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Foremost Seafood: Get the Most Out of Lent

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Talk about Fresh …

For many of you this is Lenten season. For many of you it is not.  But there is one thing both groups should know.  A sort of secret place called Foremost Seafood in Kettering sells the freshest fish in town.  With grilling season starting in a couple of months, the timing is perfect for us to share our little know gem once again.

The Food Adventures Crew has been enjoying the benefits of Foremost Seafood for about 12 years now.

We have enjoyed seafood from all parts of the world and the freshest fish you can get your hands on in Dayton.

What’s this place and why is everyone crazy about place?  Let us explain….

HERE’S THE SKINNY on FOREMOST SEAFOOD:

Foremost sometimes gets crowded, so call in your order !

— This little known gem is located at 1904 Woodman Center Dr in Kettering, Ohio.

— Opened in 1983 it is a true mom and pop establishment with two friendly Daytonians at the helm, Tom and Pam Patterson.

— The staff is very knowledgeable and some are trained chefs.  They trim the fish with excellent precision, allowing for great eating and grilling enjoyment.

— Foremost Seafood is the seafood supplier for many local restaurants and grocers.

Fresh Fish trucked in almost every day

Hours: Tues – Friday 9am – 6pm 
                    Saturday 9am- noon
                    Sunday – CLOSED
                    Monday – CLOSED

— Foremost also carries olive oils, seafood spices, seafood  and special local sauces

— Seafood ranges from frozen crablegs and frozen shrimp to live mussels, live clams, live oysters, fresh scallops and more.

Mussels Steamed in white wine

— Fresh fish is brought in daily.  It is bought from 2 day boats which means the boats are only out fishing for 2 days.  After shipping to Dayton, these fish are just out of ocean or freshwater source for typically 3-4 days.  The fish are kept whole and not cut until you order it.  This is done on purpose to stay true to the fish.  They go through the trouble to get 2 day boats, so they keep that freshness by not cutting it up and displaying it until it is ordered.  Thereby minimizing the deterioration of the fresh fish.  The result is the best tasting fish around.

Steamed Clams

— Our favorite specials from time to time include fresh Carolina Shrimp, and live Softshell Crabs… both a couple of days out of the water.  They are definitely “must eats.” 

What other suggestions do we have ?  …… Here is our MUST EATS !

 

MUST EATS:

Fresh Salmon on the Grill and one Tilapia filet

—THE LIVE SHELLFISH:
Foremost has an amazing collection of live clams.  they have different sizes of clams and all are sweet and delicious , and easily steamed at home.  Serve them with butter for a heavenly bite.  The Cherrystones are the big clams we love best.  Also the live mussels are incredible.  Cook them in some wine and garlic and you have a gourmet feast for cheap.  Like Oysters?  Get to shuckin, they have live ones here you can enjoy raw or cook them at home!  Get your own order, we won’t share, we are too shellfish for that.

 

— FRESH ATLANTIC SALMON:
There are numerous types of salmon offered at Foremost Seafood.  From Scottish to Atlantic, we tend to buy the Atlantic Salmon. Quick recipe, get a filet, top it with olive oil, oregano, basil and garlic powder.  Bake it on 350 degrees for 20 minutes and you should have a meal to talk about for weeks,  This fish is the best for grilling in our humble opinion, get it with skin on when grilling and grill skin side down, until the final grill mark flip.

Red Snapper oiled up and ready for the oven

— FRESH RED SNAPPER:
“How’s your snapper maam?”  Fresh here at Foremost Seafood!  An incredible tasting fish, great for baking, needs little more than olive oil to bake it .  The unmistakable scales can be seen if you order the fish with the skin on, which we do.  The skin can be eaten or discarded, and acts as a buffer, to prevent overcooking of the fish.  Wana live on the edge?  Shake some cajun seasoning on that filet and have our own little “hot” party.

 

— THE BIG BAG OF FROZEN SNOW CRAB LEGS:

Look at this bag of snow crab clusters !

It is a party in a plastic bag !  This big bag of crab usaally has 3 or 4 big clusters.  Price is based on weight.  Two ways to cook these legs 1) steam them in 2 inches of water or 2) bake them at 300 degrees  for 15 minutes on a cookie sheet.  Melt some butter and get to crackin’.  The sweet taste of snow crab can really make any day special.

 

— FRESH SCALLOPS:
Always ask for the largest ones they have.  The price is more, but worth it.  The large scallops are succulent and easier to cook. You can grill them or bake them or pan sear them.  All three methods are terrific using olive oil, and promise to bring out the sweet juiciness of the scallops.  Serve with some garlic butter sauce, and you and your guests will be doing the happy dance.

 

Pan Seared Scallops

— FRESH SWORDFISH STEAKS:
 This is a nice presentation fish you can impress your friends with.  The fish is hearty, so it turns out well on the grill, baked or pan seared.  Lemon or fruit flavors pair well when cooking this fish.  People who like steak seem to like this fish.  The freshness of this fish can be seen in the color of the fish.

 

— FRESH LAKE ERIE PERCH AND WALLEYE:

We Baked this Swordfish with a Raspberry sauce


In the mood for some Ohio fish ?  Foremost is your hook up for Lake Erie Perch and Walleye.  These fish are great for fish frys and sandwiches.  Pan Sear the Lake Erie Perch and serve like sliders on dinner rolls with tartar sauce.   Or deep fry the walleye after dredging it using 2 packages Goldent Dipt all purpose breading and 1 Package Drake’s Crispy Fry Mix.

 

Pan Fried, Lake Erie Perch – we served it with seaweed

*****Here are a couple rules of thumb when buying fresh seafood.*****

First off, smell the raw fish you are about to buy.  If it is strong smelling it, means the fish is not fresh, dont buy it.  You want your fish to have that faint ocean smell, definitely not strong or sour.

Sometimes they have the whole fish on site for purchase.  If you are thinking of getting it, note that the clearness of the eyes is a sign of freshness, and the cloudy-eyed fish means it is not so fresh.

Fresh Shrimp

Don’t forget Foremost Seafood this Lenten and upcoming Summer. We have two tips when ordering
1) Get there early when you can , like when they open.
2) Call your order into 937-298-1986 in advance to avoid a line.

This Food Adventure feature as all about where to get fresh fish.  Take advantage of this special business.WE are lucky to have it in our community.

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Join the 8,000 Dayton Foodies following Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here to like our page.  Each week we present an exclusive feature article right here and only here on DaytonMostMetro .com.  Stay tuned for more articles !

Please feel free to browse our original photos below.

Outside Foremost Seafood

Frozen Lobster Tails

Dayton Original Sauce for Sale !

Clams and Crab anyone ?

They even have frozen oysters on the half shell !

Live Clams and Frozen Crab ready for the kettle

Glazed baked Salmon

Inside Foremost Seafood

Grilling time soon ….

Live Mussels

Seared Ahi Tuna

Shrimp and Salmon

Live Oysters

Scallops ready to be cooked

Fish fish fish Fish

Big Ragu’s Deep Fried Walleye

Blue Crabs – alive !!

How bout some crab legs ?

Steamed Clams

Baked Crab Legs

swordfish

Baked Red Snapper

Shrimp boiled in beer

 

 

 

Chicken Louies Making a Comeback

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That famous taste you know is coming baaaccck !

Food Adventures has some secret scoop.  It is so secret in fact that we can’t release all the details of the deal, but we can tell you . absolutely that an iconic chicken stop is about to be reborn in Dayton.

Chicken Louie’s, a favorite for decades in the Dayton area, had a shop on N. Main St. and a store on the west side called “Lou’s Broaster Hut.”  Known for their broasted whole wings served plain or spun in one of 3 sauces, this “carryout only” spot became legendary in status.  Known for soulful sides, and late hours, people would travel miles or just walk up to the window to get a taste of Lou’s famous chicken.

Lou’s Broaster Hut was on 3rd Street

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE DEAL:

— In 1958, Chicken Louie’s began slinging wings in Dayton, and locals went berserk over the broasted style of cooked wings.  Marinated overnight, then deep-fried in a pressure cooker, the chicken had a distinct taste and the sauces complimented the chicken perfectly.  The menu featured wings, legs, thighs and breasts, and literally showed the price of each from 1 to 100 pieces.

Broasted Chicken and more

— Chicken Louie’s hit hard times in the turn of the century, as Lou had to take care of his ill mother.  He ended up closing for a while and selling to  his managing partner who ran the restaurant a little past Lou’s death in 2012.

— Chicken Louie’s was resurrected in 2014 in an unlikely place.  The same managing partner opened a side shop in the Super Subby’s restaurant in Miamisburg on Main St.  The shop served a limited Chicken Louie’s menu of wings, pies and broasted potatoes.  The location had spurts of greatness but never took hold in the Miamisburg community as expected.  As business dwindled, the Subby’s closed in December, 2018.

Coming in 2019

— Two private investors have stepped forward and bought all of the original equipment and recipes from the Chicken Louie’s establishment.  They will not only offer the famous broasted chicken wings, but they plan to offer the full original menu.  This means legs, thighs, broasted potatoes in butter, peanut butter pies, sweet potato pie, fish dinners, shrimp dinner, dinner rolls, cornbread and all the sides you remember.  Also available will be the 4 famous sauces: BBQ, mild, medium and hot.

— The plan is to open the first Chicken Louie’s in the city of Dayton proper, sometime before fall.  A site has been bought, signed and sealed, but we are not at liberty to disclose the exact location.  We can tell you that remodeling is about to begin.  The site layout will be similar to the popular carryout location on N. Main Street, that served up good food for decades.

Sweet Potato Pie

— The strategy is also to open a 2nd store eventually in the north or west Dayton area.  Again, we are not at liberty to disclose exact location plans, which would be premature of the 2nd location at this point.

Rarely is a Dayton iconic restaurant reborn from the ashes.  But, this will happen, and Miami Valley foodies will once again be able to enjoy Lou’s chicken.  Until the site opens, we will be licking our lips and deciding how many wings, pieces of shrimp and fish we are gonna order with our broasted potatoes.

See you at the window of Chicken Louie’s… real soon !

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then follow our weekly articles exclusively here on DaytonMostMetro .com.  We also have a Facebook page with nearly 8,000 followers.  Click here to like our page.

Feel free to browse our gallery below of Chicken Louie favorites.

Sauces

Famous dinner rolls

Hot Wing

Medium Wing

A mild whole wing

Broasted Potatoes

Peanut Butter Pie

BBQ Wings

Chicken Louie’s was on N Main for decades

 

 

Dayton’s 2019 Fish Frys by Date!

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Holy Angels Fish Fry

BOOKMARK THIS PAGE to make finding fish frys easy this year.  This year we list the 2019 fish frys in order by date.  We even separate them out by month!  The Food Adventure Crew has been to more fish frys than any other Dayton food blog.  Each year we hit a couple dozen and each year we seem to add a new site.  Whether just eating or also volunteering dealing blackjack, we enjoy every  Lenten season.  So this year, join us at as many events that you can – we will save some tartar sauce for ya !  Must be 21 to attend, except for the fish frys that are family events.

Without baiting you further, here are the 2019 FISH FRY’s BY DATE… Let this be your “go to” guide!  At the end we put our favorite restaurant fish frys.

We even have scoop on a “Do it yourself Fish Fry”at home !  Read this article and be the smartest fish in your school.

 

 

******JANUARY 2019******

 

FRIDAY JAN 11th – 5:30pm – 10:30pm

Our Lady of the Rosary will have Sausages Pre-Lent

—OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY FISH FRY: 
22 Notre Dame Ave.  Dayton
Arguably the best fish fry in Dayton history.  $17 gets you endless food and beer, they don’t nickel and dime you here.  This is a fun, laid back party. All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot and regular), French fries, salad, cole slaw, cabbage and noodles, chocolate cake, apple crisp, popcorn, beer and soft drinks, and Chef Joseph, you get us with that peanut butter sheet cake every year.  Talk about religious experience… but the secret is out – get there early or the line will be around the cafeteria.  The fish here is different than other fish fry, they are big fish stick cubes.

 

SATURDAY JAN 12th – 6pm-11pm
—HOLY ANGELS FISH FRY:
1322 Brown Street, Dayton
Near the campus of U.D., the workers here are welcoming.  A nice hot batch of fish hits the pan every few minutes.  The line is not bad, if you get there EARLY and the cafeteria area is where you dine and look at raffle prizes.  Check out the goods and the beer is CHEAP. Around the corner are come casino table games.If prices stay the same, $15 bucks for a delicious fish fry cooked by the “Corpus Christi Fryers” will be had by all.

