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Matzo and Lox More at Barry Bagels

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Delicious Bagels and Cream Cheeses await you

In 2014, The Bagel Cafe in Kettering went out of business.  Since then, The Food Adventures crew has felt a void.  In 2017, we have been made full again.

How?

Kettering now has a nice little eatery that is quietly becoming a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner and take out.  It is called Barry Bagels, and if you miss The Bagel Cafe, you’re gonna like this place.

Lets get the scoop, before you get verklempt.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on BARRY BAGEL:

— Founded in 1972 by the late Barry Greenblatt, his family still owns the business, running 10 locations in Ohio

The serving counter gets busy

and Michigan.

— The Kettering Barry Bagel store opened March 2017 and is located at 4313 Far Hills Ave, near the intersection of Shroyer and Far Hills

— Weekday hours are 6:30am-7pm, while Saturday is 6:30am-5pm and Sunday hours are 8am-3pm

— They boil and bake the bagels in-house, and have around 18 choices of Bagel flavors and about 8 different types of Cream Cheeses

Lox and Cream Cheese Sandwich

— They roast and slice their meats on site, making for some delicious bagel sandwiches.

—Every bagel has the option of being toasted… and even buttered.. take advantage.

There are a ton of choices at this place, and after several visits, we have been through the menu and have come up with our patented “must eats.”  So without further delay.. oy vey !

 

HERE ARE THE MUST EATS at BARRY BAGEL:

—LOX and CREAM CHEESE SANDWICH:
Lox are thin slices of salmon that are cured in a salt/sugar mix or a brine. It is not smoked. The salmon is a delicacy, not common in Dayton, but delicious nonetheless. The Lox are served in this sandwich with plain cream cheese and capers. You can add more toppings, but we found this simple combo to be one of the best sandwiches we have ever eaten. This is one of our favorite sandwiches in the Miami Valley. Try this unique “must eat.”

Spinach Bagel with Scallion Cream Cheese

 

—SPINACH FETA BAGEL with SCALLION CREAM CHEESE:
Sometimes our Food Adventures become obsessed with feta, and this is another instance. Try the combo of the spinach bagel and the scallion cream cheese. Such a rich, deep flavor. Savor th is luxury.

—BLUEBERRY BAGEL with STRAWBERRY CHEESE:
Going overboard on berries is a great thing here. Try the strawberry cream cheese on the blueberry bagel. It is like a dessert.

 

Loving the Grape Jelly – buttered and toasted too !

—SESAME SEED BAGEL, TOASTED and BUTTERED with GRAPE JELLY:
Sometimes it is a childhood taste that sets your mood. The jelly on this toasted and buttered bagel works miracles for bringing you back in time.

 

—A VANILLA CINNAMON BAGEL with CINNAMON SWIRL CREAM CHEESE:
Again the combo of flavors is like a dessert. This is a dreamy treat for an easy Sunday morning or a Thursday afternoon pep-up. This will be a favorite combo of yours.. wanna bet?

— TUNA SALAD SANDWICH on an EVERYTHING BAGEL:
We added pickle, lettuce and tomato for a sandwich that is simply “refreshing.” The tuna salad, made daily on site, hit the spot. A perfect choice for lunch on the “go.”

 

—TURKEY SANDWICH with PROVOLONE CHEESE on a WHOLE WHEAT BAGEL:
A very filling roasted turkey sandwich. Add provolone and mayo, and the toppings finish the deal. Playing a sport later? You found your carb and protein fuel.

—PEANUT BUTTER and JELLY SANDWICH on a PLAIN BAGEL:
An ultimate kid indulgence good enough for adults too. Strawberry jelly is our suggestion. Such a gooey and good treat, bring an extra napkin for the ride home.

 

Matzo Ball Soup

—MATZO BALL SOUP:
Where else can you get this stuff in Dayton? A Wonton soup like broth with a big matzo ball in the middle. Served very hot, so be careful. A simple, plain, yet delicate and traditional treat. Channel your inner New Yorker.

 

There you go – our Food Adventure faves…
Other honorable mentions include the Pastrami Sandwich and the Roast Beef Sandwich.

Is this the Carnegie Deli?  No, but it is a solid choice for good bagels and a casual meal in or “to go.”  The menu has some refreshing choices, including giant cookies and we all love Grape Fanta in a bottle !!

Barry Bagels is definitely “on a roll” with good food.  Note – long lines may form on Sundays and during certain rushes.  Be patient, it is worth it.

Grape Fanta in bottles !! And other throwback drinks.

 

Vanilla Cinnamon Bagel with Cinnamon Cream Cheese

Turkey Sandwich

Buckeye Bagel – with vanilla chocolate chips

What is a buckeye bagel ?

Gameday special

Sesame Seed with butter

Chocolate Chip Bagel with Cream Cheese

Blueberry and Blueberry cream cheese

Asiago cheese bagel with Butter

Tuna Salad Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Time

Tuna on Everything Bagel

Back Entry

Platters to go

Roast Beef to go !

Tuna

PB & Jelly

Vanilla Cinnamon bagel with cinnamon cream cheese

Turkey for Lunch

Feel free to browse the gallery below of more Barry Bagel photos.

Are you a foodie?  Get the best Miami Valley foodie scoop every week right here and follow Food Adventures on Facebook HERE.

 

 

 

The Greatest Potato Salad in the World *** Win 2 lbs & Cabbage Rolls ***

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John Mott with his great potato salad

Third Generation Owner John Mott with his Famous Belmont Catering Potato Salad

Are you aware that the greatest potato salad in the world is in Dayton, Ohio? The Big Ragu knows…

YES, it is true!  But many Daytonians already knew that Belmont Catering is the potato salad mecca of the Midwest.  If you are like us, their potato salad has been a special treat at your family functions and holidays for decades.

