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Kettering City BBQ Opens Dec 1st!

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City BBQ is smoking in Kettering this week. For some of us BBQ fans the wait is over. Today I stopped by to see the place and grab some lunch a few days ahead of the official opening.
The building is great, a reimagined space that was formerly both Rapid Fire Pizza and built originally as a Krispy Kreme store and production facility.
This City BBQ location boasts a drive thru that many other locations in the region do not have.
Today we had the brisket sandwich and sampled three of their best sides, collards, corn pudding and the slaw. The surprise guest was the Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich that was topped with slaw, spicy mayo and pickles. Two sandwiches, three sides (big enough to share) and an iced tea came in under $30.00.
Their full menu, including the pulled pork, smoked chicken, sausage, and ribs will be available Thursday the 1st when they fully open to the public.

City Barbeque Kettering

2001 E. Dorothy Lane
Kettering, OH 45420

937-200-1006

BBQ Judge Bryan Suddith on BBQ

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I’ve written a lot about BBQ.

So today I write about it again. Today is National BBQ Day and my friends at the Kansas City Barbecue Society have been reminding me that May is National BBQ Month. I do love BBQ. I was just in South Carolina in March for bbq, judged a competition in Atlanta in April, judged a competition in Indianapolis later in April, and was in Austin last weekend eating bbq for fun.

In June I am judging contests in Ohio, cooking in a contest in Kentucky and judging another contest in Indiana. I spend a lot of time traveling to eat, cook and judge great bbq.

It doesn’t take a lot of of anything to make great barbecue. Just meat, fire, and time.  Three little things that when done right produces a great product. The best bite of barbecue I have ever had didn’t require electricity. Just a guy and a fire and long long hours tending to both.

Ribs. Brisket. Sausage and a beef rib from Austin’s La Barbecue.

Here are four things I have learned over the last 8 years traveling, eating, judging and studying American Barbecue.

First: The debate of Kansas City vs. Texas. Which is better? They are both crazy good. It’s a style difference. It’s like comparing deep dish pizza with a slice of thin New York City pizza. Both good. Not the same. All the major BBQ regions offer something unique about their region. BBQ is personal like that. It’s built on tradition and proteins that are local. Texas = Beef. Lots of it. Carolinas = Pork lots of it. My tip, don’t go to Greeneville South Carolina or Memphis looking for Brisket.

Aaron Franklin of Franklin BBQ with Bryan in Austin, TX

Second: Behind every good plate of barbecue is a family and that family has a story and barbecue is how they share that story. In South Carolina I ate at Mike and Jeff’s BBQ. Mike’s mom was the server, Mike’s sister was at the register and Mike was tending the coals at the smoker out front. Louie Mueller’s in Taylor Texas is operated by Wayne Mueller, grandson of Louie. His sister operates one of the hippest BBQ shops in Austin, La Barbecue.

SLAPS BBQ in Kansas City is run by brothers Joe and Mike and their mom is often in the store working the line. Payne’s in Memphis is still run by Flora Payne with her son and daughter at her side. She is still chopping pork at the lunch rush.

Third: BBQ is communal. It’s meant to be shared and eaten as a group. That’s my favorite. Order it all and share it family style. It’s a slow meal. It takes hours to prepare and there is no need to hurry to eat it.

Fourth: BBQ has a real legal definition. The United States Code of Federal Regulations defines BBQ, such as product labeled “Beef Barbecue” or “Barbecued Pork,” shall be cooked by the direct action of dry heat resulting from the burning of hard wood or the hot coals therefrom for a sufficient period to assume the usual characteristics of a barbecued article, which include the formation of a brown crust on the surface and the rendering of surface fat. The product may be basted with a sauce during the cooking process. The weight of barbecued meat shall not exceed 70 percent of the weight of the fresh uncooked meat.

So technically, if there isn’t a wood fire resulting in smoke or hot coals, it isn’t barbecue.

Here are the questions I am asked the most when people learn I have traveled a bit for some great barbecue:

Bryan, what’s your favorite in Texas, Memphis or Kansas City?

Texas: Must visits, Louie Mueller in Taylor Texas, Smitty’s in Lockhart, both Valentina’s and Interstellar in Austin. Snows in Lexington is worth it as well. (I plan to spend time in Houston soon).

Bryan (far right) with friends and Interstellar BBQ pitmaster Warren McDonald (back row) outside of Interstellar BBQ. Texas Monthly’s #2 ranked Texas BBQ joint in Austin.

Kansas City: My favorite is SLAPs and Q39. Please visit Kansas City Joes and Arthur Bryant’s for the experience.

Memphis: Payne’s is a must as is the Bar B Que Shop (try the spaghetti).

Bryan, what’s your favorite BBQ in Dayton?

I love what Curtis  is doing at Fatbacks BBQ and his brisket is full of flavor and is my favorite in town.

Flyby BBQ

It is hard to beat the ribs at Flyby BBQ at the Fairfield mall.

I have been so impressed by what Warped Wing Springboro is creating out of their Ole Hickory smoker and the pulled pork nachos and pork belly sliders are better than Dayton deserves.

With that said, I have had great BBQ at Oinka Doodle Moo, City Barbecue (same smoker as Warped Wing), Hickory River in Tipp City, Adam’s Rib in Eaton, Combs in Middletown, Just Q In in Cincy, Pickles and Bones in Milford, and many many more. Those three up top are just my favorites here in Dayton.

So go. Celebrate National BBQ day and find some barbecue. Find a spot you like and support your local Pitmaster.

Nelly’s Introducing Sauces at March Food Adventure + Free Ticket Giveaway

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Nellys to Introduce new sauces with its famous chicken

The Bolivian restaurant Nelly’s Chicken on S. Main Street or State Route 48 will hosting its first ever Food Adventure Dinner.

TUESDAY MARCH 12 will be a very special night with one night only, exotic, 5 course meal.  The kitchen and owners will be introducing some Bolivian BBQ sauces to be enjoyed with their famous chicken.  If you have not had their juicy, mouth-watering chicken with the one of a kind, cooked over charcoal taste, you are missing a treat with this signature dish.  They will also feature a Bolivian sausage and beef based entrée.  The final course will be dessert as we enjoy door prizes and trivia with the crowd.  This is a one night only event and the first time the sauces will be available.  We are excited to try these new items !!!

**TICKETS ONLY AVAILABLE ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE**

FREE TICKET GIVEAWAY !
Comment with why you want a free ticket below, and we will draw one random winner Friday 22nd at 6pm.

What a special chance to get this deal for dinner and enjoy a Food Adventure where you can “Fade into Bolivia”

Rotisserie Chicken cooked over charcoal

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON THE FOOD ADVENTURE DINNER at NELLY’S CHICKEN:

WHEN:  MARCH 12, 6:30pm – ONE NIGHT ONLY

WHERE : 79 S Main St, Centerville, OH 45458

WHAT:  5 COURSE “TOUR OF BOLIVIA” DINNER EVENT

COURSE 1:
CHORIPAN BITES: Smoked sausage topped with fresh chimichurri salsa, served on top of a toasted bread.

COURSE 2:

Nelly’s Beet Salad


NELLY’S TOSSED SALAD: green with organic spring mix, cranberries, topped with a mozzarella-provolone cheese blend and sweet pickled beets.

COURSE 3:
PIQUE MACHO: a heaping plate of bite-sized pieces of beef, sausage, green pepper, onion, steak potatoes and hard-boiled egg.

COURSE 4:
A PIECE OF OUR FAMOUS ROTISSERIE CHICKEN, COOKED OVER CHARCOAL: Served with a sauce to mix and enhance the flavors of this typical Bolivian dish.  Bolivian BBQ Sauce and White Sauce available for tasting.

