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Where to Order Boxed Lunches

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Whether you are hosting a business meeting, a special event, or just looking for a convenient meal solution, our list  boxed lunch options and catering services are perfect for any occasion. These optionsfeature a wide selection of fresh and flavorful options that will impress your guests and leave them satisfied.

Cherry House Cafe

1241 Meadow Bridge Dr, Beavercreek  OH 45434

(937) 320-6200

Our boxed lunches consist of your choice of sandwich, side and a cookie. Each lunch is customized by individual, and labeled by name with a napkin and fork included. Orders can be picked up at our drive-through window.

Order of 9 or Less. $9.95 Per Guest

Order of 10 or More. $9.50 Per Guest

Complete the order form below at least 24 hours in advance or call Cherry House Café at 937.320.6200 to check availability if you need your order sooner. You may also download the order form and email.

Belmont Catering

730 Watervliet Ave, Dayton, OH 45420 |(937) 253-2197

Boxed lunch consists of sandwich, two side dishes, condiments, fork, and napkin.   Price per lunch based on sandwich selection. Sandwiches include leaf lettuce and tomato. Sides – Choose Two: Potato Salad (Belmont Catering’s famous recipe) / Apple Sauce Pasta Salad / Baked Beans / Three Bean Salad / Cole Slaw Macaroni Salad / Celery & Carrots / Fresh Fruit Salad / Candy Bar
Minimum order of 20 boxes Delivery available for orders of 20 boxes or greater.
Fresh Green Salad Boxed Lunches and Chicken or Tuna Salad Croissant Boxed Lunches are also available.  Advanced notice required.

Brock Masterson’s

101 E Alex Bell Rd Suite 104C, Dayton, OH 45459 | (937) 298-1234

Call today to order your box lunches. Looking for hot sandwiches? Ask about our On-Site Panini Chef who will make delicious hot sandwiches for your guests.

$9.95 Deluxe Sandwich, Kettle Chips, Dessert
$11.95 Deluxe Sandwich, Small Side Salad, Kettle Chips, Dessert
$14.95 Deluxe Sandwich, Large Side Salad (or 2 small sides), Kettle Chips, Dessert

Please add $2.00 per sandwich for Vegetarian, Vegan or Gluten Free.

Call Traci (937-701-8926) today to order your box lunches (a minimum of 10 please).

For orders under 10, please call for pricing.
For orders under qty. of 25, please select the same side and dessert for all lunches.

Dorothy Lane Market

Individually packed Box Lunches are the perfect solution to fuel your group lunch needs. Choose from the Original, Famous Deli Sandwiches, or a Salad Box Lunch.

Each Original Box Lunch comes with one side, DLM Kettle Cooked Potato Chips or baby carrots, and a dessert. $15
Salad Boxed Lunch Chef’s Salad, Cobb Salad, Chicken Caesar Salad, and Garden Salad. All our Deli Salads include a Bavarian Pretzel Stick and choice of DLM Dressing: Blue Cheese, House, Ranch, or Raspberry Vinaigrette. $12

Our DLM Famous Deli Sandwich Box Lunch options consist of Mom’s Healthy Hummus, Little Ed’s Big Reuben, Carrie Makes Tom’s Club, and the Bavarian Pretzel–wow, which one will you choose? Each sandwich comes with your choice of two sides, DLM Kettle Cooked Potato Chips or baby carrots, and a dessert. $17

Honey Baked Ham

5515 Salem Ave, Dayton, OH 45426 | (937) 854-2600
101 E Alex Bell Rd, Centerville, OH 45459 | (937) 439-0707

SIGNATURE SANDWICH BOXED LUNCH $11.59

Each box includes your choice of signature sandwich. Served with Deep River kettle chips and a cookie.

SPECIALTY SANDWICH BOXED LUNCH $12.59

Each box includes your choice of specialty sandwich. Served with Deep River kettle chips and a cookie.

COBB SALAD BOXED LUNCH $11.59

Honey Baked Ham, bacon, cheddar cheese, roasted tomatoes, pickled red onions, hard boiled egg, and cornbread croutons on a blend of green leaf & spring mix. Includes salad and served with a cookie.