We will have many foaming at the mouth for this giveaway:

****Comment on the story below and one winner will be chosen at random.  The prize is 2 pounds of Belmont Catering’s famous potato salad and 6 of their cabbage rolls !!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Belmont Catering has been providing the best potato salad you have ever eaten for over 35 years.  It is a Food Adventure in a container….

— Family owned for 3 generations, today’s owner John Mott still sticks to the basics that made the company a success.

— Located on 730 Watervliet Rd. near the intersection of Smithville, you may sometimes see a line out the door. 

— The potato salad is such a cult classic that former Dayton residents have it shipped overnight all over the USA.  One person even overnighted a huge cooler of the stuff to Manhattan in New York City and paid $100 in shipping!  Who does that, unless it is the best potato salad in the world.

Freshly peeled by hand

On busy weekends, Belmont Catering Hand Peels 2,000lbs of Potatoes. Yep, a TON of Potatoes

— Belmont Catering goes through about 500 pounds of potatoes a week, and on holiday weekends they go through 1,500 – 2,000 pounds of potatoes.  Yes, that is a ton of potatoes.   The staff told us that 50 pounds of potatoes makes about 65 pounds of Potato Salad.

— Our biggest tip is CALL AHEAD.  It is best to call in your order 1 or 2 days ahead of time.  If you just stop in, it will be rare for you to find what you need because everything is usually sold out since items are made to order.  You can thank the Food Adventures Crew later for this advice.

 

MUST EATS:  

— THE POTATO SALAD:  OBVIOUSLY .. at $4.25 a pound, there are lines out the door for this stuff.  but why is it so good?  Is it the pimentos?  The Mustard? The Mayonnaise? NOOOO !

Here is the secret to the world’s best potato salad:

1) The potatoes are peeled, rinsed, then SHREDDED like hash browns.  This gives a distinct, one-of-a-kind texture and no hard chunks.

2) No chunks of eggs in the salad.  This is potato salad, not egg salad.  Eggs may or may be in the recipe, but you won’t see any ….

3)  Cleanliness.  The kitchen is immaculate.  The Montgomery County Health Inspectors have given Belmont Catering the highest marks over their last 19 visits to the kitchen.

4) Third Generation Owner, John Mott is still using his Grandmother’s recipe.  And by the way, her recipe will blow your mom’s potato salad out of the water.  It is reminiscent of the movie “What’s Up tiger Lily” where they hunted down a similar recipe, “a salad so delicious you could pltoz.”

 

Storefront on Watervliet

Storefront on 730 Watervliet Ave., Inside is the World’s Greatest Potato Salad

Oh but that’s not all.   Belmont Catering did not build its business on potato salad alone.

There are more, MUST EATS such as:

— CABBAGE ROLLS:  $6.80 for 6 of them, they are also a cult favorite.

— THE BBQ PULLED PORK: Outstanding flavor, and sold at $6.90 a pound

There are many more items, but these are our top favorites.   You can find a list of pick up items HERE, we cannot stress enough the need to call ahead..

And then there is the CATERING aspect of their business.  If you need an event catered, breakfasts, cookouts, or boxed lunches, these are your go to guys.  They pretty much deliver a Food Adventure to your event.   Belmont Catering has built this business for decades with great food and service.

With Labor Day Weekend right around the corner, now is a perfect time to treat yourself to some of the World’s Best Potato Salad !!

Cabbage Rolls - frozen to go, or made fresh to order

Cabbage Rolls – Frozen or Made Fresh to Order

Get down to Belmont Catering on Watervliet, and pick up a taste of great potato salad, but call ahead!  No cookout, picnic, holiday or family event is complete without it!

 

****Who wants to win some of their great food?  Comment below for your chance to win ! ****

Food Adventures is going to giveaway 2 pounds of their famous potato salad and 6 cabbage rolls to one lucky reader!!

To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment below on this story, telling us why you want the goods.  One winner will be picked at RANDOM next week.

There is another way you can be a winner in general, like  Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !  Anything else is just a generic copy..

Check out our photo gallery from our visits to Belmont Catering, below.

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Loose Meat: The Mystery of MAID-RITE Sandwiches

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Classic meal

Maid-Rites with a Little Kings: Click on photo for full effect

Usually when someone says “loose meat” it has never been a compliment, until now.  On the outskirts of the Miami Valley, in the town of Greenville, a legendary burger joint has existed since 1934.  It is called Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe.

Over the years it has developed a cult following.  People drive miles, and even come from out of state to taste their ‘burgers.’  They aren’t even burgers, they are “loose meat sandwiches” or “Maid Rites.”    Why are so many people coming to eat these sandwiches and why are they so good ??   The Big Ragu and Crew set out to solve the mystery.

We have a had a handful of Food Adventures to Maid Rite either after the Darke County fair, or on a whim, or to satisfy an insatiable craving.

Over the years we realized that there are 2 types of people, those that have never tried Maid Rite Hamburgers, and those who have tried it and cant figure out how they make them.

 

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The main attraction is the maid rite loose meat sandwich. The sweet taste of the meat has developed three major theories of how they are prepared 1) Some think they are steamed in pepsi or coke  2) Some claim they are steamed in beer  3) Others say that sugar is added to the meat before cooking.

Out Front

A Greenville Icon Since 1934

— The eatery is a small, no frills, brick building located at 125 N. Broadway St. in Greenville, Ohio and worth the trip.  Locally owned they claim no relation to the MAID-RITE sandwich shop franchises in Iowa etc…

— Limited menu with 4 sandwich choices which include loose meat, chicken salad, egg salad or ham salad sandwiches.  Shakes, sundaes, beer, soft drinks and chips are available too.

— The employees are very protective of the recipe and process of the sandwiches.  We were unable to get the secret recipe after badgering the employees and managers.  We were threatened with spatulas and told we would be picking shards of Little Kings bottles out of our rumps for a week.  Sorry for the letdown, folks.

