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Jay's Seafood

38th Annual Cooking School Features Oregon District Chefs

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Chefs from five restaurants all located in Dayton’s historic Oregon District will share their culinary skills in “cook and dine” classes in the 38th annual AFS (American Field Service) Cooking School. Proceeds from the annual cooking school benefit the Dayton area team of AFS Intercultural Programs’ high school student exchanges. This year a portion of the money raised will go to The Dayton Foundation’s Dayton Oregon District Tragedy Fund.

The 2020 cooking series offers a sampling of the Oregon District’s diverse array of cuisine and dining options. The five cooking classes and dinners will be held from 6:30 to 9:00 pm, Mondays, February 3rd to March 9th in the Consumer Science room at Centerville High School, 500 E. Franklin St. in Centerville.

The 2020 classes are scheduled as follows:

Chef Liz Valenti

Feb. 3:  Chef Liz Valenti of Wheat Penny Oven and Bar reflects her Italian-American background growing up in Chicago and culinary training in California. The Wheat Penny menu includes a variety of entrees and pizza made with dough containing starter from a 100-year old Italian bakery in Chicago, handmade pastas served in traditional and contemporary styles, flavorful vegetable dishes, cheeses and ice creams made in-house daily.   

Feb. 10:  Chef Margot Blondet of Salar Restaurant is known for the freshest and most natural ingredients, all of which are sourced locally or made fresh, in-house every day. Salar features world fusion cuisine with strong Peruvian, French and Mediterranean influences.

Feb. 24:  Chefs Patrick & Casey Van Voorhis of Grist are newcomers to Dayton. Some of their specialties include signature breads, pasta and dishes with a variety of culinary influences. Casey and Patrick are graduates of the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY and have extensive teaching and fine-dining experience at several Michelin starred restaurants, most recently serving as co-executive chefs at Spoonbar restaurant in Healdsburg, CA.

March 2:  Chef Melissa Deaton of Dublin Pub offering distinguished Gastropub Irish fare, with a fusion of European & American influences. Chef Melissa writes and executes the renowned menus for the Pub’s monthly, four-course, themed dinner events.

March 9:  Chef Jeff Robinson and owner Amy Haverstick of Jay’s Seafood – – the historic, elegant and welcoming Oregon District landmark. Family owned for over 40 years, Jay’s features a wide variety of fresh seafood and steaks prepared with traditional and creative methods as well as house made salad dressings and desserts.

According to volunteer Eileen Baker “the AFS Cooking School’s volunteer staff gratefully appreciates not only the talent and generous participating chefs and restaurateurs, but also the support, cooperation and community spirit of the many fine Oregon District restaurants in helping to organize the 2020 classes.”

All classes combine culinary demonstrations by the chefs with hands-on participation by each student in groups of four with individualized chef supervision. Classes are casual, fun and informative. Each evening’s class includes chef demonstration and class preparation of a 3-course meal.  Chefs and their restaurants provide an amuse bouche as well as all the food for the evening. Each evening concludes with a sit-down dinner that students helped prepare, complete with fresh flowers, colorful table linens and specialty roast coffee. These classes WILL sell out, so reserve quickly! 

The cost is $55 per person, per class. Classes are limited to 20 students. Each evening’s class includes chef demonstration and class preparation of a 3-course meal.

For availability of classes and more information call or text Nell Petry at 937 469-1774 or email her at AFScooking2@gmail.com. Classes often fill quickly, however waiting lists are kept for each class in the event of cancellations. To make reservations, send payment with completed registration form to: Nell Petry, 1465 Cross Creek Circle, Kettering, OH 45429.  Space is limited to 20 students per class.  These classes are very popular, so seats fill quickly!!  Once a class is filled, a waiting list is created.  All registrations are taken on a first received, first recorded basis.

A completed registration form, with payment (checks only, made payable to Dayton AFS) must be in the possession of the coordinator to reserve a seat.  Feel free to mail or deliver your paperwork to the above address.  A box will be on the front porch for your convenience in delivering your paperwork.  Write the date and time you drop off your registration and place in the box.  Mail is collected daily.  If you have a question, you may reach me at: petrynell06@gmail.com or text 937-469-1774

For information about AFS Intercultural Programs please visit https://afs.org .

Serving Up Lunch Just For The Holiday’s

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Three restaurants who normally open their doors for dinner service only, make an exception in the month of December.  Carvers, Jay’s Seafood and Fleming all will be serving up special lunches for your holiday celebrating.  Reservations are suggested, as many diners will take advantage of these special lunches.

 

Carvers Steaks & Chops

1535 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Township
(937) 433-7099

open for lunch Mon – Friday 11:30am – 2pm through Dec 21st

A special lunch menu including Salmon Caesar salad, crab cakes, and their award winning prime rib will be offered as well as their full dinner menu will be available

Jay’s Seafood Restaurant

225 E. Sixth St, Dayton
(937) 222-2892

opens for weekday lunch Dec 5 -21 from 11:30am – 2pm

Lunch menu includes fresh fish options like wild cod, swordfish or tuna, salmon crepes, fried shrimp and a prime rib sandwich .

 

 

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

The Greene * 4432 Walnut Street
937-320-9548

Open Friday at 11:30am for lunch in December

The Friday Lunch Prix Fixe $38 per Guest and here is the menu”

STARTER choice of

WILD MUSHROOM SOUP truffle cream, thyme
FLEMING’S CHOPPED SALAD walnuts, tomato, cucumber, root vegetables, parmesan, honey-lime vinaigrette

ENTRÉE choice of

6 OZ. FILET MIGNON* served with our signature Fleming’s Potatoes
CALIFORNIA BURGER* prime beef, tomato, arugula, bacon, avocado, cheddar cheese, smoked jalapeño aioli on a challah roll served with french fries & crispy castelvetrano olives
CRAB CAKES roasted red pepper & lime butter sauce
BREAST OF CHICKEN roasted, white wine, mushroom, leek & thyme sauce CALIFORNIA POWER BOWL farro, beech mushrooms, roasted tomatoes & butternut squash, kale, pickled onions, grilled avocado, pistachio mint pesto

DESSERT choice of
KEY LIME PIE fresh key lime, graham cracker crust, chantilly whipped cream
NEW YORK CHEESECAKE classic preparation, topped with caramel & fresh citrus HOUSEMADE CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES Chef’s seasonal selection

Let’s Do Lunch – Special Holiday Hours At Carvers, Jay’s and Rue Dumaine

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One of the best things about meeting friends for lunch during this holiday season is the additional choices we have from these restaurants that have added lunch hours just for December.  From experience we suggest you may want to call for reservations!

