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Amber Rose

Amber Rose Announces Craft Beer Dinner

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Make plans now to head out to Old North Dayton for a four course craft beer dinner, which kicks off a year long celebration of Amber Rose’s 25th anniversary.   Originally built in 1910 by Sigmund Ksiezopolski, it ran as a general store and deli named Sig’s up until the 1980′s.  The family ran the general store downstairs and resided upstairs as their family quarters.  The National Guard stayed with the family during the Great Flood of 1913.  In 1989 Elinor Sluzas acquired the building with the intention of opening a restaurant.  Before the scheduled grand opening there was a horrific fire and a portion of the building had to be rebuilt.  The restaurant officially opened for business in 1990.  Elinor may have retired but her recipes have stayed the same.

On Thursday, February 26th at 6:30pm Amber Rose will host a tasting for beer and foodie fans in their upstairs dining room.   Owner Joe Castellano shared the pairing menu with us:

hofbrau_original_face_2___43715_origFirst Course
Bratwurst & Braised Cabbage Bruschetta
Beer Pairing: Hofbrau Original

 

beer-_557016_sm_774f0999a1bff5b64b5e7b1234c46eSecond Course
Brown Sugar Chipolte Salmon with grilled asparagus with citrus glace
Beer Pairing: Warped Wing Ermal’s Belgian Style Cream Ale

 

images-1Third Course
Tomato & Cheese sausage stuffed pork loin with orzo pilaf
Beer Pairing: Erdinger Dunkel
deschutes_bbpFourth Course
Chocolate Raspberry Mousse
Beer Pairing: Deschutes Black Butte Porter

 

To reserve your seat for just $30 for call Amber Rose at 937.228-2511.  The restaurant is located at 1400 Valley Street, with plenty of free parking in their own well lighted parking lot.

The Top 25 Soups of Dayton

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Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup from Fresco – Click to Enlarge

As the weather turns colder, nothing warms the soul like a good bowl of soup.  Our DaytonMostMetro Food Adventures crew, Chef House, The King, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu, have compiled our list  of  Dayton’s Best Soups.  From the first steaming spoonful, to that little bit of liquid left in the bottom, these are the best bowls of chow that the Miami Valley has to offer.  So, all you serious foodies sit back, get some crackers if need be, and check out our list of MUST EAT soups.

 

In no particular order, here they are…

DAYTON’S TOP 25 SOUPS

 

1) THE JUMBALAYA at BUCKIN’ DONKEY GRILLE:  For 15 years, owner Sean McKown has perfected his Jumbalaya recipe.  He tested it on friends and family, and the end product is a culmination of those efforts.  The result is a masterpiece in a cup.  Filled with sausage and seafood, it has just the right amount of tangy flavor and heat.  We squirt some hot sauce on this bad boy and go to town..

 

2) CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP from FRESCO: Homemade chicken broth from scratch.  Fall off the bone chicken pieces, vegetables tortilla strips and a dollop of sour cream on top.  This is one of those moments where you lose yourself in a heavenly bliss.  This is the best chicken tortilla soup we have ever eaten, made by the best chef in Dayton, Jenn DiSanto.  This soup is Chef House’s favorite !

 

“The Shrimp and Pork Soup” at Linh’s Bistro is Pho-nomenal !

3) SALMON BISQUE at SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD: Creamy, with fresh salmon chunks, this rich soup is a crowd pleaser.  We can’t think of a better soup on a crisp cold day.   The fresh thyme, dill and other spices, finish the flavor, making this soup one of our favorites.  We already are in love with many of Sweeney’s appetizers, now we have another gem added to the list.

 

4) THE LOBSTER BISQUE from DELI at WEBSTER ST. & TOP OF THE MARKET: Served piping hot in a generous bowl, we were blown away by the lobster flavor balance with the creaminess of the bisque.  The soup is absolutely delicious, and very filling.  Congrats to the Deli on Webster & Top of the Market for staying true to the elegance of this soup,yet putting a hearty, delicious spin on it.  This is one of The Big Ragu’s favorites !