— For some unknown reason, it is now customary to stick your gum on the outside of the building.   Literally thousands of wads of chewed gum have been stuck on every outside wall of the establishment.

— Bathrooms are located in a separate building around back, adding even more uniqueness and oddness to this place.  They also have a drive up window for a quick meat fix.

How do they make the meat so sweet ???

How do they make the meat so sweet ???

 

MUST EATS:

— THE CHEESE RITE SANDWICH:  This is the classic maid rite sandwich with cheese.  What is a Maid-Rite Sandwich?  Think of it as a sloppy joe but with no sauce. It is served on a soft bun, slapped with meat and toppings, and wrapped tightly in wax paper.   The meat has a sweet taste to it.  This sandwich is topped with a squirt of mustard, a couple of pickle slices and a slice of cheese.  They run about $1.95 and the average person could eat 2 or 3 of them.  You can get the Big Jim version which adds ham, but we prefer the original Cheese-Rite.  Eating one is a unique experience, and you have to try it.  Warning: once you unwrap one, we hold no responsibility for future addiction.

— CHOCOLATE MALT:  Creamy, sinful and made just for you.  You cant go wrong with this delicious, cool classic.

— LITTLE KINGS CREAM ALE BOTTLES: Oh come on , you gotta make it a full blown Food Adventure and wash it down with a icon from Schoenling Brewery.  Ok, wanna be a snob?  Then grab a Heineken instead.

— MIKESELLS POTATO CHIPS:  No fries in this establishment, so choose your hometown chip instead.  They have a nice selection of Dayton’s favorite potato chip.  It is a good pairing with the simple, classic sandwich.

Gum Wall

Click to enlarge: Partial shot of the Gum Wall outside Maid-Rite

 

A couple of sidenotes:  Make sure you bring cash, because that is the only form of payment they accept.  Also, hours are 10am-10pm except Fri and Sat when they stay open until 11pm.

Amazing isn’t it?  A formula for success being a squished, sloppy joe like sandwich served in a small diner with people sticking gum to the walls outside.  But people come back every day in droves.  WHY??  It is the curiously sweet tasting, delicious loose meat sandwiches.  The workers feverishly tossing the ground meat, stuffing buns,  wrapping it quickly, and tossing across the counter.  It is the personality of the place.  If you have never visited this spot, make sure you put it on your “Food Adventure hit list.”   Maid Rite is one-of-a kind.

Want more One-of-a-Kind foodie fun?   Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK BY CLICKING HERE !

 

 

 

Everything From Soup to Crusts at Doubleday’s Restaurant

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The comforting French Onion Soup at Doubleday’s

In the late 1980’s TJ Cinnamon’s was located in Centerville’s Cross Pointe Shopping Center.   Success lead the owners to dive into another Food Adventure.  They rented a space across the parking lot and converted it to sports themed eatery.  They called it Doubleday’s as a tribute to baseball inventor Abner Doubleday.  The next 25 years would see packed parking lots practically every night.  Talk about cult following, the loyalists here come and munch down in droves.   Doubleday’s is a rarity in the restaurant industry, because the menu is huge, yet practically everything is delicious.   It is one of those places you could eat at every week for a couple of years and still need more time for menu items.  Like we said, “everything from soup to crusts” ..pizza crust that is ..

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Opened in the late 1980’s by a Greek family.  Future ownership has kept the menu the same and built a following on consistent quality.

— Huge selection of food items on the menu.  Keep in mind, this doesn’t even include the numerous specials each day.  Gordon Ramsey would have a fit over this length of this menu, but it has worked here for a quarter of a century.  To see the vast 16 page menu, click —>HERE

The refreshing “Chicken Summer Salad”

— This place is popular, so expect a short wait during peak dinner times.

— There is a connected pizza shop called “Monster Pizza,” which serves unique and creative pizza pies with exotic topping combinations.   Monster Pizza is some of the most delicious and underrated stuff out there.   Check out the Monster Pizza Menu —>HERE

— Doubleday’s is a great option for a quick lunch.  Trademark menu items like soups, salads and sandwiches ensure a good match.  Almost every item on the lunch menu is under $7

— Sunday brunch is held Sunday’s from 11am -1:30pm.  The attraction here is about 7 different kinds of omelets.

 

The Food Adventure Crew have tried almost everything on this extensive menu over the past 25 years.  We have earned our stripes, and therefore pass along to you, our patented “Must Eats.”

Stuffed Pretzel Bites: Watch out for squirting cheese

MUST EATS:

— STUFFED PRETZEL BITES:  Yeah, stuffed ! Inside each pretzel ball is jalapeno cheese, and if that’s not enough, you get a bowl of spinach queso for dipping as well.

— BBQ CHICKEN RANCH SALAD:  Doubleday’s is our favorite place to grab a salad.  In a menu highlighted by salads, this is one of our recommendations.  Diced BBQ chicken tops a wonderful iceberg and romaine salad. you have your typical toppings like onions & tomatoes.  But, what makes the salad is the tortilla strips, black beans and lime wedge to squeeze your way to that last touch of flavor.

— SUMMER CHICKEN SALAD:    A seasonal choice, this salad features romaine lettuce, feta cheese, fresh strawberries and pecans doused in a vinaigrette dressing that is to die for.  Of course the salad is topped with medallions of baked chicken.

— CHICKEN POT PIE SOUP: Comfort food in a bowl.  One spoonful will take you back to your childhood, but without all the homework.  Fantastic, creamy taste, with flaky pieces of crust mixed throughout.

— TURKEY CLUB SANDWICH:  Triple decker club sandwich stacked high and laid on its side.  You can’t go wrong with this classic combo of turkey, bacon, lettuce and tomato on wheat toast. Don’t eat the toothpicks holding the sandwich together.

