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“The Growler” Opens on Wilmington Pike

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Co-owner Gary Leasure wants to offer you a beer!

Craft beer lovers who can’t get enough, you have another spot to get your growler filled. “The Growler” is now open in the former “Wright Wing” spot on Wilmington Pike. The same building has housed The Buckin’ Donkey Grille. and Monkeez previously.  Food Adventures has the scoop on the new place…

This sports dive is mainly bar seating and booths, with a few dining tables inside.  Outside there is one hell of a patio.  Other attractions include a killer Happy Hour.

Hungry?   Thirsty? Step inside…

Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu, and Chef House are here to tell you …

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on THE GROWLER:

Dart Boards and more.

—Located at 3808 Wilmington Pike in Kettering, The Growler has a full service bar and plenty of TV’s to catch your favorite event.

—From 3pm to 7pm on weekdays, they have 1/2 off all appetizers and craft beers are only $3.50, tall domestic beers are just $2.25 during this happy hour time too.

—Other attractions: Pinball, dart boards, with live trivia on Wednesdays and Karaoke on Thursdays

Spicy Pulled Pork Pizza

—Owner’s Gary and Steve Leasure are lifelong Daytonians, suggest you check groupon.com for special deals.

—They have 10 rotating taps and various domestic, craft and import bottled beers too.  By May they should be selling their signature “Growlers to go.”

Good drink is usually followed with good eats, so lets get growlin, Food Adventure fans !

 

MUST EATS at THE GROWLER:

Loaded Fries

—LOADED FRIES:
Served on a pizza tin and foil this MOUND of fries is almost a mountain.  Roasted and covered with cheese and bacon, this sinful appetizer is over the top.  Get some ranch and ketchup for dipping and find your self closing your eyes and finding your zen.  We almost did yoga in our plate.

—THE SPICY PULLED PORK PIZZA:  
Unique idea of pulled pork pizza, but they kicked it up a notch with heat.  This pig pizza is on fire with flavor and just the right amount of kick.  Nice innovation, Growler.

The Original Sub

—THE SWEET CHILI WINGS:
A Sweet and Spicy saucy sauce, that is sticky and finger licking good.

—THE ORGINAL SUB: A nice 2 piece sub, with Italian style lunch meat.  Salami, Pepperoni, Capiccola, Marinara, Mozzarella and Banana Peppers make this sub a popular choice.  Served with potato chips it is a filling lunch or dinner.

—BREADED MUSHROOMS:
Nice and hearty, these breaded mushrooms, are a big order and they taste great.

Now for the craft beers…..

They are always listed on BeerMenus.com:  Right now their 10 taps are….
1) Yellow Springs Moon Balloon
2) Warped Wing Trotwood Lager

New place is open !


3) Warped Wing 10 ton Stout
4) Great Lakes Chill Wave IPA
5) The Brew Kettle’s Black Rajah
6) Three Floyds Yum Yum
7) Ace Pineapple Cider
8) Blue Moon
9) Bud Light
10) Miller Lite

Beers waiting in the on deck circle to be tapped…. are …..

-Great Lakes Conway’s Irish Ale
-Madtree Passion Fruit Tart Ale
-Warped Wing Hop Smuggler
-Bear Republic Brewing’s Racer 5 IPA
-Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Stout
-Platform Speedmerchant White IPA
-Jackie O’s Mystic Mama

Deep Fried Mushrooms

**** SPECIAL SCOOP !! ****  THE GROWLER’S ST PATTY  PARTY CLICK HERE

JELLO SHOTS!   NCAA MARCH MADNESS HOOPS EXCITEMENT!
IRISH CRAFT BEER!   BUSHMILL SHOT SPECIALS and more.

Party goes all day Friday, March 17th!

Keep the party going every week right here for feature articles weekly on Dayton Most Metro from the Food Adventure Crew.  Growl at you later.

Outside the Growler

They have a number of subs to choose from

Domestic Bottles 1.70 during happy hour

The Fry at Incarnation is Tonight!

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One of Dayton’s biggest Fish Frys is tonight !

Incarnation Parish will be buzzing tonight, as one of the area’s biggest fish fry’s gets cooking.

Food, Black Jack, Live Music, Beer, and Wine will be the hallmark for this year’s event, and as always we expect lots of people, and lots of fun.  The Food Adventure Crew will even be on hand dealing blackjack for charity.  Come try your luck at other Monte Carlo style games of chance and enjoy some special unveilings.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on THE FRY at INCARNATION:

Fun times at the Blackjack tables

WHEN: Tonight, March 10th, 2017 –
—Carryout Meals 5pm – 6:30pm,
—Eat in 7pm – Midnight

WHERE: Incarnation School,  55 Williamsburg Ln. in Centerville

COST: $20 at the door includes all you can eat fish dinner with

Fish, Beer and More !

fries and cole slaw, and a non-alcoholic drink
—Beer and Wine will be on sale prices ranging from $2 to $5

SPECIAL EVENT:  Warped Wing Brewing Company will be tapping a special experimental hop series beer.  

WHY: All proceeds benefit the  Incarnation School and PTO

Beware, this is a big party and you will be around a big crowd.  There are also silent auction

The cafeteria will soon be full !

items, raffles and so much more.  This is a perfect event to meet up with a group of friends and have yourself a little Food Adventure.

The atmosphere is casual with the event being held in the school cafeteria  and school gymnasium.  We hope you stop out and fill yourself to the gills with some great fried fish !

For more foodie action all over the Dayton area from dives to fine dining, check out Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here…

Feel free to browse our gallery below from past fish frys at Incarnation.

All you can eat

Hecht Family frying fish

Charity workers

Tartar and cocktail sauce

Take a chance on me

Everyday we’re shuff-a-lin

Surprises at Cheesesteak Qualifier, Finals to Follow

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Chef Hayden Shocks the Crowd, wins Qualifier !

Fat Tuesday got even fatter this past week at Submarine House in Centerville. The newly opened restaurant at 503 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. was packed.   Fifteen competitors were ready to take on the Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge and their friends and family were there cheering them on.  Standing room only was the atmosphere as Dayton’s favorite foodies, The Food Adventure Crew called the place to order.

Hungry Jax was the Emcee and official timekeeper was Kris Mick, past champion and cheesesteak eating legend.  We were here to see if any of these big mouths could qualify for the store’s top 10 times.

What happened next was simply epic…….

— LOCAL CHEF MATT “PORK CHOP”

The 16 inch Super Duper Cheesesteak

HAYDEN STUNS THE CROWD WITH  WINNING TIME of 4 minutes 41 seconds. Rumors swirled after the event that the chef and owner of Scratch Food had been training for weeks with an unorthodox diet of ruffage, cabbage and even cauliflower to stretch his stomach.  We cannot confirm this, but his time was amazing.  We did notice his foot stomping and bouncing method while eating.  That may have been a strategy to let the food settle, or it could have been excitement.  We will never know.

Kayla Bradstreet put her hair up, and put the men to shame !

We do know it was a legendary cheesesteak challenge moment and surprising highlight of the night.  When Chef Hayden raised his hands and yelled “done,” he then stuck out his tongue.  The crowd gave him a big pop of applause, hoots and hollers.

 

— DAYTON AREA SOCIALITE KAYLA BRADSTREET, REPRESENTING THE WOMEN, BEATS THE CHALLENGE and shows the men the some girl power !  Calling herself “man hands” she manhandled the sub sandwich into submission with a time of 14 minutes 20 seconds.  The crowd went bonkers as she tilted her head back and sprinkled the last bits of lettuce into her mouth.  She raised her hands and showed her empty mouth in triumph to the roar of women throughout the restaurant.  There were cell phone flashes and people recording videos everywhere.  It was

Chris Goode (left) finished in 5 minutes and Gary “The Growler” Leasure finished in 15 minutes.

Female Food Adventure for the ages.

 

— CHRIS GOODE, LAST MINUTE SUBSTITUTE FOR THE CHROME DIVAS, and the thinnest contestant, destroys his Super Duper Cheesesteak in 5 minutes flat for the 2nd best time. Lesson learned, don’t ever count the little guy out.  Especially if he has a mohawk!  Chris tore into that sandwich and rode off into the sunset on his Harley!  Thank you to the Chrome Diva’s for your support and your great representative !

 

The contestants grow restless – 15 people took the challenge

Bryan Suddith Seducing the Camera

—At the end of the night, the thermometer donation tally was at $686 plus approximately $180 more would be donated from $1,800 of food and drink sales in 2 hours.  Not too bad, about $886 bucks for the night.  We could have never done it without the participation of the contestants and the support of their friends and families.  Thank you to those who came out to watch, eat and drink and who also donated money on the side.  We could not have succeeded without the incredible ownership of Submarine House and their staff.  Their generosity and local support of causes is an example for all.  Thank you to Dayton Dining, Dayton Most Metro, Dayton Chrome Divas, and

The Pink Ribbon Girls for the promotion and support.

This was a one night only fun get together for charity, but it was fun to see who could qualify for the event.  The top 10 times go on to compete for the store championship in mid-April and each store’s champion will be named.  Then each champ moves on to the April 22nd, 1pm event, the finals at the Huber Heights new Submarine House Bar and Grill.  Come watch with us !

 

Triple the Meat, Triple the Cheese and the Works Toppings

**HERE ARE THE FULL RESULTS from the SUBMARINE HOUSE’S 
2nd ANNUAL FOOD ADVENTURE SUPER DUPER CHEESESTEAK QUALIFIER**

—MATT “PORK CHOP” HAYDEN – 4 minutes, 41 seconds:
He put on a clinic.

—CHRIS GOODE – CHROME DIVAS REPRESENTATIVE – 5 minutes even:
Little guy, big appetite !

— JEREMY “SWEETNESS” SWIHART – 5 minutes, 24 seconds.
Easily the most cool, calm and collected contestant of the night.  He was an eating machine.

Mark “the Beard” DaGrossa taking the cheesesteak to task

— TACO “CHEESESTEAK” PHILLY – 8 minutes, 42 seconds. 
The big guy tore through the sandwich like child’s play, joking the whole way through.

— JOE “THE MINISTER OF MEAT” AMSTUTZ – 8 minutes 49 seconds
An impressive display of chomping skills. A terrific time for the big sandwich.

— BRYAN “BABY BLUES” SUDDITH: 10 minutes and 20 seconds.  
Dayton’s top story slammer and ferocious foodie, improved his time over last year by 4 minutes.

Kevin “The Garlic King” Sorice is loving the good food !

— KEVIN “THE GARLIC KING” SORICE – 13 minutes 41 seconds. 
The self declared senior division champ had no problem beating the challenge.

— KAYLA “MAN HANDS” BRADSTREET – 14 minutes 20 seconds.  
Girl power rules!  An unforgettable win.

— NATE “COWBOY” TUCKER – 14 minutes and 22 seconds.  
The big guy put a hurtin on the cheesesteak and squeaked in ahead of the deadline.

— GARY ” THE GROWLER” LEASURE – 15 minutes, 1 second. 
Steady chewing was the key to his success.

— MARK “THE BEARD” DaGROSSA – Could not finish in 16 minutes.  
This real life Santa was steady, he almost did it, but enjoyed the tasty experience.

Chris Kilroy, ready to take the challenge !

— BRIAN “THE BIG APPLE” APPLETON – Could not finish in 16 minutes.
had to go out to the patio for air.

— CHRIS “THE KILLER” KILROY – Could not finish in 16 minutes.  

Disappointed, but thought the sandwich was delicious !

— JOHN “HAMBONE” HAMMOND – Could not finish in 16 minutes.  
Improved over last year, but fell just short this year. Close… real close !

— STEVE “THE BIG RAGU” MILANO – Could not finish in 16 minutes.
He is contemplating retirement

 

Emcee for the Night was Jax from Food Adventures !

****ARE YOU UP FOR THE SUPER DUPER CHEESESTEAK CHALLENGE?****

You may still take the challenge at any Submarine House location through April 2nd.

—WHAT: You must eat a 16 inch SUPER DUPER CHEESESTEAK. Super Duper means this 16 inch sub has triple the meat and triple the cheese of their normal subs.  You have to eat it topped AS IS with “The Works” toppings in less than 16 minutes.   The Works includes: Cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, homemade oil & vinegar dressing & pepper relish.   Grilled Mushrooms also come on the sub.  Important – NO topping substitutions, you have to eat it as is with all of the ingredients.  This is not a baby challenge.  So bring your loose pants.

Packed House Watching !! The night raised almost 900 bucks for Pink Ribbon Girls !

—WHY: If you complete the challenge, your sandwich is free and you win a T-shirt. A portion of the proceeds goes to The Pink Ribbon Girls charity.

—COST: About $23 up front, which is refundable if you complete the challenge successfully.  You can take the challenge at any Submarine House, alone or with a group of friends from Jan 30th through April 2nd.

John “Hambone” Hammond and the Big Ragu could not finish the Super Duper Cheesesteak

Remember, the top 10 fastest times at each store will see the competitors called back in April for the “store championship semi-finals.”  If you win the best time at the store championship, you are off to the finals April 22nd at 1pm at the new Huber Heights Bar & Grill location of Submarine House.

Browse the gallery below from memories of this incredible night for charity.

Still Hungry?  “LIKE” FOOD ADVENTURES ON FACEBOOK by clicking here.  We are not food critics, we are passionate foodies, living and loving the Dayton food scene and sharing our finds!

The Usual Suspects

This mystery man is known by the name Taco Philly !

Nate “Cowboy” Tucker made a good showing !

 

Look! Here come the sammiches !!!

“Hangry” guys before the contest…

Known as “16 inches of Heaven”

Guess which plate was Ragu’s at the end and which one was Kayla’s?

Hot Relish didn’t stop Chef Hayden from winning !

Carey, Mack and Torey were rooting on their friends and supporting charity !

Kayla’s Empty Basket – WOMAN POWER !

Could you eat a cheesesteak with triple the meat and cheese, with the works? 16 inches? in 16 minutes?

Pork Chop finding his ZEN

Baby Blues, Minister of Meat, Garlic King and the Beard

All I want for Christmas is a Submarine House Gift Card !

Kayla beat the Big Ragu and a handful of other guys!

The Killer and Hambone

gu says thank you to Submarine House

The Big Ragu from Food Adventures

Donate to Pink Ribbon Girls – breast cancer charity

The Big Apple is ready

Hammond gets extra points for downing 4 beers before the contest

Kayla has her Gameface on !

Kilroy killin the sub

Corner table looking for the beef

make your own caption

Congrats Kayla

Kayla shuns the paparazzi

chomps heard round the world

Kayla has a food baby

2017 Super Duper Cheesesteak Food Adventure

Matt Hayden is a Cheesesteak qualifier !

This is just one HALF of the sandwich

Bryan’s got this…

Kelsie is an amazing host !

 

 

 

 

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Oscar Week -Top 60 FOOD Scenes in Movies

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“Bluto’s Cafeteria Scene” in Animal House

With the Oscars approaching, we thought we would do a little twist..  As you know, our blog usually centers around local Food Adventures.  Thousands of fellow Miami Valley foodies discuss, like, suggest and comment on various Dayton area restaurants, festivals, photos and events.  We even have a website, DaytonFoodies.com

What we don’t have (yet) is a movie studio.  Being fanatical fans of delicious grub, we have developed a love for various movie scenes over our lifetime.  With the Oscars coming up this Sunday, we thought the timing was right for a list of our favorite movie scenes with food…

This guy is about to get “Whacked” at dinner

A little unorthodox, but what the heck… here is our “Top 60 Food Adventures” of Hollywood.

 

So here , without further delay, Food Adventures with the Big Ragu, Chef House and Hungry Jax present our list of..

THE TOP 60 CLASSIC DINING and FOOD SCENES in MOVIES (click on the movie title for a link to see a video of the scene)

 

Oliver wants some more soup, you bastards

1—ANIMAL HOUSE – “BLUTO’S CAFETERIA SCENE”:  
Who can forget this classic scene with Belushi scarfing down food at his college cafeteria. The scene ends with Bluto’s imitation of a zit and the famous “food fight” yell.  This could easily be Big Ragu at MCL Cafeteria.

 

2— THE GODFATHER – “MICHAEL’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT SHOOTING”:

Charlie Chaplin is so poor he has to eat his shoe

Incredibly tense scene at an Italian restaurant between two mob families that ends in murder.  The other scenes in the Godfather that make honorable mention are “Leave the gun, take the cannoli scene”  and “the Godfather’s Orange scene.”

 

3— OLIVER! – “PLEASE SIR, I WANT SOME MORE”:  
The little orphan gets ballsy and approaches the mean orphanage director for seconds on soup. In this poor setting, it doesnt go over so well.  Preceded by the classic song “Food Glorious Food.”  A musical for the ages.

 

Spaghetti dinner for Lady and the Tramp

4— LADY AND THE TRAMP – “SPAGHETTI DINNER”:  
One of Hungry Jax’s favorites. A Disney animated classic about puppy love.  Who can forget the two dogs eating the same strand of spaghetti into a kiss?  The first “nose nudging” of a meatball scene in movie history.  If only every first date was like this one, with Italian music in the background.

 

5—THE GOLD RUSH – “SHOE FOR DINNER“:

Goodfellas, Sausages and Bulldogs


Charlie Chaplin plays this lovable man who is down on his luck in this silent film.  Hungry and poor on Thanksgiving, there is no food left, so he decides to eat his leather shoe.  The result is one of the classic scenes in film history, from a true genius.

 

Poison Apple for Snow White

6— “GOODFELLAS BACKYARD PICNIC”:  
A classic mob movie with lots of food scenes.  Chef House loves this scene where everybody is eating sausages and taking care of business at the back yard picnic.  Two other scenes worth noting are the “SPAGHETTI and KETCHUP” scene and the “DINNER IN PRISON” scene.  Both classic views into the Italian mob life and how important food was to them.

 

7— SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES: “THE APPLE”:  

Gump and a box of Chocolates

A creepy scene where the witch tempts Snow White with a poisoned apple.  Asking her just to “make a wish and take a bite.”  Don’t do it Snow White, that bitch is cray cray…  This Disney animated movie was groundbreaking artistic work at the time.

