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Darke County Announces First Brewery!

January 9, 2017 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Darke County’s first Brewery is set to open this summer

Big Rack Brewery is coming to Darke County this summer. Dayton Most Metro and Food Adventures have the first inside scoop of what to expect. It will be located in New Madison at the current Kennedy Vineyards Homestead and Tasting room. You may recall our full story on the winery last week (click here). Owners John and Louisa Kennedy are seeking licensing and are hopeful that the brewery will operational by June.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on BIG RACK BREWERY:

—BIG RACK BREWERY will be located at 3911 St. Rt. 722 in New Madison, Ohio in the same site as the winery tasting room

The Bar area of the Tasting Room

for Kennedy Vineyards. The site is a fully operational farm and a family homestead. It is also a vineyard, and you can see the rows of grapes as you pull into the parking lot.

—The brewery will feature 4 in-house brewed, craft beers on tap. They will have one mainstay beer, an OATMEAL STOUT (yet to be named).

—The other 3 beers will be 1 Seasonal Brew, and 2 other taps that will be revolving with either new beers or returning favorites.

— The Brewery will sell growlers and pints and will continue to sell bottles of wines, glasses of wine, and wine flights.

Owners John and Louisa Kennedy

—There is plenty of seating in the tasting room and at the bar. This building was the old corn crib for the farm. There is also a beautiful view from the patio seating overlooking the farm and vineyard.

—The Food Adventures Crew has been to the homestead a handful of times, and the family is very genuine and friendly. They make you feel right at home.

—The news is so fresh that they have not even finalized their website yet. Stay tuned for the launch of www.bigrackbrewery.com

A perfect chance for you to visit and experience the Brewery and Winery is an incredible dinner event coming this summer.

They will be hosting a Hog Roast Food Adventure Dinner on Saturday June 3rd set with acoustic music early and a band in the evening.

The event is called “WINE and SWINE.”

*** SATURDAY JUNE 3rd “WINE and SWINE” HOG ROAST at KENNEDY VINEYARD and BIG RACK BREWERY ***

TICKETS (ONLY AVAILABLE ONLINE AT THIS LINK) are $25 per person, and includes:

—One bottle of wine per person

Kennedy Vineyard in New Madison, Ohio

—Pulled Pork Hog Roast Dinner with homemade sides of Cheesey Potatoes, Cole Slaw and Baked Beans.

—Acoustic Music before and during dinner, Rock n roll Band after dinner in the barn til 9pm.

This will be a casual event, rain or shine, we will have tents and you can decide when you want to arrive, based on festivities from 2-10pm.

TIMELINE OF THE “WINE and SWINE” EVENT on SATURDAY JUNE 3rd, 2017

(come whenever you like, dinner starts 4pm)

2pm – Vineyard opens (cash bar available all day for extra purchases)
2pm – 4pm Mingle on the vineyard grounds, explore the tasting room
3pm – 5pm Acoustic Music
4pm – 6pm Hog Roast Dinner is served, all you care to eat
7-9pm – Rock Band in the barn
6pm – 10pm CASH BAR

This promises to be a blast, so please GET YOUR TICKETS NOW !

TICKETS ARE PRE-PAY ONLY – click here to buy yours (Only 200 tickets will be sold)

Comfort and Fun

The Food Adventures Crew can’t wait to try the new brews and we are very happy for the Kennedy family. We have seen the hard work they have put into the business over the past few years, and they have developed quite a following. We wish them continued success on this additional venture and suggest you visit them before and after the brewery is open. You will love this spot.

Speaking of love…. do you love the Miami Valley food scene? Then join FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking HERE. We are not food critics, we are 3 passionate foodies that love to eat We love to share our favorite local spots and more. No rules, just good food.

Please feel free to browse the photos below of the Kennedy Homestead and future site of the brewery.

Tasting Room from the outside

John tends to customers in the tasting room

Early patio days – much more furniture now and same great view

Louisa educating us on their winery

Dinner bell

Wandering the vineyard

Updated tasting room

3 generations of family

Grandma Kennedy makes sure Ragu isnt double parked or she will pistol whip him with a yellow squash

We have a bigfoot sighting

The winery will be adding a BREWERY !

Kennedy Vineyard- expanding from wine to beer too !

It is great to see this locally owned business evolving

More patio seating

Chickens on the adjacent farm

From grapes, to hops and barley – they will have it all.

Outside the tasting room

Peaceful scene of the fields adjacent to the Vineyard – where baby Kal El landed in his spaceship from Krypton in Superman 1

Plenty of patio seating

Located near Greenville and Arcanum

Casual, at home feel

View of the tasting room and barn from the road

Best Local Winery You’ve Never Heard of: Kennedy Vineyard + CONTEST

January 3, 2017 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Kennedy Vineyards in New Madison, Ohio

It is all in the family for Kennedy Vineyard, a locally owned winery that you may not have heard of, but you will never forget.
Northwest of the Miami Valley, located in New Madison, Ohio, the property has personality, warmth and a homey feel. It makes sense. The winery and tasting room are all located on the family homestead. It is a fully functioning winery and farm. Depending on where you live in Dayton, the trip could take from between 20 to 45 minutes. It is a perfect date night, or destination Food Adventure. It feels like a weekend escape, when you have really just traveled to the next county.

Time to explore……

Louisa and John Kennedy

HERE’S THE SKINNY on KENNEDY VINEYARD:

— Three generations live on the homestead, from grandma to the grandaughter. All contribute to the working farm. You may see some chickens and crops if you keep your eyes peeled. Parts of the farm have been turned into the winery. The tasting room is the old corn crib. You may even get a welcome from the family’s young daughter, who is very sweet.

— John and Louisa Kennedy are the owners of the winery. They have poured a lot of dedication and hard work into making the place a comfortable and delicious experience. It is a welcoming spot and place that every Daytonian should visit.

Grapes on the vine

— Twelve years ago, John’s mom started planting the grapes. John, who grew up in the home, took over production and in 2014, the tasting room was opened.

—The Winery address is 3911 State Route 722, New Madison, Ohio. It is just a few miles off of an exit on I-70 West not far from Greenville/Arcanum.

—Kennedy Vineyard’s philosophy is to make the wines in small batches. This keeps the wines young, and helps preserve the fruity flavors. Many of the bottle’s labels are artwork from friends, family and customers. Some are drawn from photos taken at the winery by friends or family.

—The winery hopes to be brewing beer too by summer 2017.

A taste of “Twisted Oak”

— Limited Menu HERE offering flatbread pizzas, meat and cheese trays from local farms. The cheeses are from J’s Country Store and the meats are from Winner’s meats.

— Tasting Room Hours: Thurs 6pm-9pm, Fri 4pm-9pm, Sat. 2pm -10pm

— Wine Prices are as follows:

****** Bottles of Wine – $10-$15, depending on what style you order.

****** Wine Flights: 7, one ounce pours for $5 or build your own wine flights for $1 per pour

Inside the tasting room

****** Glasses of Wine: $5 – $8.50 depending on the wine

They have an assorted meat and cheese plates that hit the spot, while tasting wines. They sometimes offer flatbreads and soups as well. But the main event is the wine, and we have the breakdown of all the wines you don’t want to miss.

*NOTE* Dear Sophisticated wine drinkers, the selection of wines is not very dry, so don’t expect that. You can expect some semi-dry and fruity wines, many of them sweet as well. Keep an open mind, as they are a growing establishment using Ohio grapes. You won’t find a dry, dark merlot here….. yet.

MUST DRINKS at KENNEDY VINEYARD:

Meat and Cheese plate

TWISTED OAK: One of their dry, red wines. The wine is stored in oak barrels for flavor. The result is traces of coffee and rich, dark chocolate. The artwork on the label is truly unique.

LONE CEDAR RED: A dry wine made with De Chaunac Grapes, which is a hybrid of a French-American grape project in the 1860’s. The grape is vibrant in Canada, New York, Ohio and Michigan. This red wine won the bronze medal at the 2015 Finger Lakes International wine competition. Named for a lone

A view of the vineyard

cedar tree that survived on the farm.

DARKE KNIGHT: One of the Big Ragu’s favorite wines. It has black cherry and blackberry undertones. The vineyard describes it as “a full bodied, red wine.” A little too sweet for Hungry Jax tastes, this was a 2015 Finger Lakes International Wine Fest Silver Medal winner.

The youngest Kennedy on site showing off some fall squash harvest

RED NECK GIRL: The #1 selling wine at the Kennedy Vineyard. Is it the name or the soft and sweet taste. This wine dances with fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry. Refreshingly delicious, this wine was also a Silver Medal winner at the 2015 Finger Lakes International wine fest

EMERICK SKY: Semi Dry crisp white wine, with refreshing citrus flavors. Artwork on label is from a photo taken of the sky above Emerick Street.

RIESLING: The Big Ragu also pegs this as his other favorite. A sweet, refreshing taste , almost like champagne. Very light, white almost clear wine. The flavor is so nice and all day drinkable. The Big Ragu drank this one so fast, John Kennedy looked at him and said “You’re not much of a sipper are you?”

Delicious wines

LOVE AT FIRST WHITE: A signature white wine from Kennedy Vineyard. Big Ragu loves this one as well. Cold, refreshing and sweet. Fall in love with the sweetness and the bold flavors of the Niagara Grape.

RED NECK LOVE: This is an invention of the staff. It is actually a glass of half “Red Neck Girl” and half “Love at First White.” The result is a popular sweet blush. This one is a lot of fun and in the spirit of a Food Adventure.

BLACKBERRY WINE: Very fruity flavors abide in this one. A little deep, yet subtle, it is a great sipping wine. This wine is the 2nd most popular wine at Kennedy Vineyard.

Making “Red Neck Love”

RESILIENT: Their blush wine. Pink in color, refreshing and semi-sweet wine. $1 off all bottle sales goes to the Epilepsy Foundation

And now we turn to ones that are sold out until next year….

MUST DRINKS THAT ARE “OUT OF STOCK” UNTIL NEXT HARVEST:

Patio area

KV SUNSET: A dry, red wine, this is their Estate Reserve wine. This means the grapes were grown on premises and processed from vine, to crush to bottle at the winery. There were limited quantities of this one due to a limited quantities of a special “Chambourcin Grape” grown at the vineyard. It is a French-American Hybrid grape, and rare at Ohio wineries. KV Sunset is also the winery’s dryest wine. This is their rarest bottle of wine, and since they only brew a limited small batch, it goes quickly. Maybe you will get a taste in 2017. This is their dryest wine on the menu.

Grandma Kennedy talks with the Big Ragu

CHARDONNAY: This popular, dry white wine has a subtle oak taste. It is light tasting and has hints of citrus flavor. They are looking to get this favorite back in stock, real soon.

TRAMINETTE: A semi-dry white wine, this is a well balanced product. There are tastes of apple and pears, with a spicy end and aftertaste.

We have been to Kennedy Vineyard a four times now with friends, and this place has stolen our heart. It is a great story about a charming local

Darke Night wine – not Batman, but Darke County

family, who are delivering a fun product. Make sure you take the time to stop by this vineyard.

Now, we have an announcement…………..

*** SUMMER FOOD ADVENTURE “WINE AND SWINE.” at KENNEDY VINEYARDS SAT JUNE 3rd, 2pm-10pm ***

We are having a Food Adventure dinner event at Kennedy Vineyards for next year.

We are hosting at a 200 person limit, hog roast and barn party called “WINE AND SWINE.”

