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Kramers Reopens With New Owners!

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Elmer Kramer opened Kramers on Irving Ave in 1933. Kramers became the place to “tailgate” before UD basketball and football games.

When it was time, Elmer Kramer passed the bar onto his sons Bob and Red. Red, then passed it to his son, Fred. For 55 years, Kramers was solely owned and run by the Kramer family. In 1988 an entrepreneur by the name of Tom Zimmerman joined Fred in order to turn Kramers into the bar it is today. Tom added the pizza oven, simple bar food, and liquor.

Kramers is still family owned, but by a new family- The Gibson’s.  When it reopens tomorrow at 11am, it will be Whitney and Brad who run the place.  Whitney worked in restaurant when she was in high school and college, prefering the kitchen, where she really enjoyed cutting up vegetables, but admits she made better money as a waitress.  She and Brad have been practicing making pizza for the past few weeks, along with doing a deep clean and paint job on on the interior of the building.  They’ve retained 5 of the former 6 employees, as well as adding a few more to speed up service.

 

They menu is still pretty much the same, with pizza as the star.  The Gibson’s got the recipe when they bought the business, so you can enjoy the same great pizza in 3 sizes.

Also available salads, sandwiches and more.

Whitney shares she was on a girl’s trip last year and she really enjoyed the local neighborhood eateries they could walk to.  Brad was enamored with the lure of a local bar with a following that was a must stop for UD alums when they returned for a visit.  So when Kramers became available they just knew that would be their place.

They’ve update the register system and hope to add online ordering.  Whitney is looking forward to putting lunch specials on the menu and adding Coke fountain guns, come April.  Follow their new facebook page for more updates as they come.  Also, did you know you can rent out the front room, which seats about 50, for private parties?

 

 

 

 

 

 

So stop on out and welcome The Gibson’s to the business and tell them Dayton Dining sent you!

Kramers Tavern Dayton

1018 Irving Avenue,
Dayton, OH, United States, Ohio

937-294-9141

 

Tues, Wed & Sun 11am -9pm
Thurs, Fri & Sat 11am – midnight

Heart Shaped Pizza’s For Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day is nearly here — a time for cards, flowers and boxes of chocolate. For many pizzerias nationwide, it’s also the time for heart-shaped pizzas.  Restaurants have been serving these Valentine-themed pizzas at least since 1955, when one appeared at Los Angeles mainstay Villa Capri. The trend hit national chains like Papa John’s and Pizza Hut in the late 2000s.

Below, we’ve rounded up all the heart-shaped pizzas available for Valentine’s Day 2023.

Papa Johns is celebrating the season of love by bringing back its fan-favorite Heart-Shaped Pizza which features a thin crust pizza made with signature, never frozen dough, cut into a heart shape, and covered with one topping of your choice. As in previous years, the Heart-Shaped Pizza is served unsliced, to maintain the integrity of the heart shape. While prices may vary, you can expect to pay $11.99 for a Heart-Shaped Pizza.

Donatos is celebrating Valentine’s Day this year by bringing back heart-shaped pizzas for a limited time through February 14, 2023. Donatos will be offering the create your own heart-shaped pizza option on its signature thin crust at the price of a medium pizza. The fan-favorite seasonal pizzas will be available to purchase online, by phone or in your local restaurant.

 

Heart-Shaped Pizzas have returned once again to Cassano’s.  They are  offering a large heart shaped pepperoni pizza for a limited time.  Save $2.50 by using coupon code 29

Jet’s Pizza is celebrating Valentine’s Day by giving us three heart-shaped options. You’ll need a coupon code for each treat, and stores are selling them while supplies last. This offer is available for both pickup and delivery. Here are the codes you’ll need for your heart-shaped foods:

  • Heart-Shaped Pizza (reg. $15.49): LOVE
  • Heart-Shaped Bread (reg. $8.49): BEMINE
  • Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Stix (reg. $7.99): SWEET

Rapid Fired Pizza  wants to help you celebrate your loved one’s by grabbing a heart-shaped pie from RFP this Valentine’s Day! And this pizza can be made in 90 seconds, great for when you’re in a hurry to share your love.

 

Marco’s Pizza

A heart shaped pizza from Marcos

You can get a 1-topping, heart-shaped pizza starting at $9.99 from Marco’s when you use the code HEART on checkout through the Marco’s app or website. This deal isn’t available for dine in.

 

How Troni’s Found New Owners

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If you have visited Troni Brothers Pizza in Kettering, OH, then you know that with every visit you will enjoy a taste of Italy as well as customer service that has been handed down generations. They have built their businesses on Family, Community and Authentic food.

