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Food Adventure

Bar Granada reopens downtown with eclectic cultural events!

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An inside view of the newly remodeled Bar Granada located in downtown Dayton at the corner of Main & Monument Streets.

Bar Granda, the new bar and restaurant at the corner of Main & Monument downtown, has rebranded itself and reopened with an exotic flair! The decor and menu have been refreshed with a warm and cozy Mediterranean vibe, and food coming from the Latin Arepas Truck (indoors). They are equally as proud of their craft tequila menu, as their delicious mocktails for those choosing to stay sober.

The other big change to the venue is the addition of curated pan-cultural events. This Friday, they start their “Last Friday” series with The Dayton Salsa Project, who performs live Latin music (salsa/merengue/bachata/bolero) for your listening and dancing pleasure. Not sure how to dance Latin style? Watch and learn, and start with the merengue! You’ll be swaying your hips in no time. 9pm-12am. $10 cover. 21+

Later this summer, they are hosting a very special evening on Wednesday August 28th with The Flamenco Company of Columbus. Enjoy food, music and dance in a format rarely seen in Dayton – flamenco! Tickets include tapas & wine before the performance and dessert and Cava before final performance. What a wonderful cultural experience that will be! 7-10pm. $48 via Eventbrite. 21+

This flair of culture on the northern end of downtown is just the spark that area needs! Be sure to show your support of this new business next time you are planning a happy hour meet up, a date night or solo adventure downtown!

 

The Flamenco Company of Columbus will perform at Bar Granada on August 28, 2019.

More about Bar Granada

Bar Granada is located at 5 W Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402

Please note that parking lot adjacent to building is just $1 upon exit after 8pm.

Hours: Wednesday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Thursday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM / Friday 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM / Saturday 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM

Find out more: https://www.bardayton.com/

Food Adventures Host a “Buck Wild Brunch at The Donk”

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Beef on Weck

For the first time ever, we will be hosting a Food Adventure BRUNCH !

Saturday May 18th at 11am, we are heading to the BUCKIN DONKEY Restaurant for a one time only,“Buck Wild Brunch.”  This will be the wildest, wackiest Food Adventure menu ever.  There will be 4 courses and an option for a Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar.  The menu is crazy and fun, and this promises to be epic.

We will have door prizes and learn about the Buckin’ Donkey and the philosophy behind this one of a kind eatery.

If you have not been to The Buckin’ Donkey, then you are in for a treat and this is a perfect  chance to sample the most popular items on the menu.  If you have been to “The Donk,” then you know what we mean by wild and wacky menu items.  It is a delicious bachelor inspired menu on steroids.  Good food, with a Pittsburgh influence, from a local owner with decades of various restaurant experiences.

Frosted Flake French toast

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE “BUCK WILD BRUNCH at THE DONK !“

— WHEN: SATURDAY MAY 18th 11am -1pm

— WHERE: THE BUCKIN DONKEY in MORAINE at 2866 S Dixie Dr.

— COST IS PER $25 PERSON with an option for a MIMOSA and BLOODY MARY BAR for $5 to be paid the day of the event. Gratuity is not included.  Tickets are pre pay only and only available for purchase online at the link below.

*****BUY YOUR TICKETS BY CLICKING HERE *****

Jambalaya

Here is what is included ….

BRUNCH MENU:

COURSE 1:
FROSTED FLAKE FRENCH TOAST and BISCUITS and GRAVY:
A tasting of their famous, unique french toast that is made using Frosted Flakes cereal.  Also a sample of their biscuits and gravy.  A homemade recipe that has been curing hangovers for years.

 

COURSE 2:
Your choice of:
JAMBALAYA, GUMBO or CHILI:
The Jambalaya is absolutely amazing, and Big Ragu’s favorite.  The Gumbo is exceptional as well with flavorful sausage.  The chili is available almost daily and a staple at the Buckin’ Donkey.

Booth and Table seating

COURSE 3:
Your choice of:
a) BEEF ON WECK SANDWICH (with Au Jus for dipping)
The Most Popular item on the menu, it is a favorite or Beef lovers everywhere.  This is their take on the Italian Beef sandwiches famous in Pennsylvania, and New York.


b) BREAKFAST BURGER: a huge layered breakfast sandwich on a biscuit consisting of half pork and half beef patties, hashbrowns and eggs.  This is a bachelor creation on steroids or the Frankenstein monster of Breakfast sandwiches !

Breakfast Burger minus Egg

 

c) THE PORKY PIG DONUT BURGER:
A patty with ground beef and pork mixed is grilled and topped with 3 strips of bacon and american cheese. It served with 2 slices of glazed doughnut as the bun.

d) THE BLT and O BURGER:
Their burger grilled and topped with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and oh yeah a fried egg. Served on grilled texas toast

Gumbo

e) THE TRIPLE BYPASS BURGER:
A beef patty made with ground beef and bacon patty topped with bacon strips, a fried egg and cheese.

 

COURSE 4:
Your choice of:

a) HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER PIE:
Unbelievable, nuff said…

 

b) HOMEMADE BLACKBERRY CREAM PIE:
Wonderful flavor

Back Entrance

c) HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER AND BANANA PIE:
The name says it all…

**** CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS TO THE BRUNCH ****

All tickets are pre pay only, are only available online at the link above.

OPTIONAL BRUNCH ITEM:
MIMOSA or BLOODY MARY BAR will be available for purchase that morning for $5

HERE’s THE SKINNY on the BUCKIN’ DONKEY:

Blackberry Cream Pie

— Owned by Sean McKown, it is located in the old Murray’s Place Restaurant building at 2866 S Dixie Dr. in Moraine.

— Sean’s family background is part Italian, so his menu is influenced by that. It is also influence by his hometown of Pittsburgh.  That’s why you see many Polish and Italian dishes on the menu.

— Sean moved to Dayton at 11 years old and has worked running the kitchens at many successful restaurants.  The Buckin Donkey is the result of his dream to someday own his own place.

Chili

— Some of the unique menu items are the results of experiments Sean had feeding his friends who were hanging around his home after a night out.  The results are some magical creations.

— Thursday night is Trivia night at the Buckin Donkey.  The place is sports friendly, featuring a lot of Steelers memorabilia, but all NFL and sports fans are welcome.

— The Buckin Donkey is also known for their generosity in helping local charities.

Peanut Butter Pie

We are super excited to partner for this brunch event.  Don’t miss this extravaganza – Seating is limited and open to all ages. Other alcohol will be available for purchase for those over 21, as they have a full bar.

Food Adventures has a feature column here each and every week.  Stop back and check out more Dayton foodie news.  Follow us on Twitter HERE and follow us on Instagram HERE.

 

 

SEE YOU AT THE BUCKIN DONKEY MAY 18th !!!

 

Donut Burger minus bacon, after we added condiments

Booths and tables

Jambalaya

Homemade chili

Banana Cream Pie

Peanut Butter PIe

Porky Pig Doughnut Burger

Gumbo

Beef on Weck

Breakfast burger minus egg

Porky Pig Donut Burger

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jimmys Italian Kitchen to Host Food Adventure April 23rd

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Baked Pasta Trio

For years, the people have demanded it.  We have finally put it together.

The Food Adventures Crew has set a date for the Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen Dinner Event.

The sampling of the menu will include 4 courses, and non alcoholic beverages.  Alcohol will be for available for purchase with dinner.

We are expecting a good crowd, with a sampling of their Italian menu, with Greek twist at the end.

