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Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

De'Lish

Wright Dunbar Food Hall to Open Mon, July 25th

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Dayton’s first-ever food hall development is revitalizing the Historic Wright and Dunbar District, and bringing opportunities to the community, will officially open its doors to the public on July 25th at 7 am for coffee and Soca will offer breakfast options followed by lunch from all restaurants starting at 11 am. The six- restaurant collective is made up of Illy’s Fire Pizza, The Lumpia Queen, De’lish, Grind House Coffee Co, Soca, and Taco Street Co- along with an operating bar. Each of these businesses offers diverse cuisine and a unique concept.

Grind House Coffee Co

“West Social Tap and Table operations have been in progress since 2020, and the perseverance is finally paying off”, says Cheryl Dillin, Chief Brand Officer with Dillin, LLC, the managing partner of the building. “We have developed a very special bond with our tenants, and while it may seem like an unlikely famILLY (referring to ILLY’s Pizza and their branding of famILLY), the respect and admiration I have for these entrepreneurs and the steps they are taking to make their neighborhood what they want it to be is the definition of strong, brave and honorable – true community famILLY in its highest form. I am proud to be their partner and my heart will sincerely smile watching them succeed.”

ILLY’s Pizza

The Food Hall property is a 6,400 sq feet space located across the street from the National Aviation Heritage Museum at 1100 W. Third Street. Dillin, Financial, Clous Road Partners, and Wright and Dunbar Inc are partners in real estate. Total development costs were over $2 million dollars. This project is the first phase in a planned series of Opportunity Zone investments within the City of Dayton. The projects aim to enrich the area and bring business opportunities to the people in the community. Dillin/Clous are renovating three additional buildings on 3rd street in the Wright Dunbar neighborhood

W. Social’s purpose is to support the local community in a grassroots operation. This social space cultivates a sense of community by bringing local small businesses to an area that is otherwise a food desert. It creates a space where the neighborhood can gather and socialize.

SOCA

The restaurants will operate 7 days a week from 7 am to 10 pm. Limited Breakfast, Full lunch, dinner, and drinks will be available every day- and special menu items will be offered on occasion. This space will also hold events including “The West Social Block Party” on August 5th. These events will include live music, food and drinks, additional vendors, open invite guest lists -and partial revenue generated towards donations. The entire community is enthusiastically welcomed. WestSocialTapAndTable.com will have the latest up-to-date restaurants, ordering information, menu, hours and special events.

John Gower, the president of Wright-Dunbar Inc, said “West Social helps to elevate the concept of West Third Street as a West Dayton Creative Corridor. Leveraging passion, vision, need, diversity, tenacity, and love with Social Entrepreneurship. This is another piece of the amenity puzzle that will support neighborhood growth and development in West Dayton.” John is a citizen of West Dayton, and he is very invested in creating prosperity in the neighborhood. “Although the food hall is a single building, the impact that it will have on the people involved will be enormous. Together with our tenants, we see the potential of the neighborhood and we are willing to invest to see it thrive.” added Larry Dillin. “It is always our goal to enrich the neighborhoods beyond the borders of our projects.”

The tenants in the space all started as small food trucks, now expanding their brand and physical location to be a part of W. Social. Anthony Thomas from Taco Street Co. states “I am excited to bring life to the Wright Dunbar area.” while Bill from Grind House Coffee Co. explained that “West Social solves the (food desert) issue with the best brands in the city.” Cathy Roberts, co-owner of Lumpia Queen expanded on that idea by stating “the food hall is an opportunity to work alongside amazing people and cuisines.”

De’Lish

Despite the obstacles faced throughout the developmental stages of the project- Rob Barry, the general manager, has stepped up to make this opening possible. He exclaimed “I am so excited to be part of an amazing team! Everyone has worked so hard for this moment and we cannot wait to bring delicious food, amazing cocktails, and fresh coffee to this great community.”

West Social Tap and Table is the next step of the revitalization process of Dayton’s Wright and
Dunbar Historic District. It will bring vibrant social life to the community by offering a unique experience for its customers. The opening is coming on July 25th- and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Mims will take place at 11am. A Grand Opening Block party will be held on Friday, August 5th. It is open to the public and will include live music and additional neighborhood food trucks.

W. Social Tap & Table

1100 W Third Street
Dayton, OH 45402

Open 7 days a week
7 am to 10 pm

De’Lish Announces the End is Near

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We can’t say we’re surprised at the latest news from De’Lish Cafe on North Main Street.  Back in May they announced:

 

De’Lish Cafe will be closed for normal business from May 9th- June 12th.  We will be open for private events and functions only.

