Dayton

MikeSell’s Introduces “Beer Can Chicken Flavor” & More…

August 15, 2014 By Dayton937 2 Comments

New “Beer Can Chicken” flavor hits shelves August 22nd

Dayton’s hometown potato chip has done it again. Mikesell’s has released two new, unique flavors in their line of snacks! And Daytonians are the beneficiaries of the great taste.

Looks like you Food Adventurers have a couple more MUST EATS on your list. We were lucky enough to sample a couple of bags before they are out in stores. Here are Food Adventure’s take on the new flavors.

— BEER CAN CHICKEN FLAVORED POTATO CHIPS: We love the name and the idea is unique. The flavor is very muted and soft. Mikesells lovers will find not much variance of flavor from the regular groovy chips. The chips are almost a “Chicken Broth” flavor, so it is very subtle. Eatability factor is a 10 out of 10. We could munch on these all night and day. These are Mikesells for sure! This chip would great with some french onion dip.

— SOUTHWESTERN QUESO CHEESE CURLS: The puffs with no husk are back with a bold flavor. These have a little kick from the jalapeno flavor, but not too much. The perfect amount of zestiness and heat make these cheese curls eatable by the handfuls. Grab a bag of these for a party pleaser snack. Your sassy Food Adventure in a bag

Mikesells two new flavors are definitely a tale of two contrasts. One flavor is fairly subtle, and the other is fairly bold. The one thing that they have in common is they are tasty and addicting. We will be munching these up all over town. Hope you grab a bag and try these Dayton Originals for yourself. They will be available in stores AUGUST 22nd !

Want more Dayton Originals? Then “like” the often imitated, never duplicated “Food Adventures” on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Check out our photos below of the new products from Mikesells !
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Colin Firth & Emma Stone in Woody Allen’s MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT at THE NEON!

August 14, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

Woody Allen’s last three films – MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, TO ROME WITH LOVE and BLUE JASMINE – have all been big hits at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open Allen’s latest film – a 1920’s romantic comedy starring Colin Frith and Emma Stone – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT. BOYHOOD – the best-reviewed film of the year – will stick around for another week.

Synopsis for MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT: “Chinese conjuror Wei Ling Soo is the most celebrated magician of his age, but few know that he is the stage persona of Stanley Crawford (Colin Firth), a grouchy and arrogant Englishman with a sky-high opinion of himself and an aversion to phony spiritualists’ claims. Persuaded by his friend, Howard Burkan (Simon McBurney), Stanley goes on a mission to the Cote d’Azur mansion of the Catledge family: mother Grace (Jacki Weaver), son Brice (Hamish Linklater), and daughter Caroline (Erica Leerhsen). He presents himself as a businessman named Stanley Taplinger in order to debunk the alluring young clairvoyant Sophie Baker (Emma Stone) who is staying there with her mother (Marcia Gay Harden)…What follows is a series of events that are magical in every sense of the word and send the characters reeling. In the end, the biggest trick MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT plays is the one that fools us all.” (taken from Sony Pictures Classics) Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

The FilmDayton Film Festival is just around the corner – August 22-24. The full schedule has been released and festival passes and single tickets are now available on-line. Check out the line-up and purchase your tickets at the festival’s Official Site. In addition to screenings that will be held at THE NEON, there are a number of other special programs happening downtown. Here’s a list of what’s happening at THE NEON:
Friday, Aug. 22 at 7pm – THE INFINITE MAN
Friday, Aug. 22 at 9pm – FLICK MY CLIP
Saturday, Aug. 23 at Noon – INTERNATIONAL SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 2pm – GIVE TO LIVE THE MOVIE
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 4pm – OHIO SHORTS
Saturday, Aug. 23 at 7pm – ZERO MOTIVATION
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 12:30pm – U.S. SHORTS
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 3:15pm – STOMPING GROUND
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 5:30pm – THIS TIME NEXT YEAR
Sunday, Aug. 24 at 8pm – FILMDAYTON AWARDS

On Saturday, August 30 at noon, Roosevelt Class of ’67 will hold a fundraiser with a screening of BUCK AND THE PREACHER. “The film stars several icons who were at the beginning of their careers. Sidney Pointier stars as Buck. This was also the first film that he directed. Harry Belafonte stars as the preacher. His production company, Belafonte Enterprise produced the film with others. Ruby Dee was the wife of Buck. This film was set in Kansas Territory immediately following the Civil War in the late 1860’s. The cost is $20. This includes the movie, glass of wine, soda, and popcorn. Tickets are available at THE NEON.” (taken from press notes)

Mark your calendars now for The Dayton LGBT Film Festival – set for October 10-12. I met with the festival committee on Sunday for our epic, hash-it-out, planning meeting…and we came up with a really strong line-up of films. That said, I’m still awaiting confirmation from a couple titles before I can make big announcements. However, I can announce this – our Opening Night film – THE WAY HE LOOKS, sponsored by Square One Salon & Spa – is a huge crowd pleaser that has been winning awards all around the world. I hope you’ll hurry down to get tickets once they go on sale!

Thanks for your continued support!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 15 – Thursday, August 21:

MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday: 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40
Wednesday: 3:00, 5:20, 8:30
Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 7:40

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:30, 8:00
Monday – Thursday: 3:30, 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 29 – LAND HO
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

Road Trip Food Adventure? Seafood Fest in Cincy Starts Tonight!

August 13, 2014 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Delicious, Whole Steamed Lobsters for $10.95

Whole lobsters for $10.95??

WHAT? .. No, the proper comment is YES! YES! YES! Wanna take a drive? It is time for a fish, mollusk, and crustacean FOOD ADVENTURE!

The Great Inland Seafood Festival takes place this Thursday through Sunday on the banks of the Ohio River. More specifically, the fest is at Newport Landing in Newport, KY.

The Food Adventures Crew are the only ones in Dayton with the full scoop on this road trip !

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The Great Inland Seafood Festival runs THURSDAY, AUG. 14 – SUNDAY, AUG. 17th.

— The event is on Newport Landing, in Kentucky, literally behind the Newport Aquarium, in a parking lot, on the banks of the Ohio River

— Admission is FREE ! We suggest getting there EARLY, whatever day you plan to go, to avoid crowds/lines.

Make sure you try one of the HUGE crabcakes

— Festival Hours are:

THURS 5pm-11pm

FRI 5pm-11pm

SAT: Noon-11pm

SUN: Noon-9pm

Now, pay attention, because we are gonna tell you something most important. We are gonna share with you our favorite things, because we are not ‘shellfish!” (groan)

MUST EATS:

— WHOLE MAINE LOBSTERS FOR $10.95: Need we say more? Served with drawn butter, these are the tastiest items and best deal at the festival. We usually eat 2 or 3 each. Yeah …. Food Adventure problems. They sell thousands of lobsters each year, so you don’t have to worry about clawing your way to the top to get one.

— THE COLOSSAL CRAB CAKES: Delicate enough to be delicious, but huge enough to curb your hunger, you gotta try one of these pan seared babies.

What about the other stuff? Well the world is your oyster.. There are fried seafood platters galore, and combos too. Not all the food is fried, there are some steamed items like tilapia and other grilled items.