Jersey Mikes

Includes any Cold Sub, Chips & Cookie. Ideal for business meetings, school activities, field trips, outdoor gatherings or other fun events.
Available in Regular or Mini Sizes
Available with drinks or without
Delivery available
$13.35 – $15.45

McAlister’s Deli

Choose from a variety of sandwiches, made fresh to order daily, served on a tray and tailored to feed even the hungriest of crowds and the pickiest of eaters!  Served with chips and pickles. Classic sandwich and salad boxes run $11.69 – $12.59

Classic Sandwich Box – Choice of Black Angus Roast Beef, Black Forest Ham, and Smoked Turkey on baguette with spring mix and tomatoes or Harvest Chicken Salad and Turkey Cobb sandwiches.

The Veggie Sandwich Spinach, tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, balsamic red onions, house-roasted multi-colored peppers, avocado and herb mayo, seasoned with salt n’ pepper on 9-Grain bread.

Wrap Boxes -Choose from one of our signature sandwich wraps including Chicken Caesar, Turkey Bacon Ranch, Southwest Chicken, Veggie, or Club Wrap box.

We take care of the details from start to finish to ensure your event is perfect. We’ll deliver your order and set up to your liking. We include all necessary supplies: utensils, plates, napkins, condiments and heating equipment (when applicable).

Pita Pit

1047 Brown St, Dayton, OH 4 5 3 2 2

Pita sandwich Lunch Boxes include a sandwich, chips and a cookie. Salad and Brown Rice Quinoa Lunch Boxes include a salad OR Brown Rice Quinoa Bowl, pita wedges and a cookie.

Potbelly Sandwich Works 

Basic Belly Box comes with a sandwich & chips for a craveable combo. Sandwiches come with lettuce, tomato and condiment packets. Served on a mix of white and multi-grain bread.

Perfect Belly Box comes with a sandwich, chips & cookie for a tasty trio. Sandwiches come with lettuce, tomato and condiment packets. Served on a mix of white and multi-grain bread.

Rob’s Restaurant & Catering

705 Arlington Rd, Brookville, OH 45309 | (937) 833-3310
You can order online here.

Cold Sandwich $14  With 2 sides and cookie

Sandwich Options
Club Sub | Ham & Swiss | Roast Beef & Cheddar | Chicken Salad | Tuna Salad

Sides (Choose 2)
Pasta Salad | Coleslaw | Potato Salad | Broccoli Salad | Fruit Salad | Chips

Hot Box Lunch Meals $15 Choice of any Hot Entree with two sides. Add dessert for $2.00

Chef Salad
Salad greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, turkey, ham, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese

Grilled or Fried Chicken Salad

Vegetarian Options Available

Tom & Dot’s

36 s Main Street, Miamisburg, Oh 45342
Let Tom & Dot’s cater your next luncheon! Boxed lunches are $12 and include either a ham, turkey or veggie sub, pasta salad and a cookie. 48 hours advance notice on all orders. Call 937-388-8006 to place an order.

TJ Chumps

$10.00 Charge For Delivery (Depending on Delivery Area)
Min. of 20 Boxes per Order
24 hr Advance Notice Appreciated

All Lunches Include Cutlery Kit w/ Salt, Pepper, Napkin, Knife, Fork, and Spoon

Boxed Lunch Sandwich Prices Include Sandwich, Side, and Dessert
Salad Prices Include Dessert
Soup Prices Include Dessert
20oz Pepsi Products Available for $2.50 each

All Boxes come in container with Black Base and Clear Top

Dayton Bar Stars – Gretchen Kelly

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Dayton Bar Star Gretchen Kelly

Gretchen Kelly, about to do some work…

The University of Dayton is an amazing asset for the city. It is one of the best Catholic universities in the country, educating roughly 10,000 students in a variety of disciplines. Their development has helped the city, from their incredible law and entrepreneurship programs to their basketball program with has drawn national attention. The school is continuing to grow, taking an active role in the rebirth of the Arcade downtown and providing a solid foundation for growing businesses around campus. The number of events that occur at the university, from small gatherings in the library to hosting the First Four, are staggering. It is not too much of an exaggeration to say if you go to an event at the University of Dayton, Gretchen Kelly has had some hand in the drinks being poured there.

Gretchen has been working at the University of Dayton for years, starting in the dining halls and working her way up to a supervisor for all of their catering. But when she has the opportunity, she is back with the staff pouring drinks for thirsty guests. To work some of the events there, she has one accolade that few other bartenders in the city can claim; Secret Service clearance. Serving some of the patrons at Flyer games requires clearance by some of the top officers in the country. You may have seen her more recently at The Main Event, the huge gala was thrown by the Dayton Metro Library to provide a sneak peek at their beautiful new library. You may have even noticed her at an Art Ball or two, bartending with Kohler Catering.  Her skills are in high demand at some of the top events in the area. They are also in demand at the Oregon Express, where you can find her on the odd night mixing cocktails, pulling beers, and enjoying the live bands that toll through that venue.