 

5) THE SHRIMP and PORK SOUP at LINH’s BISTRO:  Welcome to the enormous bowl world of the “Pho Soups” offered at Linh’s Bistro.  This meal sized soup contains broth, shaved pork and pieces of shrimp.   Sure you can get it with clear rice noodles, but we prefer this Vietnamese soup with the egg noodle option (#34 on the menu). Vegetables and scallions also line the bowl, but that’s not all.  The soup is served with a side plate of jalapenos, bean sprouts cilantro and lime.  Hand pull some cilantro and dump the rest of the side items into the bowl.  This soup defines the words Food Adventure.

 

The Woodhouse Chili at Archer’s Tavern: A good story behind it

6)  THE CABBAGE ROLL SOUP from VOLTZY’s ROOT BEER STAND: The best soup in a root beer stand in the United States.  Voltzy homemakes this stuff with cabbage, tomatoes, rice and his signature burger meat.  In his words, it is so delicious, it will make you sing “Touch me in the Morning.”  Cabbage rolls not your style? Then try his almost equally delicious “Cream of Vandalia Onion Soup.”  Yes, Vandalia like the city.. Voltzy is nuts.

 

7) THE POTATO SOUP at DOUBLEDAY’S GRILL & TAVERN: In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one shines.  This soup has wowed Dayton crowds for decades, and has somewhat of a cult following.  Doubleday’s large menu makes this a perfect starter to a great meal.  The rich, creamy flavor is a great warm up, for a snowy day.

 

8) THE NEW ORLEANS STYLE GUMBO at JIMMIES LADDER 11:  Hearty, rich and just the right spiciness, this soup is one of those “OMG” moments when you take a bite.  Owner Jimmie Brandell is no stranger to soups, having cooked at one of the iconic “Upper Krust” locations for years.  He hones his craft, and has hit the mark on this one.  Order a bowl and wake up your taste buds.  Goes perfect with their craft beer selections !

 

 

The Warm Goodness of North China’s “Sizzling Rice Soup”

9) THE CHILI AT ARCHER’S TAVERN: Now here is a good story.  Every year, Archer’s holds a chili cookoff, and the winning chili goes on the menu for a year.  All proceeds from the contest go to the Centerville High School’s Culinary Arts Program!  The result is an amazing chili and a charitable donation!  The current “Woodhouse Chili” is made with fire roasted tomatoes and jalapenos.  It is topped with cheese and Fritos.  Probably the spiciest of the delicious soups on our list.  That’s why it is “The King’s” favorite on the list.

 

10) THE CLAM CHOWDER AT BULLWINKLE’S:  Clam Chowder at a rib place?  The answer is yes, young Jedi.  This soup is homemade and downright addicting.  Chunks of clams in a mix of potatoes and cream sauce make this one of our “Must Eats.”  Not many people know about this soup, but now you do.  We are not responsible for any addictions.  Make sure you start your meal here with this savory favorite.

 

11) THE SIZZLING RICE SOUP at NORTH CHINA:  This masterpiece is actually a meal sized bowl for 2 as listed on the menu.  But sometimes, we get a wild hair, and order this as a meal.  Sure you can get this soup as an appetizer, but who wants to share something this good?  The flavor is a perfect balance of vegetables and rice in a broth flavored with a hint of salt.  In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one can’t be ignored.  They have another mega soup that almost made our list, the “House Noodle Soup” is a must eat too!

 

The Lobster Bisque at the Deli at Webster Street is delicious

12) CHICKEN GUMBO from DISALVO’S DELI: Another homemade soup from scratch.  Perfectly carved, generous chicken pieces, line a delicately light broth.  The bowl is filled with a treasure trove of vegetables and tremendous flavor.  Chef Ronnie DiSalvo takes pride in his food, and this is another example of his incredible creations.  It is made with love from the heart, straight to your mouth!

 

13) THE MUSHROOM BISQUE at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: Vegetarians  rejoice!  This Dayton soup is for you.  A fresh, home made delicious recipe means a warm feeling in every spoonful.  The taste of the fresh mushrooms is incredible.  Christopher’s thrives on making quality, homemade soups, and this choice is the star.  Check it out and pair it with one of their delicious sandwiches.

 

14) THE TURTLE SOUP at THE AMBER ROSE: This soup is exotic, thick and hearty.  We absolutely love Amber Rose’s spin on this old school favorite.  We aren’t sure how traditional it is, but it is beyond good.  This is one of those things that you eat and immediately want more.  Try it for yourself as an appetizer to an Eastern European meal.