In early 2020 Labinot (Labi) Troni planned to open a pizza shop in Springboro OH. They decided to add a Point of Sale (POS) system to allow for easier order taking and creating an online ordering system for the pizza shop. Roma’s Pizza worked with Dave Keen the owner of Roxstar Payments. As we all are aware 2020 was a difficult year for many people and for small businesses everywhere. Roma’s had a difficult decision to make with Covid changing everything; do they give up or do they GO FOR IT! And as the strong team they are, they went for it!

During the set up and training period of the POS system, Labi Troni asked Dave to help on the first evening because they were very busy from the minute they opened the doors! Labi knew Dave could operate the POS system better than anyone since he is the one who set up the menu, he would know where every button was. Dave was answering phones, taking orders, checking people out and having fun! When the rush was over Labi asked Dave to return the next night to help. That relationship grew quickly along with mutual respect.

Dave worked side by side with the Roma’s Team and started to bring his son Riley with him to help out. Dave volunteered happily because he enjoyed the time at the restaurant, helping great people do what they love and meeting the customers who make it all possible. As he continued volunteering his time with the Troni’s, he developed deeply rooted relationships of family and friends. And as he helped the Troni’s other restaurants, their friends and family’s restaurants, he began to take the pizza business in as a whole. Dave, along with his wife Gina and son’s Dylan and Riley found a family extension with the Troni family.

Dave and Gina are Kettering natives. They met and graduated from Kettering Schools, so the sense of community is instilled in them. They later married and had two boys. Dylan is the oldest and on the Autism Spectrum. He has overcome many challenges in his life and is now married to Emily. Dylan has worked in the mobile phone industry for over 4 years and has built a reputation for customer service. Riley graduated in 2020 and had similar learning disabilities. He worked for Roma’s Pizza for a several months and then in late 2020 found a permanent home working at Labi’s brother Besnik’s restaurant, Troni’s Italian Restaurant on Dorothy Lane.

The more time Dave spent with Labi and the Troni’s, the more he understood the business and saw an opportunity for an outreach program. Dave spoke with Labi about his idea to create an environment for young adults with intellectual disabilities to be able to come to work and learn as Riley did. He presented the idea with safety first by using the right equipment all while still delivering the quality of food everyone expects.

As the last few years allowed Dave to grow stronger relationships with the Troni family, Labi’s uncle approached Dave to ask if he would consider buying Troni Brothers Pizza as Hisni (Junior) Troni was ready to start slowing down and maybe retire. Dave sat down with Junior and shared the idea he had a few years ago with Labi. Junior loved it! Junior always ran his restaurant as a place for family and community. They have volunteered for various events as well as provided the food for said events. The Troni Family gives back to the community twice a year by providing all First Responders, Military, Medical staff and Teachers with a FREE PIZZA DAY. For Junior to know that Dave would continue to impact the community as the Troni Family has, that made the decision easy for everyone. Dave has initiated and started working with Kettering Schools and their Special Education Department to put his vision in place knowing that the long term goal was to implement an outreach program.

Troni Brothers Pizza may change technology and faces over the years, but the quality in their history and flavors never will. In May 2022 Dave and Gina Keen are taking ownership of Troni Brothers Pizza. They are honored and proud to step into Juniors shoes, sauce drips and all. They plan on remodeling the dining area for a different dining environment and experience, but the recipes will never change. Gina, Dylan and Riley will run the day-to-day operations of the restaurant while Dave continues with the Merchant Services & Point of Sale business, helping out at the restaurant, and starting the Young Adult Outreach program with the community. 

Riley

The Keen family  hope you bring your family to meet their family, Dave, Gina, Dylan, Riley and Emily, where Family and Community always come first, and the authentic food will still be here for you.

Reprinted from Troni’s Brother’s Pizza website.

Troni Brothers Pizza

Family Owned and Operated

4654 Wilmington Pike
Kettering OH 45440

937-259-8877

Slice of Springfield 2022

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Join Partners for the Parks and sample pizza from up to eight area pizza shops. Then vote for your favorite. Attendees will also enjoy live entertainment! The Slice of Springfield fundraiser will donate 100% of proceeds from tickets to help support National Trail Parks & Recreation District. Your $25 ticket includes at least 8 squares of pizza, and a free drink (soft drink, beer or wine). Tickets purchased through Eventbrite on or before January 15 will receive an additional free drink! Youth tickets (12 & under) will be available for $10 at the door. Tickets are also available for purchase at the National Trail Administration Building.

So Pizza Now Open Across From Dayton Mall

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Simla Oscan is a college student majoring in business administration and gets some real life experience in running a business with her family’s new eatery, So Pizza. Originally from Turkey, the family lived in Italy for a while where Simla remembers her grandfather running restaurants, which is what sparked her dream to own a restaurant.  The family moved to Ohio about when she was in junior high for her father’s granite business. Which worked out well for furnishing the tables for the eatery.

