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Food Adventure

Eat me, I’m Celtic !

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Here’s to the 2014 Dayton Celtic Fest

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

 

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

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

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

—FESTIVAL GOES FROM FRIDAY – SUNDAY !

  • Friday – 6:30pm – 10:30pm
  • Saturday – Noon – 10:30pm
  • Sunday – Noon – 5:30pm

— Want directions??? CLICK HERE !

 

A Cheeky Meat Pie is in your future

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

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

 

MUST EATS:

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

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

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

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

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

 

Fish and Chips – Must Eats at the Celtic Festival

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

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

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

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

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

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Yo, Adrian! We Bit It !!

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The EB Pizza

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

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

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

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

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

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

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

3 ingredient Calzone

Calzone with Pepperoni, Mushrooms and Green Peppers

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

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

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

 

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

MUST EATS:

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

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

Entering the ring ... weighing ...

Entering the ring, from Dayton, Ohio …..

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

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

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

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

 

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

Taco Pizza

Taco Pizza at Rocky’s Pizza Ring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Americana Festival: 5k, FOOD, Fireworks & Fox

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Pork Chops on the Grill

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

Harvest Mobile Food Truck will be at the Festival

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

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

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

— EL MESON FOOD TRUCK: Empanadas to die for !

— MOM’S HOMEMADE GOODIES: Incredible Soft Pretzels

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

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

— OLD TYME POPCORN:  Kettle Corn experts !

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

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

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

El Meson will be at the Street Fair

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

— BLACKJACK GRILL:  The best grilled porkchops in Dayton

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

Check out our Americana Food Photos below !

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

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Chicken Fajitas from El Toro

Chicken Fajitas from El Toro

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

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

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

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

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

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

Del Mar Trio - Ragu's all time favorite

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

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

 

JAX’S VOTE:  EL TORO

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

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

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

 

THE BIG RAGU’S VOTE: EL RANCHO GRANDE

El Toro beef tacos

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

Pacifico Clara on Draft? YES ! YES ! YES !

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

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

 

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

Who’d You Rather?  CHIPOTLE or QDOBA?

Who’d You Rather?  FIVE GUYS or SMASHBURGER?

 

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

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Yaffa Grill: Our New Favorite Spot

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Marinated Chicken on the Yaffa Grill

If Fred Flintstone  was on Colonel Glenn Highway, he would say “Yaffa Gotta Do !” …and guess what, he would be right.

Yaffa Grill can be summed up as “simply exotic.”   It has worldly tastes of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine that are as authentic as they are delicious.  At the same time they serve the food on paper or styrofoam plates.  You see?  Simple and exotic.  Food Adventures have tagged this as our new favorite eatery, and have been visiting the 2 Yaffa locations with some frequency.

Want an authentic, unique Food Adventure that is affordable and fun?  Then look no further than Yaffa Grill.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— They have two locations, one at 2844 Colonel Glenn Hwy (across from Wright State), and the other at 21 Alex Rd in West Carrollton which features a Middle Eastern Market.  A local family from Palestine, owns both businesses.

 

— The food is Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean.  It is unique and exotic, but delicious!  You will see spindles of meat and flaming shish kebabs.  Yaffa Grill is a great place to experiment and try some new dishes out of your comfort zone.  You will be happy you did!

 

— The prices are right.  The most expensive thing on the menu is a whole grilled chicken for $15, and we know you cant eat that by yourself.

Click to enlarge this incredible appetizer called “Musabaha” which is much like hummus

— Very casual atmosphere.  The dining area is almost like a “to go” deli.  Warning: the drink selection is very limited  (cans of pop and bottled water).

 

Don’t know what to order or where to start on such a diverse menu with possibly unfamiliar choices?  No problem, The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax have a list of “must eats” that wont disappoint you.  There are various spellings out there of the dishes below, but we will use the spellings on the Yaffa menu.

 

MUST EATS:

—MUSABAHA : The hardest thing about ordering it, is pronouncing it.  It is a crushed chickpea puree, much like a hummus, with olive oil, lemon juice and spices mixed in.  One of our favorite appetizers for sure.  Dipping the pita bread served into this appetizer is one of life’s golden pleasures.

 

—EGGPLANT SALAD:  The Big Ragu has seen his fair share of eggplant dishes.  This was one of the most unique and delicious ones we have come across.  Served cold, it is perfectly mixed with roasted peppers, tomatoes and vegetables.  Excellent pairing with the pita bread, it is a meal in itself.

 

— YAFFA MIX GRILL: A sampling of 3 of the best shish kebabs in Dayton.  The plate consists of a chicken shish kebab, steak kebab, and a beef/lamb mixed kebab.  It is fun to watch the cooks prepare the kebabs on the huge skewers, over the open flame.  We loved this dish.  The grilled meat and vegetables make it a heart healthy choice.

 

Kufta Kebabs. Get the Mixed Grill and sample all 3 types of Kebabs

— THE HALF GRILLED CHICKEN:  We don’t know how, but Yaffa Grill made a delicious chicken like we have never tasted before.  The Mediterranean spices were marinated and infused into the chicken in some sort of delicious sauce/rub.  The result was a lip smacking, moist, melt-in-your mouth experience.  A definite ‘must eat.’