 

15) THE WILD MUSHROOM SOUP FROM HAWTHORNE GRILL: It is pure comfort in a bowl.  The soup is creamy, bold and flavorful.  Hawthorne Grill puts out some great dishes, and this is one you need to get your hands on.  This weather is the perfect time to try this unique, homemade item.

“The Pickle Soup” at Blind Bob’s is a Dayton Original

 

16) THE PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S: Don’t be fooled by the sound of it, this is one of the best soups in Dayton.  The flavor isn’t sharp, it is surprisingly level.  If you like cream of broccoli soup, this is an even better spin on it.  We congratulate Blind Bob’s for not only the uniqueness, but for the amazing taste.  This is a great warm up right before you try one of their burger selections!

 

17) DUBLIN PUB’S “WORLD FAMOUS POTATO SOUP”: It must be world famous, because it is downright incredible.  It is rich, filling and sinful.  We suggest getting it in the Sourdough bowl and add cheese and bacon on it.  We also recommend taking a nap after you eat it.  This soup is Hungry Jax’s top pick!

 

18) CREAMY CHICKEN SOUP at CHINA COTTAGE:  This is a house specialty, and we have never seen a creamy chicken soup offered at a Chinese restaurant other than here.  There is good reason.  No one else’s chicken soup could compare.  It is a deliciously light cream soup that cleanses the pallet and readies your taste buds for those spicy dishes made from Chef Tiger Wang.  This soup is definitely a Dayton Original.

 

19) THE GUINNESS ONION SOUP AT NICK’S RESTAURANT:  Always made from scratch buy their “soup nazi.”  This soup is served in a unique bowl, with a mound of cheese and few gigantic croutons.  But what hit us most is the rich flavor.   Hot broth dripping down your chin, as you swallow some of the gooey cheese.  Take a spoonful and you will see why this restaurant is the pride of Xenia.

 

“The Chicken Gumbo” at DiSalvo’s Deli. You wont see this online anywhere else, we got the scoop !

20)  THE HOT AND SOUR SOUP at YOUNG CHOW:  Yes , it made the list because it is that good.  And guess what else, the price is right.  We scald ourselves every time, because we cant wait to get into this soup’s shredded goodness.  A perfect balance of tofu, pepper and pork, this hot and sour soup is fantastic.  We looked at your fortune cookie, it says you need to go to Young Chow.

 

21) HOMEMADE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP from ALL SOUPED UP:  The 2nd Street market has some tremendous food shops.  In the middle of the market, “All Souped Up” is impressing the masses with creations like their Chicken Noodle Soup.  Homemade noodles, pieces of delicate chicken, and a small balance of vegetables make this soup.  It tastes like something your mom or grandmother would make.   It is fun to take a seat at the market and enjoy this soup and get lost in the goodness.

 

 22) THE COCONUT SOUP at SIAM PAD THAI: Another exotic choice on this list.  Cherry tomatoes, lime juice and mushrooms highlight the ingredients in this soup.  The tangy, light flavor make this soup the most refreshing on our list.  If you have not been to Siam Pad Thai, we suggest you pair it with one of their pad thai dishes, or specialty sushi rolls. We promise you will be craving this soup in no time.

 

23) THE GUMBO at RUE DUMAINE:  This is a no brainer.  Hello, the owner/Chef Anne Kearney studied under Food Netwoork superstar, Emeril Lagasse.  Needless to say, when it comes to New Orleans’ flavors, she knows what she is doing.  This award winning chef has a menu unparalleled n Dayton.  We have found the perfect start to a meal at Rue Dumaine.

 

The Guinness Onion Soup at Nick’s Restaurant in Xenia is sinfully gooey

 

24) THE CLAM CHOWDER at JAY’S SEAFOOD:  When a soup is a Dayton icon and a Dayton staple for decades, it has to make the list.  Whether you are 8 years old, or 80, people love this soup and have fond memories associated with it.  The creamy broth, the chunks of fresh clams, and the perfect dash of pepper make this soup.  Cracker sor not, you are in for a treat when you sit down for a cup or bowl of this deliciousness… so go for the bowl.

 

25) TEQUILA CHILI at LUCKY’S TAPROOM:  Unique blast of flavor from the kitchen at Lucky’s.  Owner Andrew Trick has developed an underground mass following of his terrific food, and this chili is a highlight on the menu.  They offer a regular or vegetarian option.  Recommendation: There is no better pairing on this list than the Tequila Chili and one of Lucky’s numerous craft beers.  So go to Lucky’s, thumb through the beer booklet, pick one out, and thank us later.

