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The Caroline

It’s German Week at The Caroline

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The Caroline, located on the square in downtown Troy is running a German inspired menu this week.

Here’s what’s on the menu:

Soups:
German Lentil Soup
Kartoffel (German Potato Soup)
Starters:
Pretzel Bread (4), served with spicy beer mustard $14
German Sausage Sauté with bacon, apples, and sauerkraut $13
Salad Special:

Warm Bavarian Potato Salad with bacon, red onion, egg, Dijon mustard, apple cider, mayo, and dill $7

Chef’s Special:
Chicken Schnitzel with mustard cream sauce, served with potato cakes and cucumber salad $23
Gourmet Burger: German Bratwurst on a hoagie bun, topped with braised red cabbage, apples, and bacon, served with house-made mustard fried potatoes $15
Premium Side: Fried potato cakes topped with aioli sauce $6
Dessert of the Day:
Plum Good Crisp with plums, nectarines, ginger, nutmeg, maple syrup, topped with vanilla ice cream $10
Drink Special: Sondor Oktoberfest Draft 16 oz. pint
5 S Market St
Troy, OH, 45373

937-552-7676

 

Tues – Sat 4-9pm

It’s Italian Week at The Caroline

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The Caroline in Troy is celebrating the flavors of Italy July 16-20th. They’ve released a special menu with Italian specials all week long. 

STARTER: 

THREE 3 OZ. ITALIAN MEATBALLS SERVED IN A SKILLET WITH MARINARA SAUCE,MOZZARELLA AND PROVOLONE  CHEESE AND GARLIC BREAD $13SOUPS:    ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP             MINESTRONE

SALAD SPECIAL:

ITALIAN SALAD – LETTUCE, CHOPPED CELERY, RED ONION, PEPERONCINO, OLIVES, CHERRY TOMATOES TOSSED WITH OIL, VINEGAR DRESSING, PARMESAN CHEESE  $7

CHEFS SPECIAL:

CAPRESE CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA – 8 OZ CHICKEN BREAST LIGHTLY BREADED, THINLY SLICED PROSCIUTTO, FRESH MOZZARELLA, BASIL, CHERRY TOMATOES WITH A CHICKEN BALSAMIC SAUCE $26

SCALLOP SPECIAL:

SAUTEED SCALLOPS IN EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, ONIONS, ROASTED RED PEPPERS, CHILI PEPPERS, GARLIC, TOMATOES, TOMATO SAUCE, PARSLEY, CLAM JUICE, ITALIAN SPICES, SERVED OVER LINGUINE $32

GOURMET SUB :

HAM SALAMI, PEPPERONI, ONIONS, BANANA PEPPERS, MARINARA SAUCE, MOZZARELLA AND PROVOLONE CHEESE,  DRIZZLED WITH ITALIAN DRESSING SERVED HOT WITH ITALIAN FRIES WITH PARMESAN CHEESE AND ITALIAN SEASONING $17

PREMIUM SIDE:

PROSCIUTTO WRAPPED ASPARAGUS (4)  $8

DESSERT OF THE DAY:  

TIRAMISU – 2 LAYERS OF SPONGE CAKE, SOAKED IN TIRAMISU FLAVORED SAUCE, LAYERED WITH CREAM AND MASCARPONE CHEESE, THEN FINISHED WITH A DUSTING COCOA $10

DRINK SPECIAL:

THE NEGRONI

PERONI BEER ON DRAFT $5 PINT

5 South market Street
Troy, OH 45373

(937) 552-7676 

Hours:
Tues- Sat 4-9pm

Troy Eatery Celebrates 10 Years with $10 Steak

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In January of 2008, owners Steve and Melanie Smith opened The Caroline in The Dye  building, which was built on the southeast corner of Troy’s public square in 1866 for owner by William Henry Harrison Dye. 

