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wheat penny

Wheat Penny’s Patio- Warm and Safe!

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It’s 36 degrees out currently and I’m having lunch on the patio (Tarte Flambe Pizza)  at Wheat Penny.  And with just 4 of the 6 heaters turned on, it’s toasty warm on the partially enclosed patio.  I came down to talk with Chef/Owner Liz Valenti about her decision to close the dining room, but still serve meals on the patio and do carry out.

As Liz talks, it’s easy to tell that she’s done a lot of research and is passionate about making the best decision for her guests and staff.  She consulted with an engineer about how to achieve maximum air flow on the patio and invested about $20,000 installing a Haiku UV-C Ceiling Fan and heaters.  The fan evenly circulates air through their system, which includes UV-C light rays that destroy and neutralize 99.99% of airborne pathogens. It removes mold, bacteria, and viruses – including the COVID-19 virus.

Wheat Penny will be adding additional wall mounted heating in the next couple of weeks.  Liz feels confident that her patio is safe and will be a viable option throughout the winter. Their tables are still socially distanced and of course staff are masked up.  “Because of the fresh air circulation, our patio is actually safer than than our dining room at this point.  We hope as things move forward to install a Haiku in the dining room.”

Back in March when the shutdown happened Wheat Penny and it’s sister restaurant Meadowlark had to lay off staff. They helped them file for unemployment and figure out what to do about their insurance and feed them weekly and stayed actively involved with lives of those we’ve laid off.   

Today Liz choked up as she  shared she had to lay off a couple more.  But they have plans to drop Door Dash and Uber Eats to launch their own in house delivery, which could bring back 3 employees. Initially delivery will be in a 3 mile range of each restaurant and then expanding as they master it.

Chef Liz shared that “the carryout menu will be expanding, we’ll be developing more family pack meals, utilizing our smoker more, smoking brisket. Our pizza’s, plated dinners and pasta’s have been our best sellers and I’m amazed at how many people are ordering our egg plant fries for take out.  I’m actually driving up to Chicago Sunday to pick up rice flour to make more, as our local purveyors have been unable to source it. To-go cocktails have also been a meaningful addition to carry outs, saying it’s not unusual for an order to be a pizza and 3 cocktails, which helps us keep bartenders on staff. We’ve also been doing some large take outs for companies that are gifting individually packaged meals with their employees and then eating together via zoom.

As we continue to chat, she shares that Covid has been the ultimate team building experience and truly improved the communication of the staff at both locations, because they’ve needed to be frank about what’s happening and they are speaking without filters.  She’s also really encouraged by the conversations being had with local and state lawmakers, and the guidance and advocacy being done on behalf of restaurants by the Ohio Restaurant Association.  As a matter of she has to end our conversation to take a call from Senator Sherrod Brown.

She left me with a final statement saying “our restaurants are making decisions based on health experts and aggressively adhering to the rules, while trying to keep as many people employed and feed. We hope our community will continue to support us and all the local eateries.”

Wheat Penny Oven and Bar

515 Wayne Ave, Dayton, OH 45410 
(937) 496-5268
Tuesday- Thursday 11am – 8pm
Friday & Saturday 11am -9pm

 

38th Annual Cooking School Features Oregon District Chefs

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Chefs from five restaurants all located in Dayton’s historic Oregon District will share their culinary skills in “cook and dine” classes in the 38th annual AFS (American Field Service) Cooking School. Proceeds from the annual cooking school benefit the Dayton area team of AFS Intercultural Programs’ high school student exchanges. This year a portion of the money raised will go to The Dayton Foundation’s Dayton Oregon District Tragedy Fund.

The 2020 cooking series offers a sampling of the Oregon District’s diverse array of cuisine and dining options. The five cooking classes and dinners will be held from 6:30 to 9:00 pm, Mondays, February 3rd to March 9th in the Consumer Science room at Centerville High School, 500 E. Franklin St. in Centerville.

The 2020 classes are scheduled as follows:

Chef Liz Valenti

Feb. 3:  Chef Liz Valenti of Wheat Penny Oven and Bar reflects her Italian-American background growing up in Chicago and culinary training in California. The Wheat Penny menu includes a variety of entrees and pizza made with dough containing starter from a 100-year old Italian bakery in Chicago, handmade pastas served in traditional and contemporary styles, flavorful vegetable dishes, cheeses and ice creams made in-house daily.   