This was a signal to most that a big change was coming. Then today owner Jasmine Brown posted the following message today on her Facebook page:
“As I am sitting here writing this, I am tearing up. This message is to let everyone know that De’Lish will be closing July 31, 2018 for good.
My family and I have given this city 8 long and hard years of our lives. We have had good times and we have had bad times.
It is time for us to move on to try something different. I have prayed over this decision for the last few months. I must say that I have been happier and less stressed out while taking this time off. Originally we were going to open back up today, but instead we will be opening Sunday, July 1, 2018 to give everyone one last month of De’Lish. 

In the coming weeks I would love to hear what menu items my guests would like to see as we will have a limited menu….

We would like to say thank you to everyone that has spent one red cent at our establishment. You have made it possible for me to not only take care of my family, but for me to be able to give back to my community which is a true blessing.”
From there she went on to share how the business was not her dream:
When my husband came to me with the idea of wanting to open a restaurant I said “NO!” The best thing I could’ve ever done was to listen to him and be submissive to his wants. For that I am forever thankful, grateful and humbled.
When her husband and business partner Willie Hutson Jr passed away in March of 2016 the fate of the business was in Jasmine’s hands. “Running a business is no easy task, especially when your helpmate is gone. I have tried for the last two years,” she shared. 
Her post ends with an invite to visit during their final month:

“At the end of July we will have one BIG DE’LISH PARTY and party like we’ve never partied before! I invite  you into our home for one last month, one last time, one last meal..
Thank you all for inviting us into your homes, lives and stomachs!
We will forever be indebted….Love Always,
Jasmine, Evian & Willie III”
As a former restaurateur, I understand exactly how difficult this decision was to come to and I applaud Jasmine for the years of dedication and service she gave to De’Lish and the community and wish her well on the next chapter in her life.

Favorite ‘Kids Eat Free’ Places in Dayton

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Still feeling it in the pocketbook from all those back to school clothes and supplies?  Then listen up, because we have some Food Adventure scoop for you.

We have compiled a list of The Big Ragu’s and Crew’s favorite “Kids Eat Free” places.  Gather up the gang, but make sure you know these basic guidelines:

— Generally each “free kid’s meal” is earned with 1 paying adult.  So if you are in the Brady Bunch, it looks like only Bobby and Cindy get free grub.  Well, unless you bring Alice and Sam the Butcher.

— Also, there are age limits on the “kids” (typically 10 and under).  Don’t expect your Senior Prom King son to get a zero cost meal anytime soon.  Make him mow some lawns or something.

Without further ado,  here are our favorite KIDS EAT FREE spots in the Dayton area.

Whether your kids are angels or brats, it won’t cost you a dime at these Miami Valley eateries:

STEAK THYME: Kids eat free Wednesdays after 5pm at this underrated restaurant in Kettering.  May we suggest a cheesesteak?  If not, how about a burger or gyro ?

LA PINATA:  Niño’s eat free every Sunday at this hot spot in Centerville.  Kids love the free chips and salsa.   It really doesn’t matter what they order, it will be a delicious combo of corn tortilla, beans, rice and cheese.  Great, cheap Mexican food here!

THE SUBMARINE HOUSE: Kids eat free everyday after 4pm at this East Coast style sub shop .  We don’t suggest they try the super duper cheesesteak challenge until they are 21.   Instead they will want to go with winners like the cheese pita pizza or the chicken tenders and fries.

FRICKER’S: Every frickin day, kids 10 and under eat free.  Wings, chicken chunks, boneless wings and burgers are the most popular.  Gourmet kids love the Frickin Chicken Pizza.

OINKADOODLEMOO: Tuesdays, kids eat free in the Oakwood restaurant.  That is a good deal, because good bbq isn’t cheap.

SKYLINE CHILI: Wednesday nights, kids eat free!  Unless you have been living under a rock, you know that this Cincinnati style chili place is an acquired taste.  Finicky kids will eat the plain hot dogs all day long !

DE’LISH CAFE: Kids eat free Thursdays until 8pm.   This is an upscale bistro, with some gourmet dishes.  Show your kids the great food photos on the website, before you go there.

FLYBOY’S DELI: Tuesdays and Thursdays 5-8pm, no cost for kiddos.   Like the marquee says, “Eat in New York City, without leaving historic Dayton.”  They offer 4 pizza choices and 4 panini choices.   From Buffalo chicken pizza to ham sandwiches, make sure you take them to the rooftop seating area for a fun Food Adventure.

Kids Eat Free every Frickin’ Day at Frickers

EARTH FARE: Thursdays 4-8pm, kids eat free.  The organic, gluten free and healthy food choices here are endless.