 

— BEEF SHAWERMA:  Flame cooked lamb and beef, sliced from the meat rotesserie.   We especially love dishes that are carved off of rotating spindles of meat.   It is a tasty treat that explodes with flavor.   When served in a wrap, it is a “Food Adventure on the go.”

 

Honorable Mention:  Fatayer: a delicious bread stuffed with your choice of spices.  Lentil Soup:  Yeah, we never thought we would ever write this, but the lentil soup is amazing.

 

With so many great choices on the menu, it was hard to limit our ‘must eats.’  Even the “Baba Ghanouj” dip was some of the best we’ve had.  If you like hummus, try it.

 

Dates, and other produce at Yaffi Market in West Carrollton

Yaffa Grill is a perfect place to experience a new culture and have your very own Food Adventure.  It is a fascinating place for true foodies, and a sampling ground for those with an open mind, who are tired of the “same old thing.”  Vegetarians love this place for the flavorful entrees!  They even have a kids menu with hot dog, burger and chicken nuggets option.

Yaffa Grill does not have a website yet, or a Facebook page, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get some delicious food.  Don’t forget that the West Carrollton location has a market  with various hard to find imported groceries from far away lands.  Canned goods, baked items, meats, nuts and even dairy products line the shelves.  It is definitely worth a visit.

Make sure you get some grub at Yaffa Grill,  The Food Adventure Crew cherish it as one of their favorite places in Dayton.  We are addicted, and we think you will be too.

Here is something you wont see anywhere else online, the Yaffa Grill Menu —> PAGE 1   PAGE2   PAGE3   PAGE 4

Some of our best photos of the year are in the picture gallery below, so make sure you scroll through them to see all of the dishes that Yaffa Grill has to offer.

What’s almost as good as a freshly grilled Yaffa Kebab?   The answer is “liking” Food Adventures on Facebook, by clicking HERE.

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

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Warped Wing Logo

Dayton’s own brewery, Warped Wing!

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

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

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

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

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

MENU FOR THE NIGHT:

COURSE 1:  Jimmie’s Homemade Gumbo

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

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

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

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

 

Ladder 11

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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Hot House! Local Chef Heats Things Up With New Sriracha Sauce

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Hot stuff in Dayton

Dayton Chef LeeAnne House, with her Housemade Sriracha Sauce !

We’ve got the boss with the hot sauce right here!  Want to heat up your Food Adventures at home?  Then look no further.

Local chef, our own LeeAnne House has made her mark in the kitchens of upscale area restaurants. Now she is out on her own, with a new company called Housemade.  Her first bottled product is a popular one, called Housemade Sriracha Sauce. She started experimenting with new sauces in her apartment kitchen and the batches grew, and so did the demand.  Now she has taken her saucy self corporate.

Believe it or not, sriracha is a style of sauce, and not a brand name.  We are all familiar with that plastic bottle with the rooster and green spout.  This gives that sauce a kick in the pants.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— LeeAnne grew up in the food industry.  Her parents at one time owned various restaurants like Lincoln Park Grille, Oregon Express, and others.  LeeAnne worked her way up from bussing tables to chief hottie.

bottling plant

Bottles of Housemade Sriracha, Ready to be Labeled

— The sauce took a year and a half to perfect.  Originally home cooked and home produced, she is now off  to the big time with the same, natural recipe.  Food Adventures have been trying her home batch sriracha sauces for months, so we are especially happy to see her recent success.

— This sauce won 1st prize in the 2014 Louisiana Cajun Hot Sauce Festival, for the best specialty chili sauce, and is being blogged about nationally from California to Nashville.  Foodies and Food Adventurers agree, it’s fantastic!

— A bottle of this sauce goes a long way, good thing there is a 2 year shelf life.

 

WHY IS THIS SAUCE A MUST EAT?

— FLAVOR:  That is the most important thing, right?  Not just heat for the sake of heat, but good flavor is what a sauce is all about.  Housemade Sriracha is sweeter, hotter and meaner than the sriracha you are used to.   There is a good amount of tang and zing to get your tastebuds rolling.

 — ALL PEPPERS in this sauce are Thai Chili Peppers, and the sauce has NO STEMS.  This is huge, because most mass produced sauces have stems ground into them, thereby changing the flavor of the sauce.  Housemade keeps the flavor truer to the pepper itself with the tedious process of stem removal.

— NATURAL INGREDIENTS:  We wont give away the recipe, just read the side of the label for the natural ingredients.  Did we mention it is vegan and gluten-free ?

— LOCALLY MADE – Whenever possible local ingredients are used, local farmers, and the sauce is assembled from Dayton to Chillicothe.  Hello, support local, buy local.  Expect different sauces from Housemade in the future !

 

The Big Ragu knows you can get Housemade Sriracha at Foremost Seafood

The Big Ragu knows where to get Housemade Sriracha, and now, you do too !

The Big Ragu loves the sauce on chili, shrimp, wings and anything mexican (nachos, tacos, tortas, burritos and sopes).

LITE BITES: Try the sriracha on egg white omelettes, roasted veggies, homemade vegetable soups, and quinoa.

 

Housemade Sriracha Sauce has made its way into local restaurants and has been appearing on specials at Lily’s Bistro, and pizzas at  Oregon Express to name a couple.  We expect more locally owned restaurants to follow this trend.  In fact, the demand has been so good, that a second batch has already gone into production.