 

St Albert the Great Volunteers

SATURDAY JAN 12th – 6pm-9pm
AMERICAN LEGION POST 675
31 Chambers St, Dayton
$12 for Endless Fish and  Sausage.  The beer runs endless too! Whats this? They have door prizes and games like their famous “Whiskey Wheel !  We have ye to try this one, but our friends love it.  See you there this weekend !  You’ve got some Tartar Sauce on your face …

 

FRIDAY JAN 18th – 7pm – midnight
—ST ALBERT THE GREAT FISH FRY: 
3033 Far Hills Ave, Dayton
$20 at the door gets you a full, endless fish dinner.  In the past the Hecht family has run this fish fry.  Nice, big pieces of fish, breaded and cooked perfectly.  You should get a couple of beer tickets with admission as well.  Extra beers you must purchase on your own.

 

FRIDAY JAN 18th – 6pm -9pm all ages

Hushpuppy action at Knights of Columbus

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY: 
4293 Powell Road, Huber Heights
The menu includes beverages, both fried and baked fish, sausage, chicken nuggets, beans, corn, macaroni and cheese, and all the fixings. The price is $14 for adults.  Kids price is much cheaper.  Families are welcome.  There is no alcohol at this event.

 

SATURDAY JAN 19th – Noon- 4pm (ALL AGES)
—THE MENS MINISTRY OF BELIEVERS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP CHURCH:
3010 McCall Street, Dayton
The family friendly event features $10 per dinner. You get endless fish and 2 sides. Beverages and dessert will be available for purchase.

 

FRIDAY JAN 25th  – 6pm – 10pm
—EMMANUEL ST VINCENT DEPAUL CONFERENCE FISH DINNER / MONTE CARLO
Bainbridge Hall – 267 Bainbridge St, Dayton
$15 per person for this event. Features are Silent Auction-50/50 – Horse Race – $1000 Raffle – Showdown – Poker – Bingo.  Proceeds Benefit the Saint Vincent DePaul Food Pantry. Please bring a food item for the pantry. Price includes fish dinner, adult beverages and pastries.

 

Beer at St Christophers flowing

SATURDAY JAN 26TH – 6-11pm
—ST CHRISTOPHERS FISH FRY:
435 East National Road, Vandalia
$15 cost to enter and it is being run by the Corpus Christi Fryers, so you know it is gonna be great. Free refills on everything including beer, short lines and great food make this one of our favorite fish frys. It is in the top 3 easily.

 

SATURDAY JANUARY 26th – 6pm – 11pm
—ST HELENS FISH FRY:
605 Granville Pl, Dayton
Riverside’s best fish fry.   $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner.  Menu will include: fish, french fries, slaw, and homemade hush puppies, snacks and beverages. Since it is on a Saturday, they are also having sausages and chicken !  This is a comfortable crowd, not too busy, and not too empty.  It is just right.  Lots of chances for casino games as well.   Try your luck at Blackjack, Texas Hold’em, or 7 Card Stud, Beat the Dealer, Showdown, Instants, 50/50, LRC or Raffles. Door prizes too!

 

 

******FEB 2019******

 

Cutting up fish in the St Marys kitchen

FRIDAY FEB 1st – 6PM
—ST MARY’S FISH FRY: 
310 Allen St, Dayton
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church.  Historically it is always the first Fri in Feb and the first Friday in November.   There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games.  This is one of the best bangs for your buck.  The cost is $15 and you get fish dinner with all the trimmings.  You can buy beers on draft for about 50 cents.  And a dessert table for extra $1 per item will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.  Get there early, it has gotten more popular and sold out last year.  Nice volunteers and a comfortable atmosphere.  

 

FRIDAY FEB 8th  6pm-11pm
—ST. HENRY’S FISH FRY:
6696 Springboro Pike, Dayton
They have a live auction and Texas hold em too !  Price is about 16 bucks for the all you can eat typical fish dinner with fries and slaw.  Have fun and gamble.  The atmosphere is very relaxed and jovial at this fun fish fry.  They are the only fish fry in town that has a fish eating contest during the event.  Stuffing your face has never been so much fun.

Our plate at St Henrys

 

FRIDAY FEB 8th – 5:30pm – 10:30pm
—OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY FISH FRY: 
22 Notre Dame Ave.  Dayton
The second fish fry of the season for this church. And one of the best … $17 gets you endless food and beer – Don’t miss this one .  Best bang for your buck, but word is out -now there is a long line.

 

SATURDAY FEB 9th
—HUBER HEIGHTS ROTARY FISH FRY: 
5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
$15 tickets include food and drink. There will be raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and Monte Carlo games. All funds raised benefit “Needy Family Christmas Program.”

 

Brick City Tickets to the Fish Fry !

SATURDAY FEB 16th – 6pm-11pm
—9th ANNUAL —BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL  FISH FRY
5367 Fishburg Rd, Dayton
Held at the Huber Heights Activities Center, presale is $12 with $15 tickets at the door. Price includes beer/pop and all you can eat Fish, Chicken, Polish Sausage, French Fries, Baked Beans and Coleslaw.  Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!  Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.

 

SUNDAY FEB 17th – 8am -5pm
—9th ANNUAL BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL  FISH FRY
5367 Fishburg Rd, Dayton
Held at the Huber Heights Activities Center, presale is $12 with $15 tickets at the door. Price includes beer/pop and all you can eat Fish, Chicken, Polish Sausage, French Fries, Baked Beans and Coleslaw.  Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!  Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.

.

 

FRIDAY FEB 22nd 6pm – 11pm
—ST PAULS CATHOLIC CHURCH FISH FRY: 
 1000 Wenger Rd, Englewood
A delicious fish fry that’s not too crowded. So many of these events are spent standing in line, this one is an exception. You have a nice choice of fish, sides and desserts.. Of course you get beer and pop included as well.  The crowd is older and the laid back atmosphere is a nice change from the hustle and bustle at some of the busier fish frys.  Cost is around $15 for fish dinner and a couple of drink tickets.  If you want a relaxing fish fry, this one will leave you full, happy and you wont feel corralled into a long line.

 

St Pauls is serving up sausages

FRIDAY FEB 22nd  5:45pm-10pm
DAYTON COUNCIL 500-KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FRY
Bainbridge Hall -267 Bainbridge St, Dayton
Dinner will include fried cod, french fries, cole slaw, baked beans, rolls and butter. Cost is $15 and includes the meal, adult beverages and pastries. Food serving will commence at 6PM and conclude at 8PM. Doors open at 545PM.  They ask as part of the admission to bring a can/box of food for the food pantry. Guest  wishing to make an additional donation of a pastry is a welcome gesture. Games of chance will commence at approximately 6PM with showdown, a horse race game and 50/50. Raffles will be also be  available thru the event.  Contact Dayton Council 500 Grand Knight at 937-558-9311, leave a message,  for tickets or email [email protected] requesting a rsvp and purchase of tickets. All are welcome

 

FRIDAY FEB 22nd 6pm – 11pm

Alter HS Fish Fry Prep

—ALTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FISH FRY: 
940 E David Rd, Kettering
The Dayton area’s largest fish fry, it is a sight to behold.  Located at Alter High School gym and cafeteria, it is a huge display of casino games and a gigantic amount of silent auction prizes.  $15 gets you all you want fish, sides and pop.  Beer and wine, is extra.  This event always promises to draw a big crowd. If you want the big, Grandaddy of them all fish fry .. this is it … Say hi to the Big Ragu who will be dealing blackjack.

 

FRIDAY FEB 22nd 6pm -11pm
—ST ANTHONY’s FISH FRY: 
830 Bowen St., Dayton
Great atmosphere, great fish.  Plenty of blackjack tables for afterwards fun.  Cost is $15 and includes fish dinner, sides and a couple of beer tickets. The lines can get long, so get there early for this one.  Good Food, fun crowd, and nice big pieces of Alaskan pollack.  We love to see this classic church get some love, so please consider supporting this event.  It means a lot to the school and church.

 

Friendly volunteers at St Anthony

SATURDAY FEB 23rd  6pm-11pm
WARRIOR FISH FRY and MONTE CARLO
5367 Fishburg Rd, Dayton, OH
The Food Adventure Crew have not tried this fish fry yet, but it looks promising and is on our hit list for 2019.  $20 at the door gets Sausages, Fish and Chicken Nuggets. This Fish Fry & Monte Carlo Fundraiser benefits Roadwarriors Fastpitch Softball Club.  Games will be 7 card stud, Showdown, pull tabs, Chuck O Luck, door prizes, great food and more!!  Food will be from 6-9PM  Being held on a Saturday, they are able to feature chicken during Lent.  Venue is the Huber Heights Athletic Center, with plenty of room for good seating and gambling..

 

 

******MARCH 2019******

 

FRIDAY MAR 1st  6pm – 11pm

Dayton Rugby Fish Fry features the only Panko Bread Crumbs

—DAYTON RUGBY CLUB FISH FRY: 
 IUE @ 1675 Woodman Dr, Dayton, OH 45432
This ranking is because the fish is so good.  Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.  Big lines, but the fish is worth it.  It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish crumbs for breading.  Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do.  A fun boisterous crowd.  Lots of food, laughs and fun. They  will be serving Warped Wing beer exclusively on tap.

 

SATURDAY MAR 2nd  6pm -11pm
JIMMY STRONG FISH FRY  
1675 Woodman Dr, Dayton
$20 at the door. There are Food-Beer-Raffles-Games-Pull Tabs-Jello Shots -Music and MUCH MORE!
100% of all proceeds to go to Jimmy Miller and his family to help during his battle with Leukemia.   This fish fry is different from the others because it is helping one family in crisis.  Please consider supporting this cause at the ABS enter on Woodman Drive, formerly the IUE CWA hall.

 

Incarnation in the Casino area

SATURDAY MAR 2nd  (TENTATIVE) 6pm
—OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY: 
249 Squirrel Rd, Dayton
Just $15 gets you into this fantastic party and fish fry.  The lines are not long and the food is good.  Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included! The Corpus Christi Fryers will be serving up some lovin’ spoonfuls.   This is one of the best deals of the season.

 

 

SATURDAY MAR 2nd  6pm -11pm
HUBER HEIGHTS YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB FISH FRY
5367 Fishburg Rd, Dayton
Obviously supporting local youth athletics is important.  This will be another fry held in the Huber Heights Athletics Center.  We will try and attend this one to get more information for next years preview.

 

FRIDAY MAR 8th 6pm – 11pm
—INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY:
55 Williamsburg Ln, Centerville
Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish frys.  Also a BIG casino after party, with lots of folks. Big Ragu deals blackjack here from time to time, so please come, eat, drink and be merry.  This event gets extra points for decor and silent auction.  Typically the cost is about $18 and includes all you can eat fish, sides and soda pop.  Craft beer for sale too, the biggest selection of the fish frys.

 

 

FRIDAY MAR 8th  6pm – 11pm

Carroll HS typically has baked options

—CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL’S ST PAT’S FEST FISH FRY: 
4524 Linden Ave.  Dayton
Everyone is Irish for this fish fry celebration.  $18 is admission gets you fish, sides and some draft beers. Held in the cafeteria and gymnasium, they have a baked fish option and lots of desserts.  A friendly staff, with tons of silent auction items, raffle prizes and of course some games of chance.  Will you hit the luck of the Irish at this party?(March 11th is a free family event).

 

SATURDAY MAR 9th  6pm -11pm
—HOLY TRINITY FISH FRY: 
272 Bainbridge St, Dayton
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners.  They treat you like family.  At a cost of about $15 you get 3 beer tickets and food.  The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.  This is a real fun event that captures the essence of a fish fry.

 

Monte Carlo Games at Holy Trinity

SATURDAY MAR 9th – 6pm – 11pm
—ST PETER’S FISH FRY: 
6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
Since it is on a Saturday, they offer fish, sausages, wings and much more.  There is enough food to line the length of a basketball court.  The entire gym is decked out from horse races to blackjack.  The price is about $15 and includes a couple of drink tickets.  The line is a big one so get there EARLY.  They usually surprise with one craft beer at the coolers.  Big crowd, good times.

 

FRIDAY MAR 15th  430pm -11pm
—ST CHARLES FISH FRY:
4500 Ackerman Blvd. Kettering 
Kid friendly until 6pm.  This fish fry gives you a chance to bring the whole family from 4:30pm -6pm.  After that it goes to over 21.  Great fish, short lines and a lot of fun.  We suggest getting there about 5-530pm to get a good seat. Tickets are about $16 and include a couple of beer tickets, as well as fish, slaw and fries.

The Crowd at St Peters

 

 

FRIDAY MAR 22nd  6pm
—.ST. BRIDGID FISH FRY: 
312 Fairground Road, Xenia
Sounds like besides a great fish fry, they will have lots of casino games like Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo.  Tickets are $15 for this one.