Salad with house dressing

***CLICK HERE FOR TICKET INFO and to BUY TICKETS***

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHEN: Tues. April 23rd, 2019 at 7pm

WHERE: JIMMY’S ITALIAN KITCHEN, 3002 Woodman Dr. in Kettering

WHAT :  FOUR COURSE MEAL – Sampling of their menu
COURSE 1:  Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup
COURSE 2: Salad with House Italian Dressing or your dressing choice
COURSE 3: PASTA TRIO with HOUSE MARINARA SAUCE:
-Meat Lasagna
-Cheese Stuffed Shell
-Cheese Ravioli
COURSE 4: HOUSE MADE BAKLAVA – a Special Greek Treat !
Dinner will also be served with those amazing Garlic Rolls !

Homemade Baklava for Dessert

COST :$30 Per Person –  pre-pay only (does not include gratuity).

We will accommodate vegetarians on the pasta trio plate.

*****CLICK HERE GET YOUR TICKETS for this ONE NIGHT ONLY EVENT !!*****
Includes water, tea, wine, coffee, soft drinks.
Beer, wine or cocktails will be available for purchase
Does not include gratuity

The staff at Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen is looking for  sellout and so are we.  They are excited to present this taste of Italy. so don’t miss out !

Thank you to Dayton Dining  for helping sponsor this special dinner.

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  We are too !  Join us on Facebook and like our page by clicking HERE

Out Front

Romance in an old Taco Bell

Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup

Baklava made in house

Pasta and Rolls

The addicting Garlic Rolls

We could live on these

Baked Pasta

Italian Side Salad

 

 

Nelly’s Introducing Sauces at March Food Adventure + Free Ticket Giveaway

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Nellys to Introduce new sauces with its famous chicken

The Bolivian restaurant Nelly’s Chicken on S. Main Street or State Route 48 will hosting its first ever Food Adventure Dinner.

TUESDAY MARCH 12 will be a very special night with one night only, exotic, 5 course meal.  The kitchen and owners will be introducing some Bolivian BBQ sauces to be enjoyed with their famous chicken.  If you have not had their juicy, mouth-watering chicken with the one of a kind, cooked over charcoal taste, you are missing a treat with this signature dish.  They will also feature a Bolivian sausage and beef based entrée.  The final course will be dessert as we enjoy door prizes and trivia with the crowd.  This is a one night only event and the first time the sauces will be available.  We are excited to try these new items !!!

**TICKETS ONLY AVAILABLE ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE**

FREE TICKET GIVEAWAY !
Comment with why you want a free ticket below, and we will draw one random winner Friday 22nd at 6pm.

What a special chance to get this deal for dinner and enjoy a Food Adventure where you can “Fade into Bolivia”

Rotisserie Chicken cooked over charcoal

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON THE FOOD ADVENTURE DINNER at NELLY’S CHICKEN:

WHEN:  MARCH 12, 6:30pm – ONE NIGHT ONLY

WHERE : 79 S Main St, Centerville, OH 45458

WHAT:  5 COURSE “TOUR OF BOLIVIA” DINNER EVENT

COURSE 1:
CHORIPAN BITES: Smoked sausage topped with fresh chimichurri salsa, served on top of a toasted bread.

COURSE 2:

Nelly’s Beet Salad


NELLY’S TOSSED SALAD: green with organic spring mix, cranberries, topped with a mozzarella-provolone cheese blend and sweet pickled beets.

COURSE 3:
PIQUE MACHO: a heaping plate of bite-sized pieces of beef, sausage, green pepper, onion, steak potatoes and hard-boiled egg.

COURSE 4:
A PIECE OF OUR FAMOUS ROTISSERIE CHICKEN, COOKED OVER CHARCOAL: Served with a sauce to mix and enhance the flavors of this typical Bolivian dish.  Bolivian BBQ Sauce and White Sauce available for tasting.

2007-12-31 Flan casero de huevo – Cena nochevieja – Pozuelo de Alarcón – Madrid – España

COURSE 5:
HOMEMADE FLAN: freshly baked egg custard with caramel sauce. A South American staple.

COST: $32 per person, Includes water and 5 courses (does not include tip).  Drinks like soda and alcohol may be bought separately as they have a full bar, and craft beers. PRE PAY ONLY

****TICKETS: Are only available online by CLICKING HERE for info**** Sales end March 10th at midnight

Alcohol and Tip not included

5 delicious courses,………. 1 night only……. many, one-of a kind, unique tastes. We are looking forward to trying the chef’s new sauces that pair with the chicken.

Food Adventures will provide some trivia and door prizes. Nelly’s Chicken will be giving away a gift card to a random attendee.  Join us March 12th, meet the owners of Nelly’s, their story, and philosophy about the restaurant.   Hear about their goals for the future.

Are you ready for a Food Adventure to Bolivia ??

For more info on Food Adventures, join the nearly 8,000 Dayton Foodies following them on Facebook by CLICKING HERE

** DONT FORGET TO COMMENT BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN ONE FREE TICKET TO THIS EVENT ! ** (Drawing is at random, Feb 22nd at 5pm).

Inside Nellys Chicken

Pieces of Rotisserie Chicken cooked over Charcoal

Nellys

Bolivian Style Chicken – new sauces coming !!

 

Juicy Chicken

salad

inside Nellys

chicken

 

 

El Toro’s Taco Tuesday Taking Dayton by Storm

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We splashed some free salsa on these Tacos !

It was 8:20pm on Tuesday night at the El Toro Restaurant across from the Greene with the Food Adventure Crew.  People were lined up in the lobby and jammed in the bar area waiting for a seat.  The hostess said it would be a 20-30 minutes wait.  This is the scene all day at Taco Tuesday, every Tuesday at El Toro Restaurants across the Dayton area.  The feature is $1 Crunchy and Soft Tacos all day.  And it has taken the Dayton area by storm.

 

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON EL TORO’S TACO TUESDAY:

— TACOS are 1 DOLLAR EACH

— Choose CRISPY OR SOFT TACOS

— Choose one of 3 meats: GROUND BEEF, SHREDDED CHICKEN, OR PORK

— Each Taco comes with shredded CHEESE and shredded LETTUCE.  One of our “fat kid tricks,” is pour the free tableside  salsa on your taco too, and of course a drop of the hot sauce in a bottle that sits at each table.

— Taco Tuesday Special is good all day from 11:00am – 10:30pm

Soft Tacos are $1 on Taco Tuesday at El Toro

 

The tacos are delicious and you can fill up for about 4 or 5 bucks and walk out stuffed.  The special price is about a third of what tacos are normally.  Throw in the free chips and salsa and you have a helluva deal and a cheap Food Adventure.    No wonder  El Toro has seen packed houses on Tuesdays.

 

WHERE TO GET $1 TACOS at EL TORO ON “TACO TUESDAYS”:

EL TORO BEAVERCREEK:  1375 North Fairfield Road, Beavercreek, OH 45432

EL TORO BELLBROOK:  4421 State Route 725, Bellbrook, OH 45305

EL TORO CENTERVILLE:  2335 Centerville-Miamisburg Rd., Centerville, OH 45459

EL TORO DAYTON:  2915 Harshman Road, Dayton, OH 45424

EL TORO ENGLEWOOD:  9190 N. Main Street, Englewood, OH 45415

Shredded Chicken and a Beef Crunchy Taco

EL TORO HUBER HEIGHTS:   8321 Old Troy Pike, Huber Heights, OH 45424

EL TORO KETTERING:  448 Indian Ripple Road, Kettering, OH 45440

EL TORO MILLER LANE:  6770 Miller Lane, Dayton, OH 45414

EL TORO SPRINGBORO:  710 Gardner Rd., Springboro, OH, 45066

EL TORO SPRINGFIELD 1:  2100 S. Limestone Street, Springfield, OH 45505

EL TORO SPRINGFIELD 2 : 2017 N. Bechtle Avenue, Springfield, OH 45503

EL TORO VANDALIA:  794 Northwoods Blvd., Vandalia, OH 45377

 

Not a taco fan or busy on Tuesdays?  May we suggest some of our patented MUST EATS ..