The Chicken BBQ Ranch Salad is a Favorite

— “NIGHT OF THE LIVING MED” MONSTER PIZZA:  It is hard to pick just one Monster Pizza option, but we think this one is the best.  It is a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.  IMPORTANT: We recommend you only order this Mediterranean pizza in the thin crust option.

— FRENCH ONION SOUP:  Gooey cheese and saturated bread in a flavorful onion broth.  You will burn your mouth every time waiting for it to cool down, but it tastes so good you can’t help it.  It is hot, like a volcano, but smooth and soothing.  Go ahead, make your day.

— “IT CAME FROM OUTER GREECE” MONSTER PIZZA:  A unique pizza that you won’t find anywhere else in Dayton.   Kalamata Olives, Grilled Chicken, Spinach and Tzatiki sauce (that white gyro sauce) top the pizza.  Also feta, tomatoes and onions adorn this pie.  So much flavor that, that you will feel Greek for a week.   Quite simply, we love it.

HONORABLE MENTION:  

Potato Soup – This creamy creation is probably their most popular soup.

Voodoo Veggie Monster Pizza:  Loaded, Your choice of red or white sauce.  ‘Nuff said.

Doubleday’s has great sandwiches. Even the grilled cheese is good

Chicken Burrito:  It is as massive as Big Ragu’s head and able to control Hungry Jax hunger!  

Mountain Salad:  This heaping salad was created by Doubleday’s regular,  New York Jets Center and Centerville native Nick Mangold.  A salad that satisfies protein and nutrient needs, it features iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, sauteed mushrooms, onions, cheese and jalapenos.  Topping options include blackened chicken or house sirloin steak.

 

We love Doubleday’s Grill & Tavern because of the quality and variety of food choices.  From healthy options to one’s that would fill Babe Ruth’s appetite, Doubleday’s has something for everyone.  Stop in this hot spot at E. 199 Alex Bell Rd, and see for yourself why there is always a crowd.

Check out our photos below from numerous Food Adventures to Doubleday’s Grill and Tavern.  This is not a drive bye .. eye eye eye eye..

***COMMENT BELOW***  Have you been to Doubleday’s?  Did we miss one of your favorite dishes?   Sound off below so other Food Adventure fans can benefit from your taste buds !

Want more from Dayton’s favorite Foodies on Facebook by clicking HERE !

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Who’d You Rather.. FRICKERS or ROOSTERS ?? **$20 Gift Certificates**

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Boneless Wings at Fricker’s

Want to win a $20 Gift Certificate for your own Food Adventure to Fricker’s or Rooster’s?  Today these perennial sports bar favorites go beak to beak, feather to feather, cluck to cluck.  Which one do you like better?

You can’t deny local wing kings Fricker’s and Rooster’s have been enjoying success in the Miami Valley for decades.  Rumor has it that the Fricker brothers had a falling out.  As a result, one of the brothers went off on his own and opened Rooster’s restaurant as a result.  The family feud was Dayton’s gain.

So Food Adventure fans – we want to hear from you..  which of these saucy sports dives is your favorite?   Whether you like boneless or bone-in, whether you like breaded or grilled chicken, comment below and let your voice be heard.  Why? Because 2 people will be picked at random to win a $20 gift certificate to Frickers and Roosters respectively!  Oh and we wanna see which place has a more loyal following…

 

The Food Adventures Crew sound off on their favorites:

Wings at Rooster’s

Hungry Jax’s Take:  Rooster’s has a bigger salad selection, which is important to me.  I also like the fact that they have more pizza offerings and more sub options.  My vote is for: ROOSTERS”

The Big Ragu’s Take: ” To me it is all about the traditional wings and the sauces.   In my opinion Fricker’s runs away with it on those categories alone.  They have better burgers and better boneless wings as well.  My vote goes to: FRICKERS”

We know that both spots have their strengths like WINGS , BONELESS WINGS, and a great venue to watch sporting events, but lets recap our take on the differences between these two:

 

The Burgers at Fricker’s are surprisingly good

FRICKER’S STRENGTHS:

— Fricker’s offers Ribs.  And guess what, they aren’t bad for a casual sports bar!

— Fricker’s special’s are superior.  They have 40 cent boneless wing specials on Monday nights and 40 cent traditional wings on Tuesdays.   Fricker’s offers a sirloin steak for only $5 on Wednesday nights and $5 chicken chunks on Thursdays.  Also kids eat free everyday.  Saving money is good.

— The Brew City Fries, onion straws and fried zucchini are 3 decent appetizers only found at Fricker’s

— Cheaper beer prices at Fricker’s.  They feature the $2.42 large domestic drafts.  Nothing like a cold one and big screen football.

— The burgers at Fricker’s are bigger.  Quite frankly we think they are better as well.

 

ROOSTER’S STRENGTHS:

Asian Chicken Salad at Rooster’s

— Rooster’s has “Dumpster Fries” which we think is the best appetizer found on either menu.  Try them for a taste of awesome indulgence.

— Rooster’s has a better selection of Sandwiches.  More choices, more options, especially for those counting calories.

— The salad offerings at Rooster’s are more complete.  For those trying to eat healthy, you will have more options at Rooster’s.

— Rooster’s pizza’s are better.  Again, more options for toppings, etc.  If you haven’t eaten their pizza, you will be pleasantly surprised.

— Rooster’s gets the edge in soups.  Something you may not know is that both places have some incredible chili and pretty good New England Clam Chowder.  We have been eating those as a start to a Food Adventure for years.

 

Food Adventures with The Big Ragu and Crew gave their opinion -now it is YOUR TURN !  Who’d you rather get it on with: Frickers or Roosters?

COMMENT BELOW AND  SETTLE THIS BATTLE OF THE LOCAL WING SPOTS !!!