Dayton Bar Stars

Her radio show will be back in June, with unknown bands you need to hear.

If you have not been on the receiving end of her bartending abilities, it is possible you have enjoyed one of her other passions: working with musicians. She has been booking bands for years at notable venues like the Canal Street and her home bar, Oregon Express. Her bartending adventures have taken her as far as Loveland, OH, where she ran the stick for a bar owned by the head cheerleader for the Cincinnati Bengals. She is still booking talent at the Express, even as she is transitioning to a new format for her radio show. The station and the show will be launching in June. Her one-hour show will focus on up-and-coming unsigned bands from around the world.

Gretchen has been a staple at the University of Dayton for years, and it looks like she will be one for many more. From small breakfast meetings to an UD Arena filled to capacity, she will be there taking care of her guests with a smile. Yet another amazing asset at UD.

How did you get into bartending?

After three years as a server at the Oregon Express, they trained me as a bartender. I had four different people train me.

Dayton Bar Stars Belle Of Dayton Vodka

Gretchen with one of her loves.

What is your favorite drink to make?

A Chocolate Martini with the chocolate syrup swirled in the glass.

Which drink makes you internally cringe?

When it’s busy, anything with a blender!

Do you have a favorite spirit you like to work with?

Vodka, because you can mix it with anything.

When you go out for a drink in Dayton, where is your favorite place to go?

Too many places to name!

Who is the most famous person you have served?

Band members from LIVE and Collective Soul.

What do you do when you are not bartending?

Work some of my other jobs. I have an internet radio show (Can I get more information on this new venture?)

Dayton Metro Library Main Event

A small part of The Main Event Crew.

What are your favorite trends from the last year?

It seems more people are drinking Tullamore D.E.W., an Irish whiskey.

What trends do you see coming to Dayton over the next six months?

I will love any trend that does not require a blender.

What advice do you want to give bartenders just getting into the business?

The best way to learn is from other experienced bartenders. Then you can develop your own style of drinks.

What do you love most about Dayton?

Most everything!

Most interesting thing you have seen from behind the bar?

Tending bar at an event at the Boonshoft Museum and watching my friends slide down the slides while wearing evening gowns and tuxedos.

Getting ready to go at the Oregon Express.

How has bartending changed in the time you have been in the industry?

Too much technology at some places. It takes more time to ring up drinks on a system at times. Some of the pre-measuring takes away from the speed and unique techniques of a good bartender from making the perfect drink.

Any interesting stories about having to deal with a difficult customer?

I had a guy at a wedding once say to me ” If I get too drunk you are driving me home.” I replied, ” Here is your Coke.”

What do you wish customers knew that helped you do your job?

Do NOT to try and get our attention by saying “Hey baby.”

If you were not a bartender, what career would you be pursuing?

Bartending for me is like breathing. I have to bartend.

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

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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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Christopher’s Restaurant: Saintly and Sinful

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Mushroom Bisque one of many homemade soups

Some say the food at Christopher’s Restaurant is like a religious experience.  That would make sense because the eatery is named after St. Christopher, the patron saint of travel.  Owner/Chef Chip Pritchard and his staff have developed a cult following with the locals, and a favorite stop of foodies who are passing through town.  Why?  Because it is comfort food.  It is not pretentious, just good solid food.  We met the owners at a farmer’s market and it has been a favorite Food Adventure stop ever since.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Known for their extensive, fresh menu it is a salad, soup and sandwich lovers paradise.

— Vegetarian and Vegan friendly choices make it a favorite healthy dining spot.  Many gluten free menu items to choose from as well.

The Black Bean Burger: not just for vegans anymore

— Breakfast menu that rivals anyplace in Dayton.   Most overheard quote at Christopher’s  “you gotta come back for breakfast.”  Tasty indeed.

— Christopher’s employs two bakers who make the desserts from scratch twice a week.  Check the revolving choices and make sure you don’t miss out on these sinful offerings.

— Thursday nights are “theme nights.”    Probably our favorite time to visit Christopher’s.  Guaranteed great foodstuffs in a fun, inviting atmosphere.  Most recently, we went to Caribbean Theme Night on September 12th.

— Christopher’s uses local farms, local produce, naturally raised beef, organic salmon (from Foremost Seafood), local free range eggs, and organic coffee and teas.