MUST EATS at EL TORO RESTAURANT: 

— GUACAMOLE DIP:
Perfect mix of avocado, onion, tomato and spices. We don’t know how they do it … they just do it.

— DINNER COMBO 18:

Guacamole Dip – the best !

A Chile Relleno, an Enchilada and a Chalupa.  The best of the best other

menu items.

— CHICKEN or STEAK FAJITAS:
Or get them “mixed” and they will include both chicken and steak. The sizzling fresh veggies and that charred taste in a tortilla is second to none. Ask for Sour Cream for sure,  hese.

— SEAFOOD CHIMICHANGAS:
The best ones in town by far.  A nice drizzle of white cheese sauce on top makes it a Tex-Mex Classic.

— Fried Ice Cream
End your night on a high note. A carmelized, honey ice cream creation with drizzled chocolate.

 

OTHER DAILY SPECIALS at EL TORO:

Monday:
12 oz Margaritas – $3.99

Tuesday:
12 oz Margaritas – $3.99

Chicken Fajitas

Wednesday:
24 Oz. Domestic Draft Beers $1.95

Thursday:
Bottled Mexican & Domestic Beers $1.95

Saturday:
Chicken Fajitas $9.99
Kids Meals $3.99

Sunday:
$1.99 Domestic Draft Beers (Budweiser, Bud Light, & Miller Lite)

 

That does it boss, get to El Toro with some hot sauce.  Our tip on Taco Tuesday- hit an early lunch at 11:30am and beat the crowds.

Make sure you get both some crispy and soft tacos.  It will make your Tuesday !

Visit us next week and every week for another Food Adventure article exclusively on Dayton Most Metro !!

Follow Food Adventures on Facebook HERE  

Feel free to browse more potos below and leave a comment…

Chile Relleno

Seafood Chimichanga

Taco, Rice , Enchiladas

Our buddy the King – cant pass up Fried Ice Cream !

Simple Soft Taco

Fish Fajitas

Seafood Chimichangas

Some of the best salsa ever…

Refried Beans and Rice

We doctored these up

Now we added Guac and sour cream

Soft Tacos

Crunchy Tacos with Salsa

Try the crunchy Shredded Chicken and a Beef Taco

The chemistry lab we always wanted

Chips and Salsa

One of the many El Toros

 

“Beers & Steers” at Kennedy Vineyard

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Located at: 3911 OH-722, New Madison, OH 45346

Do you love beer?  How about a good burger?  Are you a wine lover?  Like live music?  We have it all here for you.

Kennedy Vineyard and Big Rack Brewery in New Madison, Ohio are excited for an announcement.

They are teaming up with Food Adventures, DaytonDining and DaytonMostMetro.com to hold a special one night event called “BEERS and STEERS.”  It is a day an evening party filled with good food, craft beer, local wine and live music.

“Beers and Steers” will take place SATURDAY JUNE 30th.  The winery opens at 1pm, live music starts at 2pm, and dinner is served at 4pm.  Live music will continue into the evening and the vineyard will close at 10pm .

“Beers and Steers” will have Live Music all day

Tickets are $20 per person and includes admission, dinner, live music, and a drink ticket for wine or beer.  Additional drinks may be bought as a cash bar.  TICKETS MAY ONLY BE BOUGHT ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE.

Come relax and enjoy and incredible day at the vineyard. rain or shine (the party can be moved to the barn in case of bad weather).

Vineyard owners John and Louisa Kennedy will be serving their famous, thick local beef burgers and sides.  Dessert is also part of the deal.  There are patio seats, but feel free to bring your own lawn chairs if you like.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on KENNEDY VINEYARD:

— Known for the past few years as a winery with a cult following, the vineyard recently expanded.  In summer 2017, the family opened up Darke County’s first brewery “Big Rack Brewery” on the same grounds as the vineyard.

John Kennedy serving up homemade food

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

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

Darke County’s first brewery

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

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

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

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON “BEERS and STEERS”:

—WHEN:  SATURDAY JUNE 30th,
Winery opens 1pm – Beer and Wine Available
Live Music 2pm – 9pm
Dinner served 4pm
Winery Closes 10pm

Wine and Beer Bash on the grounds with live music

—WHERE: KENNEDY VINEYARD and BIG RACK BREWERY
3911 OH-722, New Madison, Ohio 45346

—WHAT:  “Beers and Steers” A cookout with live music, food and drink! You get a drink ticket for a beer or glass of wine, a dinner of a thick, local beef burger with sides and dessert. There will also be live music 2pm – 9pm. A Relaxing day at the vineyard – BRING A LAWNCHAIR if you want as patio seating is limited.  Cash bar for additional drinks open from 1pm – 10pm

—COST: $20 per person – TICKETS CAN ONLY BE BOUGHT ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE

 

See you for this beer, wine and food bash, with local eats and live music.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t Fear The Reaper at Pisanello’s

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We got a Reaper Pizza and divided it in 4 flavors !

In the Dayton suburb of Franklin, one pizza reigns supreme, Pisanello’s Pizza .  This restaurant has quietly been spinning out pies for the past 30 years.  Inside the community of Franklin, they have gained a loyal, cult following.  Pisanello’s makes hundreds of pizzas each weekday and thousands of pizzas on the weekends.   Outside of Franklin, this place is a well-kept secret.  But now, The Food Adventure Crew is letting the masses know about this.

One of their biggest attractions, literally, is the Reaper Pizza  – a 34 inch monster with your choice of toppings.  They even have an eating challenge called the “Reaper Challenge” where 2 people must eat the pizza in 30 minutes to succeed.  But we say, order the Reaper pizza with a group and let the Food Adventure begin!

Now to learn a little bit about the Pisanello’s secret….

 

Welcome to Pisanello’s in Franklin

HERE’S THE SKINNY on PISANELLO’S PIZZA:

—Pisanello’s Pizza started in Alliance Ohio in the early 1960’s.  It branched out to Kent, Ohio and eventually Bowling Green, Ohio, in October 1964.   Jerry Liss, of Kent, Ohio, started the Bowling Green business  after working for Ron Pisanello.   Jerry chose Bowling Green, because of the growing student population of Bowling Green State University.  With his wife Sylvia, they ran the store for 50 years, to great success. It is still a success today.

—With over 15 franchises in Ohio and Michigan, the chain is strong.

— The Franklin Pisanellos is celebrating their 35th year in business.  Owner Tom Combs and Marketing director Bruce Horstman run a well oiled machine.  Busy weekends are no problem, as the staff is always hustling with great service.

— Staying with a family theme and atmosphere, no alcohol is sold or allowed on site.

Spicy Asian Wings – the best on the menu

— The pizza dough is made from scratch every day and the sauce is made in-house, with the famous San Marzano brand tomatoes from Italy.

— Sharing the restaurant with sister company TLC Catering, Pisanello’s hosts parties in any of the 3 floors of their building and the party rooms are incredible.