 

8—FORREST GUMP: “BOX OF CHOCOLATES”:  
Mama always said “Life is like a box of chocolates… you never know what you’re gonna get.”  When Tom Hanks uttered these words, so was born one of the most famous lines in movie history.  Ether Price agrees.

Kim Basinger cools off

9— 9 1/2 Weeks – “EROTIC REFRIGERATOR SCENE”:  
Who could forget this sexy scene with Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke when he still had his own face.  Spilled milk, honey and strawberries never looked so good.  Like many movie scenes, the background music made it a classic.  Here it was the 1964 song “Bread and Butter” by the Newbeats.

 

10— ROCKY – “RAW EGGS FOR BREAKFAST”:

Rocky and Raw Eggs

A boxer has to do what he has to do to get some protein in this world.  Sylvester Stallone gulps down some raw eggs before dawn in this unforgettable scene.  Yo Adrian, he has to get ready for Apollo Creed ya know?

 

11— WHEN HARRY MET SALLY – “ORGASM AT KATZ DELICATESSEN”:
Meg Ryan does her best imitation of having a big “O” in the middle of a crowded deli.  The scene is an instant classic and is cemented in the annuals in a movie mostly about the battle of the sexes.    We have never seen anyone do this at DiSalvo’s Deli, 5th Street Deli or Flyboys

Meg Ryan loves her deli sandwich !

Deli, thank goodness.  The scene ends with the customer across the restaurant saying the classic line “I’ll have what she’s having.”

 

12— CHRISTMAS VACATION – “TIME TO CUT THE TURKEY”:
Chevy Chase digs in with all the family, including cousin Eddie.  He finds the turkey a bit overdone and dry.  But hey, they are going to have the hap happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby danced with Danny friggin Kaye.  Two other famous food line in this scene:

I found the heart !

“Aunt Bethany, does your cat by any chance eat jello?” — I don’t know about the cat, but I sure am enjoying it.”  Also “he’s just yackin on a bone”.. blllleeeaack.. he got it up.”  And who could forget the egg nog scene1 and egg nog scene 2

 

What’s Your Problem?

13— THE BREAKFAST CLUB – “LUNCH SCENE”:
A Preppy, a Jock, a Nerd, a Stoner and a Weirdo unpack their lunch.  From Sushi to donuts and pixie stix, the result is a classic foodie scene. This movie is a perfect look into high school life in the 1980’s.  Thank goodness no one took Mike Bender up on his “eat my shorts” offer.  There are a ton of great lines in this one including “Where’s your lunch?” — You’re Wearing it…

Chilled Monkey Brains

 

14— INDIANA JONES and THE TEMPLE of DOOM – “CHILLED MONKEY BRAINS”:  
In another country, Indy Jones and his crew must learn not to insult “his highness” and eat the exotic and downright disgusting dishes served up one after the other.  Snake Suprise?  Chilled Monkey brains? Huge Beetles? When eyeball soup is the soup du jour, you might want to leave and go to Rue Dumaine instead.

 

Willy Wonka sips syrup from a candy cup

15— WILLY WONKA – “THE CHOCOLATE ROOM”:
Gene Wilder unleashes the brats into his world of pure imagination.  Ladies and gentlemen… the chocolate room.  You can even eat the dishes.  But the damn Augustus kid falls into the chocolate river and ruins all the fun.

 

16— E.T. the EXTRA TERRESTRIAL: “E.T. TRIES REESE’S PIECES”:
Drew Barrymore and Elliot get E.T. into the house by using a trail of Reese’s Pieces.  This scene put that candy on the map.  It is crazy to imagine that an alien would come all this way and love processed chocolate.

Don’t Let this man bite your Big Kahuna Burger

 

17— PULP FICTION – “ROYALE WITH CHEESE”:
John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson have a classic discussion about McDonalds in France.  Another great food scene in this movie worth mentioning is the “Big Kahuna Burger scene.” Don’t ever let Samuel L. Jackson take a sip of your soft drink.

What’s in the pot?

 

18— FATAL ATTRACTION – “PET RABBIT IN THE POT”:
Horrifying climax to a stalker scene where Glenn Close’s character boils the pet rabbit.  She’s “not going to be ignored.”  We think the family probably ended up ordering out for delivery that night, after this scene.  Worst Food Adventure on film.

 

Do NOT drink Chianti with this Mofo

19— SILENCE OF THE LAMBS – “LIVER, FAVA BEANS, CHIANTI”:
When psycho cannibals brag about eating whiners with wine, you have a classic movie clip.  We don’t like whiners either, but prefer to avoid them, rather then sautee them.  Oh well, Anthony Hopkin’s other mention is from Hannibal – WARNING in this GRAPHIC SCENE, he feeds Ray Liotta’s character a piece of his brain, lightly pan seared.  Don’t look for this on any Food Adventure menus, anytime soon.

 

20—WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE – “RATS IN THE CELLAR”:

When we see a covered dish, we remember this scene…


Bette Davis is a vengeful servant in this dark 1962 film also starring Joan Crawford.  Blanch’s Lunch scene is unforgettable.To this day whenever we see a covered dish… we just don’t know what lurks beneath!  She could have at least served her some side dishes with this meal, don’t you think ?  Heartless wench!

 

Yeah Dad, just fold the bread and jam it in there

21—KRAMER vs KRAMER – “FRENCH TOAST”:
A newly separated dad finds out that making his son’s favorite breakfast is not so simple.  Also, it reiterates the importance of hot pads.  Later in the movie you see the pair have come full circle and have turned breakfast into a well oiled machine… It is a sad scene because they have just found out they are going to be separated again by a judge’s order in divorce court.  You’ll never look at French toast the same again….

You want your steak? HERE !

 

22—RAGING BULL – “DON’T OVERCOOK MY STEAK”:
A look into an abusive Italian boxer’s relationship with his wife.  When she has had enough of his grief she serves him his dinner, he flips out in return.  Just remember this was based on a true story.  Robert Deniro won a Best Actor Oscar for his performance of real life fighter,  Jake LaMotta.  The film was shot in black and white.

Hit the Rock during prayer

23—TALLADEGA NIGHTS – “DINNER PRAYER”:
A politically incorrect, yet very funny take on a NASCAR family saying a prayer before their meal.  Hilarity ensues.  Some of the best one liners on this list are in this scene.  Not for the easily offended.

The Hit King doesn’t like Hair in his Sushi

24—BRUNO – “PETE ROSE’S SUSHI”:
Although this scene was in the credits.  It is one of the most hilarious food scenes ever.  Pete Rose is brought in for what he thinks is a legit interview.  There is no furniture so he has to sit on people, and the scene climax is dinner being served.  The catch is, the sushi is laid out on the prone body of a hairy , large man.  Bon appetite Pete!  His reaction is priceless, as is his response.  Now we know why he prefers Montgomery Inn.

Deck The Halls with Bells of Holly ….

 

25—A CHRISTMAS STORY – “CHINESE CHRISTMAS DINNER”:  
Who could forget the waiters singing “Deck the Halls” to the family at Christmas dinner?  This cult classic is a part of the holiday season each year.  Also, we learn that Peking Duck is Chinese Turkey to a kid!

The guy on the left isn’t stretching

26—BLAZING SADDLES – “CAMPFIRE DINNER”:  
See what happens when the cowboys sit down at the campfire after days of eating pork n beans.  One of the first gas scenes in motion picture history.  Lesson, if you have been eating beans, don’t turn your back to the camp fire.  “How bout some more beans Mr Taggart?” — I’d say you’ve had enough…

The Battle of Wits

27—THE PRINCESS BRIDE– WINE WITH VIZZINI:  
The battle of wits has begun.  Which glass is poisoned with the deadly iocaine powder?  One of funniest character scenes in the movie.  The unforgettable line, “Never go in against a Sicilian when death is on the line! hahahahaha… (plop)”   This scene had to make the list…

You’re a Hooka?

28— ARTHUR – “DINNER WITH A HOOKER”:  
This one is broken up into 3 clips. a) Arthur meets his date for the evening.  b) Arthur realizes his date’s occupation  c) Dinner ends and Arthur’s aunt Pearl is across the dining room.   This movie is a riot and the upscale restaurant scene is worthy of a top spot on this list.  “Are you a hooka?  Jezzus I forgot, I just thought I was doing great with you.”  Probably not the thing to say in a posh, elegant eatery.  We miss Dudley Moore.

We’re puttin’ the band back together

 

29— THE BLUES BROTHERS – “FINE DINING RESTAURANT SCENE”:  
The genius of Dan Akroyd and John Belushi’s characters in the most unexpected of places.  Nothing says threatening your friends to join your band by showing up at their work and threatening to disrupt the entire place.  Well.. actually disrupting the entire place and disturbing the entire dining room.  All because they are putting the band back together and need the waiter in their horn section.

Presto Wingso

30— HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S  STONE –  “FEAST at HOGWARTS”:
A giant feast in the hall has Harry Potter and his friends in awe.  Does anyone know a Pepto Bismol spell?  And you know it’s not a dinner party until “Nearly Headless Nick” shows up.  Eat up Harry, your adventure awaits…

 

31— TOMMY BOY – “MY PRETTY NEW PET”:
Chris Farley’s scene in a diner, where he tells a

Ohhhh Nooooo !

waitress why he ruins everything he touches.   David Spade’s comments on Shrimp Cocktail are also classic.  Farley wins the sympathy of the waitress who fires up the deep fryer to make Tommy Boy some chicken wings.  “Tommy likey, Tommy want wingy..”  Some people are now calling Big Ragu “biscuit” because of this scene.

 

32— MRS DOUBTFIRE – “PIE ON HER FACE”:  
Without his female mask, Robin Williams’ character has to do some quick thinking when a guest stops by to visit Mrs Doubtfire.  Thankfully a pie in the refrigerator helps save the day.

Hellooooooo !

Putting whip cream on his face from the pie, Mrs. Doubtfire appears, apologizing for wearing her nightly meringue mask, part of her beauty regiment.”  A great scene, where she even drop a bit of the mask cream into her guests coffee.

 

33—CADDYSHACK – “BABY RUTH IN THE POOL”:
When someone flings a candy bar into the pool, paranoia ensues.   People bail and finally Spaulding snorkles up to the BabyRuth bar and screams “Doodie!”  Another great food related joke from the movie is Rodney Dangerfield in the Country Club restaurant saying  “This steak still has marks where the jockey was hitting it.”  Or how about Rodney in  the pro shop saying “buy a hat like this and you get a

Doodie !

free bowl of soup.”

 

34—THE UNTOUCHABLES- “BAT DINNER”:
Who could forget this intense movie clip? Robert Deniro’s classic scene playing Al Capone talking to his men, about baseball.  This conversation has a surprise ending at dinner.  It might be hard to eat dessert after this scene.

 

What da ya mean ya don’t tip ?

35—RESERVOIR DOGS – “I DON’T TIP”:
Steve Buscemi goes on a rant in this Quenten Tarantino film about gratuity.  “Mr Pink” is pretty much every waiter and waitresses worst nightmare.  A classic roundtable ensues of crooks and murderers discussing the finer points of manners.

Be Our Guest !

36— BEAUTY AND THE BEAST – “BE OUR GUEST”:
Animated classic scene with marching of the banquet food.  When your candle holders, plates and tea kettle start singing about how they are tired of collecting dust.  It is time to throw a dinner party.  One of Hungry Jax’s favorite scenes.

 

YEEEEEOOWWWAAA !

37— YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN – “DINNER WITH THE BLIND MAN”:  
Nothing pisses a Frankenstein monster off more that hot soup dumped on his crotch, a mishandled toast, and lighting his finger and cigar at once.  This comical scene based on the original horror classic is unforgettable.  Peter Boyle and Gene Hackman are perfect in this one.

 

38—BACK TO THE FUTURE – “TAB, PEPSI FREE”:

The moment you realize that’s your dad 30 years ago

Oh the change in language a few decades can cause.  Marty McFly newly stuck in 1954, stumbles into a diner and learns it is more difficult to order something to drink than he expects.  Then he realizes he is sitting next to his 18 year old dad.

 

Learn the 4 Food groups – North Pole style

39— ELF – “THE FOUR FOOD GROUPS”:
We learn from Will Ferrell that the four food groups are indeed  candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup.  We had it all wrong!  Oh well, the Christmas season is a time for learning, so we will try maple syrup on spaghetti during our next pasta night.

 

You think you could keep the snails off the food….

40— THE JERK – “SNAILS ON HER PLATE”:
Steve Martin’s character flips out when he orders escargot then goes ballistic because there are snails on the plate.  “You would think at a fancy restaurant like this, at these prices you would be able to keep the snails off the food.”  Equally funny is the line “2 boobs, that’s what he takes us for.”  Watch the clip and you will see why.  Also, check this clip of Navin’s birthday meal “Tuna fish salad on white bread with mayonnaise, a Tab and a couple of twinkies.”

A little ham and eggs comin at ya

41—ANCHORMAN – “A LITTLE JAZZ FLUTE”:
Ron Burgandy wows the dinner crowd like only he can.  Suave 70’s style and seductive sultry flute notes is all he needs.  “A little ham and eggs comin at ya.”  If only every restaurant had jazz flute night.

 

42—ANNIE HALL – “LOBSTERS ON THE LOOSE”: 
Woody Allen and Diane Keaton’s </strong>characters, try to cook live lobsters.  The result is they are both scared to handle to

Whenever I wake up ….

live creatures and they somehow end up crawling away on the kitchen floor, behind the refrigerator. Woody’s worried comments only add to the comedy.

 

43— MY BEST FRIENDS WEDDING – “I SAY A LITTLE PRAYER FOR YOU”: 
When Julia Robert’s character attends an engagement dinner, her friend breaks out an old Dionne Warwick/ Bert Bacharach song.  The result is the entire table singing an unforgettable

He’s gonna ….

version of “Say a Little Prayer.”  This scene was an instant classic, and propelled the career of Rupert Everett as well.  Feast and song, every Food Adventure should be so fun.

 

44—STAND BY ME – “BARF-O-RAMA”: 
A story of revenge is the reason for this scene.  Never in the history of cinema has their been more people puking on camera in a scene.  A pie eating contest gone wrong at the county fair is the premise of this legendary “barf” story.  People projectile vomiting blueberry pies, for your viewing pleasure

And to drink… Peru !

45— BETTER OFF DEAD- “FRENCH BREAD, PERU”:  
A foreign exchange student is welcomed to the USA by her host family in an absurd display of “french” food.  This underrated teen movie classic, addresses obsession, foreign students, and paperboys just trying to collect… two dollars.

 

Dinner with Samantha’s family

46— SIXTEEN CANDLES – “DINNER WITH GRANDPARENTS”:
Long duck Dong tries Keesh pie and explains at the dinner party that he pushes the lawnmower so Grandpa’s “Hyena” don’t get disturbed.  This John Hughes classic shows the tough life of a teenage in the 80’s being embarrassed by your parents and grandparents, all while chasing the guy of your dreams.

 

47—GROUNDHOG DAY – “BIG BREAKFAST”:  

Bill Murray is HUNGRY

Living the same day over and over can cause you problems.  But one of the benefits is you can eat whatever you want to, and it doesnt matter.  Bill Murray drinks out of the coffee pitcher, orders donuts and pancakes, all in a day’s breakfast.

 

48—FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF – “SAUSAGE KING SCENE”:  

Yes… I’m Abe Froman the Sausage King of Chicago

When trying to get seated at a posh restaurant, Ferris looks at the guest book and sees the name “Abe Fromann.”   When he tells the host, he realizes he has just claimed to be the sausage king of Chicago.  This was one of Ferris’ few failures of the day. 

 

Food and PFFFFT !

49— THE NUTTY PROFESSOR – “KLUMPS DINNER and FART SCENE”:  
When you invite the Klumps to dinner, you might want to make sure you have some renuiz-it air freshener on hand.  Even little “Herc-a-leees” gets into the gas game.  Eddie Murphy plays almost every character in this scene.

Horatio Sands has a Microwave in his sweatpants

50— ROAD TRIP – “YOUR FRENCH TOAST IS ALMOST DONE”:
Before you say your waiter is a nice guy, make sure he isn’t dipping your French toast in his underpants to steam it.  Horatio Sans is that waiter.  Not Oscar worthy, but a scene you won’t soon forget.

 

51— MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING – “BUNDT CAKE”:
The fun of language barriers and cultural differences is exposed in this scene.  A simple

Bundthh , Bunddth , BUNT Bunddth, BUN, BUNDT

gesture, such as giving a cake for a gift causes an English lesson and confusion.  Next time, just bring the Greek family a bottle of Ouzo. OPA !

 

52— AMERICAN PIE – “ITS JUST LIKE WARM APPLE PIE”:  
When asking his friends what it is like losing his virginity, his friend tells him it is like warm apple pie.  Somehow this leads to him being caught by his dad while making it with a pie.  Ahh the things parents have to deal with.

Warm Apple Pie

53— MONTY PYTHON’S THE MEANING OF LIFE – “BIG GUY IN A RESTAURANT”:
A large, “difficult” customer in every way, in an upscale restaurant sets the scene.  This clip shows the inherent humor in the actions of waiters in posh restaurants, literally putting up with everything a client does.  Enjoy the surprise ending.

 

54— NATIONAL LAMPOONS VACATION – “THE DOG WENT ON THE PICNIC BASKET”:
No worse time to realize you are eating a sandwich soaked in dog pizz, than when you are flirting with supermodel Christie Brinkley.  Chevy Chase’s dance moves with wheat bread

Sandwich a little wet?

are the best in the business.

 

55— ACE VENTURA 2- “DO I HAVE SOMETHING IN MY TEETH?“:
The over the top comedy of Jim Carrey on display in another one liner.  This one involves food and holds the records for most asparagus in a mouth in movie history.

Do I have something in my teeth?