13335531_10153518467957541_9043574519746137192_nRue Dumaine
1061 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Township
Wed, Dec 14, 21 & 28,  11am – 2pm

Menu for Dec 14th lunch:

Cauliflower Soup with caraway croutons $6.5

Dumaine ~ tender salad greens, balsamic vinaigrette, dried cranberries, sheep’s milk feta, sunflower seeds $8.5

Salad of Belgian endive, Fuji apples, watercress**, walnuts, blue cheese, Banyuls vinaigrette $10

Charcutière…pork rillette, prune jam, Dijon dollop, mound of cornichons, grilled Farmhouse bread $12

House-smoked Skuna Bay salmon & Yukon potato hash with spinach** & leeks,pan-fried farm fresh egg** $16

Grilled fresh fish (TBD), goat cheese gnocchi, Jamestown pea shoots**, roasted beet**-pickled shallot-caper relish, tarragon emulsion $16

Hill Farm chicken CORDON RUE ~ pan-seared chicken quarter, house-cured ham & Gruyere, draped with a Dijon veloute, petite green beans $16

Beef burger*, Gruyere, griddled onion, Dijon $13

Pommes frites $5

Haricot vert $5

Vanilla bean-orange tapioca pudding, winter compote $6

Buttered walnut gelato, beurre noisette madeleine $6

Flourless chocolate torte, peppermint-bittersweet chocolate ganache, crushed peppermint candy garni, peppermint anglaise $6.5

10172737_10151961334036502_1120215164_nCarvers Steaks & Chops 
1535 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Township
Mon – Fri 11:30am -2 pm   through Dec 23rd

will offer their regular menu along with some special lunch selections

 

 

jaysseafoodJay’s Seafood
225 E. Sixth St, Dayton
Mon – Fri 11:30am -2 pm   through Dec 23rd

Appetizers
Fresh Oysters* On the Half Shell………………. each $ 2.75
Shrimp—Jumbo 6/8 Gulf shrimp Large peeled………………………… each $ 4.25
Clam Chowder     Cup   $ 4                                      Bowl     $ 7
Crab Cake Pan-fried jumbo lump Maryland crabcake. Served with creamy cole slaw   $ 11
Calamari Strips  Baked with garlic butter or fried and served with red sauce            $ 10
Mozzarella Cheese Strips  With honey mustard sauce……………. $ 8
P.E.I. Mussels   Fresh Canadian Mussels steamed in white wine and garlic butter      $ 10
Crab Rangoon (3) Luscious bites of crabmeat tucked into wonton wrappers and fried to golden perfection $ 7

 

Sandwiches
Sandwiches served with chips—Substitute Fries $2.00 

Sliders (3) Kobe beef burger, salmon and tuna … $ 11
Slider Sampler   One of each… $ 11
Cod Sandwich Wild cod fillet battered and fried, served on a Kaiser roll with lettuce, tomato and tartar sauce…. $ 13
Fish Tacos  Chef’s selection of seared fish in grilled soft corn tortillas withshredded cabbage, pico de gallo, spiced lime sour cream and cilantro……. $ 11
Italian Chicken Sandwich Grilled chicken breast with pesto aoli, provolone cheese, grilled romaine and
marinated tomatoes on a baguette… $ 12
Grilled Portabella Mushroom Sandwich Portabella Mushroom, zucchini and roasted red pepper, arugula, red onions, tomatoes and goat cheese on a toasted bun…. $ 12
Lunch Entrees
Lunch entrées include a Garden Salad—For $3 substitute Jay’s Signature Spinach Salad, Caesar Salad topped with  parmesan cheese and garlic herb croutons or a cup of chowder

Jambalaya
Crayfish, duck and sausage served over rice in a lightly spiced sauce………. $ 14
Linguine ai Frutti di Mare
Linguine tossed with shrimp, scallops, mussels and chopped clams in a white
wine garlic butter sauce……………………………………………………………………. $ 15
Bourbon Spiced Salmon
Fresh Atlantic salmon lightly blackened and served on horseradish mashed
potatoes with our house made New Orleans style bourbon sauce………….. $ 16
Grilled Diver Scallops
Grilled with ginger soy sauce and a touch of scotch with your choice of  potato
or vegetable…………………………………………………………………………………… $ 21
Greek-Style Swordfish
Fresh swordfish baked with a lemon, caper basil sauce served on seasoned
spinach with crumbled Feta Cheese………………………………………………….. $ 17
Fried Shrimp (5)
….. From the southern Gulf of Mexico. Served with your choice of red skin
potatoes or vegetable…………………………………………………………………….. $ 15
Salads
Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad……………………….. $ 16
Blackened Chicken Caesar Salad………………………. $ 14

Fresh Fish—Chargrilled, Blackened or Baked
Choice of roasted redskin potatoes or vegetable

Tuna*            $ 15
Swordfish      $ 16
Wild Cod        $ 13
Salmon           $ 15

Happy Hour Sliders at Jay’s Seafood A Hit!

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jaysslidersOne of Dayton’s best deals is also one of its best kept secrets: happy hour at Jay’s Seafood on Sixth Street in the Oregon District. Introduced over the summer to entice more early evening guests, happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 5 – 6:30pm  and features $4 domestic craft beers, $3 domestics, $4 house wines, $4 well drinks, $6 martinis, and 25% off all appetizers.
But the real gems of this new program are the sliders, small burger sandwiches served two at a time. “Small” is relative, though — together, any two of the sliders equal to more than a normal-sized burger. I went in on an empty stomach and couldn’t finish the second slider on my plate. There are three kinds: kobe beef with white cheddar is the most popular, and tuna and salmon are available as well. An order of sliders is just $5, or for $8 you can get a sampler plate with one of all three varieties.

sliders
“There’s been a really good response to the new sliders,” owner Amy Haverstick said of the tuna and salmon, which were added last month alongside the popular beef offering. “One of our chefs has been with us for 34 years, and another has been here for 31. We sat down together and they came up with the happy hour menu items. We’ve gotten great compliments on them all.”

Jay’s also offers a monthly 3 course meal deal  and here’s what’s on the menu for October for $27:

First Course
Beef Barley Soup -or- Herbed Ghost Pepper Créme dressing on grilled Romaine with roasted beets and walnuts

Second Course
Pumpkin Seed-Crusted Salmon with a spicy pumpkin curry sauce served with roasted redskin potatoes or vegetable du jour  -or-    Pan Seared New York Strip steak with au gratin potatoes and herb butter

Third Course
Almond Pear Tar  -or-  Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate Ganache

Jay’s is also know for their quarterly wine luncheons, and there’s one coming up this Saturday:

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This historic bar dates back to the 1870’s, when it was Ritty’s Pony House.

Italian Wine Luncheon, October 10, 2015 12:30 pm

With Guest Chef Michael Tenore and
Wines with Michael Freeman

Linguine Al Frutti Di Mare
2012 Fiona Di Avellino

Caprese Salad
2012 Greco Di Tufo

Wild Boar Boneless Chop with Roasted Vegetables And Polenta
2012 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere Etna Rosso Calderarra Sottana

Butter Poached Beef Tenderloin with Mushroom Ragu and Truffle Fries
2010 Ciacci Piccolomini Brunello

Almond Cake
2005 Lucignano Vin Santo

For more information about Jay’s Seafood or to make reservations call 937-222-2892.

The Top 25 Soups of Dayton

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Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup from Fresco – Click to Enlarge

As the weather turns colder, nothing warms the soul like a good bowl of soup.  Our DaytonMostMetro Food Adventures crew, Chef House, The King, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu, have compiled our list  of  Dayton’s Best Soups.  From the first steaming spoonful, to that little bit of liquid left in the bottom, these are the best bowls of chow that the Miami Valley has to offer.  So, all you serious foodies sit back, get some crackers if need be, and check out our list of MUST EAT soups.

