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Food Adventure

Ariake is the Spot… Raw or Hot!

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Sushi Chef Sasaki

The original owners of Akashi on Harshman Rd. are back with a raw vengeance, literally.  Their newest restaurant, Ariake Sushi Bar is a great spot, raw or hot !

Eat it raw you say?  Great Sushi,  or fully cooked Japanese specialties you say? Hot Soups?  That’s right up our exotic food alley!  Hungry Jax, Big Ragu and Chef House never miss a chance for good Food Adventure.  Expert Chefs and cooks, giving you an authentic taste of Japan.

The restaurant is nestled into a small strip mall across from the Dayton Mall near Prestige Plaza.   Ariake is starting to gain a loyal following and is a fun place to explore the bounds of your tastebuds.  Originally suggested to us by Hungry Jax’s friend Parker, we dove in, mouth first.  After several return visits,  we knew this was a perfect subject for one of our highlight articles.

So here you go, another little secret spot off the beaten path….

 

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The owner is a wonderful lady named Miko Whigham, who along with Chef Sasaki provide a warm, inviting atmosphere with fresh, quality food and prompt service.

— Ariake Sushi Bar is located at 59 Fiesta Lane in Miamisburg , and are open

Salmon Belly – Grilled perfectly

     TUE – FRI  11am-2pm, 4pm-10pm
     SAT    noon – 10pm
     SUN   noon – 10pm


— Ariake’s specialty is a full Japanese sushi menu of raw sushi rolls, cooked sushi rolls, nigiri (raw fish on rice), and sashimi (raw fish, no rice).  They put the chef’s personality on display with a few original creations like the “University of Dayton roll.”—  Don’t like sushi? There are plenty of other options for you freaks.  Meal sized noodle soups, Chicken Katsu (fried chicken), Bento Boxes of non-sushi options, and fried Tempura vegetables are just some of the alternate food choices.

— If you and a friend are in for sushi, we suggest siting at the sushi bar for an intimate experience, and great conversation with the sushi chef.  If you are in a group of 3 or more, hit the comfortable dining room instead.

Now, drum roll please,  after many visits and trying most of the huge menu, here are our patented “Must Eats” at Ariake !

 

MUST EATS – COOKED:

— SALMON BELLY: Not what you think.  This was a couple of filets of salmon, grilled with the skin attached.  Perfectly seasoned, slightly crunchy from the charring and delicious.  Chef House deemed this as one of her favorites and we agree wholeheartedly.

 

The Squid Salad is a “Must Eat”

— SQUID SALAD with SEAWEED:  Here is where you trust us… Food Adventure time…. take a leap of faith, listen to your mouth and not your mind on this one.  Amazing flavor and one of our favorite things that all 3 of us raved about.  We don’t even know what the name for it is on the menu.  We have been there so many times, they brought it out as a complimentary treat from the kitchen.  It is one of the best things we have eaten at Ariake.

 

— OCTOPUS SALAD aka “TAKO SALAD”:    Yes they call it “Tako Salad,” but is is nothing like taco salad.  Sliced, poached octopus slices in a creamy, spicy mayo sauce.  It is wild, it might seem weird. But it is one of those dishes you say “Wow, that’s really good.”  Go ahead.. go on a Food Adventure.

 

— THE GODZILLA ROLL:  This is pretty much a deep fried Philadelphia roll, of salmon and cream cheese, with some spicy mayo, and green onion toppings.  This is one of Hungry Jax’s favorite menu items.

 

— CURRY UDON NOODLE SOUP: A meal sized bowl, it is perfect for warming up your winter blues.  Homemade noodles, spun in-house, make this a one-of-a-kind delicacy like no other.  And ohhhh man the broth, is tremendous.

 

— CHICKEN  TERIYAKI BENTO BOX:   Pockets of love on your dinner dish.  It is like a tour of Japan on your plate.  From Hibachi Teriyaki Chicken to Tempura Vegetables and Seaweed Salad, this one is a winner.

 

— KANI HAND ROLL: Just 99 cents and comes with cooked imitation crab, zucchini, and rice, all wrapped in rice paper like a mini bugle.  A hell of a deal, thanks to our friend Jason for pointing this out.

 

Honorable Mention:

Fried calamari appetizer- You know it’s good when even the kids devour it

Okinawa Soba – Noodle soup with spare ribs on top, perfect in cold weather

Okinowa Soba – Homemade Noodles and Spare Rib Soup

 

MUST EATS – RAW:

— THE DAYTON ROLL:  One of the most hardcore, meaty rolls we have ever eaten.  Covered in raw ahi tuna, this roll is filling and frighteningly addicting.  This was the Big Ragu’s favorite item.

 

— SPICY TUNA ROLL: Simple, spicy and full of flavor.  We think Ariake really shines on any item where the main ingredient is Ahi tuna.  Call it their “specialty.”

 

— SEA URCHIN NIGIRI: Chopped, tossed in spicy sauce, and wrapped in rice paper.  This is the best way we have ever eaten sea urchin.

 

— UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON ROLL: A huge triangular roll that we have never seen anything like before.  With blue and red fish roe, over the white rice and raw tuna, salmon and yellowtail with avocado.  They try to get the university colors, except for the yellow rice paper outside of the roll.  This is the biggest sushi roll we have ever seen.  Lots of rice, lots of good roe…

The Dayton Roll – so much Tuna

 

— ARIAKE ROLL: Part raw, part cooked.  Tempura Shrimp inside, Raw Salmon on top, makes this a colorful roll with sauces splashed on top.  Delicious and filling.

 

— DINNER FOR 2 (SERVED IN WOODEN BOAT): It has raw and cooked items but is a masterpiece of fun.  It is what Food Adventures are made of… from sliced beef, to cooked ngiri, and raw sashimi, this is for people with intermediate sushi experience.

 

We have been here a lot…. so much that they use our Food Adventure photos on their website…  so much that our friends have been married at the owners previous restaurant.  We have a fun relationship with the owners and appreciate their great food.

Dinner for 2 Sushi Boat

Give this locally owned restaurant a try!

Also – “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Follow Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu as they leave no plate unturned.  Every week, we write a feature article, right here, exclusively for Dayton MostMetro.com.  We write the stories ourselves and use our own, original photos.

Please feel free to browse the photo gallery below from our visits to Ariake Sushi Bar.

Ariake roll (bottom) and other sushi

Ramen Soups

Sea Urchin

Delicious

Curry Udon Noodle Soup

Special Sushi Plate

Octopus Salad

Spicy Salmon roll

Tempura on a boat

Salmon Bento Box

Green Tea Ice cream

Sushi Boat

Sashimi on a boat

Dinner Boat for 2

Lunch at Ariake Sushi Bar

Ramen Soup with Beef

Entry in Miamisburg

Spider Roll

Chicken Teriyaki Bento Box

Spoon it

Lots of Kids options

Salmon Bento Box

University of Dayton Roll

Hand Rolls for a buck each

Salmon, Mackrel and Ariake Roll

Potato Appetizer

Shumai appetizer

Salmon, Tuna, Ariake Roll

Sushi Boat

Sunset Roll and Godzilla Roll

Ramen Soup with Beef

Shrimp Tempura app

Chef using blow torch for Sunset Roll

Dayton Roll

Sushi for 2

Ariake Menu

Spider Roll

Hungry Jax eating sushi at Ariake

Spicy Tuna for you

Stone House Tavern & DMM’s Food Adventures Hosts Local Beer Tasting Dec 15th

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A Beer Event is coming to Stone House Tavern on December 15th

Calling all beer enthusiasts! Would you love to talk to the people that brew your favorite beers? Dec 15th will be your chance to mingle and drink with the owners of 5 area brewing companies.

Stone House Tavern is teaming up with the Food Adventures Crew for this one-night-only party!   They have pulled the chairs out of the bar, and will even host an after party with drink specials.

Stone House Tavern is only releasing 50 tickets for this pre-pay only event.  It is also a great chance to sample some of the best kitchen creations from Stone House!

You can only order your tickets online, by clicking HERE.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHAT: “STANDING ROOM ONLY” – a night with LOCAL BREWERS (Finger foods and appetizers included).

WHEN: DECEMBER 15th, 7pm-9pm  “after party ” with drink specials and cash bar 9pm–?

WHERE: STONE HOUSE TAVERN at 258 S Main St WAYNESVILLE

PRICE: $30 per person, includes gratuity (6 beers, finger foods/appetizers).  

Pre-pay only, limited seats, TICKETS MAY ONLY BE BOUGHT ONLINE HERE

 

The area brewers to be featured:

They will be in attendance !

LOCK 27 BREWING CO. – The brilliant brainchild of businessman and home brewer turned  entrepreneur, Steve Barnhart.  Located in Centerville, Lock 27 has made a huge impact in the area with its European “Gastro Pub” feel.  Meet Steve and learn his story about how he followed his brewing passion, and took a chance to fulfill a dream.

 

THE DAYTON BEER COMPANY – Meet owner Pete Hilgeman, the trailblazer and the first in Dayton area to start the “rebirth” of brewing locally due to changes in state laws.  Hear about his original bar on Dorothy Lane and undertaking the project of opening a second beer hall type location at the corner of 2nd and Madison Streets in Downtown, Dayton.  They have also started canning their products for regional distribution.

 

The Dayton Beer Company is coming !

RIVERTOWN BREWING CO., CINCINNATI – Trend setting brewery owned by Jason Roeper, located in Northern Cincinnati.  Talk personally with Rivertown brewing managers, and discover their passion for beer, philosophy on brewing, and innovative ideas to expand his business in the future.  This brewery is becoming a “little giant” in Cincinnati, due to their increase in bottling production.  This is a great chance to learn about “whats next” in the craft beer scene.

 

YELLOW SPRINGS BREWERY – Another local brewery that is under expansion and has begun canning  their brews.  Meet the owners and brewers behind this popular brewing company.  Learn about their philosophy on beer and what is important to them, as they continue to achieve more and more success.

 

Rivertown from Cincinnati

WARPED WING BREWING CO. – One of Dayton’s more popular breweries, Warped Wing has been pushing the envelope in partnerships and distribution.  They were the first brewery to start canning beer in Dayton in over 50 years.  Nick Bowman, partner/owner always has interesting stories on what is coming next, and how their new kitchen offerings will  affect the growth of their brewery.  Learn about the company and their dedication to honoring famous Daytonians with their product.

 

Does this sound like a great Food Adventure event or what?

Time to get your tickets and get ready to mingle wells and jingle bells.  This is a great early Christmas gift for any craft beer lover, or treat yourself to a nice night out.

REMEMBER:  5 Breweries, 6 Beers, One night only – Gt your tickets before we sell this thing out !

In attendance will be the Food Adventures Crew : Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House, as well as owner/partner of Stone House Tavern, Dan Apolito!

A popular brewery

Want more beer, food and fun?

“LIKE” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE

 

We pulled the chairs, its just beer and brewers !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yellow Springs will be in town !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Locally Owned Housemade Sauces Introduces Green Sriracha

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Locally made Green Serrano Sauce is coming to store near you

Your favorite locally owned hot sauce company, Housemade Sauces, is going GREEN.  Serrano Green that is...  Local Chef LeeAnne House has released some more bottles that she hopes will be as sought after as her previous sauces.  LeeAnne has worked in the food industry her entire life, and comes from a family of restaurant entrepreneurs.  We have the scoop on Chef House and her latest culinary creation.

