enjoy

Look for this sticker on public tables anyone can sit at:

 

Driving to Out on 5th

With Fifth street closed, the official detour is using Wayne Avenue, Fourth Street and Patterson Boulevard to access parking to visit Out on 5th.

To access the parking lots on the north side of Fifth Street, turn onto Jackson from Wayne Avenue.

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Follow The Strawberry Spirits Trail!

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Strawberry Season has arrived in Troy! As the Community is gearing up for the Troy Strawberry Festival (June 7th & 8th) you can take part in the Strawberry Spirits Trial that will be taking place throughout the City.
At a dozen participating locations you will find Strawberry Drinks that are available May 12th thru June 8th. Check out the Virtual Map – HERE

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Sprite Drops Refreshing Take on Tea

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Sprite + Tea hits the market on the heels of last summer’s hit Sprite Chill, which became the No. 1 selling sparkling soft drink innovation at Coca‑Cola in 2024, earning a sustaining spot in the Sprite portfolio lineup. Schaufelberger said the team hopes Sprite + Tea will become a year-over-year seasonal offering like the holiday fan-favorite Sprite Winter Spiced Cranberry.

“The Sprite + Tea concept started out as an intern research project, which is really fun and interesting,” adds A.P. Chaney, Senior Creative Director, Sparkling Flavors North America. “When it blew up on TikTok with millions of views, it was a gut check that we were on the right track. Because you never go wrong when you listen to consumers and tap into what they’re doing by becoming part of their everyday.”

Flavor innovations are a growth driver for Sprite, which is now the No. 3 sparkling soft drink brand in North America. LTOs present a fun creative challenge for the Sprite team due to limited time in market and the need to communicate multiple messages. “I love innovations, because we can take bigger swings with our marketing,” Chaney added. “Sprite has never rested on our laurels, so we’ll always continue to push ourselves to do what’s right for our consumers and the business with innovations like Sprite + Tea.”

 

 

Gulzar’s Indian Cuisine – Now Bigger and Better

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Deepika & Jay

After just 3 years in business Gulzer’s Indian Cuisine has moved.  The new space more than doubles the seating going from 73 seats to 168, which includes private space to reserve for meetings or events.  But don’t panic, they are literally moving just next door to the former Flyboy Deli spot at 219 N. Patterson Blvd, across from the Day Air Ballparkb downtown.

Deepika Singh, who owns the restaurant with her husband Jay, was kind enough to give me a tour, but was quick to point out that all the finishing touches were still in progress as I was taking pictures. She says they really weren’t looking for a new place, but when the space became available, it just seemed like the right thing to do.  She also hinted that they’ll hold on the space next door and that may become an American restaurant in the future.

The transformation of the space is impressive, bringing in the bright colors, wall accents and more to create an Indian flare in the eatery.   The Singh’s are proud to offer a sanctuary wher people can escape the stresses of daily and simply enjoy moments of good food and good company.

A bigger space means a bigger buffet and an addition of an ice cream cooler as well. The buffet is available for lunch, seven days a week and offers many vegetarian options.

You can now sit at the bar and enjoy a mango lassi, cocktail or a bottle of wine with your meal.

Or grab a table across from the bar.

One of two area’s that be reserved for private events:

Also with the new space, a new menu, with Owner Jay and his father, Paramjeet, are the  chefs. Tbey are best known for  recipes from the northern region of India, especially their Karai dishes – which blend three sauces cooked with ginger, garlic, onions, and pepper as a base. In Indian food its all about the curry and gravy’s are the foundation for each dish and then flavors are built from there. Here’s just a peek of the menu:

Monday – Friday, (Lunch Hours) 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Gulzer’s Indian Cuisine

219 North Patterson Blvd
Dayton, OH 45402

937-985-9420


Mon Thurs 11am  – 2:30pm and 5-9pm
Fri 11am  – 2:30pm and 5-10pm 
Sat 11am – 3:30pm and 5-10pm
Sun 12 – 3:30 and 5-9pm

Wasabi To Open in Springboro

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After much anticipation Wasabi Japanese Cuisine is ready to open it’s doors in Springboro. Owner Leona Li took a few minutes to talk with us while she was waiting on the health inspector to give them their final occupancy permit.  If all goes well, they will open Friday May 16th at 11am. Located in the former China Cottage space, the 130 seat eatery been remodeled into a serene space with lots of greenery and booth seating, though the kitchen lay out  remains the same with some new equipment.

contributed photo

Leona says she’s worked in restaurants since she was 17 and after 20 years decided it was time to open her own place.  She choose Springboro because she feels it will allow her to create a small town community feel, where she’ll get to know her customers and enjoy a slower pace than big city life.
From expertly crafted sushi and sashimi to sizzling teppanyaki and comforting ramen, the menu is a celebration of traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist. The menu is vast, offering raw and hibachi options some  fried food and a few signature Chinese dishes as well. Here’s a peek at some of the menu:
Leona explained that all sauces and salad dressing are made in house with fresh ingredients.
Asian Dishes:
While mostly staffed up, they are still currently hiring for servers and hosts.
Wasabi Japanese Cuisine
784 N. Main Street
Springboro, OH 45066
937-907-5010
Mon – Thurs 11am -3pm, 4-9:30pm
Fri 11am -3pm, 4-10:30pm
Sat noon – 10:30pm
Sun noon – 9:30pm

Springboro, OH 45066

937-907-5010

Mon – Thurs 11am -3pm, 4-9:30pm
Fri 11am -3pm, 4-10:30pm
Sat noon – 10:30pm
Sun noon – 9:30pm

Zen Grill Now Open in Kettering

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Zen Grill at 2821 Wilmington Pike is now open, between Jersey Mike’s Subs and Wingstop in Kettering!  Owned by Hannah & Bob Hannah Huang, say their meals are a balance of simplicity and taste—grilled proteins, crisp vegetables, and fragrant rice, elevated with their signature sauces. It’s everything you love, with nothing you don’t.

