soft

Hard or Soft ? K & R Pretzel Bakery asks… + win $20 worth of Pretzels

January 20, 2016 By Dayton937 45 Comments

Second Generation owners of K & R Pretzel Bakery, sister and brother team of Pattie & James Glaze are now serving Hard Pretzels too !

For the first time in 10 years, the K & R Pretzel Bakery is offering Hard Pretzels, made on site. Yes, it is true, you can have them hard or soft now.

We are also giving away $20 worth of product from this bakery, just comment below for a chance to win.

Have you been to this bakery? It is in a neighborhood, near the corner of Patterson and Woodman Dr. It is one of the most interesting Food Adventure spots we have ever encountered. And we discovered, there is a lot to love about this place.

K & R reminds many Daytonians of their childhood elementary school days, and 10 cent pretzel Tuesdays. These exact pretzels were the ones we ate as kids. We are very happy to have found the place where they make these soft bites of heaven.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Tucked into a neighborhood at 1700 Flesher Avenue in Kettering, is a humble building with a great products and a great prices. They are open Tues – Fri 10am – 4pm, and Sat 11am-4pm.

— K & R Pretzel Bakery is a family owned business and the entire operation is based on a huge soft pretzel making machine, and a hard pretzel stone oven.

The Hard Pretzels now being served at K & R Pretzel Bakery on Flescher Ave, near the Woodman and Patterson intersection

— Started in 1967 by Karen & Ralph Glaze, hence the K & R name, Ralph learned pretzel making from a German pretzel maker. In their heydey, they manufactured 7,000 pretzels a day.

— Today the bakery is run by the next generation, siblings Pattie and James Glaze. The friendly duo have carried on the tradition of their parents. If you have not been here, you are missing out on a piece of Dayton nostalgia.

— The machine which cooks the tremendous soft pretzels on a conveyor belt method. Simple huh? Make good pretzels, and they will come. They have perfected the treat, and K & R’s Soft Pretzels, are some of the best we have ever eaten. (Although Chef House is a die hard fan of Smales Pretzel Bakery)

GET THEM HARD- Here’s how they get them hard at K &R Pretzel Bakery:

— The old brick oven is heated up, and the soft pretzels and dried out until hard. The oven is about as big as a closet, and looks very old fashioned. (Did you know hard pretzels were discovered by accident when a baker fell asleep and cooked the pretzels too long?)

They have fired up the old brick oven and started making Hard Pretzels again after over a decade !

— The hard pretzels are packaged into bags of 20 each, and sold for $4.00

— WARNING! When we say “hard,” these babies are hard! Great for dipping in all kinds of dips, cheese, mustard, or even beer!

GET THEM SOFT- Here is the process K & R uses to make some of the world’s most delicious soft pretzels:

— First, they brought a tray of already twisted pretzels out and laid them on the metal conveyor belt at the front of the machine.

— The pretzels get a water bath then they are hand salted before they enter the machine’s oven.

— The pretzels then make their way through oven part of the machine and come out piping hot at the end. In fact, they are so hot you can barely hold on to them.

The whole process takes about 10 minutes, and you can choose with salt, without salt or light salt.

The Big Ragu will go on record as saying “K & R has the best Soft Pretzels in the world.”

Watching this machine work is a mini-event in itself. It is a great place to bring kids, as it has a slight, old Willy Wonka feel to it, and it is a memorable place with lots of personality.

Our important tip on the soft pretzels: The fresher these pretzels are, the better they taste. It is better to eat them now than later. They even sell various packaged sauces for dipping your pretzel, but we like them plain or with mustard.

Oh but wait, there’s more …. K & R Pretzel Bakery also has one of the most extensive offerings of “old time” candies we have seen recently. Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu and Chef House share some of their favorites below.

Win $20 worth of pretzels by commenting below, we will pick a winner at random next week.

OTHER MUST EATS:

— CANDY CIGARETTES: Where else on earth can you corrupt your nieces or nephews with some candy cigarettes for only 25 cents a pack? At that price, the candy cigarettes are a steal.

Who remembers Candy Buttons on paper ?

— CANDY BUTTONS: As a kid, do you remember candy buttons on a piece of paper? They have the exact same candies as K & R Pretzel Bakery.

— SWEDISH FISH: Chewy and flavorful, just like you remember them. They might pull out a filling or a loose tooth, but the taste is worth it.