Be warned, seafood is expensive, so some of the sampler and combo plates can be $20. So don’t be “crabby” when you see a few price tags.

Take it from us, eat some seafood, enjoy some free live music, check out the view, and even visit some watering holes at Newport Landing afterwards… Bring some friends, now is not the time to “clam up.”

In fact you can do what we like to do. Go to the festival early, then explore Newport, and hit the festival again on your way to the parking garage at night. Nothing says Food Adventures like live, whole lobsters at 10:00pm ! Hope to see you there if you make the drive.

There is something fishy going on here, but that’s how we like it at the Great Inland Seafood Festival.

Do you like seafood? Want to SEE more FOOD? Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE. It is a foodie’s paradise, and we aren’t just “fishing” for compliments.

Check out the photo gallery below for some incredible pics of all angles of the festival !

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

August 8, 2014 By Dayton937 28 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUST EATS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are more, MUST EATS such as:

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

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

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

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

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

Cabbage Rolls – Frozen or Made Fresh to Order

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

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

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

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

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

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

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If You’re Hoppy and You Know It

August 7, 2014 By Brian Petro Leave a Comment

Yes, they do really glow like that.

Behold humulus lupulus – a plant that grows in very similar climates that grapes do. It is dioecious, which means that the male and female part flower separately. There are a wide variety of them, found all over the world. It is a climbing plant, so when cultivating it you will see rows and rows of upright poles for the plant to grow on. The female flowering cones are the part of the plant we are most familiar with. We refer to them as hops, and they are used mainly as a bittering agent in beer. The bitterness comes from alpha acids that are natural to the plant. They stay with the brew, protecting it from wild bacteria and filtering the beer to make it look clearer. If that is not enough, they add a variety of flavors to the beer (most often herbal, citrusy, or earthy ones), as well as cut down the sweetness of the fermented malt.

Why are hops so important? The first Thursday in August is rapidly being established as International IPA Day, and the most important thing to an IPA is hops. Lots and lots of hops. IPA is the shortening of “India pale ale”, a style of beer that is almost 200 years old. IPAs are most noted for their bitterness and complexity, having enough malt to balance out the hops. Some brewers also add other ingredients to the mix (Three Floyd’s Apocalypse Cow adds milk sugar) to tame the hoppiness. The colors of IPAs usually fall into the golden or amber hues, but some will get dark as the malts are given a deep roast (like 21^st Amendment’s Back In Black).

Where it all began…British India.

The history of the IPA is, say it with me, muddy at best. The most common story is this one: Britain was colonizing India in the 18^th and 19^th centuries. The soldiers out there still wanted a fine beer to drink, and getting fine British ales out to the troops was problematic. Popular British ales had a tendency to spoil on the long trip over, so they needed something that was a little hardier. A gentleman named George Hodgson was the first to crack to code with October beer. It was well hopped and intended to be cellared for up to two years. It was considered “pale ale” because it was lighter than the porters and ales England was used to. It also traveled much better than normal ales because of the hops’ nature of keeping the beer protected from microbes. While Hodgson was the first to send such pale ales over to India, the breweries in Burton-on-Trent became the most popular. Because of certain impurities in the water there, the beer was a little more bitter than normal. The soldiers (and people of India) fell in love with the ale, and it became a staple. It was popular until nearly the 20^th century, when it was replaced with a mix of whiskies, gins, and teas. Mainly teas.

Over the years IPA has evolved into three distinct subcategories. American Style IPAs are more citrusy and herbal than their traditional counterparts, looking to go for big flavors. English Style IPAs are brewed in the traditional style, focusing more on the balance of the malt and English grown hops, and creating a well crafted and consistent beer. Belgian Style IPAs often employ American hops, but are bottle conditioned with Belgian yeast, giving the beer a little more cloudiness. American craft brewers have fallen in love with the style (and substyles) over the last few years, going out of their way to cross breed hops to try new flavors. They have imported hops from New Zealand, as well as emulated classic hops from England. The United States is one of the three largest growers of hops in the world, after Germany and Ethiopia. All of them have their characteristic bitterness, and that bitterness is measured in something called International Bittering Units, or IBUs. It is a scientific, chemical calculation. Sometimes it is listed on the bottle, depending on how proud the brewer is of the hoppiness in the beer. Most American Lagers, like Budweiser and Coors, have an IBU rating between 5 and 17. IPAs tend to range from 40-60, some going higher. Imperial stouts actually have higher IBUs (50-80), but the heavily roasted malt overpowers the bitter hops. Green Flash’s Palate Wrecker is an off the chart 100+ IBU (there is no good measurement for over 100, but their site claims 149 IBUs), and is available at the Van Buren Tap Room if you are looking for a challenge to your mouth, or you just hate your taste buds.

There is even a hashtag! They are serious about this…

Some of you may be unfamiliar with what beers to celebrate with, and that is okay. We also have a Snobby Beer Guy on staff, and I ran into him at the Kegerator. We have perks here at the office. When I asked him what some of the best IPAs are out there, he offered up Fat Head’s Head Hunter IPA and Brew Kettle’s White Raja. Ohio’s own Great Lakes Brewing Company also has a highly recommended IPA, Commodore Perry. Other highly recommended IPAs I have tried (and read about) include Flying Dog’s Raging Bitch (also banned in Michigan), Sam Adams’ Latitude 48, Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA, and Stone Brewing’s Sublimely Self-Righteous Ale. Our own local Dayton Beer Company is also brewing an IPA for you to enjoy. With the popularity of IPAs right now, any brew house will have a fine selection on hand. Some places you may look to are Chappy’s Tap Room, South Park

Tavern, and Boston’s Bistro. If you are looking to celebrate at home, you can stop at Belmont Party Supply for all of the beers mentioned above, and a few more that only their staff knows about.

If you have been hiding safely in the realm of lighter, sweeter beers, go out and wake your taste buds up with a few India pale ales. It took months of creativity and dedication to create something this complex, and you should go out and try them at least once. It is International IPA Day, and every beer deserves a chance at a good home. Cheers!

NOTE: This article originally noted that hops added alcohol content. After further research, that turned out to be false. Hops add bitter notes, antiseptic qualities, and balance.

This article originally ran in August of 2012 and we find it just as relevant today, only with many more IPA’s to choose from!

Haunted Houses, Pad Thai & FREE DVD CONTEST

August 1, 2014 By Dayton937 9 Comments

Chicken Pad Thai – A staple on the menu at Siam Pad Thai.

What does Pad Thai have in common with Haunted Houses? That’s easy. A Food Adventure, celebrating today’s nationwide DVD release of local horror film “Haunted House on Sorority Row.” Want to win a free autographed copy of this scary ass movie? All you have to do is comment below, and one winner will be chosen at random.

The Food Adventure Crew recently sat down with the film’s director, Henrique Couto and cast members Erin Ryan and Joni Durian..

The Food Adventure took place at Siam Pad Thai on Wilmington Pike, a favorite spot of both Big Ragu & Henrique Couto. We ate and talked about the film, various favorite foods and favorite horror flicks. Everyone was very excited about the release of the DVD. We let the noodles and the comments fly!