When we asked about the name, Simla just smiled and said it was her initials. On the day we visited she was working the counter and her mom was doing the the cooking.  Opened just last week in the strip center across from the Dayton Mall on  Rt. 725 is open seven days a week from 10am -10pm during the week, staying open til 11pm on Friday and Saturday.

And while the name tells you it’s a pizza place, the menu is so much more. Offering spaghetti, lasagna, and fettuccini alfredo, salads, burgers, subs, calzones and even fried chicken.  You can enjoy your food in the spacious dining room with table and booth seating surrounded by artwork of cartoons enjoying food, get carryout or have their food delivered.

Pictured here the chicken bacon ranch pizza and the deluxe pizza,  which like all their pizzas comes in 10, 12, 14 or 16 inch sizes.

They offer a lunch special Monday – Friday from noon until 2pm that is a 3 topping small pizza, fries and a 20 oz drink for $9.99.  The also offer a Family Meal Deal all day which is a 1 topping XL Pizza, 16 wings and a 2 liter dink for $30.99.

Here’s the entire menu:

Great Miami Riverway’s PIZZA TRAIL

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Announcing the Great Miami Riverway’s PIZZA TRAIL of pizza shops. Locally-owned pizza shops are a source of pride for communities, and serve as part of the fabric of each Riverway community.

Did you know that the largest pizza ever baked weighed 26,883 pounds? For some perspective – that is 44 times heavier than the Wright brother’s Wright Flyer aircraft!

That particular pizza measured 122 feet, 8 inches in diameter, weighed 26,883 pounds, and contained 9,920 pounds of flour, 3,960 pounds of cheese, 1 763 pounds of mushrooms, 1,984 pounds of tomato puree, and 1,984 pounds of chopped tomatoes.

If you’re looking for a pizza that can actually fit in your car – or plane – for takeout, the Great Miami Riverway has every kind pf pie imaginable.

Locally-owned pizza shops are a source of pride for communities, and serve as part of the fabric of each Riverway community. And they all have a story behind them, a story of a small business owner who’s worked long hours to build a loyal customer base that lasts years and years.

A favorite in Hamilton, Richard’s Pizza was first opened by Richard Underwood in 1955. Richard’s daughters continue to run the business in five locations around Hamilton. He said in a 2019 Hamilton Journal News article “…we only buy the best products available.  That typically means tomatoes, pepperoni and cheese from local, family-owned businesses. We don’t believe in short cuts or adding sugar to our sauce,” Richard said. “You can make a cheap pizza that way, but that doesn’t work for us. It’s all about quality.”

The pizza shops of the Riverway offer hometown favorites, gourmet flavors, gluten-free, vegan, and GIGANTIC. Your favorite shop is probably on this list, but use the Pizza Trail list to pick a new place to visit, or hop the whole trail and try them all!

Your favorite is probably on this list, but pick a new one to try – or travel the whole trail and try them all!

Old Scratch Pizza

Old Scratch Pizza is a casual, counter-service, walk-in-only restaurant. Our Neapolitan-style pies are quickly crafted in our 800° wood-burning ovens, and served with 20 taps of local and regio…

Old Scratch Pizza
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Original Flying Pizza

The Original is still the best! Are you a fan of The Flying Pizza? Visit us often to see our specials, what’s new and hit our website too… www.originalflyingpizza.com

Original Flying Pizza
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Pisanello’s Pizza

A local favorite with pizza, subs, sandwiches, salads and lunch specials, this renovated hardware store features a pizza parlor on the street level, two meeting rooms on the second floor, and a grand …

Pisanello's Pizza
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3 Joe’s Pizzeria and Trattoria

This beautiful restaurant serves authentic Italian food including pastas and delicious pizza. They also feature tasty soups, desserts and a complete wine list.

3 Joe’s Pizzeria and Trattoria
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Richard’s Pizza

Since 1955, Richard’s Pizza has been family owned and operated. Grab a slice or a whole pie, or try one of our World-Famous Italian Steak Sandwiches!

Richard's Pizza
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Ron’s Pizza and Ribs

We’ve got some of the best food in our town and a great selection from which your whole family can choose. From Pizza to Pasta, from Seafood to Salads, not to mention crowd favorite Soups, …

Ron's Pizza and Ribs
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A & G Pizza

The BEST pizza in Franklin – heck – in the world!!