*** And we are giving a FREE bottle away to a lucky, random reader who comments below ***

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on THE NEW SERRANO GREEN HOT SAUCE:

— Serrano peppers, tomatillos and pineapples are the main ingredients for this Serrano Green sauce

— Housemade puts pineapples into a juicer to make this sauce.   Then they boil the sauce to reduce it by half for a thick sauce with a huge punch of flavor.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on CHEF LEEANNE HOUSE:

— A lifelong Daytonian, LeeAnne has worked in restaurants since she was a kid clearing tables.  Her recent past jobs include being an assistant or Executive Chef at a couple of Dayton area, fine dining  establishments and caterers.

— Today, Chef LeeAnne House wears many hats .

1) She is the partner in “Bad Dog, Nice Taco” food and catering.

2) She is part of the popular food blog,  “Food Adventures” featured weekly on Dayton Most Metro.

3) Chef House is also the owner of the wildly popular Housemade Sriracha Sauces.

4) LeeAnne also helps organize the local “Night Market” events at the Old Yellow Cab Building

 

You can find Housemade Sauces at Dorothy Lane Market, Foremost Seafood,  Treadway Gardens and various local vendors.   Chef House has accomplished a lot in the past 2 to 3 years with her Housemade Sauces.  Here is a breakdown that shows how far she has come, and highlights some of the best products in her inventory.

 

Chef House cooking up a big batch of her new Green Serrano Sauce

THE HISTORY of HOUSEMADE SAUCES:

— Housemade made a splash in the Dayton area in 2013, with its first sauce, a red sauce, called Housemade Sriracha.  It is a delicious condiment made with red Thai chile peppers.  A sweeter version of the traditional srirachas sold in stores, it quickly sold out on local area shelves.  It won a national sauce competition, winning first place in the 2014 Cajun Hot Sauce Festival of Louisiana.

— In 2014, Chef House then released her second product “HOT HONEY,”  a local honey, infused with red thai chiles.  It was another huge hit regionally.  It also won a competitions, gaining 2014’s Best Hot Specialty at “Jungle Jim’s Weekend of Fire.”

— Housemade also released SPICE RUBS in 2014 partnering with Miami Valley Spice Traders.  The flavors of  Thai chili sriracha rub, tomatillo-serrano salt, smoked sriracha salt and chili sriracha salt were a hit for local cooks and chefs.

— PEACHY SRIRACHA SAUCE, burst on the scene in Fall 2015 to rave reviews.  It is her familiar sweet spicy sauce, with all natural ingredients and gluten free, which is typical of Housemade products.  The sauce is very versatile, from toast topping to spicing up spreads, dips and various dishes.  The sky is the limit with this one.

— Saturday November 21st, 2015, Housemade will debut it’s GREEN SERRANO  SAUCE at the Night Market at at 700 E. Fourth Street at the Old Yellow Cab Building in Dayton.

*** WE ARE GIVING AWAY A FREE BOTTLE of GREEN SERRANO SAUCE to a random winner who comments below on the story.
The comment section is after the photos

 

What is next for this local sauce company?  Stay tuned to Food Adventures and DaytonMostMetro .com for upcoming developments.

Also, make sure you follow FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Serrano Peppers for the sauce

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jason Kramer, of Housemade Sauces, bottles up from fresh Green Sauce !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A chef’s work is never done !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockpiling sauces for Holiday sales

Bottling party at my place ….

Capturing the flavors in a bottle

All smiles late into the night, bottling the good stuff !

Draining some sauce into the a large pot

Some of the special jars available at the Night Market Nov 21st

Stirring up some magic

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Green Serrano – ready for use

Testing phase of Green Serrano – experimenting with various flavor levels

Cartoon version of Chef House

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Housemade Jams for sale – rare

Peachy Sriracha – she is sometimes called the Sriracha mama

Salts – rub me

Best stuff = Hot Honey

The bottle that started it all – Sriracha sauce

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mikesells: Tins and New Flavors? ! WIN CHIPS !

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These tins will be in stores next week !

Mikesell’s Snack Food Company is bringing back the holiday tins for the first time in 15 years!  They are also going to introduce some new flavors in 2016 and we have the scoop.

The Food Adventures Crew was lucky enough to sample the new flavors  and we are so excited about the throwback tins, that we are giving away some free chips!

 

***Want to win some of your favorite hometown potato chips?  ***

Then comment below and we will award 3 winners the new tins that are coming to stores next week!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Since 1910, Mikesells Potato Chips have been a part of Dayton life, and still remain family owned today by DW Mikesell’s descendants.

—  The tins were wildly popular in the 70’s and 80’s, with throwback designs, celebrating anniversaries such as the 75th and 80th years in business.

— Next week, for the first time in 15 years, grocery stores will start carrying Commerative Tins of Mikesells chips, just in time for the holidays.  The tins each contain 2 sealed bags of chips.  Tins will be available for a limited time only.

 

— You can also order the tins online by clicking HERE.

 

Korean BBQ is one of the new flavors being considered for 2016

NEW FLAVORS BEING CONSIDERED for 2016:

Mikesells had been testing flavors at the Dragon’s games and at Unversity of Dayton.  Food Adventures was lucky enough to get a private sampling of the candidates, some of which will go into production in 2016.   Here are the flavors and our comments on them.

— HOT ROASTED GARLIC and DILL:  One of the favorites, look for this one to be a hit. Who doesn’t love garlic?

— JALAPENO RANCH: A nice ranch dusting, not overpowering, with a slight kick at the end.  Again, not too hot, just enough to take notice.  Chef House, the spicy food queen of Dayton, had a smile after sampling these!  This was one of Hungry Jax’s top picks too!

— LOADED CHEESEBURGER:  The most complex chip, even down to tasting the ketchup.  The flavoring brains behind this chip is brilliant.  Hungry Jax simply described them as “Aweseome.”

— HONEY BUTTER:  The flavor fad that has hit South Korea, may be coming to Dayton.  This Honey Butter chip has a very subtle taste, almost muted.  A very easy going chip, and would be perfect with dip.

Chef House, Mikesells Marketing Director Luke Mapp, and Hungry Jax

— SMOKED GOUDA: Probably a long shot, as it seems to have a pretty adult palate.  May need some tweaking, but they are definitely on to something unique..

— KOREAN BBQ: Very eatable chip, and such a disctinctly unique flavor.  We could see Daytonians eating the whole bag here… Hungry Jax voted this as her favorite and The Big Ragu rated this flavor near the top.

— CREAMY WASABI: This one had more bounce to the ounce than expected.  The little zing at the end is a perfect flavor finish.  The chip was The Big Ragu’s favorite.

 

WHAT FLAVORS WILL MAKE THE CUT?

As Luke Mapp,  ‎Director of Sales and Marketing explains, we wish we could offer them all, but the problem is limited display space.  He said that in grocery stores and other outlets, when you introduce new flavors, it often means you have to yank one of the current flavors.  All of it is due to limited shelve allowances.  Luke knows his stuff.  He is the great grandson of founder D.W. Mikesell and has had a lifelong involvement in the company.  We want to send out a special thank you to Luke and his staff for being so accommodating on our taste test and facility tour.  It was a fun and fascinating evening.

Behind the scenes at Mikesells, fresh out of the fryer !

Dear chip lovers and fellow foodies, stay tuned over the next 12 months to see which flavors will make it into stores!  But remember, you heard about them here first!

One last comment, Mikesells is introducing another product in February that we were able to sample.  Unfortunately, we were sworn to secrecy about its existence.  All we can tell you is that is was probably the best thing we tasted that day.   Stay locked in to Mikesells and Food Adventures, and we will spill the beans as soon as it comes out in stores!

 

*** COMMENT BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A TIN OF MIKESELLS POTATO CHIPS ***

The comment section is after the photos…..

3 winners will be chosen at random on Thursday, November 19th.

Want to stay a winner?  Are you a foodie? Then join the almost 6,000 local fans of Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Mikesells – new tins (on the right)

Jalapeno Ranch chips

The Food Adventures Crew at Mikesells Snack Food Company Headquarters

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zee cheeps are magnifico !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inside the office by the DW Mikesell photo with Chef and Hungry Jax and Hungry Jax’s kids

Creamy Wasabi Chips !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tins of past

Hungry Jax looks like an ant, compared to the pallet of Potato chips

Potatoes for the product !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Potatoes, uncooked and recently sliced

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chips coming down the conveyor belt and being measured

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tins are BACK !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Packaging station

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, back at the Mikesells office …

The amount of chips moved is amazing

Factory tour

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Homemade Pies at Ghostlight Coffee

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Pumpkin Maple Pie – A new Vegan twist on a Thanksgiving favorite

Need homemade pies for Thanksgiving?  Consider a new source: Ghostlight Coffee on Wayne Ave.  You can place your order now for pickup just in time for the holidays.
Dayton Dining and Food Adventures were lucky enough to get some pies from the ladies behind these  made from scratch pies,   Mandy and Mara.  Delivered in custom made personalized  boxes, the packaging alone set our expectations high and we have to stay these pies really get high marks!

Here is your chance to take some pressure off of your Thanksgiving cooks, and let Ghostlight’s bakers do the work.

 

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Order pies in person at Ghostlight Coffee at 1201 Wayne Ave. or go to GhostlightCoffee.com

— Your pie order can be picked up on your choice of 3 days (11/23, 11/24, and 11/25/15)

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Mara and Mandy, bakers at Ghostlight Coffee, hostedt a dessert tasting event last Monday.

These are the eight featured foods on this new “pies from scratch at Ghostlight Coffee” menu.

NEW TREATS:

— MAMA SMITH’S FANTASTIC APPLE PIE:  A perfectly made dutch apple style pie.  Old fashioned, and an American tradition.  Chef House is on record as saying this is her favorite of the pie selections.

— THE KENTUCKY BOURBON PECAN PIE:  Crunchy and creamy, with an almost honey taste, this pie is terrific.  The Big Ragu and Lisa from DaytonDining are on record as liking this one best.

— THE PUMPKIN & MAPLE PIE: A unique combo, the pie is soft and luscious.  Dairy free and egg free, it is a twist on pumpkin pie with a maple syrup combo.

— GLUTEN FREE CARAMEL APPLE PIE: Tina’s Sweet Treats makes this flavored pie for Ghostlight Coffee.  It is covered with a nice coating of handmade caramel sauce.

FullSizeRender

The Big Ragu enjoyed Ghostlight Pies From Scratch

— THE GHOSTLIGHT THANKSGIVING PIE:  A 10 inch Pumpkin and Maple pie with a Kentucky Bourbon Pecan pie stacked underneath.  This is like Dayton’s pie version of a Tur-duck-en.  We love the no rules approach and inventive boldness!  This is a Food Adventure item for sure!

— PUMPKIN SNICKERDOODLES: The classic cookie is back for the holidays.  The traditional taste with a pumpkin mix.

— FALL TONIC AUTUMN BLEND COFFEE: A special coffee featured as a blend with any of these desserts.

— GLUTEN FREE DINNER ROLLS:  From Tina’s Sweet Treats, these rolls are in just in time for the holidays.  We may ruin the health factor by adding some butter…

Some of these items may be available at Ghostlight to eat, right now.

Thank you to Ghostlight Coffee and owner Shane Anderson for sharing these sweet comfort foods with us.

Food Adventures thinks many Daytonians will take advantage of this special, limited time pie offering.

 

Want to take advantage of more food scoop around the Miami Valley?  Then, ” like Food Adventures on Facebook” by clicking HERE.

Limited time !

Look at those Bourbon Pecan Pies !