 

MUST EATS at PISANELLO’S PIZZA:

—THE REAPER PIZZA:
Behold the Masterpiece. This behemoth, 34 inch pizza is sliced into squares, although you can ask for pie slices. The one topping Reaper starts at $34.95 and the deluxe gets up to $54 bucks. You can get up to 4 different sections with different toppings.

—SPICY ASIAN WINGS:
An amazing combo of tang and heat, these are the best wings we have had at a pizza joint in the Dayton area. Although they are baked, they maintain a crisp crunch and stay true to the Buffalo Wing style.

—LOADED TATER TOTS:
Who doesn’t love tater tots? Jackie and Ragu devoured these on the spot during our visits. Get them loaded with cheese and bacon. Sour cream? YES ! or…. dip them in ranch or ketchup !

—ANY PIZZA:

Loaded Tater Tots

We were very impressed with the pizza on our visits. They have a nice selection of toppings and we have loved our pies from cheese, to loaded deluxe. The Hand tossed is our favorite style, aka the traditional style. Great Crust, great sauce, the foundations of what makes great pizza, and they have excelled at both.

—MILD WINGS:
The slight tang to the Buffalo Wing. Mild, yet a bit of flavor, this is the perfect wing to compliment pizza. They are great, and you could eat ton of them.

—CHEESEY BREAD:
A must eat appetizer at Pisanellos.The cheese topped crust is great for dipping and savoring. A solid choice to open the meal.

—KIDS MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA OPTION:
The most fun a kid can have is making their own pizza, right? This is an ingenious meal where they serve the kids raw ingredients, of crust, cheese, and sauce, and the child makes their own pizza. You then give the pizza uncooked to the server who pops it in the oven and in a few minutes, the kiddos are eating their own creations.

Don’t forget the pizza by the slice deal “2 huge slices and a drink for $5.95.”  

Also, we cannot stress enough the amazing beauty of this building.  The upstairs floor are refurbished party rooms.  They are perfect for your next meeting or get together.

So many great tastes, so little time.  Although this place has been here 35 years, so you have all the time in the world….

The bottom line is that this is a great pizza pub, with delicious pies.  Go there with some friends and try the REAPER… or go with your immediate family and get a pizza of your choice.  We are sure you will find it a tasty stop with friendly service.  It isn’t just Franklin’s little secret anymore ….

Love food?  Then check Food Adventures out on Facebook HERE.  We write a feature article every week right here on Dayton Most Metro.  See you next week !

Top that

Main Dining Area

more tots and a sandwich

perfect for meetings and parties

by the slice

More upstairs rooms

Dough fixer

Party time

Busy Kitchen

Pizza by the SLICE

Philly Cheesesteak

Cheese and onion

Mild wing

Taking on the REAPER !

Fun times – Franklin Ohio

Murals

Cheseey Bread

The 34 inch REAPER PIZZA !

Pizza with Green Peppers

Make your own pizza

Logo

Spicy Asian wings

Kids make your own pizza

Box it

 

 

Rocky’s Pizza Ring to Host Farewell Pizza Party

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Pepperoni Pizza at Rocky’s

Yo Adrian… time to say goodbye … one last round.. down but not out …

As many of you local foodies know, an iconic area pizza joint, in existence for over 40 years is closing its doors forever this summer.

40 lucky fans will close down 40 years at Rocky’s Pizza Ring with one last pizza party and trivia bash.

Although the restaurant closes June 30th forever, the owners are teaming up with Most Metro’s own Food Adventure Crew for an “Underground Food Adventure” on Saturday night May 19th.  The party will feature all you want pizza, trivia and door prizes.  Tickets will be $12 each,  and will include pizza, soft drinks and a surprise.

 

Tickets will be sold online at DaytonMostMetro.com and DaytonFoodies.com.

CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS. 

 

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON THE ROCKY’S FAREWELL PIZZA PARTY and MOVIE NIGHT:

—WHEN: SATURDAY MAY 19th
The pizza party starts at 9pm 

—WHERE:  Rocky’s Pizza Ring, 3273 Seajay Dr, Beavercreek, OH 45430

—WHAT:  All you want pepperoni and cheese pizza and soft drinks.

—COST: $12 per person, GET YOUR TICKETS ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE !

— Only 40 tickets will be sold, once they are gone, they are gone.

— Beer will be sold separately at a cash bar.

HURRY and get your tickets now, as we are limiting this once in a lifetime Food Adventure to 40 seats.  Come say farewell to Rocky’s Pizza Ring one last time.  Join us for a night of nostalgia, good food, and a surprise.  We will also have some trivia and door prizes.

Seating will be in the fun atmosphere of a boxing ring, with memorabilia adorning the walls.

WE PITY THE FOOL WHO MISSES THIS EVENT !!!

For more food fun and events, follow Food Adventures on Facebook HERE

 

Green Tomato Fest Looking for Vendors & Cornhole Teams

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Winks treats will be there

Attention Food Trucks and Craft Vendors….

Miamisburg’s Rock n Green Tomato Festival is looking for you.  Same goes for you bag tossing, cornhole lovers.  There is money to be made for all involved !

The Festival takes place two days this year: JUNE 8th 5pm – 11pm and JUNE 9th  from Noon – 11pm

All the forms you need can be downloaded, filled out and sent in from www.RockNGreenTomato.com

FOOD TRUCKS and FOOD VENDORS WANTED:
Vendor Cost for one day : $125
Vendor Cost for two days : $150
So far the Food Vendors include Winks Treats, Kona Ice, The Hamburger Wagon, Rons Pizza’s Fried Green Tomato and Sliders Booth, The Ice Cream Trolley, and more !

 

Vendor Setups

CRAFT VENDORS / COMPANY VENDORS WANTED:
10 foot x 10 foot Booth Cost for one day : $50
10 foot x 10 foot Booth Cost for two days : $75
(No food or drink sales at Craft Booths)
So far Craft Booths include MidUSACredit Union, ABC FOX 45, Rock n Green T-shirt Booth, Avon, LeafFilter North LLC, and Color Street

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
11:30am check in on SATURDAY JUNE 8th
Cost: $20 per 2 person team in advance, $30 if you pay the day of the festival
Prize Money: Winning Team gets $250

 

Checks and forms should be mailed in to
ROCK N GREEN TOMATO FEST
PO BOX 322
MIAMISBURG, OH 45343

Questions?

That’s not all – the Festival features Rock n Roll Bands Friday and Saturday night with feature acts closing down the festival respective nights. Friday the Rockabilly, lightning fast piano talents of Blair Carman. His style is much like Jerry Lee Lewis. Saturday concludes with feature act Ryan Roth and the Comeback Special. They are a 14 piece Elvis tribute band, Vegas Style. You do not want to miss these free rock shows.

A Hula Hoop Contest, a Hamburger eating contest and a Pie Baking Contest fill in the festivities on Saturday. The festival sponsor is MiduSA Credit Union and the emceee is Jim Bucher.

This will be the 8th Annual Rock N Green Tomato Fest.

The festival takes place in the newly rennovated River View Park.  We suggest you bring a folding chair if you are going to stay and listen to the band.

Ron’s Pizza will have the beer garden patio open both days and will be serving green beer and food.

There is even a Donut run 5K  Saturday Morning June 9th.

For all the information on all of the events, please visit www.RocknGreenTomato.com

Thank you for reading our Food Adventure feature.  Look for our articles exclusively,  every week on Dayton Most Metro.  Follow us on Facebook HERE

Fest in full force

Fried Green Tomatoes !