 

In no particular order, here they are…

DAYTON’S TOP 25 SOUPS

 

1) THE JUMBALAYA at BUCKIN’ DONKEY GRILLE:  For 15 years, owner Sean McKown has perfected his Jumbalaya recipe.  He tested it on friends and family, and the end product is a culmination of those efforts.  The result is a masterpiece in a cup.  Filled with sausage and seafood, it has just the right amount of tangy flavor and heat.  We squirt some hot sauce on this bad boy and go to town..

 

2) CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP from FRESCO: Homemade chicken broth from scratch.  Fall off the bone chicken pieces, vegetables tortilla strips and a dollop of sour cream on top.  This is one of those moments where you lose yourself in a heavenly bliss.  This is the best chicken tortilla soup we have ever eaten, made by the best chef in Dayton, Jenn DiSanto.  This soup is Chef House’s favorite !

 

“The Shrimp and Pork Soup” at Linh’s Bistro is Pho-nomenal !

3) SALMON BISQUE at SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD: Creamy, with fresh salmon chunks, this rich soup is a crowd pleaser.  We can’t think of a better soup on a crisp cold day.   The fresh thyme, dill and other spices, finish the flavor, making this soup one of our favorites.  We already are in love with many of Sweeney’s appetizers, now we have another gem added to the list.

 

4) THE LOBSTER BISQUE from DELI at WEBSTER ST. & TOP OF THE MARKET: Served piping hot in a generous bowl, we were blown away by the lobster flavor balance with the creaminess of the bisque.  The soup is absolutely delicious, and very filling.  Congrats to the Deli on Webster & Top of the Market for staying true to the elegance of this soup,yet putting a hearty, delicious spin on it.  This is one of The Big Ragu’s favorites !

 

5) THE SHRIMP and PORK SOUP at LINH’s BISTRO:  Welcome to the enormous bowl world of the “Pho Soups” offered at Linh’s Bistro.  This meal sized soup contains broth, shaved pork and pieces of shrimp.   Sure you can get it with clear rice noodles, but we prefer this Vietnamese soup with the egg noodle option (#34 on the menu). Vegetables and scallions also line the bowl, but that’s not all.  The soup is served with a side plate of jalapenos, bean sprouts cilantro and lime.  Hand pull some cilantro and dump the rest of the side items into the bowl.  This soup defines the words Food Adventure.

 

The Woodhouse Chili at Archer’s Tavern: A good story behind it

6)  THE CABBAGE ROLL SOUP from VOLTZY’s ROOT BEER STAND: The best soup in a root beer stand in the United States.  Voltzy homemakes this stuff with cabbage, tomatoes, rice and his signature burger meat.  In his words, it is so delicious, it will make you sing “Touch me in the Morning.”  Cabbage rolls not your style? Then try his almost equally delicious “Cream of Vandalia Onion Soup.”  Yes, Vandalia like the city.. Voltzy is nuts.

 

7) THE POTATO SOUP at DOUBLEDAY’S GRILL & TAVERN: In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one shines.  This soup has wowed Dayton crowds for decades, and has somewhat of a cult following.  Doubleday’s large menu makes this a perfect starter to a great meal.  The rich, creamy flavor is a great warm up, for a snowy day.

 

8) THE NEW ORLEANS STYLE GUMBO at JIMMIES LADDER 11:  Hearty, rich and just the right spiciness, this soup is one of those “OMG” moments when you take a bite.  Owner Jimmie Brandell is no stranger to soups, having cooked at one of the iconic “Upper Krust” locations for years.  He hones his craft, and has hit the mark on this one.  Order a bowl and wake up your taste buds.  Goes perfect with their craft beer selections !

 

 

The Warm Goodness of North China’s “Sizzling Rice Soup”

9) THE CHILI AT ARCHER’S TAVERN: Now here is a good story.  Every year, Archer’s holds a chili cookoff, and the winning chili goes on the menu for a year.  All proceeds from the contest go to the Centerville High School’s Culinary Arts Program!  The result is an amazing chili and a charitable donation!  The current “Woodhouse Chili” is made with fire roasted tomatoes and jalapenos.  It is topped with cheese and Fritos.  Probably the spiciest of the delicious soups on our list.  That’s why it is “The King’s” favorite on the list.

 

10) THE CLAM CHOWDER AT BULLWINKLE’S:  Clam Chowder at a rib place?  The answer is yes, young Jedi.  This soup is homemade and downright addicting.  Chunks of clams in a mix of potatoes and cream sauce make this one of our “Must Eats.”  Not many people know about this soup, but now you do.  We are not responsible for any addictions.  Make sure you start your meal here with this savory favorite.

 

11) THE SIZZLING RICE SOUP at NORTH CHINA:  This masterpiece is actually a meal sized bowl for 2 as listed on the menu.  But sometimes, we get a wild hair, and order this as a meal.  Sure you can get this soup as an appetizer, but who wants to share something this good?  The flavor is a perfect balance of vegetables and rice in a broth flavored with a hint of salt.  In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one can’t be ignored.  They have another mega soup that almost made our list, the “House Noodle Soup” is a must eat too!

 

The Lobster Bisque at the Deli at Webster Street is delicious

12) CHICKEN GUMBO from DISALVO’S DELI: Another homemade soup from scratch.  Perfectly carved, generous chicken pieces, line a delicately light broth.  The bowl is filled with a treasure trove of vegetables and tremendous flavor.  Chef Ronnie DiSalvo takes pride in his food, and this is another example of his incredible creations.  It is made with love from the heart, straight to your mouth!

 

13) THE MUSHROOM BISQUE at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: Vegetarians  rejoice!  This Dayton soup is for you.  A fresh, home made delicious recipe means a warm feeling in every spoonful.  The taste of the fresh mushrooms is incredible.  Christopher’s thrives on making quality, homemade soups, and this choice is the star.  Check it out and pair it with one of their delicious sandwiches.

 

14) THE TURTLE SOUP at THE AMBER ROSE: This soup is exotic, thick and hearty.  We absolutely love Amber Rose’s spin on this old school favorite.  We aren’t sure how traditional it is, but it is beyond good.  This is one of those things that you eat and immediately want more.  Try it for yourself as an appetizer to an Eastern European meal.

 

15) THE WILD MUSHROOM SOUP FROM HAWTHORNE GRILL: It is pure comfort in a bowl.  The soup is creamy, bold and flavorful.  Hawthorne Grill puts out some great dishes, and this is one you need to get your hands on.  This weather is the perfect time to try this unique, homemade item.

“The Pickle Soup” at Blind Bob’s is a Dayton Original

 

16) THE PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S: Don’t be fooled by the sound of it, this is one of the best soups in Dayton.  The flavor isn’t sharp, it is surprisingly level.  If you like cream of broccoli soup, this is an even better spin on it.  We congratulate Blind Bob’s for not only the uniqueness, but for the amazing taste.  This is a great warm up right before you try one of their burger selections!