First, let’s start with the film HAUNTED HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW…… now available on DVD ! Want a copy?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Locally filmed thriller, with suspense, blood, guts and boobs.. check out the intense trailer HERE !

— Dayton’s own, Henrique Couto is making a name for himself in independent movie circles.

“Haunted House on Sorority Row” was filmed locally. The DVD is now available on Amazon.com, or win one by commenting below !

MUST SCREAMS:

— The DVD may be bought at these retailers: Amazon.com, Game Swap at the corner of Dorothy Lane and Woodman Dr. and FYE at the Fairfield Commons Mall.

— If Amazon needs to restock, you may have to wait a few days, but in the meantime order our favorite film, by Henrique, last year’s dvd Babysitter Massacre !

— You can find more of Henrique’s items HERE.

You may recall that The Big Ragu went to the theater showing of “Haunted House on Sorority Row” earlier this year at Englewood Cinemas.

What makes this film so special? Henrique says it is his scariest movie of all time. Joni believes the scenes of pure survival in the house, comes across strongly in the film. Erin thinks the psychological, role driven aspects of each character, gives the film its frightening feel. As for you the viewer, well you gotta a pick up a DVD and see for yourself.

We also got a chance to ask the group some questions about their favorite scary movies, restaurants and more !

See how you stack up to their answers:

Hope you didn’t eat any popcorn during the flick, we are about to eat. We also hope we didnt scare you with the spooky, locally made, must see movie.. if we did, just relax.

Coconut Soup – delicious and unique. Click to enlarge

Now let’s talk Thai – Oh yeah, we talk Thai.. we talk Thai gooooddd. *** SIAM PAD THAI *** to be exact!! Now can you deal with this?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Since 2008, owner “Fon,” has brought her recipes from past restaurants she owned like Ban Thai, and Yummy Burger

— Seating is limited to about 30 people in this little spot, located at 3027 Wilmington Pike

— Attractions include Thai Specialties and Sushi !

With our many visits to Siam Pad Thai, we have developed some favorites, we list as “must eats.”

MUST EATS:

— THAI TEA: Feel free to send us thank you cards for this tip. A mix between an iced tea and a milkshake, this is one of those “you gotta try this” items.

— COCONUT SOUP: Warming to the soul, this soup contains lime leaves, tomato, mushroom, lime juice and of course coconut milk. Perfect for a cold day, actually perfect for any day. A delicious taste of Thai.

Deep Fried Terminator Roll: Try it and “you’ll be back”

— SOFTSHELL CRAB: One of the only places we know of that serves this delicacy year round. It is a delicacy and dare we say Food Adventure on a plate. Get over your fear, because this crab is edible, shell and all !

— THE PAD THAI: It doesnt matter if you get chicken, shrimp or vegetable, this is the real deal and some of the best stuff in town. Our filmmaking pal Henrique Couto agrees and pegs this his favorite dish at his favorite restaurant.

— THE DEEP FRIED TERMINATOR SUSHI ROLL: Sushi roll with Cream cheese, cooked salmon, eel sauce, sesame seeds, then deep fried in a light batter. They must call it a Terminator Roll because once you try it… “You’ll be back.”

Honorable Mention: The Mango Dessert served with sticky rice and coconut milk is a good one. Also, seafood lovers will love the Seafood soups in a Clay Pot for a nice Food Adventure. There are a few variations of seafood,noodles, etc. so choose your interest.

****PRIZE CONTEST****

ONE lucky fan who comments and shares the story will get a free DVD copy of “Haunted House on Sorority Row,” autographed by the director Henrique Couto !
The winner will be chosen at random on Wednesday.

Thanks to Henrique, Erin and Joni for joining us on an official Food Adventure!

Had enough to eat? After seeing the film and eating at Siam Pad Thai, you will know the difference between a Columbian Neck Tie, and a Pad Thai.

If you want more of Food Adventures, then you MUST CLICK LIKE on Facebook HERE !!!

Until then, check out our sexy, scary and scrumpious photos from our visits over the years to SIAM PAD THAI !

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Best Reviewed Film of the Year – BOYHOOD – Opens at THE NEON!

July 31, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Everyone,

We’re pretty excited here at THE NEON. On Friday, August 1, we’re opening the best reviewed film of the year – BOYHOOD. We will also keep the amazing film IDA for select screenings.

Synopsis for BOYHOOD: Given 100% Reviews by countless critics and currently at 99% FRESH on rotten tomatoes, BOYHOOD is the best reviewed film of the year! “Filmed over 12 years with the same cast, Richard Linklater’s BOYHOOD is a groundbreaking story of growing up as seen through the eyes of a child named Mason (a breakthrough performance by Ellar Coltrane), who literally grows up on screen before our eyes. Starring Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette as Mason’s parents and newcomer Lorelei Linklater as his sister Samantha, BOYHOOD charts the rocky terrain of childhood like no other film has before. Snapshots of adolescence from road trips and family dinners to birthdays and graduations and all the moments in between become transcendent, set to a soundtrack spanning the years from Coldplay’s “Yellow” to Arcade Fire’s “Deep Blue.” BOYHOOD is both a nostalgic time capsule of the recent past and an ode to growing up and parenting. It’s impossible to watch Mason and his family without thinking about our own journey.” (taken from IFC Films press notes) Click this LINK to visit the official website.

On Sunday, August 3 at 1:00, SPAN Ohio will hold a one-time screening of THE HEATHCARE MOVIE. “Single Payer Action Network Ohio (SPAN Ohio) is proud to host THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE on the 49th anniversary of our own Medicare system. THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE is a 65 minute documentary that reveals the intensity of the political struggle that led to Canada’s universal medical care system, and exposes public relations campaigns that have been prevalent in the U.S. since the early 1900’s to dissuade the American public from supporting national health care. Every day people are dying or going bankrupt due to the ills of the United States system. Who are we in the face of this human tragedy? If you agree that people are more important than profits, then you must see this film. Admission is free and open to the public.” (taken from SPAN Ohio press notes)

“On Thursday, August 14 at 7:30 Boston Stoker is proud to present A FILM ABOUT COFFEE to the Dayton Area. The film, which first premiered in Seattle at the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), explores the world’s involvement and fascination with specialty coffee from crop to cup. It captures in-depth views on the current state of specialty coffee with footage from throughout the US, Africa, South America and Japan. Boston Stoker is a specialty coffee roaster and wholesaler that has operated out of Dayton, Ohio since 1973. The company has a long history with direct trade work within the coffee industry, focusing on Heart to Honduras.” (taken from Boston Stoker press notes) This screening will be an Ohio premiere! Tickets are currently available at THE NEON’s box office for $10 each. Click this LINK to find out more about the film. Click this LINK to visit Boston Stoker’s official site (where you can purchase tickets on-line).

The FilmDayton Film Festival is set for August 22-24. The full schedule has just been released and festival passes are now available on-line (single tickets will be available beginning July 31). Check out the line-up and purchase your pass at the festival’s Official Site. In addition to screenings that will be held at THE NEON, there are a number of other special programs happening downtown.