56—THE WOLF OF WALL STREET – “CHEST POUND at the RESTAURANT”:
You’re at a high rise restaurant, and your business associate starts humming and pounding his chest.   In between the olives and martinis you listen to his speech.  Is he crazy or a genius?  You decide.  

 

57— DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS – “RUPRECHT”:  
A great scene with Steve Martin and Michael Caine as they plan to scam a woman out of her riches.  You wont look at applesauce and corked forks the same way ever again.

Can I go to the bathroom? thank you ….

 

58— AS GOOD AS IT GETS – “RESTAURANT”:
When you have obsessive compulsive disorder like Jack Nicholson does in this film, someone sitting in your favorite restaurant table can be a bit difficult to deal with.  There are so many good food scenes in this movie. From the many deli scenes, to using bacon for dog treats, it was hard to pin down one favorite moment.

Eat Tina !

59—NAPOLEON DYNAMITE – “TINA, EAT THE FOOD”:
What is more strange, Napoleon Dynamite or the fact that he has a Llama as a pet.  The disgusted main character hates everything, including feeding the pet.  “Tina you fat lard, come get some dinner.”  Aaahh the frustrated life of a high school kid.

 

60—THE BIG LEBOWSKI – “GROCERY SCENE”:
The dude, in a bath robe at the grocery, decides to open a carton of half & half for a test smell.  This is the opening scene of the movie.  Sometimes there’s a man, who’s the man for his time and place and apparently the laziest man in Los Angeles county.

The dude

Honorable Mention: a) “The Donut Bribe Scene” in the Canadian classic movie “STRANGE BREW.”  It is the famous scene that brought us the phrase ” It’s a jelly .”   This film made Bob and Doug Mckenzie cult classic heroes, and introduced us to a whole new vocabulary of slang phrases like “who horked our clothes?”  and “How’s it going eh?.” Ahh, such  International education value from these beer loving “brothers!”

You hoser, gimme a donut, eh ?

b) “Fink vs the Stomach Hot Dog Eating Contest” from the movie “MEATBALLS”  It stars Bill Murray as the best summer camp counselor of all time.  Look at those steaming wienies… Could this be the year that Fink beats the other camp eater, simply known as “The Stomach.”  Watch the whole movie and learn why … “It just doesn’t matter…. it just doesn’t matter…it just doesn’t matter.”

This is the year Fink beats”The Stomach”

 

So that’s it – our favorite food scenes.  Did we forget any?  Were there any on this list you disagree with ?  Comment below.

Enjoy the Oscars and remember to grab some Mikesells for the night.  Also  – “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by Clicking HERE.  Like all movie stars, we are also on TWITTER as well.  Please “follow” us.

 

Dinner, Baseball and a Home Run – The Untouchables

 

Lobster problems in the movie “Annie Hall”

 

 

 

 

It’s the Chest Pounding, humming, Wolf of Wall Street

Ordering with puke on his tux – Monthy Pythons Meaning of Life

OCD.. is easy as 1,2,3

Christmas Vacation – Dry Turkey

Christmas Vacation family

Willy Wonkas chocolate room

Willy Wonka’s chocolate room

Tommy Boy – deturd

Talladega Nights prayer

Stand by Me… pies

Hannibal the movie – that smells good

Charlie Chaplin forks a boot in Gold Rush

Reservoir Dogs – you dont tip ????

Harry Potter hungry

Feast for Harry Potter and friends

Oliver at the orphanage

Perfect French toast now

Kramer vs Kramer – french toast fail – burn hand

Goodfellas Garlic

Paulie in GoodFellas

Ketchup and noodles – old school – GOODFELLAS

Goodfellas – spiral time

Veal Dinner is interrupted – The Godfather

Christmas Story – the duck is smiling at me

Caddyshack – Baby Ruth in the pool

Peter Rose in Bruno

Blues Brothers

Beans on Blazing Saddles

Cherries – 9 1/2 weeks

Olives – 9 1/2 weeks

 

 

 

E.T. phone for more Reeses Pieces

MCL Cafeteria: Not Just for Granny Anymore

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MCL Cafeteria, Not just for Grandma Anymore

“Hey you wanna join us for dinner?”

–Yeah sure…

“Ok meet us over at MCL Cafeteria..”

–MCL???? What ??

Yes it’s true.  There is a young movement underway.  Slowly, but surely, the nation’s seniors are sharing their well kept secret.  What secret?  They know that the

From Coconut Cream Pie to Pumpkin Pie, the desserts are where it’s at

food at MCL Cafeteria is actually pretty decent !  Sure it is a chain and we at Food Adventures conquer the local local local… but damn, Sam, take a lookie here.  Yes, there are walkers, people with dentures and mostly soft food.  But the comfort food is reminiscent of home made, family get-together dinners.

So, it is basically a senior place, and it is pretty cool .. think of it as “a Grandpa who uses SnapChat.”  You wanna hang out with that guy.  So is the case here.  This is no metamucil Food Adventure.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on MCL CAFETERIA:

See the colors of the rainbow on the assembly line of MCL Cafeteria

—In 1950, in Indianapolis, Charles McGaughey and George Laughner founded the first MCL Cafeteria. They took the first letters of their last names, hence the name MCL.

—The Dayton area MCL Cafeteria is located at 4485 Far Hills Ave, Kettering

—With 16 locations in Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, their website says they maintain a family owned and operated company.

Roast Beef ready to be Carved

—They use local produce when in season, and offer catering, and have a special section for “to-go” orders, which is really busy.

—Their hours are shorter, because Granny needs her beauty sleep.  They close at 8:30pm. They open everyday at 11am, except Sundays which is 10:30am.

—You walk in and in assembly line fashion, get a tray, and pick your food “a la carte.”

—The daily deal is the “Blue Plate Special” is $8.95 and includes an entree and 2 sides, typically.  That’s blue plate, not blue hair special…

Salads and Fruits offered

 

With an empty tray and so many choices, what are you gonna do?  What are you going to get? Grandpa is nudging you in the ribs with his cane, to keep you moving along….  From our numerous trips over the past year to MCL, we got you covered with our patented “MUST EATS!”

 

She’s My Cherry Pie !

MUST EATS at MCL CAFETERIA:

—THE PIES:
 These are the highlight of the assembly line and placed at the end for good reason.  From Cherry Pie made with Michigan cherries to Chocolate Cream Pie.  Even the Peach Pie and Pecan Pie with fresh Georgia Pecans make outstanding choices.  Even better than that, they are delicious.  When in doubt, grab a piece of pie to guarantee a happy ending at MCL Cafeteria.

 

—THE FRIED WHOLE CATFISH:  
These babies are dipped in milk and covered with

Fried Catfish – one of our faves at MCL

seasoned cornmeal.  After frying, these crispy Louisiana fish give you a crunch, then melt in your mouth feeling.  The tartar sauce for dipping is the perfect finishing touch. Big Ragu’s Favorite !

 

—SWISS VEAL:  
When they say “try the veal,” they really mean it this time.  A fried veal cutlet, covered with Swiss cheese, then covered with a white

Swiss Veal – a cult favorite at MCL

gravy.  Probably one of the better choices, like many of these plates, it has that homemade, family feel, close to that of Thanksgiving.

 

—SALISBURY STEAK:
A good looking chopped steak, grilled up nice and juicy, then covered in gravy.  May we suggest mashed potatoes to take you back to your childhood?  Corn for the closer?  Sometimes the sides make all the difference in the entree.

 

—ACORN SQUASH SIDE:

The best side at MCL Cafeteria is the Acorn Squash

If you see this side, stop the line abruptly and grab one.  What a great deal this deliciously baked veggie is, with a buttery syrup juice in the cavity inside.   This is heaven on earth and a definite MUST EAT !

 

—FRIED CHICKEN:
One of the kings of comfort food, MCL serves it up golden brown with all the fixings. This is possibly their most popular item. Again the comfort food and southern feel of this entree with the sides, will have you dreaming of old family dinner days.

 

Chicken Parm

—CHICKEN PARMESAN:
A fresh chicken breast, hand-breaded with seasoned crumbs from their bakery, fried to the perfect shade of golden brown. They top it with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Served with pasta and topped with more marinara sauce (optional).

 

HONORABLE MENTION:
The Salads are very good, and nice and fresh.  Also, the dinner rolls are amazing, with a dab of butter.  They have a variety of side breads to choose from, all made in their on-site bakery.

Fresh Salads

So now you know about the food, he on-site bakery and the glowing clientele, you may see MCL Cafeteria in a different light.  Give it a visit for your own family Food Adventure.  Kids love the assembly line and the looks and smells.  MCL is also a great place if you are alone and want a quick in and out dinner or lunch.  It is not cheap dining, and by the time you get a drink and dessert or bread side, you’re looking at $15-$17 per person, so be fair warned.  But the food is worth it.

The long walk to the cafeteria assembly line

This place isn’t just for grandparents anymore.  You cannot deny that they have some great home made items on the menu.  It is homestyle cooking the whole group can enjoy.  We are starting to notice more and more young people at the cafeteria.

What time do the 90 year olds go, typically?  Depends…

Want more fun spin on local eateries?  Visit Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here.  The Food Adventure Crew consists of the Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax.  Bringing you perspectives of local food from a foodie bachelor’s, a locally obsessed professional chef and an Italian mom’s point of view.  Original events, photos, website and classes are just some of what we offer.

Please browse the food porn gallery below from our various visits to MCL Cafeteria.

Fried Chicken and more for the plucking

EARLY HOURS !

Fish and more

Dinner rolls

Peach friggin Pie

Sugar Pie and puddings

Stewed tomatoes

Roast Beef

Twice baked potato and Swiss Veal

More Salads

Chopped Steak, mashed potatoes/Gravy, Mac n Cheese

Closing the place down at 8:30pm

There’s always room for jello

Serving up Baked fish and Chicken Parm

Baked Chicken

Sausages and Kraut

We got the Beets

Fried chicken

Foccacia Rolls

Dont they know the damage Hungry Jax would do ??

Outside

Toss my salad

More salads

Chicken Croquette and baked fish

Getting the scoop

Pecan Pie

Hey Grandpa! Take us to MCL !!

Carved Turkey

Chocolate Creme Pie

Corn Bread

Salsbury steak

Chicken Parmesan

 

 

 

 

 

 

Iconic Dayton Bartender to Retire after 50+ years

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Rick Busch, legendary Dayton Bartender at Franco’s

Some Daytonians are unforgettable characters.  Such is the case with lifelong barkeep, Rick Busch.  He is set to retire from Franco’s Ristorante Italiano on Tuesday February 7th, after over 50 years in the business, the last 15 years at Franco’s.

If you have seen or met Rick, you would never forget him.  He has a quick wit, and is well known for his sarcastic jokes.  His trademark mustache and beard are throwback style.  His deep, rich voice and laugh are unmistakable.  Rick is sharp, and is a treasure trove of information about the Miami Valley restaurant scene.  He is a lifelong Dayton foodie, and always up for a Food Adventure.

Rick says “Franco’s World Famous spaghetti” is a Must Eat !

Whether talking about a past or present local eatery, he usually has a great story or insight on the place.  We chatted with Rick about old restaurants like the “Cork n Cleaver” and shared recent memories from this past year’s Italian Festival.  His infectious smile is a testament to his craft as a bartender.  He is knowledgeable, and makes you feel at home.  No wonder he has had a successful career spanning five decades.

Moretti Beer at the bar served by Rick

The long days of standing on your feet for several hours in a row, and the toll it takes, caused Rick to decide it was time to retire at this point in his life.  He also works for clients through a Dayton senior service care company.  We assume he may continue that part time.

So how did he become this legendary bartender??  Let’s find out!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on ICONIC DAYTON BARTENDER, RICK BUSCH:

—He grew up in West Carrollton and regularly meets with a group of classmates from his high

Tuesday Feb 7th, 2007 ends 50 years of bartending

school class of ’64.  With his wisdom, he explains the importance of time with good friends, because life is way too short.

—Rick started bar tending at the 400 Club in the mid 1960’s, which was Dayton’s first gay bar on 400 Warren St.  He said “if people knew some of the stories that went on in that place, oh boy…”

—He also worked bar at the legendary Stockyards Inn on Springfield Street in Dayton and a stint at Frigidaire in 1976.

Steve and Rick at Dayton’s Italian Fall Festa

—His next move was the Bar Manager at the Daytonian Hotel at Third and Ludlow Streets from 1980-1984.  During that time, first lady Nancy Reagan paid a visit and dined.

—Over the next 17 years, Rick would work at the TWA Ambassadors club at the Dayton Airport, tending bar.  Oh, the stories he must have heard and shared over the years.

—In 2001, he started working at Franco’s Italian restaurant, on Fifth Street, where he was an immediate fixture.  This is where the Food Adventure Crew first met him.  The food and drink are always good, but Rick puts his special touch on service that you can’t describe.  You

Rick running the Cash Register at Franco’s on Fifth Street

have to experience it yourself.  An era is truly coming to an end (insert one of Rick’s jokes here).
We decided to put some stats together based on averages, to estimate of the number of people Rick has served over the last 50 years.  We figured out that Rick has served approximately 780,000 customers.  We figured 234,000 which would have been served at Franco’s alone.  That is an amazing feat.

 

We estimate Rick has served 234,000 people in his 15 years at Franco’s

—On a personal level Rick loves good food & wine.  He loves to explore local eateries, & loves to travel.  He loves to dine in locally owned & operated, small town restaurants.  He is also known for hosting some epic parties at his Beavercreek home.

 

Food Adventures has our favorite “Must Eats” at Franco’s, but today, we thought, “who better to seek that expertise from, than Rick Busch?”  He has 2 favorites from his 15 years working with the menu.

Rick serving up calamari and garlic bread

RICK BUSCH’S “MUST EATS” at FRANCO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO:

—FETAGO di MANZO (CALVES LIVER AND ONIONS):
Liver sliced and sautéed to perfection in Franco’s kitchen.  Served either Italian-style with sauce or American-style with onions.  Rick says this dish is fantastic.

 

—FRANCO’S WORLD FAMOUS SPAGHETTI:
Spaghetti noodles tossed is a combination of Romano cheese, fresh roasted garlic and olive oil.

Peroni Italian Beer

We love to add mushrooms, but Rick says, instead, add Franco’s homemade, special Italian sausage (insert one of Rick’s joke here).

 

 Are you hungry?  Want to try some of these dishes yourself?  Well, come out to Franco’s Ristorante Italiano at 5pm  this Tuesday, Feb 7th for Rick’s retirement party.  Whether you knew him or not, it is a perfect chance to try some authentic Italian recipes and visit with Rick at Franco’s one last time.

Last time we dined at the bar, Big Ragu got a Moretti Italian Beer with his appetizer, which is his tradition.  When he told Rick he was ordering Lambrusco with his meal, Rick said he

Lasagna at Franco’s

would have to get rubber gloves out to protect himself from serving that crap.  Ragu ordered another Moretti Beer instead.  This Tuesday, Big Ragu promises to toast him with a glass of Lambrusco.

Congratulations on your your retirement, Rick!  It is well deserved.  Thank you for all of your hard work and service over the years. The ole’ Italian place won’t be the same without you.
For more Food Adventures, please “like” us on Facebook here.
Feel free to browse the photos below from our visits to Franco’s Restaurant.

A view from a beer

Lasagna

Bar Seating

Hand breaded mozzarella cheese balls from Franco’s

Chocolate Cake at Franco’s

Manicotti

Ravioli with Marinara

Entrance to Franco’s

Congratulations on your retirement, Rick Busch !

Submarine House Kicks Off 2017 Cheesesteak Challenge

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The Super Duper Cheesesteak from Submarine House

The annual “Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge” has started across the Miami Valley at every Submarine House, proceeds of which this year go to the Pink Ribbon Girls.  January 30th was the first day that Dayton area residents could partake in this food challenge for charity.

The Food Adventure Crew has been a part of the event for more than 3 years and we have seen almost $50,000 raised for Dayton’s Children Hospital during that time.

On Fat Tuesday, February 28th, 7pm, Food Adventures with Dayton Most Metro and Dayton Dining will be hosting a “one night only” qualifying event for charity at the new Centerville Submarine House Bar & Grill location at 503 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., next to Adventure Golf for 16 contestants! Everyone is welcome to come watch and cheer …. but first

The Super Duper Challenge t-shirt

***WHAT IS THE SUPER DUPER CHEESESTEAK CHALLENGE ?????

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

—WHEN: Starting Jan, 30th you may take the challenge at any Submarine House location through April 2nd.

—WHAT: You must eat a 16 inch SUPER DUPER CHEESESTEAK, with “The Works” toppings in less than 16 minutes. Super Duper means this 16 inch sub has triple the meat and triple the cheese of their normal subs.  The Works includes: Cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, homemade oil & vinegar dressing & pepper relish.   Grilled Mushrooms also come on the sub.  Important – NO topping substitutions, you have to eat it as is with all of the ingredients.  This is not a baby challenge.  So bring your loose pants.

Take the Challenge !

—WHY: If you complete the challenge, your sandwich is free and you win a T-shirt. A portion of the proceeds goes to The Pink Ribbon Girls charity.

—COST: About $23 up front, which is refundable if you complete the challenge successfully.  You can take the challenge at any Submarine House, alone or with a group of friends from Jan 30th through April 2nd.

The top 10 fastest times will see the competitors called back in April for the “store championship semi-finals.”

Food Adventures is hosting a special night Fat Tuesday Feb 28th at 7pm

The winner of each store will advance to the FINALS April 22nd, 1pm at the new Huber Heights Bar & Grill Location at 5376 Taylorsville Rd.

 

*** SPECIAL EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT ***

We are looking for a few hungry men and women !

Cooking up Cheesesteaks

Food Adventures is hosting a one-night only, Qualifying Round for charity event related to the Cheesesteak challenge.

*WHERE: The new Centerville Submarine House Bar & Grill,
503 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd (next to Adventure Golf)

*WHEN: Fat Tuesday Feb. 28th, 7pm

*WHAT: 16 contestants (to match the 16 inches of sub) will have a shotgun start and we will see if anyone qualifies with a top 10 store time.