We will pick one winner from each restaurant for $20 Gift Certificates

Visit the often imitated, never duplicated Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking —> HERE !
We are not food critics, we are just foodies that love to eat !!

Browse our photo gallery below from our many Food Adventures to Rooster’s and Fricker’s !!

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Christopher’s Restaurant: Saintly and Sinful

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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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Tank’s Bar & Grill: An Original Dayton Food Adventure

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Wednesday’s Special: Roast Beef Hot Shot a “Must Eat”

Some things are just Dayton born and Dayton bred.  Tanks Bar & Grill on 2033 Wayne Avenue is a Dayton icon, much like The Wright Brothers, U.D. Arena and Dr. Creep.    Opened in 1987 by Dan “Tank” Tankersley, the restaurant has become legendary in a short time.  Although named for the owner, Tank’s name fits well because  they bring out the heavy artillery in their food offerings.  With a kitchen that opens very early and closes very late everyday, this is our kind of place.   A place for foodies, heck it is more than that, it is a place for serious eaters.   Loyalists have given Tanks a cult following, yet many suburbanites are unfamiliar with the spot & want to know,  “Why all the love?”   The answer is big portions of tasty food in a no frills atmosphere.  This is an not a wuss place, the old house has character and if these walls could talk, there would be some good stories.  You gotta love a place with 2 menus at all times.

Get your eat on, you are in the right spot.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Open 7am – 2am everyday, plenty of time for a Food Adventure

— They serve breakfast all day.  Brings a tear to our eye.

— Old School Joint where you wont leave hungry.  The plates are big, but the prices are decent.

If you eat one thing at Tank’s, make it a Burger !

— The Beer Selection is immense.  Lots of weird beers and unfamiliar bottle labels to experiment with and a few seasonal beers on tap too.

 

MUST EATS:

— TANK’S BURGERS:  Are you kidding?  If you go to Tank’s and eat one thing, make it a burger.  People drive-in from all over the place for this stuff.  This is one of the finest burgers in Dayton.  You gotta’ try one.

— OMELET TANK’S WAY: This is a 10 egg omelet with over a dozen choices for ingredients.  A massive, tasty creation with a cheap price.  Chef House goes for the 6 egg omelet called the “girly.”

— ROAD KILL CHILI: As the menu says, this isn’t normal possum, it is the Oakwood kind.  All kidding aside, this hearty chili is a warm splash of happiness.  Doctor it up with some hot sauce and you have yourself one of the best chili’s in the area.

— HOMEMADE CHIP DIP: This isn’t store bought dip, it is made on site.  When you are sluggin’ down a lot of beer, this creamy item is a pretty good accompaniment.

Order off the menu: Get a Turkey Reuben with Slaw instead of Kraut

— WEDNESDAY SPECIAL ROAST BEEF HOT SHOT: An open face sandwich with roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy.  Comfort food at it’s best.  It is a big portion, and again the price is right.  You might want to take a nap an hour after eating this beast.

— HUSHPUPPIES:  These homemade balls of deep fried love are almost as big as baseballs.  Throw a few down your gullet or at your friends.  They have a savory flavor with an addicting taste of sweetness.

— REUBEN:  An amazing Reuben sandwich.  Great bread, makes this sandwich in our humble opinion.  No explanation or elegant description needed.  Just eat it.

 

 

Breakfast All Day, Everyday

Here is a Food Adventure exclusive **SECRET**:  This is NOT on the menu so you will have to ask for it.  Try the Turkey Reuben and ask them to put cole slaw on it instead of sauerkraut.  It is an incredible sandwich that you have to request.  After you are addicted, you can thank us later.  We are serious eaters, we know this shizzle.  We don’t read the menu to tell you about things. We actually eat the food, all of it!    Ask Dayton Mayor Gary Letizell who joined us for one of our Tank’s trips with his assistant Shelly.   They realized this was a Food Adventure almost immediately.

Honorable Mention menu items are the fluffy Waffles, Grilled Cheese Tank’s Way, and the specialty hash browns served in heaping mounds.   And all you fellow foodies, make sure you get the fresh cut fries as a side instead of chips, or we will run you over in a Sherman tank.

Tank’s Bar & Grill has earned its stellar reputation.  It’s not trendy, it isn’t the flavor of the month, nor is it a swanky place where the pretty people eat.   What you see is what you get, and the patrons keep coming back.    If you have not visited this place, make sure you put it on your Food Adventure Hit List.  Daytonians love Tank’s, and so do your humble Food Adventurers.  

Like Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !  We are not food critics, we are just two guys that love to eat.

Check out more than 40 food porn pictures of various Tank’s Bar & Grill favorites in our Food Adventures Photo Album, below.

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Milano’s: A Dayton Food Adventure

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The Atlantic City Italian Sub – Get the baked option with pizza sauce

Atlantic City style subs that would make Snooki proud and Pizza loved by many locals.  This is today’s Milano’s.  But, Dayton Originals like THE FOOD ADVENTURES CREW remember when there was only one Milano’s on Brown Street.   Purists will tell you, the subs tasted better then, because the old ovens were ‘seasoned’ from years of spices burnt into the baking area.  Whether you love the “old school, dirty Milano’s”, or the “clean, modern Milano’s”, you can’t deny that this is one of the most popular eateries in the Miami Valley.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

– Founded in 1969 by Ron Woods and partners after visiting a restaurant in Lima, Ohio named Milano’s.  They loved the food so much, they opened a place in Dayton the next year and decided to name it Milano’s.

– Sold to ThreeWitt Enterprises in 2001, revamped Brown Street location in 2005. Opened 2 more restaurants in 2008 in Beavercreek and Miami Township (St Rt 741).

– All-American style menu with subs, pizza and craft beer selections

– Family Friendly with tableside games and an arcade area that kids enjoy

Little known secret: The Calzones are delicious!