$25 per person, get your tickets at this link

Blackberry Wine

Attendees will each get a bottle of wine and a full Pork BBQ dinner.

SATURDAY JUNE 3rd, 2017 SCHEDULE:
2pm-4pm CASH BAR and Mingle on the vineyard grounds,
3pm-5pm Acoustic Music
4pm – 6pm Hog Roast Dinner to include:
1 bottle of wine per person. Pulled Pork, homemade BBQ Sauce, Homemade Slaw, homemade Cheesey Potatoes, homemade Baked Beans
7-9pm Rock Band
6pm – 10pm CASH BAR

This promises to be a blast, so please GET YOUR TICKETS NOW !

LET’S GET SOME EARLY BUZZ STARTED… pun intended

THE BIG RAGU, CHEF HOUSE and HUNGRY JAX have decided to give away 2 tickets to this event to kick off the new year !!

That is a $50 value – all you have to do is comment below and one person will be chosen at random next week to win 2 tickets to JUNE 3rds WINE AND SWINE event !!!

Check out more photos of the vineyard below.

Giving away 2 tickets to the WINE and SWINE Food Adventure event – comment below

Chickens on the farm

Big Ragu sips wine and ponders the year

Ohio Grapes

Vineyard

More Vineyard

Love at First White

Welcome to Kenney Vineyard

John and Louisa

A working farm

Tasting all the good stuff

Used corks

Fall at the Vineyard

Twisted Oak

At home with ” Apple of My Eye”

Sipping at home

The homestead

Ragu cooks with the wine

Kennedy Vineyard – a secret you now know about

Fall dried up

Autumn on the farm

Winery decor

Beautiful label

Lone Cedar Red

Sipping Emerick Sky

Scallops with wine

Grapes

Warm inviting and fall colors

2016: The Year in Dayton Food

December 28, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Tilapia over Rice at Archer’s Kettering

The Dayton food world had comers and goers in the year 2016. Lots of eateries opened and some closed. We said goodbye to some old favorites and said hello to some new and exciting cuisine.

Today, Food Adventures looks back on the year in review. If you are a foodie, check out our list below. You will see a lot of new places in the Miami Valley that will spark your interest!

Get a fork, spoon and your nostalgia caps on as we explore the “The Year in Food.”

*****RESTAURANTS THAT OPENED in 2016*****

ARCHERS TAVERN, KETTERING: Taking a successful restaurant philosophy and expanding it to Kettering has seemed to work out well

Bean and chicken Arepas from “Arepas and Co.”

for the owners of Archer’s. If the first couple of months are any indication, look for continued success at this location on Dorothy Lane in the old Tumbleweed location.

AREPAS and CO. – DOWNTOWN: This Columbian restaurant opened it’s 3rd location in old Olive Dive spot. Besides a strong cultural menu, they offer catering to parties big and small. Delicious, fresh and food choices you won’t find anywhere else.

BAR 145: This restaurant chain is open at Austin Landing. It is known for burgers, lots of beers on tap and a section of the restaurant that holds vintage 80’s arcade games and live music on the weekends. Definitely a fun place to check out.

Golden Graham Donuts from Bear Creek Donuts

BAR LOUIE: Austin Landing landed this chain in 2016. A slightly more casual version of the one at the Greene, you can expect the same happy hour and burger specials. And try the totchos – yes, tater tots in your nachos…

BASIL’S ON MARKET: North Patterson Blvd is the expansion location for this 2nd restaurant opening (the original one is still in business in Troy). Incredible food photos on their Facebook page scream “You gotta come eat here.” They have some amazing looking food and a huge patio overlooking the water.

BEAR CREEK DONUTS: Inventive, locally owned donut shop in Miamisburg that raises the bar on toppings. One trip to this place, and you will be hooked. Golden Grahams on Donuts? Yeah , they got that.

Margherita Flatbread Pizza from BJ’s Taphouse

BIBIBOP ASIAN GRILL: This Columbus chain finally lands in Dayton near U.D. and has plans for a couple more to come. The Korean inspired meals start with steamed rice, topped with your choice of grilled meats or tofu and a mix of fresh vegetables and Asian sauces.

BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE, FAIRFIELD COMMONS: That craft beer brewing chain with the great appetizers, opens up another mammoth eatery near Fairfield Commons mall. The menu is solid from top to bottom.

BLUE NOTE BISTRO and LOUNGE: New jazz hall and restaurant on 23 E. Central Ave in Miamisburg, which offers Sunday brunch. Over the summer, they expanded dining and music hours. Their Facebook page usually details the happenings.

The Monte Cristo Sandwich from Cheddars – Yes, it is deep fried

BRAVO, FAIRFIELD COMMONS: The familiar Italian chain, expands in the Beavercreek/Fairborn area. Must eats are the ravioli, and of course we love to dip the bread in that olive oil mixture, all night long.

CARMELLA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN: Just opened in the old Murphy’s Pub location on Wilmington Pike. Their menu features Italian foods and sandwiches.

CHEDDAR’S SCRATCH KITCHEN: Chain out of Irving, Texas, with dozens of locations reaching up into New York. Big portions and a huge menu with semi-reasonable prices. Think TGI Fridays on steroids or a casual version of Cheesecake Factory (with no cheesecakes.) The new popular place at The Cornerstone development on Feedwire Rd. Warning: Long waiting list during peak times.

The Chicken and Steak Fajitas from Chuy’s

CHUY’S, FAIRFIELD COMMONS: This Mexican chain is popping up stores quickly and the newest one is a location near the Fairfield Commons Mall. Great guacamole dip starts out each meal right. Try the margaritas and the Elvis Presley Memorial Combo of Enchiladas.

CRAFTED and CURED: Two local men started this in Spring, 2016. The concept is a cured meat shop, with over 60 craft beers on tap, featuring ales, stouts, ciders, sours and meads. Of course the menu will feature rare meats and cheeses. Read Chef House’s scoop HERE on her MostMetro article. And they’ve just announced that 3 more food businesses will be joining them in 2017- a deli- Local Hero Butchery & Fare, a seafood option- Jack Lukey’s Oyster Saloon & Caviar Bar and Mediterranean goodies from Glasz Bleu Oven.

Chef House with a brew at “Crafted and Cured”

D20: A Bar With Characters- Board games and brews on draft are the hallmark for this new place in the shopping center adjacent to the Whipp Rd Kroger. Local owners Andrew Sparks and Christine Cooper have come up with the concept, and the drinking and dining area look inviting. The D20 reference is a slang name for a Dungeon’s and Dragon’s 20 sided dice.

DARK HORSE TAVERN (closed in July -reopened in Nov.): They abruptly closed in July 2016, but the love of this place caused a deal to transfer the ownership and keep the menu and music alive. Known for bands and BBQ, it is a great watering hole, with a huge bar. Opened back up in November, Manager Nikky Vontz is getting this place running right!

DON PATRON MEXICAN GRILL of FAIRBORN: They have 2 Ohio locations, the latest being on 2632 Colonel Glenn Highway. Specialties include Carnitas, Burritos, Fajitas and of course, Tacos. They even have wings.

DOUBLE D’S FIT-Q MEAL PREP: Waynesville’s BBQ boys have opened a brick and mortar place in downtown Lebanon.

Double D’s BBQ on a Cornbread Waffle

Owners Dan Velemirov and Dustin Seyersdahl are known for some great traditional BBQ. They also have a signature sweet cornbread waffle and BBQ hot shot.

DOUBLEDAYS, SPRINGBORO: One of Dayton’s most popular locally owned restaurants, expanded to another location in front of the Dorothy Lane Market Springboro in the old Sammy’s El Pueblo building. New location, but the same old favorites remain. If you have not tried their homemade soups, you are in for a treat. They also showcase an extensive sandwich, burger and dinner platter menu.

Doubleday’s Greek Chicken Soup- now in Springboro too

FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS: A new fast food chain hits Dayton. It is a cross between Steak and Shake and Culver’s. Quick smashed burgers on the grill, hot dogs and custard sundaes are the signature of this quick bite. Drive thru or dine in, and you will enjoy this throwback meal.

GYRO DELIGHT: Some good buzz is going about this new gyro shop on Wilmington Pike. They have familiar treats like Shish kabobs, Greek fries, chicken gyros and traditional gyros. They also carry exotic Mediterranean food like baklava, shawarma, moussaka and dolmades.

JOHN ANTHONY’S SOUTHERN CUISINE: This spot opened

A Double Cheeseburger from Freddy’s Steakburgers and Custard

in summer 2016 on Salem Ave. They feature salads, fried catfish, collard greens, fried chicken & waffles. Soul food at it’s finest, even down to the fried okra.

KUPBOP: The latest quick eatery on Woodman Dr. highlights the lighter, healthier side of Korean cuisine. The “Create Your Own” seems to be the way to go. This is the Korean version of Chipotle.

MARILYN’S GRILL: This restaurant has been serving Soul food on North Main since January. Daily specials like Pork Chops, and Lemon Pepper Wings are crowd pleasers. Other items like chicken and dumplings, or Philly Chicken subs look unreal.

OinkadoodleMoo is back in Miamisburg

MIKE’S NASHVILLE HOT: The new “go to ” place for Southern fried chicken at Austin Landing. Hand breaded chicken in strips, or whole pieces, spicy or not. They also have a slew of sides and a perch option, with a 2nd location coming to Centerville on 48.

MURRAY’S PUB: Opened in January, 2016, then in December, 2016 announced it would be transitioning into the 937 Grill and Taproom. Two new owners are taking over. Look for an expanding bar menu and continued drink specials.

Panda Express in Bellbrook. The only Chinese Drive Thru, has cheese wontons

OINK-A-DOODLE-MOO: Miamisburg is the new location for this place, formerly in Kettering. Great BBQ, sauces and sides are the tradition here. Located at 40 N Main St in Miamisburg, they have a full catering menu too.

OLD BAG OF NAILS PUB: Cross Pointe’s latest restaurant is one of a group of Columbus owned eateries. They have an extensive menu of burgers and sandwiches, and many seafood entrees like Scallops, Blackened Tuna Steak and Fried Clams. A nice soup and dessert offering round out a large menu of options.

Panera in Huber Heights is now serving delicious onion soups.

OLD SCRATCH PIZZA and BEER: The word is out about this new pizza place, and the feedback has been great. They have red sauce options, white sauce options,salads, sandwiches and a full craft beer list. Create your own pizza, or choose from the dozen options they have. Located at 812 South Patterson Blvd. there’s even a great private room for parties or meetings.

PANDA EXPRESS: Dayton’s only “drive thru Chinese restaurant” is here. This eatery is owned out of California with sites all over the USA including mall courts. Menu choices are simple and traditional. Choose from chicken or shrimp in sweet sauces or fried.

Pastrami Sandwich from Primanti Brothers, a chain out of Pittsburgh

PANERA BREAD, HUBER HEIGHTS: The familiar chain with the bread bowl soups, pastries and more. Huber Heights, you too now, can enjoy the fun.

PHILLY PRETZEL FACTORY: Centerville just held a ribbon cutting at this location on S. Main Street near Lock 27. Big, Soft Pretzels are the love here, with various toppings and dips. Get ready to make and bring back some memories with your first bites.

PIZZA FIRE: The fresh toppings pizza place where you run down the line and top it yourself. The new location is on 4325 Far Hills Ave in Kettering.

PRIMANTI BROTHERS: The famous Pittsburgh chain is now in Dayton too, near the Fairfield Commons mall. Overstuffed pastrami sandwiches, reubens, and are all the rage here. Are they as good as the original? You be the judge.