Speaking of which, The Big Ragu and crew have to tell you about …. the MUST EATS at CHRISTOPHERS

Many organic items like Ice Teas served with fresh, local mint sprigs

— THE CHRISTOPHER SPECIAL:  A bacon sandwich with avocado, tomato, Neufantel cream cheese and bean sprouts. We crave this and get nights sweats thinking about this specialty sandwich.

— THE MEZZA PLATE:  House Hummus, falafel, feta cheese chunks, kalamata olives, tomato slices, cucumbers and carrots surrounded by pita chips.  This ain’t your grandparents vegetarian menu…

— BUFFALO CHICKEN SOUP:  Phenomenal homemade soup with a kick better than Pelé.  Eat some and become a Buffalo Soldier like The Big Ragu.

— THE BLACK BEAN BURGER: Even if you are not a vegetarian, you gotta try this delicious and filling burger.

— MUSHROOM BISQUE: One of our all time fave soups is simply divine.  Creamy goodness in every spoonful.

— CARROT CAKE:  The homemade icing will have you saying “dude, seriously?”  Try it, your tummy will thank us.

— BUMBLEBERRY PIE:   Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.  Yes, 3 berries, one pie.  Served cold or hot, you can’t lose with this fresh, local creation.  Big Ragu approved !

— TWO GOOD BREAKFAST: Two eggs, two pieces of bacon, two pieces of sausage and two pancakes or French toast.

Delicious, Fresh Breakfast Choices

Honorable Mention: Bacon & Tomato Omelette, Honey BBQ Chicken and The “Decent Breakfast” which features choices of fruit or home fries, choice of meat, 2 eggs and a biscuit, toast or English muffin.

This quaint dining establishment is a great place for a date, or a visit with your grandmother.  Expect great service, as the staff is friendly and very knowledgeable.  The eclectic menu at Christopher’s Restaurant is a great place for a serious eater.  From healthy, to vegan, from ethnic to good old fashioned American comfort food, they have it all.  It fits the bill for practically any occasion.  Best of all, many ingredients are fresh and local.    Give it a try next time you are near the corner of Woodman Dr and Dorothy Lane. They are open Monday – Saturday: 7:30am – 9pm.  They use organic to make meals that are fantastic.

Browse the many dishes in our photo album below from our many meals at Christopher’s.

Love Facebook?  Want some more from your favorite “foodies in their forties?”  Then check out Food Adventures on Facebook   —> HERE

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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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Recap: Big Brews & Blues.. and FOOD !

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Big Brews & Blues – one terrific event

Drinking craft beers while listening to a regional blues man hum away on his harmonica.  What better way to raise money for  Diabetes Dayton?   The annual Big Brews & Blues event was held last weekend at Carrillon Park and hundreds of attendees enjoyed dozens of craft beers.  There were Big Brews, there were Blues, and of course, there was food.   We were on hand for another Food Adventure supporting a local charity.   Pouring beer in full force were the staff of  Dayton Most Metro and Lisa Grigsby with Dayton Dining.  Tickets were $30 in advance or $35 at the door.  The event went from 5pm – 9pm and each guest received a souvenir beer tasting glass.  Full pint tickets were also available for a special price.

The crowd danced and drank.   They ate and socialized.  They sipped and quipped.    So which brews were our favorites?  What food items blues.. (ahem) blew us away?  All that is coming, but first a summary.

 

If you didn’t attend Big Brews & Blues…

HERE IS WHAT YOU MISSED:

—Endless samplings of almost 50 craft beers from local and national breweries.  A detailed list of the beers may be found HERE.

—Blues acts with roots from Chicago, Tennessee, Detroit, Cincinnati and Columbus.  It was an incredible night of good blues music.  Groups included Joe and Jack Waters, Them Bones, Johnny Mack & the Heavyweights, and finally Big Joe Blues.

—Food Vendors.  This is our thing, so we enjoyed the likes of Brock Masterson Catering, Hickory River Smokehouse, Fressa Food Truck and Kaimelsky’s Food Cart.

— Breweries Represented:

Dayton Beer Company, Yellow Springs Brewery, Valley Vineyards, Weasel Boy, Listermann, Mt Carmel, Rivertown,  Christian Morlein, Hoppin Frog, Barley’s, Ohio Brewing Company, Jackie O’s, Great Lakes, Erie Brewing, Thirsty Dog, Triton, Anderson Valley, Hinterland, Fathead’s,  Revolution, Two Brothers, Stone Brewing, Brew Kettle Taproom, Bell’s, Southern Tier, Founders, Troegs,  Ommegang, Uinta, 21st Amendment, Atwater Brewery,  Elevator, Finch’s Beer Company,  Anchor Brewing, Kona, Redhook, Shocktop, Widmer Brothers, Goose Island, Boston Beer Co.,   Leinenkugel, Harpoon,  and Ace Premium Hard Ciders.