— BUBBLE GUM CIGARS: Green, yellow, pink and other colors, the gum cigars were always favorite. Your jaws will be sore after taking this trip down memory lane.

— CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS: White or milk chocolate covered pretzels. You can’t go wrong here with this treat. Best served around the holidays, or tucked into a bag somewhere so you can indulge yourself.

Honorable Mention: K & R Pretzel Bakery has popcorn for sale too. The popcorn, popped on site are in little or large bags.

Hard to find, Nostalgic Candy like “Sugar Babies”

They even have a cooler with cold soft drinks.

The bakery is old and unique. It is different and some may say odd, but we love this place. They maintain their roots and the pretzels have the same great taste with a recipe that is unchanged for decades. Every time we are in the area, we try and stop by for a pretzel or three.

Now, how do like them Hard or Soft? Get down there and find out. Order your pretzels today!

Please browse even more photos of the bakery below.

WANT A CHANCE at $20 WORTH OF PRODUCTS at K & R PRETZEL BAKERY?

JUST COMMENT BELOW AND ONE WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM NEXT WEEK.

Like this article? Food Adventures writes feature articles, every week, right here on DaytonMostMetro.com , highlighting local eateries, festivals, food stops and more. Join the more than 5,000 fans following us on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Soft Pretzels

Bags of Hard Pretzels for Sale

Bubble Gum Cigars

The Big Ragu getting some pretzel goodness

Pattie takes fresh pretzels from the machine and bags them up

The machine that makes the pretzels

Mustard with that?

Bakery at 1700 Flescher Ave

Candy cigarettes for 25cents

Incredble

Satellite Wafers

Popped on site

Chocolate covered

Size comparison

Old oven with Hard Pretzel Racks

Signage

Swedish fish

Soft or Hard? SOFT on this one

Hand thrown salt

Up close

Dogs and Burgs

Kookabura lives in the old gum tree

Slices

Soft Pretzels since1967

Pretzel Bath

30 Dayton Foods, You Gotta Try Before You Die

September 4, 2014 By Dayton937 68 Comments

The Chicken Monterey at Flavors

Now that Labor Day weekend is over, here are some of OUR labor of loves.. tastefully speaking, of course. That is the theme of this week’s Food Adventure Article They are the 30 best foods of the Miami Valley that you probably haven’t tried.

Little known Dayton Foods that are underground classics.

Now that you know the skinny, let’s get down and dirty with our Thirty.

These are the are the 30 DAYTON MUST EATS You gotta Try, Before You Die:

1) THE SPLIT FILET SERVED WITH DRAWN BUTTER at THE PARAGON: This steak isn’t on the menu, so you have to request it. It is a little known secret that will melt in your mouth. Perfectly cooked, the sinful act of dipping the steak in drawn butter is something for royalty. Try it and see why the Paragon Supper Club is a fixture in Centerville.

2) CHICKEN MONTEREY from FLAVORS: Healthy meets savory in this dish. Honestly, one of our favorite meals in the Dayton area. The food is consistent. Why? Quality, fresh ingredients. Chicken Monterey is a solid dish every time. It is served with a side of tortilla chips and the amazing garlic sauce (now available at Dorothy Lane Market). And guess what, it is a healthy meal. What more can you ask for ?

The Caroline Steak, at The Caroline Restaurant in Troy

3) SPRING ROLLS WITH VERMICELLI NOODLES at LITTLE SAIGON: The best $8 you will ever spend. Dip into the giant bowl with a pair of chopsticks and enter a Food Adventure. Vermicelli noodles, topped with diced, vegetarian spring rolls. Under the noodles, is a surprise of bean sprouts and lettuce. Served with a side of vinegar sauce and topped with chopped peanuts, this little know Dayton gem is your go to for Vietnamese Food.. Trust Us ….

4) THE CAROLINE STEAK at THE CAROLINE RESTAURANT: You will be in awe of the special, stainless steel knife served with the meal, but don’t take it home like some others have… Choose the handmade sweet potato fries as a side dish and an appetizer of whiskey or bourbon mushrooms, and this will be one of the best meals you will ever have. We have to mention that the great staff makes The Caroline a perfect places for a date, party, or special occasion.