WG GRINDERS: Kids eat free everyday.  This Columbus based eatery has great sub sandwiches.  Some are colossal creations!

 

CHAIN FAVES:
QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL – Fun atmosphere at Qdoba where after 4pm on Sunday nights, you guessed it, kids eat free !!  Get the kids involved topping their own “lil burrito.”  Good, Mexican street food and it’s pretty healthy!
BEEF O’BRADY’S -Already a kid’s paradise, this place features a  ‘kids eat free’ night on Tuesdays from 4-8pm.   The chicken nuggets always score a touchdown with the little ones.

 

ALMOST FREE:
LAROSA’S – Kids get unlimited spaghetti dinners for 99cents on Mondays and Tuesdays !  Buddy LaRosa’s gang will make your kids smile with this deal.  We see sauce stained cheeks in your future.

Kids Eat Free at La Pinata on Sundays !

 

Nothing beats good free food.   It is a great money-saver for families on a budget.   So take advantage of these deals,  especially at the restaurants you may already frequent.    Maybe there is such a thing as a free lunch!

Want more food, fun and serious eats with couple of kids at heart?  Check out FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook, HERE !

Browse the photo gallery below from some food shots from our favorite KIDS EAT FREE places.  Did we miss one?  Which “kids eat free” spots are your favorites?  Comment below and let us know !

[flagallery gid=52]

A Simply De’Lish Experience

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 Some would consider honesty within a business’s practice an important component, and as a customer, you want what you were promised, right? So what if I told you that this downtown Dayton café and bar fulfills the promise it holds within its title? That this restaurant literally holds true to its name? Well, let me enlighten you. De’Lish is both the description of this venue, as well as the cuisine they serve as part of their entire dining experience. And “experience” may not even do justice to what really happens behind those lovely curtained front doors of De’Lish on the corner of Main and First. After having their doors open FOR A WHOLE YEAR, they are ready to throw a royal celebration! Details to come…

            On a recent chilly Friday, I had the opportunity of sitting down (in front of their gorgeous bar) with Jasmine Brown, one of the co-owners of De’Lish along with Tawana Knight. “My fiancé and I had always wanted a lounge and bar,” described Jasmine, and when they came across the space downtown, they fell in love with it immediately. Jasmine explained that running your own restaurant is like everyone warns: “it is a very demanding business, but it’s worth it for the look on people’s face when they taste the food. And then you see your first repeat customers and eventually, you see regulars, and you just know you’re doing something good.” They started business last December, and this Saturday, December 3, marks their one year anniversary! Congratulations are in order.

This venue is known for their dining experience, in every sense of the word. While enjoying their wide selection of cuisine, De’Lish also provides the entertainment. They host poetry readings twice a month, from local poets. Local comedians even had a chance at the stage just a few Sundays ago for their second comedic night. They have even hosted a night full of Reggae musicians, where groups from Columbus traveled over to Dayton to share an evening with the guests at De’Lish. When discussing this, I could really feel Jasmine’s emphasis on supporting local people. Even all the art within the room was unveiled specifically for De’Lish by a local artist named Amanda Sue Allen. As much as possible, the wonderful staff at De’Lish tries to incorporate people within the surrounding community into their events. They feature a variety of local talents, as well as serving up their own variety within an average week. Below is a map to the endless celebration taking place within this relaxed, yet elegant setting:

Monday: Monday Night FootballTuesday: A very laid back evening
Wednesday: “Wind down” with 50 cent wings and wine specials
Thursday: Another relaxed evening
Friday-Saturday: When the party is happening!! Live entertainment begins at 9 PM
Sunday: Delicious brunch, where the chefs feature different food than usually on the menu
Bonus: Complementary Valet ParkingWednesday-Sunday

De’Lish is known for its dining atmosphere. It is fine dining, but by no means has that stuffy feeling some restaurants carry. The setting is close enough that you can get to know your neighbor and interact with those around you if you so choose, but is also private enough that it’s the perfect date night. Jasmine commented about how she has had the privilege to observe complete strangers build relationships over dinner or coordinate business transactions from the table across the way. It truly is a community, where every member is welcome and invited in with welcoming smiles. Numerous customers have commented on De’Lish’s “ambiance” and the live entertainment allows the guests to see a show while they enjoy their meal. So it’s pretty obvious that these folks like to have a good time, right? And now you must be wondering what’s “under the table” for their anniversary this Saturday.