 

 

SATURDAY MAR 23rd  6pm
CHAMINADE JULIENNE’S FISH FRY: 
505 South Ludlow Street, Dayton 
Cost is $20 at the door includes all the beer and food you want.  We love this all-inclusive approach and the fish is good so this one is the best up and coming fish fry.  Held in the school they get a great crowd, get there early as lines are a tradition! We can’t think of a better way to help this Dayton iconic school than a fun fish fry on the school grounds.  They have amazing desserts on display here.  Some of the best desserts in all the fish frys.

 

 

 

Fresh Fries at St Charles !

FRIDAY MAR 29th  6pm
—ST. FRANCIS of ASSISI‘s FISH FRY: 
6245 Wilmington Pike, Bellbrook
If you get there early, you will be having round 2 of food before most people have even gotten into line.  This is a big fish fry held in the cafeteria and the seating gets full.  The fish is filling and they offer some other sides besides just slaw and fries.

 

 

******APRIL 2019******

FRIDAY APR 5th
—PARTNERS FOR COMMUNITY LIVING FISH and CHIP FRY: 
5367 Fishburg Rd, Huber Heights
Highly acclaimed fish fry.  Tickets are $20 at the door, and the buzz is nothing but good about this event.  We can’t wait to sink our teeth into their fish!

FRIDAY April  5th  5pm – 11pm

Dayton Rugby Fish Fry features the only Panko Bread Crumbs

—DAYTON RUGBY CLUB FISH FRY: 
 Advanced Business Properties Hall @ 1675 Woodman Dr, Dayton, OH 45432
This ranking is because the fish is so good.  Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.  Big lines, but the fish is worth it.  It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish crumbs for breading.  Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do.  A fun boisterous crowd.  Lots of food, laughs and fun. They  will be serving Warped Wing beer exclusively on tap.

 

Oh those desserts at Chaminade Juliennes fish fry!

 

 

DATE TO BE DETERMINED
—ST LUKES FISH FRY: 
1440 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
This one is run by the school and is a delicious dinner, not all you can eat.  You are offered baked and fried fish, slaw and fries.  They have one of the biggest dessert selections we had run into.  Plenty of soda available.  This is a FAMILY fish fry, so no beer or alcohol is served.  Cost is about $10 for adults, $5 children 4-12, 3 and under free.  

 

What about …

 *** RESTAURANT FISH FRYS ***

 

HERE ARE THE BEST 8 FISH FRYS at DAYTON AREA RESTAURANTS EVERY FRIDAY – some Lent only

Georges Pollack all you can eat $9.99

1) GEORGE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT:
5216 N Dixie Dr, Dayton
$9.00 gets you Endless Pollack fish, fries and cole slaw offered year round on Fridays all day. A great deal!  The fish is amazing and the servers are very attentive on refills.  Diner atmosphere with oldies music.

 

2) HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:
3509 Linden Ave, Dayton
$9.00 – endless fish fries and cole slaw offered 52 weeks a year on Fridays. What a deal!  The fish is delicious, light, huge pieces cooked with a perfect crunch.  Excellent food, old school atmosphere, nuff said.

 

3) YANKEE TRACE GOLF CLUB:

Hsty Tasy’s Fish is 9 bucks all you can eat on Fridays year round

10000 Yankee St, Centerville
Endless fish, cole slaw and fries for $15 per person.  This goes every Friday through April 14th.  Delicious, filling, and ooohh is that fish good and crunchy!

 

 

4) K.J.’S RESTAURANT:
35 W Center St, Germantown
This Germantown restaurant features all you can eat farm raised ocean catfish,  swai, 2 sides, for $9.99.  What a price!  The catfish is rumored to be nice and flaky and not “fishy.”  We can’t wait to check this one out !

 

5) GAMEDAY GRILL and PATIO:
7576 OH-48, Waynesville, OH
Popular spot at the edge of Waynesville/Centerville.  Their fish fry runs every Friday during lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter).  It is not all you can eat.  The price is $12.95 for Alaskan Pollock includes 2 big pieces, fries and slaw and extra filets are +$3 each. These guys know how to cook good food.  Try it for some of the best around.

 

 

Yankee Trace Fish Fry $15 all you can eat

6) SLYDER’S FISH FRY: 
836 Watervliet Ave., Dayton
Every Friday, is the deal. Three pieces of walleye (not all you can eat) for $7.75. Served with fries and slaw.  This is the only time you will not get a burger here.

 

7) CRACKER BARREL FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville,  and 7171 Miller Ln, Dayton
Fried Cod on Friday for $9.99.  Add the best sides in show business like the dumplings or okra and you’ve got a cure hitting your hunger.  They start serving at 11am and you can choose from Cod or Catfish.  We’re HOOKED ~

 

8) WHOLE FOODS FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
1050 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Centerville 
Fish dinner by the pound.Beer Battered Cod, every Friday in the hot plate area sold with french fries at $8.99 a pound.

Freshest fish in town- Foremost Seafoods outlet store

 

**** DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY AT HOME ****

One last thing to consider….an option of having your very own fish fry….


— FOREMOST SEAFOOD‘S “DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY AT HOME”:  Here is an option you wont see anywhere else.  How about hosting your own fish fry party?  Foremost Seafood, off of Woodman Drive, sells everything you need to make sure you have the perfect party.  And you can pick which type of fish you want.  From Catfish, Walleye, Haddock, Perch, Pollack, to Tilapia and much more.  Call (937) 298-1986, ask for Tom to talk about your fish fry.  It will be the freshest fish fry you will ever taste, with the fish usually being about 3 days out of the water !

WHEWWWWWW !  That’s it !  Hook, line and sinker….

Find Food Adventures weekly articles right here EXCLUSIVELY at DaytonMostMetro.

Always the most thorough scoop on Dayton eats, Food Adventures can be found on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Please “like” our page.

Chaminade

Knights of Columbus offered baked fish

Foremost

GAMEDAY GRILLE !

Hasty Tasty with Big Ragu

Holy Trinity

Our Lady of Rosary

Dayton Rugby Club

SLYDERS !

St Francis Fish Fry

St Helens Fish Fry had chicken !

St Anthonys Fish Plate

St Charles Fish Fry

St Helens Pouring gold

St Henrys about to open

Date to be determined

One of the best fish frys ever

St Pauls Plate

St Peter Fish Fry plate

Yankee Trace

Alter

Carroll

Cracker Barrell

Holy Trinity Plate

St Albert- made a fish sandwich

St Christophers is one of the best around

St Francis had baked fish too !

Who’d You Rather? Bob Evans or Cracker Barrel +$25 Gift Card

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Are you down with “Down on the Farm?”

Breakfast …the most important meal of the day.

We don’t think the health nuts had the country style breakfasts we are going to talk about in mind when they said that.  Biscuits, country gravy, pancakes, waffles, french toast, bacon, sausage, eggs, and list goes on.  When traveling  (or near home), there is nothing like a big, filling breakfast.  Today, we compare two places that have dominated that meal for travelers and church goers, or even just hungry people.

Today, Food Adventures asks you to look inside yourself and tell us,

Or are you a Cracker Barrel addict?

“Who’d You Rather” get it on with … BOB EVANS or  CRACKER BARREL ?

Yes, these two giants are chains, and on rare occasions we will write about chains because we have no rules.   So relax, the parking lots at these places are full so there’s that…

This article is in the spirit of the TMZ headlines.. Who’d you rather??

Bob Evan’s Pancakes

You may have noticed our other head to head installments like “Five Guys or Smashburger?”  or “El Rancho Grande or El Toro?” or how about “Chipotle or Qdoba?” and even most recently Who’d You Rather, “Fricker’s or Rooster’s?”

Comment below on today’s article WHO’D YOU RATHER? BOB EVANS or  CRACKER BARREL and win a $25 gift card to your favorite choice, compliments of Food Adventures.  Winner will be chosen at random next week using random.org.

Let’s get to the breakdown…

 

HUNGRY JAX VOTE: CRACKER BARREL 
This skinny, hungry mom is hooked on two menu items that have stolen her heart … Cracker Barrel’s

Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak

Pancakes and Cracker Barrel’s Potato Casserole.  For her this makes the choice clear.  The kid from up North picks the place from down South.

 

BIG RAGU’S VOTE: CRACKER BARREL:
The Big Ragu took a more mathematical approach.   Bob Evans gets the edge for best breakfasts, although both have incredible French Toast.  You know the incomparable biscuits.  And Bob Evan’s Pancakes are to die for.   But when we talk lunch and dinner, Cracker Barrel kicks some butt.  The fish dinners are silly good.  The Country Fried Steak is delicious too.  Even the side dishes like the dumplings or the fried okra are amazing.  It is pretty much a deep fried pardise with gravy for lunch and dinner.  That solidifies Ragu’s vote !  We would be remiss if we did’t give honorable mention to Bob Evan’s salmon dinner.

We have our votes – What is yours?

Baked Salmon at Bob Evans

WHO’D YOU RATHER? BOB EVANS or  CRACKER BARREL??

Don’t forget …

***Win a $25 gift card to your favorite choice, by commenting below.***

Check out Food Adventures on Facebook HERE for more Dayton Foodie fun !

Browse our gallery for more photos, comments are below the gallery.

Bob Evan’s biscuits and honey

What is breakfast without OJ or chocolate milk?

Bob Evan’s French toast

Bob Evan’s Pot Pie

Delicious burgers at Bob Evans

Cracker Rockers

French Toast – Cracker Barrel

Old School Cracker Barrel decor

Barrel Syrup

Cracker Barrel Breakfast

Chicken Fried Steak dinner with okra and dumplings

Cracker Barrel French toast

Bob Evan’s bacon and home fries

Sweet tea

Country Style at Cracker Barrel

Mashed Taters at Cracker Barrel

the dumplings at Cracker Barrel are amazing

Cracker Barrel Fireplace

Home Fries – Bob Evans

Campfire meals at Bob Evans

Bob Evans Burger

Bacon cooked perfectly at Bob Evans

Biscuits and jelly

Bob Evan’s Biscuits

 

 

French toast- Bob Evan’s

Bob Evan’s breakfast

Biscuits and Jelly – Bob Evans

Biscuits, honey and butter at Cracker Barrel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MCL Cafeteria: Not Just for Granny Anymore

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MCL Cafeteria, Not just for Grandma Anymore

“Hey you wanna join us for dinner?”

–Yeah sure…

“Ok meet us over at MCL Cafeteria..”

–MCL???? What ??

Yes it’s true.  There is a young movement underway.  Slowly, but surely, the nation’s seniors are sharing their well kept secret.  What secret?  They know that the

From Coconut Cream Pie to Pumpkin Pie, the desserts are where it’s at

food at MCL Cafeteria is actually pretty decent !  Sure it is a chain and we at Food Adventures conquer the local local local… but damn, Sam, take a lookie here.  Yes, there are walkers, people with dentures and mostly soft food.  But the comfort food is reminiscent of home made, family get-together dinners.

So, it is basically a senior place, and it is pretty cool .. think of it as “a Grandpa who uses SnapChat.”  You wanna hang out with that guy.  So is the case here.  This is no metamucil Food Adventure.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on MCL CAFETERIA:

See the colors of the rainbow on the assembly line of MCL Cafeteria

—In 1950, in Indianapolis, Charles McGaughey and George Laughner founded the first MCL Cafeteria. They took the first letters of their last names, hence the name MCL.

—The Dayton area MCL Cafeteria is located at 4485 Far Hills Ave, Kettering

—With 16 locations in Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, their website says they maintain a family owned and operated company.

Roast Beef ready to be Carved

—They use local produce when in season, and offer catering, and have a special section for “to-go” orders, which is really busy.

—Their hours are shorter, because Granny needs her beauty sleep.  They close at 8:30pm. They open everyday at 11am, except Sundays which is 10:30am.

—You walk in and in assembly line fashion, get a tray, and pick your food “a la carte.”

—The daily deal is the “Blue Plate Special” is $8.95 and includes an entree and 2 sides, typically.  That’s blue plate, not blue hair special…

Salads and Fruits offered

 

With an empty tray and so many choices, what are you gonna do?  What are you going to get? Grandpa is nudging you in the ribs with his cane, to keep you moving along….  From our numerous trips over the past year to MCL, we got you covered with our patented “MUST EATS!”

 

She’s My Cherry Pie !