Feb. 10:  Chef Margot Blondet of Salar Restaurant is known for the freshest and most natural ingredients, all of which are sourced locally or made fresh, in-house every day. Salar features world fusion cuisine with strong Peruvian, French and Mediterranean influences.

Feb. 24:  Chefs Patrick & Casey Van Voorhis of Grist are newcomers to Dayton. Some of their specialties include signature breads, pasta and dishes with a variety of culinary influences. Casey and Patrick are graduates of the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY and have extensive teaching and fine-dining experience at several Michelin starred restaurants, most recently serving as co-executive chefs at Spoonbar restaurant in Healdsburg, CA.

March 2:  Chef Melissa Deaton of Dublin Pub offering distinguished Gastropub Irish fare, with a fusion of European & American influences. Chef Melissa writes and executes the renowned menus for the Pub’s monthly, four-course, themed dinner events.

March 9:  Chef Jeff Robinson and owner Amy Haverstick of Jay’s Seafood – – the historic, elegant and welcoming Oregon District landmark. Family owned for over 40 years, Jay’s features a wide variety of fresh seafood and steaks prepared with traditional and creative methods as well as house made salad dressings and desserts.

According to volunteer Eileen Baker “the AFS Cooking School’s volunteer staff gratefully appreciates not only the talent and generous participating chefs and restaurateurs, but also the support, cooperation and community spirit of the many fine Oregon District restaurants in helping to organize the 2020 classes.”

All classes combine culinary demonstrations by the chefs with hands-on participation by each student in groups of four with individualized chef supervision. Classes are casual, fun and informative. Each evening’s class includes chef demonstration and class preparation of a 3-course meal.  Chefs and their restaurants provide an amuse bouche as well as all the food for the evening. Each evening concludes with a sit-down dinner that students helped prepare, complete with fresh flowers, colorful table linens and specialty roast coffee. These classes WILL sell out, so reserve quickly! 

The cost is $55 per person, per class. Classes are limited to 20 students. Each evening’s class includes chef demonstration and class preparation of a 3-course meal.

For availability of classes and more information call or text Nell Petry at 937 469-1774 or email her at AFScooking2@gmail.com. Classes often fill quickly, however waiting lists are kept for each class in the event of cancellations. To make reservations, send payment with completed registration form to: Nell Petry, 1465 Cross Creek Circle, Kettering, OH 45429.  Space is limited to 20 students per class.  These classes are very popular, so seats fill quickly!!  Once a class is filled, a waiting list is created.  All registrations are taken on a first received, first recorded basis.

A completed registration form, with payment (checks only, made payable to Dayton AFS) must be in the possession of the coordinator to reserve a seat.  Feel free to mail or deliver your paperwork to the above address.  A box will be on the front porch for your convenience in delivering your paperwork.  Write the date and time you drop off your registration and place in the box.  Mail is collected daily.  If you have a question, you may reach me at: petrynell06@gmail.com or text 937-469-1774

For information about AFS Intercultural Programs please visit https://afs.org .

Brunch at Wheat Penny

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We’ve been hearing about it for over a year from Chef Liz.  They’ve been sharing photo’s on social media and finally today we got to taste it. Wheat Penny is now serving brunch! And it was delicious.  The only surprise- it wasn’t packed today.  But we have a feeling that will change!

Here’s a tour of our brunch today:

Eggs in Hell

Poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce on cheese polenta with toast

 

 

 

 

 

Breakfast Gondola 

Pizza dough shaped like a gondola baked with whipped ricotta, sunny up eggs with ham, bacon mushrooms and bacon

served with a side of greens

 

 

 

 

 

 

Breakfast Tacos

Corn tortillas stuffed with your choice of eggs and bacon, green chorizo and egg, or eggplant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Breakfast Sandwich 

Housemade grilled Ciabatta roll, egg, cheese, Mariah’s Chile Sauce  with a burger patty, green chorizo or fried chicken thight

also available vegan with smoked jackfruit , crispy eggplant or cauli patty

 

 

 

 

 

There’s still more of the brunch menu we didn’t get to, but today was only the first day.  With the brunch menu served each Saturday and Sunday, trust us, we will make it through the whole menu soon!

 

Wheat Penny Oven
515 Wayne Ave,
Dayton, OH 45410

(937) 496-5268

Monday – Friday 11am – 10pm
Sunday 10am- 3pm

Be A Part of The Foodbank’s Food Fight!