2007-12-31 Flan casero de huevo – Cena nochevieja – Pozuelo de Alarcón – Madrid – España

COURSE 5:
HOMEMADE FLAN: freshly baked egg custard with caramel sauce. A South American staple.

COST: $32 per person, Includes water and 5 courses (does not include tip).  Drinks like soda and alcohol may be bought separately as they have a full bar, and craft beers. PRE PAY ONLY

****TICKETS: Are only available online by CLICKING HERE for info**** Sales end March 10th at midnight

Alcohol and Tip not included

5 delicious courses,………. 1 night only……. many, one-of a kind, unique tastes. We are looking forward to trying the chef’s new sauces that pair with the chicken.

Food Adventures will provide some trivia and door prizes. Nelly’s Chicken will be giving away a gift card to a random attendee.  Join us March 12th, meet the owners of Nelly’s, their story, and philosophy about the restaurant.   Hear about their goals for the future.

Are you ready for a Food Adventure to Bolivia ??

For more info on Food Adventures, join the nearly 8,000 Dayton Foodies following them on Facebook by CLICKING HERE

** DONT FORGET TO COMMENT BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN ONE FREE TICKET TO THIS EVENT ! ** (Drawing is at random, Feb 22nd at 5pm).

Inside Nellys Chicken

Pieces of Rotisserie Chicken cooked over Charcoal

Nellys

Bolivian Style Chicken – new sauces coming !!

 

Juicy Chicken

salad

inside Nellys

chicken

 

 

Turning Point for Ace Asian Cafe ?

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Teriyaki Salmon in a Bento Box

When familiar faces struck a deal with The Greene to again take over the closed Choe’s Bistro, it was a case of old owners, cleaning up a new owners mess.  Michelle and Charles Yang managed “Choe’s Asian Bistro” from December 2014 through March 2017.  After turning it over to new management, back rent and tax questions forced The Greene to close the restaurant.  The Yangs came back to the rescue re-opening the eatery in April 2018.  Today, after 7 months, new management has fine tuned their dishes. They will be adding a new chef and new menu additions are around the corner.     The Food Adventures Crew has exclusive scoop on what could be the turning point for Ace Asian Cafe.

Outside of Ace Asian Cafe

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON ACE ASIAN CAFE at THE GREENE:

— Located at 4394 Juniper Way at The Greene outdoor mall in Beavercreek, Ace Asian Bistro has a menu that encompasses many countries, including THAILAND, CHINA, KOREA, and JAPAN.

— The restaurant is open
Monday – Thursday: 11:30am -10pm,
Friday: 11:30am – 11pm
Saturday: Noon – 11pm
Sunday: Noon – 9pm

Option for a Korean BBQ Table with built in grill

— Ace Asian Cafe is currently developing some new specials for kids and seniors, as well as special discount days for Air Force members.  Could we see a weekly special of endless sushi?  Plans are also in the works for a special Food Adventure Tour of Asia !  Stay tuned to Dayton Most Metro for info on the December event.

— Then menu highlights are a full-blown list of sushi offerings, an option to sit at a table with a Korean BBQ built in, Pad Thai and Chinese Dishes.  Want some Sake?  They’ve got you covered there with a full selection and a cocktail rich bar.

— Besides a full dining room, sushi bar and cocktail bar, Ace Asian Cafe has a 50 person upstairs seating area for private events. It also has a Korean BBQ seating option for about 24 seats in the dining room.  The ambiance is elegant and makes it feel like you are at a special occasion.

— Menu prices are typically $12.95- $14.95 for entrees.  Lunch Bento Boxes are a great way to try a variety of foods and run about $10.95.  Sushi Rolls run from 8 bucks to about $13.50.

We have had good service on our visits here.  The wait staff was attentive and friendly.

Time to explore the menu which takes on an entire continent.

Our patented “must eats”…

 

MUST EATS at ACE ASIAN CAFE:

Calamari and Sweet Chili Sauce

—CRAB RANGOON:
The old standard and everyone’s favorite, seems to be the most popular menu item here. Nice and creamy and a sauce like you have never tasted before for dipping. It is a smoky sweet n sour sauce.

 

— BENTO BOX WITH TERIYAKI SALMON:
One of the best ways to sample the menu is through a Bento Box. And at the lunch price of $10.95 it is economical.  You pick 2 entree dishes and it is served with a spring roll, rice, orange slices and a salad.  Your entree choices include pad Thai, sushi rolls, Korean Bulgogi, Curry dishes and Chinese entrees.

 

— CALAMARI IN SPICY CHILI SAUCE:
Deep fried calamari rings with a fantastic dipping sauce. The sweet sauce and spice, is the perfect contrast to the light crunch. The calamari does not have a fishy taste at all.

Hot n Sour Soup

 

— HOT N SOUR SOUP:
Their version is definitely worth ordering. All of their soups are good, but this one is the best. Mouth watering with a touch of heat.

 

— YELLOWTAIL NIGIRI
Then simple thought of a fresh piece of raw fish and rice. If raw is your thing, try the Yellowtail. Dip in wasabi and soy sauce to complete the tasty deal.

 

— THE WASHINGTON SUSHI ROLL:
Our favorite sushi roll is this one. It features cooked Shrimp Tempura, Cucumber, and cooked Crab topped with Salmon, Avocado, Tobago, Wasabi Dressing, Sweet Sauce & Goma Dressing. The result is a sweet and crunchy taste. If you like shrimp, crab and salmon, you must try this roll.

 

— GENERAL TSO’S CHICKEN:
They have a nice take on an old favorite. Medium sized chunks of deep-fried shrimp, tossed in a light brown sauce with stir fired vegetable surrounding the plate. A good, old-fashioned staple of Chinese cuisine done right.

 

— CHICKEN BULGOGI on the KOREAN BBQ TABLE:

General Tso’s Chicken

You or the server get to cook this shredded marinated chicken on the table side grill. It is a fun experience and the aroma as the chicken cooks is amazing. A few minutes and sizzles later, and you have a piping hot chicken grilled dish in front of you. Served with rice, the grilled onion and spices are a perfect blend.

 

Honorable Mention:

Katsu Chicken Bento Box – A nice white meat piece, sliced and panko fried, drizzled with Asian sauces.

Blue Crab Stuffed Salmon – Baked Salmon with blue crab, stir fired vegetables and Asian spices.

 

***EXCLUSIVE SCOOP ON NEW MENU ITEMS COMING TO ACE ASIAN CAFE !!***

This Spring some new menu items will be in play .  Only Food Adventures and Dayton Most Metro has the scoop.

Sorry about the quality, we had to do mission impossible and Indiana Jones type stuff to get you these papers….

They are adding salads, udon and soba soups, and even a katsu curry dish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make sure you visit Ace Asian Cafe at the Greene.  The atmosphere is perfect for a special occasion meal or meeting.  Any celebration would be a success at this restaurant.

For more Food Adventures , look for us each and every week here at Dayton Most Metro !

Cant get enough?  Then join the nearly 8,000 foodies following us on FACEBOOK by clicking here!

Feel free to browse the gallery below as only we can produce – tons of great food photos  week in and week out…

 

Spicy Pad Thai Shrimp

Sashimi

Window decor

Spicy Pork Bulgogi

Spicy Tuna Roll

Pad Thai Chicken

Sardines

The sushi menu is extensive – a salmon covered crab and avocado roll

Caterpillar Roll

Salmon Avocado Roll

Blind Date Roll

Blind Date Roll

Avocado Roll

Fresh Sushi Rolls

Avocado on top

Spicy Scallop Roll

Tofu Stir Fry

Tofu and veggie stir fry

Fish Cakes

Korean BBQ Chicken !