Outside of Ghostlight Coffee

From Scratch by Ghostlight Coffee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pies can be ordered to be picked up 11/23-11/25/15

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since 2011

The Big Ragu and owner of Ghostlight, Shane Anderson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie

Mara and some baked Ghostlight goodies

Pecan pie twist like no other

Barista Capital of Dayton

Pumpkin Maple – a twist on an old favorite

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fresh Pie

Pumpkin Maple

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Order Form

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sneak Peek at Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern

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The Great American Cheeseburger at Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern

The long awaited opening of the burger chain from Michigan has opened it’s first store in Ohio.  “Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern” will officially open to the public on Monday, but Dayton Most Metro and Food Adventures have a little sneak peek.

Thank you to Dayton Dining’s Lisa Grigsby for setting up the special tasting!  As our loyal followers know, we usually hit a place many times before highlighting the eatery.  But in this case, we will be grand opening chasers, and have only got to go twice before the public goes.

Thanks to manager Ed and the staff.  The service is already exceptional and high tech.

So here it is, the Food Adventures Crew take on the legendary Bagger Dave’s….

 

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Bagger Dave’s at Cornerstone of Centerville development, off Wilmington Pike

— Bagger Daves is a chain restaurant out of Detroit, Michigan with 24 stores.  They are planning to open more locations in West Chester, Beavercreek and Springboro

— The Centerville eatery is located at 5299 Cornerstone North Blvd., near the new CostCo.

— Features are specialty burgers and Ohio beers.  Look at it as a mix between Red Robin and TGI Fridays.

— High tech, hand held ordering system ensures accuracy and speeds up the kitchen process.

— Bagger Dave’s boasts they are “cool” but have no frozen items except ice cream, and no walk in freezers on site.

— All of their soft drinks are “in-house” mixtures and brands.

— Thursdays are 50% off craft beer days.  HOLY COW this place is gonna blow out Thursday nights.

 

Big Glass of Warped Wing’s Ermals for $2 on Thursdays? WOW!

When we write about feature restaurants, we usually tear up the whole menu on multiple trips.  This is a rare grand opening story, so here are the MUST EATS from our two trips to baggerville…

 

MUST EATS from the SNEAK PEEK :

— TURKEY BLACK BEAN CHILI:  Healthier spin on chili, but we doctor it up with cheese and sour cream for a full blown  Food Adventure.  Sorry, but the toppings made this delicious bowl of chili.  Perfect for a fall day,  and perfect to start your visit.  

— DEEP FRIED ARTICHOKES:  One of the most unique appetizers we have ever seen.  We love artichokes and Hungry Jax and Big Ragu’s Italian heritage prepared us for this day!  Please dip them in the Asian sauce, and thank us later.

— SWEET POTATO CHIPS with CINNAMON HONEY DIPPING SAUCE:  Light, airy with the most important thing being the dipping sauce.  One of the most incredible chip dips we have ever tried.  AMAZING !

— GREAT AMERICAN CHEESE BURGER:  The old, rock solid standard, this is the flagship burger.  Try this grilled godness and the sesame bun it is on will have you spinning in lip smacking fun.

— CRISPY BACON CHEESEBURGER:  Served on a kick ass on a grilled sesame brioche bun.  The burger is topped with Applewood smoked bacon, cheddar and Parmesan cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo.  So good, and so filling.  Bet you have trouble eating half of it.

— BLACK CHERRY CREAM SODA:  An “in-house” soft drink that is delicious and refreshing.  Love Dr Pepper?  This is for you…

— BROWNIE DELUXE: Not too big, not too small.  A just right serving of a rich, chocolate brownie with whipped cream.  This could definitely be a chocolate overload for some people.  For others, it is just another chocolate Food Adventure.

 

We were impressed with the food, beer and the service!  The atmosphere is a fun and bustling spot.

Visit Chef House, Hungry Jax and the Big Ragu on Facebook for more food pics and restaurant info that nobody else has even thought about.

As always, check out our photos below and comment about your experiences at Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern.

Turkey Black Bean Chili – EXCELLENT

Deluxe Brownie dessert

You must use the honey cinnamon dipping sauce with the sweet potato chips

Nachos – with fresh jalapenos

View of dining room and Big Ragu’s huge forehead

Dipping fried artichokes into the Asian sauce

Deep Fried Artichokes – one of the most unique and tasty things we have tried recently

Yes – HALF OFF BEERS every Thursday

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

44 Years of Flying Pizzas ** Win a Large Pizza **

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The Sicilian Square and a Hand Tossed slice in the back

Dough can be seen flying in the air through the windows at 223 N Main Street in downtown Dayton.  The familiar window sign, hustle and bustle is all part of “The Original Flying Pizza.”

The owners, the Graci family have been tossing pizzas downtown for 44 years, and they are still going strong.  One slice at a time, they have stolen the hearts and stomachs of many Daytonians by serving their special New York Style Pizza recipe.

 

 ** YOU CAN WIN ONE OF THESE LARGE, 1 topping PIZZAS BY COMMENTING BELOW (winner chosen at random).**

 

How did a mom and pop from Sicily, make their American dream come true?  Only Food Adventures has the scoop!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON HOW FLYING PIZZA BECAME A DAYTON ICON:

Brothers Tony and Frank Graci share a laugh at the pizza shop

FROM SICILY to THE USA :
In 1958, long before becoming icons in Dayton, John Graci and his wife Frances left Sicily for the United States.  They settled in New York City.  After getting a job at “Sam’s Pizza,”  John honed his pizza making skills.  In a twist of fate, that building would soon be torn down to build the World Trade Center.

 

FROM NEW YORK CITY to DAYTON, OHIO:
John and Frances decided to drive and visit John’s brother and his girlfriend who were in Middletown Ohio.   As fate would have it, they got a flat tire in Dayton.  John and Frances thought Dayton was a vibrant, fun city and full of life, with a lot going on.  They thought it would be a great place to raise a family.  The Graci family left the Big Apple for the Gem City.  Before you know it, in 1971 they had their own pizza shop downtown.  They had two sons, Tony and Frank.  John and his pizza were becoming a favorite, and he was even appearing on TV on Clubhouse 22 with Duffy the Dog and Malcom, showing his pizza tossing skills.

That was the early 70’s and the pizza business continued to grow in the 80’s and 90’s with cousins opening  stores in Columbus, Mason, Fairborn and Centerville.

 

The Original Flying Pizza Downtown

PRESENT DAY – THE ORIGINAL FLYING PIZZA DOWNTOWN, 2015
Now, the next generation runs day to day operations downtown.  Tony and Frank Graci can be found greeting customers and slicing pies daily.  They still use that patented “Graci dough toss” every day.

— The Orginal Flying Pizza is located at 223 North Main Street in Downtown Dayton

— NY style pizza by the slice, or whole pies.

— Two types of pizza: (You can win a large one topping pizza free by commenting below)
1) Hand tossed NY style huge slices
2) Sicilian Squares – a thick, more bread like crust topped with special tomato sauce (old school)

— They have calzones and desserts too

— Hours are Mon – Sat 10:30am -7pm, closed Sundays

— They serve beer, as well as host private parties

— There is a parking garage and you get the first 30 minutes free if you ask the cashier for a parking validation

Now you know the story, so let’s dive into the food….

A Slice of Cheese Hand Tossed on the right, a Sicilian Slice of Cheese on the left

Ladies and gentlemen, we now present The Original Flying Pizza’s “Must Eats.”

 

MUST EATS:

— HAND TOSSED CHEESE PIZZA (SLICE or WHOLE PIE):  This is it, the mainstay, the staple, the foundation of a Dayton icon.  The mozzarella cheese is perfect, the sauce is perfect, the dough is perfect… every time.  They call it “Neapolitan Pizza” which is the name for the style of pizza made in Naples, Italy.

WHEN YOU BUY A SLICE:  The slices are big.  If you order one, they turn around and heat it up in the oven for a couple of minutes.  It will be hot as hell when you get it.  We burn our mouth every time.  You have been warned.

WHEN YOU BUY A PIE: It doesn’t matter if you fold it and eat it or let it hang and get under it.  This stuff is the best.  They tape the box closed to piss off those of you who want to steal a slice on the way home.

 

Frank Graci lets some dough fly at Flying Pizza, Downtown Dayton

— THE SICILIAN SQUARE CHEESE PIZZA:  A thicker, more bread like crust, rubbed with olive oil and dusted with garlic and a special marinara sauce.  The ending finish is the thick sprinkles of melted mozzarella cheese.  It is the cap, on a piece of perfection.

WHEN YOU BUY A SLICE:  The slices are Big Squares.  Every piece has crust,  some have one side of crust, corner pieces have 2 sides,.  Very filling, very good.

WHEN YOU BUY A PIE:  A big square  pizza either 6 or 9 pieces.  This stuff is so simple and delicious, yet different than any pizza you have ever tried.

 

— THE CALZONE: The secret here is they use ricotta cheese in the calzones.  The fresh dough seals the deal, literally.  The only drawback is that every calzone is Pepperoni and Sausage, so deal with it.  Yes, they have one type of calzone.

 

— SIDE OF 3 MEATBALLS SAUCE and CHEESE: All beef meatballs, marinara and mozzarella, they heat it up, you eat it down.  It is like a bowl of cereal for Italian people.

 

Honorable Mention:  The BREADSTICKS at the Centerville location are the closest things to the old Noble Romans that we have ever eaten.

 

So there is your guide to another epic Food Adventure.

Now take a chance at winning a FREE LARGE PIZZA with ONE TOPPING by leaving a COMMENT BELOW!

A winner will be chosen at random on SATURDAY…

And don’t forget to”like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here!

Pepperoni and Sausage Calzone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meatballs in sauce with cheese

A peek inside the breadstick bag from the Centerville location

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Centerville location bread sticks

Bite into a Square

We buy Pizzas from Flying Pizza and steal slices on the way home

Sicilian Square

The Big Ragu and Tony Graci from Flying Pizza

Deluxe Slice

 

 

 

 

Slices of heaven

a view to a crust

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frank is able to take phone orders and spin pies at the same time

Sausage slice

2 Dayton Icons

Mikesells and Flying Pizza – matched perfectly

Top that

Special stuff

Door to the famous Original Flying Pizza !

Deluxe love

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clubhouse 22 – Duffy the dog, Malcolm McCloud and John Graci

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meatballs, sauce and cheese

Fork a piece of meatball

Calzones and dipping sauces

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warped Wing Releases “Creep Show” in time for Amber Rose Ghost Hunt

By 1 Comment

Warped Wing partners with The Amber Rose for a Food Adventure

Warped Wing Brewing Company has done it again with a new flavor of suds.  It is a Smoked Porter called “Creep Show.”  This Warped Wing release party is in conjunction with a Ghost Hunting Food Adventure at The Amber Rose, SATURDAY NIGHT, October 24th called “Creeps and Creaks.”

This is a one night only, one-of-a-kind ghost hunting happening.  Amber Rose Restaurant is giving unprecedented access to their basement and restaurant, for anyone who wants to see some spooks for themselves.   The party starts at 9pm and will feature a tour with paranormal experts and beers along the way.  The night will feature a tour with 3 stops, 3 beers and 3 appetizer stations.  After the tour, guests are welcome to explore on their own and enjoy cash bar drink specials until close.

So come stay out ’til 2am while hanging with some of Warped Wing’s finest, The Paranormal Investigation Team of Shelly, Kat and Alicia, Amber Rose owner Joe Castellano and The Food Adventures Crew of The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House.