Green tomato Pizza

Ron’s Patio

Former Food Trucks

Fest in full force

CRAFTS ! FOODS !

Burger Eating contest

Legendary Burger Wagon

Bands All Day

The Ice Cream Trolley will be there

Lemonade

Food lineup

Hamburger Wagon burgers

win $250

KONA Ice

Green tomato slider

Scuavines MEatballs

KONA ICE

 

 

 

Archer’s Kettering Wine Dinner Pairings + Ticket Giveway

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Beef Tenderloin and “Borne of Fire” Cabarnet

April 19th promises to be one of the tastiest days in Dayton.

***Now you can win a free ticket to attend****
Just comment on the article below and a winner will be chosen at random.

Today the chefs at Archer’s in Kettering have confirmed a final menu for the CORKS and FORKS Dinner event.

This is a 4 course Food Adventure complete with wine pairings

Here is the lineup just announced !!!!

FIRST COURSE:
WINE FLIGHT 1:
J. PINOT GRIS
FOOD COURSE 1:
BANGING SHRIMP and SPINACH DIP
(Made with 3 cheeses)

SECOND COURSE:
WINE FLIGHT 2:
ROSEHAVEN ROSE
FOOD COURSE 2:
GRILLED ROMAINE HEART CAESAR SALAD
(Served with shaved Parmesan and grape tomatoes. We may showcase Archer’s “Cardinal” dressing.)

THIRD COURSE:
WINE FLIGHT 3: BORNE OF FIRE CABERNET
FOOD COURSE 3:
BEEF TENDERLOIN:
(Served with a wild mushroom red wine sauce, on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Possible Salmon option for those who do not like steak)

FOURTH COURSE:
WINE FLIGHT 4: RISATA MOSCATO D’ASTI
FOOD COURSE 4:
APPLE CRUNCH CAKE
(Apple Pie topped with brown sugar, yellow cake, and mixed nuts.
Key Lime pie option for those with nut allergy)

Apple Spice Cake

GET TICKETS NOW – Seated is limited to the first 40 tickets sold.

HERE IS THE SKINNY ON THE EVENT:

—“CORKS and FORKS”
4 COURSES, 4 WINE PAIRINGS Just $40
(Menu subject to change)


—THURSDAY APRIL 19th,  6:30pm


—ARCHERS KETTERING, 2030 E. Dorothy Ln, Kettering

 

TICKETS MAY BE PURCHASED ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE…

Again, seating is limited and once seats are gone, they are GONE !

****WIN A FREE TICKET BY COMMENTING BELOW !****

WINNER CHOSEN MONDAY AT RANDOM.

Don’t forget to follow Food Adventures here each and every week. Original articles, original photos and more.

Follow Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE

 

 

Corks & Forks Food Adventure At Archers

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Archer’s-Kettering is hosting a Food Adventure Wine Dinner on April 19th and we are calling it “CORKS and FORKS.”

Today the chefs at Archer’s have confirmed a final menu for the event.

GET TICKETS NOW – Seated is limited to the first 40 tickets sold.

“CORKS and FORKS”
4 COURSES, 4 WINE PAIRINGS Just $40
(Menu subject to change)


THURSDAY MARCH 29th 6:30pm
ARCHERS KETTERING, 2030 E. Dorothy Ln, Kettering

FIRST COURSE:
BANGING SHRIMP and SPINACH DIP – Made with 3 cheeses

SECOND COURSE:
GRILLED ROMAINE HEART CAESAR SALAD: – Served with shaved Parmesan cheese and grape tomatoes. We may showcase Archer’s “Cardinal” dressing.

THIRD COURSE:
BEEF TENDERLOIN: – Served with a wild mushroom red wine sauce, on a bed of mashed potatoes.
(possible Salmon option for those who do not like steak)

FOURTH COURSE:
APPLE CRUNCH CAKE – Apple Pie topped with brown sugar, yellow cake, and mixed nuts.
(Key Lime pie option for those with nut allergy)

Wine pairing information to be announced later..

TICKETS MAY BE PURCHASED ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE…

Again, seating is limited and once seats are gone, they are GONE !

“CORKS AND FORKS”
THURSDAY APRIL 19th 6:30pm
ARCHERS KETTERING, 2030 E. Dorothy Ln, Kettering

 

 

CJ Chan Quietly Enters Year 8

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Inside CJ CHan’s Bar on Alex Bell Rd.

An unsung restaurant has developed a solid following over the past 7 years.  The restaurant is the locally owned CJ Chan on Wilmington Ave, with a second thriving location on Alex Rd for the past 2 years.

Recently, we have heard more and more fellow foodies ask us to meet at CJ Chan for dinner or lunch.  We have obliged, and after eating there about a dozen times in the past 10 months, our Food Adventure crew understands the attraction.  If they don’t get you with a sauce, they will get you with the sushi boss.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on CJ CHAN:

— This mom and pop restaurant opened up in 2010 at 536 Wilmington Ave in Dayton, and 2 years ago on 2747 W. Alex Bell Rd in Moraine/Centerville.

Full Sushi Bar

— The menu features CHINESE and JAPANESE cuisine, so you can try the best of both worlds, made by local chefs.  From Sushi and Hibachi to Szechuan dishes and Crab Rangoon, the menu has something for everyone covering the food spectrum of 2  countries.

— Both CJ Chan locations are small, seating about 40, but the dining room size is perfect for an intimate lunch and the crowds seem to flow quickly in and out.  Both locations have sushi bar seating as well.

— This eatery has some of the friendliest, most attentive service staff in town.  Sometimes there may be a slight language barrier, but overall, the service is very impressive.

Egg Roll and Spicy Shrimp dish

— The hours are great for early lunches or later dinners:
Mon – Thu: 10:30AM–10PM
Fri – Sat: 10:30AM–10:30PM
Sun: 11:30AM–10PM

— We just found out that they have a second menu at the Wilmington Ave location called the “Hot Pot” Menu.  It features, chicken, beef or seafood hot pots for $18-$20.  Are they soups? Are they just hot bowls of food? Guess what we will be having next visit …. ?

But what dishes are the best of the best on this extensive Asian Menu?  Food Adventures is here to sort it out for you on our patented MUST EATS list.  Grab your chopsticks and a napkin, because these aren’t fusion menus, they are 2 separate Chinese and Japanese full menus.. Here we go …

 

MUST EATS at CJ CHAN:

— THE EGG ROLLS:
We don’t know why, but the distinct flavor of these egg rolls are delicious. Mostly cabbage and wrap, the hand rolled appetizers have some spice in them that we find delicious and addicting.  Definitely take time to splash the egg roll inside with soy sauce and dip it in sweet and sour sauce.  You have to ask for that sauce, or they will bring you duck sauce.  Trust us, the sweet n sour sauce is night and day better than  the duck sauce.

Kani Salad

 

—THE KANI SALAD:
Incredibly refreshing mound of shredded cucumber, crab and touched off with hot mayo and vinegar mix with crunchy sprinkles on top.    Fun to eat with chopsticks, this appetizer will bring a smile to your face.  If you love crab, this appetizer is for you.  A perfect way to start your meal, it is an essential part of a successful visit to CJ Chans.

 

— SALMON TERIYAKI BENTO BOX LUNCH:
This bento box has it all for a great lunch.  The salmon is grilled to perfection.  Other bento box items include a California Roll, White Rice, and Salad.  It is priced right and filling option for a nice lunch.  They serve you a nice piece of salmon as the highlight to the meal.  Don’t forget to dip thjat California roll in wasabi and soy sauce.