 

That’s it, that’s our list !  What did we miss?  Do you agree or disagree with our choices ??  Please comment below and tell us your thoughts.

Meanwhile, check out our incredible photo gallery of Dayton’s best soups, below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !

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Video Proof: Amber Rose Restaurant is Haunted !

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The Ghost that Haunts The Amber Rose

First and foremost, The Amber Rose Restaurant has some of the most delicious comfort food in Dayton.  This eatery has some terrific Eastern European style food.  But there is a spooky side to this place on 1400 Valley Street in Dayton.  Yes, this Food Adventure fright comes right in time for Halloween.  That’s right, Big Ragu and the Crew have the inside scoop on the The Amber Rose.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The building was built in 1912 by Sigmunt Ksiezopolski and was a general store through the 1980’s

— In 1989 Elinor Sluzas bought the building and opened the Amber Rose a year later.   The menu was her own Lithuanian recipes, and her twists on Eastern European favorites.

— Named Amber Rose for the Amber jewels mined in Lithuania and Northern Europe, and Rose symbolizing love and compassion.

— in 1998, owner Joe Castellano bought the restaurant, and still uses Elinor’s recipes.  The entire staff is very friendly.

— Practically every item is homemade.  This is a restaurant that does things the way it should be… from scratch.  If it isn’t made ‘in-house,’ it is bought from local vendors.

— The Amber Rose does a lot of catering for business events, weddings, etc.  In fact, it is the largest part of their business.

— Banquet Room upstairs, and a meeting room as well, allows an option for wedding receptions, or a private Food Adventure (stay tuned)

 

HERE’S THE SCARY:

Longtime Server Aimee who shared the ghost video with Amber Rose Owner Joe Castellano

— The Amber Rose and its story appear in the book “Haunted Ohio III”

— The daughter of the original owner of the building is said to haunt the main level and upstairs of Amber Rose.  Her name is Genevieve Ksiezopolski, and is also known as “Chickie.”

— Long time waitress Aimee has witnessed glasses flying off the shelves

— Owner Joe Castellano has seen lights and fans turned on in the upstairs office, after he had turned them off.

— One of the restaurant cooks claimed to have seen the ghostly apparition of Genevieve aka “Chickie.”  He says the spirit was in front of him, then lifted up her ruffled dress slightly, and walked out of the room.  Now comes the unexplainable part…. There are security cameras throughout the restaurant including the kitchen.  When the management heard the cook’s story, they decided to pull up the surveillance tape.  What they saw was a small, bright, white orb enter, circle and leave the room at the same exact time the cook said he saw the ghost.  Eerie.. Is it proof of a ghost, or just a coincidence?

 HERE IS THE VIDEO: YOU BE THE JUDGE  –

— Paranormal investigators visit the restaurant each year and claim that a second ghost, named Richard, inhabits the basement.

 

MUST EATS:

— DELUXE POTATO PANCAKES:  This appetizer is covered in cheddar-jack cheese, bacon and scallions.  The crispy circles are and served with sour cream, for a rich indulgence you wont soon forget.

— ELINOR’S SIGNATURE TURTLE SOUP:  An amazing must eat!  If you have never had turtle soup, don’t be afraid.  It is a cross between vegetable soup and chili.  We challenge anyone to try a cup and tell us it is not delicious.

— PIEROGI & ONIONS:  This “old country” favorite is a rarity in Dayton.  Amber Rose does it right.  Homemade pierogi dumplings with sauteed onions, served with a side of cream cheese.  If you have never had pierogies, they are dumplings filled with potato.  It makes for a rich, filling comfort food, and a favorite in Poland.

— THE TRADITIONAL REUBEN:  Stacked high with thinly sliced corn beef, the sandwich is then topped with sauerkraut.  Condiments slapped on include 1000 island dressing and swiss cheese.  The finishing touch is grilling the rye bread.  A Food Adventure on a plate, indeed.

— THE WARSAW MEDLEY: This dish features four of the restaurants specialties.  First, the CABBAGE ROLLS, which are one of the best selling items at the restaurant.  The dish also features a sausage link, HOMEMADE SAUSAGE, so it is the real deal!  Thirdly, the SAUERKRAUT.  Now listen, we are picky on our sauerkraut and The Big Ragu says this sweet recipe is the best sauerkraut he has ever eaten.  It is a Lithuanian spin on German Sauerkraut, and has less of a “sour bite.”