The express hibachi menu is thoughtfully crafted to highlight fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and the timeless art of Japanese cooking.

All food will be cooked to order with customers choosing the base, meat, vegetables and sauces for their bowls. Their signature sauce for the bowls is a yum yum sauce (a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce), but other options include  ginger, teriyaki, soy or siracha sauces.

Discover the beauty of less at Zen Grill—where flavor speaks louder than words.

 

Zen Grill
2821 Wilmington Pike
Kettering, OH 45419

937-716-1369

Tues – Thurs: 10:30am – 9pm

Fri – Sun  10:30am – 9:30pm

Rob’s Restaurant and Catering Has New Owners

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Rob’s Restaurant and Catering in Brookville has new owners.  Chad and Heather Pennington are the The husband and wife team are the 3rd set of owners to lead this family friendly eatery. Opened originally in 1976 by Bob and Brenda Kilgore, it was then purchased in 2003 by Joe and Shelley Swartztrauber.  Joe passed away in 2017 and Shelley posted today on her facebook page that she has officially retired. Here’s an excerpt from her post:

Shelley

“Rob’s has been a family business from the beginning with generations of family and friends working here. To the hundreds of people who have worked here through the years, I thank you. I’m sure you all have at least one memorable story to tell.

To Candi and Emily, we have been together since the beginning. You know how I feel about you and your support has meant the world to me.Jake and Sheila, thank you for being by my side the last 8 years and I’m thankful for your diligence and support. I wouldnt have made it without the four of you.
To my children Kelby & Kinsey, my dad, and my husband, Eric, thank you for being my strength and walking with me through the difficult times and celebrating the great times. Rob’s has provided a great life for us and we do not take that for granted.
The new owners, Chad and Heather Pennington,plan to continue the Rob’s traditional recipes both in house and for catering. I hope everyone will come see the renovations they have done and support them and my amazing staff. A final thank you to the Brookville Community.
Bob & Joe, I hope I carried on your legacy. It has been my honor.❤️“
We’ve reached out to the new owners and they have asked for some time to “get their ducks in a row” before they are ready to chat with the media. 
 

Rob’s Restaurant & Catering
705 Arlington Rd
Brookville, OH 45309

(937) 833-3310

Hours:
Tues- Thurs : 8am – 8pm
Fri & Sat 7am – 9pm
Sun 7am – 8pm

Warped Wing Celebrates 11 Years with Beer Bash & Urban Smokeout

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Warped Wing Brewing Company announces the return of their Anniversary Beer Bash & Urban Smokeout, taking place Saturday, May 17th starting at noon at their original Downtown Dayton Taproom to celebrate 11 amazing years of craft beer and community.

“Last year’s 10-year party was an absolute blast – we had such a great time, we thought, why not do it again?,” said Nick Bowman, Co-Founder and VP of Sales & Marketing. “It’s the perfect way to kick off summer – cold beer, smoked foods, good friends, and live tunes”.

The party kicks off at noon, rain or shine, with festivities expanding outdoors under a tented lot and featuring the beloved Trotwood Trailer, live music and DJs all day, and a lawn-chair-friendly setup perfect for hanging with friends.

The tap list is stacked with fan favorites like Fly Light Lager, Gamma Bomb IPA, and Ermal’s Belgian Style Cream Ale, alongside limited releases like Trotwood Lime and the long-awaited return of Magic Melon Watermelon Gose and SeñorWITa Mexican Style Witbier. Guests can also look forward to the debut of Gamma Juice IPA (available on draft), Superdelic Double IPA (available on draft and in cans), as well as Agave Spring Maibock aged in Tequila Barrels (available on draft and in bottles). Plus of course Warped Seltzer and housemade soda cans too!

On the menu: Outside you’ll find house-smoked brisket and pulled pork sandwiches along with classic beef hot dogs. Inside, the kitchen will be firing up a full lineup of crave-worthy options including Tater Bombs, smoked wings, burgers, sandwiches, and more – designed to pair perfectly with a pint (or two).

Music Schedule:
12–1pm: DJ Set
1–3pm: Benny Hill (acoustic Americana, rock, country)
3–4pm: DJ Set
4–6pm: Steven Gregory (singer-songwriter vibes)
6–7pm: DJ Set
7–9pm: Nothing But Treble (acoustic trio)
9–10pm: DJ Set

So grab your crew, bring a lawn chair, and come raise a glass with us at the Warped Wing 11th Anniversary Beer Bash & Urban Smokeout!

Rolled Ice Cream Shop Reopens

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Today is the Season Opening for  I Heart Ice Cream, Dayton’s first & only Rolled Ice Cream spot, located at 9 N. Williams St. in the Wright-Dunbar District of Dayton. Starting at noon today there will be $5 milkshakes, and all guest can enter to win free ice cream for the month of June!

 

The Thai inspired ice cream shop, run by Liz Smith began as a vendor at 2nd Street Market and a food truck. The shop offers a rolled ice cream, made by pouring a liquid base onto a super cold surface and then scraping and rolling it into thin, long strands, creating a visually appealing, almost artistic dessert.  This method, sometimes called stir-fried ice cream, results in a denser, creamier texture and allows for endless customization with toppings and flavors.  Toppings are often added to the base with Oreo, Berries & Cream and Resse’s Peanut Butter Cup among the most popular.

Bring Mom in on Sunday for a FREE Mother’s Day Ice Cream when you buy one for yourself!

I Heart Ice Cream

9 North Williams Street,
Dayton, OH 45402

Wed – Fri 4-8pm
Sat noon – 8pm
Sun noon – 6pm