 

What goes better with beer than a Nathan’s hot Dog from Kaimelsky’s Food Cart?

There were so many good beers and decent food, that we were pressed to pick just one favorite, but here we go…

OUR FAVORITES FROM THE FESTIVAL:

HUNGRY JAX’s FAVORITE BIG BREW:   The Sam Adam’s Honey Queen Braggot was her top pick.  It is made with 3 types of honey, and had a nice hoppy flavor.   They tapped the keg right in front of her, and she was in heaven.  It was one of those “Damn, this is good!” moments.

HUNGRY JAX’S FAVORITE FOOD OFFERING: What goes better with beer than a Nathan’s hot dog from Kaimelsky’s Food Cart?  This hot dog was topped with spicy mustard, onions and Sriracha sauce.   It was worth it.

THE BIG RAGU’s FAVORITE BIG BREW:  Whippet Wheat from Thirsty Dog Brewery gets his vote for its crisp taste with touch of banana flavor.  It was the first time we had a Thirsty Dog beer on tap since the mid 1990’s.  It was like a flashback, so we put on some MC Hammer pants and danced in the tent until security showed up.

THE BIG RAGU’s FAVORITE FOOD OFFERING:  Hickory River’s Pulled Pork Sandwich is Ragu’s pick.  The slow cooked pork was great, but the real secret was the incredible BBQ sauce.  Choices of topping were Sweet, Hot or Mixed sauce on your sandwich.  We chose mixed, and that made all the difference.

This was a fun filled night.  We poured a few beers for MostMetro.  We had delicious crab cakes from Brock Masterson’s catering, and some tasty buffalo chips with blue cheese dip from Fressa Food Truck.   We talked at length with the owners and managers of  Star City Brewery, which will be opening in the former Peerless Mill site before the end of 2013.   Event photographer Sarah Browning, also chatted with us, while snapping  a few pics of  The Big Ragu.

We even had an ‘America’s Got Talent’ moment, when we were getting our groove on near the stage with the blues band.  We even snapped a photo of the lead singer during one of the blues sets.   You won’t see that anywhere else,  unless they copy our soulful dance moves.

Here’s to not having to hear about hiking and heartburn anymore ! Brews & Blues is a blast

The best part of this event is that it benefits Diabetes Dayton each year.  Proceeds from the Big Brews & Blues help uninsured local residents with diabetes.  Funds pay for desperately needed supplies.  Diabetes Dayton also educates people in the Miami Valley who are suffering from diabetes, as well as paying for summer camp for diabetic children who just want to lead a normal, active life.  Thank you to Diabetes Dayton Executive Director Susan McGovern for welcoming us as special guests to this benefit.  Canned Soft Drinks and  Bottled Water were for sale benefiting the Dougie Apple Tree Memorial Scholarship Fund.   Dougie was a local resident, who passed away from diabetes at just 26 years old.

If you missed Big Brews & Blues, make sure you catch it this time next year.  Stay tuned to Dayton Most Metro for info!   The Big Ragu will be there in 2014, at this Food Adventure for a good cause.  It will be another ‘blast in a glass.’   We promise not spill any beer or BBQ sauce on you.

BROWSE THROUGH THE PHOTO ALBUM BELOW FOR ALL THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS of BIG BREWS & BLUES !!

BREWERIES REPRESENTED INCLUDED:

Dayton Beer Company, Yellow Springs Brewery, Valley Vineyards, Weasel Boy, Listermann, Mt Carmel, Rivertown,  Christian Morlein, Hoppin Frog, Barley’s, Ohio Brewing Company, Jackie O’s, Great Lakes, Erie Brewing, Thirsty Dog, Triton, Anderson Valley, Hinterland, Fathead’s,  Revolution, Two Brothers, Stone Brewing, Brew Kettle Taproom, Bell’s, Southern Tier, Founders, Troegs,  Ommegang, Uinta, 21st Amendment, Atwater Brewery,  Elevator, Finch’s Beer Company,  Anchor Brewing, Kona, Redhook, Shocktop, Widmer Brothers, Goose Island, Boston Beer Co.,   Leinenkugel, Harpoon,  and Ace Premium Hard Ciders.