Like Reuben Sandwiches? Try The Amber Rose version on for size….

— THE HUNTER SCHNITZEL SANDWICH: Hand breaded with pretzels.. need we say more?  The pork loin is then golden fried, and served on  a hoagie bun with lettuce, tomato, onion and dark mustard.   Opt for the Hunter Dinner instead, served with no bread, but covered in a creamy mustard sauce.. all homemade !

— ANNUAL “OKTOBERFEST”:  During the month of October, your first draft beer is 10 cents, and the ones after are $1.50.

 Honorable Mention:  Two other favorites include the Polish Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms and the German Bier Cheese Dip served with pretzels and rye bread.

We recommend stopping by this incredible unique and lovable restaurant.  Become enchanted by the old world menu, and the savory dishes.   The food is complimented by the atmosphere of stained glass accent windows and tin ceilings for a European Cafe feel.

Get some spirits at the bar and maybe say hello to the spirit known as “Chickie.”  Remember, roses are amber, violets are blue, eat the delicious food and you may get a BOO!  Happy Halloween, Foodies !

Want more scoop and killer pictures of the Miami Valley’s best food places?  Then  follow Food Adventures with Hungry Jax, Chef House, The King and the Big Ragu on Facebook by clicking HERE.  We are not food critics, we just love to eat!   Check  back for our weekly articles on Dayton Most Metro, where we share the best local eats with our fellow Daytonians!

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Fleurs Et Vin: A Great Success at Carrillon Park

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Each Guest Received Souvenir Glasses

Did you miss it?  Endless wine tasting and all the food samplings you wanted were featured at the 2013 Fleurs et Vin Festival held at Carillon Park on May 19th.  The Big Ragu was on hand with Dayton Most Metro’s staff, greeting the massive crowds and sample the various offerings.  It was a Food Adventure paradise in the heart of Dayton, and a must eat on our list of events.

If you were not able to make it to this annual benefit for the AIDS Resource Center Ohio, then check out our recap, below.

Here’s the Skinny:

— FLEURS ET VIN is Dayton’s Premier Wine and Gourmet Food Festival, typically held each year on a Sunday in May from 1-4pm under the tents at Carrillon Historical Park.  It is an all-you-want tasting event with a loyal following.

— ALL of the food and wine was donated by locally owned restaurants, allowing 100% of the proceeds to benefit AIDS Resource Center of Dayton.  A Food Adventure with a cause

— Admission price allowed you access to over 400 wines from around the world and taste menu samples from 20 local restaurants, along with a Belgian Beer Garden area !

— Live and Silent Auction areas allowed even more funds to be raised for this worthy cause that focuses of prevention and education about AIDS, along with service programs that help those in need with HIV/AIDS.

— Live music filled the air and added to the warm ambiance.

With so many good wines and so much good food, below are our picks for the best of the best from this spectacular event!

Crab Rangoon from Thai 9.  Our Favorite Rangoon in Dayton.

OUR FAVORITES  (THE FOOD):

Thai 9’s Crab Rangoon and Chicken with Rice:  In our opinion, the best crab rangoon in the Dayton area were these incredible samples from Thai9.  Stuffed full and deep, and served with a sweet side of Thai sauce, we found ourselves returning to this line often.  The Thai chicken dish was also incredible at this station.  It was a Thai pepper chicken, served in a brown, curry house sauce over a bed of white rice.  We told them we loved it, but our mouths were so full that they couldn’t understand us.

The Dock’s Crab Cakes:  Slowly seared on their portable flat top grill, these were flavorful, hand-packed circles of love.  The sauce that topped the crab cakes was the secret ingredient that kept us coming back for more.  The staff of The Dock probably wanted to file a restraining order against us for hanging out by their grill as much as we did.  We could not resist seconds of these scrumptious bites of crab heaven.

Hawthorn Grill’s  Sorbet and Strawberry ShortCake: All of the desserts at Hawthorn Grill are homemade by Chef Candace and her staff.   Her sorbet was a perfect, refreshing break during this hot event.  The bite size piece of cake, topped with a strawberry sauce also hit the spot.