We hope to see you this weekend!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, August 1 – Thursday, August 7:

IDA (PG-13) 1 Hr 20 Min
Friday, Saturday: 12:20, 5:30
Sunday – Thursday: 5:30

BOYHOOD (R) 2 Hr 45 Min
Friday, Saturday: 1:00, 2:15, 4:30, 7:30, 8:00
Sunday: 1:00, 4:30, 7:30 8:00
Monday – Thursday: 2:15, 3:30, 7:00, 7:30

THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE (NR) 1 Hr 5 Min + Discussion
Sunday: 1:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
Aug 8 – I ORIGINS
Aug 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug 29 – LAND HO
Aug 29 – CALVARY
TBD – TRIP TO ITALY
TBD – LOVE IS STRANGE
TBD – ALIVE INSIDE
TBD – SKELETON TWINS

Eat me, I’m Celtic !

July 25, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Here’s to the 2014 Dayton Celtic Fest

Tonight, tomorrow and Sunday.. there is an Irish Food Adventure brewing on the streets of Dayton. It is the wildly popular Dayton Celtic Festival. Who better to tell you lasses and lads about it than The Food Adventure Crew?

Listen up as we give a tip of our cap to the festival for the good old Emerald Isle!

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— It is a street party celebrating Irish Heritage at RIVERSCAPE METRO PARK with dancing, music, beer and FOOD ! Admission is FREE

—FESTIVAL GOES FROM FRIDAY – SUNDAY !

Friday – 6:30pm – 10:30pm

Saturday – Noon – 10:30pm

Sunday – Noon – 5:30pm

— Want directions??? CLICK HERE !

A Cheeky Meat Pie is in your future

What to eat?? This isn’t our first blarney stone, so take our advice or we will hit you in the head with a Shillelagh.

So by “faith and begorrah,” here are our patented “must eats” !!

MUST EATS:

— REUBEN SANDWICH FROM CLADDAGH’s BOOTH: We love a good Reuben, and we have found a delicious one here! Served freshly grilled and hot, this is a big sandwich, that will fill you up.

— CHEEKY MEAT PIES: Whether you order the Distinguished Darby version, or another type, these pies are fantastic and perfect for “on the go eating.” Watch out! They are hot inside! Australian pies at an Irish Festival?? You betcha !

— IRISH BEER: There are the three types we recommentd – the lighter beer (HARP LAGER), the red beer (SMITHWICK’S), and the dark beer (GUINNESS). Or make Ireland proud. and go through all the colors of the rainbow, they say there is a pot of gold at the end….

— FISH AND CHIPS: High demand on these might mean a line, but it ensures you get a piping hot, fresh out of the fryer, batch of fish and chips. Whether you do tartar or vinegar, you will be glad you did some pub style sea fare.

— GRILLED SALMON SANDWICH from BROCK MASTERSONS: Looking for a lighter treat? Try one of these babies with or without a bun. The secret is the dill sauce topping, so ask for extra. Honorable mention goes to their crab cakes, which almost made the list. This is a Food Adventure all time fave.

Fish and Chips – Must Eats at the Celtic Festival

An important tip.. there is a dish called haggis at the festival, which traditionally is chopped up liver served inside pig intestines… we tried it last year. Once was enough for us. For some of you purists with adventurous pallets, go for it.

Hopefully we pointed you in the right direction for a weekend Food Adventure.

There is one more wee bit of advice we have about the festival, and that is make sure you stop in and listen to the music under the big white Riverscape tents. It makes the food and beer taste better too. Musical acts are flown in from Ireland for this event, so take advantage of it.

See you at the festival, please say “hi” to The Food Adventure Crew, and we will try to wave or shake hands while carrying beer and festival food.

Check out our gallery below for some killer food pics from Celtic Fests of yesteryear!
Want more from these leprechauns? Then like Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !

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Yo, Adrian! We Bit It !!

July 19, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The EB Pizza (Everything but Anchovies) – Click to Enlarge

Can you smell, what the Rocky’s is cooking?

That delicious aroma is coming from Rocky’s Pizza Ring, at 3273 Seajay Rd. in Beavercreek. Known to Beavercreek foodies for years, this Gem City original is nestled into the Beaver Valley Shopping Center, is behind Lofino’s Grocery. It is a little tough to find, but once you know about this little known secret, you will be back for more. In fact on their menu, the motto is “Once Found, Never Forgotten.”

Mama said knock you out with the scoop on Rocky’s Pizza Ring, so we’re gonna knock you out….
In this corner, we have The Big Ragu, the undisputed, undefeated Dayton Foodies in his Forties. It’s time for a Food Adventure, so ring the bell, and let’s get it on.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Fun atmosphere, where the dining tables are inside a boxing ring. There are also old articles on the wall about various fighters from the 1940’s-1970’s

— Owner/Manager Amy, comes in at 6am each day and makes all of the dough, fresh from scratch. It makes a big difference, you will see, in the taste.

Calzone with Pepperoni, Mushrooms and Green Peppers

— Amy also makes her own sausage & meatballs. She even makes her bread from scratch for Rocky’s menu selection of East Coast Style Subs.

— Family owned and operated since 1975, current ownership is 2nd generation. They still use the original pizza ovens for that great flavor!

— The hours are a bit tricky: Monday through Thursday, they are open 11am-2pm, then they close and reopen 5-10pm. Friday they stay open til 11pm, while Saturdays and Sundays hours are 11am-11pm, and 11am-10pm respectively.

Now lace up your gloves, you are about to go toe to toe with Rocky’s “Must Eats !” Wait, unlace the gloves, it makes it easier to eat…..

MUST EATS:

— THE EB PIZZA (Everything but anchovies): Want “deluxe” toppings? Then you want the EB PIZZA . Yo Mick, the main event is their pizza. Rocky’s pies are a thinner crust and cut into small squares. As we said, the fresh dough is key here. **TIP: Some of you who like a crispier crust may request them to cook it “well done.”

— THE PEPPERONI PIZZA: A good, ol’ classic. With Rocky’s dough, cheese and sauce combination, you cant go wrong. Take your mouthpiece out before eating.

Entering the ring, from Dayton, Ohio …..

— EAST COAST ITALIAN SUB: Their most popular sub, served with onions and Italian oil, provolone, with an option for lettuce and tomato too !

— THREE INGREDIENT CALZONE: Pick your own 3 fillings, and enjoy the fresh dough that holds it all together. This calzone is definitely fork and knife worthy.

— EAST COAST TURKEY SUB: Nothing fancy, just one of the best quick turkey sandwiches out there. The fresh bread makes you wanna hold the sandwich like a teddy bear.

— TACO PIZZA: Grilled hamburger meat, crumbled, mixed with Mexican spices, and topped with 2 kinds of cheese. It is then baked and finished with a topping of lettuce and tomatoes. Spicy, tasty and filling. This is a unique tasting pie, and one of the top taco pizzas we have encountered. A Food Adventure favorite.

The menu also includes spaghetti dinners, burgers, salads and hoagies. Rocky’s Pizza Ring is the place to go, to put your taste buds in training.

Taco Pizza at Rocky’s Pizza Ring

Here is also something that you need to know. Rocky’s has a FREE Stand up Comedy Night on the second MONDAY of each month. Also every Monday is 1/2 price beer pitchers.