Creep Show – A Smoked Porter from Warped Wing

Spots are limited.   We only have room for 40 scared patrons.  Attendees will be anything from beer lovers, to amateur paranormal investigators. CLICK HERE TO GET TICKETS.   Bring your cameras, recorders or any other equipment you may have!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHEN: SATURDAY NIGHT, OCTOBER 24th,  9pm – 2am

WHERE: The “Haunted” AMBER ROSE RESTAURANT, 1400 Valley Street

WHAT:  TOUR LEAD BY PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION TEAM

*** 3 Stop Tour Guide

*** 3 Beers

*** 3 Appetizers

*** Freedom to “ghost hunt” until 2am

AFTER PARTY: Open Ghost Chasing and Exploration, Cash Bar with Drink Specials and $1 menu until close…

 

STOP #1: UPSTAIRS 9PM –
The beer will be WARPED WING REVERENT RED IPA served with
SAUERBRATEN CROSTINIS, BACON MAC N CHEESE BITES and MINI-OPEN FACE REUBENS

 

STOP #2: THE BASEMENT: 
The beer will be WARPED WING’S CREEP SHOW (SMOKED PORTER) served with
GERMAN STYLE BBQ PORK on a PRETZEL ROLL

 

STOP # 3: THE MAIN DINING ROOM
The beer will be FLYING HEAD’S DOUBLE PUMPKIN served with
ROSE APPLE TARTS

 

COST: $25 includes gratuity (Pre-pay only)  

Tickets may be bought only through DaytonMostMetro by clicking HERE

DON’T FORGET THE AFTER PARTY until 2am: Explore the place yourself do your own Ghost Hunting,

Cash Bar with Drink Specials and special late night menu until 2am

 

 

So join this extra special night of spookiness, spirits, Amber Rose Food, ghost chasers and local beer!

It will be a WARPED night for sure.

Come hungry, come thirsty, and get ready for the CREEP SHOW !

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then join the 5,000+ fanatics on our Food Adventures Facebook Page by clicking HERE !

Warped Wing in the House ,, HAUNTED HOUSE !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This woman is said to be one of the friendly spirits at Amber Rose

Drink with the Food Adventure Crew All night

Chef TJ and Owner Joe

Outside the restaurant

Warped Wing’s Brewery – home of the new CREEP SHOW Beer

Enter for a night of food, creeps and drinks

Dayton’s Warped Wing Beer

CREEPS and CREAKS – a night of ghosts, beer and food

Partners for the event

Basement Beer

After Party will include $1 food menu and beer specials

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Osaka: New Buffet with Conveyor Belt Sushi

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Raw Salmon Sushi & Raw Salmon Sashimi

A new Japanese / Chinese Buffet called Osaka has opened behind the Dayton Mall and the Food Adventures Crew has the scoop after a few visits.  The newly remodeled building formerly housed Max & Erma’s for decades, and most recently Hazel Grill.  The place is basically a buffet, yet they are trying to distinguish themselves by doing a few things differently.

One attraction at Osaka, is the “Conveyor Belt of Sushi.”  Now, this is not the typical conveyor belt sushi at restaurants that winds its way around the dining area and is priced based on color of the plate you pick up.  No, this is just a side attraction and part of the “All You Can Eat” concept.

But this concept is a bit different at Osaka Sushi and Hibachi Buffet.

 

Owner/ Manager John Weng of Osaka Buffet

Gone are the metal steam pans, replaced by large family style, white serving dishes.  Each dish looks more appetizing.  Owner/Manager John Weng told us that this allows for a smaller quantity on each dish, in the hopes that no buffet item sits too long.  Beyond that, this buffet is similar to the ones you have seen in the past, although this one seems a little cleaner.

We have visited Osaka four times since it opened, and have tried virtually every menu item.  Here are the Food Adventure findings…

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Osaka Sushi & Hibachi Buffet is located at 8901 Kingsridge Dr.

— Buffet prices are as follows: Lunch = $8.95, Dinner = $14.95

— Not a fan of “All you can eat?,”  that’s ok ladies, you can order from a full Sushi, Japanese and Chinese Menu.

— Hours are: Monday – Saturday 10:30am – 10pm, Sundays 10:30am – 9:30pm

Prawns on the Buffet

— Buffet highlights include:

A sushi conveyor belt with plates of 2-3 pieces of sushi

A raw hibachi bar and grill, where you mix your ingredients and a hibachi cook stir fry’s your mixture with your choice of sauce.

Appetizer area and Main Entree bars

Soup, Fruit and Dessert areas

 

With dozens of menu items, what are the best eats?  From Duck to Crab Sushi, we sort through it all and give you our patented MUST EATS !

 

MUST EATS:

— THE SALMON SASHIMI:  Scope out the conveyor belt for the pieces of raw, sliced salmon with no rice.  These slices are fresh and melt in your mouth.  Absolutely the best item on the conveyor belt of love.

Spicy Crab sushi with Flying Fish roe on top

— THE HIBACHI RAW BAR & GRILL:  Take advantage of your own mini-Mongolian Grill.  Whatever your concoction of meats and veggies, may we suggest you ask for your mixture to be cooked in the Brown Hibachi Sauce.  It is absolutely delicious.

— SPICY CRAB SUSHI with FISH ROE on TOP:  These are easy to spot, because they have colorful fish eggs sprinkled on top of the sushi roll in colors of green,black or orange.

— THE CRAB ANGLE:  These huge, triangular deep fried snacks are STUFFED with crab and cream cheese.  The result is a big, filling couple of bites of cheesy goodness.

— THE DUNGENESS CRAB:  Hardshell crabs, cut in half and separated at the leg joints.  The leg joints are then battered and stir fried with a brown sauce.  The result is a crab crackin’, shell suckin’ good time.

— CHEESEY MUSSELS:  Baked Mussels in the shell, covered with creamy cheese mixture.  Perfect description would be “they’re heavenly.”

— RAW OYSTERS:  Rarely seen on buffets in Dayton, take advantage when you see these bad boys laying out on ice.

Honorable Mention: The Crab Nigiri Sushi was huge and delicious.  Also, the Fried Shrimp  are nothing short of addicting.

 

The Conveyor Belt of Sushi runs the entire time, replacing and adding plates constantly.

So there you have the lowdown on Osaka Sushi and Hibachi Buffet, the newest buffet in town. Smaller plates, less waste, fresher food

is their philosophy.  They have some great items, we are fans and hope the restaurant takes hold for a long time.

Osaka is a perfect place to push your pallet comfort zone.  Try new things from crawfish to frog legs.  Come out to Kingsridge Drive by the Dayton Mall and experience your own little Food Adventure.  P.S., the conveyor belt doesn’t work if you sit or stand on it … just kidding, but don’t try it anyway…

Want to try something fun?  Go to Facebook and “Like” Food Adventures by clicking here.  Join the thousands that like us on Facebook, and love us in their hearts.  Are you an Instagram Junkie?  Then follow us there at #dayton_foodies

In the meantime, browse the photos below from our visits to Osaka Sushi and Hibachi Buffet.

Serving plates, no steam pans – smaller quantities means fresher items

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A view of the Sushi Conveyor Belt in the corner of the Buffet Area

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pepper Pork and General Tso’s Chicken

Crab Angle – These are incredible and gooey and cheesy and OMG

The sign out front on Kingsridge Dr.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Baked Salmon

Stacking the sushi plates

Some Pink Sushi

Shrimp Tempura with Fish roe on Top

Half of the Buffet Area

Crab and Avacado roll

Crispy Duck !

Hibachi Area, Sushi Area and Buffet Area

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell

Baked, Cheesey Mussells

 

 

 

Mini tiramisu

Dungeness Crab

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the best fried shrimp around

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A full plate at Osaka Sushi and Hibachi Buffet

Dungeness Crab – incredible stuff

Crab Nigiri – (Cooked Crab Sushi)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mussels with Cheese and Fish Roe on top

Shrimp and Crawfish

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Desserts

Raw Oysters and Kimchee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crawfish

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spicy Salmon and Avocado

Hibachi cooked right before your eyes

Fruit Bar

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salads

A night at Osaka

Food Adventure in Progress

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sushi conveyor Belt

Raw ingredients for Hibachi

Serving Dishes instead of Steam Pan Raiders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Serving Dishes on the Buffet – smaller quantity on the plates, means fresher items

15 MUST EATS at DAYTON’s OKTOBERFEST

By 1 Comment

The Cream Puff from Schmidt’s – our #1 Item

This weekend mark’s one of Dayton’s biggest festivals and Food Adventures of the year, …Oktoberfest!

Held at the Dayton Art Institute, it is a plethora of Beer, Crafts, Cigars and Food.  Some blogs will give you tips on parking, but The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House have been eating and drinking their way through this festival for about 40 years.  So who better than the Food Adventure Crew to sort through the food with their hundreds of thousands of calories in expertise?

Grab your lederhosen and let’s dive in….

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHAT: Dayton’s 44th Annual Oktoberfest, a celebration of German food and culture

WHERE:  The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton Ohio

WHEN:  

— FRI, SEPT. 25th – PREVIEW PARTY SPECIAL EVENT – 7pm-11pm, COST $95 at the gate

— SAT, SEPT. 26th –  Noon – 11:00 pm, COST $7 at the  gate

— SUN, SEPT. 27th – Noon – 7pm, COST $7 at the gate

 

Now you know where to be and when.   So bring some money and get your eat on… Dayton’s Oktoberfest, where everyone is German for the day !

Get Pumpkin or Apple Strudel at The Strudel Factory Booth

Drum roll and Accordion intro … here we go with our patented feature, the Dayton Oktoberfest’s 2015 “MUST EATS !”

 

MUST EATS:

— #1  SCHMIDT’S CREAM PUFFS: 
Of course the #1 item is one so creamy and rich, you will pass out from pleasure.  The line might be long, but the end result is worth it.  Grab one of these huge cream puffs from Schmidt’s Booth, all the way from Columbus.  The cream puff is as big as half your head, and more delicious than 100 movie stars.

 

— #2  CHERRY or PUMPKIN STRUDEL from THE ORIGINAL STRUDEL FACTORY:
Another OMG moment at the festival, is when you introduce your friends to this little number.  Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu agree that  the Apple Strudel  and Pumpkin Strudel steal the show.  The food lines are not bad at this booth , and the strudel is fresh out of the oven.

 

— #3  THE BRATWURST in the METTS and BRATS TENT:
We are not sure if these are a German Club item or Dayton Art Institute.. we just know with a little sauerkraut, or Dusseldorf mustard, these babies go great with beer.  Chef House’s pick of the fest.  She could hang out in this booth all night, and with the beer trucks of course!

 

— #4  THE GERMAN POTATO PANCAKES from THE “HEY HEY” FOOD BOOTH:
Giant, delicious and cheap.  Unfortunately everyone knows about these, so the line is a little long sometimes.  Don’t fret, good things come to those who wait, and it’s not like the line to the Beast at Kings Island. But these big potato cakes are beasts in themselves.

 

— #5  THE GERMANATOR at ZOMBIE DOGZ:
Dayton’s #1 food truck rolls in with this hot dog smothered in braised beef brisket, beer cheese and topped with fried onions.  Another original item, where they knock it out of the park.  Fight the line, and get the rewards of this one of a kind, big wiener.  What’s on your zombie?

 

Pulled Chicken Sandwich from Smokin Bar-B-Que – Add some of their excellent BBQ Sauce !