Rapid Fired Pizzas are popping up all over. They have a Blueberry Dessert Pizza !

RAPID FIRED PIZZA (4 new locations): Fairborn, Centerville, Bellbrook and Huber Heights, locations are all news and have all been thriving and Kettering opensthis Friday with FREE pizza. Quick Pizzas and Quick huge salads for about $7.95. With topping choices like ricotta cheese and sun dried tomatoes, what’s not to like?

SKY ASIAN CUISINE: The upscale Sushi restaurant that took over the struggling location at the corner of Wilmington Pike and Woodman’s fork in the road. All the discussions we have heard about this place have been very positive.

SMITH’S BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT: On the Great Miami River, in Troy, Ohio, this upscale dinner place specializes in Seafood and Steak. A fun, elegant setting, and the owners are lifelong locals who seem to really care about the food quality.

Loose Meat Sandwich from Spent Grain Grill. New inside Warped Wing 2016

SPENT GRAIN GRILL: Inside Warped Wing Brewery, this literal hole in the wall place serves tremendous amounts of food to a busy, thirsty brew crowd. From loose meat sandwiches to the tater tots, we are fans of this new place. Spent Grain literally uses the waste from the brewing process to make pizza dough and bread for their burger and sandwich buns. Good idea, and it fills a need for tasty food while drinking locally brewed beer.

STAGECOACH CAFE: New Carlisle has a quaint new eatery that is turning heads. With 35 facebook reviews and all of them 5 stars, it is time to give credit where due. Specials like Lasagna and Chicken and Noodles, point to a place with comfort food. There saying is “Stop in and try the homemade difference.” It looks like it is time for a a Food Adventure.

TABLE 33: With the saying “grow, share, eat,” they are blazing a unique trail in the breakfast food jungle. They use locally sourced products and have faith based philosophy of turning no hungry person away. Located at 130 West 2nd Street, they offer weekend brunches as well.

James Nunez and his wife have a restaurant now on West Third Street.

TABLE of CONTENTS CAFE: Xenia area cafe owned by Cassaundra Lee. It is actually inside the Blue Jacket Bookstore. They have a daily menu with coups made from scratch. Hand baked items are available for dine-in or takeout.

TEXAS BEEF and CATTLE CO.: Originally know for festivals, these caterers now have a restaurant where patrons can own a share of the establishment. Being an owner has its privileges such as price breaks and more. Owner James Nunez and his family make some of the most succulent beef brisket we have ever tried. Their BBQ sauces and rubs are amazing. Get to 1105 W 3rd St, these people know what they are doing.

TOKYO JAPANESE GRILL & SUSHI: New full service sushi restaurant with hibachi and Japanese soup choices as well. Located across the street from the Cornerstone development on Feedwire Rd, it has been open since April, 2016. Menu offers deals on larger pieces of sushi orders.

VICTOR’S TACO SHOP: Recently opened at 1438 Keowee Street, there is also a location at 1002 N. Broad St. in Fairborn. This colorful drive thru specializes in Tacos, Rolled Tacos, Quesadillas and Todstadas.

Zombie Dogz: now on Brown Street Serving “Juan of the Dead” and others

THE WANDERING GRIFFIN: The newest Brewery and watering hole has a unique design. They have a couple bars and a coffee bar called Wanderlust. The menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner is getting great reviews. You may recall this place used to house Quaker Steak and Lube near Wright State’s Campus, just off Colonel Glenn Highway.

THE WRIGHT PLACE: Completely remodeled restaurant inside the Holiday Inn, across from Wright State. This eatery looks to pull guests in with historic decor and great food. Using local foods and a “chef’s garden,” Chef Justin White looks to kick things up a notch on his menu.

ZOMBIE DOGZ: Dayton’s most popular food truck has a brick and mortar location on Brown St. in the old Shish Wraps storefront. David and Lee VanArtsdalen have really pushed the envelope over the years, and now you can have all of your favorite dogz – check out their menu here. How can anybody not love this fun place?

“Street Style Gyros” are must eats at the Greek Street Food Truck

*****NEW FOOD TRUCKS IN 2016*****
GREEK STREET FOOD TRUCK: Owner Chris Spirtos has taken his street Gyro recipes to the Dayton streets with great success. They have one of the more grueling schedule of appearances, and it has led to many being exposed to their great foods. Our faves are the baklava, spanakopita and “Chicken Gyros, Street Style”

LATIN AREPAS FOOD TRUCK: A family operated food truck, that also offers catering. The menu includes classic Venezuelan,Colombian, Latin American, and Tropical cuisine. Menu items include Arepas, Tacos, & Empanadas. They are Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly, with Gluten free choices.

MENEHUNE TIKI BUS: This is the only double decker food truck in Dayton, and it is a stunning sight. Although dogged by a couple of unfortunate mechanical issues and a wreck, they are back and bringing their Hawaiian and South Pacific food to the Miami Valley masses. The Kalua Pork Grilled Cheese sandwich is a “must eat.”

Menehune Tiki Bus is a two story Food Truck

SON OF A BISCUIT: Dayton’s Breakfast Food Truck featuring Biscuit and English Muffin Sandwiches. Brad Manning, the owner prides himself on quality ingredients so he only serves Landes Fresh Meats from an old fashioned farm market in Clayton that specializes in Farm-Harvested Beef & Pork. This Food Truck makes it easy to want to “rise and shine.”

And now … sadly, some of our favorite Food Adventure spots closed this year as well…

We give a tip of the hat to those we will miss.

*****RESTAURANTS THAT CLOSED in 2016*****

Bad Dog, Nice Taco is missed !

BAD DOG, NICE TACO: Our own Chef LeeAnne House and Brian Johnson teamed to bring you a hot dog and nacho cart that spoiled us with toppings from feta to freshly made housemade sauces. Currently Chef House is in Chicago, and when we asked about a re-opening possibility for Bad Dog, she said “never say never.” Stay Tuned.

THE BARNSIDER: After more than 41 years, the Barnsider restaurant served its last meal in May 2016. Known for prime rib and shrimp dinners, you can still buy their cocktail sauce at local grocers and Foremost Seafood.

No more Bob Evans French Toast on Harshman Rd

BOB EVAN’S: The location on Harshman Road, near Stebbins High School closed in 2016. We hope the students of Stebbins are still able to get biscuits, gravy and pancakes at acceptable intervals.

BOSTON’S BISTRO: July 2016 marked a historic closing. After 35 years of business, owner Dave Boston closed his establishment on N. Main Street. Much of his business has been at the old Sports Page location. It was a building his father built. Boston’s was known for being the first place to sell multiple craft beers in the Dayton area. He started selling craft beers in the 1970’s. Dave said he would reopen at another site if the deal was right.

David Boston, in his now closed pub

CORLEONE’S CENTERVILLE: This spinoff pizza joint was the 2nd location for Corleone’s, tucked into a shopping center on 725 behind Fricker’s. It never quite took off, even though they had some tremendous pizza and pasta options. Thankfully the Patterson Rd. location is still open.

DESIGNER DOGS: It opened in January, 2016 inside the Fairfield Commons mall, and closed in September. Inventive toppings on the hot dogs included shout outs to various cities and states. The owners promise a return in some fashion, noting a deal in the works to mass produce their dogs. Hopefully we see them again real soon.

Corleone’s in Centerville closed. We miss the pasta dishes .

DON PABLO’S, FAIRFIELD COMMONS: They were one of the first restaurants to open around the Fairfield Mall. Decades later, they would close in 2016 citing lack of business. We are sad to see them go as their drinks and chips with salsa were some of the best around town.

DT’s KITCHEN CARRYOUT: They opened in March and closed in December, 2016. The menu was a broad diner menu from Quesadillas to Fried Shrimp Dinners. We hate to see locally owned restaurants close, especially when the customer reviews looked so good.

Inside Sushi Cafe one last time

ECLIPSE COFFEE and TEA: Locally owned coffee shop located on Wilmington Pike between LaRosa’s and Frisch’s. Maybe the location was tough, because it looks like the product was superior. They carried quality coffees and teas out of Seven Hills, Ohio.

KAI SUSHI CAFE: One of Dayton’s first sushi restaurants. The crowds had dwindled over the years with increased competition. An empty parking lot seemed the norm the last few months, and after a couple of transfers of ownership and a legal dispute, the restaurant could not continue to operate. We hope this old Howard Johnson building on Byers Rd. gets a new tenant soon.

KRISPY KREME: January, 2016 was the closing date for cult favorite. The national donut franchise could not keep up with local

No more “Hot Fresh Now” light. Damn you Krispy Kreme !

favorites. Although it will close, regional bakeries will still be pumping Krispy Kreme product into various gas station convenient stores around town.

LAROSA’S, HUBER HEIGHTS: Buddy LaRosa decided to pack this one in during 2016. The Cincinnati based company could not get the business they wanted to stay open. But don’t worry although the 7375 Old Troy Pike location is closed, there are others around Dayton and of course Wayne students can still get slices at King’s Island.

LaRosas closes in Huber Heights – no more all you can eat spaghetti

LOGAN’S ROADHOUSE, FAIRFIELD COMMONS MALL: A surprise to many, corporate cited high rent and low income for the closing. If you people would have just not thrown your damn peanut shells on the floor.

MAX n ERMA’S SPRINGBORO: Located at 710 Gardener Rd, off of State Route 741, this restaurant closed in January, 2016. We love Max n Erma’s. We love this regional chain and concept from the Garbage Burger to the drinks. Hopefully another one will open in town, soon.

Chopped Steak and Sweet Potato from Logan’s Roadhouse

MCKENNA’S GRILL: This restaurant on Presidential Drive in Fairborn, inside the Holiday Inn, closed to make way for “The Wright Place.”

MURPHY’S IRISH PUB: This locally owned restaurant closed in late 2016 and was replaced by Carmella’s Italian Kitchen. It’s sister restaurant Paddy’s in Centerville remains open.

OSAKA SUSHI and BUFFET: Dayton’s first conveyor belt sushi restaurant, was an upscale buffet that just never

Sangria at Max n Ermas

caught on. There was a strong regular customers of Asian descent, but the big crowds were few, forcing them to close. The owner has promised to renegotiate the rent and reopen as a hibachi restaurant much like Sake or Benihana.

Osaka Sushi Buffet and Hibachi has closed on Kingsridge

QDOBA, BROWN STREET: This eatery closed July 2016. It was located in the heart of the busy restaurant district across from University of Dayton.

SHISH WRAPS: Simon Abboud owned this health conscious restaurant that turned Mediterranean street food into some wonderful creations. We were very sad to see this place on Brown Street go. Their hummus, tabouleh and sauces were all made from scratch. Their shish wraps always left us “shish faced.”

SUSHI CLUB: February, 2016 marked the end for this “all you can eat” made to order sushi place on Alex Rd. We had hit this spot many times and always had a good meal. Maybe the food costs did them in, but they never could seem to capture the big crowds although they had a regular following. We were surprised it closed so quickly and really miss the food.

Fajita Rancher Bowl from Qdoba

TASTY MEASURES CAFE: Although they made their own deli meats using Sous Vide style cooking methods, the business crowds were not enough to stay open. Unfortunately this locally owned cafe on Jefferson Street closed in June, 2016.

UNCLE SUNNY’S HOMESTYLE CAJUN FISH & CHICKEN: A family owned spot on 131 Cincinnati Ave in Xenia, it was all about the fried fish and chicken. The reviews were great, and although they originally were going to be a 24 hour restaurant, that never came to fruition. The owners are hinting at another project in the works, so stay tuned.