What are the future plans for Rocky’s? They are looking to get craft beer on tap, and partner with brushes and barstools for future events.

We have known about this place since the days of bellbottoms, and continue to get our fix every few weeks. It astounds us that so many people are still not aware this place exists. Don’t be one of the those people!

Whether you are sitting in the dining room ring, or grabbing some pizza to go, we hope you try this champ a try. The ownership works heard to deliver freshness every day. Rocky’s Pizza Ring in Beavercreek, will put your hunger down for the count!

Check out our KNOCKOUT photo gallery below, from our numerous visits to Rocky’s Pizza Ring !

Want to catch all of the jabs and uppercuts in the Dayton Food Arena? Then jump on Facebook and “like” Food Adventures, by clicking HERE.

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National Becomes Local: Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine

July 13, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Bob Medlin & Jordan Frank of Longhorn Steakhouse, volunteer time & resources to many Dayton charities

We just had to tell you. We just had to tell you about something happening in your community that you have no idea about.

As you know, 95% of our weekly Food Adventure articles feature local mom and pop establishments serving up great food.

But sometimes, there is a need to mention something that is going on at a Nationally owned restaurant. In this case, no one is more deserving than Bob Medlin, the manager of Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, located at 1921 West Dorothy Lane.

We know,we know…. ” the dreaded chain restaurant,” but there is one thing you local purists can’t ignore. It is the constant donation of resources and volunteering that Bob Medlin and his staff give to the Miami Valley. The Big Ragu and Crew volunteer at a lot of charity events, and we notice that Bob Medlin and Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine are involved in almost every charity group that we support. The staff believes in not only serving quality affordable food, but they go an extra step in volunteering for many charitable organizations.

Food Adventures joined forces with Longhorn Steakhouse Moraine, to support the March of Dimes Walk for Babies. We ate at their pancake breakfasts that supported the Sandy Hook Elementary victims, and the Mobley Family who endured terrible losses in a local fire. The Big Ragu and Crew have also run into the Longhorn staff at the annual AMBUCS Chili cookoff, that benefits Dayton citizens with various disabilities, by providing them equipment to become more mobile.

After talking with the management and the staff, we realized, this was just the tip of the iceberg. Just some of the charities helped by Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, either directly or indirectly through volunteering staff, or donating resources, food or supplies, are the following organizations:

Food For Kids (Vandalia)

Dayton Hospice Walk

Snuggled Up Inc. – bedding for Dayton area kids

The Greater Dayton Apartment Association’s Rent Foundation – prevents homelessness in Dayton, by paying rent for families in crisis.

Shoes for the Shoeless and Brief Blessings – helping Dayton area children with basic needs such as shoes and underwear

Ronald McDonald House of Dayton – Staff volunteered to rake leaves, clean up yard

Dayton Circles – dedicated to ending poverty

Back2Back Ministries – Helping local orphans and abandoned children

Kiser Elementary– helping educate refugee children who have settled in Dayton.

Christ’s Church of Bellbrook’s – various charity programs

Relay for Life Charities from American Cancer Society– pancake breakfasts to raise money

Bob & the Longhorn Steakhouse Staff volunteering at the March of Dimes Walk for Babies, and giving out cake

Apex Church charity Rib Dinner to benefit Relay For Life Charities

Donated supplies for Apex Church missionary charity support of 6 Mexican orphans, and 1 orphangirl in India

Big Brothers Big Sisters program of the Greater Miami Valley – Helping Dayton children reach their potential

Dayton Life Enrichment Center – providing groceries and meals to needy families of Dayton

Target Dayton Ministries – serving meals to Dayton’s homeless and poor

Miami Valley Womens Center – helping new moms and dads with loss of an infant

Harvest House – helping rehabilitate females who have been abused, or dealing with depression

Victory Project – helping Dayton youth in the Juvenile system rebuild themselves and stay crime free

Miracle League of Dayton – providing special needs children a baseball field where they can play

These are just some charities off the top of the staff’s heads. The thing is, they don’t toot their own horn, they just help out the community in so many ways. And it is contagious. As we talked to the staff, we realize they all want to help and get involved, because they see how their company has affected lives for the positive.

And so many lives have been affected by the Longhorn Steakhouse staff. We have yet to mention donations to local elementary schools, or events for the Fairmont track football, basketball , and volleyball teams! They even had volunteers help cater a prom dinner.

Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine, holds Pancake Breakfasts for various charities, here is one of our delicious plates that we devoured

Longhorn Steakhouse of Moraine events have benefited local pet adoption companies and local cancer survivors. There have been Dayton Demonz hockey team charity work, volunteer staff car washes for charities. Bob Medlin and his co-workers have helped donatefor benefits for cystic fibrosis and leukemia. They have helped local feeding centers, local food banks, and helped organize local clothing donations.

Although they have a full staff supporting and volunteering for many of these events, there are 3 managers at Longhorn who have instilled and lead this philanthropist philosophy with their employees. The first person we have already mentioned, is manager Bob Medlin. The other two, are managing partner Jordan Frank and Rita Hayworth, fundraising specialist. Together they provide a great, caring work atmosphere of giving back to the community.

So the next time you are in the mood for some steakhouse type food, you may want to mosey on over to the Longhorn Steakhouse in Moraine and keep paying it forward. You may even get to see Bob Medlin, and tell him thank you for their community support. Let him know you saw his charity work “shout out” on Food Adventures. Bob and his staff are very humble, and the staff never boasts about their charity work. They participate enthusiastically and take pride in helping various needs in the Dayton area. We are grateful for fellow citizens like this and want them to know, we greatly appreciate all you do. Thanks for making a local difference with a national company.

Please view our gallery below of photos inside Longhorn Steakhouse and the staff volunteering at various events.

Also, make sure you become a Food Adventure fan on Facebook, by CLICKING HERE TO “LIKE” US.

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Americana Festival: 5k, FOOD, Fireworks & Fox

July 2, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Pork Chops on the Grill

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

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

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

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

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

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

Harvest Mobile Food Truck will be at the Festival

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

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

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

— EL MESON FOOD TRUCK: Empanadas to die for !

— MOM’S HOMEMADE GOODIES: Incredible Soft Pretzels

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

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

— OLD TYME POPCORN: Kettle Corn experts !

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

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

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

El Meson will be at the Street Fair

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

— BLACKJACK GRILL: The best grilled porkchops in Dayton

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our Americana Food Photos below !

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40 Reasons I Love Dayton, OH

July 1, 2014 By Guest Contributor

This guest post comes to us from Elizabeth Caraway, a Dayton blogger perhaps better known as Super Veggie Mom, who shares health and wellness information, recipes that have worked for her, tips about saving money, and angst over parenting struggles. She’s an Air Force veteran, former NASM-certified personal trainer, and a distance runner with almost a dozen half-marathons under her Adidas. She’s the mother of two young girls and married to a scary-smart engineer who says that when they’re not watching Yo Gabba Gabba, they enjoy theater and the arts. We hope you enjoy her post as much as we did.