Pad Thai

Cooking yourself

Korean BBQ Beef

Full bar and happy hour

Fresh Sushi

Egg Drop Soup

Edamame

Buckeye Roll

Sushi Plate

Sushi Platter

Blind Date Roll and an Albacore Roll

Blue Crab Salmon

Cooking on the Korean BBQ

YellowTail Nigiri

Squid salad

Sushi Plate

Bento box chicken

Buckeye Roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make $10K to travel the country and eat BBQ

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Calling all pit masters, grilling fanatics, and barbeque fans… Reynolds Wrap just cooked up your dream job! The durable, pit master-approved foil known for locking in delicious grilled flavors is looking for its first-ever Chief Grilling Officer. Reynolds Wrap is on a mission to identify the best grilling techniques and tips to share with its fans, and they want you to lead the way.

 

This two week, paid gig offers unforgettable experiences in America’s most mouth-watering cities. In case that’s not clear enough: Eat food. Document the experience. Get paid! The Chief Grilling Officer, or “CGO’s” responsibilities are simple (and delicious); travel to some of the most notorious barbeque cities in the

 

country to learn about grilling culture and new techniques for the Reynolds Wrap test kitchen.

Along the way, you’ll share tips, techniques and pictures of your travels on the Reynolds Kitchens website and social channels, so that grilling enthusiasts at home can make drool-worthy meals on their own.

Need more incentive to get your mouth watering? The Reynolds Wrap CGO will receive a $10K stipend, pre-paid travel and lodging for you and (a very lucky) guest and amazing hookups at some of the most delicious restaurants from coast to coast. The photography and cooking techniques captured by the CGO will be featured on ReynoldsKitchens.com and Reynolds-owned social channels.

“We’re on a mission here at Reynolds Wrap to identify the best grilling techniques and tips to share with backyard grillers,” said Brienne Neisewander, brand director for Foil at Reynolds Consumer Products. “We’re looking for a truly passionate grilling enthusiast to lead the way across the country and discover hidden grilling gems.”

Now through August 13, applicants looking to land this food-filled summer gig can submit their best original grilling photo along with 100 words on why they’re the best person for the job to ReynoldsCGO@gmail.com. Applicants must be 21 years of age or older and a resident of the United States.

For more details and to apply, visit ReynoldsKitchens.com/Chief–Grilling–Officer

So, if you don’t mind being paid to taste test some of the most delicious grilled dishes from across the country, posting envy-inducing pictures of your finds and falling asleep every night dreaming about your next meal, then you could have what it takes to be Reynolds Wrap’s Chief Grilling Officer.

 

 

Quest For The Best BBQ

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BBQ is personal. BBQ is communal. BBQ at its core is primal. Meat slowed cooked over smoke. Simple. But not easy to do correctly.

 

BBQ is the only food that has a definition codified in Federal Law. Title 9 of The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) defines it this way in Chapter III, Subchapter A, Part 319, Subpart C, Section 319.80

 

“Barbecued meats, such as product labeled “Beef Barbecue” or “Barbecued Pork,” shall be cooked by the direct action of dry heat resulting from the burning of hard wood or the hot coals therefrom for a sufficient period to assume the usual characteristics of a barbecued article, which include the formation of a brown crust on the surface and the rendering of surface fat. The product may be basted with a sauce during the cooking process. The weight of barbecued meat shall not exceed 70 percent of the weight of the fresh uncooked meat.”

 

I love BBQ and have traveled thousands of miles eating the best of Memphis, Alabama, St. Louis and Kansas City. I have learned a few things about BBQ. It is intensely personal. Whenever a chef or pitmaster spends 8, 10 or even 15 hours preparing a cut of pork or beef, you are eating the real fruit of labor. The rub, the mop, the sauce, all come from family recipes tested and tasted and tweaked over time.

 

BBQ is best enjoyed with family. Splitting plates. Telling stories. Savoring time around the table. Slow. Just like the preparation.
I’ve done some research and found that you don’t have to drive far for authentic BBQ. We have some great ‘cue right here in Dayton Ohio. Let me tell you about them. These are my favorites and if you like slow cooked smoky meat, they will be yours too. There are another 1/2 dozen places to get bbq in Dayton (that doesn’t count some remarkable food trucks). These folks are smoking ribs, brisket, pork, chicken and sausage over a real fire with real smoke. That’s the standard.

 

Hickory River BBQ (Regional Chain 6 locations Illinois and Ohio)
135 S Garber Dr, Tipp City, OH 45371
Hickory River in Tipp is worth the drive. Its a big family place and reminded me of the bigger Kansas City joints I have visited in recent years. By far the friendliest of my visits. My son and I split 4 ribs, brisket, a pulled pork sandwich and a 1/4 pound of the smoked sausage with two sides and drinks for under $30 dollars. My favorites here were the ribs and sausage. The pulled pork had a good amount of bark full of smokey flavor. My son says the mac and cheese was as good as he ever had. The slaw was fresh and made in-house.
Did I mention the prices and friendliness? I can’t wait to get back there. Tuesday’s are buck a bone rib nights.
Gotta Try: Smoked Sausage

 

1101 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45402
Texas Brisket and Texas attitude. By far the best brisket I have had in Ohio. Peppery, slow cooked, sliced right. Smoke ring and it had a good pull to it. Tender, but not pot roast falling apart. The sauce is kept behind the counter, ask for samples of both offerings. The sausage was great and the pulled pork sandwich was full of smoke and tender. Careful ordering the menu here. It get’s pricey fast. Pulled pork, sausage and a portion of brisket with two sides set me back almost $40 bucks. Ribs are sold by the slab and 1/2 slab only so we didn’t get to try them. Wings need to be ordered ahead by 20-30 minutes. Drink offerings are limited but beer is an option.
Gotta Try: Brisket

 

1334 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
Fatbacks is my go-to. It’s set up like the smaller joints in Memphis, which I love. His brisket is always tender and the best pulled pork is found here. His ribs have a sweet finish which I prefer. He also has a thing he calls a pig pop. It is the lower shank smoked slow and covered in a sweet sauce that almost candies on the rendered skin. Get one. No. Get two. Sides here are always great, from greens to slaw to beans.
PS. This guy is building smokers like the pros use when he isn’t feeding lunch to locals on Linden Ave.
Gotta Try: Pig Pop

 

OinkADoodleMoo (4 locations and WPAFB)
912 E Dorothy Ln, Dayton, OH 45419
I’d put Oink’s ribs against anyone in Dayton. I wish I could figure out the rub he uses there. The founders of Oink studied BBQ in Kansas City brought their newfangled smoking technology back home to Dayton and we benefit from that. Their ribs are never overcooked and always have a great smoke. I find their brisket to be a bit overdone and falling apart. Still tasty on a bun though! Wings. Get the wings. Smoked tender and soft and full of flavor. Not like your normal bar wings. The corn pudding should be a mandatory side. Brisket, wings, pulled pork and a few ribs and sides under $30 again. Perfect for a date or father/kid outing. Oink is also making burnt ends. A Kansas City invention.
Gotta Try: Ribs and get a side of the smoke potatoes

 

 

Combs BBQ Central
2223 Central Ave, Middletown, OH 45044
I really can’t say enough about this place. It’s out of range for lunch during the week but it quickly becoming my favorite on Saturday’s.
This laid-back spot is part of Downtown Middletown’s rebirth. These ribs are legit, always cooked perfect and the pulled pork has texture, great flavor and that spicy bark you want in every bite. Brisket doesn’t happen every day. Recently I was there when they had smoked an entire pot roast. Delicious on a bun with a touch of sauce. Prices are good and the service is tops and fast.
Gotta Try: Pulled Pork and Ribs
1001 S Main St, Englewood, OH 45322
Brisket. Check. Ribs. Check. Pulled pork. Check. The best wings in Dayton? Yes. You’ve got my word on it. They smoke wings in a marinade (a wet smoke) then cool them and deep fry them when you order. If you’ve never had them, get up there today. Crunchy outside with a soft smoky interior the wing is in a class all its own. The team of Company 7 is pushing the envelope with lunch specials and a drive-thru. That’s right. A bbq sandwich from a drive-thru. I’ve not timed it from Kettering, but I am considering it.
Bonus at Company 7…beer. More than 20 craft beers in cans and bottles and always a few Company 7 Brews on tap.
Gotta Try: Smoked Wings
I’m always looking for a new spot for great BBQ!  Tell us where yourgo-too place is for great ribs, brisket, pulled pork or barbecued chicken.
Speaking of BBQ- MostMetro.com and Bryan Suddith, a certified Kansas City Barbeque Society Judge are teaming up for a Dayton BBQ Tour! 
Join us this coming Saturday, Aug 4th at 1pm as we board the 937 Party Bus and we’ll visit OinkADoodle Moo, Fat Backs and Texas Beef and Cattle Company for this mobile meat feast.  We’ll make sure you get plenty to eat and  in between spots we’ll share a few brews on the bus and talk BBQ.  This tour  will be limited to just 12 people. $60 covers the bus transportation, beers and BBQ. Get your ticket here.