A Shish Wrap

That does it for the movers and shakers of this year. Do you have a comment about any of the places that have closed or opened? Please leave your thoughts below.

Do you have any predictions for 2017 ?

We look forward to more Food Adventures in 2017. If you would like more on the Dayton food scene, follow us on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all, and to all a good bite!

Sushi Club – all you want sushi closed on Alex Rd.

Side of Lobster at Logan’s Roadhouse – CLOSED by Fairfield Commons Mall

Archers Kettering is HERE !

Bad Dog Nice Taco’s Breakfast Omelette taco

Chuy’s Elvis Enchiladas – a tribute to the King

Zombie Dogz – DEAD DIXIE dog

A Hot Dog from Freddy’s Steakburgers & Frozen Custard

Panda Express – Honey shrimp and General Tsao Chicken

Rapid Fired Pizza has lots of sauces !

Spent Grain’s cheesey gravy tots – inside Warped Wing

End of an Era – Boston’s Closes

All you can eat Sushi Club closes on Alex Rd. in 2016

The Greek Street Food truck cooking spinikopita

Kai Sushi Cafe – a last sushi roll

The Pork Grilled Cheese from Menetune Tiki bus – food truck

“Santa, We’ve Been Naughty with Food”

December 20, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Has this face been nice?

Dear Santa,

“You see us when we are sleeping, and know when we’re awake. /We know we better be good, but some shortcuts we just had to take.”

The Food Adventures Crew admits it. We made the naughty list. Today we come clean about our secret shortcuts we use from time to time while in our kitchens.

THE BIG RAGU HAS BEEN NAUGHTY:
The Big Ragu has a secret. It is a blemish on his Food Adventure career… Yes it is true, sometimes he fakes it. Sometimes, when in a pinch and he needs some marinara sauce, he turns to a locally jarred sauce. It is one of the only ones

The Big Ragu gets help on occasion

he trusts. Mamma DiSalvo’s Marinara Sauce has saved him in many a tight spots. From parties, to last minute luncheons, it has saved him from Manicotti to Mostaccioli. When faced with hours and hours of cooking down a home made spaghetti sauce, sometimes he gets a little help from Mamma! The sauce is the closest thing to The Big Ragu’s family recipe that he has tasted in a jar. Ahh and the stress it saves. Seriously, Foodies out there, this is the best jarred sauce in the WORLD. Honorable mention to 2 other sauces: Schiavione’s and Zappia’s, both made locally! I’m sorry Santa, shhhhhh no one knows!

HUNGRY JAX HAS BEEN NAUGHTY:
Jax has a secret. Yes, this impeccable home cook has a naughty short cut. Not even her Elf on a Shelf knows about this one. Her bad Food Adventure act? Sometimes she uses American cheese in my mac and cheese. To top it off, she uses

Jax Mac n Cheese

the Boar’s Head Sharp American Cheese instead of Kraft. (This is actually a great tip for you cooks out there who love a rich Mac n Cheese. Hint #2 add maple sausage crumbles into your mac n cheese.) Ahem .. Dear Santa, I am sorry I have been bad, and if you think I deserve coal in my stocking, I will use it for summer cookouts.

Adopt puppies like me through Miami Valley Pit Crew

CHEF HOUSE HAS BEEN NICE:
Dear Santa, I have been nice. I would never do anything like those culinary shortcuts, as you know. If you need a wooden spoon to spank the other two, you can borrow one of mine. Now to reiterate my Christmas list, let’s go over it again shall we Santa? To start with, I want a HUGE de-stemming machine, something that can really breakdown the peppers for my sauces. Also, an endless supply of empty glass bottles would be nice. And a cleaver, remember? A BIG cleaver. One last thing… how about one more little sweet puppy from the Miami Valley Pit Crew, who rescues local dogs? (Miami Valley Pit Crew is a great organization that has helped place dozens of dogs into loving homes. Locally owned, it is a great Dayton area charity to support this holiday season). That’s all, Santa. (Here is a tip though… the frozen gnocchi at Trader Joe’s is a great product if you don’t have time to make your gnocchi from scratch).

Have you been naughty or nice this year? Do you have any shortcut culinary confessions you want to share below?

Please comment and tell us about your naughty Food Adventures!

From all of us at Food Adventures, we with you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a very prosperous New Year.

Have you been naughty ?

Chef House needs some pepper peelers, Santa !

Big Ragu uses Mamma DiSalvos Jarred sauce when he doesnt have enough time for his own sauce

Chef House has been nice – she wants some more cutlery, Santa

Jax uses Boars Head instead of Kraft for her Mac n Cheese

Jax is a whiz in the DLM Culinary Center

Chef House at a Spicy Olive Cooking Class

Mac N cheese with Maple Sausage – Hungry Jax made it

More empty bottles please !

When it is gonna take hours and you got minutes.. Ragu fakes it

Manicotti from Ragus Kitchen – he didnt use DiSalvos Sauce this time

Kitchen Perfection

A scoop of Hungry Jax Mac N Chese

Dear Santa – maybe one more play pal for these guys?

Dear Santa – a pepper processor would be great, thanks !

Hello .. my name is Big Ragu and this is my manicotti

Sometimes Ragu is nice …

Maui Mae’s Bakery, Offering Tastes of Paradise

December 13, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Owner Anna Borchers (right) on Living Dayton TV

Anna Borchers may be new to Dayton, Ohio, but she is an old pro at baking. Our Food Adventure Crew is excited to introduce you to the owner of Maui Mae’s Bakery and tell Anna’s story.

Have you ever tasted paradise? Look no further. We are in love with her chocolates, pralines and macadamia nuts. If you like to give locally made gifts, she might have just what you are looking for this holiday season. Get ready to learn about one of the “up and coming” businesses in the Miami Valley.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on MAUI MAE’S BAKERY:

Raw Chocolate and Macadamia Nuts

—Maui Mae’s began in, as you would guess, in Maui, Hawaii in 2011. Anna had her first child and realized she didn’t want to go back to work. From there, a business was born.

—Anna comes from a family of natural cooks. Her mother made everything from scratch and was an excellent baker. Baking runs in this family! Not only Anna’s mother, but her great grandmother on her father’s side (whose name was Mae) and all three of her great grandmother’s daughters were great bakers as well. Of course Anna’s children already like to bake with her and be official taste testers. Her husband is a Dayton native and Chaminade Julienne graduate. It is definitely a family business.

Maui Mae’s Logo

— When Maui Mae’s was in Hawaii, the baking first started in a friend’s restaurant at night while the restaurant was closed. Anna made cookies, breads, torts, brownies and much more. Now in Dayton, she focuses on Hawaiian pralines, raw coconut chocolates (they melt in your fingers and are so amazing) along with Hawaiian grown macadamia nuts.

— The company logo is Anna’s daughter, hula dancing.

WHERE TO FIND MAUI MAE’S “MUST EATS”:

You can find her products in quite a few local stores: Arrow Wine on Far Hills, all three Dorothy Lane Markets, the Centerville Whole Foods and both Jungle Jim’s.

Hawaiian Pralines

— Maui Mae’s phone number for special orders is (808) 268-8021 or mauimaes@gmail.com

—If you want to meet Anna Borchers in person, come check out one of the many events she sells at. She will be at the Night Market on December 16^th. This market is held at the Yellow Cab Building at 700 E. 4th street from 5pm-10pm. The Night Market features free entry, lots of local vendors and local beer on tap.

Maui Mae’s Bakery has some delicious options

—You can also catch her at the Oakwood Farmers Market holiday event on December 11^th from 11am-5pm at 1947 Far Hills Ave.

—Throughout the year she frequents the 3^rd on 3^rd, and The Grandview Farmers Market. She also does the Cyclops Festival in Yellow Springs, Dayton Most Metro’s Sweet Treats Festival, and the Chocolate Festival. She is a busy lady!

MORE ABOUT MAUI MAE’S OWNER, ANNA BORCHERS:

Chef House took some time to ask Anna a few of our favorite questions, of course many about food.

Macadamia Nuts, in fresh from Hawaii

Q1 – What is Anna’s favorite food and dessert?

***Eggplant Parmesan and chocolate cake.

Q2 – Anna, do you cook at home regularly, and if so what is your favorite cuisine?

***Yes, she loves to cook at home, loves to cook dinner for the family and her fave cuisine is Italian.

Santa gives Maui Mae’s a thumbs up for Christmas Gifts !

Q3 – Can Maui Mae’s do special orders for holiday parties and gifts?

***Yes! She has a variety of trays available and Christmas tins. She will even deliver orders over $30.

Q4 – Do you have any local collaborations?

***Yes! She buys her cocoa from Fairly Simple, uses Twisted River Coffee and is hoping to use Chef JC’s Hawaiian vanilla very soon.

Food Adventures cannot stress enough, our fondness for the sweet tastes of Maui Mae’s Bakery, and charming nature of the owner, Anna.

Beer Pralines !

Be the hit of this year’s Christmas, and spread the love from this local business. Hurry and place your orders at (808) 268-8021 to ensure you have your piece of paradise, in time for the Holiday Season.

Please browse the photos below for more photos of Maui Mae’s goodies. Try not to drool all over the computer. These one of a kind, mouth watering creations will do that to you. Make sure you get to taste this stuff. It is a true, local Food Adventure !

Are you a foodie with love for local restaurants? Then join the 7,000 Dayton area foodies on Food Adventure’s Facebook Page CLICK HERE.

A perfect Christmas Gift – GIVE LOCAL !!

Raw Chocolate with Macadamia nuts

Special Creations form Maui Mae’s

More Macadamia Nuts over Raw Chocolate

Anna and her family all participate in the business

Ariake Sushi Event Announced for Jan. 16th

December 1, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The Dayton Roll

All You Can Eat Premium Sushi Rolls?? YES !! Sushi Lovers… unite !!

Food Adventures has done it again.

We have partnered with Ariake Sushi to host a ONE NIGHT ONLY, all you want sushi event on Monday January 16th, 2017. They have agreed to open up on a Monday evening and let our Food Adventures Crew have the entire restaurant.

TICKETS ON SALE AT THIS LINK. Tickets include tax, tip and water/tea.

Please note, we only have room for 50 people at this dinner. So get your tickets NOW !

Ariake is known for terrific, premium sushi. You may have seen our previous article on this restaurant HERE.

Miso Soup included

Owner Miko Whigham and her sushi chef, Chef Sasaki have planned an incredible spread, and this night will be one of a kind. This is the foodie event you have been waiting for.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on ARIAKE SUSHI’S ALL YOU CAN EAT FOOD ADVENTURE:

WHEN: MONDAY, JANUARY 18th, 2017 at 6:30pm

The Godzilla Roll

WHERE: ARIAKE SUSHI RESTAURANT, 59 FIESTA LANE, MIAMISBURG

COST: $45 per person this includes the tip and tax and the following….

— MISO SOUP

— CRAB & SEAWEED SALAD

— ALL YOU CAN EAT SUSHI ROLLS UNTIL 8:30pm.

— HOT TEA and WATER

Shrimp Tempura Roll

There will be other drinks and alcohol for purchase.

NOTE*** The sushi rolls available will be a good variety chosen by the chef. Diners will pick from a nice display of sushi that will be constantly replenished

*** CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS *** Limited to the first 50 people. We are expecting a sell out.