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The week of September 12-18 a few of Dayton’s best restaurants are coming together in a competition to fight hunger through a FOOD FIGHT.

The public is encouraged visit any of the participating restaurants and partake in the special deal they’re offering to raise meals for The Foodbank. Participating restaurants include Corner Kitchen, Meadowlark Restaurant, and Wheat Penny. More restaurants are being added before the start of the Food Fight.

The restaurant raising the most money will win bragging rights and a trophy.

Michelle L. Riley, CEO of The Foodbank, says, “We thank everyone participating in the Food Fight. It takes an entire community to work together to fight hunger in Dayton and with money raised through this event, we will be able to further support and serve our neighbors in need.”

September is Hunger Action Month, which is the Feeding America network’s nationwide awareness campaign designed to mobilize the public to take action on the issue of hunger. The feeling of running on empty is a reality for over 127,000 people in the Miami Valley. We need to make sure that no child, adult or senior in America ever runs on empty, so this September, we’re asking everyone to come together to help end hunger. FOOD FIGHT is a great way to become involved in the fight against hunger.

For more information, visit the Food Fight  Facebook Event Page  or call The Foodbank at (937)461-0265 x13.

Veggiepalooza Is This Saturday

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13920172_10209049695666979_5380646274325719432_oDid you plant your own vegetable garden this year?  Do you get pick them up in the produce section at your favorite grocery store, or at a local farmers market?  Do you have a CSA that delivers you a basket full of vegetables each month?  Do you ever wonder what to do with some of those veggies?

 

Have no fear, MetroParks and United Way’s Volunteer Connections have partnered to bring you Veggiepalooza on Saturday, August 13 from 1- 4pm.  Being held at Grace United Methodist Church located at 1001 Harvard Blvd, (enter at Salem and Dartmouth),this FREE event will teach you how to  make the most of summer’s bounty.

There will be cooking and preservation demos, info on storing fresh local produce, plus tips on how to get kids to eat their veggies. (Hint: Pizza. The answer is pizza.) Liz Valenti of  Wheat Penny Oven and Bar will be manning a make-your-own pizza station for kids!

 


Rubi Girls & Wheat Penny Partner to Raise Funds for Orlando Victims.

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13445663_1416730748353277_7119764655102639518_nWheat Penny is  looking to fill the dining room all day and evening on Tuesday to help raise funds to donate to victims and their families in Orlando! 10% of all sales, all day Tuesday will be sent to Equality Orlando, in support of victims and their families.

The fantabulous The Rubi Girls will be slinging food and drinks and enticing you to open your wallets from 7-9pm. Not only will they be displaying their beauty and comedic wit, they will be matching the 10% Wheat Penney is donating to Orlando!   So show up hungry; spend lots and share your love !

Wheat Penny is located at 515 Wayne Avenue and is open from 11am – 10pm Tuesday.
Reservations are suggested for large groups.  Call (937) 496-5268 for more information.

The Top 20 Green Foods of Dayton

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Cobblestone Cafe’s Honey Fried Chicken Salad

Guacamole – hard to get a good pic of that stuff

Happy St Patricks Day from the Food Adventures Crew to you… Today, Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu and Chef House are getting into the Irish spirit by exploring the colorful green foods of Dayton.  From salads to side items, these menu offerings are luckier than a four leaf clover.

Now may we present with Faith and Begorrah,

 

THE TOP 20 GREEN FOODS OF DAYTON

1) HONEY FRIED CHICKEN SALAD at COBBLESTONE CAFE:  Hungry Jax points to this as one of her favorites.  Not only are the greens crisp and fresh, but the chicken is fried perfectly.  The quaint atmosphere always adds to our Food Adventures at Cobblestone.

 

Saag Paneer – An India Oven Traditional Creamy Spinach dish, you MUST TRY

2) GRILLED KALE SALAD at LUCKY’S TAPROOM:  Chef House says this is a “Must Eat.”  One of her “go to” menu items in the Oregon District, it is fresh, delicious and local!

 

3) ASIAGO CRUSTED CHICKEN at ROOST MODERN ITALIAN: When Executive Chef Dana Downs is at the helm, you can expect some divine food.  The pesto linguine and spinach make this dish….