Food Adventure Cheesesteak Qualifier 2016

*WHY: A portion from all food and drink sold that night will go to the Pink Ribbon Girls charity, so come out and root on your favorite friend or family member.

We do have a few contestants signed up already for this event:

 

Chef Hayden is ready

1)-MATT “PORKCHOP” HAYDEN:
This local chef owns Scratch catering and has promised to bring his love for food and appetite to the event and measure his munching skills. Can he successfully eat that 16 inch sub in 16 minutes?  We welcome this newcomer to the charity event!

 

Bryan Suddith, cleansing his palate

2)- BRYAN “BABY BLUES” SUDDITH:
This nationally acclaimed Slam Storyteller and lover of good grub, joins the contest once again this year.  He qualified last year, and this year is looking to beat his time of 14 minutes, 13 seconds.  Can he do it?  And can he beat his time from last year?  Vegas is setting strong odds that he can!

 

3)- JOE “THE MINISTER OF MEAT” AMSTUTZ:
A new contestant, not much is known about this participant, but by his nickname, we expect a promising competitor.  He is currently in training for the event in an undisclosed location.  Can the “minister of meat” handle 16 inches of heaven?  Be there and find out!

 

4)- STEVE “THE BIG RAGU” MILANO:

Big Ragu looks to redeem himself

This Dayton foodie looks to redeem himself after last year’s disappointing failure, where he did not finish the sandwich.  Will the Big Ragu beat the Super Duper Cheesesteak on Fat Tuesday?

 

5)- ONE OF THE CHROME DIVA’s:

Special Participant from the Chrome Divas

One of the women’s charitable motorcycle groups, the Dayton Chrome Divas, will be bringing in a female contestant.  Can she show the fellas who is boss?  We are super excited to have this special guest as part of the Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge event.

 

6)- “THE GARLIC CHAMP” KEVIN SORICE:
The “senior” division champ from last year, impressed the crowd with a time of 9 minutes and

Kevin Sorice “The Garlic Champ”

19 seconds. Can this Italian Stallion show up the young guys this year? The Garlic eating champ of Garlic Fest thinks so !  Be there to see this man vs. bun.

7)- JOHN “HAMBONE” HAMMOND:
John is back and looking to beat the challenge this year. Last year he could not quite finish the sub, but this year he is as determined as ever. Come root for John, this guy never quits! Can Hambone hammer this challenge?  Watch him as he tries to knock out the 16inch Super Duper Cheesesteak and put his reputation where is mouth is !

That leaves spots for 9 more contestants!  If you want to participate, email us at [email protected]

Again, this qualifier will be held at the new Centerville Submarine House at 503 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd.

Chef and Jax are guest Judges from Food Adventures

Guest Judges will be Hungry Jax and Chef House from the Food Adventures blog.  They will have stopwatches ready and waiting.  They will be making sure every morsel of food is swallowed for the official times.  Don’t miss this fun event, we are expecting a good crowd.  Bring your friends, family and co-workers to cheer on your favorite.  There promises to be a lot of hooting, hollaring, and eating !  Don’t forget, Submarine House has a great beer selection at the Centerville location.

Get Cheesey with the Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge going on now !

Remember, this is all for a great cause, so 16 inches of heaven are waiting for you ……….. See you at the Submarine House !

***UPDATE:  A Special Appearance from former champ KRIS MICK.. he will be scouting out the competition and may put on an exhibition to show the crowd what a record breaker looks like…  You may know Kris, who is a yearly fixture in the Finals competition.  This college footballer from

Kris Mick ,former Champ, will be in attendance

Troy, Ohio has a cult following and is also known for his popular Submarine House commercials.

Still hungry?  Tackle more Dayton foodstuffs with Food Adventures on Facebook – LIKE us HERE.

We are not food critics.  We are original Dayton foodies who love to eat! This is our passion, not our job, and we leave no plate unturned!

Check out our photos below, from past Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge events at Dayton’s original Submarine House…

2016 champ of the whole thing – Andrew Oakes

Its you and 16 inches of super duper cheesesteak heaven

Food adventure qualifier

Chef House was a guest judge at the Vandalia Cheesesteak event last year

Dig in

Jax and her time keeper helpers

Cheesesteak- you have to eat this in 16 minutes and it is free

The finals 2016

Im done !

A previous contest

Ragu with Andrew Oakes again 2013 and 2016 champ

The Super Duper Cheesesteak – a Dayton legend

Last Year’s Food Adventure contestants 2016

 

Ale Feast 2017: “Must Drinks” for Feb. 4th

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Feb 4th, 2017: Ale Feast

We are foodies.  We embrace craft beers.  There is an event that combines these two passions…

Jennifer Dean & Amanda Pond  and crew are presenting 2017’s Ale Feast on Feb 4th at the Masonic Temple again this year.  The always filling, always popular event is a chance to sample some local restaurant tastes, while sipping local and national beers.  It is always a showcase spectacle as attendees go from booth to booth partaking in eating and drinking at each stop.

This year there will be 15 restaurant booths and almost 80 beer choices to sample.  Each booth has wine options too !

Sounds like one hell of a Food Adventure….

Line to enter the event

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON ALE FEAST 2017:

—WHEN:  SAT. FEB 4th from 4pm-7pm

—WHERE: THE MASONIC TEMPLE at 525 W Riverview Ave, Dayton

—COST: $40 in advance, $60 at the door – get tickets online HERE

—TICKETS: May be bought at Arrow Wine (Both locations), Belmont Party Supply, Dorothy Lane Market (All locations), Fifth Street Brewpub, Mudlick Taphouse, and Warped Wing.

 

Restaurants will be serving samples at each booth

Which Restaurants will be there?  What beers will be available?

Food Adventures has some insight on what foods will be available and we have some recommendations on what beers are “MUST DRINKS”

 

Here is the lineup of foods booths with MUST EATS and MUST DRINKS:

Table 1)-DOROTHY LANE MARKET:  
MUST EAT: A complete spread of cheeses, including these diverse choices:  French Raclette, Champignon Grand Noir, Barber’s 1833 Vintage cheddar, Laura Chenel Fresh Chèvre, Comte Gruyere, Wisconsin Cheddar cheese curds, Belletoile Triple Cream Brie.  
MUST DRINK: You have to go local here with a Lock 27 Citra Hopped Sunfish, a rare, citrus infused version of their pale ale. Honorable mention to a beer at this booth called Unibroue’s La fin Du Monde,  a rare golden ale brewed the way of the Trappist monks.

 

Table 2)-FIFTH STREET BREWPUB:  

Over 75 beers to try, and wine selections too !

MUST EAT: Pork Sliders with Chimichurri and Jalapeno’s.  Oh Fifth Street Brewpub, we love your food…
MUST DRINK: Rhinegeist’s Andromeda, this Cincinnati brewery touts the beer as having freshly cut grass flavor as well as peach and orange.  This Pale Ale also uses a rare Australian Galaxy Hops.  Sounds like a unique choice to us!

 

We love that this new BBQ place in Lebanon will be at Ale Feast

Table 3)-DOUBLE D’s BBQ:  
MUST EAT: Hickory smoked pulled pork slider and a beef brisket slider.  We love this place out of Lebanon. Top your sliders with a choice of house made sauces including a Sweet BBQ , Spicy BBQ or Carolina spicy mustard sauce.
MUST DRINK: Two stick out here.  Deschutes Black Butte Porter from Oregon, with hints of chocolate and coffee.  Also, Avery Out of Bounds Stout, brewed in Colorado promises a more flavorful stout than you are used to.

 

There will be chocolate

Table 4)-ESTHER PRICE CANDIES:  
MUST EAT: Beer Brittle and Dark Sea Salt Caramel.  Prepare to get lost in iconic, local chocolate bliss.
MUST DRINK: Go local then go Alaskan here.  Hairless Hare Brewery‘s Buckeye Nation, a chocolate peanut butter porter, will be on draft out of Vandalia.   Also try an Alaskan beer called “Hopothermia,” a double IPA.

 

Table 5)-MUDLICK TAPHOUSE:  
MUST EAT: Flat bread topped with caramelized onions, goat cheese & bacon.  
MUST DRINK: Alesmith Wee Heavy Scotch Ale, a sweet and malty choice from San Diego, California.

Dont miss this Feb 4th event

Table 6)-BRIXX ICE CO:  
MUST EAT: Perogies with Wild Mushroom Gravy, a Polish specialty.
MUST DRINK: Three to highlight here – Okicim, a Pilsner from Poland.  Trogenator Double Bock, a six month bourbon barrel bock from Hershey, Pennsylvania.  Finally from Dayton Beer Company, an ale called “Blond Ale with Blood Orange.”

 

Table 7)-COLDWATER CAFE:  

Thirsty Dog Brews will be on hand

MUST EAT:  Chicken & Waffles with local maple syrup and a spicy honey mustard aioli.  Are you kidding? How delicious does that sound?
MUST DRINK: Two local selections-Yellow Spring’s Night Dark Saison Specialty on tap (very rare), and Crooked Handle’s Short Fuze IPA, also on draft out of Springboro.

 

Table 8)-EL MESON:  
MUST EAT: Chicken with Mole – Traditional Mexican chicken with chocolate and served with tortillas.  A unique, delicious recipe from one of Dayton’s best.
MUST DRINK: Breckenridge Agave Wheat from Colorado is probably the perfect pairing, but the 5 Rabbit Vulture spiced beer, a South American amber ale brewed in Chicago is notable.

 

Table 9)-THE PUB at THE GREENE:  
MUST EAT: Smoked Gouda Chicken Pasta.  Wow, that sounds flavorful..  
MUST DRINK: 10 Barrel Brewing Company’s “Joe IPA” out of Oregon or a local choice from Toxic Brewery on draft “Abby XXXX Quad”

 

Cheese, wine, beer

Table 10)-BROCK MASTERSON’S CATERING:  
MUST EATS: Turkey & Noodles with locally raised free range turkey mixed with special giblet gravy and baked with house made noodles; Beef & Noodles with locally sourced beef brisket roasted with fiesta dust, simmered in its own juices and tossed with house made noodles.
MUST DRINK: Thirsty Dog’s Cerasus Dog on Draft, out of Akron. An oak aged, flanders style red brew, fermented with wild yeast and Michigan cherries.

 

Table 11)-THE WANDERING GRIFFIN:

You will love the variety of beer and eats

MUST EAT: Beef on Weck Slider – Thinly sliced slow roasted beef served on a kimmelweck bun with horseradish.  Old school eats from the new kid on the block.    
MUST DRINK: Dark Horse Special Reserve Black, it doesnt get darker than this rare beer from Marshall, Michigan.   Want to go Ohio instead?  Try North High Pale Ale out of Columbus, you guessed it, North High Brewery.

 

Local Breweries will be well represented

Table 12)-THE AMBER ROSE:
MUST EAT: Cinnamon Applewood Smoked Pork Loin.  Amber Rose is one of the most unsung  food spots in the Miami Valley.
MUST DRINK: First Press, a hard cider from Ciderboys Brewery out of Wisconsin. A tart, sparkling hard cider that is hard to find.

 

Table 13)-TWISTED RIVER COFFEE:  
MUST DRINK: Coffee Station, if your butt needs to sober up.

All styles of brews

 

Table 14)-PINK RIBBON GIRLS– CHARITY PARTNER:   
MUST DRINK: Cidergeist Bubbles, a peach and cranberry hard cider made by Cincinnati’s Rhinegeist Brewery.

 

Table 15)-MADISONO’S GELATO:  
MUST EAT: Selection of Gelato from Cincinnati, including Caramel & Sea Salt, Madagascar Vanilla, and Double Dark Chocolate  
MUST DRINK: Dayton’s own Warped Wing Pirogue w/cold brew coffee on draft, or Southern Tier Brewery’s Creme Brulee from Lakewood, New York.

 

Full House

WHEW! What a rundown for a Food Adventure.

Don’t miss out !  Get your tickets .. again, you can find them online HERE or at Arrow Wine (Both locations), Belmont Party Supply, Dorothy Lane Market (All locations), Fifth Street Brewpub, Mudlick Taphouse, and Warped Wing.   Also keep your eye on DaytonDining’s Facebook page for a ticket giveaaway!

For more foodie fun, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE:

Lots of choices

Goose Island will be on hand

Brews on ice

The Top 30 Soups of Dayton, 2017

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Warm up with Dayton’s best soups of 2017

Voltzy making his Cabbage Roll Soup

As the next cold spell moves in during 2017 and you are craving a soup to warm your heart, consider this list.  The Food Adventures crew, Chef House, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu, have compiled our list of Dayton’s Best Soups for 2017.  From the first steaming spoonful, to that little bit of liquid left in the bottom, these are the best bowls of chow that the Miami Valley has to offer.  So, all you serious eaters, get a spoon, get some crackers if need be, and check out our list of MUST EAT soups.

IN ORDER from the best (because no one else does that) are Dayton’s best Food Adventures in a bowl… , here they are…

** DAYTON’S TOP 30 SOUPS for 2017 **

 

1) CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP from FRESCO:

Chicken Tortilla Soup from Fresco

A top soup from one of Dayton’s top Chefs and caterers, Jenn DiSanto.  She starts with homemade chicken broth from scratch.  The soup is stocked with fall off the bone chicken pieces, vegetables, and tortilla strips. End it all with a dollop of sour cream on top.  This is one of those moments where you lose yourself in a heavenly bliss. This is the best chicken tortilla soup we have ever eaten.  This soup is Chef House’s favorite !

 

The beginning of Rue Dumaine’s incredible gumbo

2) THE GUMBO at RUE DUMAINE:  
This one HAS to be on the list..  The owner/Chef Anne Kearney studied under Food Network superstar, Emeril Lagasse.  Needless to say, when it comes to New Orleans’ flavors, she knows what she is doing.  This award winning chef has a menu unparalleled n Dayton.  We have found the perfect start to a meal at Rue Dumaine.  This pick is an obvious one.

 

Jay’s Clam Chowder, A Dayton icon

3) THE CLAM CHOWDER at JAY’S SEAFOOD:  
When a soup is a Dayton icon and a Dayton staple for decades, it has to make the list.  Whether you are 8 years old, or 80, people love this soup and have fond memories associated with it.  The creamy broth, the chunks of fresh clams, and the perfect dash of pepper make this soup.  Crackers or not, you are in for a treat when you sit down for a cup or bowl of this deliciousness… so go for the bowl.  As you take a spoonful, the nostalgic atmosphere of Jay’s restaurant helps make it that moment in time where the world is in perfect balance.

 

Sizzling Rice Soup from China Cottage

4) THE SIZZLING RICE SOUP FROM CHINA COTTAGE:  
For decades they have been serving this white meat chicken, fresh vegetables and steaming rice kernels in an unforgettable broth.  This is on the appetizer menu as a soup for two.   Sure you can get this soup as an appetizer for two, but who wants to share something this good?  Get the soup for your meal, like we do !  The flavor is a perfect balance of mushrooms, carrots, other vegetables and rice in a white meat chicken and broth mixture.  Another great creation from Chef Tiger Wang.

 

Little Saigon’s Sate Shrimp and Pork Soup


5) SATE SHRIMP AND PORK SOUP with RICE NOODLES from LITTLE SAIGON:  
This Vietnamese style “Pho” soup is a spicy bowl of broth, rice noodles, shrimp, pork and vegetables.  Served with a side plate of cilantro, lime and bean sprouts, it packs some heat.  Not hot enough?  Doctor it up with the table side chili paste or a homemade in-house sriracha sauce.  This is a meal sized soup, with an appetizer price tag.

 

6) DUBLIN PUB’S “WORLD FAMOUS POTATO SOUP”:

Dublin Pubs World Famous Potato soup draws them in

It must be world famous, because it is downright incredible.  It is rich, filling and sinful.  We suggest getting it in the Sourdough bowl and add cheese and bacon on it.  We also recommend taking a nap after you eat it.  This soup has a cult following in  Dayton, and is Hungry Jax’s top pick!

 

7)  THE CABBAGE ROLL SOUP from VOLTZY’s ROOT BEER STAND:
The best soup in a root beer stand in the United States.  Voltzy homemakes this stuff with cabbage, tomatoes, rice and his signature burger meat. In his words, it is so delicious,  you will sing “Touch me in the Morning.”  Cabbage rolls not your style? Then try his almost equally delicious “Cheeseburger Soup” or “Cream of Vandalia Onion Soup.”  Yes, Vandalia like the city… Voltzy is nuts, it is undeniable.

 

Get into Amber Rose and try the Turtle Soup

8) THE TURTLE SOUP at THE AMBER ROSE:
This soup is exotic, thick and hearty.  It is a  old recipe, passed down by Elinore, the previous owner of the restaurant.  We absolutely love Amber Rose’s take on this old school favorite.  It is beyond good.  This is one of those things that you eat and immediately want more.  Visit Joe Castellano and his chefs and try it for yourself as an appetizer to one of their Eastern European meals.  Extra points for uniqueness on this one.

 

Up close with the Clam Chowder at Sweeney’s Seafood

9) CLAM CHOWDER at SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD: 
Creamy and thick with chunks of clams and potatoes, this is a filling bowl of soup.   Paprika and other spices, finish the flavor, making this soup one of our favorites.  We already are in love with many of Sweeney’s appetizers that owner Lisa Long and her chefs knock out of the park.  Add another star to the list.  Hungry Jax can’t get enough of this one.

 

10) SEAFOOD CHOWDER from DOROTHY LANE MARKET:  Maybe because it

Seafood Chowder from Dorothy Lane Market

simmers all day, it enhances the flavor.  Whatever the reason, we are entranced with this self serve option to go at Dorothy Lane Market for this incredible soup.  Rich and creamy and two terms that simply cannot be stressed enough.  Chunks of fish and more fill the soup with corn and other vegetables. This is a nice, thick soup. We can’t inhale it fast enough on hungry rainy days.  If there ever was a bowl you wanted to lick clean, this would be the one….