A & G Pizza
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Al’s Pizza

Al’s Pizza serves the finest pizza in Sidney, OH. We at Al’s Pizza are proud to say that our dough is made fresh every day. Our pizza sauce and dough are made from scratch bringing you the great taste…

Al's Pizza
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The Trojan Horse

“We’re More Than Just Pizza!” #troyohio #supportsmallbusiness #blessed #thetrojanhorse #foodie #local #pizza #love

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DJ’s Pizza Alley

 

DJ's Pizza Alley
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The Slice Pie

The Slice Pie is a no Frills Pizza shop ‘delivering’ Unbelievably great NY style pizza with our World famous Pickle Pie!! We use Only the Freshest Ingredients, the way it used to be. San Marzano tomat…

The Slice Pie
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Ron’s Pizza West Carrollton

Ron’s Pizza is the place to go for the best pizza in Dayton. Our homemade dough and fresh ingredients will quickly make you a fan! We promise that once you have a taste, you will definitely be back ag…

Ron's Pizza West Carrollton
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Pappa’s Pizza Palace

Our gluten-free pizza is flavorful and oh, so, delicious. We are told that Pappa’s Pizza Palace offers the best gluten-free pizza option in Dayton, Ohio. Our customers claim that our GF pizza crust could pass for wheat.

Pappa's Pizza Palace
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Design a T-shirt for Giovanni’s – Win Pizza For a Year!

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Giovanni’s in Fairborn is looking for some creative new shirt designs to represent their business.  Here are some of their previous shirts:
You may send your design to them by mail, drop off at the restaurant or send by messenger on Facebook.

Two winners will be declared.  One will be chosen by Giovanni’s and the 2nd will be chosen by voters on social media.
Winers  will be awarded 1 free large pizza a month for 12 months!
All designs are due by March 1st 2021
Please let me know if you have any questions!!

 

Giovanni’s Fairborn

215 W Main St
Fairborn, OH 45324
(937) 878-1611
Wednesday – Sunday  11am – 9pm

Reservations suggested for dine in

Dayton Pizza Factory To Compete in ORA Fundraiser

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The Ohio Restaurant Association Education Foundation announces the launching of statewide fundraising campaign to benefit Ohio Restaurant Employee Relief Fund

From Monday, January 25 to Sunday, January 31, the Ohio Restaurant Association Education Foundation (ORAEF) is collaborating with pizza operators and restauranteurs with generous hearts on a statewide fundraiser, called Pizza with a Purpose, to benefit the Ohio Restaurant Employee Relief Fund.

Participating pizza operators across the Buckeye state will donate $1.00 per pepperoni pizza sold to the Fund, which provides grants to restaurant, foodservice and hospitality employees financially impacted by the pandemic.

The number of pizzas sold will be tracked, the individual location that sells the most pizzas will be recognized as “Best Pepperoni Pizza” in Ohio and awarded the coveted “Golden Pizza” slice trophy.

Currently, more than 250 operators and restauranteurs with over 100 locations total have signed up to participate, including the following:

Dayton’s Original Pizza Factory

Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern 

Wheat Penny Oven & Bar

Click here to view all participants.

“We’re incredibly honored and excited to be a part of this effort to raise awareness and funds for restaurant employees that are hurting during this difficult time. Getting pizza operators across the state to come together for a great cause is something that is the heart of every business owner that cares about their community and its people,” said Ryan Rose, president & CEO of Romeo’s Pizza Franchise, one of many participating operators. Rose is a member of the ORA & Education Foundation board of directors.

“We are so thankful for all of the pizza operators participating to help raise funds for those in need,” said John Barker, ORA president & CEO. “The need is severe. During the pandemic, we’ve conducted polls about the health of restaurants across the state to assess the devastating impacts of COVID-19 on the industry. Recent poll numbers reveal that at current capacity, 74% of Ohio restaurant operators believe they will be forced to close within one year and 82% of respondents did not break even in 2020. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics just released numbers that the restaurant industry lost 372,000 jobs nationwide in the month of December alone and is down 2.4 million jobs since March 2020.”

Even with the vaccine distribution in the early stages, Ohio’s 585,000 restaurant and foodservice employees are still struggling to find work due to many furloughs and are in financial distress.

“Since its launch in April 2020, the Relief Fund has awarded more than 1,300 grants to use for housing, living and medical expenses, and fundraised over $400,000 for employees in need,” said Patty Halper, Executive Director of the ORA Education Foundation. “Pizza with a Purpose is one of the many ways the ORAEF and generous operators are supporting them and we look forward to the promotion later this month.”

Pizza enthusiasts can learn more here and contribute to the cause through participating in Pizza with a Purpose or by donating directly to the fund at OhioRestaurantsRelief.org.

Giordanos Pizza is Coming ….

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Coming to the Farifield Mall area by year’s end.