 

4) SAAG PANEER at INDIA OVEN:  Creamy, wonderfully prepared traditional Indian dish served with white, basmati rice.  The fresh, cheesey mixture melts in your mouth.  Want to branch out and try a delicious dish?  Here is your chance.

 

5) MALA PORK from CHINA COTTAGE: Stir fried magic performed by Tiger Wang and his cooking staff.  Green onions and thinly sliced pork tossed in a light brown sauce.  This dish highlights that signature taste, from an iconic Dayton restaurant.  The Big Ragu gives it 2 chopsticks up!

 

6) THE AVOCADO & GOAT CHEESE BLT from LUCKY’S TAPROOM & EATERY:  Drew Trick is serving up the mainstay favorites on his menu, and this is one has a cult following.  Chef House says “you gotta try this sandwich.”  The local ingredients are amazing.

 

Mala Pork from China Cottage – an amazing dish, with a little heat

7) DRESSED GREENS SALAD at WHEAT PENNY OVEN & BAR:  Known for their pizza, the delightful, delicious salads are the perfect accompaniment or a meal in themselves.  Your choice of dressing drizzled… for rizzle.

 

8) PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S: One of the more unique Dayton creations on this list, and one of the most surprisingly delicious.  A soup with a fan following like now other, get in here and try this one-of-a-kind soup.

 

9)  BACON WRAPPED ASPARAGUS at OLLIE’S PLACE:  A perfect appetizer to go with the unmatched beer selection at this eatery.  Warning- people at your table will want you to share this, so get a couple of orders to pass around.

 

10)  GREEN CHICKEN CURRY at SIAM PAD THAI: A flavorful dish in a flavorful restaurant.  Get it spicy or mild.  The sauce is derived from green chilies, coconut milk, eggplant, bamboo shoots, green beans and bell pepper.

 

Dressed Greens at Wheat Penny – Healthy never tasted so good

11) FRIED GREEN TOMATOES at RUE DEMAINE:  A simple southern side, perfected by a decorated chef.  Try these delicately fried slices, that simply melt in your mouth.

 

12) GUACAMOLE from TAQUERIA MIXTECA:  Authentic mix from the local authority in authentic Mexican cuisine.  If you want guacamole like they make it in Mexico City, then you’ve found the right place.

 

13) GARLIC EDAMAME at KABUKI:  Healthy bean sprouts that slide into your mouth.  This appetizer can be perfectly described as “addicting.”  Simple and so good, it is a perfect warm up for a sushi roll.

 

14) KEY LIME PIE at COCO’S BISTRO: A heartier version of the original, it is almost like a key lime cheesecake.  Go green with this dessert, and make your day special.  The elegant atmosphere adds to the dreamy experience.

 

Deep Fried Asparagus wrapped with bacon

15) SPINACH CON QUESO DIP from DOUBLEDAY’S GRILL & TAVERN: The type of appetizer where you fight over the last scoops of dip when the others at the table.  Yeah, it is that damn good.

 

16) CHILE RELLENO from TACO LOCO: Ohh si, si, si!  One of the Big Ragu’s favorite dishes and one of his favorite places.  Not only is this food great and homemade, the prices are extremely reasonable.

 

17) BUTTERCREAM COOKIE SANDWICHES from THE CAKERY:  So good you get a sugar high when you eat them.  Typically decorated in green these cookies are probably the most sinful thing on this list.

 

18) ZUCCHINI TACO BOATS at FLAVOR’S EATERY:  Carved out zucchini, filled with taco toppings, these “boats” are delicious and a healthy spin on tacos.  Get some at the Centerville Flavors and they even make them for healthy “to go” meal plans.

 

 19)  SQUASH SPAGHETTI from FLAVOR’S EATERY:  Thinly shredded squash, made to look like small noodles.  Tasty, healthy and as filling as pasta.  It is a good way to “fool” your tastebuds into thinking you are eating carbs, but it s all healthy squash.

Garlic Edamame at Kabuki

 

20) FRIED PICKLES at THE DUBLIN PUB: What’s a St Patty’s list without an Irish place.  Hand dipped crunchy, pickle slices, battered, deep fried and served with some ranch dip.

 

We are not food critics.. we just love to eat.  Food is our passion, and so are the original events, photos and festivals.