 

The Chicken Gumbo from DiSalvo’s Deli

11) CHICKEN GUMBO from DISALVO’S DELI:
Another homemade soup from scratch.  Chef Ronnie DiSalvo himself makes the soup with perfectly carved, generous chicken pieces, in a delicately light broth.  The bowl is filled with a treasure trove of vegetables and tremendous flavor.   This deli takes pride in its food, and this is another example of their incredible creations.  Their motto is “made with love from the heart.” And we like to add, and straight to your mouth!

 

12) THE SHRIMP and PORK SOUP at LINH’s BISTRO:  

The Shrimp and Pork Soup from Linh’s Bistro

A big fan following for this soup.  It is an enormous bowl with filled one of the classic Vietnamese “Phos” (soups) offered at Linh’s Bistro.  This meal sized magical creation contains broth, shaved pork and pieces of shrimp.   Sure you can get it with clear rice noodles, but we prefer the egg noodle option (#34 on the menu). Vegetables and scallions also line the bowl, but that’s not all.  The soup is served with a side plate of jalapenos, bean sprouts cilantro and lime.  Separate some cilantro leaves from the stems and drop them into the bowl.  This soup defines the words Food Adventure.

 

Doubleday’s French Onion Soup

13) THE FRENCH ONION SOUP at DOUBLEDAY’S GRILL & TAVERN:
Lets be honest.  Any one of Doubleday’s soups could make this list.  In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one is a favorite.  Dayton  regulars have stuffed the restaurant for decades, and many have felt the hot, gooey dripping flavor of the french onion soup.  It is easy to get lost in Doubleday’s large menu, but dont overlook this “must eat.”  The steaming pot of soup is perfect for a snowy day.  Try their Chicken Pot Pie Soup and Potato Soup as well.

 

14) THE NEW ORLEANS STYLE GUMBO at JIMMIES LADDER 11: 

The New Orleans Gumbo from Jimmie’s Ladder 11

Hearty, rich and just the right spiciness, this soup is one of those “OMG” moments when you take a bite.  Owner Jimmie Brandell is no stranger to soups, having managed one of the iconic “Upper Krust” locations for years.  The soup is perfect.  They really hit the mark on this one.  Order a bowl and wake up your taste buds.  Goes perfect with their craft beer selections and sandwiches!

 

Bullwinkle’s Clam Chowder is made in house

15) THE CLAM CHOWDER AT BULLWINKLE’S: 
Clam Chowder at a rib place?  The answer is yes, young Jedi.  This soup is homemade and downright addicting.  Generous chunks of clams in a mix of potatoes and cream sauce make this one of our “Must Eats.”  Not many people know about this soup, but now you do.  We are not responsible for any addictions.  Make sure you start your meal here with this savory favorite.  Their menu is filled with amazing items like this one.

 

Archer’s Chili

16) THE CHILI AT ARCHER’S TAVERN:
Every year, Archer’s holds a chili cookoff.  The winning chili goes on the menu for a year.  All proceeds from the contest go to the Centerville High School’s Culinary Arts Program!  The result is an amazing chili and a charitable donation!  The current chili is a meaty concoction with a little bit of heat. It is topped with cheese and Fritos.  Probably the spiciest of the delicious soups and one of our favorites.

 

17) THE MUSHROOM BISQUE at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT:

Mushroom Bisque at Christopher’s

Vegetarians  rejoice!  This Dayton soup is for you.  A fresh, home made delicious recipe means a warm feeling in every spoonful.  The taste of the fresh mushrooms is incredible  Christopher’s thrives on making quality, homemade soups, and this choice is the star.  Check it out and pair it with one of their delicious sandwiches.  The restaurant atmosphere is homey, and lends to the comfort factor of feeling at home with this warming soup for the soul.

 

Wild Mushroom Soup from Hawthorne Grill

18) THE WILD MUSHROOM SOUP FROM HAWTHORNE GRILL:
It is pure comfort in a bowl.  The soup is creamy, bold and flavorful.  Hawthorne Grill puts out some great dishes, and this is one you need to get your hands on.  This weather is the perfect time to try this unique, homemade item.  Chef Candice Rinke has established herself in the upper tier of Dayton’s chefs.  This soup is an extension of her hard work.

 

 

Pickle Soup from Blind Bob’s

19) THE PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S:
Don’t be fooled by the sound of it, don’t judge a book by its cover.  This is one of the best soups in Dayton.  The flavor isn’t sharp, it is surprisingly mild and rich.  If you like cream of broccoli soup, this is an even better spin on it.  We congratulate Blind Bob’s for not only the uniqueness, but for the amazing taste.  This is a great warm up right before you try one of their burger selections!  Also, Blind Bob’s many craft beers go great with this soup!

 

Vegetarian Chili and Tequila Chili from Lucky’s Taproom

20) TEQUILA CHILI at LUCKY’S TAPROOM:  
Unique blast of flavor from the kitchen at Lucky’s.  Owner Andrew Trick has developed an underground following for his terrific food. This chili is a highlight on the menu and one of the most loved items.  Lucky’s offers a regular or vegetarian option.  Recommendation: There is no better pairing on this list than the Tequila Chili and one of Lucky’s numerous craft beers.  So go to Lucky’s, thumb through the beer booklet, pick one out, and thank us later.

 

21) THE GUINNESS ONION SOUP AT NICK’S RESTAURANT:  

French Onion Soup at Nick’s Restaurant

Gooey, warm, and wonderful soup that is the pride of Xenia.  The soup is always made from scratch buy their “soup nazi.”  This soup is served in a unique bowl, with a mound of cheese and few gigantic croutons.  But what hit us most is the rich flavor.   Hot broth dripping down your chin, as you swallow some of the cheesey strings.  Take a spoonful and you will immediately see why this soup made the cut.

 

Coconut Soup from Siam Pad Thai

22) THE COCONUT SOUP at SIAM PAD THAI: 
Another exotic choice on this list.  Cherry tomatoes, lime juice and mushrooms highlight the ingredients in this soup.  The tangy, light flavor make this soup the most refreshing on our list.  Owner, Fon Chrisman is a culinary genius in Thai food.  If you have not been to Siam Pad Thai, we suggest you pair this soup with one of their Thai dishes, or specialty sushi rolls. We promise you will be craving this soup in no time.

 

Hot n Sour Soup from Young Chow

23)  THE HOT AND SOUR SOUP at YOUNG CHOW:  
We scald ourselves every time, because we cant wait to get into this soup’s shredded goodness.  A perfect balance of tofu, pepper and pork, this hot and sour soup is fantastic.  This soup made the list because it is just that good.  And guess what else, the price is nice.   We looked at your fortune cookie, it says you need to go to Young Chow.

 

24) TANTANMEN RAMEN at RAMEN RICKSHAW: Also known as “Peddler Noodles,” this soup is the epitome of homemade.  Freshly made, daily noodles seeped in a pork broth that has simmered for 12

Tantanmen Ramen from Ramen Rickshaw

hours. Flavorful secret spices and green onions finish off the soup.  Served in a small bowl, we can use a fork, spoon or even drink this delicious soup, just to get it in our bellies.

 

25) TOM YUM SOUP at TIK’s THAI GRILL:  A spicy broth filed with mushrooms and green scallions.  They also call this “Lemongrass Soup.”  It also includes a secret combo of Thai herbs, lemongrass, tomato, and lime juice.  The lime juice packs a punch right back to the lime juice that started the whole thing.

 

Tom Yum Soup from Tik’s Thai Grill

26) TOM YUM GOONG SOUP from HOUSE OF THAI:
Shrimp and mushroom in a hot and sour broth is the amazing menu item featured at this hidden secret in Beavercreek known for their Pad Thai.   Not many people are familiar with this delicious Thai restaurant, but the soup deserves a spot on this list.  It is obviously an old family recipe, and it is as fun to eat as it is to say the name.  This is chin dripping, grab your napkin style good eats.  If you are going to do it up, do it up right at the House of Thai.

 

Curry Udon Noodle Soup from Ariake

27) CURRY UDON NOODLE SOUP from ARIAKE SUSHI BAR :  A thick, soup with curry flavors and a nutty aroma.  Slices of pork, egg slices and wheat noodles fill the bowl.  It is a challenge to eat this without getting your chin or shirt dripped on, but the noodles are fantastic.

 

The last spoonfuls of Kabuki’s Spicy Vegetable Soup

28) THE SPICY VEGETABLE SOUP from KABUKI:  This soup is complimentary with big dinner orders.  It is a fantastic mix of spicy pepper broth, bean sprouts and onions.  This can clear your sinuses and make your cold feel better all at the same time.  It is the perfect tune up for a sushi feast.  Enjoy the color and aroma of the soup, it tastes as good as it looks.  We have come to learn that at Kabuki, everything is great.

 

Pozole from Chiapas Mexican Grill

29) THE POZOLE from CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL:  The owner of Chiapas tells us this is his grandmother’s recipe for a chicken and hominy soup.  The broth is soothing yet spicy.  The chicken is tender and shreds of it soak between hominy corn.  Radishes float on top of this beautiful looking soup.  One of the most unique soups on this list, it is authentic Mexican fare.

 

Pulpo and Camarones Cocktail en Salsa (seafood gazpacho) from Taqueria Mixteca

30) PULPO CAMARONES COCKTAIL en SALSA (Seafood Gespacho) from TAQUERIA MIXTECA
Served cold, this tomato based soup is stocked full of seafood.  From huge shrimp, to baby octopus and calamari, it is not for the squeamish.  Hardcore seafood lovers, however, will eat it up.  It is served in a gigantic goblet and is easily enough for two or more.  The vegetables and slices of avocado make the soup.

 

We have two honorable mentions:

a) SIZZLING RICE SOUP from NORTH CHINA and

b) SHRIMP and PORK SATE from PHO MI

And one final thing..

 

Best Chain Restaurant Soup?  Chicken Gnocchi from Olive Garden

Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Olive Garden

That’s it, that’s our list !  What did we miss?  Do you agree or disagree with our choices ??  Please comment below and tell us your thoughts.

Meanwhile, check out our incredible photo gallery of Dayton’s best soups, below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !

Sizzling Rice Soup from North China

Chicken Pot Pie Soup from Doubledays

 

The Tom Young Goong Soup from House of Thai

Pozole from Chiapas Mexican Grill

Chicken Tortilla Soup from Fresco

Linh’s Bistro has a great Shrimp and Pork Soup

Pho Mi has a beautiful Shrimp and Pork Sate Soup

Sweeney’s Clam Chowder

The Best Tamale’s in Town: Chiapas Mexican Grill

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Chiapas Mexican Grill

With the wacky weather lately, the saying, “Chilly today, Hot Tamale” applies here.  Of all of the Mexican eateries in town, only a handful can claim to be “authentic” to the Mexican people’s tastes.  These menus are not Americanized, but are true to the way people dine in Mexico City or Chiapas, Mexico.  Simple, fresh ingredients and simple, homemade recipes.  Authentic is the case of Chiapas Mexican Grill in Centerville on State Route 48. The small diner is a perfect atmosphere for an authentic, Mexican Food Adventure.

As you know, what makes our food blog different, is that we visit a restaurant many times before we write a thorough article.  If a place shows promise, we revisit, and go on different hours, and different days and try almost every dish on the menu.  That way, one can

Chorizo Soft Taco – note the corn tortilla and lime

REALLY get the feel of the place.  Not just a one or two plates and a forkful of a friend’s dish, we are talking full Food Adventure experiences.  That is our philosophy to share with you reliable feedback on the very best spots in the Miami Valley.  After at least a half dozen visits to Chiapas Mexican Grill, we are here to give you the full scoop and some incredible photos.

From Horchata cinnamon like milk drinks with our friend Elsa, to Chimichangas and Enchiladas during Sunday football, we ate it all and are ready to share the goods.

 

Chicken Chimichangas

HERE’S THE SKINNY on CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL:

—Located in the heart of Centerville at 298 N Main St.  The quaint dining room seats about 50 people.

—Locally owned operation by a family from Chiapas, Mexico.  One of the owners used to work at Las Piramides restaurant in Centerville.  He finally convinced family members to get in on his plan to own their own authentic restaurant.

—Menu features family recipes and dishes from their town of Chiapas, which is at the most southeastern part of Mexico, near Guatemala.

—They are open 7 days a week with special prices on Margaritas on Mondays and Fridays.  All tacos

The Best Tamales we have ever eaten

are just $1.99 on Mondays.

 

This place is definitely one for your Food Adventure hit list. Each meal starts out right, with warm tortilla chips and some excellent salsa, packed with fresh cilantro.  Now that your tastebuds are warmed up… We present to you the best of the best of their menu… our patented feature ………… MUST EATS !

 

Half of the dining area

MUST EATS at CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL:

—TAMALE’S:
The best tamales we have ever had, hands down, Chico.  We know their secret.  They use banana leaves instead of corn leaves.  The bbq sauce, the corn mush and the pulled pork combine for a taste we have never experienced before. Our mouths are watering for more.

 

—IN HOUSE HOT SAUCES: IMPORTANT! Take advantage of the 2 homemade in house hot sauces, one red one green.  They are great to add to your salsa to thicken things up, or squirt across your dinner of choice.  Also dive into the bottled sauces on the table called El YucatecoXXX and Cholula

A spicy shrimp dish called Camarones ala Diabla

—TACO’S – SOFT and CRUNCHY:
The soft tacos are incredibly authentic, and are made with soft CORN tortillas which is, of course, the difference.  No cheese on the soft ones, just meat, onions and cilantro.  All tacos are served with lime quarters.  Grab these quarters, and squeeze every bit of lime juice onto your taco meat.  It makes the whole thing.  All the taco meats are good, but our top 4 soft taco meat choices you “must eat” are : a) Chorizo, b) Shepard Style (rotisserie pulled pork), c) Chicken and d) Carnitas (steak).  Don’t forget to add some salsa or house hot sauce.

Behold the Chicken Fajitas, still steaming and sizzling

The crunchy ground beef taco is delicious and loaded with lettuce and shredded, white, Mexican cheese.  Don’t forget to order one of those.

Get your butt in here on Mondays, when all tacos are $1.99, for a feast you will not soon forget.

 

—CAMARONES ALA DIABLA (Spicy shrimp): Large, perfectly pan seared shrimp, in a plate with hot sauce, rice and beans.  We got lost for a moment in our plate.  What woke us up was the  powerful flavor and HEAT! This is definitely a MUST EAT.  Good dish, make sure a soft drink, water or beer is near, Gringo.  Wow, was this dish something to write home about.

Under these mounds are two of the best chile rellenos in town

 

—CHICKEN FAJITAS: Served sizzling from the kitchen, the result is a nicely seared collection of chicken, green peppers, onions and tomatoes.  Served with lettuce and tortillas on the side, along with sour cream and guacamole, you have the building blocks for an epic fajita creation.

 

—CHILE RELLENOS CHIAPANECOS:
Oh man, this dish is the best of both worlds.  It is two, large stuffed peppers on a plate.  One is filled

The huge Torta Milanese. a lightly breaded Chicken Sandwich

with cheese, and the other is filled with ground beef and potatoes.  The results are one of the best chile rellenos plates we have ever eaten.  It has plenty of cheese sauce, salsa and rice so you can use the extra tortilla chips to make your own nacho scooping end to this dinner.

 

—TORTA DE MILANESE (chicken):
A huge sandwich, with a lightly deep fried chicken breast inside.  This is a big, delicious sesame seed roll, with all the fixins.  Each half could be a lunch sandwich on its own.  Eating this will have you yelling “Arrriba.”

 

—FLAN:

Flan, an incredible dessert

A delicate little dessert.  Like carmalized vanilla pudding with whip cream and cherry, the caramel drizzle sauce is naughty too.  We are not going to lie, we each could have eaten four of these, they were that good.

 

Honorable Mention:  

—POZOLE:
The owner’s favorite.  It is a spicy soup filled with chicken and hominy.  The warm, red broth will soothe your soul. The recipe is a family tradition from Mexico and like almost all of the menu items, a recipe from their Grandmother.

 

Cheese Quesadilla with fries (kids plate)

—THE GOLD MARGARITA: 
A family favorite.  Try it frozen, walk out smiling.  No shortness of tequila here.

 

**Note: We learned something on our trip to Chiapas.  Every table has a ketchup bottle from a company called “Tip Top Ketchup.”  We read the label and realized it was a local condiment company from Tipp City.  It went perfect with the fries on the Torta plates and kids cheese quesadilla plate.  We have found ourselves a new ketchup alternative.

The deep, rich color of the salsa, packed with cilantro

That does it for our rundown of what you gotta try at this new hot spot.

 

The small sign in the window says Taqueria, which means a place where tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes are made and sold.  That is an understatement.  This place is a treasure.  The building has housed eateries from Poor Richards and the Hungry Elk to Wrapsody, Roc-a-Fellas, and House of Kabab.  We look to see this one stay a while. Chiapas Mexican Grill, you’ve come a long way, baby!

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Feel free to browse more photos below from our multiple visits to CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL.

Ohhh those warm chips.. endless baskets

Carne Asada (steak)

Tip Top and fries

Grab a tortilla and turn the spicy shrimp into a shrimp burrito

Tostada – old school right there….

Spanish rice

In House Hot Sauce – the key to a good meal

The other half of the dining room

Chorizo, chicken and Pork tacos

Tamales !!

Salsa – a dip and a dance

Rollin up that fajita like a boss

Tacos and Tacos and Tacos (pork and steak)

Gettin corny with a steak taco

Since 1924 out of Tipp City

Crunchy Taco – ground beef

Pork Soft Taco

Chicken Soft Taco

Up close – Shepards Taco – (Pork)

Another Food Adventure begins

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Full Scoop on the 2017 Dayton Area Fish Frys

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Alter HS Fish Fry is a huge event

Dayton Most Metro has the full list of the areas fish fry’s for 2017 listed RIGHT HERE.  Food Adventures has been visiting all of these fish frys each year, for years and we have the scoop on each one.