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Food Adventure to Charlie’s Deli and Catering

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 Sometimes, you just have to “kick it old school.”  Being lifelong residents of Dayton, Food Adventures appreciates the history of the Gem City.  One of these spots is the oldest delicatessen in the Dayton area, Charlie’s Deli and Catering. 

Located at 429 Troy Street, this popular German influenced sandwich shop has been feeding the masses since 1964.  They are located in Old North Dayton for a reason.  Back in the early sixties, the area was not called Old North Dayton, but was nicknamed “Texas” or “Parma.”   Many German immigrants and families from Eastern Europe occupied the neighborhood.  Charlie’s Deli was created to match the demand for authentic German fare and imported items.

Started by Charlie Vangas, the deli is now owned by Charlie’s son Rod Vangas and his wife, Becky.  They still hold on to tradition here, and even have a photo of  Charlie with Channel 7 news legend Don Wayne.  But the old school atmosphere is only the beginning.  Charlies Deli and Catering prides itself on serving tasty sandwiches with freshly sliced lunch meats Monday thru Friday from 7:15 am – 6 pm.  They are  open Saturdays 9am – 3pm and closed on Sundays.  The menu has a wide variety of tastes and you could spend a lunch hour just reading the uniquely named sandwiches (click here to see what we are talking about).  The prices are a great value, with most sandwiches ranging from $4.50 – $6.75.  We love the great choices of breads and buns for your sandwich, and appreciate that they use Springfield’s own Woeber’s Mustard varieties on many sandwiches.
The first specialty sandwich served at Charlie’s was the “Black Forest Sandwich” and it still remains a popular choice today.   It is comprised of roast beef, super sharp cheese, bacon, tomato, mayo or Woeber’s horseradish mustard, served on your choice of German Rye, Kaiser Roll or Onion Bun.
We all agree on our favorite deli sandwich at Charlie’s.  It is called “The Mesquite,” and is mesquite smoked turkey breast, kojak cheese, lettuce and tomato.  The sandwich is finished with a hot pepper cherry relish that makes the sandwich.  Grab one of these for a spicy, tasty Food Adventure on a bun.  It is available in the small size, priced at $3.95 or go all out and pay $6.50 for the 8 inch sub.  We would also tell you to try the  “Yipee-ki-ay Sandwich”, inspired by Bruce Willis in the movie “Die Hard.”  This sandwich is Roast Beef with a slab of Swiss cheese.  The incredible mushroom sauce topping makes this a delicious and messy sub.

Whether your sub choice is a Reuben or a Cuban, you will be back for more.  Even the pulled pork is dynamite sandwich.  Want a goal for 2013?  If you eat all of the sandwiches on the menu, you get a free Charlie’s Deli T-shirt ! We also enjoy many of the side dishes at Charlie’s, like the cole slaw, potato salad, and those wonderful pickled eggs.
Another menu item worth trying is the “Chi-Dog.” This Chicago Style, Vienna all beef wiener is loaded sport peppers, garlic pickle wdges, chopped onions, tomato, sweet relish, yellow mustard and served on a poppy seed bun.
With winter in full swing, now is a good time to enjoy the specialty soups at Charlie’s.   Regulars flock to get Chicken  Spaetzel Soup or the Wisconsin Cheese Soup.  More traditional hot soups include country potato, vegetable beef, and ham and bean.  Don’t forget about their chili!  It is meaty, old fashioned and hits the spot.  Want something hot but a little more filling?  Try their famous cabbage rolls.  The family recipe is a hit with the locals and is sure to please your taste buds.

 

This place has a ton of character.   We suggest that you dine in the back room like we did, where there is a lot of scenery among the various  items on the shelves.  Charlie’s is a great place for a Food Adventure because the deli fare is fantastic and you can browse among the German imports and other items around the store.  Charlie’s is the biggest Dayton area importer of German goods.  They have a huge selection of German Import Beers.   They even have a deal where you can make your own variety 6-pack from over 100 kinds of beer.
Where else in Dayton can you eat a freshly sliced deli sandwich in the dining area, while browsing various imported vinyl records from Germany?  Charlie’s is a place where pick up some rare boxes of German cookies, breads, and jars of hard to find items,  all while eating a tuna salad pita.   Charlie’s Deli and Catering is our kind of place.  Dayton is lucky that the Vangas family imports so many unique foodstuffs and provides great eats.  Charlie’s is big on quality, personality, and taste but is also a big part of Dayton’s soul.

 

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