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Pickle Soup at Blind Bobs

Zucchini Boats – “Meals by Flavors”


Chile Relleno – Taco Loco

The Cakery – Buttercream cookie sandwich

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guacamole – hard to get a good pic

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shredded squash –

 

Dayton Restaurants That Give Back

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Chef TJ and Owner Joe Castellano of Amber Rose, one of the most charity supporting restaurants in Dayton

We love living in Dayton, Ohio… a close knit community that pulls together to help their poor, impoverished, down trodden and those suffering temporary crises.   Lots of companies give not only during “the season of giving,” but year round.

Today, Food Adventures takes time to recognize some of the Miami Valley eateries that we have witnessed supporting numerous charities, year after year after year.  These are some of the biggest givers, the most generous folks, but it is certainly not the complete list.  These eateries give not only in the Christmas season, but support many charities, year round.

Let us first preface this article by saying that many, many local restaurants support various causes and give willingly to numerous charities. We realize that some of these establishments may have been missed in this article, but that does not diminish their impact on the community.

 

Without further delay, Food Adventures presents a list of some of the biggest givers, in alphabetical order:

 

LOCALLY OWNED:

Dan Apolito and Mike Fullenkamp from Archer’s Tavern and Stone House Tavern have immersed themselves in Dayton charities

Here are the locally owned restaurants that go above and beyond when it comes to charitable generosity:

 

AMBER ROSE: From the Ronald McDonald charities, to local performing arts charities, Amber Rose has a firm involvement in the community.  They even have hosted events for Catholic women’s charities, Dayton Children’s Hospital and more.  You can see owner Joe Castellano and his workers at many charity and social events throughout the year.   They support the community quietly and never toot their own horn.  They have also catered for and supported charities like the Dayton International Peace Museum and the local Habitat for  Humanity. The list goes on and on..

 

ARCHERS TAVERN:  This popular Centerville restaurant also leads the food scene in community involvement.  Owners Dan Apolito and Mike Fullenkamp dive in and help many local causes, donating lots of gift cards and money.  Their philosophy is when you give, it comes back to you.  Small charities like Hannah’s Treasure Chest or local Alzheimer associations, no charity is too small or too big, and Archer’s helps a lot of them.  They even donate to local charities with their everyday menu “wing challenge.”  On May 9th, 2016, Archer’s plans on leading a charity event, Pro-Am, with celebrities such as Ickey Woods called Dayton Fairways for Airways Celebrity Golf Classic at NCR Country Club , benefiting the Jovante Woods Foundation.   Food Adventures will be involved as well… stay tuned…

 

Beavercreek Pizza Dive owner Teresa Geraci & Food Adventures’ Chef House, work the Monday buffet for charity

BEAVERCREEK PIZZA DIVE:  Each Monday evening, they host an all you can eat pizza buffet for charity.  They call it their “Serve Pizza, Do Good,” project.  We call it a delicious and filling way to support local causes.  Food Adventures has volunteered as guest pizza makers in the past to raise money for local charities like the “Miami Valley Pit Crew” and “Dayton Daybreak.”

 

BILL’S DONUTS: The best donuts in the world are made by some of the most caring people in the world.  Siblings Lisa and Jim Elam have carried on the family business and tradition of giving to the community.  They have sponsored dozens of kids baseball teams over the decades, and soccer teams too. They support the Blue Star Moms and Mackenzies Lemonade Stand, and so many more charities.  One of their biggest giving events is the annual Superhero 5k Donut Run for “A Special Wish Foundation.”  Food Adventures and Dayton Most Metro are planning on being a part of this event every year.

 

Lisa and Jim Elam pose with the kids before the Superhero Run for “A Special Wish Foundation”

BRIXX ICE CO.: Owner Chris Bhai is an unsung hero for Dayton charity involvement.  He is another proprietor who flies under the radar, supporting local causes at every turn.  Charities such as Dayton’s domestic violence resource called the Artemis Center, 5 for the kids, and the local Leukemia Lymphoma Society have benefited from their donations.  Whether hosting events, or helping cater, Brixx is a solid supported of the Miami Valley.  If we listed all the local non-profits that Brixx helps, we would be here all day.

 

Chris Bhai, owner of Brixx, is one of the most giving restaurateurs in the Miami Valley

CAKE, HOPE and LOVE: Mike and Shannon Teague, owners of this bakery, started with just one cake pan.  Now their reach is across the Miami Valley.  They have a“Wall of Hope” on their website, where each month, they help a new local charity.  Hospice of Dayton and The Hope Foundation of Greater Dayton are just 2 of the area charities they have helped recently.  They also make countless donations of free product to charities like www.nohungrykid.org.  Another example of good people doing good things for the Dayton community.