MUST EATS at MCL CAFETERIA:

—THE PIES:
 These are the highlight of the assembly line and placed at the end for good reason.  From Cherry Pie made with Michigan cherries to Chocolate Cream Pie.  Even the Peach Pie and Pecan Pie with fresh Georgia Pecans make outstanding choices.  Even better than that, they are delicious.  When in doubt, grab a piece of pie to guarantee a happy ending at MCL Cafeteria.

 

—THE FRIED WHOLE CATFISH:  
These babies are dipped in milk and covered with

Fried Catfish – one of our faves at MCL

seasoned cornmeal.  After frying, these crispy Louisiana fish give you a crunch, then melt in your mouth feeling.  The tartar sauce for dipping is the perfect finishing touch. Big Ragu’s Favorite !

 

—SWISS VEAL:  
When they say “try the veal,” they really mean it this time.  A fried veal cutlet, covered with Swiss cheese, then covered with a white

Swiss Veal – a cult favorite at MCL

gravy.  Probably one of the better choices, like many of these plates, it has that homemade, family feel, close to that of Thanksgiving.

 

—SALISBURY STEAK:
A good looking chopped steak, grilled up nice and juicy, then covered in gravy.  May we suggest mashed potatoes to take you back to your childhood?  Corn for the closer?  Sometimes the sides make all the difference in the entree.

 

—ACORN SQUASH SIDE:

The best side at MCL Cafeteria is the Acorn Squash

If you see this side, stop the line abruptly and grab one.  What a great deal this deliciously baked veggie is, with a buttery syrup juice in the cavity inside.   This is heaven on earth and a definite MUST EAT !

 

—FRIED CHICKEN:
One of the kings of comfort food, MCL serves it up golden brown with all the fixings. This is possibly their most popular item. Again the comfort food and southern feel of this entree with the sides, will have you dreaming of old family dinner days.

 

Chicken Parm

—CHICKEN PARMESAN:
A fresh chicken breast, hand-breaded with seasoned crumbs from their bakery, fried to the perfect shade of golden brown. They top it with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Served with pasta and topped with more marinara sauce (optional).

 

HONORABLE MENTION:
The Salads are very good, and nice and fresh.  Also, the dinner rolls are amazing, with a dab of butter.  They have a variety of side breads to choose from, all made in their on-site bakery.

Fresh Salads

So now you know about the food, he on-site bakery and the glowing clientele, you may see MCL Cafeteria in a different light.  Give it a visit for your own family Food Adventure.  Kids love the assembly line and the looks and smells.  MCL is also a great place if you are alone and want a quick in and out dinner or lunch.  It is not cheap dining, and by the time you get a drink and dessert or bread side, you’re looking at $15-$17 per person, so be fair warned.  But the food is worth it.

The long walk to the cafeteria assembly line

This place isn’t just for grandparents anymore.  You cannot deny that they have some great home made items on the menu.  It is homestyle cooking the whole group can enjoy.  We are starting to notice more and more young people at the cafeteria.

What time do the 90 year olds go, typically?  Depends…

Want more fun spin on local eateries?  Visit Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here.  The Food Adventure Crew consists of the Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax.  Bringing you perspectives of local food from a foodie bachelor’s, a locally obsessed professional chef and an Italian mom’s point of view.  Original events, photos, website and classes are just some of what we offer.

Please browse the food porn gallery below from our various visits to MCL Cafeteria.

Fried Chicken and more for the plucking

EARLY HOURS !

Fish and more

Dinner rolls

Peach friggin Pie

Sugar Pie and puddings

Stewed tomatoes

Roast Beef

Twice baked potato and Swiss Veal

More Salads

Chopped Steak, mashed potatoes/Gravy, Mac n Cheese

Closing the place down at 8:30pm

There’s always room for jello

Serving up Baked fish and Chicken Parm

Baked Chicken

Sausages and Kraut

We got the Beets

Fried chicken

Foccacia Rolls

Dont they know the damage Hungry Jax would do ??

Outside

Toss my salad

More salads

Chicken Croquette and baked fish

Getting the scoop

Pecan Pie

Hey Grandpa! Take us to MCL !!

Carved Turkey

Chocolate Creme Pie

Corn Bread

Salsbury steak

Chicken Parmesan

 

 

 

 

 

 

Full Scoop on the 2017 Dayton Area Fish Frys

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Alter HS Fish Fry is a huge event

Dayton Most Metro has the full list of the areas fish fry’s for 2017 listed RIGHT HERE.  Food Adventures has been visiting all of these fish frys each year, for years and we have the scoop on each one.

How do we know?  Because we actually go to each one and support the causes!  Most fish frys serve Alaskan Pollok or Cod.  A couple serve Haddock, and catfish !

NO ONE else breaks down 35 Dayton area fish frys like The Food Adventures Crew … join us…

So, cast your nets, throw your bait i, n the water and see what you can catch this fish fry season !!

We knock .em down below and list them from the MOST EXTRAVAGANT ones, to the TOP FISH FRYS, and BEST RESTAURANT FISH FRYS.  We will list

A serving from Incarnation’s Fish Fry

some fish frys we are putting on our hit list to visit for the first time this year.  Also we have scoop on a “Do it yourself Fish Fry” at home !  Start reading and be the smartest fish in your school.

 

First, Food Adventures starts with the big shows, the huge events, the largest production and biggest number of activities and selections.

Here’s the list of the MOST EXTRAVAGANT fish frys .. in order

St Peter’s in Huber Heights – huge selection of food & casino games

THE 4 MOST EXTRAVAGANT FISH FRYS:

—1.  ALTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FISH FRY:  FRI. FEB 24 at 7pm
940 E David Rd, Kettering
The Dayton area’s largest fish fry, it is a sight to behold.  Located at Alter High School gym and cafeteria, it is a huge display of casino games and a gigantic amount of silent auction prizes.  $15 gets you all you want fish, sides and pop.  Beer and wine, is extra.  Promises to draw a big crowd. If you want the big, Grandaddy of them all event .. this is it … Say hi to the Big Ragu who will be dealing blackjack.

 

—2. ST PETER’S FISH FRY: SAT. FEB 25 at 5:30pm

Carroll HS like most fish fry’s serve draft beer


6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
Since it is on a Saturday, they offer fish, sausages, wings and much more.  There is enough food to line the length of a basketball court.  The entire gym is decked out from horse races to blackjack.  The price is about $15 and includes a couple drink tickets.  The line is a big one so get there EARLY.  They usually surprise with one craft beer at the coolers.  Big crowd, good times.

 

—3. INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 10 at 7pm
55 Williamsburg Ln, Centerville
Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish frys.  Also a BIG casino after party, with lots of folks.

Like St Mary’s some serve Sausages on Saturdays or Fridays before lent

Big Ragu deals blackjack here from time to time, so please come, eat, drink and be merry.  This event gets extra points for decor and silent auction.  Typically the cost is about $18 and includes all you can eat fish, sides and soda pop.  Craft beer for sale too, the biggest selection of the fish frys.

 

—4. CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL’S ST PAT’S FEST FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 10 at 6pm
4524 Linden Ave.  Dayton
Everyone is Irish for this fish fry celebration.  $18 is admission gets you fish, sides and some draft beers. Held in the cafeteria and gymnasium, they have a baked fish option and lots of desserts.  A friendly staff, with tons of silent auction items, raffle prizes and of course some games of chance.  Will you hit the luck of the Irish at this party?(March 11th is a free family event).

Desserts are often a part of admission like this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake from Our Lady of the Rosary

 

Now Food Adventures turns to the best fish frys.  The ones who give you best bang for your buck and maybe not the long lines of other fish frys.  Must be 21 to attend, except for the fish frys that are family events.

 

THE BEST 15 CHARITY FISH FRYS:

—1. ST MARY’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 3 at 6pm
310 Allen St, Dayton
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church.  There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games.  This is one of the best bangs for your buck.  The cost is $15 and you get fish dinner with all the trimmings.  You can buy beers on draft for about 50 cents.  And a dessert table for extra $1 per item will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.  Short lines, nice volunteers and a comfortable atmosphere.

Games of chance like this dice game at Holy Trinity are common

—2. OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY FISH FRY: FRI. Feb 10 at 6pm
22 Notre Dame Ave.  Dayton
This is our old #1 fish fry.  It is still the best, but the secret is out and the lines are long.  Take advantage of their multiple dates and get there early.  $17 gets you endless food and beer, they don’t nickel and dime you here.  This is a fun, laid back party. All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot and regular), French fries, salad, cole slaw, cabbage and noodles, chocolate cake, apple crisp, popcorn, beer and soft drinks, and Chef Joseph, you get us with that peanut butter sheet cake every year.  Talk about religious experience… but the cat is out of the bag on this secret, so get there early or the line will be around the cafeteria, but the fish here is different than any other.

Dayton Rugby Clubs fish fry is delicious – Chef David Glynn makes sure of it

—3. HOLY TRINITY FISH FRY: SAT. MAR 4 at 6:30pm
272 Bainbridge St, Dayton
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners.  They treat you like family.  At a cost of about $15 you get 3 beer tickets and food.  The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.  This is a real fun event that captures the essence of a fish fry.

 

—4. DAYTON RUGBY CLUB: FRI. MAR 31 at 7pm.
 5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
 This ranking is because the fish is so good.  Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.  Big lines, but the fish is worth it.  It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish breading.  Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do.  A fun boisterous crowd.  Lots of food, laughs and fun.

Lots of pop – like this table at Holy Angels Fish Fry

 

—5. HOLY ANGELS FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 13 at6pm
1322 Brown Street, Dayton
 Near the campus of U.D., this is one of the friendliest crews you can hang out with.  A nice hot batch of fish hits the pan every few minutes.  The line is not bad and the cafeteria area holds the eats and raffle prizes.  Check out the goods and the beer is CHEAP.  $15 bucks for a delicious fish fry cooked by the “Corpus Christi Fryers.”

 

—6. ST HELENS FISH FRY: SAT. JAN 28th at 6:30pm
605 Granville Pl, Dayton
Riverside’s best fish fry.   $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner.  They are also

St Helens and other fish frys are on Saturdays and offer chicken too

having sausages and chicken !  This is a comfortable crowd, not too busy, and not too empty.  It is just right.  Lots of chances for casino games as well.

 

—7. ST PAULS CATHOLIC CHURCH FISH FRY: NOT UNTIL DEC. 2017
 1000 Wenger Rd, Englewood
(They already held their fish fry in December, catch them later this year, it is worthwhile).

 

The Fish from St Paul’s fish fry in Englewood

—8. OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY: SAT. MAR 4 at 6pm
249 Squirrel Rd, Dayton
Just $15 gets you into this fantastic party and fish fry.  The lines are not long and the food is good.  Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included!  The Corpus Christi Fryers will be serving up some lovin spoonfuls.

 

—9. ST ANTHONY’s FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 24 at 6pm
830 Bowen St., Dayton
Great atmosphere, great fish.  Plenty of blackjack tables for afterwards fun.  Cost is $15 and includes fish dinner, sides and a couple beer tickets. The lines can get long, so get there early for this one.  Good Food, fun

The Corpus Christi Fryers are a great volunteer group

crowd, nice big pieces of Alaskan pollok.

 

—10. ST ALBERT THE GREAT FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 20, 6pm
3033 Far Hills Ave, Dayton
$20 at the door gets you a full, endless fish dinner.  In the past the Hecht family has run this fish fry.  Nice, big pieces of fish, breaded and cooked perfectly.  You should get a couple of beer tickets with admission as well.  this fish fry also has

St Anthony Fish Fry Volunteers

a lot of raffle prizes to win.

 

—11. ST CHARLES FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 17, 4:30pm
4500 Ackerman Blvd. Kettering 
Kid friendly until 6pm.  This fish fry gives you a chance to bring the whole family from 4:30pm -6pm.  After that it goes to over 21.  Great fish, short lines and a lot of fun.  We suggest getting there about 5-530pm to get a good seat. Tickets are about $16 and include a couple of beer tickets, as well as fish, slaw and fries.

Lots of fish frys serve bread and tartar so you can make a sandwich – like this one from St Albert

 

—12. CHAMINADE JULIENNE’S FISH FRY: SAT. MAR. 18th at 6pm.
505 South Ludlow Street, Dayton 
Cost is $20 at the door includes all the beer and food you want.  We love this all inclusive approach and the fish is good so this one is the best up and coming fish fry.  Held in the school they get a great crowd, get there early as lines form !

 

—13. ST LUKES FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 3rd and FRI. MAR 17th at 5:15-6:45pm
1440 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
This one is run by the school and is a delicious dinner, not all you can eat.  You are offered baked and fried fish, slaw and fries.  They have one of the biggest dessert selections we had run into.  Plenty of soda available.  This is a FAMILY fish fry, so no beer or alcohol is served.  Cost is about $10 for adults, $5 children 4-12, 3 and under free.  