— #6  THE PULLED CHICKEN SANDWICH from SMOKIN’ BAR-B-QUE
This Oregon District mainstay, comes in with an entry like a lightning bolt.  The pulled chicken is perfectly cooked, but the secret is in the sauce.  All foodies know that a condiment table can be where the magic happens and puts the ying to the yang.  In this case it is true.  Find the extra BBQ sauce bottle and squirt some more on your sandwich.  Close the bun, take a bite.  If some sauce drips on your finger, just get a canvas and hang an inspired finger painting in the art museum.

 

— #7  THE SOFT PRETZEL BOOTH:
Happiness is a warm pretzel.  We are talking so fresh you can hardly hold it.  We mean it, right out of the oven into a napkin, to warming your heart.  Soft inside, with the perfect outer crust, this pretzel is meant for some mustard and beer.  Warning:  you might crave a second one later in the night.

 

— #8 THE CRAB CAKES from BROCK MASTERSONS:  Seared on a flat grill, these gargantuan crab cakes are the best in town.  So good, that you will want two.  Also a thumbs up for the sauce served with the cakes.  It is the perfect touch and very tasty.  The crab cakes are full of flavor and worth the treat.

 

Chicken on a Stick from Bangkok House – Shockingly good !

— #9  THE HAMBURGER at THE HAMBURGER WAGON: Hamburg, Germany.. that’s a town, right?  Well this Hamburger Wagon is as old as many towns.  Finishing their 103rd year, it is fair to say they are a Dayton icon.  We suggest the Double Burger, it is our newest rage at the wagon.  And as always “they don’t need no stinkin’ condiments.”

 

— #10 CHICKEN ON A STICK at BANGKOK HOUSE BOOTH:
The strange looking skewer, the incredible smell off the grill.  This busy booth sells all kinds of specialties, but the one to grab is the Chicken on a Stick. The marinated chicken comes out perfectly grilled and the result is a cross between somewhere between tender chicken, and other bites having a slight jerky feel to it.  A “must eat at Oktoberfest !

 

The Huge German Potato Pancakes from “Hey Hey” food booth !

— #11  THE SUPERFOODS BURGER at BRIXX:  
Quinoa, spinach, avocados, cranberries and turkey  A surprise Food Adventure on a bun that we weren’t expecting.  Chris Bhai has done it again with his “out of the box” thinking. ion a burger?  YES! But the best thing is the taste!

 

— #12  THE PUB CHEESE FRIES from DUBLIN PUB:
Most Daytonians are familiar with these rich sinful cheese fries.  These hunger busting pub fries, topped with cheese and bacon, deserve a spot on the list.  Everytime we order these we find people reaching into our basket and snagging a bite.  Grab a batch of these hometown favorites. The are Chef House’s guilty little pleasure!

Dublin Pub’s Cheese Fries have become Legendary

— #13  THE WIENERSCHNITZEL SANDWICH from the GERMAN SCHNITZEL BOOTH:  
Pretty much a fried pork tenderloin looking sandwich.  It is a good sized sandwich that is easily shared.  There is also schnitzel under the Brats and Metts tent in the German Food line.  I’m sure a cabbage roll or potatoes would go good with this.

 

— #14  THE TRADITONAL GYRO from the GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH BOOTH:
So you thought Greek Fest was your last chance in 2015 to get these?  Think again!  Take advantage of this rare chance to get the same gyros served at Greek Fest.  The only other time you can find these is at World a ‘Fair,  We recommend the traditional gyro with everything on it.  We feel it is much more flavorful than the chicken gyro.

 

Hot, fresh, soft pretzels for sale at Oktoberfest

—  #15  THE ROADHOUSE PORK CHOP from THE BLACKJACK GRILL: 
A giant pork chop, plus a huge grill means the most eye appealing site at the festival.  There is nothing quite like watching these huge porkchops cook.  Served as a sandwich or by themselves, this is your chance to get a big slab of meat for yourself.  Dab it with some of the Blackjack BBQ sauce and it’s time to go to town.

 

Honorable Mention: The Cabbage Rolls and Saeurkraut Balls are also Food Adventure favorites.

 

There you have it!  Our lists of the 15 Oktoberfest foods that need to meet your mouth this weekend.  Did we miss any?  What are your favorites that we should have mentioned?  Please comment!

Also, browse our photo gallery below for killer pictures of the MUST EATS !

As for beer choices, you are on your own, we are having a food baby and can’t be bothered.  But if you want more foodie news, from the Miami Valley’s Food Adventures blog, then “like us on Facebook HERE.

Brats and Metts (Bratwurst and Metwurst)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who Doesn’t Love Oktoberfest ?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Germanator from Zombie Dogz

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brixx’s Superfood Burger – delicious !

Another chance to grab a gyro like the ones at the Greek Fest Gyros in 2015

Hungry Jax – not a reluctant foodie in the least

Hello Hamburger Wagon Burger ! HAMBOOOGA !

Black Jack Grill’s Pork Chops … cooking up nice, Frau

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We walk around the whole day calling everyone “My Little Strudel !”

Reuben Sandwich from Brock Mastersons

German Pastries everywhere

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

German Pastry Pretzels

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A couple Hamburger Wagon Burgers

Grillin Chicken

Seriously Good stuff

Pork chops on the Black Jack Grill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

German Chocolate Sundaes !

Crab Rangoon

LeDoux’s Crawfish Etouffe

According to Big Ragu ….

Don’t eat the Limburger Cheese Sandwich at any cost !

Brats on the Grill

Wiener Schnitzel Sandwich

Sauerkraut Balls for sale

Cream Puffs are works of art.. that’s why we ate them in the Art Institute

Even huge Cinnamon breadsticks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crab Cake from Brock Mastersons

Like a Twinkie Cream Puff

Apple strudel – one of the best things in the fest

Kibbe Beef Sticks from the Lebanese Church

Oompa Band !

Creme Horny Bayb-ee – yeah baybee

Elephant Ear

The Chicken on a Stick OMG that glaze !

Love the whole wings from Brixx

Beef Schwarma from Lebanese Church

Beer, Cigar – Ragu is loaded

Brixx Burger

Crowded

German Cannoli ???

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haunted Dayton Beer Dinner Returns to Amber Rose

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“Rhinegeists and Poltergeists 2” is coming BACK to the Amber Rose on Friday night October 2nd.  This is the long awaited return of the successful 4 course, 4 beer dinner. Tickets are pre-pay only (CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS).  Earlier this year, the event sold out and over 110 people packed the private, upstairs area of the “haunted” Amber Rose Restaurant.

 

POLTERGEISTS:

For the last 20 years, staff at the restaurant say that there are ghosts and apparitions that appear at all times of the day.  There are also claims of unexplained phenomena such as glasses and dishes being tossed, lights going on and off and more.  One of the ghosts  is believed to be the daughter of the former house owner.  She is a playful spirit named Genevieve Ksiezopolski aka “Chickie.”  Does she haunt the restaurant?  Take for example this incident, where a cook claimed to see a full apparition of a lady in a long dress who walked into the room, then turned and walked away. When the frightened cook alerted the staff, they quickly pulled the security surveillance camera footage.  CLICK HERE TO SEE WHAT THEY SAW ON THE SECURITY CAMERA.

Join us and 100 foodies for Rhinegeists and Poltergeists

 

NEW FINDINGS:

For the last couple of months, an independent paranormal investigating team has been taking sound samples, photos, and kinetic energy studies and have made some new findings.  We unveil the new evidence on October 2nd,  and also highlight some of the discoveries from the past investigations done by the three person team.    Independent Paranormal Investigators Kat Powell and Shelly Suittor met in 1999 as tour guides for the Ohio State Reformatory, Prospect Place, and Snow Hill Country Club and teamed up with Alicia Soich in 2012,  This “ghost hunter” crew has appeared on National Television!  Their work has been featured in “America’s Most Haunted,” “My Ghost Story”, and Haunted Ohio VI. They’ve logged hundreds of hours of field research and private investigations across the state.

What will their findings be?  Will they be contacted by “Chickie” or some other poltergeist?

This promises to be one the biggest and goosebump raising Food Adventures to date. We are expecting a sellout crowd of over 100 foodies, beer lovers and fans of the supernatural.

Hunter Schnitzel

Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu and Chef House will stick  after the dinner for some cash bar drink specials and a keg tapping.  We will be talking beers and ghosts with attendees.  The paranormal investigators will answer questions as well.

Prepare to be creeped out !!

 

WHAT:  “Rhinegeists and Poltergeists” Food Adventure 4 course dinner, with 4 beer pairings.  Seating is limited to 100 frightful foodies!

WHERE:  The Amber Rose Restaurant on 1400 Valley Street in Dayton

WHEN:  Friday Night, October 2nd, 2015 at  7pm

COST: $35 per person – includes gratuity

TICKETS ARE PRE-PAY ONLY and ARE ONLY AVAILABLE HERE – seating is LIMITED !!

***FEATURES: EVERY attendee gets a souvenir pint glass from Rhinegeist Brewery.  There will also be door prizes, trivia and of course the “PARANORMAL FINDINGS” and evidence presentations!  Do ghosts exist at Amber Rose?  You be the judge!

 

FOOD MENU:

Owner Joe Castellano and Chef TJ have put together the following four course meal:

Rhinegeist Brewers will be in the house talking about their beers

COURSE 1:  Sauerkraut Balls and German Bier Cheese Dip
COURSE 2: Beer Braised Bratwurst & Knock-wurst with Hot German Potato Salad
COURSE 3: Hunter Schnitzel with Amber Rose Bacon Sauerkraut
COURSE 4: Black Forest Strudel

 

Trevor from Rhinegeist Brewery will be on hand educating the crowd about his Cincinnati Brewery and their philosophy on beer.

RHINEGEISTS: 
BEER 1: Rhinegeist – German Style Hefeweizen
BEER 2: Rhinegeist – Oktoberfest
BEER 3: Rhinegeist – Seasonal Special Release!
BEER 4: Rhinegeist – A Surprise Tapping!

AFTER PARTY:  Cash Bar Downstairs, Special Keg Tapings, Drink Specials

Join the Food Adventure crew for RHINEGEISTS and POLTERGEISTS – get your tickets for this beer dinner here!

Make sure you “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE

Chef House and Hungry Jax at RhineGeists and Poltergeists #1 in April 2015

The ghost thought to haunt AMBER ROSE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chef House and Hungry Jax take in the ghostly evidence

Rhinegiests and Poltergeists 2 !

You may see a GHOST

Madame Ragu believes in ghosts

Hey tiger – grab a Rhinegeist on Oct 2nd with us

Hungry Jax, Trevor from Rhinegeist, Paranormal investigator Shelly, Big Ragu and Amber Rose owner Joe Castellano

Door prizes from our last event

Independent Paranormal Investigative team of Alicia, Shelly and Kat

Chef House and Hungry Jax at the first Rhinegeist & Poltergeists dinner !

The food at Amber Rose is Lithuanian Style and delicious

Grab your Wiener Schnitzel with us October 2nd

HAUNTED ! Don’t believe us? See for yourself !

Amber Rose – good food and ghosts inside

October 2nd – we cross the streams

Bier Cheese – we want a bucket of this stuff

Who ya gonna call ??

Bratwurst and Sweet Sauerkraut

Cougars are welcome

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sushi Club to Host All You Can Eat Food Adventure

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“Sushi Sunday” one night only, a Food Adventure Event on Sept 20th

Do you love sushi?  How about all the sushi you want? Then you need to get tickets to this one night only Food Adventure event called “SUSHI SUNDAY.”