 

WHERE CAN YOU BUY THE BOTTLES OF HOUSEMADE SRIRACHA?

— Arrow Wine & Spirits

— Clash Consignments

— Eclectic Essentials

— Foremost Seafood

— Healthy Alternative Markets

— The Spice Rack

— Yankee Street Market

 

In more ways than one, it is the hottest product in Dayton.  Housemade Sriracha, we love you, you hot thang you ….

Speaking of hotness, check out Food Adventures on Facebook  and “like” them HERE

Also, see more of LeeAnne and her hot sauce in the photo gallery below!

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Rock n Green Tomato Festival to Feature Pie Baking Contest !

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Delicious pie

Green Tomato Pie – Can you make the best one?

Calling all bakers!!  Miamisburg needs you.  Saturday June 14th is the 4th Annual Rock N Green Tomato Festival.  One of the features is a “GREEN TOMATO PIE CONTEST.”  

Can you bake the best pie?  Do you have what it takes?  Can you be the champ?  Prizes will include 1st, 2nd and 3rd place trophies.  Register and prove you have the skills to make the most delicious pie of them all!

The judges for this contest are the only locals with mouths big enough to fit the bill, Chef House, Hungry Jax and Big Ragu from Food Adventures !

 

***TO ENTER THE BAKING CONTEST, Fill out and send in this form by June 11th !  —> click here for form

You have to register by June 11th, then bring your pie to Ron’s Pizza house at 5:30pm on June 14th.  The contest begins at 6pm.  Ron’s will keep your pie warm or cold for you at your direction.  The Food Adventures Crew are serious eaters, and are sure to have their taste buds tuned up and ready for the test …  Are you kitchen savvy enough to win?  Then get your oven mitts, pie crusts, and baking pans ready for this Green Tomato Pie Baking Contest.  But most of all, you have to sign up !

Green Tomato Pizza

Green Tomato Pizza? It was Delicious !

 

This event promises to be a festive Food Adventure at Miamisburg’s Riverfront Park!

The Rock N Green Tomato Festival is relatively new, but has picked up a loyal following in 4 short years.

This cozy festival is a blast and a MUST EAT on your summer list of festivities.  It is a friendly, fun atmosphere with plenty of food and drink.  Speaking of which..

We also have a side contest***  WANT TO WIN DINNER with THE FOOD ADVENTURE CREW at the Rock n Green Tomato Festival for you and a friend?  Then comment on the story below and tell us why you deserve it!  One winner will be chosen at random, and they may bring a guest and meet us at the festival at 4pm.   It looks like Hamburger Wagon Burgers and Ron’s Pizzas are on the menu !  You cant beat a free dinner for you and a pal with 2 original Dayton Food Adventurers!

Fried Green Tomatoes

We love the Fried Green Tomatoes at the festival

 

*******FESTIVAL INFO*******

WHAT: ROCK N GREEN TOMATO FESTIVAL

WHEN: SATURDAY JUNE 14th from Noon – 11pm

WHERE:  Downtown Miamisburg, next to Ron’s Pizza At Riverfront Park

WHAT ELSE:  

— CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT $250 to winner – click here to enter –

— LIVE MUSIC from Noon – 11pm   – schedule of bands here –

Hamburge Wagon Burger

This Hamburger Wagon Burger didn’t last long on our plate

 

— 5k RUN/WALK at 10am – click here to register –

— FOOD AND MERCHANDISE VENDORS – -want to be a vendor? CLICK HERE –

— HAMBURGER EATING CONTEST

— KIDS GAMES and BOUNCY CASTLE

— HULA HOOP CONTEST

— JITTERBUG CONTEST

 

*****For all the event info visit: www.rockngreentomato.com/   *****

The Food Adventures Crew will see you there !  Don’t forget to comment on this article for a chance to win dinner with them  the night of the festival !

Browse through our Food Adventure photo gallery below from past 3 years of “Rock n Green Tomato Festivals.”    Also, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE !

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Here Comes the FLEURS ET VIN Festival!

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“Fleurs et Vin” Festival will feature over 400 wines for tasting !

Get ready to raise your wine glass this Sunday at Carillon Park , because Dayton’s premier wine and gourmet food festival arrives!!

That’s right, the one and only shindig known as “FLEURS ET VIN” (flowers and wine in French) takes place this weekend!

This is a Food Adventure and Wine extravaganza that you don’t want to miss.  The Big Ragu will be there in full force!

 

WHAT:  FLEURS ET VIN FESTIVAL

WHERE: At Historic Carillon Park,  1000 Carillon Blvd.  Dayton, Ohio 45409

WHEN: SUNDAY MAY 18th from 1pm – 4pm

WHY: To benefit AIDS Resoruce Center of Dayton Ohio

MUST DRINKS:  Over 400 wines available for tasting and a Beer Garden !

MUST EATS:  Local restaurants providing samples of menu specialties.