W.H.H. Dye was likely the wealthiest man in Troy after the Civil war and also at the time of his death in 1900. He lived at the southeast corner of Franklin and S. Market streets in a large 2- story dwelling. After going into semi-retirement in 1865 William spent time wisely investing his fortune. This building was likely constructed as one of those good investments. Early on this building housed the Mammoth Boot & Shoe Store, C.Q. Sabin’s dental office, the E.R. Rinehart Cash Drug Store and Mr. Eli Kelly’s book and stationery store which also specialized in the sale of musical organs. In 1871 he established W.H.H. Dye & Son, Troy’s first private bank, which was located on the ground floor in the northwest corner of the Dye building. Eight years later he sold the bank to a Dayton firm and the bank eventually became known as the Miami County Bank. There remained a bank in this location until ca. 1900. During the 1880’s the Knights of Pythias met on the third floor of this building and every two weeks the Troy Dancing Club, a men’s organization, held dances here. As the space was so grand, the largest balls in town were held here, including masquerades, Firemen’s balls and New Year’s Eve balls.

From as early as 1875 there was a drugstore at 3 S. Market. These stores include: E.R. Rinehart Cash Drug Store, N. Tobey & Son, Chas. W. Tobey and the Magoteaux drug stores. 5 S. Market St. has been the home of dry goods stores including James Grunder & Co.; by 1911 it was the location of a 5 & 10 cent store. As early as 1927 G.C. Murphy & Co. had opened here and was in business until the early 1970’s. 7 S. Market St. has housed books and stationery shops, groceries and for many years was the location of a hardware store. These stores include: H.L. Hatfield & Bro., Hatfield & Scott and the Ralph Gibson hardware stores.

The ribbon cutting in Jan 2008.

For many years G.C. Murphy and Co. occupied the entire ground floor of the Dye Building. When G.C. Murphy closed their doors around 1971, the building became vacant. For most of the 1970’s and 1980’s, most of the building was deserted except for a business here and there on the 1st floor; the 2nd and 3rd floors ‘of this building were likely deserted even longer. In 1987 7 S. Market became the home of the Upper Krust restaurant which was replaced the following year by Taggarts restaurant which remained at this location until the spring of 2007 just prior to the sale of the building to Tony Blundell of the Medallion Investment Group which planned to renovate and restore the building.

On Monday, January 29th The Caroline, named after the Smith’s daughter, will celebrate their 10th birthday.  As part of the celebration you can join them for a 10 oz. Certified Angus Beef brand House Sirloin, a baked potato, and tossed salad for just $10!  They’ll also be giving away fun prizes throughout the night.

We asked owner Steve Smith to reflect back over the past 10 years and share some of his thoughts about the business.

What’s the best thing about being a restaurant owner?
      Everyday is different and the great people that enjoy coming to your restaurant 
When you look back at the 10 years- what stands out the most- good or bad, lesson learned?
Use quality products. Don’t cut corners your only good as your last meal served!
You have to do you homework and plan right
In hindsight, what were you most wrong about in planning the business?
Probably the amount of employees you are ultimately responsible for and rely on you 
And people do care about their bread (lol)
What’s next?
Continue to deliver great food and service subtle updates to the restaurant and building now that we own the building.

Steve Smith bought the building in the fall of 2017 when the loan of the previous owner when into default.  The  second floor has 4 office  which are leased out and he plans to move forward with conversion of the third floor into two or three condos, which had been started, but never completed by Medallion Investments, LLC.

30 Dayton Foods, You Gotta Try Before You Die

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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…The deep fried whole tilapia from Taco Loco

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 !

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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Twas the Night Before Christmas, What Dayton Restaurants Will Be Open?

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Take a much-needed break from the last-minute present-wrapping and feast-prepping, and let the area’s best chefs create the main culinary event for you and your loved ones. Below, are our top picks for dining out on Christmas Eve and even, a few notable spots opening up their doors on Christmas Day.  We also suggest you call for reservations, as many places will be booked up.

Dayton Restaurants Open Christmas Eve

 

Carvers Steaks & Chops
1535 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton, OH 45459
(937) 433-7099
Noon to 7pm
Flemings  Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
4432 Walnut Street, Dayton, OH 45440
(937) 320-9548
5 – 10pm

 

C’est Tout Bistro
2600 Far Hills Avenue, Kettering
(937) 298-0022
5 -10pm
Champps Americana 
7880 Washington Village Drive, Washington Twp.
(937) 433-2333
Noon to 10 pm

 

Giuliano, An Anticoli Tavern
67 S. Main Street, Miamisburg
(937) 859-3000
4 -9pm
Jay’s Seafood Restaurant
225 E Sixth Street Dayton, OH  45402
(937) 222-2892
4-8pm