Mikesell’s Ends 2016 with Two New Flavors !

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Grab a handful of Mikesells new flavors !!

Grab a handful of Mikesells new flavors !!

Your hometown potato chip company has done it again.   Oh, how we love Mikesell’s Snacks for any occasion.  And now, they bring us a couple of new, terrific products that quite honestly are surprisingly good.

The Food Adventures Crew have been enjoying Mikesell’s brand snacks for as long as we can remember, especially Chef House and The Big Ragu.  Even our New York girl, Hungry Jax and her family have been crunching away on her decade in Dayton on those groovy chips.  We have been on tours of the plant. We have been lucky enough to be behind the scenes, at test taste meetings, and met the workers that make the magic possible.

New Nacho Cheese tortilla Chips from Mikesells are sturdier than the rest

New Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips from Mikesells are sturdier than the rest

As we end 2016, Luke Mapp, VP of Marketing and his staff have come up with two winners.  Seriously.. you gotta try these.  The new flavors are “NACHO CHEESE TORTILLA CHIPS” AND “TANGY CHIPOTLE BBQ KETTLE COOKED POTATO CHIPS.”  They are 2 more reasons to reach for your local brand, when in the potato chip aisle.

We give you Food Adventures take on these new “hot off the presses” flavors….

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON MIKESELL’S TWO NEW “MUST EAT” FLAVORS:

— NACHO CHEESE FLAVORED TORTILLA CHIPS:  Ok, so this is Mikesell’s jab at the Nacho Cheese Dorito brand.  The flavor is very close to Nacho Cheese Doritos, except a tad milder.  It is a nice, easy snack.  Nice, lightly flavored and definitely cheesey.  One of the big improvements over other Nacho Cheese flavored tortilla products, is this chip is more sturdy.  It holds up way better in french onion dip, queso and salsa than other brands.  So, now you know, it is a strong hometown tortilla chip.  You won’t have to go hunting

Inside the Mikesell's Potato Chip Plant

Inside the Mikesell’s Potato Chip Plant

for half of your chip in the dip on this one.  If you love Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips and love dipping,  this is the chip for you, hands down.

 

— TANGY CHIPOTLE BBQ KETTLE COOKED POTATO CHIPS:  Wow, what a great flavor!  You get the patented Mikesell’s Kettle cooked crunch, and the sturdiness of a dipping chip that wont break either (we just talked about this didn’t we?).  Maybe we are tortilla happy today, but this flavoring is faintly reminiscent of the old Taco Flavor of Doritos from the 70’s/80’s.  It has that spin for sure.  We are sure you are going to love this new flavor.  In a world where people are trying to put biscuit and gravy flavor into chips, this is a refreshing innovation that actually works.  It fits.  The Tangy Chipotle BBQ flavor is great, and not a novelty.

Kettle Cooked Tangy Chipotle BBQ !

Kettle Cooked Tangy Chipotle BBQ !

 

*** HONORABLE MENTION:  Back in March, Mikesell’s released another amazing treat that quickly became one of our faves.  Salted Caramel Puffcorn Delites has been out for less than a year, and they are incredibly delicious and addicting.  If you have not tried these yet, you won’t believe how good they taste.

 

Well, now you have some ideas to fill the holiday snack bowls with this season.  Do yourself and Dayton a favor. Reach for the local, good stuff.  Continue to make Mikesell’s brand a part of your family parties.  The whole “buy local” thing is never more true than here.  Check out these two new products for yourself and continue to support your hometown chip company Mikesell’s, who has been supporting Dayton and local causes for over 100 years.

We bet you like the new flavors so much, you will ask Santa to bring you some….

Chef and Jax with Luke Mapp of Mikesells !

Chef and Jax with Luke Mapp of Mikesells !

WHERE TO GET THE NEW FLAVORS:
— Speedway Convenience Stores
— Kroger Grocers soon
— Local Gas Stations
— Cassano’s, Marion’s, Submarine House

 

Have you tried the new flavors?  Please comment below and give us your thoughts…

Are you a foodie with a fondness for local eateries?  Then follow our blog called “Food Adventures” on Facebook for everything food related in Dayton.  No rules, just food!  We are not food critics.  We are 3 people who are passionate about what the Miami Valley has to offer and we eat it up!

Even young chip lovers agree

Even young chip lovers agree

Spuds !

Spuds !

Have you tried the Salted Caramel Puffcorn? new in 2016 too !

Have you tried the Salted Caramel Puffcorn? new in 2016 too !

These new NACHO CHEESE TORTILLAS are great !

These new NACHO CHEESE TORTILLAS are great !

Packaging area in Mikesells Plant

Packaging area in Mikesells Plant

Tangy Chipotle BBQ is the new flavor you'll love

Tangy Chipotle BBQ is the new flavor you’ll love

Nice package

Nice package

Chips fresh out of the oil

Chips fresh out of the oil

Boxes and Cases of chips

Boxes and Cases of chips

Food Adventures Crew at Mikesells !

Food Adventures Crew at Mikesells !

On the expressway to your mouth

On the expressway to your mouth

 

Ohio’s Biggest Fair Ends Saturday in Darke County

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Huge Pieces of Fried Dough or as we call it “Pizza Frite”

The Great Darke County Fair ends a week long array of festivities this Saturday, so there is still time to get your fair groove up near the Greenville / Arcanum area.  It is about a 40 minute trip to the Darke County fairgrounds, but oh is it worth the drive.

Rides and and more rides, food and more food, and of course livestock to make your experience farm filled fun.

We have literally been having Food Adventures at this fair since the early 1970’s.  The Big Ragu has memories of his grandfather John Miller, who was born in Arcanum, taking the whole family from Centerville to Greenville.  So you could say we have 40+ years of expertise on this subject.

Cheese Curds from a Wisconsin Vendor

First of all, a NON-FOOD TIP

  1. Hit the Horse Races Friday night 5:30pm – 9pm.  The environment is a throwback like you wont experience at other racetracks.
  2. Hit the Demolition Derby on Saturday 6:30pm.  It’s like a Wal-Mart parking lot out there and maybe someone will give somebody the “Malachi Crunch” like in Happy Days.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Address of the Great Darke County Fair is 800 Sweitzer St, Greenville, OH 45331

So many food vendors, so little room in our stomachs

— OPEN 7pm – MIDNIGHT both Friday and Saturday – enough time to get your grit on… but the FAIR ENDS SATURDAY!

— Admission is $7.00,  people watching is free

 

So here we go with our often imitated never duplicated trademark…  “Must Eats.”

Here is the result of decades of studies…..

