‘Oh My God….there are actually 4 seats at the bar!’ The voice rings out in the room filled with red leather rolling chairs, a cast of regulars, and a beloved bartender, Grace. ‘It’s really like finding a treasure!’ says the lady before plopping down with her husband and another thankful couple.
If you know Treasure Island Supper Club, tucked ever-so humbly at 4250 Chief Woods Lane in Moraine, you know seats at the bar are a premium. And be aware, there are folks who know those seats quite well, and have sat in them for decades!
The storied restaurant, known for its nautical decor, is having a moment….or perhaps it always has. Stepping into the space is the perfect blend of ‘what was’ and ‘what is’…and, oh, the sunken bar, still sought by ‘never-been-theres!’ That bar always brings a smile! ‘That’s amazing!’ Said one recent friend of mine, a virgin to TI. ‘I can’t believe I have never set foot in this place.’ he goes on…and it is hard to believe for someone who has roots in Dayton for over 40 years now. People don’t know what they are missing.
We sit, and Grace (aka Gracie), who too many is the face of Treasure Island, quickly grabs us a cocktail and sets down a menu. I have seen it 1000 times, but for some reason, I still have to remind myself, look to the right for the daily specials. As I am perusing the night’s food choices, all sounding yummy,
my Maker’s and soda comes…and it’s a right-sized cocktail! (Thank You TI!)
I have favorites at Treasure Island. I think the pickerel on Tuesday always hits the mark; Monday’s broasted chicken is some of the best and I have never had a salad there I didn’t like. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention what many hold near and dear…the CRACKER BASKET, with BUTTER! Talk about indulgence. For many of my closest friends, Treasure Island is a ‘go-to’ because you can rest assured you won’t leave hungry! To-Go boxes are plentiful at TI!
If the bar is packed, and it usually is, the dining room and it’s ornate tables, is a great place to chew and chat. The waitresses, who folks know and love, are fun-loving, know the menu and are not afraid to make suggestions (which is helpful!). They love a joke, a story or just a ‘It’s good to see you.’ Eat there twice, and believe me, you will feel that ‘belonging’ many folks speak of.
I’ve been coming to TI since I first taught school just down the street off of Dryden. After-school, we would head there for a quick cocktail and it has always been consistent….consistently satisfying!
Dayton has a love of supper clubs…think about it! Oakwood Club, Pine Club, Paragon, etc….and each of them has their own air, their own atmosphere. Treasure Island has exactly what it needs! Great food, super service, cocktails of size and LOYAL guests. That’s GOLD!
I, like many, don’t want the secret of Treasure Island getting out…it’s one of the best-kept in the area. But, truth be told, Treasure Island is one that needs to be shared. They deserve the praise they receive (see their Facebook Reviews) and the devoted fans who have shown up for decades. Go, discover the GEM that is Treasure Island!
Banquets and Parties Welcome.
They are Closed on Sundays.
More Info…Call (937) 299-6161.
HOURS
Mon – Thu 11a – 9p
Fri – Sat 11a – 10p