5) BLACK BEAN BURGER at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: We have never been black bean burger fans, until we met Chef John at the Centerville Farmer’s Market. We tried one that was being grilled at the market, and was converted. We respect the black bean now. The burger is large, hearty and filling. We recommend adding a slice of cheese. It satisfies your carnivorous cravings.

6) 10 EGG OMELET FROM TANKS: One of the things we learned growing up in Dayton, is that there aren’t many late night eateries. Thank God for Tanks. If you love breakfast, they serve it any time of the day. This is a delicious omelet that will bust your gut, and you wont eat the potatoes or toast that comes with it. If you have a normal appetite, we recommend the 6 egg girly omelet. The omelet has a multitude of ingredients, and whatever Tanks decides to throw in that day.

The Cheese and Onion Sandwich from Central Perc in Oakwood

7) GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH with WHITE CHEDDAR and APRICOT CHUTNEY from MEADOWLARK: One of the most simple sandwiches, is one of the most satisfying. Ohio Northern Cheddar and apricot chutney make this incredible cheese sandwich. Served on Dorothy Lane Market Artisan Bread, you have a guaranteed winner here. After you it it, you will find yourself trying to replicate it at home.

8) CHEESE AND ONION SANDWICH from CENTRAL PERC: For the adventurous, we give you a British Sandwich. How do you get one? Ask the owners who grew up in a small village in England to make it they way they way grew up with..ahem.. the “proper” way. They will probably throw some butter and Branston Pickle on there (you may want to google this pickle). Your breath will be horrendous, but you will be happy. On a side note, Rosie the pastry chef is insanely talented. An incredible sandwich and tea room that is open limited hours, and accepts Cash Only.

9) BLACK N BLEU BURGER from SEAJAX: The new kid on the block, this burger is a symphony for your taste buds. We have been all over like Terry’s Turf Club which was supposed to be the best Ohio burger per Guy Fieri, but we think this one is better. Spend $8 and get a “corporate hamburger” (thank you Michael R Hawk), or spend $10 and get a handmade hamburger with swirled bleu cheese that will knock your socks off.

Summer in a Bowl Salad from Olive, an Urban Dive

10) THE BOURBON BURGER from BRIXX ICE CO.: This is one of our favorite burgers in the world. It is a burger with bourbon glaze on it that makes you cry “hell yes.” Great patio for the divas, but we prefer the bar stool seats and chowing down. Thanks to childhood friend, owner/chef Chris Bhai for the developing a sauce that makes this burger a “must eat.”

11) HUEVOS RANCHEROS from SUNRISE CAFE: We crave this incredible breakfast dish from the best kept secret in Yellow Springs. The dish is corn tortillas, topped with eggs, and a black bean sauce, garnished with fresh salsa and sour cream. Dont go hiking, instead, grab breakfast here. They trumpet the fact that they have no deep fryers, no microwaves, just kick butt food. Worth the trip to organicville.

12) SUMMER IN A BOWL SALAD from OLIVE, an URBAN DIVE: Local freshness, local ingredients. We absolutely love it. If an artist made a salad, it would be “Summer in a Bowl.” We can’t put the ingredients on here, because the ingredients are seasonal. Olive, only uses top quality materials. Open your mouth and prepare to be dazzled. It wont bust your budget or your pant line.

13) CALAMARI APPETIZER at FRANCO’S: Get the deep fried option dusted with Parmesan cheese and olive oil. The Big Ragu, the king of fried food, usually says “Oh my god” in a over dramatic tone when they are served. This is a tradition, when preparing for a big Italian meal at Franco’s. Stay hungry my friends…

14) THE PAELLA from EL MESON: Watching them prepare it is half of the fun. Listening to owner Bill Castro explain his passion for food and the pivotal role food plays in life is a great experience in itself. Chef’s sprinkling rice and seafood shells while walking around the huge paella pan and flirting with the crowd. By the time the dish is served we have teased our eyes and the aroma is amazing. We love this family and their food. Try this place out, if you haven’t, you aren’t experiencing Dayton.

15) WHOLE, DEEP FRIED TILAPIA at TACO LOCO: You can go to another restaurant and get this dish for $30 or you can get it for $8 at Taco Loco. The dish that will freak your friends out, but leave you one happy foodie. If you can stomach a whole fish on your plate looking at you, then this one is worth the stares… literally. It is delicious and simple.