 

17) DUBLIN PUB’S “WORLD FAMOUS POTATO SOUP”: It must be world famous, because it is downright incredible.  It is rich, filling and sinful.  We suggest getting it in the Sourdough bowl and add cheese and bacon on it.  We also recommend taking a nap after you eat it.  This soup is Hungry Jax’s top pick!

 

18) CREAMY CHICKEN SOUP at CHINA COTTAGE:  This is a house specialty, and we have never seen a creamy chicken soup offered at a Chinese restaurant other than here.  There is good reason.  No one else’s chicken soup could compare.  It is a deliciously light cream soup that cleanses the pallet and readies your taste buds for those spicy dishes made from Chef Tiger Wang.  This soup is definitely a Dayton Original.

 

19) THE GUINNESS ONION SOUP AT NICK’S RESTAURANT:  Always made from scratch buy their “soup nazi.”  This soup is served in a unique bowl, with a mound of cheese and few gigantic croutons.  But what hit us most is the rich flavor.   Hot broth dripping down your chin, as you swallow some of the gooey cheese.  Take a spoonful and you will see why this restaurant is the pride of Xenia.

 

“The Chicken Gumbo” at DiSalvo’s Deli. You wont see this online anywhere else, we got the scoop !

20)  THE HOT AND SOUR SOUP at YOUNG CHOW:  Yes , it made the list because it is that good.  And guess what else, the price is right.  We scald ourselves every time, because we cant wait to get into this soup’s shredded goodness.  A perfect balance of tofu, pepper and pork, this hot and sour soup is fantastic.  We looked at your fortune cookie, it says you need to go to Young Chow.

 

21) HOMEMADE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP from ALL SOUPED UP:  The 2nd Street market has some tremendous food shops.  In the middle of the market, “All Souped Up” is impressing the masses with creations like their Chicken Noodle Soup.  Homemade noodles, pieces of delicate chicken, and a small balance of vegetables make this soup.  It tastes like something your mom or grandmother would make.   It is fun to take a seat at the market and enjoy this soup and get lost in the goodness.

 

 22) THE COCONUT SOUP at SIAM PAD THAI: Another exotic choice on this list.  Cherry tomatoes, lime juice and mushrooms highlight the ingredients in this soup.  The tangy, light flavor make this soup the most refreshing on our list.  If you have not been to Siam Pad Thai, we suggest you pair it with one of their pad thai dishes, or specialty sushi rolls. We promise you will be craving this soup in no time.

 

23) THE GUMBO at RUE DUMAINE:  This is a no brainer.  Hello, the owner/Chef Anne Kearney studied under Food Netwoork superstar, Emeril Lagasse.  Needless to say, when it comes to New Orleans’ flavors, she knows what she is doing.  This award winning chef has a menu unparalleled n Dayton.  We have found the perfect start to a meal at Rue Dumaine.

 

The Guinness Onion Soup at Nick’s Restaurant in Xenia is sinfully gooey

 

24) THE CLAM CHOWDER at JAY’S SEAFOOD:  When a soup is a Dayton icon and a Dayton staple for decades, it has to make the list.  Whether you are 8 years old, or 80, people love this soup and have fond memories associated with it.  The creamy broth, the chunks of fresh clams, and the perfect dash of pepper make this soup.  Cracker sor not, you are in for a treat when you sit down for a cup or bowl of this deliciousness… so go for the bowl.

 

25) TEQUILA CHILI at LUCKY’S TAPROOM:  Unique blast of flavor from the kitchen at Lucky’s.  Owner Andrew Trick has developed an underground mass following of his terrific food, and this chili is a highlight on the menu.  They offer a regular or vegetarian option.  Recommendation: There is no better pairing on this list than the Tequila Chili and one of Lucky’s numerous craft beers.  So go to Lucky’s, thumb through the beer booklet, pick one out, and thank us later.

 

That’s it, that’s our list !  What did we miss?  Do you agree or disagree with our choices ??  Please comment below and tell us your thoughts.

Meanwhile, check out our incredible photo gallery of Dayton’s best soups, below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !

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Dayton Food Trivia, Rumors & Secrets You Don’t Know

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“Read my lips, I want a damn steak from the Pine Club !”

Today we release some secrets, and Dayton Dining will never be the same again.  Call it  “Dayton Babylon: Little known trivia relating to Dayton Food and Restaurants.”

Sit back and enjoy, as Food Adventures gives you our favorite foodie trivia of the Miami Valley:

1) THE INVENTOR OF MARION’S PIZZA USED TO BE AN EMPLOYEE OF CASSANO’S:
Yes it is true.  Marion Glass was once an employee of Cassanos.   After leaving, he opened up a sandwich shop, then later his own pizza place.

 

2) IN 1988, THE PINE CLUB MADE VICE PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH SR. WAIT 45 MINUTES FOR A TABLE:
Oh, this happened alright.  As the story goes, the Vice Prez was forced to wait in his limo until the table was ready.  That’s one popular steakhouse !

 

3) HOUDINI ESCAPES FROM A BARREL OF DAYTON BEER:
The date was December 11th,  1916.  The place was at Keith’s Theater downtown, near E. Ludlow Street.  Harry Houdini performed the Chinese Water Torture trick with a Dayton twist.  He escaped from a 60 gallon barrel filled with Olt’s Beer, a Dayton brewed lager.  Maybe Dayton Most Metro can do something similar with Big Ragu on their Brew Tours

 

Houdini Escaped From Inside a Barrel of Dayton Brewed Beer in 3 minutes

4) TOTENKO SERVES ROACHES TO FOOD CRITIC: 
In the late 1970’s, Dayton Daily News Food Critic Ann Heller was writing one of her first articles on the Asian restaurant near the Dayton Mall called “Totenko.”   When they served her meal, she noticed there were dead roaches in the food on her plate.  The restaurant closed for a few days with the intent to re-open, but it never did.  The business would later become Chi Chi’s on State Route 725.

 

5) THE WRIGHT BROTHERS WERE FOODIES WHO HOSTED HOLIDAY DINNER PARTIES:
The Wright Brothers were known for hosting extravagant dinners at their homes each holiday.  They would invite friends and family for these tremendous feasts.  Nothing like the food served by today’s airlines…

 

6) IN 1842,  FAMOUS ENGLISH AUTHOR, CHARLES DICKENS, VISITED THE GOLDEN LAMB WEARING A BEAVER HAT AND COMPLAINED BECAUSE THE HOTEL DID NOT SERVE ALCOHOL. 
Evidently, he asked for some brandy and was refused due to it being a “temperance hotel” (no alcohol).  He even wrote a pissed off passage in his American memoirs about the experience.  Sorry Charlie …

 

7) MIKESELLS IS THE OLDEST POTATO CHIP FACTORY IN THE UNITED STATES AND THE WRIGHT BROTHERS HELPED:
Dayton is home to the oldest potato chip company in the USA, 104 years old and still counting! The kettle cooked Mikesells are pretty much the same chips DW Mikesell peddled in 1910.  Speaking of which, when he first starting delivering chips by bicycle, his bike needed repair.  The Wright Brother’s bicycle company came to the rescue and DW Mikesell was back delivering chips in no time !