Join us for this MUST EAT event on Monday January 16th, 2017. As always, this Food Adventure will also be filled with Trivia, Door prizes and more…

Check out some more photos below of what you can expect at the special dinner.

Are you a local foodie?? Then join the more than 7,000 Dayton foodies on our Facebook Food Adventures Page HERE

All you can eat Jan 16th

Up close Spider Roll

Tuna Roll

13076827_1005972022771162_6488586225986041540_n

Front Entrance across from the Dayton Mall

Dayton Roll

Shrimp Tempura roll

The Crab Seaweed Salad

Deep Fried Roll

Rainbow roll and Tuna Roll

Ariake Roll and more

Spider Roll – Softshell crab

Salmon Roll up close

Salmon Roll

All the sushi you want ..

Tuna Roll up close

Chef Torching an eel roll

Look at that plate !!

Buy your tickets NOW !

Spicy tuna roll

Oh my goodness… an Ariake Roll!

Just Stuff It, Will Ya ?

November 23, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Green Sriracha Bread Pudding by Chef House

Everybody is talking turkey, turkey turkey… giving pointers on grilling a turkey, baking one, deep frying one, etc, etc and so on.

Well, the Food Adventures crew says .. STUFF IT ! Literally. We want to share our secret or not so secret tips for stuffing, which is just as important as the turkey!

*** CHEF HOUSE’S TAKE ON STUFFING: Try Bread Pudding as an alternative. Always use quality ingredients.

—Stuffing vs. Bread Pudding by Chef House: I love both equally. My step dad makes an insanely good oyster stuffing every year for Christmas. It is loaded up with stock, butter and of course lots of oysters. I think gizzards are in there too.

Chef House in the Living Dayton TV Kitchen

—Bread pudding is a pretty cool alternative in that it can be sweet or savory! I like how versatile it is. I, of course, slightly spice mine up, add veggies (duh!) and you can’t beat the cheese, eggs and cream

—My only tips for these two would be “use quality ingredients.” Make your own stock for the stuffing, or use a really good one, I love Trader Joe’s veggie stock, actually more than i like their chicken broth! It has way more flavor. Use good bread! This year I am adding spicy sausage and caramelized onions to my Green Sriracha and zucchini bread pudding.

Jax with a plate of freshly carved Turkey

Wow, are you drooling yet? We are just getting started on this Food Adventure Holiday edition….

HUNGRY JAX’S TAKE ON STUFFING: Don’t Stuff it ! Tweak it !

Hey fellow foodies… here are my tips on getting the most of your stuffing experience….

— I don’t ever put stuffing inside my turkey, I just cook it in a separate dish! Why? Because there is a slight risk of salmonella if the turkey is under cooked. By placing stuffing inside the turkey you’re creating longer and unreliable cooking times. Don’t risk turning a holiday into a sick day.

Jackie never puts stuffing in her turkeys. Maybe a few herbs…

—Here are some tweaks I have done with test recipes!

1. Stuffing muffins: basically take your favorite stuffing recipe and cook it in a well greased muffin cups instead. baking time will be shorter so keep an eye on them. But now you have individual servings!

2. Hollow out a pumpkin or any other favorite squash (acorn would be fun too!) and bake the stuffing in the squash! This is a great pairing with stuffing that has the flavors of sage, maple or even apples!

Jax added some cranberrys to this stuffing

3. Add ins: Doctor up a simple stuffing by adding apples, pears, maple sausage, bacon or pancetta! Raisins, crasins and water chestnuts are also great too!

Finally, we have the last crew member giving some tips:

THE BIG RAGU’S TAKE ON STUFFING: Go Italian with it.

Big Ragu chopping garlic in the DLM Culinary Center

The Big Ragu says “here is my super duper, top secret, family recipe for Italian style stuffing that is versatile, quick and easy.”

This recipe, developed by my mom, is used regularly by our family for turkey stuffing, stuffed artichokes, stuffed mushrooms and even stuffed clams. I have tweaked it in my own special way, but basically it comes down to …. the “butter drizzle” at the end.

ITALIAN STYLE STUFFING RECIPE:

Oyster Stuffing, Ready for the Oven at Big Ragu’s home

Ingredients: 1 Loaf of Bread, 2 Eggs, 2 TBS Minced Garlic, 3 dashes of garlic powder, 3 dashes black pepper, 1 can of chicken broth (14oz), 2 TBS dried Oregano, 2 TBS Basil (dried or fresh), and a stick of melted butter or 2.

Directions: Whirl a loaf of bread in a food processor (Ragu normally uses Wonder Bread) or chip a loaf of bread by hand into silver dollar size pieces. Place bread into a big mixing bowl. Add eggs and spices and mix by hand, no.. really, using your hand and fingers. All the time slowly adding chicken broth until stuffing is mixed and slightly wet. The stuffing is best cooked in a casserole dish at 350 degrees for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown. *** The final and maybe most important step: Right before serving, drizzle some hot, melted butter over the top of the dressing.

Ragu’s Turkey Stuffed with Lemon Halves and Quartered Onions

Want Oyster Suffing (Dressing)? Use the above recipe and add a pint or quart of raw oysters, depending on how much of a seafood lover you are.

But Ragu, you say… “You didn’t put the stuffing in the turkey?”

NOPE.. I always cook it in a separate dish.

Here is what I stuff all turkeys with: Equal amounts of lemon halves and quartered onions. I stuff them in until they are bursting out. But I never eat the onions or lemons.

We hope this helps make your Thanksgiving plate complete

So there you have it…

The Food Adventure Crew of Chef House, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu want to thank you for checking out our tips, and wish each and every one of you a Happy Thanksgiving.

Are you a Dayton Foodie? Follow us on Facebook by clicking HERE. We feature amazing photos, restaurant features, dinner events, charity events, recipes, cooking classes and so much more!

Feel free to browse some of our Holiday and party photos below.

Chef House’s Green Sriracha Bread Pudding !

Even use Ragu’s Stuffing for Artichokes

Use the same stuffing techniques for whole chicken dinners

Stuffed Clams by Big Ragu

We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving

Stuffed Portabella Mushroom – ready for the oven

Never stuff a deep fried turkey

Stuffing and more, makes the turkey dinner even better.

Jackie basting her grilled Turkey

Just Stuff It ! With lemon halves and onion quartes

Just Stuff It ! With lemon halves and onion quarters

Meet Dorothy Lane’s Culinary School All Stars

November 11, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Peggy Neary during a featured cooking class

Calling all cooks! Our Food Adventures Crew loves to entertain. One of those ways is through whipping up meals for friends and family. Want to learn some skills from the basic to advanced? May we suggest some classes? If you want to “wow” them at your next dinner party, well then, we have the place for you….

Whether you call it the Dorothy Lane Market School of Cooking or the Culinary Center at Dorothy Lane Market, there is a cult following for this organization. And rightfully so, as we are lucky to have such a resource her in Dayton. Many brilliant cooks, chefs and kitchen volunteers make kitchen program come to life. Each year, throughout all 12 months, hundreds of attendees learn from some of the Miami Valley’s Best. Today, Food Adventures would like to introduce you to some of the All Stars that shine in this stellar organization.

Lamb Shank Bruchetta by Chef House

HERE’S THE SKINNY on THE CULINARY CENTER at DLM:

— Located at 6177 Far Hills Ave. in Centerville in the Washington Square Shopping Center.

— Hours are Monday – Friday 10am-3pm

— They offer classes year round for all ages

Mary Cooney, one of our favorites with Jax who has Mary’s cookbook !

— Prices range, depending on the class, and of course you get taste plates of each course during these events.

— Some classes are hands on, others are just observatory. The smells and the flavors are always fantastic, and the lessons are very informative.

— Numerous volunteers help clean, serve and even prepare some parts of the meals. Without them, the courses would not go as smoothly. In fact they wouldn’t take place at all.

— They do private events, like office parties. Team building events, anniversary parties, etc.

The school of cooking is close to our hearts. Hungry Jax has

Chef House prepping for a Food Adventure Class

been steadily active in volunteering over the years. She introduced The Big Ragu to the group, and he has even volunteered about 10 times over the past few years. Chef House has hosted her own cooking classes, and has lead the way for our Food Adventures Crew to reach our dream of hosting a couple of classes ourselves (The next one is “Food Adventure Party Foods” on May 18th, 2016).

Over the years, we have gotten to know the “ins and outs” of this fantastic Culinary Center, and the many “unsung heroes” of local cooking.

We are proud to introduce you to just some of the workhorses, that make the center a great success. They are today’s “Must Meets.”

Zebbie Borland with a delicious looking Almond Cake

DOROTHY LANE MARKET CULINARY CENTER’S “MUST MEETS:

PEGGY NEARY: Peggy has been a joyful part of the DLM experience for 16 years. She is the current manager, and runs most of the planning day in and day out. She readies and schedules all the classes, and prepares the paperwork. even though she has a busy schedule, she always finds time to meet and plan for new events. Peggy always has a smile on her face, and is a big supporter of the Dayton community. She is the glue.. er glucose that holds the place together !

MARY COONEY: Mary has been huge part of the classes and cooking program for over a decade. Her specialties are her lifelong, Italian family recipes. She is a tremendous baker too. Mary Cooney is a first-generation Italian-American who has a passion for teaching. that is hard to equal. She loves to share her knowledge of authentic Italian dishes as well as baking pies and desserts. We recommend her cookbook which just happens to be for sale at the DLM Culinary Center as well. She is definitely one of our favorites.

Freshly made tortellini in broth – Mary Cooney style

CARRIE WALTERS: Every time we are around Carrie, she is always making some incredible food. She is the official Dorothy Lane Market Corporate Chef. She is in charge of running some of the most popular events at DLM like the Food & Wine Show. She is also very involved in helping develop the curriculum of the Culinary Center classes. Her happiness in the kitchen is infectious, and her classes are delicious, informative and fun. Her reach goes beyond the School of Cooking. You can find many of Carrie’s recipes in the pre-made foods for sale at Dorothy Lane Market. She develops DLM’s Market report and instructional videos. She loves to travel, and uses those opportunities to learn new recipes, cooking methods which enhance the programs of the Culinary Center.

Julia Hoy is a shining star at the DLM Culinary Center

JULIA HOY: She typically works days at the Dorothy Lane Market Culinary Center. Her specialty is German cooking and dishes. Julia is also known for her dedication and cooking instruction in the “Basics” classes. These are perfect introductory classes that are essesntial for those wanting to build the foundation of food knowledge. This California girl graduated from college with a degree in Food Science. She put her skills to work at Sunkist Growers,shortly before moving to Ohio. Julia began working at Dorothy Lane Market in 2006 developing recipes for the Produce Departments. She continued her education at Sinclair, attaining a Culinary Arts degree and Culinary Certification. She is a workhorse of the organization, and is one of the reasons for the school’s solid success.

Chef Carrie, Chef Wiley and Chef DiSanto – ALL STARS !

ZEBBIE BORLAND: For 25 years, Zebbie has been a part of the Dorothy Lane Market family. She is known for her popular cooking classes for kids. From grilling to desserts, these classes are basic, informative and a perfect way to introduce your children formally to the world of cooking. One of the pillars of the center, Zebbie helps round out a full program of classes at the Culinary Center. Parents, take advantage of her great classes !

Chef House cooking with Mary Cooney

JOHN CHICO: John is a passionate home cook. His experiences cooking for family (like his 4 Italian Grandparents) and friends have brought his influences to the Culinary Center. Always willing to learn new things, John soaks up a lot of the information and techniques by rubbing elbows the the staff. John hosts the popular Pretzel Classes and a continuing education program with the University of Dayton. Beef stew, polento, and sousvide are some of his specialties. He uses his wife and children to test “breakfast for dinner” recipes. John has taken calsses at the center, volunteered for classes and finally has come full circle into an instructor.

