pies

Last Call for Ghostlight Thanksgiving Pies!

November 17, 2023 By Lisa Grigsby

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s important to know that it’s still possible to get homemade pies locally, but you must oder before noon on Sat, Nov 18th. For over a decade the gals behind these sweet treats from Ghostlight Coffee and Dough have been baking up some of the best pies in the area!

Their most popular pies are The Lumberjack Pie (pictured above) – a combination of salty & sweet: a crispy, cinnamon-y cookie inspired crust is filled with ooey-gooey, buttery, custard-y, maple-y goodness.The Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie– Pecan Pie gussied up with a splash (or few) of Kentucky Bourbon and Mama Smith’s Fantastic Apple Pie- a vegan Dutch Apple Pie with a touch of spice and super sweet & crisp apples.

Place your order online now until noon on Sat. Nov 18th for Thanksgiving treats. Click link to online shop via GhostlightCoffee.com to see the menus. Pick up will be at the South Park Ghostlight location between 1-6pm on Nov 21 & 22

A very limited supply of additional desserts will be available for on-site purchase at both Ghostlight Coffee locations on November 21 and 22.

Time to Order Ghostlight Pies For the Holiday

November 7, 2021 By Lisa Grigsby

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s important to know that it’s still possible to get homemade pies locally. For the last six years the gals behind these sweet treats from Ghostlight Coffee have been baking up some of the best pies in the area. Order your Thanksgiving or Hanukkah treat now!

Place your order online now until noon on Sat. Nov 20th for Thanksgiving treats. Click link to online shop via GhostlightCoffee.com to see the menus. Pick up will be at the South Park Ghostlight location between noon and 6pm on Tues, Nov 23rd or Wed, Nov 24th.

Rugelach cookie bars

This is the 2nd year they are offering Hanukkah treats and the menu includes pies, Rugelach cookie bars, tarts, macarons, ghost tarts and bagels. Pick-up for these treats will be on Sat, Nov 27th.

A limited supply of additional pies & desserts will be available for on-site purchase at Ghostlight Coffee on each pick-up date from 2pm-6pm.

MCL Cafeteria: Not Just for Granny Anymore

February 17, 2017 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

MCL Cafeteria, Not just for Grandma Anymore

“Hey you wanna join us for dinner?”

–Yeah sure…

“Ok meet us over at MCL Cafeteria..”

–MCL???? What ??

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

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

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

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

HERE’S THE SKINNY on MCL CAFETERIA:

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

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

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

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

Roast Beef ready to be Carved

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

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

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

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

Salads and Fruits offered

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

She’s My Cherry Pie !

MUST EATS at MCL CAFETERIA:

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

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

Fried Catfish – one of our faves at MCL

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

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

Swiss Veal – a cult favorite at MCL

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

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

—ACORN SQUASH SIDE:

The best side at MCL Cafeteria is the Acorn Squash

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

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

Chicken Parm

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

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

Fresh Salads

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

The long walk to the cafeteria assembly line

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

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

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

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

Fried Chicken and more for the plucking

EARLY HOURS !

Fish and more

Dinner rolls

Peach friggin Pie

Sugar Pie and puddings

Stewed tomatoes

Roast Beef

Twice baked potato and Swiss Veal

More Salads

Chopped Steak, mashed potatoes/Gravy, Mac n Cheese

Closing the place down at 8:30pm

There’s always room for jello

Serving up Baked fish and Chicken Parm

Baked Chicken

Sausages and Kraut

We got the Beets

Fried chicken

Foccacia Rolls

Dont they know the damage Hungry Jax would do ??

Outside

Toss my salad

More salads

Chicken Croquette and baked fish

Getting the scoop

Pecan Pie

Hey Grandpa! Take us to MCL !!

Carved Turkey

Chocolate Creme Pie

Corn Bread

Salsbury steak

Chicken Parmesan

Homemade Pies at Ghostlight Coffee

November 11, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

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

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

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

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

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

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

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

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

NEW TREATS:

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

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

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

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

The Big Ragu enjoyed Ghostlight Pies From Scratch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Limited time !

Look at those Bourbon Pecan Pies !

Outside of Ghostlight Coffee

From Scratch by Ghostlight Coffee

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

Since 2011

The Big Ragu and owner of Ghostlight, Shane Anderson

Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie

Mara and some baked Ghostlight goodies

Pecan pie twist like no other

Barista Capital of Dayton

Pumpkin Maple – a twist on an old favorite

Fresh Pie

Pumpkin Maple

Order Form

Eat me, I’m Celtic !

July 25, 2014 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

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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Local, Legendary Food Adventures at 2nd Street Market – Part 1

December 13, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Some of the Best of Dayton, all in one place !