On September 20th, the Food Adventure Crew, teams with The Sushi Club to bring you a fun night of Sushi, door prizes, more sushi, drink specials, trivia fun, more sushi, giveaways and more sushi…   The sushi chefs are ready for your appetite !

— The dinner will feature an All You Can Eat Sushi theme, with sushi rolls being made fresh.  Choose from over 43 different sushi rolls, (20 cooked and 23 raw choices) all made to order (vegetarian options available).

— There will also be “All You Can Eat Japanese appetizers” like shrimp tempura, gyoza(dumplings), crab rangoon and more.  A small, delicious salad with mangos comes with the meal, as does a small soup.

— Did we mention soft drinks and tip are included?

 

Tickets are PRE-PAY ONLY and we are limited to just 50 seats!  This will sell out and promises to be a blast of a FOOD ADVENTURE. BUY YOUR TICKETS BY CLICKING HERE!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Salmon and Avocado Roll

WHERE: THE SUSHI CLUB  at 2098 S Alex Rd in West Carrollton 

WHEN: SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 20th, 5pm – 7pm

WHAT: ALL YOU CAN EAT “SUSHI SUNDAY” FOOD ADVENTURE EVENT.

COST: $25 per person, includes tip, all you can eat appetizers and soft drinks.

—— Tickets are pre-pay only and can only be purchased through Dayton Most Metro by CLICKING HERE

—— Only 50 seats are available for this event, once they are gone.. they are gone

WHAT’S INCLUDED: Endless appetizers, all you can eat sushi rolls, over 43 to choose from (you can purchase raw nigiri or sashimi pieces for 25cents extra per piece), bottomless soft drinks, gratuity included.  Also expect some door prizes, trivia fun and giveaways.

ALSO: There will be some beer specials with wine and sake available for purchase as well.

Endless Sushi Party on September 20th’s Food Adventure

We don’t shy away or turn up our nose at all-you-can-eat, because sometimes you miss great food.   This is your chance to take advantage of this special night with prizes and bonus giveaways.

What a deal for all you want apps, sushi, & soft drinks!  It used to be the words sushi and West Carrollton meant fishing int the river for carp, but no more!

Come join us for “SUSHI SUNDAY,” a Food Adventure that will finally satisfy your cravings for sushi !  Please browse some of our photos below of Sushi Club’s delicious sushi rolls and more.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Want more fabulous photos of sushi and local restaurant food?  Then “Like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

We love the term “foodie” and that’s what we are all about, so join in our fun!  We promise a night of fun, sushi and surprises!  See you “Sushi Sunday,” Sept. 20th !

The Fancy roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shrimp Tempura Roll

All you can eat sushi at THE SUSHI CLUB

2 Tuna Sushi Nigiri and 3 Sushi Rolls

Vegetable Tempura

End of the meal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sushi rolls are endless, Sushi Nigiri Pieces or Sashimi are 25cents each

Shrimp Tempura

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sushi rolls are all you can eat, pieces of raw Ngiri or Sashimi like these four salmon are 25cents each extra

Sushi Club has some fantastic sushi rolls

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

Overhead view of 2 sushi rolls and 3 pieces of Nigiri Sushi eel and tuna

Tuna Nigiri and a playboy Roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuna Roll

Salmon Roll

Raw Sushi slices like these four, will be 25 cents extra for each piece

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pieces of Nigiri Raw Fish over rice or Sashimi will be available for an extra charge of 25cents per piece

Playboy roll

Tuna Avocado Roll with Sashimi Tuna and Salmon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Playboy Roll

Salad

Drink Specials

Hot n Sour Soup

Meet here for a Food Adventure Sept 20th at 5pm sharp !

Playboy Roll

 

Spicy Yellowtail

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

White Dragon roll

Dancing Eel Roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salmon and Spicy Salmon rolls

Temptation Roll

Mango Roll

Sushi Sunday is SUNDAY SEPT 20th !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The South Alex Roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sexy on the Beach Roll

Dynamite Roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Incredible Roll

The Mango roll and more

Angel Hair roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spicy Sunshine Roll

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuna Amazing Roll

Thinking Outside the Kid’s Lunch Box

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“Banana Dog” – a fun twist on PB&J

It feels like summer barely started and here we are already looking to start another school year! It’s that time of year again where we make sure our kiddos have the necessary supplies, new clothes and even technology to start the school year off right. In addition to being so conscious about your student’s educational needs, let’s explore some creative and delicious options for their appetites!

After all, Food Adventures aren’t just for adults !  Dayton Most Metro’s resident foodie mom, Hungry Jax, is here for some tips on making the most of your children’s school lunches!

 

EQUIPMENT:

First, let’s talk about the lunch box hardware that is helpful for making health, fun and easy lunches. Obviously, a good lunch box that has a thermal lining will help keep foods fresh and flavorful while it hangs out in your kid’s locker or coatroom. Buy a mini ice pack to toss into the lunch box/bag to further ensure their food stays cold.

Depending on beverages that your child prefers at lunch, a good thermos to keep water, milk or juice cold is also important. Finally, there are so many lunch container options that help parents create their own “bento box” for kids on the market. You can find many options in the food storage aisle of your local grocery store.

 

SUN-BUTTER:

While peanut butter and jelly has always been a fantastic “go to” for school lunches, these days many schools are not allowing nut butters due to allergy concerns for their students. A close alternative is using Sun-butter, which is made from sunflower seeds. Sun-butter has a very similar taste and consistency to peanut butter! Some kids might notice the difference right away, but keep offering it to them and they eventually will get used to it. You can find sun-butter in most grocery stores in the natural foods section.

 

TOO CRUSTY?

Do your kids not like the crust on their sandwiches? Get creative! Use large cookie cutters to cut their sandwiches into fun shapes! You can also buy actually sandwich cutters that are made to cut the shapes out to as close as the edge as possible so as to not waste any food.

 

Now THIS is a fruit roll-up!

Now THIS is a fruit roll-up!

TORTILLAS TO THE RESCUE:

Hungry Jax will vouch that when in doubt, put food rolled up into a tortilla and a kid will eat it. Just about any sandwich filling can be rolled up and even sliced into pinwheels! One of her family favorites is taking 8oz of cream cheese and whipping it with a tsp of vanilla and tsp of lemon zest. Slather a wheat tortilla with this mixture and then add fresh fruit. Roll up and leave whole or slice it up! A refreshing lunch that’s not the same old lunch meat or pb&j! And it’s versatile! Instead of a sweet cream cheese, go savory with chopped herbs and veggies!

 

 

DO THE DIP:

Another thing that kids like to do: dip their food into stuff. Why not make some fresh humus and chop up some veggies or pitas to dip? Slice up a baguette, pepperoni and mozzarella and let them dip it in homemade marinara for a fun play on pizza.

 

 

HOMEMADE vs STORE MADE:

Are your kids a fan of those popular pre-made lunch containers found in the refrigerator section of the grocery store? You know the ones: they have slimy, pre-cut lunchmeat, cheeses and crackers? We aren’t. And here’s why: we can create our own version for cheaper and healthier. Buy a stack of the segmented lunch containers (one for each day of the week). Chop up your own meats and cheeses on Sunday night and divvy them up within the containers. The night before or morning of, add crackers, fruit/veggies and whatever else you want. Boom. You just saved yourself money and preservatives.

 

SMOOTH & HEALTHY MOVES:

Do your kids like smoothies? Make a batch of smoothies on Sunday. Freeze them in small containers and on the morning of school, toss one in their lunch bag (don’t forget the straw). By lunchtime, the smoothie will have thawed enough to drink! It also duos as an ice pack!

Homemade granola is a great addition to a healthy lunch!

Homemade granola is a great addition to a healthy lunch!

Yogurt is another great option. Let your kids build their own yogurt parfaits! Buy a tub of yogurt and divvy it up into small containers on Sunday night (yes, we are keeping you busy on your Sundays). Chop up fruit for them to add as well as granola! Even toss in some chocolate chips for a special treat! Your kids will have fun assembling their parfaits and you can feel good that they are getting a healthy meal!

Salads are another great option where you can include healthy and fun options. Also consider pasta salads!

With a little forethought and preparation, you can provide your kids (and yourself) with healthy and fun lunch options that are more affordable and creative!

 

INTERNET & INPUT:

There are so many ideas out there on the internet! Start a Pinterest board and let your creative juices flow! And don’t forget to let your kids help! Make it a part of their nightly routine to put a lunch together for the next day. Get their input on what’s easy to eat but still fills them up. It only takes an extra 10 minutes a day to prepare your kids for the ultimate Lunch Food Adventure!

Check out some of our favorite go to websites for great recipe ideas!

WEELICOUS – a fantastic website for family meals!

100 DAYS OF REAL FOOD – learn how to feed your family with out all the preservatives!

EATING FROM THE GROUND UP – copycat those popular store bought favorites!

 

We hope our tips gave you a few new ideas to get the most out of packing your kid’s school lunch.  Think outside the lunch box and your children will be grateful.

Want more scoop on everything food and Dayton area restaurants?  The join the thousands who follow Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE!  You can also follow the incredible food photos of Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu on Instagram by clicking HERE.

 

Homemade granola bars are quick and easy and even freeze well!

Homemade granola bars are quick and easy and even freeze well!

Toss in a heathy muffin into your child's lunch as a fun way to give them their veggies!

Toss in a heathy muffin into your child’s lunch as a fun way to give them their veggies!

McGillicutty’s: The Greatest Breadsticks in the World

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The Best Breadsticks in the World are at McGillicutty’s, but get a side of garlic butter for dipping

The waitress brings the overflowing basket of breadsticks to the table, still steaming…. Then the look….. you glance at the others at the table.  Should you grab a piece and risk being seen as rude?  Do you pause and risk not getting one of the best breadsticks in the world?  These are the kind of problems you will face at McGillicutty’s.

A popular Kettering icon, McGillicutty’s has always been known for their food and libations.  Let’s face it, it’s bar food, and McGillicutty’s has some of the best in town.  Whether it is Tuesday Night Trivia night, or lounging after a Softball game, it is the perfect place for a laid back Food Adventure.

For decades, the Food Adventures Crew has been hitting up McGillicutty’s for good eats, and here is the full scoop on this pub.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

The Mega Mug at Mcgillicutty’s – They had ’em first !

— The Kash family has been running McGillicutty’s since the early 1990’s, and are some of the friendliest hosts around.

— The location at 1980 E. Whipp Rd. was a former Noble Roman’s restaurant in the 1970’s and 80’s

— The smell of pizza dough hits you as you walk into the door, and the low key atmosphere is great.  We know it is a family friendly tavern, but we prefer slinging back some drinks and grub with the adult crew.

— A solid group of regulars support the place from dart leagues to Tuesday Trivia (the best in town), and Sunday night Karaoke.

— They dont use deep fryers, they use pizza ovens to bake their menu items.  The result is some inventive and delicious ways to enjoy various traditional favorites.

— Known for festival involvement, another big day for McGillicutty’s is St Patricks Day !  They go bananas on that holiday….

 

What is the best of this extensive menu?  We’ve got the answers after years of research.  Without further delay, we present our patented MUST EATS of McGillicuttys !

 

MUST EATS:

— PRETZELSTICKS (BREADSTICKS): When we say must eat, we mean it here.  These are the best breadsticks we have ever tasted.  Here is secret #1.  They are called pretzelsticks on the menu, which means they are lightly salted.  Secret #2 is that you must try them with the garlic butter sauce or the cream cheese sauce.  Sure the nacho sauce is good and so is the marinara, but the garlic butter and the cream cheese are the top 2, no doubt.  You won’t see these tips anywhere else, because nobody else knows about them, except you.  Aren’t you glad to be our partners in food?