 

8) THAI 9 USED TO BE A PEANUT FACTORY:
Love the spacious dining room with the wooden floors and upstairs area?  That’s because the place used to be a peanut factory.  That’s what we were told by management when the restaurant first opened.

 

Charles Dickens Normally Doesnt ask to Drink Brandy in a Beaver Hat, But When He Does, it is at The Golden Lamb

9) ESTHER PRICE CANDIES USES LOCALLY PRODUCED MILK AND BUTTER IN ALL OF THEIR CANDIES:
How about that, Esther Price was being organic and eating local, before it was cool.  You go girl.  No wonder we love these chocolates so much!  Get on with your bad, creamy self.

 

 

 

10) THE BAR AT JAY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE WAS MADE IN 1882 for JAMES RITTY’S PONY EXPRESS RESTAURANT IN DAYTON:
If you have had a beer or cocktail at the Jay’s Seafood bar, then you have experienced a piece of Dayton history.  This huge mahogany bar was made from 5400 pounds of wood.  That makes it the coolest bar in town … bar none.

 

11) IN 1970, PONDEROSA APPOINTED DAYTONIAN JERRY OFFICE to CEO.   HE GREW COMPANY REVENUE FROM $42 MILLION to $490 MILLION in the 1980’s:
Oh yes, wide ties, and aerobics with leg warmers couldn’t stop Jerry from bringing the supreme salad buffet to America!  Check him out in this 1984 Ponderosa Commerical.

 

The owners of Pizza Queen dumped anchovies for deep fried tilapia

El Meson used to be Pizza Queen International. Click to Enlarge.

12) THE BAR AT SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE IS THE OLD BAR FROM TEQUILA WILLIES BY THE DAYTON MALL:
A little known fact is that this decorative bar, now at Sweeney’s, was the bar at the Tequila Willies Restaurant near the Dayton Mall.  The story goes, the previous tenant at Sweeney’s got it at auction and had it installed.

 

13) THE OWNERS OF PIZZA QUEEN CLOSED THEIR STORE TO OPEN THEIR DREAM RESTAURANT, EL MESON: 
Yes, The Castro family decided to dump pizza toppings for tapas.  Some Daytonians might have been disappointed at first, but now El Meson is a staple for bringing exotic South American eats to the Miami Valley.

 

14) THE HOT HEAD BURRITO FRANCHISES STARTED IN DAYTON:
Cynthia Wiley and Raymond Wiley from Kettering came up with the concept, and opened their first store in 2007.  It has been a hot commodity since, and they haven’t let it go to their “heads.”

 

15) THE OLDEST ACTIVE CHINESE RESTAURANT IN DAYTON is CHOP SUEY CARRYOUT:
Since 1973, this oldest active Chinese Restaurant in the Dayton area has been slinging New York style stir fry and Cantonese cuisine.  Try the Chop Suey, it will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.

 

16) THE PULL TAB CAN and POP TOP CAN WERE INVENTED BY DAYTON INVENTOR,  ERMAL FRAZE:
Ermal’s company, Dayton Reliable Tool Company started making his invention in 1959.  When  people worried about the sharp edges of the pull tab, he then invented the pop top on today’s cans in 1977.   Think of all the beer buzzes and caffeine fixes he made possible.  He is obviously the namesake for Fraze Pavillion and the tribute in Warped Wing’s Ermal Beer.

 

Pull tab - thanks Mr Fraze

The pull tab was invented by Ermal Fraze of Dayton

17) DAYTON WAS THE 2nd U.S. CITY TO IMPLEMENT THE FOOD STAMPS PROGRAM:
Dayton takes care of it’s impoverished residents.

 

18) INVENTOR OF THE ICE CREAM SCOOP WITH ANTIFREEZE INSIDE WAS THE OWNER OF THE RED WING ICE CREAM COMPANY IN DAYTON:
Ever use one of those ice cream scoops with antifreeze in it, so the hard ice cream is easy to scoop?  According to the owner’s daughter, that scoop was invented in Dayton.  Red Wing Ice Cream used to be located near the arcade. Now you know the “scoop.”

 

19) FOOD NETWORK CHEF MING TSAI’S FAMILY USED TO RUN A RESTAURANT IN THE 1970’s CALLED “THE MANDARIN KITCHEN”:
This restaurant was a pioneer in bringing gourmet Asian Food to Dayton.  The Mandarin Kitchen had a cult following.  Our memories include the restaurant having this amazing aroma throughout the dining room.

 

20) THE HAMBURGER WAGON IN MIAMISBURG STARTED BECAUSE OF THE GREAT DAYTON FLOOD OF 1913:
Sherman “Cocky” Porter served his own recipe of hamburgers to the victims of the flood out of a wagon.  They were served with no condiments, just pickle, onion, salt and pepper.  101 years later, the wagon is still a Miamisburg and Dayton icon, and the recipe is still the same.

 

Orville at a dinner party

“Ain’t No Party Like a Wright Brothers Party, cuz a Wright Brother’s Party Don’t Stop “

21) CULP’S CAFE IN THE ARCADE WAS THE FIRST DAYTON RESTAURANT TO HAVE AIR CONDITIONING:
People like the sweaty Big Ragu appreciated this.  The restaurants hayday was in the 1940’s when they served 5,000 customers a day.  Yes, we said each day.  The “new” Culp’s Cafe is in Historic Carrillon Park.  It is also a ‘cool’ place to hang out ..

 

22) ORVILLE WRIGHT USED TO TEACH HIS NIECES AND NEPHEWS HOW TO MAKE FUDGE AND HARD CANDY:
Nothing like keeping the kids occupied with a little foodie fun.  If things had went differently, he could have been Dayton’s version of Willy Wonka !

 

23) BRIXX ICE COMPANY IS NAMED BECAUSE THE BUILDING WAS ACTUALLY AN ICE COMPANY THAT SUPPLIED DAYTON IN THE LATE 1800’s:
The restaurant across from the Dayton Dragon’s stadium, used to be an ice company that supplied most of Dayton with ice.  They were singing “Ice, Ice, Baby” back in the day!

 

 24) ICE CUBE TRAYS AND FREON REFRIGERANT WERE BOTH DAYTON INVENTIONS.
Ice cube trays were invented in 1959 by Arthur Frei, while Freon Refrigerant was invented by Thomas Midgley Jr. in 1928.

 

Ice Cube Tray - invented in Dayton

Bet Ya Didnt Know That the Ice Cube Tray Was Invented in Dayton…

25) THE TROPICS, AN ICONIC RESTAURANT ON NORTH MAIN STREET, BROUGHT IN CHEFS FROM CHICAGO.
Now we know how they made their one of a kind cuisine.  Luring “windy city chefs” in with lucrative deals.  This restaurant seated 700 people at it’s peak during the 60’s and 70’s.  At that time it was one of America’s top rated restaurants.

 

That’s it, thats the list .. hope you found some fun facts ,a and interesting conversation pieces you may not have known.  Dayton has a great history of food, and now you know a little more about it!

Did you like our story on Dayton Food Trivia?  Then make sure you “like” Food Adventures with Big Ragu and the Crew on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE !!