16) THE GRILLED PEACHES with GOAT CHEESE at LILY’s BISTRO: A seasonal treat that should be on the menu every month. A stellar dish that steals the show at any meal. Drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, this memorable side will blow your mind. Thank you Lily’s for making us crave this on a daily basis….

Sweeney’s Seafood House has the Best Raw Oysters in the USA. Click to enlarge

17) THE RAW OYSTERS at SWEENEY’s SEAFOOD HOUSE: The Big Ragu has tried oysters from coast to coast and north to south. He concludes that the best raw oysters on the planet are at Sweeney’s Seafood. Served on the half shell, these are chokers, not for the squeamish. Grab a bottle of hot sauce and one of their micro brews and sling em back like a champ!

18) SPINOZIAN DELUXE PIZZA from SPINOZA’S: Homemade, fresh dough with Italian sausage, pepperoni, black olives, bell peppers,mushrooms and fontina cheese. The pizza is always good here. The crust is exceptional. Pair it with one of their great salads and listen to a live band and sip on some local beer. Not many people know about this place, but the ones that do, love it!

19) THE LAND AND SEA BLT at HARVEST MOBILE FOOD TRUCK: This sandwich kick so much azz, that it won $10,000 for best dish at a Food Truck Rally. Applewood bacon, smoked salmon and a ciabatta roll. Then Harvest adds a sauce that is the money shot. Follow this truck and see why poeple track them down all over town. Chef Patrick continues to blow us away with cluinary creations.

20) LOX & CHEESE CREPE at CREPE BOHEME: An ingredient list so simple, so good. Salmon, capers and cheese all wrapped into a handmade crepe right before your eyes. One of the reason we go to 2nd St. Market is to savor the crepes at Crepe Boheme. Sabine is the ultimate crepe master, and her works of art will never let you down. This is the real deal, a chef making the crepes.

21) THE PARIS OMELET at BUTTER CAFE: Love breakfast? Love mushrooms? We suggest a spin using egg whites, goat cheese, a bit of onion and lot of mushrooms. You haven’t lived until you take a bite of this omelet while overlooking Brown Street. Guess what? It is affordable and a protein powered breakfast.

The Ruck Sandwich from Dublin Pub

22) SHRIMP and SCALLOP NEWBURG at THE DOCK: A creamy alfredo dish, with penne pasta. This is like a pasta bake. It is rich and delicious. Can’t afford a trip to Florida? Escape to The Dock in Enon and buy yourself a dinner dream, just like being on a pier.

23) THE RUCK from THE DUBLIN PUB: This is a dense beef brisket sandwich that is simply incredible. The brisket is steamed in Guinness Beer. Topped with glob of cheese and onions, it is delicious. It is a filling, guilty pleasure. After eating this, you may want to call Richard Simmons to chase you around the yard in his ball hugging shorts and burn off the calories. Or go hiking for his physique.

24) THE GYRO at CHICAGO GYRO’S and DOGS: Forget the fries, the sandwich is all you need. Loaded with meat, perfectly seasoned, it is a master piece as-is. The atmosphere used to be sketchy at the old location, but the new location is kid friendly. The gyros and dogs are still the same .. good food. This place flies under the radar, and is an unsung Gyro..get it ?

Cow Patty Ice Cream even cures PMS.. that’s no Bull !

25) DEL MAR TRIO at EL RANCHO GRANDE: Want a great dish, at an unsuspecting place? The order the Del Mar Trio at El Rancho Grande. It consists of grilled lobster, tilapia and shrimp sprinkled with cheese on a hot fajita plate. Served with tortillas. Orgasmic.. yeah we said it.. Order one of these dishes and tell us we’re wrong.

26) COW PATTY ICE CREAM from YOUNG’S JERSEY DAIRY: We love this chocolate amazingness, and our friend Caryn Snyder says it is “the ultimate cure for PMS.” It is dark chocolate ice cream, chocolate cookie pieces, chocolate covered toffee pieces and mini chocolate chips. The cones are piled high and worth the drive to hippie Utopia.

27) THE PIZZA at SOFT ROCK CAFE: Yes, a karaoke bar has some decent pizza. We don’t know if it is the thin crust, the cheese, or the toppings, but the pizza is addicting. Our tip is to get at least 3 or more toppings, and try not to burn your mouth, the pies come out HOT! Also, *** please note their kitchen is only open Thursday through Saturday at 8pm for weekend indulgence.