How about one building that combines some of the best cooks in Dayton and lines them up along the wall in their own vendor booths? It’s not a dream, it’s reality in downtown Dayton.

This is the first of 2 Food Adventure installments over the next few days, and both cover Dayton’s 2nd Street Market. What a shocker, the first one focuses on FOOD !

The Big Ragu & Crew have become semi-regulars at the market over the past few years. Some of our tastiest excursions have been in this treasure trove of great eats.

Variety is the spice of life, and this is true for the market located on the corner of Webster and 2nd Street. If you have never stopped in, then you haven’t had some for Dayton’s best.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— A great place to grab a bite to eat and a unique place to do some Christmas shopping !!! The official address is 600 E. Second St.

— The market is open 3 days: Thursday & Friday 11am-3pm, and Saturday 8am – 3pm. The great offerings are overwhelming and coming here has become one of our Food Adventure addictions.

— Many vendors offer fresh fruit & vegetables. Others offer freshly baked desserts and breads. You want more? How about cheeses, meats, spices, canned goods and more. There are more local, fresh and organic choices here than anyplace we know of in Dayton.

The best tasting side you never heard of: Sweet Potato Quinoa from Chef Case

MUST EATS:

— THE SMOKED SALMON CREPE at CREPE BOHEME : The Big Ragu will tell you this is the best place in Dayton to get a crepe. Crepe master Sabine combines the smoked salmon with goat cheese, capers and grilled vegetables. It is a symphony in your mouth. Her secret is using the freshest ingredients around and flavor combinations that will knock your socks off. Not a salmon fan? No worries.. choose one of the menu items or “make your own” crepe with various ingredients. Prepare to be blown away.Honorable Mention: The crepe with Nutella, marshmallows and blackberries. All the taste of guilty pleasure with not so much guilt.

— FAMOUS CHICKEN PANINI from THE CHEF CASE : Chef Joe Fish believes that using local ingredients promotes fresh flavor. Here he works some magic with a whole herb grilled chicken breast and Artesian Basil Pesto. The panini is made on fresh bread and pressed, thereby melting provolone and Parmesan cheese into gooey deliciousness. The chef is a Culinary Institute of America graduate and creates some of the best tastes in town. In fact, there are so many delicious menu items here that we have to give honorable mention to two more of them. First, make sure you try a serving of the Sweet Potato Quinoa. It is a healthy, flavorful side dish that not many people know about. Trust us on this ! Lastly the MONTE CRISTO PANINI is a sandwich you need to get your hands on. It is ham, turkey and swiss cheese finished with a pure maple syrup drizzle. Give your taste buds a good value for around 7 bucks.

Peanut Brittle Cupcakes from Purely Sweet Bakery (click to enlarge)

— THE DISTINGUISED DARBY at CHEEKY MEAT PIES: Who doesn’t love tasty meat and spices in a flaky crust? Forget about calories, the taste is worth every mouthful. This original take on New Zealand Street food is gaining a bit of a cult following in the Miami Valley. “The Darby” verison is ground beef mixed with spices for a delicious combo. The meat pies are hand held and made to be mobile. Be careful when taking a bite, they are hot inside ! A friendly staff makes the experience that much more fun. Honorable Mention: The Dirty Bird Meat Pie is a tasty treat and a perfect bite “on the go” at the market. It features chicken and a delicious sauce. We can’t describe these fantastic meat pies, you just gotta try them !

— THE WASABI PEAS at THE SPICE RACK: The Big Ragu can’t help himself. He craves these, and you will too. Dried peas, dipped in wasabi and sold by the box for only 2 bucks. Perfect for snacking at home, but we warn you.. ADDICTIVE ! The spice rack has some many incredible items from Amish butter to incredible spice rubs. Check this place out for some hidden treasures for the foodie in you.

— POLLO GUISADO at AREPAS and CO. : Braised chicken thigh (although we ask for the shredded white meat chicken instead), mixed with tomatoes, red peppers, onions and green beans. All of it is served over rice and plantains. Finally pick from one of various sauce toppings drizzled on top. We pick two (garlic and hot sauce) ! Get a friend to help you lift this plate and eat it. HUGE PORTION !

The best crepes in Dayton are at Crepe Boheme

— THE SHRIMP WITH HOT CHILI SAUCE at BAAN THAI NOI: We are always pleasantly surprised with Baan Thai Noi’s dishes. Our favorite is the Shrimp with Hot Chili Sauce. Two skewers of grilled basil shrimp are served over fried rice with a side of shredded cabbage and a delicious spring roll. The key to this dish is the sauce we choose to top the shrimp. The hot chili sauce is so sweet, with some heat and a whole lot of taste. Don’t knock it til you try it, this one is a sleeper !