You have heard the buzz and mumblings, and may have even seen what the pizzas look like. .  Giordano’s Pizza is coming.  Yes, finally, a one of a kind Deep Dish Chicago Style Icon will enter the Miami Valley, and thick pizza in Dayton will forever be changed.

Opening day will be Tuesday, Feb 19th!
They will open at 2819 Centre Drive, which is across from the Fairfield Commons, in the spot that was once Logan’s Steakhouse.

Eating the pizza here is a Food Adventure. in fact it is more of a pie than pizza.  A combination of deep dish pizza, a stuffed pizza and a tomato pie from all walks and regions of Italian life.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON GIORDANO’S RESTAURANT:

— In the 1800’s in Turino, Italy, Mama Giordano would get married to a Mr Boglio.  Every Easter she would make a big “Italian Easter Pie” for her family.  This pie was made only on special occasions and was a huge, stuffed pizza.

— In 1974 Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio started serving their mom’s recipe in the South side of Chicago.

A Chicago Icon

— In 2018 they have about 50 locations, one about to be Dayton, Ohio !

 

HOW TO MAKE A FAMOUS GIORDANO’S STUFFED PIZZA:

1) The pizzas are made to order and baked like a pie

2)  An oiled, Deep Dish pan is lined with a signature flaky, thick dough on the bottom.  This dough tastes like a mix of pizza dough, part pie dough, and part “pot pie” crust.

3) The pan is lined with ingredients placed on top of the thick crust.

4) The ingredients are covered in a huge mound of mozzarella cheese

5) This step is the  “secret” that sets them apart.  A thin layer of top dough is than placed atop the pizza and trimmed off, making a pie type appearance.  Numerous air holes are purposely put into this layer.

6) A thick, generous helping of marinara sauce is hand ladled onto the thin top crust , covering it completely.

The Stuffed Pizza from Giordano’s

7) The pizza is baked for 45 minutes.

There you have it, the steps to a Giordano’s Stuffed pizza.  We hope they open sooner than later, we cannot wait for a stuffed pizza Food Adventure.

 

Besides stuffed pizza Giordano menu features appetizers, Italian dishes, thin crust pizza, salads, and has a full catering menu.

Dayton has had its brush with Chicago Pizzas.  Uno’s Pizzeria used to operate 3 stores in Dayton, Centerville and Huber Heights.  Two Uno’s have since closed and only the downtown Dayton location remains at 126 North Main St. next to Victoria Theater.

For more local pizza fun and food happenings, follow FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK.

If you can’t wait until they open, feel free to go to www.Girodanos.com and have a pizza sent by  special delivery to your doorstep.

A thick dough is lined on the bottom of the pan, then igredients are applied.

 

 

Cheezy

Next comes mounds of cheese

Next a small thin layer of dough on top, poke holes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Delicious and filling -Giordanos is coming …

Literally tire of pizza

final step before baking – ladel on that sauce baby !!

Top with sauce, bake 45 min

 

 

 

Kids “Make Your Own Pizza” Food Adventure

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Kids Make your Own Pizza Night SUN SEPT. 23rd at Pisanello’s

Attention all foodie kids, or any of you 10 and under who love pizza !  Sunday September 23rd will be an epic Kid’s Food Adventure at Pisanello’s Pizza in Franklin.   The cost per child is just $6 and will include making their own personal pizza up to 2 toppings.  Just a couple of minutes off of I-75, the event will have limited seating and you must make your reservation online! If you have never tried Pisanello’s Pizza, you are in for a treat. If you have been there, then come back for that taste that has been a Franklin favorite for 3 decades !

 

***CLICK HERE TO MAKE RESERVATIONS***

There will be dough tossing, cheese spreading and a saucy good time.  Kids will learn about cooking, pizza history and more!  Families are welcome too, but only kids under 10 get the make your own pizza deal!  Parents and other siblings are welcome to attend as we will have a special menu featuring a one night only deal of $7 for 2 topping large pizzas for them!  The event will be held in the upstairs, private ballroom above the pizzeria.  We will have door prizes and much more fun activities.  Here is the full scoop !

PIsanello’s PIzza in Franklin

WHAT: KIDS 10 and UNDER MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA EVENT !

WHEN: SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 23rd, 2pm – 4pm

WHERE:  PISANELLO’S PIZZA, 355 S Main St, Franklin, OH 45005

COST: $6 per child,  Adults and other family members are free and will have a cash menu to choose from.

$6 per child gets them:
-Their own personal pizza, which they can decorate up to 2 toppings of their choice
-Beverage of their choice
-Mini cookies for dessert

There will be door prizes, gift card giveaways, pizza history and trivia , dough tossing, and more.

Adults and family members are free to attend and will have a cash menu to choose from featuring $7 large 2 topping pizza deals !