Some classes even are paired with wine or beer !

We would be remiss if Food Adventures didnt mention just some of the “MUST MEET” chefs that have an influence on the Culinary Center at DLM.

CHEF JENN DISANTO: This amazing Chef is even more of an amazing person. She is one of our favorite people in the world. Chef Jenn DiSanto has a long friendship with Chef House. Hungry Jax has worked many of her cooking classes over the past decade. Big Ragu even worked one a few year back, but his heart was stolen by the menu at her catering business called Fresco (that is another whole Food Adventure article in itself). Jenn is a classically trained chef, known for using the highest-quality seasonal ingredients.

Hungry Jax on Kitchen Prep for some Buffalo Roll

She earned her culinary degree in Connecticut but has traveled extensively, even becoming a private chef domestically and overseas. Chef Disanto loves to pay homage to different cultures by producing some delicious, rustic recipes from different countries. An upstate New York native, she brings a strong work ethic to the kitchen. The result is meals that are extremely flavorful. Jenn also devotes much time and resources to helping various Dayton area charities that are close to her heart.

CHEF ELIZABETH WILEY: Chef Wiley is one of the culinary superstars of the Miami Valley. This Kansas native has been cooking professionally since 1979. After coming to Dayton and having a nearly 2 decade stint at the Winds she went a different direction. In 2004, her big breakout came when she wowed crowds after opening Meadowlark Restaurant. Her mantra is “We cook what we like to eat, and what’s in season.” That philosophy has led to unmatched triumphs. Using her experiences cooking in Chicago, San Francisco and Key West, Chef Wiley has poured this knowledge into her delicious menus. She parlayed her success and partnered in opening “Wheat Penny Pizza Oven.” This inventive venture takes

Chef Liz Valenti is all smiles

pizza and Italian favorites to a new level. She is also well known for her charitable contributions to local causes. Stay tuned for more news and business ventures from Chef Wiley.

CHEF LIZ VALENTI: Chef Valenti is a positive force of energy at the DLM Culinary Center. She is Catering and Private Party Director. She handles all of this along with her businesses partnerships like, Wheat Penny Pizza Oven. Known for pizza and innovative takes on Italian food, Liz’s star has been shining in Dayton for some time. Not only is she an amazing kitchen talent, she is also a great person. If she is a part of the event, be prepared for a delicious time. You will often notice her and her business partners helping various non-profit organizations around town. She is always giving back to the community.

A Food Adventure of Champagne Mussels – a Chef House recipe

The Culinary Center also has some fun internal events from various Pot Luck dinners, to a Julia Child Birthday celebration meal.

Oh and lest we forget the store inside the Culinary Center. Along the walls are books and various kitchen utensils for sale. A lot of these items you won’t find anywhere else. They also offer kitchen towels, copper items and many upscale verisons of essesntial kitchen tools.

Peggy works behind the Vino

Now you know a little bit more about the Culinary Center at Dorothy Lane Market. It is a great “School of Cooking” for any Miami Valley resident. Please take advantage of their classes and events. Sign up for one today! Search www.DorothyLane.com for more info.

There are opportunities to volunteeer for these classes as well. If you are interested contact Peggy at 937-435-5696 on weekdays.

The classes not only showcase the cooks, but they give a thoughtful insight on the very offerings of special, fresh ingredients from Dorothy Lane’s produce or specialty grocery sections.

For more content on Dayton’s Food Scene – “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Please browse the photos below from our Food Adventures at Dorothy Lane Market’s Culinary Center:

Wok right in and start learning

Chef DiSanto’s Swordfish Steaks

Chef Carrie at her best

Food Adventure Dinner 1 of 6 courses

JAx is excited for our first cooking class and the signage!

Preparing for a stir fry class

Inside the Center

Food Adventures Class

Full House

Our class

Jax and Chef serving up our 2nd class

Plating Tomato Pie, garlic artichoke cheese dip and melba toasts

Chef House at the Culinary Center

Jackie at LOBSTER CLASS !

Tomato Pie by our own Jax

“Nite at the Races” is Back!

October 29, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Endless Beer? Endless food? Bet Cash? Win Cash? Pull Tabs? Raffle Prizes? And all for charity?? YES! This is one time you are encouraged to “horse around.”

The Greater Dayton Apartment Association‘s charitable arm, “The Rent Foundation,” is again hosting a “Nite at the Races” event on Friday night, November 18th.

For the first time ever, this year’s event is being held at the ARBOR HALL in Dayton.

You will be able to bet cash and win cash on horse races shown on the BIG SCREEN and so much more. Saddle up! Are you ready? Because ……

Dozens of Raffle Prizes

HERE’S THE SKINNY on “NITE AT THE RACES !”

—WHEN: FRIDAY NIGHT NOV. 18th from 6pm – 11pm

—WHERE: ARBOR HALL, 2150 Arbor Blvd, Dayton, OH 45439

—COST: **TICKETS are $15 at the door and includes all the food, draft beer and soft drinks you want.**

—FOOD: Wings, Pizza, Taco Bar, Hot Dog Bar and more.

Bring your friends and family! You must be 21 or older to attend.

4 WAYS YOU CAN WIN and HELP THE RENT FOUNDATION!

$15 includes all the beer and food you want

— BET CASH, WIN CASH – Bet on horse races that will be shown on the big screen, pick the winner!

— “OWN” A HORSE at AUCTION – Be the winning bidder on a horse that wins the race!

— PULL TABS – Cash prizes for pull tabs. Last year there was a $250 pull tab winner

— BUY A WINNING RAFFLE PRIZE TICKET: Liquor, Gift Baskets, Restaurant Gift Cards, Designer Purses, Electronics, massage certificates and much more.

What is the Rent Foundation? This charitable group helps prevent homelessness by paying rent for families who are in crisis. These are everyday families who are dealing with an unforeseen circumstance or a

family tragedy, and need some temporary help. By partnering with the Greater Dayton Apartment Association (GDAA), the money raised will help benefit people living in those apartments communities across the Miami Valley.

What better way to help real people in the Dayton area?

And what a deal for endless drinks, food and entertainment for such a low price. It is a no brainer! Please help, by attending this event for a great cause.

SEE YOU AT THE RACES !!!

The night will be a blast, and will help house families. Help support this worthy Dayton cause. See you Friday, at the races !

Raffle Prizes include this lottery tree !

Hot Dog Bar, and drinks – all included in admission price !

Beer, and Betting on Horses !

Hot Dog Bar with the fixings !

Wine Basket raffle prizes

Kegs and Horses

Lots of winners

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So many raffle prizes of all sorts

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Volunteers for the event

another winner

Fall at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm

October 19, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Down south on Route 48, is a great little place

Hay! Hay! Hay! Food, fun and fall flavors await you at The Hidden Valley Fruit Farm. Just a few minutes south of Centerville on State Rout 48, Hidden Valley is the perfect place for a family Food Adventure, especially for little ones. You can find pies to petting zoos, and scarecrows to strawberry jams. They even have hay rides, pick your own apples and more. We have great memories of coming here as kids. This farm store is a perfect place to spend time with your loved onesand experience the sights and sniffs of the Fall season.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on HIDDEN VALLEY FRUIT FARM:

Caramel Apples, anyone ?

—For over 60 years, located at 5474 OH-48, Lebanon, OH 45036 just a few minutes south of Centerville.

—10am – 6pm Sunday through Wednesday and 10am – 7pm Thursday – Saturday

— Fun attractions include: Hayrides, pick your our pumpkin, pick your own apples, a gift shop in the 150 year old barn, an ice cream shop, and a petting zoo. There is “so much room for activities”

Pumpkins Galore

— The Country Store is in a 150 year old barn. It features a gift shop, a bakery, a produce area, grocery items and coffees.

— The small restaurant is open Wednesday to Saturday, and features an $8.99 lunch for a pulled-pork sandwich and two sides – choices are potato salad, corn-on-the-cob, or baked beans.

— They grow 38 different kind of apple varieties.

There are literally hundreds of choices, local squash, fruit jams and so much more. Over the years we have tried dozens of items. Here are some of our favorites that have lasted from the 1970’s. Without further delay.. we present our MUST EATS !

MUST EATS at HIDDEN VALLEY FRUIT FARM:

Fritters, Cider and Apples….

— GALLON OF APPLE CIDER: Hidden Valley Fruit Farm is one of the only farms in Ohio that still prepares its apple cider the old-fashioned way. Not from concentrate, their cider is pressed from select apples out of their own orchards. The cider goes from orchard, to press, to bottle, then straight to the refrigerators. Their is no homogenization, no pasteurization, and no additives or preservatives. The best cider ever in the Big Ragu’s opinion. Maybe it is the nostalgia, but he has never tasted anything like it.

— PUMPKIN DONUTS: Small, sugary and delicious. We have been enjoying these for decades. Get a few extra, they seem to disappear into hungry mouths on the way to the car.

Local Honey

— GALA APPLES: OK, so they have 38 different kinds of apples… One of our favorites is the sweet Gala apples grown on site. There are so many others, some good for baking, others good for eating. All of them local, right off the trees and delicious.

— APPLE FRITTERS: These are huge. They are sweet, glazed and delicious. So sweet in fact, that they are guaranteed to attract a bee or two if eaten outside. Made fresh, they melt in your mouth and go great with a glass of milk.

— LOCAL NATURAL RAW HONEY: There are so many uses for this wonderful product. From a drop in your tea, to drizzling over cereal, this honey is fantastic. On toast or a spoonful from the jar, it is a wonderful treat. Did you know that consuming local honey helps guard against allergies to local plants? It is true with all natural honeys and the area they are produced.

38 varities of apples

— CARAMEL APPLES WITH NUTS: Nice sized apples dipped in a thick caramel coating, with the bottom half rolled in chopped peanuts. The result is everything you could ever want from a salty and sweet treat. Sinful? You bet… If you want to go big, they have a “Thriller” apple which is the deluxe chocolate added treat. Although they are great, we stay old school here and prefer the original.

Honorable Mention: The Homemade Fudge. All flavors. It used to cause family squabbles in the car on our way back from Kings Island..

Gala apples – sweet things grown on their orchard

The Hidden Valley Fruit Farm is a throwback Food Adventure and a tribute to the old days. Rural America eats and treats, and simple pleasures like a fall Hay ride.

Find the peace and calm of a brisk Autumn day, and visit this local treasure. There is still time to grab a pumpkin before Halloween, and this is the perfect spot to scope one out. See you near the corn stalks, inside the barn….

Are you a Dayton Foodie? Then follow us on Facebook by clicking here, and find your paradise. The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax are just a click away.

Please enjoy the sights of Fall at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm by browsing our photos below.

Pumpkins out front

Vintage Tractor

Chicken coop on site

Inside the Country Store

Butterfinger fudge – have you ever heard something so sweet?

Outside looking around

Stalk to you later

Activities and prices

No bake pies….

Indian Corn

Candy table

Pork in a can

Fresh from the orchard out back

Petting Farm and Playground

Scarecrows and Pumpkins out front

Apples – just picked….

Extra! Archer’s Opens New Location Monday!

October 9, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Archer’s on Dorothy Lane Opens Monday October 10th !