MUST EATS at THE GREAT DARKE COUNTY FAIR:

— THE FOOTLONG HOT DOG & ROOT BEER from the THE DOG N SUDS TRAILER:  The pride of Champagne, Illinois, you NEVER get to eat this stuff.  You may see their root beer plastic

Lots of rides

bottles in stores, but “aint nothing like the real thing baby.”

— THE CHEESE CURDS from MIKE’S CHEESE SHACK:  These cheeseheads are from Eau Claire, Wisconsin and every year they kill it at the fair.  And every year we load up and chow down.

— THE “LOADED RIBBON FRIES” or “TORNADO POTATOES”:  Ribbon cut potato chips, deep fried and topped with cheese, chives and bacon.  We love this stuff.  Eat them and devour them one string at a time.  People will stare as you lower the pinwheels of potatoes into your mouth.  That’s just jealousy.

Pulled Pork from Hog Wild

— THE TROLLEY BURGER WITH CANDIED BACON from KC CONCESSION’S TROLLEY CART: We eat it all, we know our stuff.  This burger is perfect for a browsing Food Adventure.  It is not too big and the candied bacon is definitely a nice attraction.  Chew on friends….

— DEEP FRIED ALLIGATOR MEAT ON A STICK from CRACKERBILLIES: Exotic, yet familiar, these nuggets on a stick had a great taste.  All the way from Cape Coral, Florida to your mouth!  We went back for seconds.

— BEEF BRISKET from GRUMPY’S BBQ: Cooked low and slow by Grumpy himself, this old farmer not only has a badass disposition but his brisket is just a s bad.  Actually , Grumpy is a pretty nice guy, we got him to smile  … once….

Ohio’s Largest County Fair

— THE HOT BROWN from FARMER BROWN’S FOOD STAND:  The restaurant that is a legend in Arcanum, is a hot spot at the fair with their food stand.  Farmer Brown’s serves up not a Hot Carl.. but the Hot Brown – which is a shaved top round sandwich, with provolone, lettuce, special sauce and mushrooms.  If that isnt enough they slap it on a grilled buttered bun.  You might call it a Hot Brown, we love to refer to it as an “Arcanum Cheesesteak.”

— PULLED PORK SANDWICH from HOG WILD SMOKE HOUSE:  Homemade sauce in huge squirt jars meant we loaded it up for a finger lickin, lip smackin helluva good ‘sammich’ (when its so good you can’t talk).  We went hog wild for sure.  These

— DEEP FRIED PECAN PIE from the PIE ON THE FLY:  This is frickin’ sinful.  The pies are “Wicks Pies” from Winchester, Indiana.  It makes the deep

Deep Fried Pecan Pie

fried snickers look like child’s play.  This is a piece of frickin pie deep fried in batter.  The pecan pie is the one to get, and it is AMAZING.  We actually had to sit down afterwards to take in the whole experience.  INSANE yet so logical….

— FRIED DOUGH from FISKE CONCESSIONS:  One of the deep fried candy bar booths has a treat we have enjoyed as kids.  It is called “pizza frite” or fried dough.  But this is the biggest slab of dough we have ever seen.  Our moms and grandmas never made it that large.  It is fried dough, with powdered sugar and it is the tick tick tick .. bomb!  This vendor is from Brookville, Florida.

Ribbon Fries or Potato Tornados

Honorable Mention:  The Deep Fried Mushrooms from Chuck’s Foods and the Deep Fried Twinkies from Fiske Concessions.

 

TWO MORE FOOD ADVENTURE TIPS:
— Use this chance to hit MAID-RITE HAMBURGERS down the street, on the way home… a loose meat sandwich that has a secret recipe that will keep you guessing and eating.  We will grab a sack and love the snack.
— Stop at KENNEDY VINEYARDS on the way home in New Madison.  Wine off the vine and we love the sweet, to the blush to the dry.  15 Minutes from the fair, you will fall in love with this place.

Alligator Meat on a Stick

Open til 10pm this Saturday, and we will see you there!

 

That’s it – the FULL BLOWN story on the biggest county fair in Ohio….  See you next week with another foodie filled story!

Check out Food Adventures on Facebook and see the difference.  This is not our job, it is our passion…..

 

Suds n Dogs !

Farmer Browns portable patio

The Farmer Brown “Hot Brown” sandwich or what we like to call the “Arcanum Cheesesteak”

Deep fried friggin pies

Grillin and we walkin

Lawwwd look at dem Baby Backs !

Sweating more than Ludlow Falls

Yo we got a tip in the third race for youse

Crackerbillies

Grilled Turkey Legs

Oreo Sundae Funnel Cake

Trolley Burger with Candied Bacon

More Darke Meat

The infamous bottle game

Cheese Curds from Wisconsin

kids whippin pigs butts

Fried and more fried

Favorite Treat as a kid

Dusk and Darke

Hog Wild Squirt a sauce

This cheese head

The Grumpy owner of Grumpys BBQ

Light up the sky

Best fried mushrooms in town

Son of a brisket

Deep fried twinkie

Coils of sausage

Big Ragu versus a footlong dog

Love the alligator chunks on a stick

Brisket from Grumpys BBQ

Pulled Pork from Hog Wild Smokehouse

Stringing them up

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here Comes Big Brews and Blues!

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Drink up and help Dayton Diabetes

Big Brews and Blues for Diabetes, is back!  2016 marks the  7th annual fundraiser, and it is going to be bigger and better than ever.  The event features incredible blues music, and dozens of beers to taste.    Dayton Most Metro will host one of the booths and will be pouring beers into the night…  Food Adventures is proud to again be participating in the event.

Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax love this event because 100% of the proceeds go to Dayton Diabetes.  This is the blues and beer festival you want to support, because of where the money goes and because it is for a great cause.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

—WHEN: Big Brews and Blues is Saturday May 21st from 5-9 PM with a VIP hour from 4-5pm

 

—WHERE: Five Rivers MetroPark’s RiverScape Pavillion

Funky Blues, with a Horn Section

— WHY: To raise money for Dayton Diabetes while having a great time.

— COST: $35 presale

      $40 at the door for regular admission

      $50 for VIP admission, which gets you in one hour earlier, plus some additional tasting tickets.

Tickets are available on-line at www.bigbrewsandblues.com

 

THE BLUES:

4p-6pm  Jimmy D. Rogers

6:15p-7:15p  Micah Kesselring

7:45p-9p  Shake n’ The New Senders

And emceed by Earl “Southside’ Hayes

 

 

THE BREWS:

— ALL BEERS ARE DRAUGHT BEERS

— ALL BEERS ARE AMERICAN CRAFT BEERS

— ALL OF THE LOCAL BREWERIES WILL BE REPRESENTED !

Rain or Shine – we will be pouring !

— There will be multiple CASK BEERS and LIMITED RELEASE BEERS

 

MUST EATS:

— BOSTON’S BISTRO and PUB: We have never had anything here we didnt like…

— BOURBON STREET GRILL: Get the Bourbon Chicken

— HEART’S HOT DOGS:  The Chicago Style Hot Dog and The Steak Burger

— PITA POCKETS:  Get the Gyro !

— THE ORIGINAL PIZZA FACTORY:   Whether you get the Pepperoni or the Deluxe, you will have a nice thick slice on your hands.

Saturday’s Big Brews and Blues not enough for you??

Then get your thirsty mug to these related events for

American Craft Beer Week in Dayton (We love Craft Beer)

Tuesday, May 17th: It’s Taco Tuesday at Pour Haus.  Starts at 5 pm.

Wednesday, May 18th: The American IPA Showcase at The Barrel House.  Starts at 5 pm.

Thursday, May 19th: Ohio Beer Spotlight at Dayton Beer Company featuring MadTree, FatHeads, Jackie O’s, Dayton Beer Company, and others. Starts at 5 pm.