Restaurants Include: Amar India, Carvers Steaks & Chops, Central Perc European Cafe, Chappys Tap Room and Grille, Coco’s Bistro, El Meson, Figlio, Giovanni’s, Jay’s Seafood, Kohler’s Catering,  Lock 27 Brewing,  Mamma DiSalvo’s,  Neil’s Heritage House,  The Oakwood Club, Salar Restaurant and Lounge The Dock, The Deli at Webster Street & Top of the Market and Thai 9.

WHAT ELSE: Live Music during the festival by J.t. Fedrick and the Sax Groove, a silent auction that ends at 3pma and a Live Auction that starts  at 4pm 

COST: $70 in advance, $75 at the door  click HERE for more ticket info

Just in Case: Don’t drink and drive- Divine Services will be on hand if you and your car need a ride home.

Fleurs Et Vin is something you must experience as a true Daytonian.  Experience the best wines in the world, paired with Dayton’s Best Restaurant offerings.  It is for charity, which makes getting a ticket a no brainer.  Support Dayton, support the AIDS Resource Center, and join the fun at Carillon Park.  Treat yourself to a Food Adventure !

We raise our wine glasses high and say “Here’s to Fleurs Et Vin, the toast of the town this Sunday!”  See you under the big tents!

Are you a Dayton foodie?  Then join us for more fun Food Adventures by “liking”us on Facebook.

Check out our photo gallery below from last year’s event!

 

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A Toxic Food Adventure

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Usually “Toxic” means something bad.   Not in this case, Daytonians.  We know a place where Toxic means ‘heavenly.’

Are you a beer lover?  Then loosen your tie, let your hair down, and walk down the cobblestone streets of the Oregon District to the Toxic Brew Company.

For the past few months, The Food Adventure Crew has been visiting Toxic Brew Company and getting a feel for the range, style and taste of their beers.  We tried the spectrum over time, from the lighter Abby Blonde to the Pawn Pepper Ale made with hot peppers.
We didn’t go there once and get a few taste test cups and write about them.. Taste tester flights??? Come on..
Grab yourself a pint so you get the full effect of the brewers intentions.

Now you will get the full scoop after months of tough research.. uh yeah :

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Outside the Toxic Brew Company

— They brew their own beer, and they are serious about it.  Friendly brewing fanatics unite!  You can often hear high brow brewing conversations between staff, brewmasters and customers.

— Located at 431 E. Fifth Street, Hours of Operation are 3pm-12pm Tues-Sat and 1pm-11pm on Sundays

— There is no Food Menu,  (unless you count popcorn), so don’t come hungry for a Food Adventure

— Open, inviting  atmosphere.  You can usually find the front door open and people milling around inside and outside.  We also love the sawdust shuffleboard table which creates and occasional cheer.

— No wimpy beers.  What we mean, is that each beer has a strong flavor, so be warned.  Beer enthusiasts love strong beers or hoppy flavors.  If your favorite beer is Mich Ultra, please realize that Toxic Brews may be an acquired taste.

— Super-friendly Staff.  One of the most accommodating group of bartenders we have met.  Visit, after visit, after visit, they are always attentive and helpful.

 

So which beers are the best?

Iso-Heaven, Beta Brown and Vanilla IPA

Drum roll please…. here are your Toxic Brewing company “Must Drinks.”

MUST DRINKS:

 — ABBY’S CURE: A favorite toxic treat, it is simply a good beer.  Light, spicy and a kick in the alcohol department, like most of their strong brews.  Get a couple pints and feel the buzz.  We believe Abby’s cure is just what the doctor ordered for your beer fix.  This beer is actually a Belgian Tripel (strong ale) and has a special yeast strain that gives it a one of a kind flavor.

— ORANGE IMPERIAL STOUT: This flavorful, dark beer is in the style of and old Russian Stout (dark beer from roasted hops with a higher alcohol content).  Toxic Brewing Company hits the mark on this one.  We highly recommend it.  A good beer for a brisk day, or a cool evening.  Again we say, strong stuff!   About 8% alcohol for you booze hounds.

— FIFTH STREET WHEAT: The Big Ragu’s pick of the Toxic litter.  In our many stops, he found this one to be the most delicious.  This Hefewiezen (German wheat beer) is sometimes offered with a lemon infusion during the summer.  If you get a chance, try that on for size.

— ABBY BRUNETTE: The Big Ragu is a big fan of this beer.  This is beer is smooth and has hints of caramel and nut flavors.  Apparently, Abby is the Brewmaster’s wife.  It’s times like these where we say “Ain’t love grand?”

 — BETA BROWN:  The original test batch recipe, with a strong addictive flavor.  Goes down too easy, so watch yourself on this lovable middle of the road beer.  You may find yourself slurring words and telling stories with TMI.

Some of the Friendly Staff at Toxic Brew Co !

Honorable Mention:  Iso-Heaven and the Vanilla Pale Ale are worthy of  recommendation.  We will down a couple of pints of these bad boys, any day.

 

The problem with recommending our ‘must drinks’, is that the beer menu at Toxic Brewery is constantly evolving.  Some of these beers may only be offered once a year.  But that is a good thing, because the menu does not get tired or stagnant.  The ideas and beer list improvements are as fresh as the brews.

So next time you’re drinking responsibly in the Oregon District, or drinking irresponsibly with a designated driver, make sure you enter the open doors of the Toxic Brew Company and “pick your poison.”  Just do us a favor and don’t get those dinky sipper flights… Make it a pint,  Food Adventure style!