A celebration for their guests. That’s what Jasmine and her lovely crew at De’Lish have decided to cater to for this celebration of the anniversary of their opening, one year ago on December 3rd. The main purpose of this celebration is “to give back to the customers”. So what’s on tap? A radio station will be broadcasting at De’Lish from 5 PM to 7 PM. Hor’deurves will be passed throughout the celebration and a medley of local bands will also be performing, each having an hour set. “We have some really great bands coming in,” gleamed Jasmine, who should definitely be excited for the anniversary of a truly beautiful lounge and bar. Interviewing her, I could really see her passion for the success of this restaurant and for the relationships she holds with her customers. The guests represent all parts of Dayton—all ages, all demographics. “There is such a wide spectrum of guests from day to day, and I have been told by many of them, ‘I just feel so comfortable here.’” I definitely could feel that same level of comfort as I sat with Jasmine in the elegant lighting of De’Lish, conversation flowing as if we were old friends. I asked what knowledge this one year has bestowed upon her, and she responded, “I have learned to be patient, to wait for things. Also, I cannot please everyone.” These words of wisdom most definitely apply to our everyday lives, too.

 On to the eats? Now that we have been welcomed into such a dazzling venue, feel at home with the friendly faces around us, and a show is available for our entertainment, it’s time to discuss the real reason you came to De’Lish. It is a restaurant—so what about their menu? When I asked Jasmine her favorite item, she genuinely had a hard time picking just one, because she “absolutely love[s] so much on the menu.” She finally narrowed it down to three, still teetering among their delicious Lamb Chops, the best Turkey Burger, and the great seafood De’Lish offers (they have served Sea Bass three different ways, all of which have wowed taste buds of countless guests over this past year). And their roasted hummus, made in house and served with crispy pita bread is a must-try. Honestly, with De’Lish’s “pretty awesome team,” including celebrity Chef Mark Brown and “Chef of the Year” sous chef Anthony Head, it’s not surprising their wide selection is nothing but spectacular.

So why De’Lish? Think back to when TV dinners started taking the nation by storm. Dinner + a show = a pretty good time. The major negative thing about these TV dinners were that they took away important bonding time for American families during dinner. De’Lish offers even better entertainment than any television show would be able to cook up and thrives on the bonding and interaction between its guests over a most delicious meal. A sense of belonging ensues from such a dining experience, and the fact that there’s great cuisine is the kicker. Such a variety is embodied within the menu; no one will be disappointed. All in all—it’s great food, a chance to get involved in the Dayton community, and entertainment all comfortably placed within this bar and lounge on First and Main. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience waiting for you, especially ushering in De’Lish’s new year this Saturday, starting at 5 PM.

All that’s left to do is get your party hat on!

 

Address: 139 N. Main Street Downtown Dayton, Dayton, OH 45402

Hours: Tues: 11AM – 7PM

Wed-Thu: 11AM – 10PM

Fri: 11AM – 2AM

Sat: 5PM – 2 AM

Sun: 11AM – 4PM

Reservations and Catering: (937) 461- CAFE (2233)

Jane’s Best Bets (2/9 – 2/13)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Some of you may be suffering from cabin fever, as the weather last week wasn’t conducive to enjoying all the wonderful activities in Dayton.  Although it’s supposed to be cold this week according to our local meteorologists, hopefully you will have the opportunity to get out and experience some of the wonderful things going on in our city!

On Wednesday, in the afternoon, take a trip to the Dayton Metro Library’s main branch for Special Events: Putting the FUN in Fundraising, in order to learn how to plan and execute a successful fundraising event.  Over at the Schuster Center, check out Visual Voices Art Exhibit:  Dayton Skyscrapers 2011.  If you missed the Trolley Stop’s Monthly Beer Tasting last week because of the ice/snow, no worries, as it has been rescheduled for Wednesday.  Afterwards, be sure to stay for the Old Time Acoustic Jam!

On Thursday, join Generation Dayton as they partner up with jumpstART for their Thirsty Thursday at De’Lish.  Afterwards, Jump into Theatre with these two great organizations by checking out the Human Race Theatre Company’s production of Twelfth Night.  Make sure you ask for the “jumpstart” deal in order to get half-off tickets!  Plus, the Human Race will offer a private tour after the production!  For those of you who love the sport of skiing, head to The Neon for their screening of ‘The Story’, which is a documentary on the topic.  At the Schuster Center, listen to the sounds of the Dayton Philharmonic for Heroes & Journeys: Strauss & Mozart.  In addition, A Streetcar Named Desirewill be playing at Victoria Theatre and True West will be playing at the University of Dayton.