Friday, May 20th: Big Brews and Blues Pre-party at Boston’s Bistro & Pub, featuring Hungarian food. Starts at 6:00pm.

 

Brew it up with Food Adventures each and every day by “liking” us on Facebook by clicking here.  No rules, no food critics, just serious eats and original photos!  We leave no plate unturned!

Chef House serving up a thirsty customer

The Big Ragu Welcomes you to Fantasy Island

Chef House and the Big Ragu

The Goose is loose !

wasssup

Sold out of beer !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is like the Olympiad, but for ,music and beer

We have been goin for years !

He’s got those blues !

Dogs, diabetes, Dayton

BBQ

Thank you Dave Boston !

cincy brew

MostMetro #1 –

Whippet good

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So Good

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pins and Beers

Try em all

this guy was loving life

Blues Live

Clowns allowed

Matt Harris – and friend

May is National BBQ Month

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bbq-2May is National Barbecue Month. A time for friends and family to get outside in the backyard and enjoy the beautiful weather we have!  It’s no secret that grilling is the ticket to an easy, delicious meal and a healthier lifestyle.   Outdoor cooking encourages us to make smarter food choices such as eating fresh rather than frozen foods Outdoor cooking remains more popular than ever, with 70% of Americans revealing that they prefer cooking out over eating out to save money, according to new national poll released today by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA).

 

1. Choose Your MeatsiStock_000002208533XSmall

National BBQ month is the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. How about a Jamaican Jerk Chicken or Planked Salmon? Hamburgers and hotdogs are classic grill fare, but have fun with a wide selection of meats including different cuts of beef, chicken, pork and seafood.

Grilled vegetable2. Pick Your Veggies

Colorful vegetable kabobs bursting with flavor are the essence of summer. Some of the best vegetables for grilling include tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, onions, potatoes, asparagus and—of course—corn on the cob.  Grilling is a surefire way for the whole family to get their proper intake of vegetables. Perfectly caramelized and wrapped in smoky goodness, they are hard to resist.

the four sauces in white dishes3. Select Your Side Items

What is a BBQ without creamy coleslaw, smoky baked beans and fresh salads? Perhaps you prefer macaroni and cheese, a pasta salad  or collared greens with a kick. Or step it up a notch with tomato and watercress salad, toasted Israeli couscous or barbecued deviled eggs. Explore new condiments, and dipping sauces.  

Saber Beauty Shot4. Make Sure You Have The Right Equipment

Gas or charcoal grilling: It’s the grate debate.  The most popularly priced gas grills are $129 to $299, while grills with more features will run between $800 and $1,500 and well beyond. Charcoal you can get something on the low end for about $25. A basic Weber kettle is around $150, while more deluxe models are upward of $600.

 

5. Upkeep / Maintenance

Gas You’ll have to check the gas connections and lines, replace the flavor briquettes, and refill the propane tanks as needed. You may also have to replace the ignition or grates now and then, and keep the burners, ignitor collector box, and drip tray clean. If you cover your grill when not in use, you can minimize upkeep.

Charcoal The grill grates should be replaced annually, or every other year, depending on wear and tear. There aren’t a lot of other parts to maintain unless you opt for a model with a gas ignition.

6.  Grill Good Food
What’s on top of your grate is just as important as what’s underneath it. Try to use seasonal, local, and organic produce and meats.   With all the local farmers markets starting to open up for the season, it’s easy to pick up local food.

No Joke! Apr 1st Food Adventure With Hairless Hare Beer & Company 7 BBQ

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BBQ paired with Hairless Hare Beer

It is going to be a “Hoppy April Fools Day” on April 1st in Dayton.  That is because the Food Adventures Crew is showcasing a dinner teaming up two North Dayton favorites.  Company 7 BBQ will partner with Hairless Hare Brewery for a 5 course, one-night-only dinner!  Hairless Hare is busy brewing four beers to be paired with the five course.

The best thing about this dinner may be the price.  Tickets are pre-pay only and are $25, which includes the tip!

***TICKETS MAY ONLY BE BOUGHT ONLINE THROUGH THIS LINK—> click HERE 

GREAT LOCAL BBQ:

Company 7 BBQ, in Englewood is known for 7 great, homemade BBQ sauces, and tremendous, slow cooked BBQ meats.   Company 7 has been featured  on national TV with a spot on the Travel Channel’s show “Food Paradise.”  Now it is time for an epic Food Adventure like no other.  The owners are a dad, son and a son-in-law, all of whom are firefighters.  They learned the BBQ craft through slow cooking methods and the fruits of their knowledge are your treat.

 

GREAT LOCAL BEER:

Hairless Hare Brewery, in Vandalia since 2013, is known for pushing the envelope of taste and ingenuity.  Their variety of beers is unmatched.  They experiment with different styles and flavors, and inventiveness is one of their trademarks.    So is quality and consistency.  Food Adventures met with owners Matt Harris and Mike Legg and, their beer pairings will go perfectly with the great BBQ.

Now, lets recap what you need to know about this one-night-only, one-of-a-kind feast for all you local foodies…

April Fools day will bring some BBQ and BEER together… no joke !

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Smoked Wings are course #2

WHAT: “HOPPY APRIL FOOLS DAY” DINNER at COMPANY 7 BBQ, FEATURING HAIRLESS HARE BREWERY

WHAT ELSE: 5 COURSE DINNER, MATCHED WITH 4 BEERS 

WHERE:  COMPANY 7 BBQ, 1001 S. Main St., Engelwood, Ohio (St. Rt. 48)

WHEN: FRIDAY NIGHT, APRIL 1st, 2016 at 7:00pm

COST: $25 per person, this includes gratuity.  WHAT A DEAL !  Here is the event on Facebook if you want to join, but remember …

**TICKETS MAY ONLY BE PURCHASED ONLINE BY CLICKING —>HERE

 

COMPANY 7 BBQ MENU:

COURSE 1 : HOMEMADE GUMBO

COURSE 2: SMOKED WINGS

COURSE 3: PULLED PORK SLIDERS with COLE SLAW

COURSE 4: BEEF BRISKET WITH BBQ BAKED BEANS

COURSE 5: HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER PIE

 

HAIRLESS HARE BEER PAIRING:

COURSE 1: TPA DOUBLE IPA

COURSE 2: “RYE THE HELL KNOT” PALE ALE – Aromas of bread and mild spice, with a smooth hoppy finish

Brewmaster Tony from Hairless Hare has our beer needs taken care of !

COURSE 3: CAERBANNOG ENGLISH BROWN ALE – Inspired by the rabbit and holy hand grenade from the movie “Monty Python’s Holy Grail”

COURSE 4: COLD WAR RUSSIAN IMPERIAL STOUT

 

There is one more thing…. THE AFTER PARTY moves to the bar!!!  And we negotiated a “hoppy hour…”

COMPANY 7 has 25 beers on tap and EACH BEER WILL BE ON SPECIAL for only $4 a PINT !

The AFTER PARTY is a cash bar, and the owners of both Company 7 and Hairless Hare will be mingling and answering any BBQ or beer questions you may have!

Get your tickets because the private party room has limited seating!  This promises to be the best April Fools event in Dayton !

Please “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here, so you don’t miss any of Dayton’s foodie scoop.

Check out our photos below from multiple visits to both Company 7 and Hairless Hare….