– Great outdoor patio dining area for enhanced fun on good weather days, and it smells better than Atlantic City.

 

MUST EATS:

– Calzones:  A little known fact is that the calzones are great at Milano’s.  Whatever ingredients you get, there is plenty of mozzarella cheese inside to cope with, so use that marinara dipping sauce.

–  Atlantic City Italian Sub:  Capicola, and 2 types of salami topped with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, and spices.  There is an option on this sub where they bake the sub and add pizza sauce.  This is what makes the sandwich, so get the baked option with sauce!

– The CSP Sub:  It comes with capicola, genoa salami, and provolone.  It is topped with the usual lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, and spices.  so good it will make J-Woww say “Wow.”

– Pizza:  We think the sauce is tangy and tasty, so no matter what the toppings, you will have yourself a good “Situation.”   The crust is made from scratch, daily.  Milano’s touts the fact that they were voted favorite pizza in Dayton in 2011.  Try it for yourself and let us know what you think.

– Meatball Sub: Have yourself a meatball day and dive into this saucy little number.   This sub is filling, fun, a tad messy, but worth every bite.

Honorable Mention: The generous order of Garlic bread with Cheese is as big as the Trump Taj Mahal.   The Cheesesteak sub is also worth a try.

Milano’s  has decent side salads that go well with any main event.  They also have a reasonably priced kids menu.  Be warned, this place gets busy during peak lunch and dinner times.

 

Just in the mood for a beer?  The inviting bar area always has some ‘off the wall’ choices on tap or in bottles.  It is a great place to unwind with a cold one.

For the record, the Big Ragu, whose last name is Milano, has nothing to do with ownership of the restaurant.   It doesn’t stop him from playing tricks on the wait staff with his I.D. from time to time.  He wishes he did own it, because the food at Milano’s turns The Food Adventure Crew into a couple of Jersey teens.  Please browse through our photo album below for some amazing pics from our Food Adventures to Milano’s.

If you are one of the few who hasn’t tried Milano’s, or you are new to the Dayton area, take a night and check this spot out.  Go for our “must eats” and see if you enjoy their Atlantic City tastes.

Daytonians, sound off below!!  Are the Milano’s subs better now or did you like the old ovens on Brown Street?  Any other comments? Please share them with us!

Want to see more buns?  Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook HERE !

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Meet Our Gal, ‘Juicy Lucy,’ at Romer’s Bar & Grill

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Romer’s – Much More than Beer-thirty

Food Adventures found another locally owned place, you gotta try.  It is watering hole called Romer’s Bar and Grill, located at 4439 East Franklin Street in Bellbrook, near Wilmington Pike.  When you think of bars, you don’t normally think of homemade food.   That is where Romer’s beats the stereotype, because most things here are homemade.  The atmosphere is hopping and usually loud.  We have been to Romer’s for happy hour drinks, benefit concerts, and Thursday trivia nights.  But, our favorite is visiting during non-peak hours and just having some good food.  During our latest visit, owner Greg Romer came out from the kitchen to tell us he is a Food Adventure fan!  He also explained that many of the dressings, food items and sauces are made in the kitchen from scratch.  Greg grinds the hamburger meat himself and personally shaves thin slices from roasted beef to make their specialty sandwiches.  So which homemade items make us smile?  Here is a breakdown of Romer’s best from your favorite Dayton Foodies.

Romer’s Bar and Grill first made an impact on us at the Chicken Wing Festival at Fraze Pavillion, two years ago.   If you like wings, you gotta try Romer’s.  We would suggest the “Asian Persuasion” wing flavor.   Appropriately named, the sauce is made in-house and delivers a sweet thai pepper taste with a light touch of heat.  The wings here are crunchy and cooked just right.  We also recommend the hot bbq sauce and the dry rub option.  The wings are available breaded, but we prefer them naked… who doesn’t?

Hand Breaded Jalapeno Poppers

We digress into another inappropriate topic when we talk about Turkey Balls.  They are not what you think.  Food Adventurers recognize this interesting name as a homemade appetizer at Romer’s.  We tried these delicious appetizers which are pretty much “Thanksgiving dinner rolled into a ball.”   The turkey balls are made with dressing, mashed potatoes and of course turkey.  The mixture is rolled into a ball the size of a large meatball, and is coated with panko crumbs.  The turkey balls are then pan fried, and covered with a light brown turkey gravy.   As we sliced the turkey balls, steam rose and we fought over the turkey gravy for dipping rights.  These heavy appetizers are perfect for sharing, and are as addicting as Saturday Night Live’s “Schweddie” skit brand name.

Looking for something a little more spicy?  Romer’s  hand breads their own Homemade Jalepeno Poppers.  What other restaurant in the Dayton area does that?  The heavy breading and spicy insides make this a good choice if you are hungry and want to heat things up.  Another fantastic appetizer that is the Big Ragu’s favorite is the Memphis Fried Pickles.  Hand cut into chip like slices, then hand breaded, these pickles are served with a dipping sauce.  They are a very addicting, yet very filling appetizer that you have to try.

The Beef N Cheddar – Slow Roasted Beef, Sliced in-house

There is no doubt of what the specialty is at Romer’s.   It is homemade, slow-roasted, beef sandwiches.  There are three of these special sandwiches, and they are “must eats.”   Chef House is our resident expert on shaved beef , and her favorite is the Beef N Cheddar.    This sandwich is made sliced to order, so it is fresh and delicious.  Romer’s also does it right.  They top it with cheddar cheese sauce.  The experts in Philadelphia do it this way, and so does Romer’s Bar and Grill.   The sandwich is served on Sour Dough bread and is simply magnificent.  The beef is delicate and moist.  The sandwich will fill you up and is a great meal deal at under 8 bucks.  Most get a side of saratoga chips, but we suggest the waffle fries with these sandwiches.  You won’t be disappointed.