 

—GENERAL TSO’s SHRIMP:
A great twist on a dish normally used with chicken.  It is a breaded shrimp dish with a hot and sweet browninsh sauce.  Typically served along with broccoli, they serve it with cucumber slices.  This was one of our all time favorite dishes at CJ Chans.  Great flavors in this Chinese dish.

—SASHIMI LUNCH:
This is for the serious sushi lover.  You get a bento box with 8 pieces of raw fish chosen by the sushi chef.  Also served with a California Roll.  This is a great deal and a steal at 9.55 for lunch.  You also get white rice and a salad in the bento box too.  In the past they have given us fish like salmon, tuna, white tuna, tilapia, octopus, and yellowtail.  Get a side of soy sauce, pout it in the small sushi soy dish, add the wasabi, stir it in and dip the fish into that.  This is PURE heaven …  Amazing, because the fish is so fresh it melts in your mouth.

 

—THE TRIPLE ROLL
Absolutely fantastic combination of Tuna, Salmon and avocado.  It is the best sushi roll at CJ Chan and one of our all time favorites anywhere.  Do you love raw fish?  This roll is for you and not for the squeamish.  It is a great deal because they pack a lot of salmon and tuna into this roll.  If you are not doing our wasabi and soy sauce dip to finish this off, then  you are missing half of the taste.

Teriyaki Salmon Bento Box

The key to CJ CHAN is to find your sauce and experiment with various dishes until you find your favorites.  Since the menu is so extensive, the sauces will lead you to the promise land.  Lunch is the best deal of course, due to better prices.  The sushi is a fantastic option and cannot be missed on any visit.  Both locations are great, but the busier lunch crowd is on Wilmington Ave, the bustle in and out and there is usually not a wait, but it comes close.

So stop in at Alex Rd or Wilmington Ave and experiment for yourself.  Make that sushi chef work his magic, and keep the bento boxes coming.  You will love it !

Food Adventures is a local Dayton area food blog that focuses on Miami Valley food places.  We have no rules, and eat it all,  We have a weekly article feature right here on DaytonMostMetro.com  Follow Food Adventures on Facebook for lots of food photos and fun by clicking here.

Please feel free to browse the gallery below, for more on CJ CHAN !

 

The Triple Roll

Sashimi Lunch at CJ Chan

Wilmington Ave Location

Dipping Spicy Salmon

Coconut Jello

Crab Rangoon

Great Sushi

Unreal Sushi Rolls

General Tso Chicken

Gyoza

Honey Chicken

Lunch deals are the best bang for your buck

CJ Chan – Wilmington Ave

Sushi

up close

Bento box

Bar Area

Spicy Tuna

Avocado Much

Spicy sushi roll

Mongolian Chicken

Fried Shrimp

Triple Roll

HIbachi Chicken

Sesamie Chicken

Fried Wonton

Rice

Miso soup

Norturo Roll

Teriyaki Salmon

Spicy Salmon

sashimi bento

‘Creek Milano’s Hosts Wright State Basketball ESPN Party

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Can Wright State do it ?

The Beavercreek Milano’s Restaurant at 2260 N. Fairfield Rd will be the place to be this evening. The Wright State Raiders Men’s Basketball Team are one win away from earning a spot in March Madness’ biggest dance.  All that stands in the way from joining those 64 teams is Cleveland State University.  This promises to be the BIGGEST college basketball party in the Miami Valley in 2018, just a few blocks from WSU’s campus.

Milano’s is known for their Atlantic City Style Subs and Pizzas, opening its first location near the University of Dayton campus on Brown Street in 1969.    After being bought out by some local restaurateurs, the eatery updated their facilities added locations in Miamisburg and Beavercreek.

The restaurant has plenty of TV Sets,  a big menu and a full bar.  All that is  needed is you cheering Wright State on to victory!  The game will be on National Television on ESPN.  What an opportunity for a fun Food Adventure !

IF WRIGHT STATE WINS, THEY ARE IN, IF THEY LOSE THEY GO HOME…

The stakes could not be any higher….

 

WHAT:  Wright State Mens Basketball vs Cleveland State
WINNER GETS A SPOT in the NCAA MARCH MADNESS TOURNAMENT !

WHEN: 7 pm tipoff  – TUESDAY MARCH 6th on National Television (ESPN)

WHERE: Party is at MILANO’S BEAVERCREEK LOCATION at 2260 N. Fairfield Rd

Can the Raiders make it into the tourney?  Come cheer on this underdog and see if the slipper fits this Cinderella team !

 

25 beers on tap – tip off here …

MUST DRINKS:

— Milano’s has an extensive beer list with over 2 dozen beers on tap !!
Here is the current list of draft beers at Beavercreek Milano’s  – The Big Ragu recommends and is gonna have a Trotwood Lager from Dayton, a Saison form Braxton Brewery in Covington, KY and a Paulaner Hefe Weizen from Germany.

MUST EATS:

—THE ATLANTIC CITY ITALIAN:
This is the signature sub. Genoa salami, capicola, cotto salami, provolone, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, special seasonings. Grilled and served with mayonnaise, or baked served with pizza sauce

—THE MEATBALL SUB
Meatballs on a roll with sauce and melted mozzarella

—THE DELUXE PIZZA
A Dayton favorite with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.

See you at the party!   We will be there !! RAIDER UP!

In an additional note, the WOMEN’S WRIGHT STATE BASKETBALL TEAM is in the same situation – needing a win today (March 6th) at noon vs Green Bay.

For more Dayton area foodie news, follow us weekly right here on DaytonMostMetro .com. We promise a fun, informative article each week. Like FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking HERE.   Making people hungry since 2008 !

 

 

A Deluxe Pizza Pie

what is at stake !

More PIzza !

The MEATBALL SUB !

Bar Area

Pizza and more

Calzones Salads and Housemade sriracha !

Hamburger Wagon Rolls into 105th Year + WIN FREE BURGERS !!

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The Hamburger Wagon is approaching its 105th anniversary.  Some love them, some don’t. If you have not tried them yet, what are you waiting for ??  **

** NOW IS YOUR CHANCE, COMMENT BELOW and YOU WILL BE ENTERED TO WIN 10 Burgers or 5 Doubles!**

Sherman “Cocky” Porter in the soaked streets from the 1913 Great Flood

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on the BEGINNING OF THE HAMBURGER WAGON:

The year was 1913. Daytonians know this as the year of the Great Flood of 1913.   The city was decimated by flood waters and finding fresh food that had not been contaminated was tough.  Miamisburg was no exception as floodwaters from the Great Miami River wreaked havoc in the village.  Miamisburg was virtually under water.  In emergency response, the Red Cross set up tents for displaced residents and workers at the top of the Mound Hill.

One of volunteers, made a decision that day, that would change history in Miamisburg.  His name was Sherman “Cocky” Porter. He knew with the cold weather, people needed a warm food which was easy to produce in mass quantities.   He decided on an old favorite family recipe of hamburgers.  The tasty burgers were a huge hit and grew in popularity across the city.