I tend to gush about the Dayton, OH area. I grew up in the military and then served in the military (and am now back in the Reserves), so I have lived my fair share of places. I still stand by my assertion that you can be happy wherever you live, but the Dayton area (aka the Miami Valley) has been so amazing in so many ways that I am constantly talking about how much I love it. I’ve even begun sending my parents and sister house listings in hopes that they’ll find a place they adore and move here. Then it truly would be perfect.

A friend recently lamented the cost of homes in her area and I told her she should consider a move here. Nice, affordable housing is just one of many perks. Then I jokingly told her that, if she wanted, I could send her an entire list of reasons that Dayton is great. She said, “I’d like to see that list.” I posted my list, initially 15 reasons, on Facebook and was immediately flooded with more reasons my local friends love it here. I want to share the list we’ve come up with.

Regarding places to visit, I’ve tried to restrict it to places less than an hour away; otherwise, this would be a “Reasons I Love Ohio” post. Incidentally, I do, and I subscribe to Ohio magazine, which reinforces monthly why this is a great state to live in.

So without further ado, in no particular order:

40 Reasons I Love Dayton, OH

1.   Broadway (and other amazing) shows at the state-of-the art Schuster Center (ex. we saw Wicked)
2.   The (free) National Museum of the United States Air Force
3.   Public (free) beaches easily accessible (Caesar’s Creek State Park, Kiser Lake, Cowan Lake) as well as hiking
4.   An extensive park system (the Five Rivers Metropark) as well as dozens of city and county parks (for example, our small suburb has 36 parks)
5.   Wonderful farmer’s markets (like 2nd St Market with entertainment on Saturdays and Oakwood Farmer’s Market)
6.   The Dayton Art Institute
7.   IKEA and Jungle Jim’s are just 45 min away
8.   King’s Island Amusement Park is also about 45 min away
9.   Scene 75, the largest indoor entertainment center in the country, is here
10. The Newport Aquarium is about an hour away
11. Dayton is an easy drive from Cincinnati, Columbus, and Indianapolis
12. A surprising amount of good restaurants (although our faves aren’t on the list)
13. It has an international airport, and is also close to other major cities so the prices are competitive
14. Tons of shopping between the multiple malls
15. Major concerts and shows come to the Wright State Nutter Center (we’ve seen Rascall Flatts and Transiberian Orchestra)
16. Extensive, interconnected library systems (e.g. Dayton Metro library, Greene County library)
17. Close proximity to two top-rated zoos, Cincinnati Zoo and Columbus Zoo
18. Home of the popular Class A minor league baseball team the Dayton Dragons
19. Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm, a working dairy farm with restaurant, bakery, miniature golf, driving range, and batting cage
20. Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, a a children’s museum that focuses on science and offers a “mini-zoo” of live animals native to Ohio
21. Dorothy Lane Market, regularly rated the best (independent) gourmet grocery store in the country
22. Ohio named the cheapest state in the country by TIME magazine; Dayton has a low cost of living
23. Home of the popular United States Air Force Marathon
24. Tons of local festivals, found here, that include everything from the Troy Strawberry Festival to the Beavercreek Popcorn Festival
25. Largest system of bike trails in the country
26. The Neon, a movie theater that shows independent films, as well as drive-in movie theaters
27. Numerous top-rated school districts as well as a large homeschooling community
28. Affordable colleges like Wright-State University and Sinclair
29. An abundance of thrift stores and flea markets, including massive Treasure Aisles and Trader’s World, about 30 min away
30. Carillon Historical Park, a 65-acre park and museum containing historic buildings and exhibits on history of tech & Dayton (as well as a killer carousel for kids)
31. Skydiving available in Middletown
32. Yellow Springs, home to a huge arts community
33. Sunwatch Indian Village and Archaeological Park
34. Kids Bowl Free and discounted movie theaters during summers
35. (Usually) moderate traffic compared to other cities
36. Dayton Air Show
37. The Fraze Pavillion hosts top musicians during the warmer months
38. Dayton Performing Arts Alliance provides top talent in ballet, opera, and the Philharmonic Orchestra
39. America’s Packard Museum
40. The Oregon District, a scenic downtown Dayton area renowned for its architecture, atmosphere, and restaurant/bar nightlife

As I write this, I have only lived in the area for 3 years. I am certain that I have missed aspects of the area’s awesomeness. Feel free to add them in the comments.

Who’d You Rather: EL TORO or El RANCHO GRANDE ? +Win Free Dinner

June 29, 2014 By Dayton937 26 Comments

Chicken Fajitas from El Toro

Again, Food Adventures asks who’d you rather get it on with. This time a plate from El Toro or a plate from El Rancho Grande?

In this battle for the border, we know Daytonians are picking sides and drawing their line in the margarita salt. Comment below on which of these two Mexican Restaurants you like better and why ! One winner will be chosen at random and will win dinner with The Food Adventures Crew at their favorite, either El Toro or El Rancho. You will act as a referee for us as we also invite our biggest critic, the witty Michael R Hawk ! Let the insults fly !

Now, before you Dayton foodie purists jump all over our white cheese sauce… We love Mexican Restaurants Taqueria Mixteca (feature article) and Taco Loco (feature article) as our personal faves. Since we have featured those more obscure restaurants that most people have not been to, we decided for a more familiar fight…

Sound the bell, it’s time to rock the pinata !

First off, margaritas are chick drinks, so we will let the girls sound off and fight it out over who has the best margaritas of the two places.

Both places have fantastic service and tie in that category. The tacos, and chimichangas are impossible to tell apart. Also, the desserts like flan and fried ice cream are pretty much the same at both locations.

Del Mar Trio at El Rancho Grande features Lobster, Shrimp and Fish

As for everything else.. Here is how the Food Adventures judges saw it.

JAX’S VOTE: EL TORO

— Jax says “The Salsa at El Toro is Better.” The taste and chunkiness is second to none. This gives El Toro an early knockout in my book.

— Hungry Jax says “El Toro’s Fajitas Reign Supreme.” The fajitas at El Toro are the best. I love fajitas. Whether you get, steak, chicken or pollo (fish) fajitas, they are very filling and huge portions.

— Jax says “El Toro Gets the Slight Edge in Carnitas Tacos and Enchiladas. To put it bluntly, these two restaurants have a bunch of dishes, that under the cheese sauce, none of us can tell apart from each other. I like pork tacos and enchiladas, and El Toro is better by the slightest of margins, and the consistency is good across the 9 locations. So, El Toro gets my vote by low blow.”

THE BIG RAGU’S VOTE: EL RANCHO GRANDE

Beef Tacos from El Toro (we added their terrific salsa)

—The Big Ragu says, “The Del Mar Trio dish at El Rancho Grande is the champ of both menus. A must eat! Grilled lobster, tilapia and shrimp served on a fajita plate? FIGHT OVER !

— The Big Ragu says “El Rancho has Pacifico beer on tap. I have never seen that beer anywhere in my life, other than in bottles. Also, they feature Negra Modelo on tap. The other place is too punch drunk to beat that!” El Rancho Grande has similar draft beer choices at the 8 locations from North Dayton to Middletown.