Scratch Catering’s Beef Brisket and Carmelized Onion Bruschetta:  When doesn’t Chef Matt Hayden please the hungry crowds?  This delicious, slow-cooked sampling was just as pleasing to the eye, as it was to our taste buds.  The hits from Scratch Catering just keep on coming ….

OUR FAVORITES (THE WINES):

Canella Blood Orange Mimosa:  Talk about refreshing!   This tasty, bottled mimosa was the perfect drink, on this hot day.  The server at this booth had to be tired of us by the end of the event.   Probably our favorite offering from the Vintage Wine Distributor.  This Italian wine cocktail is made from grape wine and the juice and pulp of blood oranges from Sicily.

Heron Chardonnay:  A crisp, white wine made from 22 year old grape vines.  The winery is a female owned, family vineyard run by Laely Heron.   One of the few American women who made wine in France, Heron’s products are also produced in California.

Spreitzer Riesling 101:  This German Riesling comes from a winery owned by two brothers who have been honing their craft since 1997.  It was a cold, refreshing sip of sparkling goodness in the warm weather.

The Belgian Beer Garden: Although this was a wine festival, Heidelberg Distributing distracted us with some great beer selections.  Food Adventures enjoyed a couple of  Stella Artois beers in a souvenir pint.  The Big Ragu went for some Hoegaarden beer and an Ommegang Witte Beer.

All in all, this is Dayton’s “Wine me and dine me” Festival.  We loved being a part of a wonderful event, that supported a locally based AIDS charity.  Good local food and world class wines, what more could one ask for?   So let us end this Food Adventure, by raising our glass with a toast.. “Whether you love Merlot or Chardonnay, here’s to seeing you at Fleurs et Vin, next May!!”

For more wine, and no whine, visit Food Adventures on Facebook and “like” them by clicking HERE !

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2013 Valentine’s Day Specials and Events in Dayton, Ohio

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valentines-day-rosesWhether you are keeping up romantic traditions with your long-time love, or starting flirty new traditions with the one you like, Dayton is full of delicious events. Cupid is now jealous and possibly out of work. Below, you’ll find a little something for everyone bitten by the love bug (and even a few for the staunch, anti-heart day aficionados).

Check back as we’ll likely be updating this list (or look at our searchable DMM Event Calendar), and if you want YOUR Valentine’s Day event listed then add it to our calendar and make sure you check the Valentine’s Day category…

An Affair To Remember
Dayton Art Institute
Friday Feb. 15 8-11pm
$40 (Members); $45 (Non-Members)		 Valentine’s Evening Under the Stars
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Thursday Feb. 14 6-7:30pm OR 8-9:30pm
Saturday Feb. 16 6-7:30pm OR 8-9:30pm
$25 per couple
Latin Lovers Cooking Class
El Meson
Saturday Feb. 9 11am
$45 per student		 Miami Valley Music Men Singing Valentines!
They come to you!
Orders from Wednesday Feb. 13 – Saturday Feb. 16
$40
Hotel Date Night Package
Homewood Suites Fairborn
Check website for prices and availability		 Valentine’s Celebration Dinner
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Thursday Feb. 14 6-10pm
(prices vary)
Jazz Valentine’s Day with Saxophonist Grace Kelly
Gilly’s
Thursday Feb. 14 8pm
$25		 Old Hollywood Glam Ball
America’s Packard Museum
Thursday Feb. 14 7:30-11pm
$60 per person ($75 with alcohol)
Art For The Heart
Zion Lutheran Church – Tipp City
Saturday Feb. 9 9am-4pm
Free		 Crafty Valentine
Sew Dayton
Saturday Feb. 9 3-6pm
$30 per person
Valentine’s Masquerade Ball
CADC
Saturday Feb. 9 7-10pm		 Victorian Afternoon Tea – Valentine’s Tea
Historic Patterson Homestead
Saturday Feb. 9 – Sunday Feb. 10
$18 per member; $20 per non-member
Valentine Dinner
Franco’s Ristorante Italiano
Thursday Feb. 14 4-10pm
$38 Dinner for Two		 Chocolate Affair
Serendipity Bistro
Thursday Feb. 14 7pm-1am
8th Annual Valentines Dance benefiting A Special Wish Foundation
Schuster Performing Arts Center
Friday Feb. 15 7:30-11pm
$100 per person		 The Vagina Monologues
Yellow Cab Building
Friday Feb. 15 8pm / Saturday Feb. 16 8pm / Sunday Feb. 17 7:30pm
$5
Valentine’s Brunch
Dayton Woman’s Club
Saturday Feb. 16 11:30am-2:30pm
$20 members; $22 non-members		 Valentine’s Concert
Amber Rose
Saturday Feb. 16 7pm
Valentine’s Day Celebration
The Winds Cafe and Bakery
Thursday Feb. 14 5pm through Saturday Feb. 16 5pm		 50 Shades of Sweet
Get Dressed! Boutique
Wednesday Feb. 13 and Thursday Feb. 14 12pm-6pm