6 sauces.. the 7th sauce is a super secret hot sauce you have to specially ask for

Pork Sliders, BBQ Baked Beans, Texas Toast

Mike , Tony and Matt from Hairless Hare

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Promo 2

Hungry Jax and Company 7 Owner and firefighter Patrick Murty

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vandalias Finest

Beer sprouted bunny ears I thnk

Smoked Wings – ohh pass the sauces

Behold the super secret hot bbq sauce

Wheat beer from the Hare …

Ragu and Jax with 2 of the Company 7 owners

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At the Hairless Hare bar

Mike and Matt

Hairless Hare – many styles

Ragu was here

Tony’s a creative brewer


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Scratch Food” Caters the Suzy Pender Memorial for the 14th year

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BBQ Baby Back Ribs from Scratch Event Catering

In all of our Food Adventure articles, we feature extraordinary people doing extraordinary things. And even then some people stand out among the rest.  Take Chef Matt Hayden for example, owner of Scratch Event Catering.  He has owned bars, eateries, and learned to hone his culinary skills. Whether it is  taking an egg to whisk it, or smoking brisket, he is on top of it all.  He donates times to various charities, and never boasts or asks for recognition.  Matt does it for his love of the cause, and his love of pleasing people with good food.

One such event is the Suzy Pender Memorial Golf Outing.  This annual event will have its 14th golf outing this Saturday at Jamaica Run Golf Course.  Suzy was a Centerville native who had a love for golf and children.  She passed away unexpectedly in 2001,  at the age of 30.  She was an absolute angel, who was taken from this world, way too soon.  The golf outing honors her memory and helps causes that were close to her heart.  The purpose of the event, is to raise money to buy stuffed animal Teddy Bears.  These bears are given to hospitalized children to help comfort them.  Tens of thousands of bears have been given to children at Miami Valley Hospital over the past 14 years.

Matt Hayden has also been there over the past 14 years donating his food, time and resources to make this event what it is today.  Matt’s wife Carey along with a committee of Suzy’s friends, run the benefit without a hitch.  Saturday’s event  has already sold out the maximum  # of golfers.  Again, we can’t say enough good things about the committee that organizes this golf outing each year.  The door prizes and fun times are second to none.

Scratch Event Catering typically makes and incredible BBQ buffet spread featuring all you want baby back ribs, pulled pork, roasted chicken and some tasty southern style soul sides.  It is nothing short of a great Food Adventure !  Every year we see Matt running around, serving hot food, and providing a delicious and filling meal.  He and his staff work hard, and it shows in the end product.

Chef Matt Hayden, a Dayton Native who gives back to the Community

Today we recognize Matt’s dedication of 14 years and counting to this charity.  We also say THANK YOU, for giving back to the community, year after year.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Want to donate to the Suzy Pender Memorial Fund ?  Email Debbi  at KinderdineD@yahoo.com

Do you need a catering company with some savory food or a healthy menu?  Contact Scratch Event Catering at (937) 567-7850.  Learn more about Chef Hayden in his DMM 10? interview.

Please feel free to browse some photos of the last 14 years of the Suzy Pender Memorial Outing, catered by Scratch Food.

 

Want to stay on top of the best food happenings in Dayton?  Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !  All food, all Dayton, all the time !

 

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BBQ, Blues & Bacon – Dayton’s Newest Festival

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pigfestCombine the area’s finest BBQ restaurants, then mix in the rage that is sweeping the nation, BACON! Add some blues bands, 30+ craft vendors, a kids zone with bounce houses, clowns, face painting and balloons and you’ve got Dayton’s newest festival PIGGFEST USA.  Debuting this Friday from 5-10pm and Sat 10am -9pm at the Dayton Expo Center, Dayton native Chad Mullins is “excited about bringing Pitmasters for all over the country together for some for some of the best BBQ ever.”

Ribs, Brisket, Pulled Pork, Chicken, Bacon from:

  • Company 7 BBQ
  • Rudys Smokehouse
  • Pigtails BBQ
  • The Tin Roof
  • Piggin N Grinnin
  • Fatbacks BBQ
  • Porkys Smokehouse
  • Boston’s Bistro and Pub
  • Brixx Ice Company
  • G’s Cue BBQ
  • Bob Evans
  • Off the Bone BBQ

also on hand Waffle World, Rhonda’s Homemade Candies, Ritter’s Frozen Custard and Amaizing Grace Kettle Corn

10394554_10202270745631831_2412244247669876088_nBANDS – Friday

BANDS – Saturday

 

Ticket Info

 

  • Adults $7
  • Kids 7-12 $5
  • 6 and under FREE
  • Ticket good all weekend with hand stamp

$2 off coupons available from the PigFest website.

DMM Ticket Giveaway:
We’ve got your hookup for BBQ & Blues, just like this post,  fill out the form below, and leave a comment on why you should win tickets and we’ll announce three winners of a pair of tickets Wed night!  [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

 

The Greatest Potato Salad in the World *** Win 2 lbs & Cabbage Rolls ***

By 28 Comments

John Mott with his great potato salad

Third Generation Owner John Mott with his Famous Belmont Catering Potato Salad

Are you aware that the greatest potato salad in the world is in Dayton, Ohio? The Big Ragu knows…

YES, it is true!  But many Daytonians already knew that Belmont Catering is the potato salad mecca of the Midwest.  If you are like us, their potato salad has been a special treat at your family functions and holidays for decades.

We will have many foaming at the mouth for this giveaway:

****Comment on the story below and one winner will be chosen at random.  The prize is 2 pounds of Belmont Catering’s famous potato salad and 6 of their cabbage rolls !!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Belmont Catering has been providing the best potato salad you have ever eaten for over 35 years.  It is a Food Adventure in a container….

— Family owned for 3 generations, today’s owner John Mott still sticks to the basics that made the company a success.

— Located on 730 Watervliet Rd. near the intersection of Smithville, you may sometimes see a line out the door. 

— The potato salad is such a cult classic that former Dayton residents have it shipped overnight all over the USA.  One person even overnighted a huge cooler of the stuff to Manhattan in New York City and paid $100 in shipping!  Who does that, unless it is the best potato salad in the world.

Freshly peeled by hand

On busy weekends, Belmont Catering Hand Peels 2,000lbs of Potatoes. Yep, a TON of Potatoes

— Belmont Catering goes through about 500 pounds of potatoes a week, and on holiday weekends they go through 1,500 – 2,000 pounds of potatoes.  Yes, that is a ton of potatoes.   The staff told us that 50 pounds of potatoes makes about 65 pounds of Potato Salad.

— Our biggest tip is CALL AHEAD.  It is best to call in your order 1 or 2 days ahead of time.  If you just stop in, it will be rare for you to find what you need because everything is usually sold out since items are made to order.  You can thank the Food Adventures Crew later for this advice.

 

MUST EATS:  

— THE POTATO SALAD:  OBVIOUSLY .. at $4.25 a pound, there are lines out the door for this stuff.  but why is it so good?  Is it the pimentos?  The Mustard? The Mayonnaise? NOOOO !

Here is the secret to the world’s best potato salad:

1) The potatoes are peeled, rinsed, then SHREDDED like hash browns.  This gives a distinct, one-of-a-kind texture and no hard chunks.

2) No chunks of eggs in the salad.  This is potato salad, not egg salad.  Eggs may or may be in the recipe, but you won’t see any ….

3)  Cleanliness.  The kitchen is immaculate.  The Montgomery County Health Inspectors have given Belmont Catering the highest marks over their last 19 visits to the kitchen.

4) Third Generation Owner, John Mott is still using his Grandmother’s recipe.  And by the way, her recipe will blow your mom’s potato salad out of the water.  It is reminiscent of the movie “What’s Up tiger Lily” where they hunted down a similar recipe, “a salad so delicious you could pltoz.”

 

Storefront on Watervliet

Storefront on 730 Watervliet Ave., Inside is the World’s Greatest Potato Salad

Oh but that’s not all.   Belmont Catering did not build its business on potato salad alone.

There are more, MUST EATS such as:

— CABBAGE ROLLS:  $6.80 for 6 of them, they are also a cult favorite.

— THE BBQ PULLED PORK: Outstanding flavor, and sold at $6.90 a pound

There are many more items, but these are our top favorites.   You can find a list of pick up items HERE, we cannot stress enough the need to call ahead..