 

****YOU HAVE TO REGISTER CHILDREN ONLINE AND PREPAY FOR THEM BY CLICKING HERE..*****

Sorry no tickets sold at the door. Limited seating. First come first serve online. – Dont miss this one or get shut out!

We will see you at Pisanello’s for the first ever Kids Food Adventure!!!

For more info on Pisanello’s check out our article from earlier this year RIGHT HERE.

Families welcome – Cash menu for those not making pizza

Shantz Express- Food Truck and Future Restaurant

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The Shantz Express is here

We love Food Trucks.  I mean who doesn’t? Mobile, locally owned places filling up hungry patrons anywhere they can get on 4 wheels.  The inventive menus always allow for a Food Adventure.  And when the trucks form a rally?  It’s like a dream !  An instant food court powered by generators !

One such truck that has flown a bit under the radar, is Shantz Express Food Truck.  But lately, they have been making some big leaps and bounds.

HERE IS THE SKINNY on SHANTZ EXPRESS FOOD TRUCK:

— Owner Bill Shancey had a pizza place in Pittsburgh, before moving to Dayton more than 16 years ago.

— The menu features, Sandwiches, Gyros, Pulled Pork Nachos, Cheesesteaks, Subs, Pizza, Wings, Fries, Burgers, Dogs and Pierogies.

— They have just announced they are opening a restaurant at  5993 Bigger Road next to Bee-Gee’s Market near the Centerville / Kettering Border.  The location is near the Victoria Secret call center which could mean some serious lunch carry out business and they hope to be open in October and to continue to keep the food truck out as well.

Buffalo Hot Wings at Shantz Food Truck

— The owner is sometimes flexible and was able to make a private party with just a few hours notice.

We have visited the truck 3 times and always have been impressed.   Whether a Food Truck rally or a pool party, Shantz Express pleased the masses.

Here is our list of  MUST EATS from our times at this wonderful food truck….

 

“MUST EATS” AT SHANTZ EXPRESS FOOD TRUCK:

— BUFFALO HOT WINGS:
They are crispy with a kick and a little tang to them. These wings are what put Buffalo on the foodie map.

 

— GARLIC BUTTER WINGS:
Possibly the best food truck wings in Dayton. These are served wet, and with a few napkins. The results are quiet patrons gnawing on the wings in pure delight.

Pierogies in Garlic Butter

— THE SHANTZBURGER with CHEESE:
Have you ever had the burgers at the Rootbeer Stand or The K in Springboro?? This burger is just like those. It is a delicious taste of summer and a throwback top the burgers of the 60’s with bellhops. We loved it , great flavor on a soft bun.

 

— PIEROGIES:
Polish people of Dayton unite ! This take on the pierogie is a deep-fried, almost crunchy version served in a buttery garlic bath. The result is a mixture with the garlic mashed potato filling that is simply divine. Dip, bite and repeat for maximum effectiveness.

 

— THE CHICKEN PARM SANDWICH:
Deep fried chicken sandwich with a slice of mozzarella cheese and homemade tomato sauce. Pretty good stuff for a food truck ! His sauce is the same as Shauncey’s former pizza place in Pittsburgh.

 

—THE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK:

Philly Cheesesteak

Flavorful, hearty and filling are the strengths of this sub. He must have spent some time in Philly learning the cheese steak trade…

 

Honorable Mention: The French Fries, which are slightly reminiscent of McDonalds… whose of course are the best. Also, try a GYRO but make sure to ask them to grill the onions and add extra tzatziki sauce. It makes it all good.

 

They do have pizza, but we found the other items to be the menu stars.

So, there you have it hungry foodies, your best chance for success when devouring some Shantz Express.  We look forward to the new “brick and mortar” place, as they say.  For us, it means enjoying Mr. Shauncey’s food year round !  Ohh, those wings though …..

Are you a Dayton area foodie? Food Adventures is your mecca !  Join us on Facebook for daily posts and here for weekly feature articles on DaytonMostMetro.

Feel free to browse our gallery below and we will see you at the next food truck rally !!

The Shantzburger with Cheese

Chicken Parm

French Fries

Shantz Burger

Shantz Burger with Cheese

Hot Wings

Pizza !

Gyro Sandwich

Buttery Garlic Wings

Keep Truckin

Pierogies in a cup – butter sauce in bottom

Oozing Chicken Parmesan sandwich

Pizza Pie

Gyro

 

 

 

SICSA Pizza Party at Heavier Than Air Brewing

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Pizza Party for SISCA Aug 15th

Boy, have we got a Food Adventure for you this Wednesday! Pizza and Beer!