 

CASSANOS:  Cassano’s latest generation, Lora, Chip and Chris, have continued their father’s and grandfather’s legacy in recent years.  That legacy is a continued tradition of community involvement and charity work.  Their “Cassano’s Cares” Foundation” has recently given tens of thousands of dollars to the local Spinal Muscular Atrophy foundation or “SMA.”  The corporation has also given to and supported Grandview Hospital’s “Victor J. Cassano Health Center.”  Other medical donations recently have gone to the Kettering Medical Breast Evaluation Centers.  The Cassano family has also given away thousands of pizzas to charity each year.  It is great to see a Dayton icon so involved in future of the Gem City.

 

Chip and Chris Cassano with Pete Rose on their 60th Anniversary promoting a fundraiser for the Cassano’s Cares Foundation

CHAPPY’S TAP HOUSE:  These guys continually hold events through the year as on site fundraisers for like selling old glassware for the Leukemia Lyphoma Society or doing a pint night to fight Prostate Cancer.   They are always seen supporting various charity events, and never stop giving to the local cause.  Good food, good beer and a company that gives back to the community.

 

DUBLIN PUB:  These guys always lend a hand when charity involvement is needed.  From donations to collecting Toys for Tots, they make a “yoemans effort.”  The support the Dayton United Rehabilitation Services charity, and have even held fundraisers for a competitor’s bar owner, who had cancer.  Holy Trinity Church and Dayton’s Alzheimers Association have been some of the charities that benefited from previous St Patty’s Day parties.   Thanks to restaurants like this, local charities get that shot in the arm they need to serve the Miami Valley.

 

FIFTH STREET BREWPUB:  Talk about year round commitment, these guys offer a guest bartending spot every Monday for charity.  They also donate a portion of that night’s food receipts to the cause of the week.  This is one of the coolest business philosophies and ensures that every week, Dayton area residents can help their favorite charity.  Did we mention the great venue, food and beer selection?  This brewery also has some of the friendliest staff in town.  Manager Dave Tickel and his crew are second to none.

 

Fifth St. Brewpub manager Dave Tickel with Food Adventures’ Chef House & Hungry Jax on guest bartending night for House of Bread

FRESCO CATERING: Owner Jenn DiSanto is an amazing chef, a wonderful mom and a true inspiration.  She used her own personal triumphs as motivation to host events to help causes like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Dayton.  Jenn has organized some unforgettable charitable dinner events such as “Plating a Night of Hope.”  She also volunteers at various local schools to teach cooking classes for kids.  Chef Jenn is very active in the community and is always giving back. She regularly donates her time, talents and money to several local non-profit organizations, including breast cancer charities.  She has inspired many through her successful fight with the disease.   Being an animal lover, SICSA Pet Adoption Center is another charity close to her heart.  Jenn has been a chef all over the world, and we are lucky this gem eventually landed in the Gem city.

 

GHOSTLIGHT COFFEE: Not many people are as involved in the Dayton community as owner Shane Anderson.  He uses Ghostlight Coffee as a venue to showcase local artists and arts of all types.  From hosting songwriter events that benefit the local Dayton Food Bank, serving up coffee at Masquerage, or  providing a place for local charities to host their events, Ghostlight Coffee is a godsend to many who are fighting for a local cause.  From music to poetry and everything in between.  It seems as if we are seeing Ghostlight at about every charitable event, supporting causes in one way or another.

 

Chef Jenn DiSanto & The Big Ragu. Jenn has a great sense of humor, a giving heart, & makes some of the best food in the world

THE MEADOWLARK RESTAURANT:  Chef and owner Elizabeth Wiley is a pillar of the community.  Besides providing exceptional food at her restaurant, she is involved with countless local causes.  She supports them with her time and money.  For example, Chef Wiley judges the Springfield Food Truck Rally for charity. This benefits the Springfield Rotary Club’s charitable causes, including Services to People with Disabilities, Polio Plus and the International Project in Lesotho, Africa.  Meadowlark is also a big supporter of Dayton Pride and the Greater Dayton LGBT Center championing the cause for equality, locally.   Meadowlark’s chartible reach extends to other programs such as Dayton Public Radio’s Discover Classical, American Institute of Food & Wine,  DaytonNightOut.com and so many others.