How do we know?  Because we actually go to each one and support the causes!  Most fish frys serve Alaskan Pollok or Cod.  A couple serve Haddock, and catfish !

NO ONE else breaks down 35 Dayton area fish frys like The Food Adventures Crew … join us…

So, cast your nets, throw your bait i, n the water and see what you can catch this fish fry season !!

We knock .em down below and list them from the MOST EXTRAVAGANT ones, to the TOP FISH FRYS, and BEST RESTAURANT FISH FRYS.  We will list

A serving from Incarnation’s Fish Fry

some fish frys we are putting on our hit list to visit for the first time this year.  Also we have scoop on a “Do it yourself Fish Fry” at home !  Start reading and be the smartest fish in your school.

 

First, Food Adventures starts with the big shows, the huge events, the largest production and biggest number of activities and selections.

Here’s the list of the MOST EXTRAVAGANT fish frys .. in order

St Peter’s in Huber Heights – huge selection of food & casino games

THE 4 MOST EXTRAVAGANT FISH FRYS:

—1.  ALTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FISH FRY:  FRI. FEB 24 at 7pm
940 E David Rd, Kettering
The Dayton area’s largest fish fry, it is a sight to behold.  Located at Alter High School gym and cafeteria, it is a huge display of casino games and a gigantic amount of silent auction prizes.  $15 gets you all you want fish, sides and pop.  Beer and wine, is extra.  Promises to draw a big crowd. If you want the big, Grandaddy of them all event .. this is it … Say hi to the Big Ragu who will be dealing blackjack.

 

—2. ST PETER’S FISH FRY: SAT. FEB 25 at 5:30pm

Carroll HS like most fish fry’s serve draft beer


6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
Since it is on a Saturday, they offer fish, sausages, wings and much more.  There is enough food to line the length of a basketball court.  The entire gym is decked out from horse races to blackjack.  The price is about $15 and includes a couple drink tickets.  The line is a big one so get there EARLY.  They usually surprise with one craft beer at the coolers.  Big crowd, good times.

 

—3. INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 10 at 7pm
55 Williamsburg Ln, Centerville
Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish frys.  Also a BIG casino after party, with lots of folks.

Like St Mary’s some serve Sausages on Saturdays or Fridays before lent

Big Ragu deals blackjack here from time to time, so please come, eat, drink and be merry.  This event gets extra points for decor and silent auction.  Typically the cost is about $18 and includes all you can eat fish, sides and soda pop.  Craft beer for sale too, the biggest selection of the fish frys.

 

—4. CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL’S ST PAT’S FEST FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 10 at 6pm
4524 Linden Ave.  Dayton
Everyone is Irish for this fish fry celebration.  $18 is admission gets you fish, sides and some draft beers. Held in the cafeteria and gymnasium, they have a baked fish option and lots of desserts.  A friendly staff, with tons of silent auction items, raffle prizes and of course some games of chance.  Will you hit the luck of the Irish at this party?(March 11th is a free family event).

Desserts are often a part of admission like this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake from Our Lady of the Rosary

 

Now Food Adventures turns to the best fish frys.  The ones who give you best bang for your buck and maybe not the long lines of other fish frys.  Must be 21 to attend, except for the fish frys that are family events.

 

THE BEST 15 CHARITY FISH FRYS:

—1. ST MARY’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 3 at 6pm
310 Allen St, Dayton
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church.  There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games.  This is one of the best bangs for your buck.  The cost is $15 and you get fish dinner with all the trimmings.  You can buy beers on draft for about 50 cents.  And a dessert table for extra $1 per item will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.  Short lines, nice volunteers and a comfortable atmosphere.

Games of chance like this dice game at Holy Trinity are common

—2. OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY FISH FRY: FRI. Feb 10 at 6pm
22 Notre Dame Ave.  Dayton
This is our old #1 fish fry.  It is still the best, but the secret is out and the lines are long.  Take advantage of their multiple dates and get there early.  $17 gets you endless food and beer, they don’t nickel and dime you here.  This is a fun, laid back party. All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot and regular), French fries, salad, cole slaw, cabbage and noodles, chocolate cake, apple crisp, popcorn, beer and soft drinks, and Chef Joseph, you get us with that peanut butter sheet cake every year.  Talk about religious experience… but the cat is out of the bag on this secret, so get there early or the line will be around the cafeteria, but the fish here is different than any other.

Dayton Rugby Clubs fish fry is delicious – Chef David Glynn makes sure of it

—3. HOLY TRINITY FISH FRY: SAT. MAR 4 at 6:30pm
272 Bainbridge St, Dayton
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners.  They treat you like family.  At a cost of about $15 you get 3 beer tickets and food.  The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.  This is a real fun event that captures the essence of a fish fry.

 

—4. DAYTON RUGBY CLUB: FRI. MAR 31 at 7pm.
 5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
 This ranking is because the fish is so good.  Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.  Big lines, but the fish is worth it.  It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish breading.  Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do.  A fun boisterous crowd.  Lots of food, laughs and fun.

Lots of pop – like this table at Holy Angels Fish Fry

 

—5. HOLY ANGELS FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 13 at6pm
1322 Brown Street, Dayton
 Near the campus of U.D., this is one of the friendliest crews you can hang out with.  A nice hot batch of fish hits the pan every few minutes.  The line is not bad and the cafeteria area holds the eats and raffle prizes.  Check out the goods and the beer is CHEAP.  $15 bucks for a delicious fish fry cooked by the “Corpus Christi Fryers.”

 

—6. ST HELENS FISH FRY: SAT. JAN 28th at 6:30pm
605 Granville Pl, Dayton
Riverside’s best fish fry.   $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner.  They are also

St Helens and other fish frys are on Saturdays and offer chicken too

having sausages and chicken !  This is a comfortable crowd, not too busy, and not too empty.  It is just right.  Lots of chances for casino games as well.

 

—7. ST PAULS CATHOLIC CHURCH FISH FRY: NOT UNTIL DEC. 2017
 1000 Wenger Rd, Englewood
(They already held their fish fry in December, catch them later this year, it is worthwhile).

 

The Fish from St Paul’s fish fry in Englewood

—8. OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY: SAT. MAR 4 at 6pm
249 Squirrel Rd, Dayton
Just $15 gets you into this fantastic party and fish fry.  The lines are not long and the food is good.  Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included!  The Corpus Christi Fryers will be serving up some lovin spoonfuls.

 

—9. ST ANTHONY’s FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 24 at 6pm
830 Bowen St., Dayton
Great atmosphere, great fish.  Plenty of blackjack tables for afterwards fun.  Cost is $15 and includes fish dinner, sides and a couple beer tickets. The lines can get long, so get there early for this one.  Good Food, fun

The Corpus Christi Fryers are a great volunteer group

crowd, nice big pieces of Alaskan pollok.

 

—10. ST ALBERT THE GREAT FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 20, 6pm
3033 Far Hills Ave, Dayton
$20 at the door gets you a full, endless fish dinner.  In the past the Hecht family has run this fish fry.  Nice, big pieces of fish, breaded and cooked perfectly.  You should get a couple of beer tickets with admission as well.  this fish fry also has

St Anthony Fish Fry Volunteers

a lot of raffle prizes to win.

 

—11. ST CHARLES FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 17, 4:30pm
4500 Ackerman Blvd. Kettering 
Kid friendly until 6pm.  This fish fry gives you a chance to bring the whole family from 4:30pm -6pm.  After that it goes to over 21.  Great fish, short lines and a lot of fun.  We suggest getting there about 5-530pm to get a good seat. Tickets are about $16 and include a couple of beer tickets, as well as fish, slaw and fries.

Lots of fish frys serve bread and tartar so you can make a sandwich – like this one from St Albert

 

—12. CHAMINADE JULIENNE’S FISH FRY: SAT. MAR. 18th at 6pm.
505 South Ludlow Street, Dayton 
Cost is $20 at the door includes all the beer and food you want.  We love this all inclusive approach and the fish is good so this one is the best up and coming fish fry.  Held in the school they get a great crowd, get there early as lines form !

 

—13. ST LUKES FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 3rd and FRI. MAR 17th at 5:15-6:45pm
1440 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
This one is run by the school and is a delicious dinner, not all you can eat.  You are offered baked and fried fish, slaw and fries.  They have one of the biggest dessert selections we had run into.  Plenty of soda available.  This is a FAMILY fish fry, so no beer or alcohol is served.  Cost is about $10 for adults, $5 children 4-12, 3 and under free.  

Fish from St Charles Fish Fry

—14. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 20th, 6pm
4293 Powell Road, Huber Heights
The menu includes beverages, both fried and baked fish, sausage, chicken nuggets, beans, corn, macaroni and cheese, and all the fixings. The price is $14 for adults.

 

—15. ST. HENRY’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 3 at 7pm
6696 Springboro Pike, Dayton
They have a live auction and Texas hold em too !  Price is about 16 bucks for the all you can eat typical fish dinner with fries and slaw.  Have fun and gamble.  The atmosphere is very relaxed and jovial at this fun fish fry.

Desserts from Chaminade Fish Fry

 

—16. ST. FRANCIS of ASSISI‘s FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 3, 6pm
6245 Wilmington Pike, Bellbrook
If you get there early, you will be having round 2 of food before most people have even gotten into line.  This is a big fish fry held in the cafeteria and the seating gets full.  The fish is filling and they offer some other sides besides just slaw and fries.

 

Many events have baked fish option like this one from St Luke’s Church

Chef House, the Big Ragu and Hungry Jax are all about the restaurant scene too.  Take it from us, here are the fish frys you want to experience.  Some are year round, some are limited times.  All are worth it !

Here they are…

THE TOP 8 DAYTON AREA RESTAURANT FISH FRYS:

—1. HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:
3509 Linden Ave, Dayton
$8.75 – endless fish fries and cole slaw offered 52 weeks a year on Fridays. What a deal!  The fish is delicious, light, huge pieces cooked with a perfect and crunch.  Excellent food, old school atmosphere, nuff said.

St Henry’s Fish Fry

 

—2. YANKEE TRACE GOLF CLUB:
10000 Yankee St, Centerville
Endless fish, cole slaw and fries for $15 per person.  This goes every Friday through April 14th.  Delicious, filling, and ooohh is that fish good and crunchy!

 

—3. TIPP O’ THE TOWN:
1150 W. Main St, Tipp City
All you can eat on Fridays and Wednesdays every week all year, all day long.  For $9.79 it comes with fries and slaw.  A great place, that gets overlooked up north.

St Francis fish fry in Bellbrook is a busy one

—4. K.J.’S RESTAURANT:
35 W Center St, Germantown
This Germantown restaurant features all you can eat farm raised catfish, 2 sides, for $8.99.  What a price!  The catfish is nice and flaky and not “fishy.”  We think you’re gonna enjoy this one!

 

—5. GAMEDAY GRILL and PATIO:
7576 OH-48, Waynesville, OH
Popular spot at the edge of Waynesville/Centerville.  Their fish fry runs every Friday during lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter).  It is not all you can eat.  The price is $12.25 for Alaskan Pollock includes 2 big pieces, fries and slaw and extra filets are +$3 each. These guys know how to cook good food.  Try it for some of the best around.

Hasty Tasty Fish Fridays are year round and the best deal

 

—6. SLYDER’S FISH FRY:
836 Watervliet Ave., Dayton
Every Friday, is the deal. Three pieces of walleye (not all you can eat) for $7.75.  Served with fries and slaw.  This is the only time you will not get a burger here.

 

—7. WHOLE FOODS FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
1050 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Centerville 
Fish dinner by the pound.  Beer Battered Cod, every Friday in the hot plate area sold with french fries at $8.99 a pound.

Yankee Trace has an excellent fish fry for $15

—8. CRACKER BARREL FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville,  and 7171 Miller Ln, Dayton
Fried Cod on Friday for $9.99.  Add the best sides in show business like the dumplings or okra and you’ve got a cure hitting your hunger.  They start serving at 11am and you can choose from Cod or Catfish.  We’re HOOKED ~

 

SIX FISH FRYS ON OUR HIT LIST IN 2017 (They should be on yours too !):

—1. BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL FISH FRY: SAT JAN 21, 6pm

Gameday Grill in Waynesville has a Fish dinner on Fridays

6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
$12 in advance gets you fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw and more!! Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop and more) also included.  Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!  Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.

 

—2. EINTRACHT SINGING SOCIETY FISH FRY: APR 7 at 6pm and MAY 5 at 6pm
2707 Old Troy Pike, Dayton
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, and Cole Slaw.  Soda & draft beer included in the price so, for $14 a person, it is all you can eat night !

 

Alter’s silent auction area

—3. HUBER HEIGHTS ROTARY FISH FRY: SAT. FEB 11 at 6pm
5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
$15 tickets include food and drink. There will be raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and Monte Carlo games. All funds raised benefit “Needy Family Christmas Program.”

 

—4. PARTNERS FOR COMMUNITY LIVING FISH and CHIP FRY: FRI. MAR 3 at 6pm
5367 Fishburg Rd, Huber Heights
Highly acclaimed fish fry.  Tickets are $20 at the door, and the buzz is nothing but good about this event.  We can’t wait to sink our teeth into their fish!

The dessert table at Carrolls Fish fry

—5. ST. BRIDGID FISH FRY:FRI. MAR 24 at 6pm 
312 Fairground Road, Xenia
Sounds like besides a great fish fry, they will have lots of casino games like Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo.  Tickets are $15 for this one.

 

—6. ST CHRISTOPHERS FISH FRY: SAT. JAN 28 at 6pm
435 East National Road, Vandalia
$15 cost to enter and it is being run by the Corpus Christi Fryers, so you know it is gonna be great.

 

One last thing to consider….an option of having your very own fish fry….

Foremost Seafood can help you with your own fish fry (fresh tilapia here)

*** DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY OPTION ***:

— FOREMOST SEAFOOD‘S “DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY”:  Here is an option you wont see anywhere else.  How about hosting your own fish fry party?  Foremost Seafood, off of Woodman Drive, sells everything you need to make sure you have the perfect party.  And you can pick which type of fish you want.  From Catfish, Walleye, Haddock, Perch, pollack, to tilapia and much more.  Call (937) 298-1986, ask for Tom to talk about your fish fry.t’s it 

 

WHEWWWWWW !  That’s it !  Hook, line and sinker….

Always the most thorough scoop on Dayton eats, Food Adventures can be found on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Please “like” our page.

Carroll HS baked fish option

A pile of fish at Chaminade

Hasty Tasty Pancake House – a fish refill looks like this

Pull tabs at Our Lady of the Rosary Fish fry

Holy Angels Fish Fry

A Labatts in a Yeungling cup at Holy Angels Fish Fry

Holy Trinity – our first plate

Incarnation Fish fry casino area

Desserts at Our Lady of the Rosary in the kitchen

Dayton Rugby Club fish Fry crowd

Bread for St Alberta Fish fry

St Anthony has the typical condiments

St Charles Fish Fry

St Charles Fish Fry

St Francis offers baked fish too

Hush puppies at St Helens

Pabst at St Helens

St Mary’s fish fry prep

St Marys desserts

St Paul’s dessert table

Wings, dogs, and more at St Peters

Yankee Trace Fish Fry

Yankee Trace Fish Fry

Darke County Announces First Brewery!

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Darke County’s first Brewery is set to open this summer

 

Big Rack Brewery is coming to Darke County this summer.  Dayton Most Metro and Food Adventures have the first inside scoop of what to expect. It will be located in New Madison at the current Kennedy Vineyards Homestead and Tasting room. You may recall our full story on the winery last week (click here).  Owners John and Louisa Kennedy are seeking licensing and are hopeful that the brewery will operational by June.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on BIG RACK BREWERY:

—BIG RACK BREWERY will be located at 3911 St. Rt. 722 in New Madison, Ohio in the same site as the winery tasting room

The Bar area of the Tasting Room

for Kennedy Vineyards.  The site is a fully operational farm and a family homestead.  It is also a vineyard, and you can see the rows of grapes as you pull into the parking lot.

—The brewery will feature 4 in-house brewed, craft beers on tap.  They will have one mainstay beer, an OATMEAL STOUT (yet to be named).

—The other 3 beers will be 1 Seasonal Brew, and 2 other taps that will be revolving with either new beers or returning favorites.

— The Brewery will sell growlers and pints and will continue to sell bottles of wines, glasses of wine, and wine flights.

Owners John and Louisa Kennedy

—There is plenty of seating in the tasting room and at the bar.  This building was the old corn crib for the farm.  There is also a beautiful view from the patio seating overlooking the farm and vineyard.

—The Food Adventures Crew has been to the homestead a handful of times, and the family is very genuine and friendly.  They make you feel right at home.

—The news is so fresh that they have not even finalized their website yet.  Stay tuned for the launch of www.bigrackbrewery.com

A perfect chance for you to visit and experience the Brewery and Winery is an incredible dinner event coming this summer.

They will be hosting a Hog Roast Food Adventure Dinner on Saturday June 3rd set with acoustic music early and a band in the evening.

The event is called “WINE and SWINE.”

*** SATURDAY JUNE 3rd “WINE and SWINE” HOG ROAST at KENNEDY VINEYARD and BIG RACK BREWERY ***

TICKETS (ONLY AVAILABLE ONLINE AT THIS LINK)  are $25 per person, and includes:

—One bottle of wine per person

Kennedy Vineyard in New Madison, Ohio

—Pulled Pork Hog Roast Dinner with homemade sides of Cheesey Potatoes, Cole Slaw and Baked Beans.

—Acoustic Music before and during dinner, Rock n roll Band after dinner in the barn til 9pm.

This will be a casual event, rain or shine, we will have tents and you can decide when you want to arrive, based on festivities from 2-10pm.

 

TIMELINE OF THE “WINE and SWINE” EVENT on SATURDAY JUNE 3rd, 2017

(come whenever you like, dinner starts 4pm)

2pm – Vineyard opens (cash bar available all day for extra purchases)
2pm – 4pm  Mingle on the vineyard grounds, explore the tasting room
3pm – 5pm Acoustic Music
4pm – 6pm Hog Roast Dinner is served, all you care to eat
7-9pm – Rock Band in the barn
6pm – 10pm CASH BAR

This promises to be a blast, so please GET YOUR TICKETS NOW !