Fish from St Charles Fish Fry

—14. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 20th, 6pm
4293 Powell Road, Huber Heights
The menu includes beverages, both fried and baked fish, sausage, chicken nuggets, beans, corn, macaroni and cheese, and all the fixings. The price is $14 for adults.

 

—15. ST. HENRY’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 3 at 7pm
6696 Springboro Pike, Dayton
They have a live auction and Texas hold em too !  Price is about 16 bucks for the all you can eat typical fish dinner with fries and slaw.  Have fun and gamble.  The atmosphere is very relaxed and jovial at this fun fish fry.

Desserts from Chaminade Fish Fry

 

—16. ST. FRANCIS of ASSISI‘s FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 3, 6pm
6245 Wilmington Pike, Bellbrook
If you get there early, you will be having round 2 of food before most people have even gotten into line.  This is a big fish fry held in the cafeteria and the seating gets full.  The fish is filling and they offer some other sides besides just slaw and fries.

 

Many events have baked fish option like this one from St Luke’s Church

Chef House, the Big Ragu and Hungry Jax are all about the restaurant scene too.  Take it from us, here are the fish frys you want to experience.  Some are year round, some are limited times.  All are worth it !

Here they are…

THE TOP 8 DAYTON AREA RESTAURANT FISH FRYS:

—1. HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:
3509 Linden Ave, Dayton
$8.75 – endless fish fries and cole slaw offered 52 weeks a year on Fridays. What a deal!  The fish is delicious, light, huge pieces cooked with a perfect and crunch.  Excellent food, old school atmosphere, nuff said.

St Henry’s Fish Fry

 

—2. YANKEE TRACE GOLF CLUB:
10000 Yankee St, Centerville
Endless fish, cole slaw and fries for $15 per person.  This goes every Friday through April 14th.  Delicious, filling, and ooohh is that fish good and crunchy!

 

—3. TIPP O’ THE TOWN:
1150 W. Main St, Tipp City
All you can eat on Fridays and Wednesdays every week all year, all day long.  For $9.79 it comes with fries and slaw.  A great place, that gets overlooked up north.

St Francis fish fry in Bellbrook is a busy one

—4. K.J.’S RESTAURANT:
35 W Center St, Germantown
This Germantown restaurant features all you can eat farm raised catfish, 2 sides, for $8.99.  What a price!  The catfish is nice and flaky and not “fishy.”  We think you’re gonna enjoy this one!

 

—5. GAMEDAY GRILL and PATIO:
7576 OH-48, Waynesville, OH
Popular spot at the edge of Waynesville/Centerville.  Their fish fry runs every Friday during lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter).  It is not all you can eat.  The price is $12.25 for Alaskan Pollock includes 2 big pieces, fries and slaw and extra filets are +$3 each. These guys know how to cook good food.  Try it for some of the best around.

Hasty Tasty Fish Fridays are year round and the best deal

 

—6. SLYDER’S FISH FRY:
836 Watervliet Ave., Dayton
Every Friday, is the deal. Three pieces of walleye (not all you can eat) for $7.75.  Served with fries and slaw.  This is the only time you will not get a burger here.

 

—7. WHOLE FOODS FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
1050 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Centerville 
Fish dinner by the pound.  Beer Battered Cod, every Friday in the hot plate area sold with french fries at $8.99 a pound.

Yankee Trace has an excellent fish fry for $15

—8. CRACKER BARREL FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville,  and 7171 Miller Ln, Dayton
Fried Cod on Friday for $9.99.  Add the best sides in show business like the dumplings or okra and you’ve got a cure hitting your hunger.  They start serving at 11am and you can choose from Cod or Catfish.  We’re HOOKED ~

 

SIX FISH FRYS ON OUR HIT LIST IN 2017 (They should be on yours too !):

—1. BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL FISH FRY: SAT JAN 21, 6pm

Gameday Grill in Waynesville has a Fish dinner on Fridays

6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
$12 in advance gets you fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw and more!! Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop and more) also included.  Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!  Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.

 

—2. EINTRACHT SINGING SOCIETY FISH FRY: APR 7 at 6pm and MAY 5 at 6pm
2707 Old Troy Pike, Dayton
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, and Cole Slaw.  Soda & draft beer included in the price so, for $14 a person, it is all you can eat night !

 

Alter’s silent auction area

—3. HUBER HEIGHTS ROTARY FISH FRY: SAT. FEB 11 at 6pm
5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
$15 tickets include food and drink. There will be raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and Monte Carlo games. All funds raised benefit “Needy Family Christmas Program.”

 

—4. PARTNERS FOR COMMUNITY LIVING FISH and CHIP FRY: FRI. MAR 3 at 6pm
5367 Fishburg Rd, Huber Heights
Highly acclaimed fish fry.  Tickets are $20 at the door, and the buzz is nothing but good about this event.  We can’t wait to sink our teeth into their fish!

The dessert table at Carrolls Fish fry

—5. ST. BRIDGID FISH FRY:FRI. MAR 24 at 6pm 
312 Fairground Road, Xenia
Sounds like besides a great fish fry, they will have lots of casino games like Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo.  Tickets are $15 for this one.

 

—6. ST CHRISTOPHERS FISH FRY: SAT. JAN 28 at 6pm
435 East National Road, Vandalia
$15 cost to enter and it is being run by the Corpus Christi Fryers, so you know it is gonna be great.

 

One last thing to consider….an option of having your very own fish fry….

Foremost Seafood can help you with your own fish fry (fresh tilapia here)

*** DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY OPTION ***:

— FOREMOST SEAFOOD‘S “DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY”:  Here is an option you wont see anywhere else.  How about hosting your own fish fry party?  Foremost Seafood, off of Woodman Drive, sells everything you need to make sure you have the perfect party.  And you can pick which type of fish you want.  From Catfish, Walleye, Haddock, Perch, pollack, to tilapia and much more.  Call (937) 298-1986, ask for Tom to talk about your fish fry.t’s it 

 

WHEWWWWWW !  That’s it !  Hook, line and sinker….

Always the most thorough scoop on Dayton eats, Food Adventures can be found on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Please “like” our page.

Carroll HS baked fish option

A pile of fish at Chaminade

Hasty Tasty Pancake House – a fish refill looks like this

Pull tabs at Our Lady of the Rosary Fish fry

Holy Angels Fish Fry

A Labatts in a Yeungling cup at Holy Angels Fish Fry

Holy Trinity – our first plate

Incarnation Fish fry casino area

Desserts at Our Lady of the Rosary in the kitchen

Dayton Rugby Club fish Fry crowd

Bread for St Alberta Fish fry

St Anthony has the typical condiments

St Charles Fish Fry

St Charles Fish Fry

St Francis offers baked fish too

Hush puppies at St Helens

Pabst at St Helens

St Mary’s fish fry prep

St Marys desserts

St Paul’s dessert table

Wings, dogs, and more at St Peters

Yankee Trace Fish Fry

Yankee Trace Fish Fry

Where’s The Fish Fry? DMM’s 2017 Fish Fry Guide

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When it comes to fish fry, Dayton doesn’t mess around.  You may not be able to predict the weather in the winter, but we can sure predict that Friday’s mean fried fish, draft beer, raffles and gambling from Jan – April.

Over the past several years, the popularity of fish fries has grown tremendously, schools, club and athletic leagues have joined the trend and Saturday’s are often on the schedule now, too!

At a typical  fish fry, you’ll be able to eat fish and chips, enjoy a few beers, bid on some amazing silent auction items, and play some black jack. Some are adults only, some are family friendly and most will even do takeout.  The cost is around $15 per fish fry, which is much cheaper than a night out on the town…plus you can say you are eating, drinking, shopping, and gambling for the kids!

Here’s our annual guide. If you know about others, please feel free to add them in the comments section.

Friday, Jan 13

Our Lady of the Rosary Church   5:30 pm – 10:00 pm

VOTED DAYTON’S BEST FISH FRY! All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot & regular), french fries,…

Holy Angels Catholic Church   6:00 pm – 11:00 pm  $15
includes food, beverages, games, raffle & fun!

Friday, Jan 20

St. Albert the Great   7:00 pm – 11:59 pm  $15 advance $20 door
The Silent Auction is our biggest money-maker.

Saturday, Jan 21

The 7th Annual Brick City Blast Fish Fry and Monte Carlo Night  at St Peter  6:00 pm – 11:00 pm   $12

Fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw, Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop) also included. Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!

Saturday, Jan 28

St. Christopher Church  6:00 pm – 11:00 pm   $15

Enjoy All you can eat fish by the Corpus Christi Fryers, Games of Chance, Raffle, Auction and much more!

St. Helen Catholic Church  6:30 pm   $20

Riverside’s best fish fry.   $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner.

Friday, Feb 3

 

St. Henry, Our Lady of Good Hope, Bishop Leibold School Monte Carlo & Fish Fry

at St. Henry Catholic Church 7:00 am – 11:59 pm

Enjoy all you can eat fish, Auction, Texas Hold ‘Em and much more!   21 and over
Eintracht Singing Society 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm  $14
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, Cold Slaw.  Soda & Draft Beer Included
St. Mary Catholic Church  6:00 pm – 10:30 pm   $15
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church.  There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games.

Saturday, Feb 4

Fairborn Lions Club & Fish Fry Fun Night  6-10pm  $13 advance $15 door
All you can eat, limited beer, Melody Cold slaw, entertainment and a lot of fun.

Friday, Feb 10

Our Lady of the Rosary Church   6:00 pm    $17
VOTED DAYTON’S BEST FISH FRY!   All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot and regular), French fries, salad, cole slaw, cabbage and noodles, chocolate cake, apple crisp, popcorn, beer and soft drinks.

Saturday, Feb 11

Huber Heights Rotary Fish Fry/ Monte Carlo

Huber Heights Athletic Center 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm $12 advance – $15 door

Come join the club with good food and drink. Raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and monte carlo games will be available for your entertainment.

Friday, Feb 24

Alter Fish FryAlter High School 7:00 pm – 11:55 pm  $13 advance $15 door

 Come and enjoy all you can eat fish and trimmings, traditional beverages, a silent auction, adult games, Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament, friends and FUN! Must be 21 to attend

St. Anthony Fish Fry6:00 pm – 11:00 pm  $13 advance – $15 door

Enjoy a delicious fish dinner, have a beer, play monte carlo games, and take a chance on raffles. The Corp


Saturday, Feb 25

Saint Peter Fish Fry   5:30 pm – 11:00 pm   $10 – $15

All you can eat fish, sausage, fries, coleslaw, wings, baked beans, and beer/soda

Friday, March 3

Eintracht Fish Fry Friday – All You Care To Eat

 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm $14

 Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, Cold Slaw.  Soda & Draft Beer Included

Partners Fish ‘N Chips Fish Fry

Huber Heights Athletic Center 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm   $15 – $20

Many of our guests tell us it’s the best fish dinner in town and we agree!

 

Fenwick Fish Fry & Monte Carlo  Bishop Fenwick High School   6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

The Athletic Department and Athletic Association will host the 4th annual Fish Fry & Monte Carlo event at Bishop Fenwick

 

St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church    5:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Enjoy Fish prepared by the Hecht Family, French Fries, Slaw, Baked Beans, Applesauce and more.

 

St. Luke the Evangelist   5:15 pm – 6:45 pm  $10 adults $5 kids
This one is run by the school and is a delicious dinner, not all you can eat.  You are offered baked and fried fish, slaw and fries.  They have one of the biggest dessert selections we had run into.  Plenty of soda available.  This is a FAMILY fish fry, so no beer or alcohol is served.

Saturday, March 4

OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY     6:00 pm

Just $15 gets you  Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included!

 

Holy Trinity Catholic Church   6:30 pm    $15
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners.  You get 3 beer tickets and food.  The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.

Friday, March 10

Carroll St. Pat’s Fest Fish Fry7:00 pm – 11:00 pm  $15 advance $18 door

The Carroll St. Pat’s Fest, presented by the Carroll High School Alumni Association, Patriot Booster Club and Carrolleer Band Parents, includes Baked & Fried Icelandic Cod; red beans & rice; popcorn; drink tickets for beer, wine, soda, and bottled water; and lots of delicious sides…

INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY    Incarnation Catholic Church  @ 7:00 pm

Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish fries.