And then there is the CATERING aspect of their business.  If you need an event catered, breakfasts, cookouts, or boxed lunches, these are your go to guys.  They pretty much deliver a Food Adventure to your event.   Belmont Catering has built this business for decades with great food and service.

With Labor Day Weekend right around the corner, now is a perfect time to treat yourself to some of the World’s Best Potato Salad !!

Cabbage Rolls - frozen to go, or made fresh to order

Cabbage Rolls – Frozen or Made Fresh to Order

Get down to Belmont Catering on Watervliet, and pick up a taste of great potato salad, but call ahead!  No cookout, picnic, holiday or family event is complete without it!

 

****Who wants to win some of their great food?  Comment below for your chance to win ! ****

Food Adventures is going to giveaway 2 pounds of their famous potato salad and 6 cabbage rolls to one lucky reader!!

To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment below on this story, telling us why you want the goods.  One winner will be picked at RANDOM next week.

There is another way you can be a winner in general, like  Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !  Anything else is just a generic copy..

Check out our photo gallery from our visits to Belmont Catering, below.

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Americana Festival: 5k, FOOD, Fireworks & Fox

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Pork Chops on the Grill

Run, eat and watch fireworks in the street. The Americana Festival is celebrating 41 years strong with this year’s event in downtown Centerville.  This year we have the star spangled scoop on some new Food Adventure attractions and happenings.

The Big Ragu is a lifelong Centerville guy, so this festival is close to our homes and our hearts.  We cant think of a better way to celebrate freedom and the good ole’ USA, than this event.

 

Here is a day in the life of a 4th of July Food Adventurer at the Americana  Festival:

7:30am:  5K RUN at Centerville Stadium.  Why?  So we can eat all day, guilt free, that’s why !

9:30am: Sneak between the chairs lining the streets, dart across State Route 48 and see what food vendors are open early.  Ragu actually had a 9:45am cheesesteak 2 years ago.

10:00am: Watch the AMERICANA FESTIVAL PARADE. We hope to march in he parade someday, carrying flags with cheeseburgers on them, and wearing sequin shorts…

 

Harvest Mobile Food Truck will be at the Festival

11:30am – 4:00pm:  STREET FAIR: We are excited to be checking out these MUST EATS !!

—HARVEST MOBILE:  Who else loves the healthy “Local Wrap?”

— ZOMBIE DOGZ:  The Nibbler Dog ! Heck, any hot dog they have is a true original and something you wont taste anywhere else!

— EL MESON FOOD TRUCK: Empanadas to die for !

— MOM’S HOMEMADE GOODIES: Incredible Soft Pretzels

— SANTORINI’S GREEK KITCHEN:  The Gyros are must eats.  They are grilled fresh by these guys in from Indianapolis.

— TIM HORTON’S:  You may need the coffee for some quick energy

— OLD TYME POPCORN:  Kettle Corn experts !

— LaROSA’S:  You gotta get some pizza slices from this Cincinnati icon

— CINDY LOU’S BBQ:  Any BBQ entree is delicious here !

— KONA ICE:  Cool off with a SnoCone cup with tiger’s blood sauce !

El Meson will be at the Street Fair

— CORK N BOTTLE’S AMERICAN GRILL:  Any one of their sandwiches are delicious, cheap, and a handful !

— BLACKJACK GRILL:  The best grilled porkchops in Dayton

—NELLY’S CHICKEN:  The rotesserie roasted, Bolivian recipe chicken is nothing short of amazing on flavor !

As you can see there are gonna be plenty of options to light your fireworks.  We didnt even mention the carnival type food, or local places within walking distance like SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE, JOHNNY’S SLICE OF NY, BILLS DONUTS, MARION’S PIZZA, CITY BBQ, GRAETERS ICE CREAM, ROOT48, and MCDIGGERS PUB.

We will also be hanging out with Fox and Friend’s Brian Kilmeade who will be in town promoting his new book!

10:00PM: FIREWORKS AT CENTERVILLE FOOTBALL STADUM.  We usually cap off the night by attending the fireworks with family, after napping off a food coma.

 

Show your patriotism this Friday.  Whether it is chanting USA, or wearing a US Flag t-shirt, we hope you have the time of your life.  We suggest you do just that in downtown Centerville on the 4th !
Even Uncle Sam will be there, and so will The Food Adventures Crew.

Want be a good American?  Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook HERE.  We are often imitated, never duplicated.

Check out our Americana Food Photos below !

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Rock n Green Tomato Festival to Feature Pie Baking Contest !

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Delicious pie

Green Tomato Pie – Can you make the best one?

Calling all bakers!!  Miamisburg needs you.  Saturday June 14th is the 4th Annual Rock N Green Tomato Festival.  One of the features is a “GREEN TOMATO PIE CONTEST.”  

Can you bake the best pie?  Do you have what it takes?  Can you be the champ?  Prizes will include 1st, 2nd and 3rd place trophies.  Register and prove you have the skills to make the most delicious pie of them all!

The judges for this contest are the only locals with mouths big enough to fit the bill, Chef House, Hungry Jax and Big Ragu from Food Adventures !

 

***TO ENTER THE BAKING CONTEST, Fill out and send in this form by June 11th !  —> click here for form

You have to register by June 11th, then bring your pie to Ron’s Pizza house at 5:30pm on June 14th.  The contest begins at 6pm.  Ron’s will keep your pie warm or cold for you at your direction.  The Food Adventures Crew are serious eaters, and are sure to have their taste buds tuned up and ready for the test …  Are you kitchen savvy enough to win?  Then get your oven mitts, pie crusts, and baking pans ready for this Green Tomato Pie Baking Contest.  But most of all, you have to sign up !

Green Tomato Pizza

Green Tomato Pizza? It was Delicious !

 

This event promises to be a festive Food Adventure at Miamisburg’s Riverfront Park!

The Rock N Green Tomato Festival is relatively new, but has picked up a loyal following in 4 short years.

This cozy festival is a blast and a MUST EAT on your summer list of festivities.  It is a friendly, fun atmosphere with plenty of food and drink.  Speaking of which..

We also have a side contest***  WANT TO WIN DINNER with THE FOOD ADVENTURE CREW at the Rock n Green Tomato Festival for you and a friend?  Then comment on the story below and tell us why you deserve it!  One winner will be chosen at random, and they may bring a guest and meet us at the festival at 4pm.   It looks like Hamburger Wagon Burgers and Ron’s Pizzas are on the menu !  You cant beat a free dinner for you and a pal with 2 original Dayton Food Adventurers!

Fried Green Tomatoes

We love the Fried Green Tomatoes at the festival

 

*******FESTIVAL INFO*******

WHAT: ROCK N GREEN TOMATO FESTIVAL

WHEN: SATURDAY JUNE 14th from Noon – 11pm

WHERE:  Downtown Miamisburg, next to Ron’s Pizza At Riverfront Park

WHAT ELSE:  

— CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT $250 to winner – click here to enter –

— LIVE MUSIC from Noon – 11pm   – schedule of bands here –

Hamburge Wagon Burger

This Hamburger Wagon Burger didn’t last long on our plate

 

— 5k RUN/WALK at 10am – click here to register –

— FOOD AND MERCHANDISE VENDORS – -want to be a vendor? CLICK HERE –

— HAMBURGER EATING CONTEST

— KIDS GAMES and BOUNCY CASTLE

— HULA HOOP CONTEST

— JITTERBUG CONTEST

 

*****For all the event info visit: www.rockngreentomato.com/   *****

The Food Adventures Crew will see you there !  Don’t forget to comment on this article for a chance to win dinner with them  the night of the festival !

Browse through our Food Adventure photo gallery below from past 3 years of “Rock n Green Tomato Festivals.”    Also, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE !

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