TICKETS ARE PRE-PAY ONLY – click here to buy yours (Only 200 tickets will be sold)

Comfort and Fun

 

The Food Adventures Crew can’t wait to try the new brews and we are very happy for the Kennedy family.  We have seen the hard work they have put into the business over the past few years, and they have developed quite a following.   We wish them continued success on this additional venture and suggest you visit them before and after the brewery is open.  You will love this spot.

Speaking of love…. do you love the Miami Valley food scene?  Then join FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking HERE.  We are not food critics, we are 3 passionate foodies that love to eat  We love to share our favorite local spots and more.  No rules, just good food.

Please feel free to browse the photos below of the Kennedy Homestead and future site of the brewery.

Tasting Room from the outside

John tends to customers in the tasting room

Early patio days – much more furniture now and same great view

Louisa educating us on their winery

Dinner bell

Wandering the vineyard

Updated tasting room

3 generations of family

Grandma Kennedy makes sure Ragu isnt double parked or she will pistol whip him with a yellow squash

We have a bigfoot sighting

The winery will be adding a BREWERY !

Kennedy Vineyard- expanding from wine to beer too !

It is great to see this locally owned business evolving

More patio seating

Chickens on the adjacent farm

From grapes, to hops and barley – they will have it all.

Outside the tasting room

Peaceful scene of the fields adjacent to the Vineyard – where baby Kal El landed in his spaceship from Krypton in Superman 1

Plenty of patio seating

Located near Greenville and Arcanum

Casual, at home feel

View of the tasting room and barn from the road

 

 

 

 

Best Local Winery You’ve Never Heard of: Kennedy Vineyard + **CONTEST**

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Kennedy Vineyards in New Madison, Ohio

It is all in the family for Kennedy Vineyard, a locally owned winery that you may not have heard of, but you will never forget.
Northwest of the Miami Valley, located in New Madison, Ohio, the property has personality, warmth and a homey feel.  It makes sense.  The winery and tasting room are all located on the family homestead. It is a fully functioning winery and farm.  Depending on where you live in Dayton, the trip could take from between 20 to 45 minutes.  It is a perfect date night, or destination Food Adventure.  It feels like a weekend escape, when you have really just traveled to the next county.

Time to explore……

Louisa and John Kennedy

HERE’S THE SKINNY on KENNEDY VINEYARD:

— Three generations live on the homestead, from grandma to the grandaughter.  All contribute to the working farm.  You may see some chickens and crops if you keep your eyes peeled.  Parts of the farm have been turned into the winery.  The tasting room is the old corn crib.  You may even get a welcome from the family’s young daughter, who is very sweet.

— John and Louisa Kennedy are the owners of the winery.  They have poured a lot of dedication and hard work into making the place a comfortable and delicious experience.  It is a welcoming spot and place that every Daytonian should visit.

Grapes on the vine

— Twelve years ago, John’s mom started planting the grapes.  John, who grew up in the home, took over production and in 2014, the tasting room was opened.

—The Winery address is 3911 State Route 722, New Madison, Ohio.  It is just a few miles off of an exit on I-70 West not far from Greenville/Arcanum.

—Kennedy Vineyard’s philosophy is to make the wines in small batches. This keeps the wines young, and helps preserve the fruity flavors.  Many of the bottle’s labels are artwork from friends, family and customers.  Some are drawn from photos taken at the winery by friends or family.

—The winery hopes to be brewing beer too by summer 2017.

A taste of “Twisted Oak”

— Limited Menu HERE offering flatbread pizzas, meat and cheese trays from local farms. The cheeses are from J’s Country Store and the meats are from Winner’s meats.

— Tasting Room Hours:  Thurs 6pm-9pm,  Fri 4pm-9pm, Sat. 2pm -10pm

— Wine Prices are as follows:  

****** Bottles of Wine – $10-$15, depending on what style you order.

****** Wine Flights:  7, one ounce pours for $5  or build your own wine flights for $1 per pour

Inside the tasting room

****** Glasses of Wine: $5 – $8.50 depending on the wine

They have an assorted meat and cheese plates that hit the spot, while tasting wines.  They sometimes offer flatbreads and soups as well.  But the main event is the wine, and we have the breakdown of all the wines you don’t want to miss.

*NOTE* Dear Sophisticated wine drinkers,  the selection of wines is not very dry, so don’t expect that.  You can expect some semi-dry and fruity wines, many of them sweet as well.  Keep an open mind, as they are a growing establishment using Ohio grapes.  You won’t find a dry, dark merlot here…..  yet.

 

MUST DRINKS at KENNEDY VINEYARD:

Meat and Cheese plate

TWISTED OAK:  One of their dry, red wines.  The wine is stored in oak barrels for flavor.  The result is traces of coffee and rich, dark chocolate.  The artwork on the label is truly unique.

 

LONE CEDAR RED:  A dry wine made with De Chaunac Grapes, which is a hybrid of a French-American grape project in the 1860’s.  The grape is vibrant in Canada, New York, Ohio and Michigan.  This red wine won the bronze medal at the 2015 Finger Lakes International wine competition.  Named for a lone

A view of the vineyard

cedar tree that survived on the farm.

 

DARKE KNIGHT:  One of the Big Ragu’s favorite wines.  It has black cherry and blackberry undertones.  The vineyard describes it as “a full bodied, red wine.”  A little too sweet for Hungry Jax tastes, this was a 2015 Finger Lakes International Wine Fest Silver Medal winner.

The youngest Kennedy on site showing off some fall squash harvest

 

RED NECK GIRL: The #1 selling wine at the Kennedy Vineyard.  Is it the name or the soft and sweet taste.  This wine dances with fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry.  Refreshingly delicious, this wine was also a Silver Medal winner at the 2015 Finger Lakes International wine fest

 

EMERICK SKY: Semi Dry crisp white wine, with refreshing citrus flavors.  Artwork on label is from a photo taken of the sky above Emerick Street.

 

RIESLING:  The Big Ragu also pegs this as his other favorite.   A sweet, refreshing taste , almost like champagne.  Very light, white almost clear wine.  The flavor is so nice and all day drinkable.  The Big Ragu drank this one so fast, John Kennedy looked at him and said “You’re not much of a sipper are you?”

 

Delicious wines

LOVE AT FIRST WHITE: A signature white wine from Kennedy Vineyard.  Big Ragu loves this one as well.  Cold, refreshing and sweet.  Fall in love with the sweetness and the bold flavors of the Niagara Grape.

 

RED NECK LOVE:  This is an invention of the staff.  It is actually a glass of half “Red Neck Girl” and half “Love at First White.”  The result is a popular sweet blush.  This one is a lot of fun and in the spirit of a Food Adventure.

 

BLACKBERRY WINE: Very fruity flavors abide in this one.  A little deep, yet subtle, it is a great sipping wine.  This wine is the 2nd most popular wine at Kennedy Vineyard.

Making “Red Neck Love”

 

RESILIENT: Their blush wine.  Pink in color, refreshing and semi-sweet wine.  $1 off all bottle sales goes to the Epilepsy Foundation

 

And now we turn to ones that are sold out until next year….

 

MUST DRINKS THAT ARE “OUT OF STOCK” UNTIL NEXT HARVEST:

Patio area

KV SUNSET: A dry, red wine, this is their Estate Reserve wine.  This means the grapes were grown on premises and processed from vine, to crush to bottle at the winery.  There were limited quantities of this one due to a limited quantities of a special “Chambourcin Grape” grown at the vineyard.  It is a French-American Hybrid grape, and rare at Ohio wineries.  KV Sunset is also the winery’s dryest wine.  This is their rarest bottle of wine, and since they only brew a limited small batch, it goes quickly.  Maybe you will get a taste in 2017.  This is their dryest wine on the menu.

Grandma Kennedy talks with the Big Ragu

 

CHARDONNAY:  This popular, dry white wine has a subtle oak taste.  It is light tasting and has hints of citrus flavor.  They are looking to get this favorite back in stock, real soon.

 

TRAMINETTE:  A semi-dry white wine, this is a well balanced product.  There are tastes of apple and pears, with a spicy end and aftertaste.

 

We have been to Kennedy Vineyard a four times now with friends, and this place has stolen our heart.  It is a great story about a charming local

Darke Night wine – not Batman, but Darke County

family, who are delivering a fun product.  Make sure you take the time to stop by this vineyard.

Now, we have an announcement…………..

*** SUMMER FOOD ADVENTURE “WINE AND SWINE.” at KENNEDY VINEYARDS SAT JUNE 3rd,  2pm-10pm ***

We are having a Food Adventure dinner event at Kennedy Vineyards for next year.

 

We are hosting at a 200 person limit, hog roast and barn party called “WINE AND SWINE.”

$25 per person, get your tickets at this link

Blackberry Wine

Attendees will each get a bottle of wine and a full Pork BBQ dinner.

SATURDAY JUNE 3rd, 2017 SCHEDULE:
2pm-4pm CASH BAR and Mingle on the vineyard grounds,
3pm-5pm Acoustic Music
4pm – 6pm Hog Roast Dinner to include:
1 bottle of wine per person.  Pulled Pork, homemade BBQ Sauce, Homemade Slaw, homemade Cheesey Potatoes, homemade Baked Beans
7-9pm Rock Band
6pm – 10pm CASH BAR

This promises to be a blast, so please GET YOUR TICKETS NOW !

LET’S GET SOME EARLY BUZZ STARTED…  pun intended

THE BIG RAGU, CHEF HOUSE and HUNGRY JAX have decided to give away 2 tickets to this event to kick off the new year !!

That is a $50 value – all you have to do is comment below and one person will be chosen at random next week to win 2 tickets to JUNE 3rds WINE AND SWINE event !!!

Check out more photos of the vineyard below.

Giving away 2 tickets to the WINE and SWINE Food Adventure event – comment below

Chickens on the farm

Big Ragu sips wine and ponders the year

Ohio Grapes

 

Vineyard

More Vineyard

Love at First White

Welcome to Kenney Vineyard

John and Louisa

A working farm

Tasting all the good stuff

Used corks

Fall at the Vineyard

Twisted Oak

At home with ” Apple of My Eye”

Sipping at home

The homestead

Ragu cooks with the wine

Kennedy Vineyard – a secret you now know about

Fall dried up

Autumn on the farm

Winery decor

Beautiful label

Lone Cedar Red

Sipping Emerick Sky

Scallops with wine

Grapes

Warm inviting and fall colors

A Dayton Lesson for 2017

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Kim and Craig Jolly and their family

Here is a story you won’t soon forget.  This is Steve Milano aka The Big Ragu. Typically I write about local restaurants and local eats.  No Food Adventures today.  Today, instead we give you some food for thought.

While most people are making plans and new year’s promises, others are making very simple ones.  Their new year’s resolutions are to  continue the fight, to live, to survive.  This article is not only about a lifelong Dayton resident, it is about every person right now who is in a life and death battle with an illness.  It is a lesson for all of us to remember.

Craigs Cat Scan

Flashback 30 years ago, to August, 1987.   The Centerville football team locker room empties as the players trot down the gravel to the practice field.  It has been a long 8 months of weight lifting and conditioning. The original crowd in January of 100 perspective players has dwindled down to about 50.  The ones who are left are preparing for their first game.  One of those who persevered is a sophomore named Craig Jolly.  Craig was strong, and motivated.  Even then he was a fighter and a survivor in every sense of the word.  I know.  I was a senior playing offensive line too, and he was right there every practice, every step of the way.

New medicines and experimental treatments are a source of hope

Today, Craig has a family.  He has a local home with his wife Kim and two young daughters.  Unfortunately, Craig has something else.  He has a battle to fight.  But that is ok, because to his family, he is Superman.  On July 14th, 2016 Craig was diagnosed with a Grade 4 Glioblostoma tumor, the most deadly and aggressive form of brain cancer there is.  He was told then that the median life expectancy was 16 months. 

Ironically this being the holiday season, jolly is a word used quite often in songs, holiday movies and tv shows. Their whole life, they lived with this name, Jolly.  They are straining to hold onto that faith and their namesake.

His sister, Heather summed up the situation best on his DONATION PAGE:

Craigs sister Heather tries and comfort her brother’s pain in the hospital

Craig doesn’t live like he is dying. Craig lives like he is living.
And he always has. My brother has an enthusiasm for life, like I’ve never known. He effortlessly fills a room. He’s not just a piece of a part, he’s the whole show. He tells the jokes, and then he laughs at them too. And once you’ve heard his laugh you’ll remember it all your life. It bounces off walls and echoes down halls and it is unbelievably and undeniably infectious.

Craig isn’t just living, Craig is life.

Craig after a chemo treatment #oursuperman

He is the pulse of our family. The heartbeat of our home. And the first love of my life.
I have watched Craig fight, everyday these last 5 months. Everyday he fights. But he’s not just fighting cancer he’s fighting all the sadness and headache that comes with its demons.
That come with dying. But you’d never know.  If he gets down, he gets back up.
Every. Single. Day. He fights.
He fights for happiness, for love and for joy. He fights for laughing and smiling and living out loud. He fights for Kim and for Evan and for Anne.
And everyday he wins.
I will be in awe of his strength, determination, and optimism for the rest of my life. I will be devoted, admire and respect him, for the rest his.

 

Craig has decided not return to work. His wife Kim has taken an immediate indefinite leave of absence from her work to devote herself to his round the clock care.  They have spent money investigating countless studies, trials and equipment in pursuit of any glimpse of hope.  But it doesn’t matter.  Their commitment to each other is endless.  .

Craig’s sister Heather describes Kim and Craig’s interaction:

Kim and Craig Jolly

Kim’s look is one of unconditional, unwavering, endless love. She has been our rock. Craig’s is one of a man completely still smitten, 20 years later. I see gratitude in his embrace and the hardest part is, I see an apology in his eyes.
I’m sorry we didn’t get forever. I’m sorry you’ll raise our children alone.

A PLAN OF ATTACK:

Heather goes on to explain that in late November/early December, doctors learned that Craig’s tumor despite being cut out, despite being radiated, despite being starved with a ketogenic diet, despite being poisoned with chemotherapy, is back, and has very aggressively grown and spread throughout his brain.  But here’s the thing, you’d never know that either. Craig’s entire brain is swollen, shifted past midline, and infected with tumor. And yet he’s still just laughing, loving, living Craig. Is it sheer willpower? Or is it a miracle?

Endless tests, xrays and more

Surgery: Craig had decided to go forward on December 29th, with a very involved tenuous second craniotomy where they will remove all areas of tumor, a significant part of his brain and then inject a trial vaccine into the cavity to try to eradicate it.  Craig fully understood the risks and possible outcomes.  But you see, Craig is a fighter.  He wants to go down swinging.
He wants to live life… living, as his family says.
Craig knew that regardless of the outcome, the knowledge gained from this trial will eventually help others.

The family asked Craig the week of his diagnosis 5 months ago if his sister could make him a “Go Fund Me” page, knowing very well

Craig and his daughter

the catastrophic cost that come with terminal diagnosis’s. His pride just smiled, shook his head and declined.
“We’re okay he said, we don’t need it now.”
This time Heather didn’t ask him.   This time she is asking anyone to help.  He needs it now.
Heather wanted to raise money so Craig could enjoy these moments free of financial worry. So he can have some relief to spend time with his family stress free. So he can continue to spend his time living his life living, for all the days of his life.

Heather writes: “And I would be absolutely grateful beyond measure, if you would help me. #oursuperman”

 

UPDATE  DECEMBER 28th – THE POWER OF POSITIVITY, PERSEVERANCE and PRAYER:

The family has been holding onto hope this holiday season.  Again, Craig’s little sister writes on her Facebook page:

Superman and his sister Heather

“Hope has been a word that’s hard to get close to these days. Hope has an electric fence wrapped and entangled around it; you can only get shocked by it so many times before you stop trying to get near it. There’s been so many times along this journey that we’ve gotten too close to Hope only to be jolted, thrown back in the air, and dropped to the ground.

But that wasn’t today.  Today Hope knocked one out of the park.”

Craig explains why in his Caring Bridge Entry below.
#lovewins #thepowerofprayer #oursuperman

“I’ve never seen anything like it.” Not exactly the words you expect to hear from your neurosurgeon the night before brain surgery. My pre-operative MRI was significantly improved to the point that he had to double-check to be sure it was still mine. Mid-line shift was gone, swelling was down, and new lesions are now imperceptible. The main tumor that was 5.7 (and too large for me to qualify for the Tocogen trial) was now at 4.3cm. They’ve already submitted paperwork to see if I can re-qualify for the Toca trial, but for now we are standing down – no surgery tomorrow!!

And. . . exhale. This punctuates a couple day stretch where both car

Craig and his sister Heather share a laugh

batteries died, our dishwasher and sink broke, our basement flooded and we had to rush to the hospital to get a platelet draw again to see if I could even do surgery. Seriously, what a roller coaster.I’m gonna curl up in a warm bed and sleep well tonight. Or maybe now. Now feels good. . . “
Craig

It is great news heading into the new year and we wish Craig continued improvements.  We hope this story is an inspiration and lesson to many.  Please note as you ring in the new year.  Some have resolutions that may be way different than yours.  Take a lesson from perseverance and never giving up.

We wish a fantastic new year to Craig and his family and everyone who took time to read this article.

In 2017, you never know who will step out and be a superhero, but the Jolly family definitely has a #Superman.

If you would like to help donate to Craig’s cause, click the Go fund me links above or go to his Caring Bridge site HERE.

Craig Jolly and his sister Heather

2016: The Year in Dayton Food

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Tilapia over Rice at Archer's Kettering

Tilapia over Rice at Archer’s Kettering

The Dayton food world had comers and goers in the year 2016.   Lots of eateries opened and some closed.  We said goodbye to some old favorites and said hello to some new and exciting cuisine.