 

Friday, March 17

St. Charles Borromeo Parish  4:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Kid friendly until 6pm.  This fish fry gives you a chance to bring the whole family from 4:30pm -6pm, after that it’s 21 and up

Saturday, March 18

CJ Fish Fry  Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School  6:00 pm – 11:00 pm   $15 advance – $20 door

Games at 7:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening at CJ with a great Fish Fry, Games, Silent auction.  21 and over

Friday, March 24

St Brigid Fish Fry   St. Brigid Catholic School & Church   6:00 pm   $15

Fish, Fries, Coleslaw, Beer and Soft Drinks as well as games: Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer,  Instant Bingo and more!

Friday, March 31

Dayton Rugby Club Fish Fry     Huber Heights Athletic Center    at 7pm
Chef David Glynn has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.

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Friday, April 7

Eintracht Fish Fry Friday – All You Care To Eat 

 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm $14

 Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, Cold Slaw.  Soda & Draft Beer Included

 

Cassano’s to Open London Bobby On Old Hickory Site

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London Bobby is back on Main Street

One legendary restaurant site, will turn into another legend this winter.   The site of the new Cassano’s / London Bobby Fish & Chips will be at 4029 N. Main St. in Dayton.  Food Adventures has learned that the site will not only be a new Cassano’s, but they are planning on offering an entire London Bobby Fish & Chips Menu.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The new restaurant is expected to open in the October/November time frame.

— The site is on the grounds of the recently demolished Old Hickory Restaurant at 4029 N. Main St. in Dayton. 

London Bobby Fish and Chips

— For you nostalgic Daytonians who remember the London Bobby Fish & Chips around town in the 1970’s and 80’s, this will bring back some memories.

— Bringing back the London Bobby brand is a plan that Vic Cassano Jr. had before his passing.   The next generation of Cassano  family is seeing that vision through as a tribute to him.  It is also a great rebirth of a Dayton favorite, and welcome news to many Miami Valley residents.

The new Cassano’s will offer all of your pizza favorites and even cassini sandwiches, calzones and the subs you’ve grown to love.  But let’s take a look at what will be a part of the London Bobby menu.

If you can’t wait for the opening, visit the Stroop Rd.  Cassano’s location or the store in Trenton, Ohio for your London Bobby fix.

 

SO .. royal subjects…. Hear ye, hear ye !  Your majesty the Pizza King and Food Adventures announce the patented London Bobby “Must Eats”

 

FUTURE MUST EATS at THE NEW LONDON BOBBY on N. MAIN STREET.

The Big Cheese Pizza will be on the menu too !

— THE FISH AND CHIPS : Three pieces of battered fish, fries, two hushpuppies and cole slaw.  Splash on some vinegar to make it “authentic,” old chap.

— EXTRA ORDER OF HUSHPUPPIES:  Avoid fighting or wishing you had more.. order about 8 extra like we do and watch the hands grab!

— BASKET OF ONION RINGS:  Beer battered and cooked to order.

— THE FISH SANDWICH:  This delicious beer battered treat is

Flaky fish, splash it with vinegar to go old school, fool !

perfect for on the go.

 

So there you have it … you have Italy and England in one spot.  Your fave Big Cheese Pizza isnt going anywhere, you just may be tempted to order some fish as well.   Congratulations to the Cassano family, Sharon, Lora, Chris and Chip.  Thank you for bringing back a lost piece of Dayton.

Browse the photos below and feel free to comment at the bottom and share your memories.

Hushpuppies – get some extra , so there’s no fighting

For more original photos and content “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.    7,000 fans cant be wrong.

Food Adventures is a blog run by 3 local foodies.  You can expect a feature article every week on MostMetro, year round.  Together Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu explore Dayton’s greatest foods.  From farmers markets, to fine dining, we eat it all.  Look for our dinner events, festival appearances and upcoming cooking classes on our website www.DaytonFoodies.com.  Since 2008, turning over every plate !

Until then .. tally ho .. carry on… Mr Watson I presume and all that stuff…

The Pizza King is gonna open another store!

The Big Cheese is still here

Chicken Parm

Fish and Chips

The dough

North Main will have all the subs too !

Try the Cassini Burger – it is AWESOME

Calzones will be served at the North Main location

London Bobby is coming back to North Dayton

Onion Rings

Deluxe

The Pizza King !

Cassanos Delivers the Taste

London Bobby’s Fish and Chips

Yankee Trace Friday Fish Frys Return

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$14.95 All You Can Eat Fish Frys Through Nov. 20th

The Golf Club at Yankee Trace has brought back their fish frys for a limited time this fall, and the Food Adventures Crew has the scoop.  The “All U Can Eat” events will happen each Friday night from 5pm-9pm at the restaurant inside the clubhouse.  The tradition continues through November 20th, and will return during Lenten season as it has for many years.  the hand breaded haddock is some of the best in town, and the fact that it is endless, means you wont walk away hungry.  Each dinner comes with endless deep fried haddock, cole slaw and french fries.  Here is the down low on one of the best kept secrets in Centerville.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— WHAT: Friday Evening Fish Fry Dinners

— WHERE: The Golf Club at Yankee Trace’s Restaurant, 10000 Yankee St., Centerville Ohio 45458

— WHEN: Every Friday night 5pm-9pm from now through November 20th

— COST: $14.95 per person

** Important: Reservations are required (937) 438-3585

 

Swim up to Yankee Trace and dive in to this deal.  An all you can eat Food Adventure awaits!

Follow The Food Adventures of Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu and Chef House on Facebook by clicking here and “liking” our page.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now until Nov 20th, Fish Fry Fridays !

Haddock

Dining Area

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chicken Louie’s Resurrected in Miamisburg Subby’s + Wing Dinner Giveaway!

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Chicken Louie’s is BAAACK !

A 50 year old Dayton business thought closed forever, is making a big comeback in a Miamisburg Super Subby’s Restaurant.  The return of Chicken Louie’s menu in Dayton has area foodies going beserk.   The fever has hit the Food Adventures Crew, and we have made 3 visits so far.  Guess what, we were very impressed!

HISTORY: Since 1958, Chicken Louie’s has been delighting crowds with their food.  Many of you may remember Chicken Louie’s and  Lou’s Broaster Hut that were located on N. Main and on Third Streets with “take out only” format.  They were 24 hour places and people drove in from miles around to get the goods.  In 2001, the N. Main Street location closed briefly then was re-opened when Lou sold the store to Joe Beach.  That store was in business until November 2008, when  Daytonians had their hearts broken, and it closed.  Then on January 30th, 2014 Chicken Louie’s was relaunched in a partnership inside Subby’s Miamisburg location.  Sadly, Louie passed away in 2012 and was not able to see the re-opening of his brand.  We think he would be proud of the results, and now thousands of Dayton residents can once again GET THEIR CHICKEN  LOUIE FIX !!

Click to Enlarge these Broasted Potatoes to Huge, Buttery Proportions

Speaking of getting your fix, we have a **CONTEST** where you can do just that!  You can win a DINNER with the Food Adventure Crew by commenting on the story below.  One winner will be chosen at random next week.  One comment per person, please.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Located inside Super Subbys in Miamisburg at 1242 E. Central Ave.

— Customers think the secret to Chicken Louie’s incredible chicken is the Broasting Process.. What is Broasting?  It is a patented process of deep frying the chicken in a pressure cooker.  The result is perfectly moist, breaded chicken every time.

— The REAL SECRET to Chicken Louie’s Chicken,  according to Joe Beach, is the special way he marinates the chicken before the cooking process.  Whatever the reason, we cant get enough!

— The menu is limited and not the full blown Chicken Louie’s menu.  But all the favorites are back like wings, legs, breasts, broasted potatoes, and those pies !!!

— The location also serves a full Subby’s menu.  Subby’s is a Dayton Original sandwich shop, and one of our favorites.

 — This dual concept is the only one in Dayton, but Joe Beach is looking for investors to open other “partnership” locations

 

Broasted Wings Tossed in Hot Buffalo Sauce

Broasted Wings Tossed in Hot Buffalo Sauce. Ragu says Mild BBQ Sauce is the Best

Now lets sink our teeth into the new Chicken Louie’s, with the same great taste we know and love.  We will also point out a few Subby’s favorites along the way !

Without further delay, here are this week’s MUST EATS, the best foods at Chicken Louie’s / Subby’s , that will never lay an egg….

 

CHICKEN LOUIE’S MUST EATS:

— THE BROASTED POTATOES:  Cooked perfectly, and sliced with the patented crinkle cut, these potatoes are drizzled in a spiced butter sauce.  The hot, steaming potatoes are like huge fries (about 1/5 of a potato).  If you have never had them,  we suggest you run right now and get some.  We don’t care if you are in your jammies.  This is truly something to experience and a Food Adventure Must Eat.

—THE BROASTED CHICKEN BREASTS:  Juicy, large on the breast bone, cooked perfectly every time through the broasting process.  The crunchiness of the breading is amazing.  Our “The King” says this is his favorite.  He says forgo tossing it in the sauce, it tastes so good it doesn’t need it.

The man responsible for bringing Chicken Louie’s back: Joe Beach

— THE BROASTED WINGS:  You can have them broasted (plain), mild BBQ, Medium BBQ, Hot BBQ or Hot Buffalo.  The Big Ragu says “get your wings tossed in a sauce, it’s the best way to have them!  You dark meat freaks will be happy to know that Chicken Louie’s also offers chicken legs made in the same options.

 — PEANUT BUTTER PIE: The lightest, creamiest peanut butter pie you will ever taste.  It is a dream in every fork full, and our mouth is watering while we write this.  For you chicken loving guys, get your girlfriend in the door by getting her to to try this pie.. You will have a free pass to Chicken Louie’s from there on out.

— SWEET POTATO PIE: One-of-a-kind Dayton Original.  This pie is so delicate, it is like a slice of pumpkin pie.  But it is sweet potato pie.  We have never had anything like this.  Amazing and a must eat for any real Dayton foodie.

 

As you now know,  Chicken Louie’s is inside a Subby’s restaurant in Miamisburg.  We couldn’t ignore this Dayton based sandwich chain, that has been in town since 1978.   We had to give Subby’s some love.  We won’t ruffle any feathers with these MUST EATS…

 

SUBBY’S MUST EATS:

— SUBBYS CHILI:  We know of no other place in town that dumps chunks of freshly sliced provolone and mushrooms into your chili.  the end result is phenomenal.  Cold days like today make it a perfect time for this tasty Miami Valley treat.

— THE TURKEY & PEPPERONI SUB:  A bizarre combination that just works.  Maybe it’s the bun, maybe the mayo or the Subby’s toppings.  We don’t know, when we find out, we will have our people get with your people and fill you in.

Subby’s Tuna Sub is a Must Eat !

— THE TUNA SUB:  Definitely one of the top tuna subs in Dayton.  The Big Ragu likes his tuna sub cold, but it comes in a hot version for you people who like to see that provolone melt.  This sandwich is just damn good.. period.

— SUBBYS BIG FISH:  Deep fried fish patty with tartar sauce and all the toppings.  Whe you take a bite, the hot fresh bread mix with the fish is amazing.  Very filling, it is a perfect cure to your hunger.

 

The moral of this story is: Chicken Louie’s is back for those who have missed it.  It is back, just the way you remembered it.   It is rare that a lost food icon returns to Dayton.  They even have the dinner rolls and serve it in aluminum foil.  Enjoy this rebirth of a Dayton Original!

NOW WHO WANTS A FREE CHICKEN DINNER ??? * COMMENT BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN DINNER WITH THE FOOD ADVENTURES  CREW!  One person will be drawn at random.

If you have never tried Louie’s menu, “Don’t be Chicken.”  After all, why did the chicken cross the road?  To get to Chicken Louie’s in Miamisburg, of course….

Also – If you want the coolest photos and scoop on Dayton’s eats, don’t be chicken and “LIKE” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here !

Check out our photo gallery below from our multiple trips to Chicken Louie’s !

[flagallery gid=113]

El Herradura Restaurant: Great Mexican Seafood Dishes & More

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Seafood Dishes like “Mariscos Acapulco” are ‘Must Eats’ at El Herradura Restaurant

Whether you like the authentic Taqueira style Mexican food, or the somewhat Americanized Tex-Mex food found around town, you can find both options at El Herradura Restaurant.

Food Adventures with Big Ragu and the Crew have visited this spot on Upper Valley Pike in Springfield a couple of times.  We have been there when it is packed, been there when they had Mariachi Bands, and been there on a quiet Sunday afternoon.   One night Dayton Most Metro’s own Lisa Grigsby from Dayton Dining even joined us!  So this article takes all angles into account.

The menu is extensive, and we’ve tried many dishes.  Sure, we can give honorable mention to their delicious queso and salsa, but let’s dig deeper.  We discovered some secret offerings that you can take advantage of everyday.   But,  in our opinion, when it comes to this menu, seafood is king !

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Located at 1236 Upper Valley Pike in Springfield and open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.

