Tanks Bar and Grille

Since this column launched back in May I am often asked where I go for certain foods. Recently I was asked about biscuits and gravy. Here in Dayton, we are fortunate to have a good list of options for this breakfast delight.

I’ll be honest, it’s hard to beat my late Grandma Suddith’s scratch biscuits and sausage gravy she made in a cast iron skillet.  My aunt Jody makes the best bacon gravy I have ever had but she is 400 miles away on a hilltop outside of Phil Campbell Alabama. So when I need good biscuits and gravy I stop into these places to get my fill.

Mon -Fri 5am-7pm
Saturday 5am-1:30pm   &   Sunday 6am-130pm

The lady that runs the place and makes the gravy. Her name is mom. I’ve been eating at her place since I was a little kid. Used to be over in Red Lion, which is the place where Ohio State Routes 122, 123 and 741 all cross between Hunter, Springboro, and Lebanon. It’s a diner homage to Kentucky and those who came from there and settled in Warren County. She offers a full menu all day but I’ve only ordered two things in my nearly 40 years of eating there. Biscuits and gravy and the Cheeseburger.

The biscuits are fresh and not from the freezer and the gravy has enough pepper and sausage that a side of meat is never needed. Eating there is like eating with family. They are located on St. Rt. 123 at I-75 (Franklin exit) by the truck stop a 1/4 east of the interstate. Side note: One of the few places to find Fried Bologna on the menu. Doesn’t get more southern than that.

4480 Powell Rd. Huber Heights (Old Troy Pike. Rd 202) 45424
Tues thru Sun 7am-3pm

Sweet Home is always a welcome spot for a home-cooked meal while surounded by good people.

The biscuits are fresh and the gravy full of sausage. I add some hot sauce for a little kick and save 1/2 a biscuit for some jelly. It is not fancy, but you will feel at home with this breakfast spot.

Mon – Fri 6am -8pm

Closed Sat & Sun

What was Gus’ Bar and Carryout is now Vinny’s. I mean. Since 2004. This spot is best known by the blue-collar crowd in Moraine. Located on the north end of Dryden Road Vinny’s is often overlooked as a lottery/beer/cigarettes/pop carry out kinda place. It is way more. It is one of the best quick breakfast joints in town and classic bar and grill at night.

Back when I worked in Jefferson Township on the west side of Dayton, I’d stop into Vinny’s for a biscuit and gravy to go with a cup of coffee. Sure you can grab a breakfast sandwich, bacon, egg, and cheese, but why skip the hearty biscuits and gravy? They do it right. Slow-cooked gravy, freshly baked biscuits and they keep a pepper shaker handy to add that extra fresh cracked spice on top. A small order is $2.75, but go ahead and get the full size (2 biscuits and gravy) for $3.75.

A bonus here: They break up the biscuit for you before topping with gravy. Makes it easier to eat on the run, or in the car like I do.

1150 W. Main Street, Tipp City, OH 45371

Best known in Tipp City for homemade dinners and classic American restuarant atmosphere, Tipp O’ does a great breakfast. Don’t let the decor deter you. Sit, meet your server and enjoy some of the best home cooked food north of town. A large order only sits you back $3.99 and leaves room for a couple of eggs or home fries.

Sure you can get a Filey Mignon and eggs for breakfast, but why pass up the Biscuits and gravy? Breakfast is served all day and has never left me wishing I had gotten the burger or club. (Both really good choices for lunch though).