Do us another favor, join the masses on Facebook who “like” our Food Adventure page HERE.

Check out photos below and comment to let us know your favorite Toxic Brews!!!

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A Second Helping of .. KABUKI

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Fresh Salmon and Fresh Tuna at Kabuki: Test Your Food Adventure Limits

“Please, sir, I want some more.”  —Oliver Twist

Food Adventures has a new, original feature called a “Second Helping of…” 

Food Adventures already sets itself apart from the rest, because we dine at a place many times before an article materializes on Dayton Most Metro.   From time to time, we will revisit some of our favorite Miami Valley eateries, and let you know about new specialty items that are delicious, or standard fare that you “gotta try.”   This is not a recycling of an old article, but some new takes on the menu.  You can still expect the same killer “food porn” photos, and “must eats.”

This time, we dive into one of our all-time favorite Food Adventure spots.   So sit down, pull yourself to the table, and enjoy a second helping of.. KABUKI !

You may recall our original article on Kabuki Korean and Japanese Restaurant, in Centerville, if not CLICK HERE.   The restaurant continues to ‘pack em in’, and has a loyal following, like no other sushi spot in the Dayton area.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Del Sot Bibimbob: A Korean Dish

— Located at 848 S. Main St. in Centerville, the menu is mostly Japanese, with a touch of Korean specialties as well

— The secret to this restaurant’s success is fresh, delicious food.  The kitchen area and sushi bar are immaculate.  We believe that a clean environment is especially important when serving raw food.  It also shows respect for the art of sushi !

— Pay attention and save with coupon specials through email, mail and facebook!

— Warning, peak hours may become crowded in this cozy, tight dining room.

 

Kabuki is a perfect place to get out of your comfort zone and experience a true Food Adventure.   Try something new and wild.  This is the spot to do it !  We have ordered almost everything on the menu and love theses sushi rolls: Boston Roll, Playboy Roll, Mexican Roll, Rock N Roll Roll, and the Spider Roll, along with some other favorites:

 MUST EATS:

Tuna Tataki: Seared for Your Pleasure

— SHRIMP TEMPURA ROLL:  A must eat for the sushi beginner.  The roll is stuffed with cooked, fried shrimp. What’s not to love?

— DEL SOT BIBIMBOB:  From the Korean menu, this is a true Food Adventure pick.  The dish is served in a hot stone bowl.  It includes mixed vegetables& beef served over steamed rice , all topped with a fried egg.  It is served with a side of hot & spicy sauce.  Big Ragu liked it so much, he actually danced and sang a new Hanson  song “MMM Bibimbob.”

— RAW SALMON (SAKE):  This is a slice of uncooked salmon on top of rice.  Yes it is raw, but drip some soy and wasabi on it, and it melts in your mouth.  We don’t know the secret, but Kabuki has some of the tastiest salmon in town.  We just keep coming back for more.

— RAW TUNA (MAGURO): A raw piece of tuna, over a small ball of rice.  So hearty, it is almost like a piece of steak.  So full of protein, one bite will make you feel nourished and alive.  For $2.75 per piece, it is an exotic delicacy.

— ATLANTIC ROLL: A seafood lovers dream, with specialties from the ocean.  This roll is filled with spicy tuna, shrimp tempura, & avocado.   On top of the roll is snapper and wasabi sauce.   Grab a pair of chopsticks and work some magic.

Honorable Mention: Not in the mood for experimenting?  Then try the Chicken Teryaki or Katsu Chicken Meal, guaranteed to please the “meat and potato” types who love BBQ Chicken.

 

With healthy eating a concern to so many people, we will share a favorite menu item that will keep you bathing suit ready .. Wear it to the restaurant, we don’t care.

LITE BITES:

Kabuki: One of Dayton’s Best

 — TUNA TATAKI:  This ‘must eat’ is big on taste, light on calories.  It is a plate of seared, ahi tuna, splashed with a citrus vinegar sauce.  A cross between cooked and raw, this dish is a simple ‘back to the basics’ taste of sushi.  The fresh tuna is healthy and pleasing to the tastebuds, which makes it a win-win combination.

 

Looking for a great lunch or dinner option that isn’t the same old thing?  Then take advantage of the offerings at Kabuki like we do, and have yourself your own Japanese and Korean Food Adventure.  You will not be disappointed.  With a website name like EatAtKabuki.com, you know this stuff is good.

Want more good stuff from Food Adventures?  Then join the thousands following these “foodies in their forties” on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Check out our Kabuki photos below for some of the most incredible food in the Gem City.

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New Menu, New Staff at Bella Vino! **Win a $20 Gift Certificate**

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Hello Baked Brie

Up close look at the Baked Brie

Bella Vino in Springboro, isn’t your average wine store.  Sure, they have all the chardonnays, merlots, and syrahs one could dream of.  But now, they have kicked it up a notch.

Under new management, Bella Vino brought in Chef Jen Anticoli, who has introduced some dishes that are fabulous when paired with wine, or even just dining on the patio.  The Big Ragu & Crew are all about good eats outdoors.  If you are the same way, then Bella Vino will quickly become one of your favorite spots for a Food Adventure

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Bella Vino Wine Merchants is open Mon 4-10pm Tues-Thurs 11:30am -10pm, Fri and Sat 11:30am-midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.  They even have a location in West Chester.