Is your mouth watering yet? Well the good news is, the weekend is here and they are open ! Get yourself down there and stroll around the grounds and soon you’ll be tastin’ Dayton.

More Honorable mentions include:

The Cupcakes at Purely Sweet Bakery, The Cabbage Rolls at Kolbs Bakery, The Jumbalaya at All Souped Up, The Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna) at Azra’s, and some good coffee at Caffeine by Carl.

We would be remiss if we didnt mention that their are numerous other fantastic farm vendors with fresh vegetables, honey, fresh maple syrup and organic milk. Check them all out while you are there.

The 2nd Street Market is truly Food Adventure paradise !!

In the market for some more from the “Miami Valley foodies ?” Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE !

Check out some of our best photos yet in the gallery below from our numerous trips to the 2nd Street Market over the years !!!

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Christopher’s Restaurant: Saintly and Sinful

September 13, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Mushroom Bisque one of many homemade soups

Some say the food at Christopher’s Restaurant is like a religious experience. That would make sense because the eatery is named after St. Christopher, the patron saint of travel. Owner/Chef Chip Pritchard and his staff have developed a cult following with the locals, and a favorite stop of foodies who are passing through town. Why? Because it is comfort food. It is not pretentious, just good solid food. We met the owners at a farmer’s market and it has been a favorite Food Adventure stop ever since.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Known for their extensive, fresh menu it is a salad, soup and sandwich lovers paradise.

— Vegetarian and Vegan friendly choices make it a favorite healthy dining spot. Many gluten free menu items to choose from as well.

The Black Bean Burger: not just for vegans anymore

— Breakfast menu that rivals anyplace in Dayton. Most overheard quote at Christopher’s “you gotta come back for breakfast.” Tasty indeed.

— Christopher’s employs two bakers who make the desserts from scratch twice a week. Check the revolving choices and make sure you don’t miss out on these sinful offerings.

— Thursday nights are “theme nights.” Probably our favorite time to visit Christopher’s. Guaranteed great foodstuffs in a fun, inviting atmosphere. Most recently, we went to Caribbean Theme Night on September 12th.

— Christopher’s uses local farms, local produce, naturally raised beef, organic salmon (from Foremost Seafood), local free range eggs, and organic coffee and teas.

Speaking of which, The Big Ragu and crew have to tell you about …. the MUST EATS at CHRISTOPHERS

Many organic items like Ice Teas served with fresh, local mint sprigs

— THE CHRISTOPHER SPECIAL: A bacon sandwich with avocado, tomato, Neufantel cream cheese and bean sprouts. We crave this and get nights sweats thinking about this specialty sandwich.

— THE MEZZA PLATE: House Hummus, falafel, feta cheese chunks, kalamata olives, tomato slices, cucumbers and carrots surrounded by pita chips. This ain’t your grandparents vegetarian menu…

— BUFFALO CHICKEN SOUP: Phenomenal homemade soup with a kick better than Pelé. Eat some and become a Buffalo Soldier like The Big Ragu.

— THE BLACK BEAN BURGER: Even if you are not a vegetarian, you gotta try this delicious and filling burger.

— MUSHROOM BISQUE: One of our all time fave soups is simply divine. Creamy goodness in every spoonful.

— CARROT CAKE: The homemade icing will have you saying “dude, seriously?” Try it, your tummy will thank us.

— BUMBLEBERRY PIE: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Yes, 3 berries, one pie. Served cold or hot, you can’t lose with this fresh, local creation. Big Ragu approved !

— TWO GOOD BREAKFAST: Two eggs, two pieces of bacon, two pieces of sausage and two pancakes or French toast.

Delicious, Fresh Breakfast Choices

Honorable Mention: Bacon & Tomato Omelette, Honey BBQ Chicken and The “Decent Breakfast” which features choices of fruit or home fries, choice of meat, 2 eggs and a biscuit, toast or English muffin.

This quaint dining establishment is a great place for a date, or a visit with your grandmother. Expect great service, as the staff is friendly and very knowledgeable. The eclectic menu at Christopher’s Restaurant is a great place for a serious eater. From healthy, to vegan, from ethnic to good old fashioned American comfort food, they have it all. It fits the bill for practically any occasion. Best of all, many ingredients are fresh and local. Give it a try next time you are near the corner of Woodman Dr and Dorothy Lane. They are open Monday – Saturday: 7:30am – 9pm. They use organic to make meals that are fantastic.

Browse the many dishes in our photo album below from our many meals at Christopher’s.