Inside a ‘Juicy Lucy’ Burger

Continuing with our favorite things at Romer’s, we dive into the topic of  Burgers.  All the burgers are ground in-house to ensure great taste.  What burger is best?  Sure, you can build your own burger or chicken breast sandwich with toppings, cheese and sauce.  But wouldn’t you rather  step it up to the big leagues?  Then order a burger at Romer’s that will knock your socks off,  the Minnesota Juicy Lucy.  Owner Greg Romer developed this after seeing a similar sandwich on a food show.  The Juicy Lucy is a 1/2 pound burger stuffed with provolone, pepperoni and jalapenos.  The result is a tasty burger that oozes cheese with every bite from inside the burger.  This is a true Food Adventure item for taste and uniqueness, which is what Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu are all about.   Make sure you grab a Juicy Lucy.

We do have one tip on what not to grab.  Don’t grab a seat by the door to the smoking patio.  Since Romer’s gets busy, many people come in and out of that door to smoke.   Take advantage of their selection of beers on draught, but don’t sit by the patio door unless you want a wind draft.   Be forewarned the place gets noisy during peak hours.  It is a fun atmosphere, but if you want quiet conversation, hit this place during slow times like early lunch hours.

There are many other good menu items we like at Romer’s that are worth mentioning.  The Reuben is good, how could it not be with the slow roasted touch?  They also have good thin crust pizzas.  They are a popular with kids and a good value at $11 for a large cheese pizza.  Even with our many trips to Romer’s we have not completely tapped the constantly evolving menu.   Currently they are featuring a Lenten menu insert and feature a fish fry on Friday’s with thick, pub style battered fish.  Romer’s Bar and Grill is yet another locally owned  gem, that many people may not have heard about.  Take the time to stop in, and visit the friendly staff like Lanette, who is our favorite server.  Next time you are hungry, tell your friends you want to grab some turkey balls and see your friends Reuben and Juicy Lucy!

Have you been to Romer’s Bar and Grill?  Please comment below on your experiences with their unique menu.

The Food Adventure Crew says “like” us on Facebook, but love us in your hearts by clicking here !

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Food Adventure to Charlie’s Deli and Catering

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 Sometimes, you just have to “kick it old school.”  Being lifelong residents of Dayton, Food Adventures appreciates the history of the Gem City.  One of these spots is the oldest delicatessen in the Dayton area, Charlie’s Deli and Catering. 

Located at 429 Troy Street, this popular German influenced sandwich shop has been feeding the masses since 1964.  They are located in Old North Dayton for a reason.  Back in the early sixties, the area was not called Old North Dayton, but was nicknamed “Texas” or “Parma.”   Many German immigrants and families from Eastern Europe occupied the neighborhood.  Charlie’s Deli was created to match the demand for authentic German fare and imported items.

Started by Charlie Vangas, the deli is now owned by Charlie’s son Rod Vangas and his wife, Becky.  They still hold on to tradition here, and even have a photo of  Charlie with Channel 7 news legend Don Wayne.  But the old school atmosphere is only the beginning.  Charlies Deli and Catering prides itself on serving tasty sandwiches with freshly sliced lunch meats Monday thru Friday from 7:15 am – 6 pm.  They are  open Saturdays 9am – 3pm and closed on Sundays.  The menu has a wide variety of tastes and you could spend a lunch hour just reading the uniquely named sandwiches (click here to see what we are talking about).  The prices are a great value, with most sandwiches ranging from $4.50 – $6.75.  We love the great choices of breads and buns for your sandwich, and appreciate that they use Springfield’s own Woeber’s Mustard varieties on many sandwiches.
The first specialty sandwich served at Charlie’s was the “Black Forest Sandwich” and it still remains a popular choice today.   It is comprised of roast beef, super sharp cheese, bacon, tomato, mayo or Woeber’s horseradish mustard, served on your choice of German Rye, Kaiser Roll or Onion Bun.
We all agree on our favorite deli sandwich at Charlie’s.  It is called “The Mesquite,” and is mesquite smoked turkey breast, kojak cheese, lettuce and tomato.  The sandwich is finished with a hot pepper cherry relish that makes the sandwich.  Grab one of these for a spicy, tasty Food Adventure on a bun.  It is available in the small size, priced at $3.95 or go all out and pay $6.50 for the 8 inch sub.  We would also tell you to try the  “Yipee-ki-ay Sandwich”, inspired by Bruce Willis in the movie “Die Hard.”  This sandwich is Roast Beef with a slab of Swiss cheese.  The incredible mushroom sauce topping makes this a delicious and messy sub.

Whether your sub choice is a Reuben or a Cuban, you will be back for more.  Even the pulled pork is dynamite sandwich.  Want a goal for 2013?  If you eat all of the sandwiches on the menu, you get a free Charlie’s Deli T-shirt ! We also enjoy many of the side dishes at Charlie’s, like the cole slaw, potato salad, and those wonderful pickled eggs.
Another menu item worth trying is the “Chi-Dog.” This Chicago Style, Vienna all beef wiener is loaded sport peppers, garlic pickle wdges, chopped onions, tomato, sweet relish, yellow mustard and served on a poppy seed bun.
With winter in full swing, now is a good time to enjoy the specialty soups at Charlie’s.   Regulars flock to get Chicken  Spaetzel Soup or the Wisconsin Cheese Soup.  More traditional hot soups include country potato, vegetable beef, and ham and bean.  Don’t forget about their chili!  It is meaty, old fashioned and hits the spot.  Want something hot but a little more filling?  Try their famous cabbage rolls.  The family recipe is a hit with the locals and is sure to please your taste buds.