Wednesday August 15th SICSA – Pet Adoption Center teams up with Heavier Than Air Brewing Company for a fundraiser, featuring some pizzas off of local menus!

With all of the breweries in town, it is hard to keep a handle on this booming industry.  One of the new kids on the block deserves some love and an honorable mention.

“Heavier Than Air Brewing” in Centerville has been recognized with some awards at the Ohio Craft Brewers Cup.   Heavier Than Air‘s European Pale Ale ESB and their Stout McCook both were gold winners.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE SUMMER PIZZA PARTY FOR SICSA:

WHEN: WEDNESDAY AUGUST 15th from 5:30PM to 8pm

Submarine House Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

WHERE: HEAVIER THAN AIR BREWING COMPANY, 497 MIAMISBURG- CENTERVILLE RD, CENTERVILLE, OH 45459

COST: $5 each to attend the PIZZA PARTY all of which is donated to SICSA.

CASH BAR – $1 will be donated to SICSA for every pint of beer sold.

Beer and pizza sounds great.. so whatcha gonna eat ????

 

MUST EATS:

Pizza from the following restaurants:

— BARGO’S PIZZA
Thin crust, delicious pizza that is always great with beer!

— CENTERVILLE PIZZA and  BBQ’s PIZZA
Hand tossed, nationally award-winning pizzas. They will surely have a unique pie on hand.

— DOUBLEDAY’S MONSTER PIZZA
A cult following has quietly kept this place making hand tossed specialty pies with lots of inventive toppings for decades.

— KING’S NY PIZZA:
Formerly “Johnny’s Slice of NY,” This pizza is authentic New York City Style Pizza. Big Slices, big flavor.

— MACKS TAVERN’S PIZZA
Thin crust pizza cut into tiny squares, this is the only pizzeria that uses diced pepperoni like the serve in school pizza.

— POUR HAUS’ PIZZA
Thin crust pizza, the sauce is delicious too. Look for them to turn some heads with their pizza pies.

Mack’s Pepperoni pizza

— SUBMARINE HOUSE PIZZA
Thin and crispy pizza, we are hoping they feature one of their Philly cheese steak pizzas. Great stuff here !

 

You gotta wash it down ….

 

MUST DRINKS:

— “EARN YOUR WINGS GOLDEN ALE” with BLACK CURRANT:
This is the best beer we have ever had here, hands down. It is a light beer with a hint of blackberries.

— “EARN YOUR WINGS GOLDEN ALE”
This is their lightest beer and it is delicious. Easy drinking and promises to please the “non craft beer crowd.”

Heavier Than Air Brewing on 725

— “MCCOOK BOUND STOUT”
Not our style, but it won an award at the Ohio Craft Brewers Cup. So if you like dark, dark beer… go for this one !

 

Heavier Than Air Brewing Co. will donate $1 for every pint sold to SICSA, and again, entry to the pizza party is $5 per person.  All pizza entry funds will be donated to SICSA, which is set to break ground on a new $5 million facility in Washington Township this fall!   There will also be a chance to win a Heavier Than Air Brewing Co. growler!

 

Food Adventures is a local food blog run by 3 local foodies with a passion for the food that Dayton has to offer.  From wholesome nutrition, to fine dining, dives and home kitchen creations, we leave no plate unturned and throw rules out  the window.  We are honored to have a feature article each and every week right on Dayton Most Metro!

Support this fine charity

Drink up for SICSA !

Pour Haus Taco PIzza

Kings NY Pizza

Doubledays Monster Pizza !

Bargos Pizza

Don’t Fear The Reaper at Pisanello’s

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

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

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

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

 

Welcome to Pisanello’s in Franklin

HERE’S THE SKINNY on PISANELLO’S PIZZA:

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

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

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

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

Spicy Asian Wings – the best on the menu

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

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

 

MUST EATS at PISANELLO’S PIZZA:

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

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

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

—ANY PIZZA:

Loaded Tater Tots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top that

Main Dining Area

more tots and a sandwich

perfect for meetings and parties

by the slice

More upstairs rooms

Dough fixer

Party time

Busy Kitchen

Pizza by the SLICE

Philly Cheesesteak

Cheese and onion

Mild wing

Taking on the REAPER !

Fun times – Franklin Ohio

Murals

Cheseey Bread

The 34 inch REAPER PIZZA !

Pizza with Green Peppers

Make your own pizza

Logo

Spicy Asian wings

Kids make your own pizza

Box it

 

 

Rocky’s Pizza Ring to Host Farewell Pizza Party

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Pepperoni Pizza at Rocky’s

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

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

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

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

 

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

CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS. 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Beer will be sold separately at a cash bar.

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

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

WE PITY THE FOOL WHO MISSES THIS EVENT !!!