The Book that put The Hamburger Wagon in the top 100 in the USA”

As the floodwaters receded, the tent city closed and life in Miamisburg returned to normal.  But by then an addiction had been started.  Miamisburg residents loved the little “Porter Burgers” so much that he kept up with the demand and served customers everyday.  After the flood, Sherman Porter kept his hamburger wagon open, selling burgers on Saturdays. They were so popular it soon became a full-time operation and the rest is history.  Fast forward to 2018 – One Hundred and Five Years Later, and not much has changed.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on TODAY‘S HAMBURGER WAGON:

—The wagon you see today is not the original on, it is a refurbished , close replica.

 

— in 2018 The Hamburger Wagon menu has 5 items:
Hamburger $1.25
Chips $1.25
Can of Pop $1.25
Double Burger $2.50 

—The burgers are smashed cooked/flash fried in a deep, iron pan in an inch of oil.  They are topped with a round white  onion slice, a pickle sliced long ways.   The burgers are given a shake of salt and pepper.  The result is a one of a kind taste and a signature crunch.

The Legendary Burger from Hamburger Wagon

— On very busy days, the wagon sells around 1,500 burgers

—Super Secret Hamburer Wagon Meat Recipe:  For over 100 years the recipe has been a guarded and secured in a vault of secrecy.  Rumors abound of a little bit of sausage being in the meat, but Food Adventures cannot confirm or deny this.

—The Hamburger Wagon’s mantra is “We don’t need no stinking condiments, no cheeses or sloppy sauces.”

 

Six people have owned the Hamburger Wagon over the century, the latest being Dayton native, Jack Sperry.

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE OWNER, JACK SPERRY:

— In 2008 Jack bought the Hamburger Wagon, and has since launched 2 more mobile wagons for private events, parties

Wagon Owner, Jack Sperry

and festivals.

— Jack is a former All State Football player at Centerville High School for the class of 1980.  He is also an Ohio state graduate.

— Mr. Sperry has 2 daughters and is very involved with Miamisburg happenings.  For example, he is instrumental in organizing the Rock N Green tomato festival each year in Miamisburg.

 

 

NATIONAL RECOGNITION:
The Book “Hamburger America” gave The Hamburger Wagon a national shout out in their book.  The book highlights their opinion of the best 150 hamburgers in the USA.

 

Smashing and splashing – frying up burgers

MUST EATS at the HAMBURGR WAGON:

—THE HAMBURGERS:
You have to try the legend. Take a bite out of the icon with the crisp onion and pickle. Devour the crunchy patty, and take a step back in time. The burger bun also adds to the goodness.

—THE DOUBLE:
The Big Ragu says this is the best thing on the menu. Why? Because the onion can be a little powerful, and the double deadens some of that. Breathe less fire, get the double burger.

 

The bottom line is that if you are bit of a Food Adventurer, you will have already tried these  or will be trying them soon.  Go for the single and double – tell us which one you like better.

*****WANT TO WIN 10 BURGERS or 5 DOUBLES?  You can have lunch with the Big Ragu and Food Adventure Crew on a bench or get them to go .  TO ENTER THE CONTEST COMMENT BELOW AT THE END OF THE PHOTOS *****

Feel free to browse the gallery of photos below.

For more of Dayton’s iconic foods, follow FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking here.  Don’t forget to check back each and every week for our feature article right here on Dayton Most Metro !

 

The Double Burger !

Eat this !

Damn strong onion

Line em up !

Fry daddy

Big Ragu thanks you

A Triple Double – Ragu stacked 3 double burgers up

squish, spin, fry and repeat

tucked away like puppies

A Hamburger from the wagon awaits you

Drink choices are water and pops

its a wagon

Ragu says bring in MIKESELLS !

View from downtown

Big Ragu chomps a burger

oooh that onion

No stinkin condiments

Lay em out serve it up

Hurry up – weeze hungry

America at its best

Big or little orders

Pickles and buns

since 1913

We loves dem burgers

Slide a burger on

Big Ragu says try the doubles

Miamisburgs gift to the world

Big Ragu and You – eating burgers on a bench

Food Adventures Share SUPER BOWL Chili Recipes

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Tex Mex Chili Recipe

In our monthly Recipe Feature, The Food Adventure Crew tries to warm you up this chilled time of year.  Not to mention, just in time for the big football game, The Super Bowl.

Speaking of bowl, how about a nice bowl of chili?  Today, the Big Ragu shares his 2 favorite recipes for a hearty bowl of goodness.

One recipe uses Fritos and the other uses Esther Price Candy.

One recipe is a TEX MEX CHILI and the second is his SUPER SECRET CINCINNATI STYLE CHILI RECIPE.

Grab a spoon and maybe even a local beer and welcome to your next home-made Food Adventure.

Chili today, Hot Tamale!

Stovetop or Crockpot method works for this Tex Mex recipe.

RECIPE #1 –
TEX MEX CHILI topped with FRITOS:
(Serves 6 hungry foodies)
You can cook this in crock pot or the stove method. Either way it comes out a winner.
Ingredients
1 Pound Ground Beef
1 Medium Onion Chopped
1 (8 ounce) Can Tomato Sauce
1 (14 ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes
1 (Green Pepper, Diced
1 (15 ounce) Can Red Kidney Beans
1 Package Taco Seasoning
1 Teaspoon Chili Powder
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 Bag Fritos Corn Chip
6 TBS Sour Cream
Your favorite Hot Sauce
Jar of cooked jalapeno rings

Large Batches of these chilis are easy to make

Instructions option 1 – Crockpot method
Put all ingredients except cheese, sour cream, fritos and hot sauce into a crock pot, stir and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Ladle into a bowl, top with a dollop of cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, fritos and hot sauce. Add a jalapeno ring.(optional)
Instructions option 2 – Stovetop method
Brown meat with a little oil in a large soup pot.
add tomato sauce, green pepper and onion. Then add diced tomatoes, chili beans, chili seasoning, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and cayenne pepper. Cook 3-4 hours on medium heat stirring occasionally, lower heat if necessary to avoid splashing or heavy boiling.  Scoop into a bowl, top with a dollop of cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, fritos and hot sauce. Add a jalapeno ring.(optional)

 

Now that was a pretty straightforward recipe … this one however is a bit more intense…

 

Big Ragu’s Cinicnnati Chili Recipe includes Esther Price Candies

You can make Cincinnati Style chili like this at home !

RECIPE #2 –
BIG RAGU’s SECRET CINCINNATI STYLE CHILI RECIPE: (uses Esther Price Candy option)
(Serves 8 hungry foodies)
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 pounds ground beef chuck
1 ½ cup chicken broth
Kosher salt
1  six-ounce can tomato sauce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
4 pieces of ESTHER PRICE CANDY or 2 tablespoons chopped unsweetened chocolate
1 tablespoon cider or red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 pinches Freshly ground pepper
12 ounces cooked spaghetti
1 nineteen-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 pound grated cheddar cheese

Instructions:
Heat the oil in a medium Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add half the chopped onions and the garlic and cook until soft, stirring, about 5 minutes. Add the chili powder, paprika, cumin, allspice, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, red pepper and cloves. Cook, stirring, until fragrant. Add the beef and cook the mixture, about 5 minutes stirring, and chopping the beef pieces down to crumbles, until the beef is no longer pink,. Add 1 tablespoon salt.

Brown that ground chuck , baby and stir chop it into crumbles !

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, bay leaf and 1 1/2 chicken broth ; simmer the mixture for 20 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until slightly thicker. Add the chocolate, beans, vinegar and Worcestershire and cook until the mixture is thickened but still soupy, about 15 more minutes.
Discard the bay leaf and season the chili with the freshly ground pepper.
Divide the spaghetti among bowls and top with the chili, remaining diced onion and cheddar. – you now have a 5 way !
Serve with oyster crackers and your favorite hot sauce.