— The Big Ragu says “El Rancho’s Chilles Rellenos are a deal maker.” Stuffed with cheese, these huge poblano peppers are melt in your mouth delicious. Stick a fork in them, they’re done!

Sound off and tell us which one you like, here is your chance for a free Food Adventure !

***** FREE DINNER WITH THE FOOD ADVENTURES CREW *****

LET’S HEAR FROM THE PEOPLE ! It is now your turn to comment on “Who’d you Rather : El Toro or El Rancho Grande?”

Pacifico Clara on Draft at El Rancho Grande? YES! YES! YES!

Hold onto your sombrero, muchacho! One person who comments on the story below will win dinner at their favorite, either El Rancho Grande or El Toro with Food Advntures! They will be joined by Food Adventure’s biggest critic, Michael R. Hawk, for an interesting evening of fun and food.

Want to see our WHO’D YOU RATHER stories over the past 3 years? Click on the individual links below !
Who’d You Rather? FRICKERS or ROOSTERS?

Who’d You Rather? CHIPOTLE or QDOBA?

Who’d You Rather? FIVE GUYS or SMASHBURGER?

Check out our photo gallery below for some great photos of El Toro and El Rancho Grande offerings. Dont’ forget to join the thousands on Facebook who “like” Food Adventures by clicking HERE !

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FED UP and SUPERMENSCH Open Friday at THE NEON!

June 18, 2014 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

Once again, we’re holding onto BELLE and CHEF this week, but we’re also going to start two new documentaries. FED UP is one that several of you have been asking about…and it’s currently only slated to play for one week (one screening per day). Hurry down if you need to see it! In addition, we will play a documentary that many of you have seen advertised before our current two hits – SUPERMENSCH: THE LEGEND OF SHEP GORDON, directed by Mike Myers (you may have seen Shep Gordon on CBS Sunday Morning a couple weeks ago or even on David Letterman last night).

Synopsis for FED UP: “Far more of us get sick from what we eat than anyone has ever realized. This potent expose uncovers the food industry’s dirty secrets. This exploration reveals how, in the wake of media attention, public fascination with appearance and government policies pushing for change, generations of Americans will live shorter lives.” “For the past 30 years, everything we thought we knew about food and exercise is dead wrong. FED UP is the film the food industry doesn’t want you to see. From Katie Couric, Laurie David (Oscar winning producer of AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH) and director Stephanie Soechtig, FED UP will change the way you eat forever.” (taken from RADiUS-TWC) Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

Synopsis for SUPERMENSCH: THE LEGEND OF SHEP GORDON: “Shep Gordon is the consummate Hollywood insider. Though he isn’t a household name, Gordon has become a beacon in the industry, beloved by the countless stars he has encountered throughout his storied career. Shep is known for managing the careers of Alice Cooper as well as stints with Blondie, Luther Vandross and Raquel Welch, among others – a career that began with a chance encounter in 1968 with Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix. He even found time to invent the “Celebrity Chef.” Though the chef as star is part of the culture now, it took Shep’s imagination, and his moral outrage at how the chefs were being treated, to monetize the culinary arts into the multi-billion dollar industry it is today. Personal friends with the Dalai Lama through his philanthropic endeavors with the Tibet Fund and the guardian of four children, Gordon’s unlikely story will be told by those who know him best, his pals, including Alice Cooper, Michael Douglas, Sylvester Stallone, Anne Murray, Willie Nelson, Emeril Lagasse and more.” (RADiUS-TWC) Click on this LINK to visit the film’s official facebook page.

Don’t forget about Start Freedom Dayton’s screening of TRICKED on Thursday evening at 7:30. More details can be found on our website – www.neomovies.com.

The Montgomery County Food Policy Coalition is hosting a screening of FOOD PATRIOTS this Saturday, June 21 at 3:00. “Touched by their teenage son’s battle with a foodborne superbug, filmmakers Jeff & Jennifer Spitz document their family’s struggle to raise backyard chickens, grow food, and transform into Food Patriots. FOOD PATRIOTS features people from all walks of life who are trying to change the way Americans eat and buy food, and educate the next generation of consumers.” Admission is free and open to the public – to save a spot, please RSVP to Emily Bradford at (937)225-6470 or [email protected]

On Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30, THE NEON is happy to host a one-night screening of the new documentary TO BE TAKEI. This is part of Dayton PRIDE’s month-long LGBT Pride celebration. “Over seven decades, actor and activist George Takei boldly journeyed from a WWII internment camp, to the helm of the starship Enterprise, to the daily news feeds of five million Facebook fans. Join George and his husband Brad on this star’s playful and profound trek for life, liberty, and love. Best known for playing Sulu on the original Star Trek TV series and six movies that followed, George Takei is unlikely social media royalty. Unofficially dubbed the King of Facebook, he counts over 5 million fans in his online empire – including Trekkies, Howard Stern listeners, and the LGBTQ community – who devour his quirky mix of kitten jokes, Star Trek references, heartfelt messages, and sci-fi/fantasy memes…” (taken from press notes) Tickets, just $8 each, are now available at our box office.

On Thursday, June 26 at 7:30, we will host a preview screening of the new short film FOR FRANCIS. “When Matt Flynn (David Beck) discovers that his son Francis’s second grade teacher Ms. Walker (Kathy Patterson) gave his son a dress to wear, Matt becomes enraged and confronts the school. This very special preview screening on June 26th is in large part for donors in the Dayton area who contributed to the FOR FRANCIS fundraising campaign last fall. The film has already captured the attention of many prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including Emmy Award Winner Tim Gunn, who is one of the film’s Executive Producers. The character of ‘Ms. Walker’ in FOR FRANCIS is inspired by David Beck’s junior high English teacher, Denise Walker, of St. Charles School, in Kettering, Ohio. Although a work of fiction, the story of FOR FRANCIS is inspired by the real life Mrs. Walker’s positive influence on David’s life. Please RSVP to [email protected] for free tickets. Donations are welcome, and walk-ins will be accepted for $7. The donations will be used to help cover the cost of theater rentals and festival submissions.” (taken from Press Notes)

Ryan Benner will premiere the 4th installment in the SAVOR THE FLAVOR series (locally produced roller-blading videos) on Saturday, June 28 at 10pm. Ticket, $5 each, are available now at THE NEON’s box office. “Featuring blading from: Aaron Pyle, Tri Tri-Rudolf, Reed Huston, Andrew Thompson, Dan Mikesell,Alex Papalios & Ryan Benner.” In addition, Benner will also screen Hawke Trackler’s CRUISIN’ 4 A BRUISIN’ – featuring Kyle Wood, Ben Poling, Stefan Brandow, Jimmy Spetz, Matt Lyon, Jesse Soda, Hawke Trackler, Greg Preston, Cody Reffner & Bradley Wilson.” (taken from Benner’s Press Notes)

Things aren’t looking good for the potential screening of STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS – tentatively set for Sunday, June 29 at 5:15…only 5 tickets have been reserved. If 50 tickets aren’t reserved by this Friday, the screening will not move forward. If you want to see this film screen at THE NEON, click this official LINK to reserve your ticket…and please help spread the word. “STAND CLEAR OF THE CLOSING DOORS tells the story of Ricky, a 13-year old boy with Asperger’s Syndrome who gets lost one day in the New York City subway system. While his mother frantically searches for him above ground, the sensory-sensitive Ricky is exposed to the cacophony, eccentricity, and menace found in New York’s underground (including some scenes shot during Hurricane Sandy, which came to figure into the film’s story), resulting in a truly authentic view into both the wonders and the horrors of what lies below.”