Amber Rose hosts Donation Drive for Ronald McDonald House

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Long time Dayton residents know all about the Amber Rose Restaurant in the Old North Dayton neighborhood, just north of the Great Miami River. Specializing in Eastern European cuisine, which matches the immigrants who first settled in this neighborhood, the Amber Rose is a great Old World atmosphere, and delicious food. Dishes like Turtle Soup, Cabbage Rolls, Schnitzel, and more! They describe the restaurant this way:

The Amber Rose Restaurant and Catering specializes in homemade Eastern European Cusine including German, Lithuanian, Polish, Hungarian, Russian and Italian cuisines. Our bar is made of imported Turkish marble, perfect for having an appetizer and spirits with friends. Our beer and wine lists consist of exemplary, hard-to-find European beverages.  The building is located in the heart of Old North Dayton.  We also specialize in custom catering to fit any of your needs.

Just down the road from the Amber Rose is another place that Daytonians know about- Children’s Medical Center, and of course, the Ronald McDonald House, which gives parents of Children’s patients a place to stay while their kids are being treated at the hospital. What a great service these two provide local parents!

The Amber Rose has just announced that they will be sponsoring a fundraiser through December 22nd for the Dayton Ronald McDonald House Charities! This donation will be given to the families of the critically ill hospitalized children. Every customer that brings in a donated item will receive 5% off of their bill. Each additional item will constitute as an added percentage off- Up to 10%. 1 ITEM=5% OFF, 3 ITEMS=8% off *Only 1 discount per check. Not valid with any other discounts.

They are looking for items like canned vegetables, fruit and soup. Gift cards to Kroger, cereal, granola bars, and paper products, and you can find all the details on the Amber Rose website– what a great way to help a wonderful charity!

Enjoy The Schnitzel – Local Restaurants Celebrate Oktoberfest!

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The original Munich Oktoberfest originally took place during the sixteen days up to, and including, the first Sunday in October.  While the DAI may have already hosted their celebration last week, our local eateries are just gearing up for their celebration of traditional German foods. Here are a few places you can celebrate Oktoberfest:

Savona – 79 S. Main Street, Centerville   610-9835 

Hours:  Tuesday – Thursday  5 – 9pm, Friday – Saturday 5 – 10pm
Chef Keith will be featuring Potato Salad, Beer cheese soup, Beef Rouladen, Wiener schnitzel, Sauerkraut  with smoked
pork and sausages  Sept 27 – 29.


The Hawthorn Grill – 1222 East Stroop Road, Kettering  298-2222


Hours:  Tuesday-Thursday  5 – 9pm, Friday-Saturday 5 – 10pm


Enjoy their  German menu  specials from Sept 25th through Oct 6th


Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Mashed Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, 18


Caraway & Apple Cider Pork Chop, Herbed Spaetzle,, Braised Apples & Carrots, 20


Choucroute Garnie, Sauerkraut, Assorted Sausages, Potatoes, Whole Grain & Dijon Mustard, 17


Wiener Schnitzel, Herbed Spaetzle, Braised Red Cabbage, 18


Sauerbraten, German Potato Dumpling, Braised Apples, 19


Autumn Apfelstrudel, Traditional German Dried Fruit and Apple Strudel, Vanilla Custard Sauce, 6


Plum Kuchen, German Plum Cake, Streusel Topping, Vanilla Ice Cream, 6


 


Amber Rose – 1400 Valley Street, Dayton  228-2511


Hours:  Mon 11am – 2pm,  Tues – Thurs 11am -9pm, Fri 11am – 10pm, Sat 4-10pm


Their annual celebration begins Friday September 28th and runs through Saturday November 3rd.