— Perfect place for patio drinks and dining.  The spacious, outside dining area is a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.  The inside dining room is sleek and contemporary, with a capacity of 80 people.

— Up and coming chef, Jen Anticoli has revamped the menu and added her personal spin on some Italian dishes and more.

— Bella Vino has over 1400 wines to choose from, and is frequently running specials on various brands.

— Summer is bringing new events to Bella Vino, such as “Party on the Patio Nights”, with the kitchen setting up a grill outside.

— Look for more menu expansions like “Strawberry Muscato Lemonade” and Gourmet Subs

Chef Jen Anticoli

Chef Jen Anticoli of Bella Vino

 

We were impressed by the food, and it definitely satisfied our Food Adventure instincts.   Of all the menu items, The Big Ragu did have some favorites.   So let us present, without further adoo, our infamous “must eats!”

 

MUST EATS:

— GOAT CHEESE CRUSTINI:  Creamy, sweet and full of flavor, the fresh tomatoes and goat cheese combine amazingly.  The Big Ragu will go on record, that this is his favorite crustini of all-time !  The sauces and spices added make this a definite ‘must eat,’ and perfect with any wine.  The secret ingredient?   Pistachio Crumbles for the finishing touch.

— CARMEL NUT BAKED BRIE:  Served freshly baked and still steaming, this brie is a delicious starter.  Garnished with berries and nuts, drizzled with honey, and served with bread and crackers, it is a great segway for any vino ! We think you will be hard pressed to share this killer appetizer.

— BAKED POTATO PIZZA:  Flaky crust with toppings that perfectly mimics a good potato skin, this pie is filling for even the big appetites.   Made with chopped garlic, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, onions and a sour cream drizzle, we bet you can’t eat just one square.

— BLT PIZZA:  This white sauce pizza is a good twist on an old favorite using spinach instead of lettuce.  Bacon is all the rage, right?  Get your fix on this pie.  Toppings include and tomato, bacon, cheddar-jack cheese and garlic mayo.  We don’t know what kind of wine goes, with a BLT, we just eat the damn thing…..

Delicious

The BLT Pizza at Bella Vino. Click to Enlarge

We were pleasantly surprised at the food offerings at Bella Vino and look for more great things to some.  Chef Jen is starting to carve a name for herself with a style all her own.  Her unique flavors and ingredients make her a diamond in the rough of the Miami Valley’s culinary landscape.

Make sure you check out this little known secret located at 495 N. Main Street in Springboro.  Bella Vino may mean “Good Wine” in Italian, but now it can be known for its good food as well.

 

Want to learn about more good food and ‘secret’ dining spots from Food Adventures with The Big Ragu and Crew?  Then  like them on Facebook by clicking HERE !

Follow us on TWITTER here …

*** WIN A $20 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO BELLA VINO ***

To be entered, just comment below on the story, and tell us why you want the gift certificate.  One winner will be chosen at random.

Don’t forget to check out our incredible photo gallery below from our visits to Bella Vino !!
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Pete Rose & Cassano’s Team up for a Food Adventure

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Chip Cassano, Chris Cassano and Pete Rose Announce a  Promotional Partnership

The Hit King and the Pizza King were together again for a mini press conference held at the Cassano’s offices on Stroop Rd. today promoting a Food Adventure of sorts.

 

Dayton Most Metro’s own Big Ragu was on hand and even asked Pete Rose “What’s Your Favorite Toppings on a Cassano’s Pizza?”

Pete Rose’s replied with a smile,  “Pepperoni and Extra Cheese.”

 

The hit king was in town promoting his “4192: An Evening with Pete Rose LIVE” event to be held at the Fraze June 24th, 2014.  Cassano’s was also celebrating their 60th Anniversary, and giving away a corvette June 24th as well.

 

It was nice seeing Ohio icons like the Cassano family and Pete Rose, side by side.  Pete told stories of  playing baseball in Dayton in 1960, before he signed with the Reds and how  Cassano’s pizza was a favorite of his.  He is definitely no stranger to the signature thin crust and square slices.  At the press conference held Tuesday April 1st, Pete told a couple of stories about what Dayton means to him.  He also told tales of baseball, Tony Perez and his hopes for his son, Pete Jr. to someday manage the Dayton Dragons, and maybe even the Reds.  We hope so too Pete !!

****WANT TO SEE PETE ROSE LIVE or GET A CHANCE TO WIN THE CASSANO’s 60th ANNIVERSARY CORVETTE ???****

 HERE’S THE SKINNY:

New Corvette to be given away to celebrate Cassano’s 60th Anniversary

— Get tickets to the event “4192: An Evening with Pete Rose LIVE” by clicking HERE

— Get a shot at winning the Cassano’s 60th Anniversary Corvette by ordering an Xtra Large Pizza at Cassanos.

 

Thank you to Lora, Chip, Chris Cassano and Pete Rose for allowing Food Adventures and Dayton Most Metro to be a part of this announcement!!

 

You bet you will see The Big Ragu at the June 24th event at The Fraze.  In  the meantime, we will be ordering some XL Pizzas for a chance to drive away the brand new corvette !   We call this one a MUST EAT and a MUST PETE !!