Check out the gallery below of funny photos relating to Dayton food trivia !

 

 

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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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Fleurs Et Vin: A Great Success at Carrillon Park

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Each Guest Received Souvenir Glasses

Did you miss it?  Endless wine tasting and all the food samplings you wanted were featured at the 2013 Fleurs et Vin Festival held at Carillon Park on May 19th.  The Big Ragu was on hand with Dayton Most Metro’s staff, greeting the massive crowds and sample the various offerings.  It was a Food Adventure paradise in the heart of Dayton, and a must eat on our list of events.

If you were not able to make it to this annual benefit for the AIDS Resource Center Ohio, then check out our recap, below.

Here’s the Skinny:

— FLEURS ET VIN is Dayton’s Premier Wine and Gourmet Food Festival, typically held each year on a Sunday in May from 1-4pm under the tents at Carrillon Historical Park.  It is an all-you-want tasting event with a loyal following.

— ALL of the food and wine was donated by locally owned restaurants, allowing 100% of the proceeds to benefit AIDS Resource Center of Dayton.  A Food Adventure with a cause

— Admission price allowed you access to over 400 wines from around the world and taste menu samples from 20 local restaurants, along with a Belgian Beer Garden area !

— Live and Silent Auction areas allowed even more funds to be raised for this worthy cause that focuses of prevention and education about AIDS, along with service programs that help those in need with HIV/AIDS.

— Live music filled the air and added to the warm ambiance.

With so many good wines and so much good food, below are our picks for the best of the best from this spectacular event!

Crab Rangoon from Thai 9.  Our Favorite Rangoon in Dayton.

OUR FAVORITES  (THE FOOD):

Thai 9’s Crab Rangoon and Chicken with Rice:  In our opinion, the best crab rangoon in the Dayton area were these incredible samples from Thai9.  Stuffed full and deep, and served with a sweet side of Thai sauce, we found ourselves returning to this line often.  The Thai chicken dish was also incredible at this station.  It was a Thai pepper chicken, served in a brown, curry house sauce over a bed of white rice.  We told them we loved it, but our mouths were so full that they couldn’t understand us.

The Dock’s Crab Cakes:  Slowly seared on their portable flat top grill, these were flavorful, hand-packed circles of love.  The sauce that topped the crab cakes was the secret ingredient that kept us coming back for more.  The staff of The Dock probably wanted to file a restraining order against us for hanging out by their grill as much as we did.  We could not resist seconds of these scrumptious bites of crab heaven.

Hawthorn Grill’s  Sorbet and Strawberry ShortCake: All of the desserts at Hawthorn Grill are homemade by Chef Candace and her staff.   Her sorbet was a perfect, refreshing break during this hot event.  The bite size piece of cake, topped with a strawberry sauce also hit the spot.

Scratch Catering’s Beef Brisket and Carmelized Onion Bruschetta:  When doesn’t Chef Matt Hayden please the hungry crowds?  This delicious, slow-cooked sampling was just as pleasing to the eye, as it was to our taste buds.  The hits from Scratch Catering just keep on coming ….

OUR FAVORITES (THE WINES):

Canella Blood Orange Mimosa:  Talk about refreshing!   This tasty, bottled mimosa was the perfect drink, on this hot day.  The server at this booth had to be tired of us by the end of the event.   Probably our favorite offering from the Vintage Wine Distributor.  This Italian wine cocktail is made from grape wine and the juice and pulp of blood oranges from Sicily.

Heron Chardonnay:  A crisp, white wine made from 22 year old grape vines.  The winery is a female owned, family vineyard run by Laely Heron.   One of the few American women who made wine in France, Heron’s products are also produced in California.

Spreitzer Riesling 101:  This German Riesling comes from a winery owned by two brothers who have been honing their craft since 1997.  It was a cold, refreshing sip of sparkling goodness in the warm weather.

The Belgian Beer Garden: Although this was a wine festival, Heidelberg Distributing distracted us with some great beer selections.  Food Adventures enjoyed a couple of  Stella Artois beers in a souvenir pint.  The Big Ragu went for some Hoegaarden beer and an Ommegang Witte Beer.

All in all, this is Dayton’s “Wine me and dine me” Festival.  We loved being a part of a wonderful event, that supported a locally based AIDS charity.  Good local food and world class wines, what more could one ask for?   So let us end this Food Adventure, by raising our glass with a toast.. “Whether you love Merlot or Chardonnay, here’s to seeing you at Fleurs et Vin, next May!!”

For more wine, and no whine, visit Food Adventures on Facebook and “like” them by clicking HERE !

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Jazz Spotlight: WDPS-FM + Upcoming Jazz Feb. 13-26

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Happy February 13th; Jazz saxophonist Wardell “the thin man” Gray was born on this day in 1921, he was a major contributor to one of the great periods of jazz creativity that ushered in modern jazz. Check out Wikipeda at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wardell_Gray for more information.

wdpsJazz Spotlight: WDPS-FM (Support our local Jazz Educators)

WDPS-FM is Dayton’s only jazz radio station. A non-commercial radio station; however, they do accept underwriting. They broadcast from the new David H. Ponitz Career Technology Center in downtown Dayton. The station is staffed by students and the following volunteers: Clay “The Cooker” Collins, Paul and Patti Gehred, Charles “The Ice Man” Stone, Kyle Fisk and Amanda Romero, Slammin’ Steve Wilson, Clifford Darrett, Jim Woodford, Mike Reisz, George Balog, Jazz Cat & Deb, ChrisSmith and program manager Chris “Hippie” Hartley.

(From Ken Kreitzer, communications team leader and station manager):

4 years ago as we were preparing to move to our new studios at the David H. Ponitz career technology center. We decided to make a change in the format of the district’s radio station. When exploring the radio dial in Dayton I found that there was an underserved group of listeners; Jazz was just not getting its due in Dayton radio.

I made the announcement that The Dayton Public Schools’ radio station would become “All Jazz All the Time.” To begin to promote the new format I sought the advice of two people, Ron Gable of Jazz Advocate and Clay “The Cooker” Collins. After our first meeting we formed a partnership that i feel has benefited the Dayton Schools, Jazz Advocate and the local Dayton Jazz Scene. That partnership has sprouted many projects including, work with the Gabriel Foundation, hundreds of hours of on air promotion of local jazz events, free Jazz Listener Appreciation Concerts and much more.

One of the most noted outgrowths of that initial meeting is Clay “The Cooker” Collins being back on the radio in Dayton! Clay is an incredible talent who volunteers to be on the air each weekday and assist with the training of our students in radio broadcasting. Just the ability to interact with someone of his caliber and experience is a tremendous advantage for Dayton students. At the end of the day WDPS is still a teaching tool of the Dayton Public Schools. Students in The Radio & Television Broadcasting Class at Ponitz work on all aspects of running the radio station and web stream. From on air talent, to spot production, to preparing the broadcast logs. It is all about the students! Giving them exposure to Jazz is a great thing! They come to us thinking they will not like Jazz and leave our program with jazz favorites and a bit of knowledge of the jazz greats.