On Friday, for those of you who like the color green, you’ll want to attend the ‘Ohio Leads the Way: Green Markets and Green Jobs’ Expo at the Dayton Convention Center.  If you’re feeling a little anti-social and would prefer to just watch a movie, head to UD for ArtStreet Friday Film Series Presents: The Social Network.  I still haven’t seen this movie, but have definitely heard good things about it!  Over at the Nutter Center, meet Achmed the Terrorist, Bubba J, and Jose Jalapeno on a Stick, as they take the stage alongside the hilarious Comedian Ventriloquist Jeff Dunham!  All you beer lovers may want to take a trip to Cincinnati for the Cincy Winter Beerfest – just bring a DD, or rather have the DD bring you!  For a fun way to start off Valentine’s Weekend, attend the Valentine’s Masquerade Ball Fundraiser at the Cannery Art and Design Center to benefit the YMCA Youth and Teen Programs.  If you’re looking for some theatre/music options, there are plenty!  Get your tickets to The Berenstain Bears Onstage: A Bear Country Musical (Town Hall Theatre), A Streetcar Named Desire (Victoria Theatre), Fat Pig (Dayton Theatre Guild), Stauss: A Hero’s Life(Dayton Philharmonic at the Schuster Center), The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee (Dayton Playhouse), Twelfth Night (The Loft Theatre), or True West at the University of Dayton.  At Alex’s, you can see The Fries, one of my favorite local bands (and foods) perform as part of their 2011 Debut!  Speaking of fries, be sure to check out the St. Henry/Bishop Leibold Fish Fry!  After all, what Friday would be complete without one?!?!

On Saturday, head out to the PNC 2nd Street Market for their Valentine’s Celebration, featuring perfect gifts for your sweetheart.  All teens are welcome to attend the Game Day @ Your Library, which will take place at the East Branch of the Dayton Metro Library.  Be sure to reserve your spot for the Do-It-Yourself Valentine Cookie Cakeat the delicious Ele Cake Company…I just can’t get enough of their butter cream icing!  If you have any leftovers, feel free to send them my way!  Over at the UD Arena, watch the UD Flyers as they play Temple.  The ‘Ohio Leads the Way: Green Markets and Green Jobs’ Expo will still be going on at the Dayton Convention Center.  If you so desire, you can see A Streetcar Named Desire at Victoria Theatre.  All you Sex and The City lovers will want to see the new show, Hot Mess in Manhattan.  There are also several other theater options listed on the DMM calendar.  At the University of Dayton, you will be able to check out the Libby Larsen Residency: Grand Finale Concert.  If fish fryin’ is your thing, head to St. Peter’s for their Fish Fry and Monte Carlo.  Several restaurants are also having Valentine’s specials or “couples specials,” such as the Sweetheart Package at The Melting Pot.  Over at the Nutter Center, attend the WYSO’s Silent Auction and Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting, featuring one of my favorite types of chocolates – Winans!  At Hara Arena, catch the Dayton Gems as they play the Fort Wayne Komets…kind of reminds me of that song I used to sing when I was little about comet making your mouth turn green and tasting like Listerine.  Darn, now I’m going to have that song in my head all day!  And finally, you will not want to miss the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s (DCDC’s) Black History Month Performance entitled In the Spirit of…The Spirit Within.  They are an amazing group of performers!

On Valentine’s Day Eve, be sure to Savor Your Sunday & Support Stivers.  At the Dayton Art Institute, check out the Shakespeare's TWELFTH NIGHT - presented by The Human Race Theatre Co. - January 28 - February 13Afternoon Musicales.  If you’re looking for something to do with your sweetheart (or your mom or grandma), you can check out Spinoza’s Dinner and a Movie Package, the Valentine Sharing Menu at Fleming’s, 3 course dinner for 2 for $25.99 at Mimi’s, or the Sweetheart Package at The Melting Pot.  If your mom, grandma, or sweetheart enjoys theatre, take her to one of the many shows going on, including The Berenstain Bears Onstage at Town Hall Theatre, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee at the Dayton Playhouse, Twelfth Night at The Loft Theatre, A Streetcar Named Desire -Passport Performance at Victoria Theatre, or Fat Pig at the Dayton Theatre Guild.  If the lady in your life likes music, take her to listen to the sounds of the Dayton Philharmonic for The Magic Orchestra with Dan Kaminat the Schuster Center.  And finally, another wonderful Sunday option is DCDC’s Black History Month Performance In the Spirit of…The Spirit Within.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week…well actually, a couple cheesy pickup lines in honor of Valentine’s Day. Drum roll please…

  • Let’s make like a fabric softener and snuggle.
  • Are your legs tired, because you’ve been running through my mind all day long.
  • Do you believe in love at first sight or should I walk by again?

Disclaimer:  The success of these pick-up lines is not guaranteed.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a LOVEly week Dayton!