Long live the Hit King and the Pizza King !!

Check out our photos below from today’s press conference in Kettering, and of course, our lunch !   “Like” Food Adventures with Big Ragu and the Crew on Facebook HERE !

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Corleone’s: A Menu You Can’t Refuse

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The Manicotti Dinner at Corleone’s is a “Must Eat” (click to enlarge)

“Some day, and that day may never come, I will call upon you to do a service for me. ” – Don Corleone “The Godfather”

Well,  The Big Ragu & Crew are here to do a service for you.  Today, we share with you a place you may not know about.  A kitchen that produces some great pizza, pasta and more.  In other words, let the Food Adventure peeps be your consigliere on this one.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Corleone’s has two Locations, one at 725 Lyons Rd. and the original at 966 Patterson Rd.

— Homemade dough everyday.  This ensures not only fresh pizzas, but tasty pasta dinners.

 

— Amazing Specialty Pizzas.  These are mafia boss of the menu.  Deluxe toppings, and themed pizzas like the Taco Pie, Greek Pie, Steak Pie will make your day.  There are many more unique creations with white or red pizza sauces. 

— Calzones and Hoagie Sandwiches are the dark horse on the menu, and will “whack” your tastebuds.

— Unique menu items that only New Yorkers typically see, like Pepperoni Rolls and Sausage Rolls. 

Great specialty pizzas like”Buffalo Chicken Pizza” at Corleone’s

— Carryout is available, and they have Delivery Service as well.

 

MUST EATS:

 — MANICOTTI:  Served piping hot , this meal is liberal on cheese and sauce.  It is absolutely delicious, and it is the Big Ragu’s favorite choice on the menu.

— TACO PIE:  Corleone’s serves a great version of taco pizza.  The fresh lettuce, olives and tomatoes make all the difference.  Send your hitmen in for one of these babies.

— BUFFALO CHICKEN PIZZA:  Tasty, tangy and even a kid pleaser.  Again a good version of a unique pizza spin.

— WINGS:  We were super surprised at how good the breaded wings were.  They are crunchy, crispy and ready for dipping in your favorite sauce.  Best of all, they are cooked all the way through !

— SPINACH CALZONE:  Served with marinara, the key is again in the fresh dough.  Filled with ricotta cheese (like a real calzone should be), it is a flavorful, filling meal.

Honorable Mention: 

The Eggplant Hoagie is a good sub, capesh?  Did we mention it is a monster?  So split one with your favorite wiseguy and see what all the fuss is about.

The Wedgie: Want a Food Adventure in a plate?  Try a Wedgie!  No it is not the “grundy” you used to give your classmates.  It is a calzone with no ricotta cheese or tomato sauce.  It is cooked and then topped with lettuce and onions.  Call it an Italian version of the mini-super burrito and fagheddaboutit.

 

Surprisingly Good Wings at Corleone’s !

One warning, if you have a large group coming to Corleone’s, you definitely want to call ahead so they are properly prepared for your group of friends or paisans.  Also, the wine and beer selections are limited, so beware if you are looking for something special to drink.

Now “youse guys got” some good direction from The Big Ragu on a little known secret.   What’s not a secret is that practically all of the pizzas we have tried, during our numerous visits have been great.  From the top your own, to the seafood pizza, it is up to you to find your own favorite.   All we can do is lead you to the good stuff.   Trust us, it’s the best pizza and pasta spot that you’ve never heard of.   It is definitely a menu you can’t refuse…

 

Want more Food Adventure fun from these 2 goombahs?  Then join other Dayton foodies and “like” The Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Make sure you check out our photo gallery from our Food Adventures to Corleone’s !

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Food Adventures Crew to Bartend at Fifth Street BrewPub

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OK, this is a MUST drink … we have a cure for your next Monday doldrums!!

Mark your calendar for  a charity event, Monday March 10th … at the Fifth Street Brewpub

Dayton Most Metro’s own Food Adventures Crew, will be tapping and pouring beers, while working the bar.

ALL of their tips will be donated to Dayton’s Ronald McDonald House Charity.

 

The Brewpub has 12 taps of craft beers.. Want to know a secret?  One  of them will be  Conway’s Irish Ale from Great Lakes Brewing Co.  A Food Adventure favorite and will be on special with $1 off pints.

 

Not only do they have beer, but the menu features soups, salads, beef on weck, Salmon BELT (bacon, egg, lettuce, tomato), saratoga chip specialties and more.  So have your own little Food Adventure on March 10th !

Helping Dayton families

 

 

Come drink, come eat, come harass The Big Ragu for a great cause !!   For more great stuff, “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on Faceboook HERE !!

 

 

Print

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

WHEN: MARCH 10th,  6pm – 10pm

WHERE: Fifth Street Brew Pub,
at 1600 E. Fifth St, Dayton Ohio

WHAT:  Food Adventure Crew are guest bartenders for a night

WHY: All tips they receive will benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dayton

WHAT ELSE:  $1 off Bumbleberry beer pints (Ragu’s Fave) and $1 off  Conaway’s Irish Ale (because we love Great Lakes’ Beers)

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Dine and SLASH with Local Filmaker Henrique Couto + ***TICKET CONTEST !!***

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Local Film Maker Henrique Couto with a Cheesesteak at Sidelines Bar & Grill

Want 2 free tickets to see a locally made, horror film, called “Haunted House on Sorority Row” ??  Then comment below on this story to be entered into the contest.  One winner will be chosen at random tomorrow at noon.