 

The Pepperoni Pizza from McGillicutty’s is where it’s at

— THE PEPPERONI PIZZA:  The pizza is the key.  Thin crust, square cut Dayton style pizza.  The sauce give McGillicutty’s it’s unique taste as does the cheese and the taste of the crisp dough edges.  Deluxe pizzas are great, and loaded toppings are wonderful, but for some reason we keep coming back to the basic Pepperoni as our favorite.  WARNING: the pizza is served ultra hot and we fight the urge and still burn our mouth from time to time.  So.. beware !

 

— THE MEGA MUG: Long before Mexican restaurants or any other bar had the huge mugs, McGillicutty’s had the MEGA MUG.  These 34 ounce mugs are perfect for ice cold draft beers, and MEGA MONDAY’s means they are only $3.50 for domestics.  No matter what day it is, get a  Mega Mug of draft beer with your pizza and breadsticks.  So good, so cold, so thirst quenching…

 

Teezers are Long Tater Tots Stuffed with Jalapeno Cheese

— THE TEEZERS:   Tater Tots with spicy cheese inside.  A perfect opening to a McGillicutty’s visit. We have had others, but not like these.  Maybe it is because they bake them instead of deep fry them.  Maybe it is jalapeno cheese inside.  Whatever the reason, we can’t stop eating these bad boys with a side of cream cheese!

 

— THE ITALIAN STEAK SANDWICH: Served in a basket with chips, you can get a half or whole sandwich.  It is a cube steak with cheese and pizza sauce.  They added onions & banana peppers, all on a hoagie bun.  For some reason the combo is a perfect sandwich after a Softball game, or for watching a sports event.

 

— THE  WINGS:  These are broiled, not fried, so they may be an acquired taste.  Still, get them well done and get the Buffalo Hot sauce and you should be good.  Different enough to try, and good enough to keep ordering.  The Buffalo sauce is the best option here.  We order them extra crispy, plain and dip the wings in the hot sauce.

 

The Philly Cheesesteak from McGillicutty’s, this is just a half, order yours whole with extra mayo

HONORABLE MENTION to the PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SANDWICH at McGillicutty’s.   It s nicely flavored shaved beef on a hoagie roll.  Asking for a dash of extra mayo is the secret to this one.

 

Did those peak your interest?

Next time when you are hungry and thirsty, try McGillicutty’s on a warm summer day, and even enjoy their parking lot patio.  Casual drinks, casual grub and a sports tavern atmosphere is the appeal here.  And you must order the GREATEST BREADSTICKS IN THE WORLD !  You may just even see the Food Adventures Crew inside with a Mega Mug and a pizza!

Want some more inside scoop on Dayton area eateries?  Then join Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax on Facebook HERE ! We are not food critics, we just love to eat !  We visit a restaurant many times before we write a feature article.  We don’t go to a place one time and then rate it, that’s an insult to you, the reader.  No stock photos here.  Look for the most reliable, complete and informative reviews from Dayton’s fave foodies, Food Adventures!

Join us on Instagram: #dayton_foodies

Follow us on Twitter: @food_adv

Broiled Wings from McGillicutty’s – never deep fried

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outside McGillicutty’s on 198o E. Whipp Rd

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Italian Cheese steak – the pizza sauce makes it.. We know, we eat it a lot

Pizzas here are phenomenal

Mega Mugs of Blue Moon Beer

Family Friendly Pub

At the bar

Opening hour

Tall Mugs – even of pop

Laid back, casual

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Breadsticks – actually listed as PRETZELSTICKS on the menu

Battered Pickles

The Cheeseburger isnt bad

Potato Skins at ‘Cuttys

Mushroom and Pep

Up close pizza money shot

The Breadsticks we all know and love

Making Pizzas since the early 90’s and knocking it out of the park

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Get Your Garlic On This Sunday!

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The Menus in concert for FREE Sunday at 5:30pm at Garlic Fest at 2625 County Line Rd !

 

The Menus in concert for free, 15 Food Vendors, Bocce Ball, Cooking Demos, and Beer.  Foodies and hungry people of Dayton, we proudly announce that Garlic Fest is ready for you this Sunday.  Dayton Most Metro and Food Adventures has the EXCLUSIVE SCOOP on food and timeline of the day!

This is the ONLY spot that will list EVERY food vendor and point you in the way of a great garlic loving time!

Come out……. it is in your breath interest !

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— THE  2015 GARLIC FEST will be held at the Sons of Italy’s Bella Villa Hall at 2625 County Line Rd in Beavercreek

— The event is FREE & will be held from NOON – 8PM

 

FOOD AND TIMELINE:

The Spicy Olive Oil Company will be selling flavor infused Olive Oils, Balsamics and more

11:30am:  The Bocce Classic bocce ball tournament will be underway, and food vendors will be warming up their grills and kitchens.

 

FOOD VENDORS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER (food booths will be open noon-8pm).

12pm NOON (Food & Beer will be available until 8pm)

1) THE AMBER ROSE RESTAURANT:  Look for the kings of comfort food, to throw a Lithuanian twist into Garlic Fest. Look for some Garlic Cheese Fries and a Mini Garlic Monkey bread creation.  It looks like owner Joe Castellano will be showcasing his Italian roots as well!

 

2) BRIXX ICE CO.: What is a festival without Brixx?  Chef and owner Chris Bhai always pushes the envelope while hitting home runs in taste.  His menu will have Grilled Wings tossed in your choice of sauces including Award winning Spicy Garlic, Sriracha BBQ, or Creamy Parmesan.  Also, look for an Italian Bologna Sandwich on Sun Dried Foccocia with Brixx Signature sauce.  Garlic Parm Chicken on roll and homemade kettle chips will please too..  The MUST EAT is Garlic Mortadella Mac N Cheese…(((BOOM)).

 

Brixx will be featuring their Spicy Garlic Wings

3) EL MESON:  The Latin food world will be well represented at Garlic Fest.  El Meson will feature their famous Paella, as well as their incredible food truck menu.  Their South American gourmet food is made with love, and you can taste it in every bite.  Served with incredible presentation, the food tastes even better than it looks.  Our Must Eats here are the Paella and Empanadas

 

4) GIOVANNI’S: The Italian pride of Fairborn is no stranger to garlic.  They promise to feature a Garlic and Gorganzola Stuffed Burger, and Garlic Pulled Pork Sandwich with Coleslaw, among other treats.  Our must eats here are the Italian Steamed Clams.  Chef Cassaundra Spaziani is bringing the good to the fest!

 

5) GYRO PALACE: How about a Middle Eastern spin on garlic?  Look now further than the masters at Gyro Palace.  They are featuring garlic hummus, chicken shawarma and falafel with garlic sauce.  Last but not least, their signature Gyros are MUST EATS, and will have a garlic Tzatki sauce. 

 

Mamma DiSalvo’s will be on hand with some garlic sauced pasta !

6) KOWALSKI HOTS: The NY Hot dog guy brings his cart to fest with a garlic twist… literally.  He will feature garlic butter breadsticks and a Garlic Dog with Sauerkraut option.  He will have his regular hot dog menu available too.  Try the Zweigel Red Hots with coney sauce or the Hoffmans brand White Hots with Hoffman’s Mustard &onions.  These are Big Ragu and Hungry Jax’s faves.   Thank us later.

 

7) MAMMA DISALVO’S RESTAURANT:  Nothing says garlic like Mamma DiSalvo’s.  They will be featuring a pasta dish with olive oil, tomatoes, sauce and GARLIC!  They may even add a little asparagus.  Whatever the dish, make sure you try the family restaurant that has stolen Dayton’s heart for over 3 decades!  Bobby DiSalvo’s pasta dishes are MUST EATS !

 

The Mohawk Burger from Mohawk Freestyle Grill

8) MOHAWK FREESTYLE GRILL:  Beijing Garlic Street Rolls are the special feature, a menu item you cannot get anywhere in the USA except Garlic Fest this Sunday.We love Chef Aaron and his big bites with big flavors.  Our MUST EAT here is the Mohawk Burger.

 

9) RITTER’S FROZEN CUSTARD:  He will have his regular, delicious menu available… a great choice in the heat!  Look for the incredible sundaes that Daytonians have come to know and love.   Our Must Eat is the Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sundae!

 

10) SCRATCH CATERING:  Ahh yes, the inventive vendor, Scratch Catering.  What do they have in store?  Well just one item will make your mouth water :  Flash Fried Sweet Garlic Chili Chicken tossed in Garlic Parmesan Aioli Roasted Pepper and Sweet Garlic “Masa Tots” with Drawn Garlic Butter.  Need we say more?  When Chef Matt Hayden is around, get ready for some damn good food.

 

The delicious Ritter’s Frozen Custard will be on hand !

11) SONS OF ITALY’S HOLY CANNOLI BOOTH: It is like bigfoot, because not many have seen the Holy Cannoli.  It is a cannoli dipped in a guarded recipe of batter.  The cannoli is then deep fried until crisp.  It is warm, it is gooey, it feels like you’re breaking the law.  Come walk on the wild side and try a holy cannoli, or just try a regular cannoli .. you really can’t go wrong.

 

12) SWEET P’S HANDMADE ICE POPS:  Perfect in warm weather, look for the one time only dark chocolate garlic pops!  Handmade, hand crafted and one of a kind.  Try them, you’ll love them.  Our MUST EAT – the Nanna Cream pop!

 

13) TEXAS BEEF AND CATTLE COMPANY: A newcomer to the Dayton area, we are expecting some good brisket and pulled pork, offered in a garlic BBQ sauce !  We like the name and the swag, we are hoping for big things from this meat company!

 

14) THE SPICY OLIVE, OLIVE OIL STORE:  Flavor infused olive oils that you will not find anywhere else.  These oils and balsamics are some of Hungry Jax and Big Ragu’s favorite products on earth.  These incredible olive oils have kicked our cooking up a notch, and are must haves for your kitchen.  Look for the garlic lemon infused olive oil, along with many other garlic combinations.

 

Gyro Palace – Their gyros are the best with garlic Tzatziki sauce

15) VOLTZY’S:  The hamburger king of Dayton is here and he is sassy and garlicky.  Expect him selling some garlic burgers grilled with onions and topped with cheese.  As always, insults are still free. If personality was music, owner Rick Voltzy would be a whole brass band.

 

16) THE BUDWEISER BEER BOOTH:  The beer truck will be at the fest.  Come grab beer from noon-8pm, must be 21 and over.  ***Ask about buying a Garlic Fest Cup and saving money on refills.

 

2PM-4PM: ACOUSTIC MUSIC with DENNIS CHRISMAN.  Laid back music, with this local, talented musician is sure to be a treat.  Expect some classic rock and even a little country.

Oh, and there’s more at 2pm !

 

 

Try the White Hots with garlic sauce at Kowalski’s Hots

2:00PM: COOKING DEMO with “HUNGRY JAX” JACKIE SCANLAN:  This wife and mom of two, hails from Utica, NY and brings her own special influence to the Kitchen.  Growing up, this Italian girl was always in the kitchen and now as a mother, she is introducing her kids to culinary fun as well.   Jackie has written some published recipes and is a passionate cook who has often volunteered for the DLM School of Cooking/Culinary Center over the years.   She also part of Dayton’s favorite food blog, “Food Adventures.” Don’t miss her demo! Held inside the Bella Villa Hall, these free cooking demos will include step by step instructions to make some delicious eats with some highly guarded, secret recipes!