28) FISH WITH CHILI SAUCE at THAI9: This huge filet of golden fried fish is topped with a spicy chili sauce, and plated with a small amount of sauteed veggies. The taste is slightly fiery and incredible. The chili oil soaks into the fish, yielding the flavor, but keeping the crispiness. A little known dish, off the beaten path, at a restaurant with a very extensive menu. Try it !

The Greatest Soft Pretzels EVER are at K & R Pretzel Bakery on Flesher St.

29) THE PLAYBOY ROLL at KABUKI: Nothing says fun like a couple of grown adults trying to blow out a flaming sushi roll. The roll contains Shrimp Tempura, Spicy tuna, and asparagus topped with cooked shrimp and a sweet glaze sauce. It is then “barbecued” at your table, by being served on fire, inside an aluminum pouch. The spectacle is one thing, but the best thing is whats inside the fiery roll of foil. The answer is a scrumptious taste of Japan, right here in Dayton.

30) THE PRETZELS from K&R PRETZEL BAKERY: These should be a Dayton Icon, but not many people know of this secret place at 1700 Flesher Ave. Like a scene from Willy Wonka, the pretzel machine is fed a hand twisted raw dough pretzel, the dough is mechanically dipped in water, then hand salted before it is baked on a conveyor belt. The machine is as long as a limousine, and it is fun watching the finished product come out at the end. It is even more fun to eat the results: A soft pretzel, that is the best we’ve tasted.

These are our 30 DAYTON MUST EATS, You gotta try before you die. Little known secrets, and favorite hidden gems. DID WE LEAVE OUT ONE OF YOUR FAVES? WHICH ONE? Is there one on the list you disagree with? Are some of these items, your favorite too? Please comment below!

Please check out our gallery below and “like us on FACEBOOK HERE ! We have some big things coming up this fall ! Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu thank you !

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Haunted Houses, Pad Thai & FREE DVD CONTEST

August 1, 2014 By Dayton937 9 Comments

Chicken Pad Thai – A staple on the menu at Siam Pad Thai.

What does Pad Thai have in common with Haunted Houses? That’s easy. A Food Adventure, celebrating today’s nationwide DVD release of local horror film “Haunted House on Sorority Row.” Want to win a free autographed copy of this scary ass movie? All you have to do is comment below, and one winner will be chosen at random.

The Food Adventure Crew recently sat down with the film’s director, Henrique Couto and cast members Erin Ryan and Joni Durian..

The Food Adventure took place at Siam Pad Thai on Wilmington Pike, a favorite spot of both Big Ragu & Henrique Couto. We ate and talked about the film, various favorite foods and favorite horror flicks. Everyone was very excited about the release of the DVD. We let the noodles and the comments fly!

First, let’s start with the film HAUNTED HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW…… now available on DVD ! Want a copy?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Locally filmed thriller, with suspense, blood, guts and boobs.. check out the intense trailer HERE !

— Dayton’s own, Henrique Couto is making a name for himself in independent movie circles.

“Haunted House on Sorority Row” was filmed locally. The DVD is now available on Amazon.com, or win one by commenting below !

MUST SCREAMS:

— The DVD may be bought at these retailers: Amazon.com, Game Swap at the corner of Dorothy Lane and Woodman Dr. and FYE at the Fairfield Commons Mall.

— If Amazon needs to restock, you may have to wait a few days, but in the meantime order our favorite film, by Henrique, last year’s dvd Babysitter Massacre !

— You can find more of Henrique’s items HERE.

You may recall that The Big Ragu went to the theater showing of “Haunted House on Sorority Row” earlier this year at Englewood Cinemas.

What makes this film so special? Henrique says it is his scariest movie of all time. Joni believes the scenes of pure survival in the house, comes across strongly in the film. Erin thinks the psychological, role driven aspects of each character, gives the film its frightening feel. As for you the viewer, well you gotta a pick up a DVD and see for yourself.

We also got a chance to ask the group some questions about their favorite scary movies, restaurants and more !

See how you stack up to their answers:

Hope you didn’t eat any popcorn during the flick, we are about to eat. We also hope we didnt scare you with the spooky, locally made, must see movie.. if we did, just relax.