Familiar food and faces, in new places, is what you can expect this Monday. Popular Centerville restaurant “Archer’s Tavern” expands to a second location tomorrow, and the buzz has been very positive from training day.

A new atmosphere, larger than the original restaurant, and an enclosed patio area are some of the featurea. But don’t worry, you can still eat your favorites as they have kept the EXACT same menu !

Food Adventures was able to grab a table on training night, and we are pleased to announced that the food was terrific and the service was great. They have a tried and true system which allows for quick, attentive service, Their friendly employees are top notch.

A New Staff Awaits You

HERE’S THE SKINNY on ARCHER’S TAVERN, KETTERING:

— The restaurant is located at 2030 E. Dorothy Lane in the old Tumbleweed restaurant location.

— Grand Opening October 10th, 2016 at 11am.

— Hours will be :
Sunday 11am – 10pm
Monday – Thursday 11am – 11pm
Friday and Saturday 11am-1am

Blackened Tilapia over Rice

— The restaurant will rotate 24 draft beer taps, with an eclectic selection of local, familiar and rare beers.

— Huge, 200 people seating area, with full bar area and enclosed patio seating

— Archer’s will continue to feature Buckeye Vodka in many of its cocktails and special events.

— Owners Mike Fullenkamp and Dan Apolito started planning for this location a year ago, after deciding to nix a deal on a Cornerstone Development location near Wilmington Pike and Feedwire Rd.

One of the Dining Rooms

As for the food, we have our patented “MUST EATS” to tell you about. Use our dozens of visits here to ensure you try the best of the best. Drumroll please… start drooling as we present our …

MUST EATS at ARCHER’S TAVERN- KETTERING/DOROTHY LANE:

— AWARD WINNING CHILI: Every year they hold a chili cook off, and the winner not only wins cash, but their chili goes on the menu for a year. The result is the most flavorful chili around. It is ridiculously good.

Fudge Brownie Sundae – yeah, that good

— ARCHER’S ALE: This is the Big Ragu’s “go to” brew at Archers. It is an ESB (Extra Special Bitter), but don’t let the name ESB scare you, it is a light refreshing beer. It is brewed in Cincinnati by Rivertown Brewery, ESPECIALLY for Archer’s Tavern. Try this winner in a pint glass.

— GRILLED, BLACKENED TILAPIA OVER RICE: This will knock your socks off if you love fish. A nice, clean , fresh filet. The blackened seasoning gives it a perfect balance. We suggest a side salad and rice for your sides to complete a perfect pairing.

— WINGS “SWEET AND SEXY STYLE”: This is why you read Food Adventures, because we know

Enclosed Patio seating

things no one else does. These wings are NOT on the menu, but available by special request. These are wings with Dry Rub spice, drizzled with Spicy Garlic sauce, then tossed in Sweet BBQ sauce. The result is tangy and slightly hot taste of joy. Probably the best wing sauce we have ever tasted.

— THE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK: A massive, heaping sandwich filled with meat, peppers and melted provolone cheese. You can also request cheese whiz on this monster. We say, go for it. This is how they do it in Philadelphia. Your choice of shaved ribeye steak or sliced chicken breast for the meat. Tip: ask for extra mayo.

The Bar Area

— TACO PIZZA: Good, flavorful and spicy! The ground beef matches well with the cheese and jalapenos. The fresh dough is a hallmark and we absolutely love it.

— STICKY BURGER: Where else in town can you get a burger with Peanut Butter on it ? The result is an incredible taste that mimics a peanut Thai taste. In the 5 year hisory of Archer’s only 2 people have returned the burger because they did not like it. TRY IT !

— FUDGE BROWNIE SUNDAE: Oh mama…. the brownie is served hot, covered in hot fudge. A scoop of vanilla ice cream tops that, and caramel is drizzled over the whole thing. Turn on the lights and call the law, we dont care if we ever get well…

Salad With French Dressing

What great stuff. A local eatery with spot on food, service and prices, just like the original. This location should be a home run too.

Food Adventures would like to send congratulations to the owners and staff on their new locale. It is a pleasant place, and is perfect for family and friends. It will also be a great stop for those softballers, and other sports teams at Delco Park for after game dinners and drinks.

Food Adventures is proud to be featured in weekly articles on DaytonMostMetro .com

Check out our upcoming appearances at our Food Adventures website, DaytonFoodies.com – since 2008, bringing you food scoop in the Miami Valley.

Browse the Gallery Below for some great Archer’s food and restaurant photos.

Outside – Kettering Archer’s

Archers ale

one of the Large dining rooms

Sweet and Sexy wings

Bar Area Seating

Taco Pizza

The Bar Area

Sign out front

The Big Ragu with a Sticky Burger

Philly Cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz

The Sticky burger assembled

Bun with peanut butter on the StickyBurger

BBQ wings

Crawfish Boil for a special anniversary party

Homemade Chips

Chili

Award Winning Chili

Pizza

Chicken and Bacon Sandwich

Reuben

Salad

Dan and Mike open their second location of Archers

Blackened Tilapia over rice

Bourbon Street Cafe: Oooh, That Chicken….

October 6, 2016 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Bourbon Chicken – Their signature dish and main draw

Bourbon Street is again on Brown Street, and has been for a while. The Bourbon Street Grill and Cafe is in a no frills dining room where the line can get long, but it goes fast. From UD Students, to locals, people come from all over. Whether for a work lunch, or taking dinner home, people are getting wise to this place. Why? It is simple – GOOD FOOD, GOOD VALUE! And …. oooooh that chicken, …. people go crazy over it !

This place is EXACTLY what Food Adventures is about… a locally owned spot where practically everything on the menu is a winner. We should know it, because in the 6 or 7 times we have visited, Bourbon Street Grill & Cafe, we have tried practically every menu item. And that’s what sets our blog apart.

Located at 1043 Brown Street

HERE’S THE SKINNY on BOURBON STREET GRILL & CAFE:

— Located at 1043 Brown St. in Dayton, they are open everyday from 11am-9pm, except Sundays when they are closed.

— Owned by Hassan Abdalla, who moved to Dayton as young adult from the Middle East. He always had the dream of being a pilot. His father passed away unexpectedly, forever prolonging that dream and Hassan found himself working in kitchens to make ends meet. He worked himself up

Blackened Salmon over Corn and Potatoes

to high end restaurants, like L’Auberge. He then decided to open his own business, for years doing catering and festivals. He opened a restaurant on W Second Street, then took an opportunity on a new location on Brown Street.

— They still cater and make several festival appearances during the year.

— Note that their chicken is grilled thigh meat, that is pulled and finished on the flat grill and cubed. The result is a one of a kind, almost melt in your mouth taste.

— Helpful and hard working staff, always busting their butts to fill orders.

We first were exposed to these guys at festivals, and after eating their food at Big Brews and Blues, then Garlic Fest, we have been hitting the brick and mortar location regularly. Over time, the Food Adventure Crew has developed a list of Bourbon Street Grill and Cafe’s absolute best dishes. Or as we call them, our patented “Must Eats.”

Spicy Chicken over White Rice

MUST EATS at BOURBON STREET GRILL & CAFE:

— BOURBON CHICKEN: The signature dish. The mother ship on a plate. We suggest white rice or spicy rice with this, although many enjoy lo mein noodles or steamed vegetables as a side. When they serve this chicken, they scoop it up, then get another scoop of sauce and drizzle it over top. We drool every time.

Sides served right out of the piping hot steamers

— BLACKENED SALMON: Cajun spices dust the pan seared salmon filet. Again we suggest it over rice, but there are so many choices from beans to corn to potatoes, the sky is the limit. But the Salmon… holy cow is it good.

— SPICY CHICKEN: This is the Big Ragu’s favorite dish. He sweated in the summer heat and got lit up at a couple of festivals but it was worth it. He likes the spicy chicken poured over white rice, to cool down some of the heat. But choose whatever side you want.

Havent had cornbread this good since Burbanks

— CORNBREAD: An incredible throwback to southern style cornbread. One slight problem, they do not have butter on site. So if you are eating in, byob – “bring your own butter.” We could eat a brownie pan of this stuff.

— THE CHEESEBURGER: A 1/3 pound burger patty loaded on a sturdy bun with all the fixins. They top it off right. A delicious mix of flavors, napkins recommended for this one.

Honorable Mention: — The PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SANDWICH is a nice surprise (get extra mayo). Also, the BLACKENED SEA BASS is delicious.

Even their Burger surprised us

From salads to beans, to edible fried tortilla bowl options, you have an open canvas. With so many good entrees and sides to choose from, you can get lost in their menu. One thing you wont lose, is a lot of money, because the menu is a great value.

Now you know about this stellar place on Brown Street. Go check out Bourbon Street Grill & Cafe and make your own combinations. It is a great place, with an incredible owners story behind it. A story of hard work and perserverence.

Make sure you browse the photos below in our picture gallery. Our food pics are incomparable.

Remember, we are not food critics, we are 3 people with a passion for food. Follow Food Adventures on our Facebook Page by clicking HERE. It is a foodie’s paradise. Also, catch our upcoming appearances on DaytonFoodies.com since 2008.

Philly cheesesteak

Lo Mein Noodles Option

The staff is one of the hardest working in town

Corn and Blackened Salmon

The Gyro

Spicy chicken and rice

Grilling Chicken

Dining Room

Potato side with salmon

Tilapia – edible bowl

Ghost Hunting at Amber Rose

September 30, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Come on down, nobody’s been down here… for a while

CALLING ALL GHOST HUNTERS! BYOE.. bring your own equipment!

(Caution: All attendees must sign a waiver) Get your tickets by clicking HERE.

Friday night, October 21st, in the wee hours of the night, you may hear a creak, you may feel a chill. But this is what many are coming for, this is what they want. The Amber Rose Restaurant is giving 40 attendees unprecendented access to the previously private areas of the “Haunted” restaurant. Some will bring cameras, some will bring fancy recording devices, others will just bring their senses.

Access to the spooky azz basement.. CHECK

Erdinger Dunkel will be flowing, and the moon glowing

Access to the creepy old attic… CHECK

Paranormal investigators “ParaSense” will be on hand, sharing their findings and helping guide visitors. It’s all you hunt from 9pm til 2am.

But hey, Ghost Hunters get hungry and thirsty.. So we have put together a 3 station stop of food and brews… in between your, BOOS ! For late stayers, there will be a special late night cheap eats menu and drink specials until 2am.

Now, THAT is a Food Adventure.

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE NIGHT OF GHOST HUNTING:

WHEN: OCTOBER 21st at 9pm and you are welcome to stay and Ghost Hunt until 2am

WHERE: The AMBER ROSE RESTAURANT at 1400 Valley Street in Dayton

The Haunted Amber Rose Restaurant on 1400 Valley Street

WHAT: 3 Beers, 3 Food Stations, 1 Night of unprecendented access for Ghost Hunting and ghastly findings from Parasense Paranormal Investigative Team. What will they share from their 2015 and 2016 overnight visits? Shelly, Kat and Alicia have recordings, photos and computer findings that will make your hair stand on end ! The Food Adventures Crew may be hiding under a table

First Course
—Beck’s Oktoberfest
—Deluxe Potato Pancakes & Bavarian Pretzels with Bier Cheese Dip

Whats the wurst that can happen ?

Second Course
—Erdinger Dunkel Beer
—Bratwurst Encroute & Hunter Schnitzel Sliders

Third Course
—Breckenridge Vanilla Porter
—Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

SPECIAL LATE NIGHT MENU 1opm – 2am – CHEAP PRICES, CHEAP THRILLS, CHEAP SCREAMS ! Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu are always up for a late night Food Adventure.