Now on with the scoop:

Food Adventures first met Henrique Couto at a Chinese Buffet in Centerville.  He was wearing pajama pants.  We saw his ukelele records in stores and heard about his local trivia shows and local concerts. We even wrote a Food Adventure story about him after we tried his homemade ginger ale – SEE HERE.  He is a local celeb, with his trademark hair, mustache and rubber banded beard.  Let’s not forget the glasses and flamboyant shirts for a style all his own.  Did we mention he is a great guy, with a witty sense of humor ?

His other directing credits are as follows:

Marty Jenkins and the Vampire bitches
Faces of Schlock
Bleeding Through
Depression the Movie
Bulldog for Christmas

Meet the Cast and join The Big Ragu for the World Premier this Friday !

Fast forward to 2013, where we attended the World Premier of Couto’s slasher film, “Babysitter Massacre.”  …Of course we bought the DVD !

 

Now, his scariest film to date “HAUNTED HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW” is having its World Premier this Friday !!

 

WHAT: Local Horror Movie “HAUNTED HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW” WORLD PREMIER

WHEN: FRIDAY FEB. 21st, 10pm

WHERE:  ENGLEWOOD CINEMA, 320 W. National Rd., Englewood, Ohio

COST: Admission is $8

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE TRAILER !!!

Henrique Couto is a Dayton native like us.  He has been interest in film making since he was a kid.  In fact, he used to sell DVD’s to fellow classmates out of his trapper keeper at school.  By the age of 16 he was formatting DVD menu catalogs that were going into Blockbuster Stores.  Now you can buy his movies online at Blockbuster.  You can also buy his titles at Hastings, Amazon.com, FYE Stores and even streaming versions on Amazon Prime.  You can also find his films at local Game Swap stores and his personal website Hen.Storeenvy.com   Henrique’s philosophy is make the films locally and sell them nationally.  He gives crowds what they want: slashers, suspense, and thrilling scenes and even nudity.   He gives his movies, descriptive, detailed concepts in the titles.  Why? Because he doesnt advertise with millions, instead he uses thousands of dollars to make and distribute his movies.  And when they are next to a box office blockbuster, he wants his movie to stand out.

Henrique is of Portuguese descent, and is a foodie as well.  His favorite Dayton spot is Siam Pad Thai, which was unfortunately closed due to weather, so we went down the street for a FOOD ADVENTURE to new sports bar SIDELINES on Wilmington Pike in Kettering.

Deep Fried Ribs? AMAZING! Click to enlarge

********* SIDELINES *********

HERE’s THE SKINNY:

— New restaurant at 4090 Wilmington Pike, with fresh recipe twists on sports bar food

— Great service.  The friendly, attentive staff  ensures a great meal.

— Lots of UNIQUE dry rubs and one-of-a-kind sauce choices for you chicken wing lovers

— The prices were decent and didnt “scare” our wallet

 

MUST EATS:

— DEEP FRIED PORK RIBS:  Oh man, oh damn .. succulent twin bones of baby rack ribs, breaded and deep fried then tossed in your fave sauce.  Are you kidding?  Nothing like it in Dayton.  People who loved BURBANK’s “Fribs” aka “Flying pigs wings” will love these things!  Sinful, yet sultry…. like The Big Ragu

— THE FRESH CUT FRENCH FRIES:  Delicious, and addicting. You have been warned !!  The fresh cut makes all the difference.. slasher !

— GRILLED SHRIMP WRAP:  A healthy choice that wont bust your waistline, yet will give you all that flavor to savor !  A tasty treat for the soul.

Grilled Shrimp Wrap from “Sidelines”: Good Stuff

— PHILLY CHEESESTEAK:  Loaded with peppers and onions, this sandwich is big and would fill  Jason Vorhees’ appetite.

— THE WINGS:  The secret here is the sauces and dry rubs.  May we recommend the “Dry Ranch Rub” or the “Salt & Vinegar Rub.”  As for sauces, our heads roll for the “Kentucky Bourbon” sauce and “Tropical Rum” sauces respectively.

— We hear the burgers are great, unfortunately this wasnt our typical Food Adventure, as we almost always try a restaurant numerous times before posting anything online.  We aren’t one plate Nate’s, one dish Trish or one Trip .. uh Trip’s … As the group Train sings “this is not a drive by..ey ey eye eye.”  Yeah, we dont do fly by articles, you deserve more.  So “cut” us some slack this once …

Sidelines restaurant was a nice surprise in a pinch.  We will definitely be back and may do a follow up “2nd helping” article.  We suggest you try the flavors and menu items you find at any other sports bar in Dayton.  Live it up!

Want more from FOOD ADVENTURES ?  Then “like” them on Facebook here.

Don’t be scared, browse our photo gallery below for pics of “Haunted House on Sorority Row” and photos from our Food Adventure !

See you on the Sidelines or at the movies !!!

BELOW is HENRIQUES top 6 horror movies of all time.  What’s your list??  Comment below !

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