 

Neil’s Heritage House
2323 West Schantz Avenue, Dayton OH
(937) 298-86111
3 -7pm
Shen’s Szechuan & Sushi 
7580 Poe Ave Dayton, OH 45414
(937) 898-3860
11am – 10pm

 

Spaghetti Warehouse
6 W. Fifth Street, Dayton OH 45402
(937) 461-3913
11am – 8pm
The Caroline
5 South Market Street, Troy , OH 45373
(937) 552-7676
3- 8pm Christmas Buffet Only
Adults – $20.95, Children 5 to 12 – $9.95, Under 5 Free

 

The Oakwood Club
2414 Far Hills Avenue, Oakwood, Ohio 45419
(937) 293-6973
4-9pm

Banner_Christmas
For all those folks who may not celebrate Christmas, or just don’t want to cook that day, there are indeed a few restaurants that will be open for your dining pleasure.  Of course you can always dine at Waffle House- they never close, but no matter where you dine out, please remember that the staff of these places have given up their holiday to serve you, so please tip generously, as working on a holiday is never fun, but should at least be profitable for those away from their families.

As always, if you know of a place we missed, feel free to add it in the comments!

Dayton Restaurants Open Christmas Day

 

Amar India Restaurant
2759 Miamisburg Centerville Road
(937) 439-9005
12 – 7pm
Champps Americana 
7880 Washington Village Drive, Washington Twp.
(937) 433-2333
Noon to 10 pm

 

Fricker’s
7 Area Locations
5pm – 2am
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
4429 Cedar Park Drive (at The Greene) Beavercreek, OH 45440
(937) 431-9200
11am – 8pm

 

Neil’s Heritage House
2323 West Schantz Avenue, Dayton OH
(937) 298-86111
3 -7pm
Shen’s Szechuan & Sushi 
7580 Poe Ave Dayton, OH 45414
(937) 898-3860
11am – 10pm

Jane’s Best Bets (5/4 – 5/8)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Since it is May, you may be asking the question, “Is there anything fun going on this week in Dayton?”  The answer of course is an enormous “YES!”  This week, there are so many things from which to choose that you may have some very difficult decisions ahead of you!

On Wednesday, join Dayton Creative Syndicate as they welcome Guest Speaker, Jack Supple at Brixx Ice Company.  Taste some wine as part of the Weekly Wine Tasting at The Wine Gallery.  Not yet prepared to make your bets for the Kentucky Derby?  Be sure to attend the Derby Preview Party at Color of Energy Gallery where John Engelhardt from River Downs and other horse racing experts will give you some great tips…and don’t forget to have a mint julep!  Plus, there will be a live horse outside the art gallery AND live music!  Afterwards, please carefully walk to Fifth Third Field to watch the Dragons as they play the South Bend Silver Hawks.  And finally, give those vocal folds a workout by heading to Blind Bob’s for Karaoke.

On jueves (Thursday), start the day at the Presidential Banquet Center for the 2nd Annual Voices for Kids Benefit, which helps CHOICES, an organization that provides a support system for youth, their families, and foster parents.  Over at Sinclair, attend the 2011 Go Red For Women Luncheon.  Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style at one of these great restaurants:  (1) The Caroline, which offers some great Cinco de Mayo specials; (2) El Meson – starting at 3PM, they will have $1 Tequila shots and free tapas until 5:30PM…plus amazing food, music, and dancing; or (3) El Rancho Grande (or the “E.R.” as my friend Lynne calls it) for 1/2 Price Ladies Night.  Or Join the Dayton Ballet Barre for their 1st Annual Cinco de Mayo ‘Barre’ Crawl which will take place at a variety of bars in the Oregon District.  If Mexican food does not appeal to your taste buds, no problem.  You can attend the Beer & Burger Tasting at A Taste of Wine in downtown Miamisburg.  Some other possibilities for Thursday evening include listening to the Hal Melia Quartet as part of the Vectren Just Jazz Series at the Dayton Art Institute, Space Night at the Air Force Museum, Dayton Theology on Tap at Oregon Express, or watching the Dragons as they play the South Bend Silver Hawks.