Love Facebook? Want some more from your favorite “foodies in their forties?” Then check out Food Adventures on Facebook —> HERE

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Buckin’ Donkey Grille: The Menu Will Kick Your …

May 9, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Beef on Weck – Old Style Taste

The Food Adventure Crew have been tackling the only Polish-Irish Pittsburgh Bar cuisine in Dayton for months now. Today, we share these experiences with you.

Our weekly Food Adventure installment brings us to The Buckin’ Donkey Grille at 3808 Wilmington Pike in Kettering. Sure, being Cincinnati Bengals fans, we have to stomach the Steelers posters, but the food is worth it.

Our friend, owner Sean Mckown, has worked in various restaurants, but honed his skills cooking for his buddies. Over the years he has tweaked recipes and invented menu items that are remarkable comfort food. Sean is a laid-back guy with a great sense of humor. You can often catch him mingling with patrons as he is in and out of the kitchen. Sean is our kind of guy, making food that his friends love. He experiments in the kitchen, and has perfected his dishes over the years. This is yet another locally owned spot, where almost everything is made from scratch.

Sit back, saddle up as we take you for a ride on the Buckin’ Donkey menu highlights.

Here’s the Skinny:

Sean McKown, Pittsburgh Native and owner of Buckin’ Donkey Grille

— Inventive, homemade menu with one-of-a-kind items or Chef Sean’s twists on standard favorites.

— One section of their menu is Breakfast, served all day

— Locally owned, sports bar atmosphere

— Great drink specials: In May, bottles of Corona are only $2. Last month, Red Stripe beers were only 2 bucks.

— The large outdoor patio will get some good use this summer.

Must Eats:

— The Jumbalaya – spicy and addicting, Sean has been making this masterpiece in a cup for over 15 years.

Banana Peppers Stuffed with Chorizo and Cheese

— Old Style ChicagoWeck – A favorite of most of our friends. Slow cooked Italian beef, marinated in au jus. The weck bun makes the sandwich along with a dash of horseradish. You want authentic, you got it. Get your kimmelweck on. Stop slobbering and order one.

— The Pork Belly Burger. – This is a favorite! It is a burger of 80/20 beef, topped with cheese and strips of pork belly. Inventive and delicious.

— Stuffed Banana Peppers – Stuffed with chorizo and cheese, these long sliced banana peppers melt in your mouth. Warning: Your taste buds aren’t going to believe this. Talk about original, try these on for size.

Frosted Flake French Toast – They serve breakfast all day

— Frosted Flake French Toast – It is what it says. French toast, coated with Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes cereal. So good and rich, that Tony the Tiger himself would be proud. It is a savory breakfast item that immediately makes you feel like you are at home.

— The Pierogie Burger – A burger topped with a couple of pierogies. Big Ragu loves these so much, it makes him want to dance to polka music.

— Shrimp Po’ Boy – We recommend the grilled shrimp version. It is an amazing take on this Louisiana style sandwich.

— Homemade Desserts – Not many restaurants have the chef’s mom making the pies from scratch. Buckin’ Donkey Grille does. There is no set dessert menu, so whatever she made that day, is what’s available. Don’t worry though, they are all good. You have to try the peanut butter pie, strawberry shortcake and the cheesecake. We would run topless across lanes of traffic on Wilmington Pike to get a taste of these. Another incredible unique favorite is their homemade walnut pie. We are willing to bet that nobody else in Dayton serves walnut pie. If someone else does, we will let you kick us in the walnuts.

Homemade Walnut Pie

There are so many great flavors on this menu, it is hard to pick just a few favorites. Other honorable mention specialties that we recommend include The Reuben Sandwich and The Cuban Sandwich. The grilled wings are great and so are the hand breaded deep fried pickle slices. Also, the thin sliced onion rings are so good that we have been known to arm wrestle over the last forkful. If you are feeling sassy, try the Porky Pig Burger, a pork/beef mix burger served on a doughnut! It was definitely a unique tasting sandwich.

Also, don’t forget that Buckin’ Donkey Grille has $1 hot dogs and $2 chili dogs during every Cincinnati Reds Game! They also feature live music on Saturday nights and trivia on Wednesday nights.

There really is no secret to this place. The formula is great food at fair prices. The servers are also very personable and attentive. Sean McKown did it right. Many Daytonians are grateful that he has brought a sampling of Pittsburgh to the Gem City. Make sure you visit this seemingly typical sports bar, with the uncommon fare. We know why they named this place the Buckin’ Donkey Grille, because the menu is kickin’ ass.

Browse through all of our original food photos from Buckin’ Donkey Grille in the album below. Drool bibs not included.

Who else is ‘buckin the trends’ and settin’ the trends? … Food Adventures! Ride us and ‘like’ us on Facebook by clicking HERE !

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