COST: EVENT IS PRE PAY ONLY $25 includes the tip – CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS –

Welcome to the heart of Haunted Dayton ladies and gentleman. Come learn about the history of Amber Rose, hear the personal stories, and most of all explore for yourself. There will be door prizes, trivia and much more. If you are serious Ghost Hunter or just have a hunger for the Miami Valley’s scariest places… Dont miss this one night only event !

Want more foodie fun? Join the 7,000 fans on Facebook that follow Food Adventures…. CLICK HERE

You arent Scared… are ya ?

Attendees can Toast to a ghost !

Wings from the Late Night Menu

Attic and basement and other places are now ON LIMITS !

Wiener scnitzel

Arnold Palmer: The Golfer, The Foodie & The Drink

September 26, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Arnold doing what he does best …

The year was 2005, and NCR Country Club was hosting the PGA Senior open. It was the last day of the event, and a tired Arnold Palmer stopped into the CVS convenient store in Oakwood on Far Hills Ave. He was looking for lotion and grabbed an ice tea and a lemonade. He asked questions of the young clerk upon checkout, and was on his merry way. Another day in the life of the legend.

Arnold Palmer, the iconic 20th Century golfer, passed away last weekend of heart failure. He was 87. Arnold was the closest thing golf had to royalty. He grew up in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, learned golf from his father who was the greenskeeper. Arnold eventually would buy the golf club, after a successful career that began with a golfing scholarship at Wake Forest and his first amateur win in 1954, cementing his turn to a professional golfer.

The Arnold Palmer Drink: Half Lemonade / Half Iced Tea

He was always a hard worker, viewed as a blue collar champion of the sport. He also had a sense of humor: “I have a tip that can take five strokes off anyone’s golf game: it’s called an eraser.”

THE SKINNY ON ARNOLD THE FOODIE:

From clothing to sports equipment and commercials, he was a marketing guru as well. We are happy to report that Arnold was also a foodie. His favorite Food Adventure? A nice, thick, juicy burger. He also loved comfort foods like meatloaf, beef stroganoff and pot roast. Another favorite MUST EAT? Montgomery Inn Ribs. In fact, he loved them so much, he featured them on his menu in his restaurant in La Quinta, California

Half a slab of Montgomery Inn ribs

MUST DRINKS: “THE ARNOLD PALMER”

Arnold’s wife used to make iced tea for him a lot. I the 60’s he asked her to put a little lemonade in it and see how it tasted to change things up. Once he got the proportions of each ingredient right, he had found his trademark. Years later at a restaurant bar in Palm Springs, California, he would ask the bartender for the concoction. A waitress overheard the request and said I want to try one of those “Arnold Palmers” and so requested a couple of diners as well. There you have it… In approximately 2005, the Arizona Tea Company mass produced the drink to the delight of thirsty golfers, sports fans and convenient store visitors.

So today, Food Adventures raises a glass of HALF ICED TEA and HALF LEMONADE to the MONTGOMERY INN RIBS LOVING, “King of Golf,” Arnold Palmer.

Follow the Miami Valley’s local food blog, Food Adventures on TWITTER and FACEBOOK. Look for feature articles each and every week on DaytonMostMetro .com

Young Arnie – thinking bout some ribs…

Sports Illustrated photo of Arnold Palmer tearing up a hot dog

Arizona Tea Company

Haunted Food Adventure at Amber Rose Oct 7th

September 21, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Rhinegiests & Poltergeists Returns Oct 7th to the Amber Rose

Sellout crowd expected again !!

FOOD, BEER, … GHOSTS

This is a post that many of you have been waiting for… Dayton Most Metro is kicking of the fall season with a “BOO!”

—October 7th, the popular “RHINEGEISTS and POLTERGEISTS” ghostly beer dinner returns! A brainchild of local bloggers, the Food Adventure crew, this popular scarefest looks to again to have a sellout crowd of over 100 foodies at the Amber Rose restaurant. There will also be a special presentation from a nationally known paranormal investigative group, ParaSense.

Pierogies and More on the Menu

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON “RHINEGEISTS and POLTERGEISTS”

WHEN: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7th at 7pm

WHERE: AMBER ROSE RESTAURANT at 1400 Valley St. in Dayton

WHAT: 4 COURSE DINNER from AMBER ROSE and 4 BEERS from RHINEGEIST BREWERY

Visit the Haunted Amber Rose for this Food Adventure

—COURSE 1: Sausage, Potato and Sauerkraut Pierogies and German Bier Cheese Dip

—COURSE 2: Beef Rouladen (rolled) with Roasted, Rustic Vegetables

—COURSE 3: Apple Cinnamon Smoked Pork Chop with German Potato & Bavarian Hash

—COURSE 4: Cherry Almond Bread Pudding

Each course will be paired with a Rhinegeist Beer:

—BEER 1: “ALICE” a Belgium Style Ale

—BEER 2: “EXUM” a Pale Ale

—BEER 3: “HUGH” an Oktoberfest brew

—BEER 4: “STEVE” a Dark Lager

Parasense – Paranormal Investigator Team – Alicia, Shelly and Kat

WHAT ELSE: A special presentation from a local paranormal investigative team with national exposure, called PARASENSE. ParaSense will be sharing their findings from numerous overnight ghost hunts from 2015 and 2016. NEW FINDINGS, NEW GOOSEBUMPS !

COST: $35 per person includes the tip ! Tickets are PRE-PAY and ONLY AVAILABLE at THIS LINK. This event has always sold out and will be limited to 100 people.

EACH ATTENDEE GETS A FREE RHINEGEIST PINT GLASS !

ALICE from Rhinegeist Brewery

*****The party continues after the event, downstairs at the bar with “Happy Hour” pricing*****

As many of you may know, The Amber Rose is supposedly a haunted venue. The ghost is believed to be the daughter of the former house owner. She is a playful ghost named Genevieve Ksiezopolski aka “Chickie.” Employees have many stories of glasses flying off of shelves, lights being turned on and even the appearance of a poltergeist. Take for example this case, where a cook claimed to see a full apparition of a lady in a long dress who walked into the room, then turned and walked away. When the frightened cook alerted the staff, they quickly pulled the security surveillance camera footage. What they saw at the same time the cook claimed to encounter the ghost was this: click to see video

Who is Haunting the Amber Rose? Some think it is this lady….

A local, three person “ghost hunter” crew will be investigating the Amber Rose facility in the weeks leading up to the dinner. They have appeared on on National Television! Their work has been featured in“America’s Most Haunted,” “My Ghost Story”, and Haunted Ohio VI. Independent Paranormal Investigators Kat Powell and Shelly Suittor met in 1999 as tour guides for the Ohio State Reformatory, Prospect Place, and Snow Hill Country Club. Teaming up with Alicia Soich in 2012, they’ve logged hundreds of hours of field research and private investigations across the state.

What will their findings be? Will they be contacted by “Chickie” or some other poltergeist? Join us and find out ! And stay for the Happy Hour after party at the bar !

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE! TICKETS ARE PRE-PAY ONLY! LIMITED SEATING!

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Fast Food’s 5 Monster Burgers

September 7, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The Super Big Boy from Frisch’s is the Best

Food Adventures leaves no plate unturned. We eat it all and have no rules. Sure, most of our stories highlight locally owned eateries with food that we have fallen in love with. From time to time we will go off track and do our tongue in cheek take on chain restaurants, or in this case the dreaded “fast food chains”

Fast food is a guilty pleasure for many, and a way to grab a quick bite in a pinch…. even these chains go crazy touting deals or big specials. Today, we go all out and try some of their biggest creations and we don’t count a calorie. These are the “Monsters of the Meatway” if you will. These are the “Big Daddys of the burger industry,” and we aren’t afraid to rank ’em in order. They are the always huge, sometimes sloppy, sandwiches that will never have you asking “where’s the beef?’

Sit back, loosen your belt, and indulge on these must eats. Food

The Double Whopper from Burger King is a good one

Adventures presents the jaw dropping, must eat, top 5 “monster” burgers of the fast food industry:

FAST FOOD’S 5 MONSTER BURGERS:

1) “THE SUPER BIG BOY” at FRISCH’S RESTAURANTS:
The supersized version of the American favorite “Big Boy” burger. This one has the same amount of cheese, but 2 bigger patties, more lettuce and most imporantly, more of that unbelievable Frisch’s tartar sauce. It is a 1/2 pound of beef on the signature double decker bun, and it aims to please. It does just that and makes the grade as our #1 pick!

The Triple Cheeseburger from Wendy’s

2) “THE DOUBLE WHOPPER SANDWICH” from BURGER KING:
Another giant version of a popular burger, the flame broiled “double whopper” is a very filling sandwich. Over the year’s the regular whopper has been shrinking in size. This burger is a push back towards yesteryear. The hearty, sesame seed bun finally gets challenged and does the job, strongly holding the lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, cheese and mayo together. The secret to this sandwich is the griled taste that is unmatched in the fast food world.

3) “DAVE’S TRIPLE CHEESEBURGER” at WENDY’S:
Not one, not two, but THREE patties, each one weighing a quarter of a pound make up this masterpiece. This “brick of beef” is packed with cheese and loaded with lettuce, tomato, mayo, pickles, ketchup, and onion. The soft bun holds this massive monster together. This sandwich is bursting with flavor but is not for the squeamish, as it has the most amount of meat in our list.

4) “THE BIG BUFORD” from RALLY’S:

The Big Buford from Rally’s

Two “seasoned and seared” beef patties on a bun with all the fixins. That means cheese, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, lettuce, tomatoes and onions served on a premium, sesame seed bun. Grab a napkin, this fast food freakshow likes to drip condiments on your hands and shirt. Probably the most bang for your buck on the list, as Rally’s is known for good prices. It is a Food Adventure on a bun.

5) “THE 2/3rd POUND MONSTER THICKBURGER with CHEESE” from HARDEE’S:
We were surprised to find out this burger had the word “monster” in its name. It must be fate, so it rounds out our list. This is the only “bacon burger” on our list. It features two 1/3 lb. charbroiled 100% Black Angus beef patties, 4 strips of bacon, 3 slices of American cheese and mayonnaise. The bun is heralded as “fresh baked.” It doesn’t matter though because the lack of condiments on this one makes the burger pretty much uneatable. This sandwich is just all meat, no toppings. Pretty gross unless you are a pure carnivore.

Hardee’s Monster Thickburger – just gross…

There you have it. The “plumpest patties on a bun,” the “biggest boys of the drive thru” ranked in order.

How did we do? Did we nail it, or did we leave out one of the gargantuan bundles of meat on a bun?

Give us your feedback and remember this list was for FAST FOOD chains only ….

Did you have enough to eat? Still hungry for more? Then “like” the Food Adventure Crew on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Join the 7,000 fans following Chef House, Hungry Jax and the Big Ragu. We are not food critics, we are Food Adventurers. We just love to eat.

Also, remember to check out our weekly featured articles on MostMetro.com

Super Big Boy from Frischs with sauce seeping out…

Frisch’s Big Boy

Home of the Whopper

Double Whopper

Hardees sucks

All that was on the Hardee’s Thickburger was bacon, cheese and 1/4 tsp of “secret sauce” that wasn’t noticeable

Big Buford from Rally’s

Wendy’s Triple Cheeseburger – WOW

The Super Big Boy from Frischs !

chef house

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Kings Island Military Days

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Kings Island Military Days

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Ralph’s Mystery Food Truck

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