On Friday, ALL young professionals should without a doubt participate in Generation Dayton’s Get Out, & Give Back Dayton! The day will consist of a lunch, followed by a variety of service projects at area non-profits, and finally a wonderful after-party at Oregon Express!  Get registered today and bring a friend!  Afterwards, attend the First Friday art hop downtown.  Also downtown, you can participate in the Courteous Mass Ride, watch the Dragons play the South Bend Silver Hawks, listen to the Paul McKenna Band at the Dayton Art Institute, or attend ‘Byron Stripling: Satchmo, Fats & The Duke’ (Dayton Philharmonic) at the Schuster Center (click here to find out how you can get discounted tickets, courtesy of jumpstART!).  And if you’re brave enough to venture outside of downtown, head to the Dayton Mall Chick-fil-A for a Free Chick-fil-A Sandwich from 4-7PM, the Baum Opera House for The Wizard of Oz, or the Centerville Performing Arts Center for Hello, Dolly!

Hopefully you spent your Friday night downtown so you can wake up and gallop your way to the Derby Day Dash 5K and Kids Fun Run at RiverScape.  Then head to PNC 2nd Street Market to Make Your Own Crepe.  Over at Garden Station Community Garden/Art Park, share your food, art, music, or whatever else you want as part of the Really Really Free Market.  Wear your favorite hat (the bigger, the better!) and support women’s wellness by attending the 2nd Annual Crown Jewels Derby Day Brunch at Brio.  I hope to see you there!  Keep that hat on so that you will be able to attend the Junior League of Dayton Derby Party at The Wine Loft.  In order to support a couple other great causes, attend the House of Bread Silent Auction at the Dayton Mall Holiday Inn or the American Red Cross’s Putting on the Glitz event at the Hope Hotel and Conference Center.  If your doctor wrote you a prescription for laughter, be sure to get your tickets to Cocktails with Larry Miller at Victoria Theatre.  Although I’m not an accountant, I don’t think this would qualify as a medical expense under your H.S.A.  Listen to the Dayton Philharmonic’s performance – ‘Byron Stripling: Satchmo, Fats & The Duke’, which takes place at the Schuster Center.  Other musical options include listening to the Miami Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Spring Concert at Shiloh Church or the The Primo Trio at the Dayton Art Institute as part of the Vanguard Concert Series.  Catch “Saturday Night Football” at Hara Arena as the Dayton Silverbacks play the Indianapolis Enforcers.  And finally, if you feel like catching a show, both The Wizard of Oz (Baum Opera House) and Hello, Dolly (Centerville Performing Arts Center) will still be running strong!

On Sunday, if you do nothing else, be sure to honor your mother!  If you don’t mind (and if you do mind, sorry, I just don’t care), I’d like to give a quick shout out to mine – Thank you mom for being the best mom ever…and thank you for not just putting up with my dumb jokes, but actually laughing at them!  I love you bunches and bunches! Thanks for letting me do that, although you really had no choice.  Anyways, whatever you’re doing, I hope you will be able to have the opportunity to spend Sunday with your mother.  And don’t worry because you won’t have to cook breakfast or lunch, as many restaurants are offering Mother’s Day Specials!  Some places that are offering brunch include The Barnsider, Hilton Garden Inn, Carvers, Blind Bob’s, Boulevard Haus, Dublin Pub, and Fleming’s.  Don’t forget to take your wallet…it would be bad news if your mom had to pay!  And if your mom likes music, take her to Kettering Fairmont High School for the Miami Valley Symphony Orchestra Spring Concert.  Or take her to see Honk! Jr. at Town Hall Theatre.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

Why was the racehorse named Bad News?  Because Bad News travels fast.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!  And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Jane’s Best Bets (11/10 – 11/14)

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Photo Credit: Alli Shillito

Sunday’s Patriots vs. Browns game may be considered an upset, but to be quite honest, I’m not sure why.  My family sure wasn’t upset…GO BROWNIES!  If you weren’t watching the game, hopefully you were out having fun participating in one of the many events going on in Dayton this past week!  Here’s to another week with a variety of things to do!