Coconut Soup – delicious and unique. Click to enlarge

Now let’s talk Thai – Oh yeah, we talk Thai.. we talk Thai gooooddd. *** SIAM PAD THAI *** to be exact!! Now can you deal with this?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Since 2008, owner “Fon,” has brought her recipes from past restaurants she owned like Ban Thai, and Yummy Burger

— Seating is limited to about 30 people in this little spot, located at 3027 Wilmington Pike

— Attractions include Thai Specialties and Sushi !

With our many visits to Siam Pad Thai, we have developed some favorites, we list as “must eats.”

MUST EATS:

— THAI TEA: Feel free to send us thank you cards for this tip. A mix between an iced tea and a milkshake, this is one of those “you gotta try this” items.

— COCONUT SOUP: Warming to the soul, this soup contains lime leaves, tomato, mushroom, lime juice and of course coconut milk. Perfect for a cold day, actually perfect for any day. A delicious taste of Thai.

Deep Fried Terminator Roll: Try it and “you’ll be back”

— SOFTSHELL CRAB: One of the only places we know of that serves this delicacy year round. It is a delicacy and dare we say Food Adventure on a plate. Get over your fear, because this crab is edible, shell and all !

— THE PAD THAI: It doesnt matter if you get chicken, shrimp or vegetable, this is the real deal and some of the best stuff in town. Our filmmaking pal Henrique Couto agrees and pegs this his favorite dish at his favorite restaurant.

— THE DEEP FRIED TERMINATOR SUSHI ROLL: Sushi roll with Cream cheese, cooked salmon, eel sauce, sesame seeds, then deep fried in a light batter. They must call it a Terminator Roll because once you try it… “You’ll be back.”

Honorable Mention: The Mango Dessert served with sticky rice and coconut milk is a good one. Also, seafood lovers will love the Seafood soups in a Clay Pot for a nice Food Adventure. There are a few variations of seafood,noodles, etc. so choose your interest.

****PRIZE CONTEST****

ONE lucky fan who comments and shares the story will get a free DVD copy of “Haunted House on Sorority Row,” autographed by the director Henrique Couto !
The winner will be chosen at random on Wednesday.

Thanks to Henrique, Erin and Joni for joining us on an official Food Adventure!

Had enough to eat? After seeing the film and eating at Siam Pad Thai, you will know the difference between a Columbian Neck Tie, and a Pad Thai.

If you want more of Food Adventures, then you MUST CLICK LIKE on Facebook HERE !!!

Until then, check out our sexy, scary and scrumpious photos from our visits over the years to SIAM PAD THAI !

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Foremost Seafood: The Freshest Fish in Dayton

July 20, 2013 By Dayton937 4 Comments

Owner Tom Patterson with a fresh fish order

Hey seafood lovers, Food Adventures with The Big Ragu & Crew is about to change your world. There is a little known secret that has been in the Miami Valley for 30 years. It is called Foremost Seafood, and it’s located at Woodman Center Drive in Kettering. It is a seafood distributor, that has a retail store open to the public. What’s the big deal? Foremost gets daily shipments (not Sundays) of fresh caught seafood from Boston, Virgina, Florida and Alaskan suppliers. This allows Daytonians access to an incredible variety of nautical fare and ensures the freshest seafood. This is the type of access that is usually only found in mega cities.

It started with owner Tom Patterson, who in 1983 was typically listening to music like David Bowie in the basement of his parents home. From that house he sold his first shipment, fifty pounds of shrimp to the meat manager at Dorothy Lane Market, Helga. He still provides seafood to Dorothy Lane Market to this day. Over the years he has quietly built and empire and runs the buying for the business. This is important because he is an expert. Tom has a degree in marine biology from South Florida University. He worked on shrimp farms in Ecuador in the late 1970’s. During this time he also was setting trends in Galveston, TX by helping develop new shrimp farming technology. His knowledge is Dayton’s gain, as this hometown boy is now a successful businessman, bringing quality eats to the Foremost faithful. And they are faithful, most of his business is from customers that have been visiting the retail store for over a decade. Today, deliveries from Boston and Virginia arrive by truck the next day, while seafood from Alaska and Florida are flown in specially to Dayton airport.

***HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Live Softshell Crabs are available in season, at Foremost Seafood

— Foremost Seafood is NOT a restaurant, it is a storefront to buy fresh seafood. Think of it as a mini seafood market.

— Foremost provides seafood for most of the upscale, locally owned restaurants in Dayton.