I encourage everyone to listen to WDPS-FM 89.5 Monday through Friday from 9:15 until 4:30 and 24 hours a day on WDPSFM.com.

Jazz Calendar

Here are some (not all) of the upcoming jazz events for the next couple of weeks:

Wednesday, February 13 – Jazz Central presents Blue Wednesday with Jack & Joe Waters and you can Swing Dance with Lizz & Rex Review at the Dayton Event Connection.

Thursday February 14 – James & Moore is at C’est Tout Bistro in Oakwood and CityFolk presents Grace Kelly at Gilly’s inDayton.

Friday February 15 – The Microcosm Trio is at Season’s Bistro & Grille in Springfield and the Classic Jazz Stompers are at Jay’s Seafood in Dayton.

Saturday February 16 – Ron Jones Quartet is at Cincinnati Public Library Atrium and Dave Bixler Quartet is at the Blue Wisp inCincinnati.

Sunday February 17 – the Jazz Education Connection Jazz Jam will be held at Jimmy’s Ladder 11 and the Jam Session w/ Kenny Baccus continues at Jazz Central.

Monday February 18 – Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra is at the Clintonville Woman’s Club in Columbus and the John Taylor Trio is at the Brio Tuscan Grille in Beavercreek.

Tuesday February 19 – the Hot Club of Detroit is at the University of Dayton Boll Theatre and the Part St. Tavern Jazz Jam continues in Columbus.

Wednesday February 20 – Todd Hepburn is at Arnold’s Bar & Grill and the Blue Wisp Big Band is at the Wisp both in Cincinnati.

Thursday February 21 – the Gererations Big Band returns to Jazz Central in Dayton and Jazz Night with Mike Teckenbrock Trio is at Spinoza’s in Beavercreek.

Friday February 22 – Shawn Stanley Trio is at Carvers Steaks & Chops in Centerville, OH and Marc Fields New Quintet are at the Thompson House in Newport, Ky.

Saturday February 23 – Boudin’s Bistro & Jazz Club presents the Bobby Floyd Trio and Andrew Waters – Smooth Jazz is at the Eastern Palace Restaurant both in Columbus.

Sunday February 24 – Phil DeGreg Trio is at the MidPointe Library in Middletown and theres at Jazz Jam at Victory’s inColumbus..

Monday February 25 – a Jazz Jam hosted by Sandy Suskind Quartet is at the Blue Wisp in Cincinnati and Mark Flugge, Derek Dicenzo & Jimmy Castoe are at Due Amici in Columbus.

Tuesday February 26 – Ed Moss & the Society Jazz Orchestra are at the Schwartz Point Jazz Club and Jazz Cab is at The Greenwich both in Cincinnati.

More info and jazz listings can be found at JazzAdvocate.com

Twas the Night Before Christmas, What Dayton Restaurants Will Be Open?

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Take a much-needed break from the last-minute present-wrapping and feast-prepping, and let the area’s best chefs create the main culinary event for you and your loved ones. Below, are our top picks for dining out on Christmas Eve and even, a few notable spots opening up their doors on Christmas Day.  We also suggest you call for reservations, as many places will be booked up.

Dayton Restaurants Open Christmas Eve

 

Carvers Steaks & Chops
1535 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton, OH 45459
(937) 433-7099
Noon to 7pm
Flemings  Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
4432 Walnut Street, Dayton, OH 45440
(937) 320-9548
5 – 10pm

 

C’est Tout Bistro
2600 Far Hills Avenue, Kettering
(937) 298-0022
5 -10pm
Champps Americana 
7880 Washington Village Drive, Washington Twp.
(937) 433-2333
Noon to 10 pm

 

Giuliano, An Anticoli Tavern
67 S. Main Street, Miamisburg
(937) 859-3000
4 -9pm
Jay’s Seafood Restaurant
225 E Sixth Street Dayton, OH  45402
(937) 222-2892
4-8pm

 

Neil’s Heritage House
2323 West Schantz Avenue, Dayton OH
(937) 298-86111
3 -7pm
Shen’s Szechuan & Sushi 
7580 Poe Ave Dayton, OH 45414
(937) 898-3860
11am – 10pm

 

Spaghetti Warehouse
6 W. Fifth Street, Dayton OH 45402
(937) 461-3913
11am – 8pm
The Caroline
5 South Market Street, Troy , OH 45373
(937) 552-7676
3- 8pm Christmas Buffet Only
Adults – $20.95, Children 5 to 12 – $9.95, Under 5 Free

 

The Oakwood Club
2414 Far Hills Avenue, Oakwood, Ohio 45419
(937) 293-6973
4-9pm

Banner_Christmas
For all those folks who may not celebrate Christmas, or just don’t want to cook that day, there are indeed a few restaurants that will be open for your dining pleasure.  Of course you can always dine at Waffle House- they never close, but no matter where you dine out, please remember that the staff of these places have given up their holiday to serve you, so please tip generously, as working on a holiday is never fun, but should at least be profitable for those away from their families.

As always, if you know of a place we missed, feel free to add it in the comments!

Dayton Restaurants Open Christmas Day

 

Amar India Restaurant
2759 Miamisburg Centerville Road
(937) 439-9005
12 – 7pm
Champps Americana 
7880 Washington Village Drive, Washington Twp.
(937) 433-2333
Noon to 10 pm

 

Fricker’s
7 Area Locations
5pm – 2am
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
4429 Cedar Park Drive (at The Greene) Beavercreek, OH 45440
(937) 431-9200
11am – 8pm

 

Neil’s Heritage House
2323 West Schantz Avenue, Dayton OH
(937) 298-86111
3 -7pm
Shen’s Szechuan & Sushi 
7580 Poe Ave Dayton, OH 45414
(937) 898-3860
11am – 10pm

Jane’s Best Bets (3/30 – 4/3)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

It is the end of March…although the madness continues, of course!  This also means that it’s the beginning of April showers.  However, instead of gifts, I’m going to shower you with things to do!

On Wednesday, make your way to the fabulous Jay’s Seafood Restaurant for their Groth Vineyards Tasting or to Bruning’s Wine Cellar for their Special Edition Tasting: All White Wines from Germany and Austria.  Although Sammy’s El Pueblo in Springboro has been open for a little while, head to their Grand Opening Celebration, which will feature a live mariachi band and buy one get one lunch or dinner!  Hopefully you’re like me and have your tickets to Avenue Q at Victoria Theatre (which is actually on Main Street).  Entertainment Weekly called it “one of the funniest shows you’re ever likely to see,” so I am so ready to get my laugh on and I hope you are too!  Just be sure to get your tickets ASAP as I have been told that there are only a few tickets remaining!  (For more info on this show, check out Shane Anderson’s article on DMM.)  And if you’re feeling like grabbing a beer and listening to some acoustic music, head to the Trolley Stop for the Old Time Acoustic Jam.