 

ONE BISTRO: This place promotes taking care of your neighbor. Dayton’s only “pay what you can afford” or “pay it forward” based restaurant, it is charitable in it’s nature.  The staff is even made up with volunteers.  You can volunteer to earn meals for yourself.  Or you can volunteer as a donation of your time. Owners Robert and Kim Adamson business is driven by their faith in God and community involvement.  We can think of no better cause than feeding the area’s hungry children and adults.  One Bistro’s also donates to the area Red Cross’ Disaster Response Team.

 

Big Ragu with Ghostlight Coffee owner Shane Anderson. Shane generously donates his venue, time and resources to many local causes

SCRATCH CATERING:  For years, Chef Matt Hayden has made terrific BBQ and gourmet meals.  He has also donated to many area causes.  From Dayton History events, to the Fleur’s Et Vin event for AIDS Resource Center Ohio.  Scratch Food has left their imprint on the Dayton area, catering for many charity events.  One such cause is the “Suzy Pender Memorial Fund,”  which provides teddy bears to children at Miami Valley Hospital as a way to comfort them.   Scratch Catering has provided the food for the Pender golf outing fundraiser for the past 15 years.  Unprallelled generosity and dedication is what you find from the owners, here.

 

STONE HOUSE TAVERN:  They are involved in many aspects supporting the Waynesville community.  Stone House supports everything from kids athletic teams, to charitable gift card donations.  They are currently partnering with Archers Tavern for the May 9th “Fairways for Airways” golf outing Pro-Am featuring sports stars like Ickey Woods.  The event will benefit the Jovante Woods Foundation.   We believe in supporting business like this that give back to Dayton in so many ways.

 

THE SUBMARINE HOUSE:  Last year this restaurant donated over $15,000 to Children’s Hospital, at their “Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge” event.   Restaurant owners Jason and Brody Tanner, oversaw the event and check presentation to the hospital.  This event is held annually and the crowds and donations have grown each year.  Great grub, and a great cause, you haven’t been to a charity event until you’ve watched a fellow Daytonian wolf down a 16 inch sub in 2 minutes.  But hey, “it’s for the kids.”

 

The talented Matt Hayden, owner of Scratch Catering is equally witty too. He is a pillar of the local charity community

WHEAT PENNY OVEN & BAR:  Chef Liz Valenti and Chef Elizabeth Wiley are known for their work and generosity at Meadowlark restaurant in the past.  As Chef Liz branched out to run Wheat Penny, they have continued the tradition of giving.  Upon their opening they hosted charity nights for The Artemis Center, SICSA Pet Adoption Center and The  Food Bank of Dayton, respectively.   Other charities supported in the past have been Yellow Springs Pride, GLSEN Dayton Chapter, and AIDS Resource Center Ohio, to name just a few.  Not only is Dayton lucky to have such talented chefs, but we are lucky to have such generous supporters of various Miami Valley causes.

 

YOUNG’S JERSEY DAIRY: Yellow Spring’s favorite farm is big on charity.  From a free Wool Gathering, to a Bike Tour for charity, that supports 4 charities, including United Rehabilitation Services of Dayton.   They always seem to have something going on.  Young’s even hosts a “Cheddar Challenge 5k” benefiting The Antioch University Midwest Scholarship Fund.  All this, while continuing to serve some of the area’s most delicious ice cream.

 

ZOMBIE DOGZ: Local couple Lee and David VanArtsendalen are always giving back to the community.  These owners of Zombie Dogz are always saying “yes” to favors, donations and appearances for good local causes.  Lots of these causes involve animals and dogs.  Like the “Furry Skurry 5k” for the Dayton Humane Society or the Dog Wash for the Battle Buddy Foundation which provides service dogs to veterans.  Just some or their other fundraising appearances have included Harrison Township Trustees’ National Night Out against Crime,    Kettering Funk Lab Dance Studio benefiting the dance team, AMVETS,  Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Stonespring Transitional Care Center police fundraiser, a 5k benefit for Miami Valley Hospital’s Children Intensive Care Unit, Harrison’s Heroes foundationds benefit for the NICU unit at Dayton Children’s Hospital.  They even make stops at local schools and churches.  It is great to see this popular food vendor, with the most inventive and delicious hot dogs, supporting so many local causes.