— The fish they sell were caught on ‘day boats’ (only 1 or 2 days at sea). Translation: these are the freshest fish available and were not sitting in a ship’s cooler for two weeks. Only the highest quality is the rule at Foremost Seafood.

— The fresh fish is not displayed, it is kept whole and sliced only at the time of the order. The reasoning is to keep air and light from deteriorating the meat of the fish. “Be loyal to the fish” is their mantra. You order from a price list of fresh fish, they trim the fish and bring your order out for the ‘ok’ before they wrap it.

— Locally owed since 1983 by Tom Patterson and his wife Pam. Another true mom and pop establishment.

Fresh Carolina Shrimp – Never frozen

— Experts handle the fish once it arrives in Dayton. People like Chef Tony Coletta who worked at Garstkas and Chef Nate Young currently at the Oakwood Club

— Foremost offers over 300 varieties of fresh and frozen seafood specialties.

— Hours are a little tricky: Tuesdays – Fridays 9am -6pm, Saturday and Monday 9am-noon, Closed Sundays

***MUST EATS:

Fresh Carolina Shrimp: Caught just a couple of days ago, these huge shrimp run about $14.99/lb and have never been frozen, which in Ohio is practically unheard of. Taste the freshness without having to travel to North or South Carolina. These shrimp are usually the 21-25 count per pound variety, and are absolutely incredible.

Scottish Salmon: Foremost usually offers 4 types of fresh Salmon, but The Big Ragu & Crew recommend the Scottish Salmon for some killer grilling this summer !!

Chef Tony Coletta & the Big Ragu holding a fresh, Wahoo fish that was recently caught in Hawaii

Cherrystone Clams: Yes, they are alive. You can shuck them and eat ’em raw, but our favorite is to steam them then dip them in butter. Either way, be prepared for a fresh taste of the ocean!

Sushi Grade Tuna: This tuna is super-high quality and can be sliced and eaten raw. If sushi isn’t your style, consider coating the tuna with red pepper, sesame seeds or any spicy rub. Then pan-sear it on all sides (even the edges). We tried it both raw and cooked and loved it all. Check out our photo album below where we cooked lots of Foremost items and holla’ at your foodie boys.

Fresh Tilapia: You can still see the knife marks on the filets where it was carved. Talk about fresh! This mild fish is a favorite, even for the pickiest eaters. Try it baked for 20 minutes at 350degrees. Use your own spices, Don’t ask us, we aren’t chef’s we are just two guys that love to eat ! Check out their table of free recipe cards.

Soft-Shell Crabs: This delicacy is for serious eaters! They are alive. You can’t get any fresher than that. The most popular way to cook these are breaded and pan seared. They are also used in local sushi houses stuffed into ‘spider rolls.’ Softshell crabs are consumed entirely. That’s right, eat the whole thing, shell and all. Only for true Food Adventurers, and The Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax say they are delicious !

Crab Dip: This slightly spicy dip is so addicting, you will have to lock the refrigerator. Get some wheat thins or melba toasts and go to town on this stuff. Made from a mixture of pseudo-crab sticks and cream cheese, it is perfect party snacking. Food Adventures will not be held responsible for brawls over the last scoop.

What are you lookin at? Fresh Red Snapper

A couple of side notes: With the demand for fresh seafood, (over half of it coming from Boston), once in a while they run out of items. It is the nature of fresh offerings. But there are so many other choices like Blue crab from Virgina, Snow Crab legs, live oysters, the list goes on an on. Fresh fish that we have been buying for years include Red Snapper, Grouper, Wahoo, Bronzini and Halibut. Also, special orders such as live lobsters need to be pre-ordered. They even offer do it yourself fish frys where pricing is based on pounds of fish purchased.

For years, The Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax have been hitting up this place for our party food needs, cookouts, or just a craving for some fish at home. It is truly one of our favorites. Foremost Seafood’s philosophy is simple, freshness and being loyal to the integrity of fish in regards to handling. Owner Tom buys the best and sells the best.

Now you know about yet another Dayton gem. Our city is lucky to have access to this fresh food. Don’t forget to visit the free recipe table. Whether you want to eat healthy, or just love fish, get yourself into Foremost Seafood and see for yourself. There is nothing fishy here.

Check out our stunning photo album below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE. Come on, don’t be shellfish….

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