I’m so glad to announce that we have added IDA to our “Coming Soon” list. This little gem of a film was one of the best films I saw at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival – right up there with 12 YEARS A SLAVE and PHILOMENA. Next time you’re in, I’ll hope to have trailers running.

Thanks for your continued interest and enthusiastic support.

We hope to see you soon!

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Friday, June 20 – Thursday, June 26:

BELLE (PG) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 5:00
Monday – Thursday: 2:50

CHEF (R) 1 Hr Min
Friday, Saturday: 2:40, 7:20, 9:45
Sunday: 2:40, 7:20
Monday & Tuesday: 5:10, 7:30
Wednesday: 5:10
Thursday: 5:10, 8:30

SUPERMENSCH (R) 1 Hr 25 Min
Friday: 1:00, 3:00, 7:15, 9:15
Saturday: 1:00, 7:15, 9:15
Sunday: 1:00, 3:00, 7:15
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 7:30

FED UP (PG) 1 Hr 32 Min
Friday – Thursday: 5:15

FOOD PATRIOTS (NR) 1 Hr 14 Min
Saturday: 3:00

TO BE TAKEI (NR) 1 Hr 34 Min
Wednesday: 7:30

FOR FRANCIS (NR) approx. 30 Min.
Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
June 27 – OBVIOUS CHILD
June 27 – JODOROWKY’S DUNE
July 4 – A HARD DAY’S NIGHT
TBD – IDA
TBD – WORDS AND PICTURES
July 25 – THIRD PERSON
Aug 8 – BOYHOOD
Aug 15 – MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
Aug 29 – LAND HO

New condos on the block: The McCormick

June 15, 2014 By Teri Lussier 1 Comment

More residential options are coming to downtown Dayton, which is good news as more people living downtown should bring more business, more activity, more stuff! This time it’s the old Park Place apartments on E 1st St that are being converted into urban loft-style condos, and the building will be called, appropriatelyenough, The McCormick.

Baseball lovers, Dayton Dragons fans take note- 5 units have views of the 5/3 Field, but because the building is in a relatively open part of the city, all units have unrestricted urban views. The McCormick lofts are listed by Steve Seboldt at Sibcy Cline (937-224-1234). Steve is very familiar with all the condo developments in downtown Dayton and tells me one of the features he most enjoys about the McCormick is the location. He spent one evening watching a game from the unit on the fourth floor. “It’s like you are right in the stadium,” he said.

Steve hails from Chicago and has an appreciation for urban loft living. He describes the condos as “laid out as true lofts with exposed beams, bare brick exterior walls and open duct work. Unique feature of these lofts include sliding “barn doors” especially in the front bed room which is next to the open living area. This feature, in addition to being a neat “architectural” loft feature, allows the front bedroom to be kind of an extension of the living area since most of these sliding doors have wider openings than normal doors. This allows for a flexibility in living space where the front bedroom can be an office, a tv room or a second bedroom.” Thefloorplans I saw had tons of character with a nice blend of industrial and warmth- gorgeous exposed brick, fantastic glass shelving, warm wood finishes. The large windows let in lots of natural light as well.

Interior finishes can be upgraded, but each unit as is has bamboo flooring in all main living areas, carpet in bedrooms, and durable man-made flooring in baths and kitchen area. Kitchens have stainless appliances. To make the unit even more flexible, each kitchen has a island/breakfast counter that is on casters so it can be re-positioned throughout the condo for more flexibility when entertaining. That’s a great touch, and with the “barn door” sliders, you have more option for living and entertaining in each unit.

Everyone wants to know about parking and security. Seboldt says “Parking is fenced, and each unit gets 2 assigned spots. The parking lot will be restriped and an architectural fence will replace current fence.” There is also an electronic card key access and a keypad protected elevator.

So. Really, what’s the neighborhood like? Downtown Dayton is your neighborhood so it’s baseball, performing arts, 2nd St Public Market, Riverscape, the new Water Street development. It’s a great location to be close to everything. Floor plans and prices will vary from unit to unit depending on number of bedrooms andupgrades, but Steve says “Pricing is way less than you would expect to pay for this type loft with this location.” Currently, pricing is listed as $56,000- $187,000, which make these a great option for anyone who is looking not only for a primary home, but also a 2nd home, and for empty-nesters looking to move to downtown.

You can find out more information at the Sibcy Cline website, or talk to your Realtor about seeing one today!

Warped Wing & Jimmie’s Ladder 11 Team up for Food Adventure Event July 31st

June 12, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Dayton’s own brewery, Warped Wing!

It is time to “GET WARPED” at JIMMIES LADDER 11 in July, with a one-night-only, 5 course Food Adventure ! Mark your calendars for July 31st and get your tickets before they sell out !

Only Food Adventures could help deliver such a night. For the first time ever, Dayton’s own WARPED WING BREWING COMPANY will team with Dayton’s own Ladder 11 for and exclusive event!

For all of you who have always wanted to go on a full blown Food Adventure, here’s your chance!

WHAT FOOD: 5 Course dinner at JIMMIE’s LADDER 11. This meal will feature some special menu items, presented and paired, especially for this night.

WHAT DRINK: 3 beers on tap from Dayton’s WARPED WING BREWING CO. paired with 3 food courses and each attendee gets a Warped Wing souvenir pint glass !

MENU FOR THE NIGHT:

COURSE 1: Jimmie’s Homemade Gumbo

COURSE 2: The Cornerstone Salad paired with Ermal’s Belgian Cream Ale from Warped Wing

COURSE 3: Roast Beef Po’ Boy Sandwich paired with Warped Wing’s Flying Rye Pale Ale

COURSE 4: 10 Ton Pulled Pork Quesadilla’s paired with Warped Wing’s 10 Ton Stout

COURSE 5: Double Chocolate Cupcakes topped with 10 Ton Chocolate Gnache.

Jimmie’s Ladder 11, Five course meal, 1 night only

**** Also a SPECIAL AFTER DINNER KEG TAPPING of a NEW WARPED WING BEER – so fresh, we don’t even know yet what the brew will be! The tapping will feature special drink prices on pints !

You can also expect The Big Ragu to pass out some samples of a favorite Jimmie’s Food Truck item.

WHEN: THURSDAY NIGHT, JULY 31st at 6:30pm

COST: $30 per person (pre-pay only) and that includes the tip !!!! Tickets may only be bought online here. We are expecting another sellout, so get your tickets now !

WHAT ELSE: Door prizes, gift cards, t-shirt giveaways, souvenir pint glass, meet and greet with Jimmie and the Ladder 11 family, and a look at the brand new Jimmie’s food truck with The Big Ragu!

Don’t miss this unique, one-of-a-kind Food Adventure! See you at Jimmie’s in July !!

BUY TICKETS Now– limited seating available, when spots are gone, they are gone !

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