— They have a large outdoor patio deck with decorative umbrella tables, and a fun atmosphere

If you get a Taco, get it “Paul’s Way”

— Mom and Pop Restaurant owned by husband and wife Paul and Yadira DePuy.   Yadira is a native of Mexico, while Paul grew up in Springfield.  The menu reflects some of Yadira’s family recipes and some of Paul’s food loves.

— Large Bar area that is perfect for happy hour or “just drinks” nights.

— HD TV’s throughout the Dining Room for Sporting Events !

 

We made our way through the literally hundred options on the El Herradura menu and now we point you toward the best stuff on the menu ..

Get ready Dayton foodies,  here is your  “Must Eats!”

 

MUST EATS:

— BLUE CADILLAC MARGARITA:  This is actually a “must drink,” that packs a powerful punch.  We found this to be our favorite margarita.   In fact “The King” loved it.  His expertise in Margaritas goes back to his Air Force days in Texas!  The berry flavor is delicious.  Beware: this potent potion is a served in a big margarita glass.  Make sure if you order it, that you eat something, or you will be run over by the Blue Cadillac !

“Tilapia Cancun” at El Herradura Restaurant: You gotta try it !

—CANCUN TILAPIA: Grilled, Whole Tilapia served with rice, beans.  One of the Big Ragu’s favorite’s.  Exotic, delicious and the fish is very tender and delicate.   The filet meat slides right off the bone.  Sure, you have a whole fish on your plate, but are you a Food Adventurer or not ?  Impress your amigos, by ordering this eye catching plate.   The taste will have you hooked, pun intended.

— MARISCOS ACAPULCO: Grilled scallops, grilled shrimp, and pan seared imitation crab served on a hot fajita plate with mango, Mexican rice, lettuce, pico de gallo and guacamole.  It is creamy and delicious.  One of those meals you can’t stop eating, even when you are full.

— TACO’ S PAUL’S WAY:  This is a little known secret that is not on the menu.  It is how many of the employees and owners eat their tacos.. the authentic way.  Paul’s Way Taco’s are served  on soft corn tortillas, with your choice of meat, chopped onions, cilantro and fresh limes.  There is no cheese on this one.  Listen Gringo, these tacos are the real deal, and it is how they serve ’em up South of the border.  We suggest the chorizo meat or chicken meat in the tacos.  Get an authentic taste of Mexico City, and you don’t need a passport.

— SEAFOOD CHIMICHANGA:  Pan seared scallops, shrimp, and a cheese sauce, rolled inside a tortilla.  The Chimichanga is not huge, we could have ordered two of them.  Your friends will have a fork in your plate looking for a taste, but tell them to scram, Vamoose !  They can get their own.  This seafood chimichanga ranks among the top of all time.

Owners Yadira and Paul, DePuy, a true “Mom and Pop” Restaurant !

— SEAFOOD MOLCAJETE: Fish, Scallops, and shrimp served in a bowl with red, yellow and green bell peppers. onions, cheese, rice, tomato, lettuce and sour cream.  The pile of seafood is delicious and they’re tagline is “more shrimp than you can eat.”  This is a Food Adventure dish for sure !

— FRIED BANANA BURRITO:  Banana lovers will crave this sweet dessert.  It is like bananas foster in a blanket.  Pan seared bananas, wrapped in a tortilla then fried.  It is finished with drizzles of chocolate, caramel and cinnamon.  Not a large burrito, the size is just perfect for a delicious end to your meal, muchacho.

 

Springfield has a new El Hefe (boss) in town.  Take our lead, hit up the seafood dishes and the Paul’s way Taco’s.  Our list of Must Eat’s won’t disappoint.   Whether you live in the Springfield area, or are passing through, make El Herradura your destination for a meal, soon.  Have a cold Dos Equis on tap for us!

As we leave Springfield and get back on the road, we say to you .. ADIOS AMIGOS, see you next week…

Want more food photos and insight on Dayton’s best Food Adventures??  Then shake your maracas, and “like” Food Adventures with Big Ragu and the Crew HERE !

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Dayton’s Best Fish Fry Opens the Fall Season This Friday

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Freshly Breaded Icelandic Cod at Our Lady of the Rosary’s Fish Fry

The #1 Fish Fry as ranked by Food Adventures is kicking off their first Fish Fry of the season on Friday Night !!

The place is OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY CHURCH in Dayton who has been hosting these events for over 54 years !

We are the only ones with the scoop on this incredible deal and fun night !!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— WHERE: Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 22 Notre Dame Ave. in Dayton

— WHAT: Fish Fry  – **21 and over only !**

—NEXT: Friday, October 10th  & Friday, November 14th 

Click to Enlarge these Sausages

— COST: $13 if you pre-pay at the Parish Office, or $15 at the door the day of the event.

 

— INCLUDED: Freshly fried Icelandic Cod, Fresh Mild Sausage, Hot Polish Sausage, Chicken Strips, French Fries, Baked Beans, Salad, Cole Slaw, Homemade  Cakes, Cabbage and Noodles, Ice Cream, Popcorn, Soft Drinks, and Beer.

— WHEN: 5:30pm – 10:30pm 

— WHAT ELSE:  Gamble on pull tabs and raffle prizes!

 

 

MUST EATS:

— THE FRESHLY MADE MILD SAUSAGE: Made locally, with an old recipe that has been used for 50+ years.  Some of the best stuff we’ve had !

— THE FRESHLY BREADED COD: Made in large “sticks,” you can have all you want of these !

— HOMEMADE CAKES: Chef Joe makes these himself on site !  

Our Lady of the rosary Church – 22 Notre Dame Ave.,  Dayton, Ohio

 

What makes this event great is the friendly volunteers.  The staff are kind, dedicated and have been doing this for years.  The party is all inclusive and you are not “nickel and dimed” for extra beers, etc..  For these reasons, this is the best fish fry in the Miami Valley area, in our humble opinion.  There are old folks, young folks and ages in between.

So now you know about this little known secret.  Will we see you on Friday?  No better place for a Food Adventure !

Browse the photos below of the food and offerings at the event!

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then “LIKE” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !

 

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30 Dayton Foods, You Gotta Try Before You Die

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The Chicken Monterey at Flavors

Now that Labor Day weekend is over, here are some of OUR labor of loves.. tastefully speaking, of course.  That is the theme of this week’s Food Adventure Article   They are the 30 best foods of the Miami Valley that you probably haven’t tried.

Little known Dayton Foods that are underground classics.   

Now that you know the skinny, let’s get down and dirty with our Thirty. 

 

These are the are the 30 DAYTON MUST EATS You gotta Try, Before You Die:

1) THE SPLIT FILET SERVED WITH DRAWN BUTTER at THE PARAGON:  This steak isn’t on the menu, so you have to request it.  It is a little known secret that will melt in your mouth.  Perfectly cooked, the sinful act of dipping the steak in drawn butter is something for royalty.  Try it and see why the Paragon Supper Club is a fixture in Centerville.

 

2) CHICKEN MONTEREY from FLAVORS: Healthy meets savory in this dish.  Honestly, one of our favorite meals in the Dayton area.  The food is consistent.  Why? Quality, fresh ingredients.  Chicken Monterey is a solid dish every time.  It is served with a side of tortilla chips and the amazing garlic sauce (now available at Dorothy Lane Market).  And guess what, it is a healthy meal.  What more can you ask for ?

The Caroline Steak, at The Caroline Restaurant in Troy

3) SPRING ROLLS WITH VERMICELLI NOODLES at LITTLE SAIGON:  The best $8 you will ever spend.  Dip into the giant bowl with a pair of chopsticks and enter a Food Adventure.  Vermicelli noodles, topped with diced, vegetarian spring rolls.   Under the noodles, is a surprise of bean sprouts and lettuce.  Served with a side of vinegar sauce and topped with chopped peanuts, this little know Dayton gem is your go to for Vietnamese Food.. Trust Us ….

4) THE CAROLINE STEAK at THE CAROLINE RESTAURANT:  You will be in awe of the special, stainless steel knife served with the meal, but don’t take it home like some others have… Choose the handmade sweet potato fries as a side dish and an appetizer of whiskey or bourbon mushrooms, and this will be one of the best meals you will ever have.  We have to mention that the great staff makes The Caroline a perfect places for a date, party, or special occasion.

5) BLACK BEAN BURGER at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: We have never been black bean burger fans, until we met Chef John at the Centerville Farmer’s Market.  We tried one that was being grilled at the market, and was converted.  We respect the black bean now.  The burger is large, hearty and filling.  We recommend adding a slice of cheese.  It satisfies your carnivorous cravings.

6) 10 EGG OMELET FROM TANKS: One of the things we learned growing up in Dayton, is that there aren’t many late night eateries.  Thank God for Tanks.  If you love breakfast, they serve it any time of the day.  This is a delicious omelet that will bust your gut, and you wont eat the potatoes or toast that comes with it.  If you have a normal appetite, we recommend the 6 egg girly omelet.  The omelet has a multitude of ingredients, and whatever Tanks decides to throw in that day.

The Cheese and Onion Sandwich from Central Perc in Oakwood

7) GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH with WHITE CHEDDAR and APRICOT CHUTNEY from MEADOWLARK: One of the most simple sandwiches, is one of the most satisfying.  Ohio Northern Cheddar and apricot chutney make this incredible cheese sandwich.  Served on Dorothy Lane Market Artisan Bread, you have a guaranteed winner here.  After you it it, you will find yourself trying to replicate it at home.  

8) CHEESE AND ONION SANDWICH from CENTRAL PERC:  For the adventurous, we give you a British Sandwich. How do you get one?  Ask the owners who grew up in a small village in England to make it they way they way grew up with..ahem.. the “proper” way.  They will probably throw some butter  and Branston Pickle on there (you may want to google this pickle).  Your breath will be horrendous, but you will be happy.  On a side note, Rosie the pastry chef is insanely talented.  An incredible sandwich and tea room that is open limited hours, and accepts Cash Only.

9) BLACK N BLEU BURGER from SEAJAX: The new kid on the block, this burger is a symphony for your taste buds.  We have been all over like Terry’s Turf Club which was supposed to be the best Ohio burger per Guy Fieri, but we think this one is better.  Spend $8 and get a “corporate hamburger” (thank you Michael R Hawk), or spend $10 and get a handmade hamburger with swirled bleu cheese that will knock your socks off.

Summer in a Bowl Salad from Olive, an Urban Dive

10) THE BOURBON BURGER from BRIXX ICE CO.: This is one of our favorite burgers in the world.  It is a burger with bourbon glaze on it that makes you cry “hell yes.”  Great patio for the divas, but we prefer the bar stool seats and chowing down.  Thanks to childhood friend, owner/chef Chris Bhai for the developing a sauce that makes this burger a “must eat.”

11) HUEVOS RANCHEROS from SUNRISE CAFE:  We crave this incredible breakfast dish from the best kept secret in Yellow Springs.  The dish is corn tortillas, topped with eggs, and a black bean sauce, garnished with fresh salsa and sour cream.  Dont go hiking, instead, grab breakfast here.  They trumpet the fact that they have no deep fryers, no microwaves, just kick butt food.  Worth the trip to organicville.

12) SUMMER IN A BOWL SALAD from OLIVE, an URBAN DIVE:  Local freshness, local ingredients.  We absolutely love it.  If an artist made a salad, it would be “Summer in  a Bowl.”  We can’t put the ingredients on here, because the ingredients are seasonal.  Olive, only uses top quality materials.  Open your mouth and prepare to be dazzled.  It wont bust your budget or your pant line.

 

13) CALAMARI APPETIZER at FRANCO’S: Get the deep fried option dusted with Parmesan cheese and olive oil.  The Big Ragu, the king of fried food, usually says “Oh my god” in a over dramatic tone when they are served.  This is a tradition, when preparing for a big Italian meal at Franco’s.  Stay hungry my friends…The deep fried whole tilapia from Taco Loco

14) THE PAELLA from EL MESON: Watching them prepare it is half of the fun.  Listening to owner Bill Castro explain his passion for food and the pivotal role food plays in life is a great experience in itself.  Chef’s sprinkling rice and seafood shells while walking around the huge paella pan and flirting with the crowd.  By the time the dish is served we have teased our eyes and the aroma is amazing.  We love this family and their food.  Try this place out, if you haven’t, you aren’t experiencing Dayton.  

15) WHOLE, DEEP FRIED TILAPIA at TACO LOCO:  You can go to another restaurant and get this dish for $30 or you can get it for $8 at Taco Loco.  The dish that will freak your friends out, but leave you one happy foodie.  If you can stomach a whole fish on your plate looking at you, then this one is worth the stares… literally.  It is delicious and simple.