On Wednesday, sip some wine at The Wine Gallery downtown for their Anniversary Tasting! Approximately 50 different wines will be featured and they will have complimentary food.  Or if you’re more of a beer lover, then attend the Beer Tasting at The Caroline in Troy.  Drive to The Winds Café and Bakery in Yellow Springs for their 21st Annual Garlic Dinner if you don’t mind a little garlic on your breath.  If you’re like me and love G-O-D, then you will want to attend the Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg’s production of the wonderful musical Godspell at the Baum Opera House.  I heard that the kids put on an outstanding performance!  For a good drum roll (and perhaps a dumb joke to follow!), see DRUMLine Live at the Schuster Center.  Also, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be performing at the Nutter Center if you prefer to get in the Christmas spirit a little early this year.  And finally, if you would like to give back, then bring your canned goods to the “Can”nery for their Holiday Food Drive, which will benefit the Foodbank.  Or, purchase a new toy or clothing item to help needy kids as part of the YWCA Dayton Holiday Wish List Donation Drive.

On Thursday, get your exercise and “Jump” into Art with jumpstART at the Dayton Visual Arts Center’s ARTtoBUY Holiday Gift Gallery.  Although ARTtoBUY will be happening for a while, on Thursday only, jumpstART will be providing light food, good wine, and some art appreciation.  If you are an introvert and would prefer to buy art-type gifts by yourself, then attend Live Art, Give Art at the Cannery Art and Design Center’s fourth annual holiday gift gallery.  Are you a young professional that would like to meet other young professionals in the Dayton area?  If so, come to Champps, grab a drink, and do some social networking as part of Generation Dayton’s Thirsty Thursday.  Plus, you will have a chance to win a $25 gift card to Champps, which you are welcome to use to buy me a drink!  At The Neon, the Ohio Liberty Film Festival will be going on, so if movies are your thing, then you should plan to attend. And if can’t wait until Thanksgiving for your turkey dinner, then gobble your way to the Stockyards Inn for their Turkey Thursdays.

On Friday, all you businesswomen will want to attend the Women in Business Networking winstitute at the Dayton Racquet Club. If you’re sick and tired of that old couch but don’t have the money to purchase a new one (or are just environmentally conscious), consider turning it into a beautiful work of art at the Reinvent Your Furniture Workshop at the Cannery Art and Design Center.  If you are a college student who would like to learn a little bit about leadership, then attend Leadership Truths: Everything A College Student Needs to Know at Urbana University.  In addition, the premier young professional groups in the Dayton region will be on hand to help you get connected with all things Dayton!  (Honestly, this is how I have become connected in the Dayton community, so I highly recommend it!)  At the Schuster Center, join the Philharmonic Orchestra and some top vocalists for Broadway Rocks.  I’m not sure if they will be of the igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic type, but the performance will feature several hits from wonderful shows such as Wicked and Phantom of the Opera.  For more info, be sure to check out this article on DMM!  Also downtown, the Ohio Liberty Film Festival will be happening at the Engineers Club.  And, if you’re looking for an evening of dining and dancing in a beautiful setting, be sure to get your tickets today for the Dayton Urban League Gala at the Dayton Art Institute!

On Saturday, head to the Dayton Women’s Club for their Annual Holiday Bazaar.  If you feel like you’re wearing the same thing over and over again and need something new in which to put your arms and legs, but don’t want something that will cost you an arm and a leg, attend the Swap ‘n Shop ’til You Drop Charity Benefit.  Grab three friends and register your team for the URS Oregon District Barstool Open, which is a 9-hole, 9-bar indoor miniature golf outing.  From those who have attended in the past, I have heard it is a super fun time.  Plus, proceeds benefit local children and adults with disabilities, so I’m all “fore” it!  In the evening, you can also support the Cystic Fibrosis Association by attending the Dayton Shining Stars Gala at the Engineers Club.  For some musical/theater options, see the Children’s Performing Arts of Miamisburg’s production of Godspell at the Baum Opera House, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at La Comedia, Playing by Life’s Rules’ at the Ray & Joan Kroc Theatre, Broadway Rocks at the Schuster Center, An Evening with Sutton Foster at Clark State Performing Arts Center, or the Choral Concert at Sinclair’s Blair Hall Theatre.  Are you already missing the summer?  If so, attend an Indoor Tropical Bash at Norton’s featuring the Parrots of the Caribbean, a wonderful Jimmy Buffett Tribute band that is sure to put on a great show!  Or make your way to UD Arena to watch the Flyers take on Mount St. Mary’s.  Go UD!