On Thursday, make your way to the PNC 2nd Street Market for Maple Syrup Maestro.  Over at Coco’s Bistro, enjoy their delicious food and 1/2 Price Wine by the Bottle.  Make your way to the Dayton Art Institute for DAI Movie Night: Steve McQueen in ‘Bullitt’.  FYI – “Bullit” doesn’t look like it’s speled corectlee, but when I looked it up, it waz acshually correctt.  If you love live music, make your way to the Centerville Schools Performing Arts Center to watch as The Centerville Orchestra presents, Mark Wood, a musician with an impressive resume!  Or, combine your love for video games with music by attending the Dayton Philharmonic’s The Return of Play! A Video Game Symphony at the Schuster Center.

On Friday, don’t go out and do anything.  Just be lazy, stay at home, and relax on the couch.  April Fool!  Of course you better not be doing that or else I’d have to try to drag you off the couch!  Instead, you can make your way to the Dayton Visual Arts Center for their Auction Preview Exhibition.  If you love cows and want to protect them, head to the Dayton Mall Chick-fil-A for their customer appreciation day, in which you will get a free Chick-fil-A sandwich(offered  4-7PM).  I have to be honest – I am so disappointed because I LOVE Chick-fil-A but do the “no meat on Fridays in Lent” thing…I wish they had a Fish-fil-A Sandwich!  Help raise money for music scholarships at Cedarville University by attending the ‘Musical Chairs’ performance.  If you’re downtown, be sure to participate in First Friday, the art hop that happens the first Friday of each month.  Kristen Wicker does a fantastic job telling you all about the events going on as part of First Friday, so I’ll shut my mouth (or stop typing) and encourage you to check out her article yourself…it’s really not a joke!

On Saturday, all you 5K lovers should head to Eastwood MetroPark for Celtic Academy’s Inaugural 5K Race for the Worlds Run/Walk.  All you art lovers should attend the Auction Preview Exhibition at the Dayton Visual Arts Center.  Some theater options include Beauty and the Beast at Victoria Theatre, Bill W. & Dr. Bob at Dayton Playhouse, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The Playhouse South, The Boys Next Door at the Dayton Theatre Guild, and Smoke on the Mountain at the University of Dayton.  Also at the University of Dayton, listen to the sounds of the Ebony Heritage Singers, Dayton’s gospel choir which will perform music from the African-American sacred music tradition.  Take the stairway to the Schuster Center, which will seem like heaven as you see the Dayton Philharmonic’s performance, The Symphony Rocks: Music of Led Zeppelin.  If you love football but hate to sit out in the cold, head to Hara Arena to watch as the Dayton Silverbacks play the Cincinnati Commandos.  And if you love black tie events and supporting great causes, head to the Wright State University ArtsGala.  I have heard that this is always an amazing event!

The Symphony Rocks: The Music of Led Zeppelin

On Sunday, THEater seems like THE thing to do!  Beauty and the Beast at Victoria Theatre, Bill W. & Dr. Bob at Dayton Playhouse, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The Playhouse South, The Boys Next Doorat Dayton Theatre Guild, and Smoke on the Mountain at the University of Dayton are all options.  Or bring your kids to the Dayton Philharmonic’s performance, The Beat Goes On at the Schuster Center.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

How does a cow keep track of all her appointments?

She checks her COWander.

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

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (1/12 – 1/16)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

I’m ready for another great week…and the official kick-off to “Fish Fry Season” this Friday!  If you don’t like fish, don’t worry, as there are plenty of other options as well!

On Wednesday, head to The Wine Gallery for their Weekly Wine Tasting.  Wear your Flyer gear and head to the UD Arena to watch UD play St. Joseph’s.  If you like live music, watch Frozen Feet (which is probably pretty accurate this time of year) at Oregon Express or check out the Old Time Acoustic Jam at The Trolley Stop.  Oh…and if you’re like me and kill every plant you come in contact with, get some good plant advice at Cox Arboretum for Lunch and Learn: Fool Proof Plants.

On Thursday, be one of the first 50 customers at PNC 2nd Street Market for their Customer Appreciation Days in order to receive a gift.  While there, enjoy musical entertainment and also participate in their Winter Flower Arranging.  Help out 4 Paws for Ability, a wonderful charity that helps people with disabilities by attending their Charity Quarter Auction at the American Legion.  If you love acoustic music, head to Dublin Pub to see Nick Mitchell perform.  It’s cold outside so go  INTO Victoria Theatre for Into the Woods.  And finally, I’d love to see you at The Wine Loft for Generation Dayton’s Thirsty Thursday!  Plus, you’ll have a chance to win a Wine Loft gift card!

On Friday, again head to PNC 2nd Street Market for one of their Customer Appreciation Days and their Winter Flower Arranging.  I know this is DaytonMostMetro.com, but if you’re feeling like doing a little traveling, I’ll give you the okay just this once to go to Cincinnati for The 53rd Annual Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show.  If you are in the advertising industry, head to Brixx for their Hermes Call for Entries & Happy Hour.  While you’re downtown, brave the elements by attending the Star-Late Skate at RiverScape.  Or attend At the Movies with Rodgers & Hammerstein at the Schuster Center, Into the Woods presented by Muse Machine at Victoria Theatre, or Ravenscroft at Dayton Theatre Guild.  And finally, help kick-off fish fry season by attending the Holy Angels Fish Fry and Silent Auction!

On Saturday, head to Spinoza’s for their Yeti Beer Breakfast!, where they will also have live jazz music.  What a great way to start your Saturday!  You can continue the eating out tradition for the day by attending the Wine Luncheon at Jay’s Seafood…which is absolutely delicious!  Up in Yellow Springs, head to their Winter Farmer’s Market.  Over at another kind of market, the PNC 2nd Street Market, bring the kids and participate in their Winter Family Fun Day.  If you really should be working on that next house project, head to the Miami Valley Home Improvement Show for some great ideas!  Give your skating skills a try as part of Ice Skating with Generation Dayton.  Don’t worry, if you fall…I mean when you fall…you’ll be in great company!  For some theater action, get tickets to see Into the Woods at Victoria Theatre, Ravenscroft at Dayton Theatre Guild, At the Movies with Rodgers & Hammerstein at the Schuster Center, or Justin & Ryan:  A Night of Improv, which is also at the Schuster Center.  Help the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation by attending the Let it Breathe Wine Opener at Taj Ma Garaj.  Or head over to Blind Bob’s for the North Main Flower Man Benefit, which will feature several bands.  Why not party AND support a good cause?!?!

On Sunday, head over to Books & Co. for their Second Sunday Free Writers’ Workshop.  If you’re feeling like life is a little too hectic and would like to hit the pause button, just head over to Pause to Ponder at Gallery St. John to see photographs of scenes from Dayton.  Or see A Student of People Exhibit, which is an exhibit featuring people from different walks of life.  If you still haven’t made it to the Miami Valley Home Improvement Show, make your way there to get some fantastic ideas for your home.  Love prime rib?  Treat yourself and perhaps someone else (if you’re really nice) by heading over to Fleming’s for their Prime Rib Dinner, which is featured at the special price of $29.95.  If you would like to catch a show, see Into the Woods at the Victoria Theatre or Ravenscroft at the Dayton Theatre Guild.  And if your taste in music is rather eclectic, definitely check out 3 Mo’ Divas at the Schuster Center…which sounds like it will be a great performance!

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Why couldn’t the pony talk?

He was a little horse.

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

Have a great week Dayton!