16) THE GRILLED PEACHES with GOAT CHEESE at LILY’s BISTRO: A seasonal treat that should be on the menu every month.  A stellar dish that steals the show at any meal.  Drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, this memorable side will blow your mind.  Thank you Lily’s for making us crave this on a daily basis….

Sweeney's Seafood House has the Best Raw Oysters in the USA !

Sweeney’s Seafood House has the Best Raw Oysters in the USA. Click to enlarge

17) THE RAW OYSTERS at SWEENEY’s SEAFOOD HOUSE:  The Big Ragu has tried oysters from coast to coast and north to south.  He concludes that the best raw oysters on the planet are at Sweeney’s Seafood.  Served on the half shell, these are chokers, not for the squeamish.  Grab a bottle of hot sauce and one of their micro brews and sling em back like a champ!

18) SPINOZIAN DELUXE PIZZA from SPINOZA’S: Homemade, fresh dough with Italian sausage, pepperoni, black olives, bell peppers,mushrooms and fontina cheese.  The pizza is always good here.  The crust is exceptional.  Pair it with one of their great salads and listen to a live band and sip on some local beer.  Not many people know about this place, but the ones that do, love it!

19) THE LAND AND SEA BLT at HARVEST MOBILE FOOD TRUCK:  This sandwich kick so much azz, that it won $10,000 for best dish at a Food Truck Rally.  Applewood bacon, smoked salmon and a ciabatta roll.  Then Harvest adds a sauce that is the money shot.     Follow this truck and see why poeple track them down all over town.  Chef Patrick continues to blow us away with cluinary creations.

 20) LOX & CHEESE CREPE at CREPE BOHEME: An ingredient list so simple, so good.  Salmon, capers and cheese all wrapped into a handmade crepe right before your eyes.  One of the reason we go to 2nd St. Market is to savor the crepes at Crepe Boheme.  Sabine is the ultimate crepe master, and her works of art will never let you down.  This is the real deal, a chef making the crepes.

21) THE PARIS OMELET at BUTTER CAFE: Love breakfast?  Love mushrooms? We suggest a spin using egg whites, goat cheese, a bit of onion and lot of mushrooms.  You haven’t lived until you take a bite of this omelet while overlooking Brown Street.  Guess what?  It is affordable and a protein powered breakfast.

The Ruck Sandwich from Dublin Pub

22) SHRIMP and SCALLOP NEWBURG at THE DOCK:  A creamy alfredo dish, with penne pasta.  This is like a pasta bake.  It is rich and delicious.  Can’t afford a trip to Florida?  Escape to The Dock in Enon and buy yourself a dinner dream, just like being on a pier.

23) THE RUCK from THE DUBLIN PUB: This is a dense beef brisket sandwich that is simply incredible.  The brisket is steamed in Guinness Beer. Topped with glob of cheese and onions, it is delicious.  It is a filling, guilty pleasure.  After eating this, you may want to call Richard Simmons to chase you around the yard in his ball hugging shorts and burn off the calories.  Or go hiking for his physique.

24) THE GYRO at CHICAGO GYRO’S and DOGS: Forget the fries, the sandwich is all you need. Loaded with meat, perfectly seasoned, it is a master piece as-is.  The atmosphere used to be sketchy at the old location, but the new location is kid friendly.  The gyros and dogs are still the same .. good food.  This place flies under the radar, and is an unsung Gyro..get it ?

Cow Patty Ice Cream even cures PMS.. that’s no Bull !

 25) DEL MAR TRIO at EL RANCHO GRANDE:  Want a great dish, at an unsuspecting place?  The order the Del Mar Trio at El Rancho Grande.  It consists of grilled lobster, tilapia and shrimp sprinkled with cheese on a hot fajita plate.  Served with tortillas.  Orgasmic.. yeah we said it..  Order one of these dishes and tell us we’re wrong.

 26) COW PATTY ICE CREAM from YOUNG’S JERSEY DAIRY:  We love this chocolate amazingness, and our friend Caryn Snyder says it is “the ultimate cure for PMS.”  It is dark chocolate ice cream, chocolate cookie pieces, chocolate covered toffee pieces and mini chocolate chips.  The cones are piled high and worth the drive to hippie Utopia.

27) THE PIZZA at SOFT ROCK CAFE: Yes, a karaoke bar has some decent pizza.  We don’t know if it is the thin crust, the cheese, or the toppings, but the pizza is addicting.  Our tip is to get at least 3 or more toppings, and try not to burn your mouth, the pies come out HOT!   Also, *** please note their kitchen is only open Thursday through Saturday at 8pm for weekend indulgence.

28) FISH WITH CHILI SAUCE at THAI9: This huge filet of golden fried fish is topped with a spicy chili sauce, and plated with a small amount of sauteed veggies.  The taste is slightly fiery and incredible.   The chili oil soaks into the fish, yielding the flavor, but keeping the crispiness.  A little known dish, off the beaten path, at a restaurant with a very extensive menu. Try it !

The Greatest Soft Pretzels EVER are at K & R Pretzel Bakery on Flesher St.

29) THE PLAYBOY ROLL at KABUKI:  Nothing says fun like a couple of grown adults trying to blow out a flaming sushi roll.  The roll contains Shrimp Tempura, Spicy tuna, and asparagus topped with cooked shrimp and a sweet glaze sauce.  It is then “barbecued” at your table, by being served on fire, inside an aluminum pouch.  The spectacle is one thing, but the best thing is whats inside the fiery roll of foil.  The answer is a scrumptious taste of Japan, right here in Dayton.

30) THE PRETZELS from K&R PRETZEL BAKERY:  These should be a Dayton Icon, but not many people know of this secret place at 1700 Flesher Ave.  Like a scene from Willy Wonka, the pretzel machine is fed a hand twisted raw dough pretzel, the dough is mechanically dipped in water, then hand salted before it is baked on a conveyor belt.  The machine is as long as a limousine, and it is fun watching the finished product come out at the end.  It is even more fun to eat the results:  A soft pretzel, that is the best we’ve tasted.

These are our 30 DAYTON MUST EATS, You gotta try before you die.  Little known secrets, and favorite hidden gems.   DID WE LEAVE OUT ONE OF YOUR FAVES?  WHICH ONE?  Is there one on the list you disagree with?  Are some of these items, your favorite too?  Please comment below!

Please check out our gallery below and “like us on FACEBOOK HERE !  We have some big things coming up this fall !  Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu thank you !

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

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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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Eat me, I’m Celtic !

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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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Foremost Seafood: The Freshest Fish in Dayton

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Owner Tom Patterson with a fresh fish order

Hey seafood lovers, Food Adventures with The Big Ragu & Crew is about to change your world.  There is a little known secret that has been in the Miami Valley for 30 years.  It is called Foremost Seafood, and it’s located at Woodman Center Drive in Kettering.   It is a seafood distributor, that has a retail store open to the public.  What’s the big deal?   Foremost gets daily shipments (not Sundays) of fresh caught seafood from Boston, Virgina, Florida and Alaskan suppliers.  This allows Daytonians access to an incredible variety of nautical fare and ensures the freshest seafood.  This is the type of access that is usually only found in mega cities.

It started with owner Tom Patterson, who in 1983 was typically listening to music like David Bowie in the basement of his parents home.  From that house he sold his first shipment,  fifty pounds of shrimp to the meat manager at Dorothy Lane Market, Helga.  He still provides seafood to Dorothy Lane Market to this day.  Over the years he has quietly built and empire and runs the buying for the business.  This is important because he is an expert.  Tom has a degree in marine biology from South Florida University.  He worked on shrimp farms in Ecuador in the late 1970’s.  During this time he also was setting trends in Galveston, TX by helping develop new shrimp farming technology.  His knowledge is Dayton’s gain, as this hometown boy is now a successful businessman, bringing quality eats to the Foremost faithful.  And they are faithful, most of his business is from customers that have been visiting the retail store for over a decade.  Today, deliveries from Boston and Virginia arrive by truck the next day, while seafood from Alaska and Florida are flown in specially to Dayton airport.

***HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Live Softshell Crabs are available in season, at Foremost Seafood

— Foremost Seafood is NOT a restaurant, it is a storefront to buy fresh seafood.  Think of it as a mini seafood market.

— Foremost provides seafood for most of the upscale, locally owned restaurants in Dayton.

— The fish they sell were caught on ‘day boats’ (only 1 or 2 days at sea).  Translation: these are the freshest fish available and were not sitting in a ship’s cooler for two weeks.  Only the highest quality is the rule at Foremost Seafood.

— The fresh fish is not displayed, it is kept whole and sliced only at the time of the order.  The reasoning is to keep air and light from deteriorating the meat of the fish. “Be loyal to the fish” is their mantra.  You order from a price list of fresh fish, they trim the fish and bring your order out for the ‘ok’ before they wrap it.

— Locally owed since 1983 by Tom Patterson and his wife Pam.  Another true mom and pop establishment.

Fresh Carolina Shrimp – Never frozen

— Experts handle the fish once it arrives in Dayton.  People like Chef Tony Coletta who worked at Garstkas and Chef Nate Young currently at the Oakwood Club

— Foremost offers over 300 varieties of fresh and frozen seafood specialties.

— Hours are a little tricky: Tuesdays – Fridays 9am -6pm, Saturday and Monday 9am-noon, Closed Sundays

 

***MUST EATS:

Fresh Carolina Shrimp:  Caught just a couple of days ago, these huge shrimp run about $14.99/lb and have never been frozen, which in Ohio is practically unheard of.   Taste the freshness without having to travel to North or South Carolina.  These shrimp are usually the 21-25 count per pound variety, and are absolutely incredible.

Scottish Salmon: Foremost usually offers 4 types of fresh Salmon, but The Big Ragu & Crew recommend the Scottish Salmon for some killer grilling this summer !!

Chef Tony Coletta & the Big Ragu holding a fresh, Wahoo fish that was recently caught in Hawaii

Cherrystone Clams:  Yes, they are alive.  You can shuck them and eat ’em raw, but our favorite is to steam them then dip them in butter.  Either way, be prepared for a fresh taste of the ocean!

Sushi Grade Tuna:  This tuna is super-high quality and can be sliced and eaten raw.  If sushi isn’t your style, consider coating the tuna with red pepper, sesame seeds or any spicy rub.  Then pan-sear it on all sides (even the edges).  We tried it both raw and cooked and loved it all.   Check out our photo album below where we cooked lots of Foremost items and holla’ at your foodie boys.

 

Fresh Tilapia:  You can still see the knife marks on the filets where it was carved.  Talk about fresh!  This mild fish is a favorite, even for the pickiest eaters.  Try it baked for 20 minutes at 350degrees.  Use your own spices, Don’t ask us, we aren’t chef’s we are just two guys that love to eat !  Check out their table of free recipe cards.

Soft-Shell Crabs: This delicacy is for serious eaters!  They are alive.  You can’t get any fresher than that.  The most popular way to cook these are breaded and pan seared.  They are also used in local sushi houses stuffed into ‘spider rolls.’  Softshell crabs are consumed entirely.  That’s right, eat the whole thing, shell and all.  Only for true Food Adventurers, and The Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax  say they are delicious ! 

Crab Dip:  This slightly spicy dip is so addicting, you will have to lock the refrigerator.  Get some wheat thins or melba toasts and go to town on this stuff.  Made from a mixture of pseudo-crab sticks and cream cheese, it is perfect party snacking.  Food Adventures will not be held responsible for brawls over the last scoop.

What are you lookin at? Fresh Red Snapper

A couple of side notes:  With the demand for fresh seafood, (over half of it coming from Boston),  once in a while they run out of items.  It is the nature of fresh offerings.   But there are so many other choices like Blue crab from Virgina, Snow Crab legs, live oysters, the list goes on an on.  Fresh fish that we have been buying for years include Red Snapper, Grouper, Wahoo, Bronzini and Halibut.  Also, special orders such as live lobsters need to be pre-ordered.   They even offer do it yourself fish frys where pricing is based on pounds of fish purchased.

For years, The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax have been hitting up this place for our party food needs, cookouts, or just a craving for some fish at home.  It is truly one of our favorites.  Foremost Seafood’s philosophy is simple, freshness and being loyal to the integrity of fish in regards to handling.  Owner Tom buys the best and sells the best.

Now you know about yet another Dayton gem.   Our city is lucky to have access to this fresh food.  Don’t forget to visit the free recipe table. Whether you want to eat healthy, or just love fish, get yourself into Foremost Seafood and see for yourself.  There is nothing fishy here.

Check out our stunning photo album below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE.  Come on, don’t be shellfish….

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