 

This place has a ton of character.   We suggest that you dine in the back room like we did, where there is a lot of scenery among the various  items on the shelves.  Charlie’s is a great place for a Food Adventure because the deli fare is fantastic and you can browse among the German imports and other items around the store.  Charlie’s is the biggest Dayton area importer of German goods.  They have a huge selection of German Import Beers.   They even have a deal where you can make your own variety 6-pack from over 100 kinds of beer.
Where else in Dayton can you eat a freshly sliced deli sandwich in the dining area, while browsing various imported vinyl records from Germany?  Charlie’s is a place where pick up some rare boxes of German cookies, breads, and jars of hard to find items,  all while eating a tuna salad pita.   Charlie’s Deli and Catering is our kind of place.  Dayton is lucky that the Vangas family imports so many unique foodstuffs and provides great eats.  Charlie’s is big on quality, personality, and taste but is also a big part of Dayton’s soul.

 

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Thyme for a Food Adventure

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The Cheesesteak at Steak Thyme

Have you tried Steak Thyme on Wilmington Pike in Kettering?  If not, you are missing out on a sub shop and so much more.  As you may know, The Food Adventure Crew are not food critics, we are just people who love to eat, and we found a gem of a place.  This family owned restaurant has been cranking out good food for the past 8 years.  Steak Thyme’s menu features various Philly cheesesteak style sandwiches.  These sandwiches start with 100 percent pure angus beef and are cooked with a special thyme seasoning from which the eatery gets its name.  The tasty subs are then topped with fresh toppings depending on what was ordered.  Not a steak lover?   Steak Thyme offers ham, chicken, or turkey as your meat substitute instead of angus.  Types of subs range from the Greek Chicken Philly, topped with feta and olives, to the BBQ Cheddar Steak.  Fresh cut fries or onion rings add the perfect side to these comfort food specialties.Thyme Seasoning on the Angus Burgers

Steak Thyme’s menu also offers 100 percent certified Angus Burgers sprinkled with the special Thyme Seasoning.  In fact, many of the menu items have this Thyme Seasoning infused in them.  Gret tastes and we love the great values that really stretch your dollar!  Looking for a great deal?  The current special is the Gyro combo for only 6 bucks!  Additional lunch or dinner choices include salads, wraps and Cincinnati Style Chili Cheese Dogs that melt in your mouth.

Steak Thyme is a little known secret, but regulars realize it is a great place to get a quick, delicious meal.  They even have a convenient drive thru. The Big Ragu is a big fan of Steak Thyme.  It is a great place for certified Food Adventure!  If you have not tried this casual dining spot, it’s thyme you went there!

Their Chili Cheese Dogs are Big !

Have you had a chance to eat at Steak Thyme? 

What are your thoughts on this “mom and pop” place?

Dont forget to “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Stay tuned to DaytonMostMetro.com for more Food Adventures from these Dayton Foodies

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19 Beers and The Perfect Burger: One Eyed Jacks

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The University Shopping Center across from Wright State’s Nutter Center is a unique place to eat. You have the normal options of Subway, McDonalds, Bob Evans, etc… but in the mix of the mediocre there are a few places like Jeet, The Flying Pizza, and Tiks Thai Express dishing out some really good food. But, my favorite is One Eyed Jacks. Founded April 14thof 2008, Jacks has been serving up cold beer and hot burgers straight to the mouths of Wright State Students for years.

Busy behind the bar shot at One Eyed Jacks.

Friday night crowd keeping the bar busy on a Friday.

The brilliance of One Eyed Jacks lies in its mix of quality atmosphere, food, and drinks. During the day, Jacks is perfect for winding down with a cold beer and a burger, but on a weekend night the mood changes. As people roll in, the band sets up, and the group conversations all merge into a wall of sound and you find yourself in a pure party setting.
There is no musical prejudice at Jacks.  The Rumpke Mountain Boys had several people trying their hand at a jig with others bumping, grinding, and yes hula-hooping to their wonderful bluegrass twang. Upcoming acts like Cappadonna from the Wu Tang Clan (Mach 30th) will undoubtedly have a lot of people bouncing around the stage trying some new moves that maybe they shouldn’t.  With smiles everywhere, band playing, the bar hostesses hard at work, and the kitchen buzzing, it is impossible to have a bad time at Jacks.

The 2am Burger at One Eyed Jacks

Egg, Burger, Bacon, Hashbrowns... That is all you need to know.

With all of that atmosphere, it would be a shame if there wasn’t substance to back it up. Jacks does not disappoint. The Veggie Zaffer (my regular choice) is the most amazing piece of late night satisfaction in Dayton. Two house sauces, siracha-kraut (a creative twist on kim-chi) and tatonka   (a mildly spicy cream sauce) sit on a huge spicy black bean burger with cheese, onion, and swiss. It is spicy, rich, and if you think you need meat to have a good burger, this will prove you wrong. While the Zaffer is fantastic on its own, it is served with a mound of hot, perfectly greasy, seasoned, and battered french fries. There are few words outside of addictive that I would use to describe these flawless fries. While I am prone to ramble on about the $7.99 Zaffer basket and how every order should be placed with extra tatonka and blue cheese on the side their other options are something too.

Like the “2am” burger. For $7.99 you get a large beef patty sitting atop a hash brown and covered with cheddar, ketchup, bacon, and an egg. Or, if you’re just a little peckish share some pizza nuggets ($7.99) stuffed with cheese and pepperoni served up with marinara for dipping. The whole menu from pizza to wings, from burgers to salads is consistently good, packed with flavor, and reasonably priced all under $10.

An appitizer platter at One Eyed Jacks

The pickle spears are fantastically crunchy.

Open 11am-2:30am Monday through Saturday and 12pm-2:30am on Sunday, One Eyed Jacks is a fantastically assembled bar with great service, 19 beers on tap, fantastic food, and a variety of music that few rival. (Not to mention $3 shots of Jameson on the 14th of every month.) Head to Jacks if you are down for a fun night with good people.