 

Zombie Dogz has used its success to support many local charities. Thank you David & Lee VanArtsendalen for your hard work.

THE CHAINS:

Here are some of the Dayton area chain restaurants, that give the most locally:

BONEFISH:  Quietly giving and supporting many charity events, we have noticed Bonefish’s involvement on the local level.  They are a sponsor for a local golf outing for Hannah’s Treasure Chest.   Other charities they support include Catholic Social Services, ARC Ohio’s Red Table Gala, and Life Essentials to name just a few.  They also donate countless gift cards to local requests, and are always open to lending a hand.

 

BRAVO! CUCINA ITALIANO:  Bravo will work with various local charities for “dine and donate” nights and give 10% of food revenue to the cause.  They host such events as “Breakfast with Santa.”   From this event, they culminate a winter clothing drive for local shelters and $1 from each buffet sale goes to charity.

 

BRIO TUSCAN GRILL: Brio hosts and donates food to many local events.  For example The Greene Daybreak event, to benefit Dayton Daybreak.  They also sponsor the “Derby Day Brunch” to benefit The Kettering Medical Center Foundation’s Women’s Wellness Fund.  These are just some of the events they cater and support each year.

 

Ted Tolliver owner of the Jersey Mike’s Dayton stores and Regional Manager Larry, have donated tens of thousands to Dayton charities.

CITY BBQ: A regional chain out of Columbus, people really love their BBQ.  We also love when the delicious food is catered to local charity events.  City BBQ is at many of these outings.  They also do a ton of internal donations to Veterans charities, Future Farmers of America (Ohio), Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Local cancer organziations, and Food Rescues.  They also offer 25% event donations to school and booster groups as well as charities.

 

FIREHOUSE SUBS:  These guys are known for their charity mission statement. Their Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation donates money for equipment for local firefighters.  In October 2015, they celebrated a donation of  $39,000 to the Kettering and Fairborn Fire Departments. Since the Foundation’s inception, they have donated $650,000 to Ohio Fire Stations.

 

JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS:  Ted Tolliver owns the local franchises and he gives back to the community with  passion.  He has supported United Rehabilitation Services of Dayton in the past.  In fact, upon each store opening he offered 10,000 free subs for a $1 donation to URS.  Also, each year, during the month of March, customers are invited to come in to their local Jersey Mike’s restaurant and make a donation to a local designated charity partner. The campaign culminates in Jersey Mike’s “Day of Giving, a nationwide event.  This day 100 percent of the day’s sales are donated to each local charity partner. Since 2011, Jersey Mike’s has raised more than $8.3 million for charities throughout the country.  Ted has continually supported the United Rehabilitation Services of Dayton  as his partner charity.

Submarine House donted over $15,000 to Dayton Children’s hospital last year.

LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE, MORAINE:  From pancake breakfast benefits, to event donations, Longhorn is carrying on the tradition of the late manager, Bob Medlin, by continuing to donate to dozens of causes each year.  If we listed all of the charities, it would run for pages.  Dayton Hospice Walk, Shoes for the Shoeless and Brief Blessings, Back2Back Ministries, Big Brothers Big Sisters program of the Greater Miami Valley, Miracle League of Dayton are just of few of the dozens of causes they support.

 

Mike and Shannon Teague run their cake shop, “Cake, Hope and Love,” as one of the most giving businesses in Dayton

Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax are proud to give a shout out to these fine people of Dayton who are making a difference in everyday people’s lives.  Food Adventures would also like to say “Thank You” to these organizations, and a thank you to Dayton Most Metro for giving us a vehicle to present our weekly food scoop.  Make sure you support these eateries that support the community.

There you have it, our list of some of the most generous and charitable restaurants.

DID WE MISS ANYONE ??  IF SO, PLEASE COMMENT BELOW, TO MAKE US AWARE OF THE CHARITABLE ESTABLISHMENT.

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Happy New Year to you all !

Longhorn Steakhouse – the late great Bob Medlin lends a hand to March of Dime’s walk for babies

Chef Elizabeth Wiley uses Meadowlark and Wheat Penny often to support Miami Valley charities

Chef Liz Valenti and Wheat Penny support many Dayton Area causes, like this event for the local Leukemia Lymphoma Society

 

Young’s Dairy – eat their food like this tuna sandwich & cheese curds and know it will come back to the community

Firehouse subs – supporting local firefighters