On Sunday, if you’re not watching the Browns’ next victory, consider making the drive to Fairfield for Jungle Jim’s International Wine Festival, where there will be over 400 wines!  That is a lot of alcohol, so be sure to bring a DD…or rather have a DD bring you.  Downtown, celebrate the 20thAnniversary of the renovation and re-opening of the Victoria Theatre with Viva Victoria!.  The celebration is absolutely free…just be sure to get your ticket from Ticket Center Stage.  If you didn’t get a chance to check out the Ohio Liberty Film Festival at The Neon, Playing By Life’s Rules’ at the Ray & Joan Kroc Theatre, or Godspell at the Baum Opera House, now is your opportunity to do so.  And finally, if you want to get in the spirit of Christmas with a little spirits (which is much more acceptable than non-stop Christmas music in November!), attend the Holiday Tasting at Arrow Wine in Centerville.

And now it’s time for the Dumb Joke of the Week. Drum roll please…

I was trying to write a song about drinking but I couldn’t get past the first few bars.

These are just a few best bets from the DMM Calendar.  There are plenty more events listed there, so if you haven’t, I encourage you to check it out today!  Also, if you have an event to share or promote, please submit it– it’s great marketing and better yet, it’s FREE!   And finally, if you have a dumb joke to share, I’m all ears!

Have a great week Dayton!

Goose Island Beer Tasting in Troy

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When the first Goose Island Brewpub opened its doors in 1988, domestic, mass-produced beer was deeply ingrained in Midwestern culture. The craft beer industry was still in its infancy, with only a handful of brewpubs in existence in the Midwest. In his travels across Europe, beer-lover John Hall had enjoyed a distinctive local brew in each region he visited. Hall was convinced that Midwesterners could produce beers as good or better than those he’d tasted in his travels. Living on the shore of the largest system of fresh water on the planet Earth, in a city with rapidly evolving tastes – John decided that his hometown, Chicago, would be the ideal place to do just that.  On Wed, Aug 11th starting at 7pm  you’ll have the chance to check out half a dozen of their latest craft brews at The Caroline, on the square in downtown Troy.

Goose Island’s Lindsey Shafer, will be the hostess and The Caroline  will pair the beers with some really nice cheese and chocolates.   The following beers (with the below notes from Brewmaster Greg Hall) are scheduled for the tasting:

Goose Island 312- Densely populated with flavor, 312’s spicy aroma of Cascade hops is followed by a crisp, fruity ale flavor delivered in a smooth, creamy body. This gives 312 a balance of flavor and refreshment that never fills you up and won’t let you down.

Sofie-Fermented with wild yeasts and aged in wine barrels with orange peel, Sofie is a tart, dry, sparkling ale. A subtle, spicy white pepper note, a hint of citrus from the orange peel and a creamy vanilla finish make Sofie an intriguing choice for Champagne drinkers and beer drinkers who are fond of Belgian Saisons.

Fleur-A Belgian style pale ale blended with hibiscus and kombucha tea, Fleur is a beautiful, rose-colored ale with an aroma of strawberries and hibiscus flowers. Her flavor balance starts with a hint of sweet, ripe berry and finishes tart.

Demolition-Brewed to honor the brave souls who kept our brewpub open in the early 90’s while wrecking balls tore down the mall around us. Dry and smooth, with a grassy, citrus aroma and honey malt middle.

Matilda-Wild in character, with a slightly fruity aroma and a spicy yeast flavor that is as unique as it is satisfying – Matilda is an intriguing choice for beer and wine lovers alike. Dry and quenching, it’s the perfect accompaniment at the dining table or for casually socializing at the bar.

Pere Jacques-Brewed with loads of malt and Belgian yeast, Pere Jacques is a wonderfully fruity, malty ale. Pere Jacques’ complex flavors stand shoulder to shoulder with the Belgian Dubbels enjoyed in the world’s finest beer bars. At the dining table it’s the perfect alternative to a glass of vintage port.

The cost is attend is $17.50 per person and reservations are requested.   Tasting are set up family style, with appetizers passed in a casual, relaxed atmosphere.  Call Steve or Carly at 552-7676 to hold your spot.

Belly up to the bar at The Caroline


The Caroline
5 South Market Street
Troy, OH 45373