They invite you to come in for fun, food, and of course our famous Oktoberfest 10 cent Draft Beer!


 


And the Minster Oktoberfest runs Fri, Oct 5th – Sun, Oct 7th and  emphasizes the community’s rich German heritage. The people of Minster feel that the Oktoberfest is not just an event; it’s a feeling, a spirit, a happy mood that conveys the warmth and friendliness of the community.


Dining Your Way through Oktoberfest!


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It’s not quite October, but close enough that local restaurants are rolling out the Oktoberfest menus. Here’s a round up of the local specials heralding the Bavarian culture that has been celebrating these festivities since 1810.


Amber Rose kicked off their Oktoberfest beer special which allows you to enjoy your first Beck’s Oktoberfest, Amber Bach or Goose Island Harvest  for just 10 cents all month long.  The y will also feature a different schnitzel special each week and of course brats are available for lunch all month long.


Chef Keith Taylor at Savona in Centerville has a special menu offering options like wurst salad, warm potato salad, german slaw, wiener schnitael, beef rouladen, choucroute garni and apple strudel.  Taylor offers this menu in homage to his late mentor, Chef Dieter Krug, whom he worked under at L’Auberge and often was a guest chef at Savona, where they perfected them menu items.


L’Auberge is running a special 3 course pre-fixe meal for $25 until

Oct. 8th that includes:


First Course: choice of German potato salad or Bavarian sausage salad

Second Course: Octoberfest chicken with stuffing or roasted pork schank with red red cabbage

Third Course:  warm apple strudel


Rue Dumaine is offfering an Oktoberfest celebration on Thurs, Oct 6th.  You’ll have the option of a German beer tasting featuring Erdinger Hefewiezen Oktoberfest, Sam Adamas Oktoberfest  and Ayinger Oktoberfest – Marzen for $12 or pairing German wines with this special menu created by Chef Anne:


Sauerkraut balls over German mustard crème

Obatzda –Limburger cheese-butter spread, served with handmade soft pretzels

Hot slaw with apples and bacon

German potato** salad

Tartlet of Alsatian Munster and roasted mushrooms

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Rinderrouladen served with potato puree and braised red cabbage – beef stuffed with a pickle spear, carrot stick, house made German-style ham and a smear of German mustard. It is seared then slow braised in beef stock. Served with Yukon potato puree and braised red cabbage seasoned with bacon, onion, red wine vinegar and sugar.


Grilled trout with celery sauce and Schupfnudeln (potato dumplings)


Gemischtes Würstchenteller- 2 varieties house made sausages served with kraut (with juniper, caraway, apples**, onions, bacon and beer), spaetzle and German mustard


Apple** strudel- phyllo wrapped apples with raisins, walnuts, sugar and spice

Petite Black Forest cake


** designated locally grown items






Give Tasteful Local Gifts


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This holiday season buying a restaurant gift card for someone else can mean a little something extra for you.  As gift cards become increasingly popular among consumers, restaurant  are doing what they can to make sure it is theirs you  are buying.The standard seems to be a $5 certificate for each $25 spent in gift certificates.  The “bonus” gift cards are often only good for a limited amount of time, most encouraging you to return in January, the slowest dining out month for most restaurant.  Here’s a round up of deals being offered by local eating establishments:


Amber Rose -Buy $25 – get $5


Barleycorn’s – Buy $100 – get $20


The Barnsider – Buy $30 – get $10 or Buy $75 – get $25


The Caroline– Buy $100 – get $25 free


Christopher’s – Buy $25 – get $5


Coco’s Bistro – Buy $100, get $20


Dublin Pub – Buy $50, get $10


Figlio – Buy $100, Get $25


Hawthorn Grill – Buy $50, get$ 10


Milano’s – Buy $25, get $5


Sweeney’s Seafood – Buy $100, get $20


As you know, I prefer to promote locally owned businesses, but many of you may need to know about national chains for gift giving purposes, so here’s a link that will give you a listing of  those:  click here. One of the best deals out there is by BD Mongolian Grill,  they have the standard buy $25, get $5 deal, but if you spend $50 you’ll get $10 in gift certificates and a free 2011 BD’s calendar which offers $10 in dining deals each month, a $120 value.  It’s a great deal if you like creating your own stir fry meals.


And if you know of a deal not listed, please add it to the comments below!  Thanks and happy dining!