 

3:00PM: COOKING DEMO with CHEF JENN DiSANTO:  Here is your chance to see a pro at work!  Regarded as one of the best chefs in Dayton, Jenn owns her own catering business called “Fresco.“  Her style is fresh and her flavors are amazing.  It is an educational experience whenever she is around a kitchen.  Please don’t miss this demo, it is a rare opportunity to see one of the best in action.  Held inside the Bella Villa Hall, these free cooking demos will include step by step instructions to make some delicious eats with some highly guarded, secret recipes!

 

The Texas Beef and Cattle Company will be there with a signature Garlic BBQ Sauce

4:00PM: COOKING DEMO with CHEF LEEANNE HOUSE: Time to heat things up!  The spicy LeeAnne is known for her locally made Sriracha Sauce and Hot Honey, from her company, Housemade Sauces.  Working in the food industry her whole life, she is now Executive Chef of  Mudlick Tap House in Germantown.  She is also featured in Dayton’s popular food blog, Food Adventures as well as a partner in the new hot dog truck “Bad Dog.”.  Take this special opportunity to learn from her experience.   In this cooking demo, we bet she will spice things up.  Her nickname isn’t “Sriracha Mama” for nothing!  Held inside the Bella Villa Hall, these free cooking demos will include step by step instructions to make some delicious eats with some highly guarded, secret recipes!

 

5:00PM: DAYTON’S 2015 GARLIC PEELING AND GARLIC EATING CONTEST:  $100 goes to the first place winner of this contest.  They will also win the strongest breath..  The Big Ragu from Food Adventures will emcee and host this contest on the stage.  It will be a battle of the bulbs !

Garlic Peeling and Eating Contest winner gets $100 from the Big Ragu

5:30PM – 8:00PM:  THE MENUS in CONCERT for FREE !!!!!  Classic rock, 60’s, 70’s 80’s cover music and more!  Watch the legendary, Cincinnati band play favorite party hits, while the lead singer kicks a few balloons while rocking the crowd!

NOTE:  You may want to bring a folding chair if you plan to stay for the free Menus concert.

 

Be the brightest bulb in your group and join us at Garlic fest.  Stop and smell the garlic!  Good food, good beer, good music, all on the grounds of the Sons of Italy.  A perfect match for a summer’s day.  See you there…

Are you a Dayton foodie?  Want more Dayton area Food Adventures?  Stay tuned with the best food happenings in the Miami Valley by “liking” us on FACEBOOK HERE !

Paella from El Meson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cooking Demo Schedule

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Voltzy let us try a Garlic Burger Sample

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scratch Catering’s culinary whiz, Chef Matt Hayden will be in attendance !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amber Rose will be rockin the Garlic Fries and Garlic Monkey Bread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nanna Cream Ice pops from Sweet P’s OMG YES !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Local Musician/Singer Dennis Chrisman will be providing tunes during the day

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Empanadas from El Meson

 

 

 

Come see the Holy Cannoli !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Voltzy will be selling these garlic burgers

Spicy Olive, Olive Oil store will be selling some amazing garlic oil combinations

Gyro Palace – we love your gyros

Taste the garlic goodness of El Meson’s Seafood Paella !

The Menus love food and music !

Summer Grilling Tips for Great Food Adventures !

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Italian Seasoned Salmon, and Shrimp with Montgomery Inn BBQ Sauce

 

Who doesn’t love a good cookout?  Most Daytonians are elbow deep in grilling season this summer.  From parties, to romantic dinners or family time, this is the time of the year to use that gas or charcoal grill.  The Food Adventures Crew is here with some helpful tips to make your grilling experiences a success.  The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House share our MUST EATS an MUST DO’s.. Grilling out version!

 

— PREPARATION IS KEY:  Prepare beforehand to make it easy on yourself.  Marinade your meats and pre-slice veggies ahead of time instead of fumbling on the grill table.  Ziplock bags work great to hold veggies doused in a bit of olive oil, and grill ready!

 

— MARINATE YOUR MEAT: A simple soaking can do wonders for tenderness and flavor.  

Hungry Jax says “Marinade chicken in buttermilk! It makes it so tender!”

Big Ragu loves using Soy Sauce, Worcester Sauce, and Minced Garlic mixture for a simple steak marinade.  For chicken, he uses a cheap bottle of Italian dressing or Olive Oil, Basil, Garlic Powder and Oregano.

 

Hand pressed patties from 80/20 Ground Chuck

— GET THE RIGHT TOOLS:  Make sure your tongs and flipper are long enough, and that they work correctly.  It will save you a few dropped sausages, or epic losses thru the grill grate.

 

— MEATS SHOULD BE AT ROOM TEMPERATURE WHEN GRILLING:  Take cuts of meat out of fridge 30 minutes prior to grilling, so they are not cold.  It won’t contaminate the meat! It will actually help you grill the meat more evenly.

 

— MAKE YOUR HAMBURGER PATTIES THINNER IN THE MIDDLE than the outside.  Always hand patty your burgers with fresh meat, and make them thinner in the center.   This is because the middle swells when you grill the burger.  This helps even the playing field, and prevents your burgers becoming undercooked meatballs.

 

— HIGH HEAT FOR STEAKS, ALWAYS:  Grill that steak and let it sit until that final flip.  The result is a juicy, seared steak with great grill marks.

 

Grilled Sausages with Beer Steamed Onions and Green Peppers

— FISH, THE LESS FLIPPING THE BETTER:   Cook fish about 75 percent then flip it once.  Let the grill do the work.  Wana see flipping seafood?  Go to Benihana…

 

— DRIZZLE LIME OR LEMON JUICE OVER SEAFOOD RIGHT AT THE END OF GRILL TIME:  This is always a  great finishing touch of flavor.

 

— GRILL SALAD:  Yes!  Chef House says, Grill salad! It doesn’t always have to be about meat.  Romaine, Belgium Endive and Radicchio are great together and hold up well on the grill. Wilt the greens and get some grill marks on there. Chop and toss with olive oil, vinegar and cheese.  Chef House suggests sherry vinegar or a sweeter white balsamic with bleu cheese. Fresh herbs are always a nice touch too.  Shout out to Miami Valley Spice Traders, who carries a great honey white balsamic vine

 

— GRILL PORTABELLA MUSHROOMS: 

     Chef House loves to marinate them overnight in orange juice, olive oil and garlic.  So easy, and her family’s favorite.

     The Big Ragu uses Worcester sauce, soy sauce and garlic powder for his Portabella Mushroom Grill Marinade.

 

— GRILL ASAPRAGUS: The Big Ragu uses Olive Oil and Garlic Salt when grilling these sticks of love.

Grilled Zucchini and Yellow SquashThe Big Ragu uses Olive Oil and Garlic Salt when grilling these sticks of love.

     Chef House marinates her asparagus overnight in her family favorite recipe of  orange juice, olive oil and garlic.  Is your mouth watering yet?

 

— GRILL PIZZA:  Hungry Jax loves this summer twist on the ole pizza pie.   Make sure you have a hearty crust.  Medium heat and inventive toppings are the key to pizza grilling  success !

 

— HAVE A LOCAL LUAU: Impress your family and friends this summer and have an entire grilled meal from local vendors.

Here are some supplier ideas from Chef House:

     Keener Farms, one of the the area’s best butcher blocks for grass fed burgers and brats.

     Ed Hill owner of Xenia’s HILL FAMILY FARMS has great Chicken available at Dorothy Lane Market.

     KJB PORK, available at the  2nd street market.

Fresh veggies from Homefull, Patchwork Gardens or Flying Mouse. All of these local brands are found at area farmer’s markets.

 

— LEARN TO MAKE GREAT SAUCES: We love sauces to go along with grilled meat.  Chimichurri is a huge favorite of Chef House and so versatile.   Here is another tip from Chef House… www.Epicurious.com is a great site for new sauce recipes.

 

NY Strip Steak with Bleu Cheese Crumbles

— GRILL CORN IN THE HUSK:  Here is a quick, fun idea the kids and adults will love.  Get some fresh corn still in the husk, cut it at the tip.  Peel back and take out the silks. Pull the husk back up and soak in water for 20 minutes.  Throw them on the grill wet and watch them steam the corn on the grill.  Flip until the husks are brown on all sides, peel back and serve rustic style with salt and butter.

 

— OVERESTIMATE YOUR MEAT: Chef House says cook more meat than you need, so you have leftovers!  Especially chicken, which can be easily made into some delicious tacos the next day.

 

— BEER ISN’T JUST FOR DRINKING ANYMORE:  Get a tin pan, and pour in 1/2 of a beer.  Add some sausages and sliced peppers and onions and let steam on the grill.  Touch up the grill marks on the sausages just before you serve it.  Serve it with the steamed onions and peppers too, with or without a bun !  Now you’re a hero.

 

Dogs, Asparagus and Salmon

— THROW LIVE CLAMS ON THE GRILL:  Wana impress your friends easily?  Throw a dozen live clams on the grill.  When they open, they’re done.  It is that simple, but your friends with think it is pretty darn cool.

 

— HAVE A GLASS OF WATER NEARBY FOR FLARE UPS:  Just in case your juices or grease catch on fire, this keeps you and the fire, in control.

 

— SPARE PROPANE TANK:  Make sure you have an extra, FULL, propane tank on hand.  Nothing says “oh Sh*t” like an empty propane tank during grilling.  You never know when you are gonna run out, so don’t!  Keep a spare, full tank near to your grill, in cae you have to pull the “old switcheroo.”

 

— PLACE GRILLED FOOD INTO SEALED PLASTIC STORAGE CONTAINERS:  Especially at a cookout, flies tend to swarm to open plates of cooked meat.  The answer is get some plastic lid containers and seal the cooked meats inside.  Trust us, it works much better than fumbling with open plates and aluminum foil with open cracks.

Veggie Shish Kabobs

These are the tips from the FOOD ADVENTURES CREW.   We hope they help you enjoy some summer cookouts by spurring some ideas.

Do you have some grilling tips you could share with us?  

Please feel free to let go some of your family secrets by commenting below.  We would be grateful, along with a lot of Dayton’s grilling gurus.

For more foodie news and Dayton restaurant scoop, please “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE .

Catch us every week, with a feature article here on Dayton Most Metro.

Follow us on Twitter, too: @food_adv

“We are not food critics, we just love to eat.”

Below are more photos from our Food Adventures by the grill.  Please feel free to browse them.

Mahi Mahi, Pineapple and Yellow Squash

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marinated Steaks, ready for the grill

Grilling Pineapple, Mahi Mahi and Yellow Squash on a summer’s day

Squuezing Lime juice on the Mahi Mahi

Steaming Peppers and Onions in Beer with Sausages

Grilling out for Charity

Grilling Chicken

Salmon and Asparagus straight off the grill

Poolside Grilled fish and Veggies

Grilled Swordfish and Veggies

Burgers and Dogs

BBQ Chicken and Salmon

Charcoal Grilling

Grilled Wild Grouper and Grilled Endive

Grilled local veggies

Squash, Asparagus and Pork – grilled to perfection

Grilled Wahoo and Grilled Clams

The sky is the limit for our grill techniques

Poolside grilled meal

Grilled Corn in the Husk

Sausage bought downtown NYC

Grilled Asparagus and Corn

Black n Bleu Burger from the backyard

Grillin clams like a boss

Peel back the grilled corn

Grilled Zucchini and Tzatzi sauce

Full Grill – is how we do it

Start eating, it’s done !