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

 

Dining & A Show at the Racetrack

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

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

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

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE SKYBOX RESTAURANT :

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

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

Chicken Quesadilla

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

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

December is Shrimp and Steak for $12.99

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

Deep Fried Pickle Chips !

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

 

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

Not familiar with horse racing?

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

HORSE RACING 101.

Here are a couple horse racing tips on us:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for letting us into your electronic device this week.

Want more Food Adventures from around the Miami Valley? Then join the 7,400+ Dayton Foodies who are following us on Facebook by clicking here and “liking ” our page.

Enjoy our photos below.

“Natcho” – typical night out…

Onion and Shrimp Soup

Fish n Chips

Boneless Wings – Medium style sauce

Cheeseburger and Fries

Pizza with Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Onions, and Green Peppers

Margherita Pizza is the best choice

Babayback Ribs dinner

Overlooking the track

 

 

 

 

Jax’s Recipe For Grilled Spicy Hawaiian BBQ Pizza

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Spicy Grilled Hawaiian Pizza – a Food Adventure on a plate !

Aloha! Jax here, from the Food Adventure Crew with our monthly recipe feature.

School may be starting, but we still have plenty of sunshine and summer  ahead of us! For many of us, summer means using the grill as much as possible. But if you’re falling into a grilling funk, here’s a fun and delicious recipe that is sure to please a crowd. And while this recipe is for a Hawaiian style pizza, get creative and use the base recipe of grilling the dough as a blank canvas for any type of pizza toppings!

You can also grill the dough ahead of time and either keep in the refrigerator for later or freeze!

When ready to eat, top the grilled dough with your favorite toppings and bake in the oven at 375 for about 15 minutes. This recipe is great for feeding a lot of people. You can lay out tons of topping and let everyone make their own!

A Drizzle of Housemade Hot Honey

Grilled Hawaiian Pizza

You’ll need:

  1. 1 lb fresh pizza dough (Bobby Flay has a great recipe)
  2. 6 pineapple rings, about 1 inch thick
  3. 2 jalapeños
  4. ¼ cup red onion chopped
  5. 8 oz shredded mozzarella
  6. 8 oz shredded sharp white cheddar
  7. 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled.
  8. 1 cup bourbon sriracha bbq sauce (recipe to follow)

Directions:

This recipe is great for feeding party sized crowds

Preheat Grill to medium-high heat

  1. Lightly oil pineapple slices and jalapeños. For the pineapple, cook on grill until grill marks are distinct. Flip to grill both sides. For the jalapeño, it will only take 2-3 minutes. Slice up into pieces.
  2. Divide dough into four pieces. Roll out onto oiled piece of parchment paper. Lightly oil the top of the dough. Take dough and flip onto grill. Peel off parchment. Allow to cook until grill marks are distinct (about 3-minutes). Do not flip! Remove from heat and place grilled side up onto an oiled pan.
  3. Top the pizzas with bbq sauce, cheese, pineapple, jalapeno, and red onion. Place back onto grill until bottom is crispy and cheese is melted. You might have to turn heat down to avoid burning.
  4. Finish it off with a drizzle of HouseMade hot honey and bacon crumbled on top!

 

Thats not all Food Adventure fans!  You gotta have a base sauce for that pizza!

 

Bourbon Sriracha BBQ Sauce 

Jackie is known for her recipes & her  Foodie t-shirts

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup bourbon whiskey
  • 2 cups ketchup
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ⅓ cup cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp. liquid smoke flavoring
  • 1½ tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. black pepper
  • 1 tbs HouseMade Sriracha

Directions:

Pre-Grilled PIzza Dough

Bring the onion, garlic and whiskey to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Low heat to a simmer and allow to cook for 10 minutes. Add remaining sauce ingredients to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for 20 minutes. Use BBQ sauce in your favorite recipes or as a dip or topping ingredient.

NOTE:

If you prefer a smooth sauce, run the sauce through a sieve or strainer to remove onion and garlic bits.

The sky is the limit for adding your own toppings

Store in refrigerator and use within 10-14 days.

(Sauce adapted from: here)

There you have it.  A fun summer twist on grilling that is sure to please the masses.

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then follow Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here.

 

Browse the photos below for more about Jax and her recipe.  Stay tuned to Dayton Most Metro every Tuesday for a feature food article from the Food Adventures crew.

Pre-Grilled Pizza Dough option

The sky is the limit on the toppings you choose.

Jax is one third of the Food Adventure Crew. She is an Italian mom, who uses her family as taste testers in her home kitchen. Always “Hungry” she is a passionate foodie, and loves trying new restaurants.

Jax uses her grill for many things from Turkeys to Pizzas

Get your family involved in recipes whenever possible