Alright Food Adventure fans – that’s your chili lesson of the day.
We hope you enjoy these recipes for years to come. They are perfect for parties or cold nights indoors, so WARM IT UP !!

Want more Dayton food scoop?

Follow FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking HERE.  7,500 foodies can’t be wrong.
See us right here each week on Dayton Most Metro with a feature article. Feel free to browse the gallery below and comment with your thoughts. #norules

The Cincinnati Chili recipe when finished and loaded has beans, chii, spaghetti, onions, cheese, and hot sauce on top. Serve with oyster crackers

The Tex Mex recipe is an easy one – slow and low is the key !

Dining & A Show at the Racetrack

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Are you looking for something different to to for dinner?  Then the Food Adventures Crew has a tip for you.  How about dinner at the Dayton Raceway’s Skybox Restaurant at the Hollywood Casino while watching live horse racing at a table overlooking the track? The live racing schedule ends December 30th, so you have that much time to book an unforgettable night of fun and food.

Sitting at the Skybox Bar checking out the beers on tap…

Today, we spotlight an unsung restaurant that really doesn’t get any recognition, but has been putting out some decent food for a couple of years now.  It is the Skybox Restaurant at Hollywood Casino and Dayton Raceway.  It is a smaller restaurant, with a bar and booth area with seating capacity of about 60 people.  During live racing days, the restaurant spreads out serving tables in the racino area that overlook the track on different stairstep levels.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE SKYBOX RESTAURANT :

—A one of a kind experience in Dayton, this restaurant is  “Vegas Style” in decor, but during live horse race days, the dining room also includes the tables overlooking the horse race track on 3 levels.

— The races are Harness Racing, where the jockeys are behind the horse on a sled with wheels.  The horses have to trot and are not allowed to gallop.  Getting into the action is CHEAP !  You can bet as little as $2 on a race and you can use electronic betting machines near your table or place your bet at the nearby betting window with an employee.

Chicken Quesadilla

— Live Harness Racing season ends at Dayton Raceway on December 30, 2017 for a few months.
Mondays & Tuesdays: The first race begins at 2:15pm
Thursdays , Friays & Saturdays: The first race begins at 6:15pm
Here is the racing calendar for 2017.  Call 937-235-7840 for restaurant reservations overlooking the track with a spectacular view.

— Typical hours for the Skybox Restaurant on non-racing days are
Sunday thru Thursday 11AM-9PM and Friday & Saturday 11am – Midnight

December is Shrimp and Steak for $12.99

— The restaurant is casual American Pub Fare with a couple of local beers on tap, but mostly bottled beers in stock.

— Each month they have a dinner special of the month, December is Steak and Shrimp for $12.99

— Wednesday is trivia at 7pm with special appetizers and everyday they offer 4 domestic bottles in a bucket for $12 or a Birdie Bucket with 10 wings for $18.

All You Can Eat Ribs Dinner for $19.99 – was a past special.

Now you are at the party spot, but what are you gonna eat?  Well, luckily the Food Adventure Crew has been to the restaurant about 10 times and tried everything on the menu.  As always, over the couple years we have developed our “MUST EATS” at the Skybox Bar and Restaurant.. so here we go …

MUST EATS at the SKYBOX SPORTS BAR at HOLLYWOOD GAMING DAYTON:

— ALL YOU CAN EAT BABY BACK RIBS:
This is typically a monthly special, but anytime they offer the ribs on the menu, you have to grab them. Cooked to perfection, these ribs are slathered in a nice BBQ sauce and melt in your mouth. Fall off the bone? YES and right into your mouth. Ask for napkins, as it is how they say “finger lickin good.”

— THE PIZZA:
The pizza, especially the Margherita Pizza almost rivals local favorites like Spinozas and Old Scratch Pizza. Do you like Dewey’s Pizza? Then you will love the pizza at the Skybox.

— THE PRIME RIB DINNER:
This is sometimes a monthly special for $19.99. If you see it on the menu, you must grab one. The dinner is delicious and so are all of the sides offered. Great view, great steak and races? This is the life!

— CHICKEN QUESADILLA:
Want a huge appetizer that you can share? You wont go wrong with this giant, loaded quesadilla with cheese and veggies, even guacamole and sour cream are on the plate. Indulge! Enjoy!

 

— THE CHEESEBURGER:
Going simple and quick? This is the best bet and grab a homemade soup. Fresh ground chuck, and melted cheese make the sandwich. The condiments are typical and you build your own burger. Just a good solid, no frills option.

— HOMEMADE DAILY SOUPS:
We have had a couple of their soups, and the chefs really know what they are doing. These homemade creations from chili to shrimp and onion soup have been phenomenal. Always something inventive cooking up in the soup world at the Racino !

Deep Fried Pickle Chips !

— DEEP FRIED PICKLE CHIPS:
Sweet, sour and salty, this appetizer is a perfect one to share with the table. The other option is to grab some ranch dip and slay the basket yourself. Either way you win with good, tasty food, even if you lose your horse race bet.

 

There they are – the MUST EATS you shouldn’t miss at the Dayton Racino.
This is one of the most entertaining Food Adventures you will ever go on.

Not familiar with horse racing?

IT IS EASY to be a part of the action with these few tips.

HORSE RACING 101.

Here are a couple horse racing tips on us:

1) Bring a pen with you, buy a program, ask them to print out Dayton Raceway only, to save money. Use the pen to take notes and circle your favorite horses.  Sometimes betting on the name of the horse works just as good as looking at the stats/odds.

2) Bet $2 on each race, so if there are 10 races, you will only spend $20 on gambling the whole night, and that’s if you lose every race !  If your horse wins, you will be paid out based on the final odds of the horse after all bets were placed.  The higher the odds, the more cashola you will be paid!

3) Betting Options:
Bet WIN and your horse must win the race
Bet PLACE and your horse can come in 1st or 2nd and you win $$$
Bet SHOW and your horse can come in 1st, 2nd or 3rd and you win money.

4) Chances at big wins:
Bet EXACTA and you must pick 2 horses and they must come 1st and 2nd place in the exact order you pick.
Bet TRIFECTA and you must pick the horses that finish 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the exact order you name. You win some decent money if this happens, so it isn’t easy to do !

5) Get into the race by clapping and whistling and cheering your horse down the stretch…
Some of the more favorite shouts we have over heard are …..
“Come on Now 3, mon now !” (use any number you bet on)
“Tap that animal” a tongue in cheek urge to have the jockey tap the horses butt with the long stick to get him to run faster (we dont condone animal cruelty).
“Ghanan ha wa hooha” – while slapping your program on your knee (this is just what most people do, they yell an incoherent scream and go crazy, we are just trying to fit in and add to the excitement and volume.

6) Designate an empty beer cup to toss your tickets that are non-winners. We call this cup the bucket of broken dreams and empty promises.. it makes losing more bearable …

7) Watching the races from the table is great, but take about 6 minutes and during one race, walk outside and watch it from the track.  You will be about 10 yards from the horses and it gives you a feel for the speed and intensity of these races.  There is no other feeling like it.

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Enjoy our photos below.

“Natcho” – typical night out…

Onion and Shrimp Soup

Fish n Chips

Boneless Wings – Medium style sauce

Cheeseburger and Fries

Pizza with Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Onions, and Green Peppers

Margherita Pizza is the best choice

Babayback Ribs dinner

Overlooking the track