Today, Food Adventures looks back on the year in review.  If you are a foodie, check out our list below.  You will see a lot of new places in the Miami Valley that will spark your interest!

Get a fork, spoon and your nostalgia caps on as we explore the “The Year in Food.”

 

*****RESTAURANTS THAT OPENED in 2016*****

ARCHERS TAVERN, KETTERING: Taking a successful restaurant philosophy and expanding it to Kettering has seemed to work out well

Bean and chicken Arepas from "Arepas and Co."

Bean and chicken Arepas from “Arepas and Co.”

for the owners of Archer’s.  If the first couple of months are any indication, look for continued success at this location on Dorothy Lane in the old Tumbleweed location.

AREPAS and CO. – DOWNTOWN: This Columbian restaurant opened it’s 3rd location in old Olive Dive spot.  Besides a strong cultural menu, they offer catering to parties big and small.  Delicious, fresh and food choices you won’t find anywhere else.

BAR 145:  This restaurant chain is open at Austin Landing.  It is known for burgers, lots of beers on tap and a section of the restaurant that holds vintage 80’s arcade games and live music on the weekends. Definitely a fun place to check out.

Golden Graham Donuts from Bear Creek Donuts

Golden Graham Donuts from Bear Creek Donuts

BAR LOUIE: Austin Landing landed this chain in 2016.  A slightly more casual version of the one at the Greene, you can expect the same happy hour and burger specials.  And try the totchos – yes, tater tots in your nachos…

BASIL’S ON MARKET: North Patterson Blvd is the expansion location for this 2nd restaurant opening (the original one is still in business in Troy). Incredible food photos on their Facebook page scream “You gotta come eat here.”  They have some amazing looking food and a huge patio overlooking the water.

BEAR CREEK DONUTS: Inventive, locally owned donut shop in Miamisburg that raises the bar on toppings.  One trip to this place, and you will be hooked.  Golden Grahams on Donuts?  Yeah , they got that.

Margherita Flatbread Pizza from BJ's Taphouse

Margherita Flatbread Pizza from BJ’s Taphouse

BIBIBOP ASIAN GRILL:  This Columbus chain finally lands in Dayton near U.D. and has plans for a couple more to come.   The Korean inspired meals start with steamed rice, topped with your choice of grilled meats or tofu and a mix of fresh vegetables and Asian sauces.

BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE, FAIRFIELD COMMONS:  That craft beer brewing chain with the great appetizers, opens up another mammoth eatery near Fairfield Commons mall.  The menu is solid from top to bottom.

BLUE NOTE BISTRO and LOUNGE:  New jazz hall and restaurant on 23 E. Central Ave in Miamisburg, which offers Sunday brunch.  Over the summer, they expanded dining and music hours.  Their Facebook page usually details the happenings.

The Monte Cristo Sandwich from Cheddars – Yes, it is deep fried

BRAVO, FAIRFIELD COMMONS:  The familiar Italian chain, expands in the Beavercreek/Fairborn area.  Must eats are the ravioli, and of course we love to dip the bread in that olive oil mixture, all night long.

CARMELLA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN: Just opened in the old Murphy’s Pub location on Wilmington Pike.  Their menu features Italian foods and sandwiches.

CHEDDAR’S SCRATCH KITCHEN:  Chain out of Irving, Texas, with dozens of locations reaching up into New York.  Big portions and a huge menu with semi-reasonable prices.  Think TGI Fridays on steroids or a casual version of Cheesecake Factory (with no cheesecakes.)     The new popular place at The Cornerstone development on Feedwire Rd.  Warning: Long waiting list during peak times.

The Chicken and Steak Fajitas from Chuy’s

CHUY’S, FAIRFIELD COMMONS: This Mexican chain is popping up stores quickly and the newest one is a location near the Fairfield Commons Mall.  Great guacamole dip starts out each meal right.  Try the margaritas and the Elvis Presley Memorial Combo of Enchiladas.

CRAFTED and CURED:  Two local men started this in Spring, 2016.  The concept is a cured meat shop, with over 60 craft beers on tap, featuring ales, stouts, ciders, sours and meads.  Of course the menu will feature rare meats and cheeses.  Read Chef House’s scoop HERE on her MostMetro article.  And they’ve just announced that 3 more food businesses will be joining them in 2017- a deli- Local Hero Butchery & Fare, a seafood option- Jack Lukey’s Oyster Saloon & Caviar Bar and Mediterranean goodies from Glasz Bleu Oven.

 

Chef House with a brew at “Crafted and Cured”

D20: A Bar With Characters-  Board games and brews on draft are the hallmark for this new place in the shopping center adjacent to the Whipp Rd Kroger.  Local owners Andrew Sparks and Christine Cooper have come up with the concept, and the drinking and dining area look inviting.  The D20 reference is a slang name for a Dungeon’s and Dragon’s 20 sided dice.

DARK HORSE TAVERN (closed in July -reopened in Nov.): They abruptly closed in July 2016, but the love of this place caused a deal to transfer the ownership and keep the menu and music alive.  Known for bands and BBQ, it is a great watering hole, with a huge bar.  Opened back up in November, Manager Nikky Vontz  is getting this place running right!

DON PATRON MEXICAN GRILL of FAIRBORN:  They have 2 Ohio locations, the latest being on 2632 Colonel Glenn Highway.  Specialties include Carnitas, Burritos, Fajitas and of course, Tacos.  They even have wings.

DOUBLE D’S FIT-Q MEAL PREP:  Waynesville’s BBQ boys have opened a brick and mortar place in downtown Lebanon.

Double D’s BBQ on a Cornbread Waffle

Owners Dan Velemirov and Dustin Seyersdahl are known for some great traditional BBQ.  They also have a signature sweet cornbread waffle and BBQ hot shot.

DOUBLEDAYS, SPRINGBORO: One of Dayton’s most popular locally owned restaurants, expanded to another location in front of the Dorothy Lane Market Springboro in the old Sammy’s El Pueblo building.  New location, but the same old favorites remain.  If you have not tried their homemade soups, you are in for a treat.  They also showcase an extensive sandwich, burger and dinner platter menu.

Doubleday’s Greek Chicken Soup- now in Springboro too

FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS: A new fast food chain hits Dayton.  It is a cross between Steak and Shake and Culver’s.  Quick smashed burgers on the grill, hot dogs and custard sundaes are the signature of this quick bite.  Drive thru or dine in, and you will enjoy this throwback meal.

GYRO DELIGHT:  Some good buzz is going about this new gyro shop on Wilmington Pike.  They have familiar treats like Shish kabobs, Greek fries, chicken gyros and traditional gyros.  They also carry exotic Mediterranean food like baklava, shawarma, moussaka and dolmades.

JOHN ANTHONY’S SOUTHERN CUISINE:  This spot opened

A Double Cheeseburger from Freddy’s Steakburgers and Custard

in summer 2016 on Salem Ave.  They feature salads, fried catfish, collard greens, fried chicken & waffles.  Soul food at it’s finest, even down to the fried okra.

KUPBOP:  The latest quick eatery on Woodman Dr.  highlights the lighter, healthier side of Korean cuisine.  The “Create Your Own” seems to be the way to go.  This is the Korean version of Chipotle.

MARILYN’S GRILL:  This restaurant has been serving Soul food on North Main since January. Daily specials like Pork Chops, and Lemon Pepper Wings are crowd pleasers.  Other items like chicken and dumplings, or Philly Chicken subs look unreal.

OinkadoodleMoo is back in Miamisburg

MIKE’S NASHVILLE HOT:  The new “go to ” place for Southern fried chicken at Austin Landing.  Hand breaded chicken in strips, or whole pieces, spicy or not.  They also have a slew of sides and a perch option, with a 2nd location coming to Centerville on 48.

MURRAY’S PUB: Opened in January, 2016, then in December, 2016 announced it would be transitioning into the 937 Grill and Taproom.  Two new owners are taking over.  Look for an expanding bar menu and continued drink specials.

Panda Express in Bellbrook. The only Chinese Drive Thru, has cheese wontons

OINK-A-DOODLE-MOO: Miamisburg is the new location for this place, formerly in Kettering.  Great BBQ, sauces and sides are the tradition here.  Located at 40 N Main St in Miamisburg, they have a full catering menu too.

OLD BAG OF NAILS PUB: Cross Pointe’s latest restaurant is one of a group of Columbus owned eateries.  They have an extensive menu of burgers and sandwiches, and many seafood entrees like Scallops, Blackened Tuna Steak and Fried Clams. A nice soup and dessert offering round out a large menu of options.

Panera in Huber Heights is now serving delicious onion soups.

OLD SCRATCH PIZZA and BEER: The word is out about this new pizza place, and the feedback has been great.  They have red sauce options, white sauce options,salads, sandwiches and a full craft beer list.  Create your own pizza, or choose from the dozen options they have.  Located at 812 South Patterson Blvd. there’s even a great private room for parties or meetings.

PANDA EXPRESS:  Dayton’s only “drive thru Chinese restaurant” is here.  This eatery is owned out of California with sites all over the USA including mall courts.  Menu choices are simple and traditional.  Choose from chicken or shrimp in sweet sauces or fried.

Pastrami Sandwich from Primanti Brothers, a chain out of Pittsburgh

PANERA BREAD, HUBER HEIGHTS:  The familiar chain with the bread bowl soups, pastries and more.  Huber Heights, you too now, can enjoy the fun.

PHILLY PRETZEL FACTORY:  Centerville just held a ribbon cutting at this location on S. Main Street near Lock 27.  Big, Soft Pretzels are the love here, with various toppings and dips.  Get ready to make and bring back some memories with your first bites.

PIZZA FIRE: The fresh toppings pizza place where you run down the line and top it yourself.  The new location is on 4325 Far Hills Ave in Kettering.

PRIMANTI BROTHERS:  The famous Pittsburgh chain is now in Dayton too, near the Fairfield Commons mall.  Overstuffed pastrami sandwiches, reubens, and are all the rage here.  Are they as good as the original?  You be the judge.

Rapid Fired Pizzas are popping up all over. They have a Blueberry Dessert Pizza !

RAPID FIRED PIZZA (4 new locations): Fairborn, Centerville, Bellbrook and Huber Heights,  locations are all news and  have all been thriving and Kettering opensthis Friday with FREE pizza.  Quick Pizzas and Quick huge salads for about $7.95.  With topping choices like ricotta cheese and sun dried tomatoes, what’s not to like?

SKY ASIAN CUISINE: The upscale Sushi restaurant that took over the struggling location at the corner of Wilmington Pike and Woodman’s fork in the road.  All the discussions we have heard about this place have been very positive.

SMITH’S BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT: On the Great Miami River, in Troy, Ohio, this upscale dinner place specializes in Seafood and Steak.  A fun, elegant setting, and the owners are lifelong locals who seem to really care about the food quality.

Loose Meat Sandwich from Spent Grain Grill. New inside Warped Wing 2016

SPENT GRAIN GRILL:  Inside Warped Wing Brewery, this literal hole in the wall place serves tremendous amounts of food to a busy, thirsty brew crowd.  From loose meat sandwiches to the tater tots, we are fans of this new place.  Spent Grain literally uses the waste from the brewing process to make pizza dough and bread for their burger and  sandwich buns.  Good idea, and it fills a need  for tasty food while drinking locally brewed beer.

STAGECOACH CAFE:  New Carlisle has a quaint new eatery that is turning heads.  With 35 facebook reviews and all of them 5 stars, it is time to give credit where due.  Specials like Lasagna and Chicken and Noodles, point to a place with comfort food.  There saying is “Stop in and try the homemade difference.”  It looks like it is time for a a Food Adventure.

TABLE 33: With the saying “grow, share, eat,”  they are blazing a unique trail in the breakfast food jungle.  They use locally sourced products and have faith based philosophy of turning no hungry person away.   Located at 130 West 2nd Street, they offer weekend brunches as well.

James Nunez and his wife have a restaurant now on West Third Street.

TABLE of CONTENTS CAFE:  Xenia area cafe owned by Cassaundra Lee.  It is actually inside the Blue Jacket Bookstore.  They have a daily menu with coups made from scratch.  Hand baked items are available for dine-in or takeout.

TEXAS BEEF and CATTLE CO.: Originally know for festivals, these caterers now have a restaurant where patrons can own a share of the establishment.  Being an owner has its privileges such as price breaks and more.  Owner James Nunez and his family make some of the most succulent beef brisket we have ever tried.  Their BBQ sauces and rubs are amazing.  Get to 1105 W 3rd St, these people know what they are doing.

TOKYO JAPANESE GRILL & SUSHI:  New full service sushi restaurant with hibachi and Japanese soup choices as well.  Located across the street from the Cornerstone development on Feedwire Rd, it has been open since April, 2016.   Menu offers deals on larger pieces of sushi orders.

VICTOR’S TACO SHOP:  Recently opened at 1438 Keowee Street, there is also a location at 1002 N. Broad St. in Fairborn.  This colorful drive thru specializes in Tacos, Rolled Tacos, Quesadillas and Todstadas.

Zombie Dogz: now on Brown Street Serving “Juan of the Dead” and others

THE WANDERING GRIFFIN: The newest Brewery and watering hole has a unique design.  They have a couple bars and a coffee bar called Wanderlust.  The menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner is getting great reviews.  You may recall this place used to house Quaker Steak and Lube near Wright State’s Campus, just off Colonel Glenn Highway.

THE WRIGHT PLACE:  Completely remodeled restaurant inside the Holiday Inn, across from Wright State.  This eatery looks to pull guests in with historic decor and great food.  Using local foods and a “chef’s garden,” Chef Justin White looks to kick things up a notch on his menu.

ZOMBIE DOGZ: Dayton’s most popular food truck has a brick and mortar location on Brown St. in the old Shish Wraps storefront.  David and Lee VanArtsdalen have really pushed the envelope over the years, and now you can have all of your favorite dogz – check out their menu here.  How can anybody not love this fun place?

 

“Street Style Gyros” are must eats at the Greek Street Food Truck

*****NEW FOOD TRUCKS IN 2016*****
GREEK STREET FOOD TRUCK: Owner Chris Spirtos has taken his street Gyro recipes to the Dayton streets with great success.  They have one of the more grueling schedule of appearances, and it has led to many being exposed to their great foods.  Our faves are the baklava, spanakopita and “Chicken Gyros, Street Style”


LATIN AREPAS FOOD TRUCK:  A family operated food truck, that also offers catering.  The menu includes classic Venezuelan,Colombian, Latin American, and Tropical cuisine.  Menu items include Arepas, Tacos, & Empanadas.  They are Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly, with Gluten free choices.


MENEHUNE TIKI BUS: This is the only double decker food truck in Dayton, and it is a stunning sight.  Although dogged by a couple of unfortunate mechanical issues and a wreck, they are back and bringing their Hawaiian and South Pacific food to the Miami Valley masses.  The Kalua Pork Grilled Cheese sandwich is a “must eat.”

Menehune Tiki Bus is a two story Food Truck

SON OF A BISCUIT:  Dayton’s Breakfast Food Truck featuring Biscuit and English Muffin Sandwiches.  Brad Manning, the owner prides himself on quality ingredients so he only serves Landes Fresh Meats from an old fashioned farm market in Clayton that specializes in Farm-Harvested Beef & Pork.  This Food Truck makes it easy to want to “rise and shine.”

 

And now … sadly, some of our favorite Food Adventure spots closed this year as well…

We give a tip of the hat to those we will miss.

*****RESTAURANTS THAT CLOSED in 2016*****

Bad Dog, Nice Taco is missed !

BAD DOG, NICE TACO: Our own Chef LeeAnne House and Brian Johnson teamed to bring you a hot dog and nacho cart that spoiled us with toppings from feta to freshly made housemade sauces.  Currently Chef House is in Chicago, and when we asked about a re-opening possibility for Bad Dog, she said “never say never.”  Stay Tuned.

THE BARNSIDER: After more than 41 years, the Barnsider restaurant served its last meal in May 2016.  Known for prime rib and shrimp dinners, you can still buy their cocktail sauce at local grocers and Foremost Seafood.

No more Bob Evans French Toast on Harshman Rd

BOB EVAN’S:  The location on Harshman Road, near Stebbins High School closed in 2016.  We hope the students of Stebbins are still able to get biscuits, gravy and pancakes at acceptable intervals.

BOSTON’S BISTRO: July 2016 marked a historic closing.  After 35 years of business, owner Dave Boston closed his establishment on N. Main Street. Much of his business has been at the old Sports Page location. It was a building his father built.  Boston’s was known for being the first place to sell multiple craft beers in the Dayton area.  He started selling craft beers in the 1970’s.  Dave said he would reopen at another site if the deal was right.

David Boston, in his now closed pub

CORLEONE’S CENTERVILLE:  This spinoff pizza joint was the 2nd location for Corleone’s, tucked into a shopping center on 725 behind Fricker’s.  It never quite took off, even though they had some tremendous pizza and pasta options.  Thankfully the Patterson Rd. location is still open.

DESIGNER DOGS:  It opened in January, 2016 inside the Fairfield Commons mall, and closed in September.  Inventive toppings on the hot dogs included shout outs to various cities and states.  The owners promise a return in some fashion, noting a deal in the works to mass produce their dogs.  Hopefully we see them again real soon.

Corleone’s in Centerville closed. We miss the pasta dishes .

DON PABLO’S, FAIRFIELD COMMONS:  They were one of the first restaurants to open around the Fairfield Mall.  Decades later, they would close in 2016 citing lack of business.  We are sad to see them go as their drinks and chips with salsa were some of the best around town.

DT’s KITCHEN CARRYOUT: They opened in March and closed in December, 2016.  The menu was a broad diner menu from Quesadillas to Fried Shrimp Dinners.  We hate to see locally owned restaurants close, especially when the customer reviews looked so good.

Inside Sushi Cafe one last time

ECLIPSE COFFEE and TEA:  Locally owned coffee shop located on Wilmington Pike between LaRosa’s and Frisch’s.  Maybe the location was tough, because it looks like the product was superior.  They carried quality coffees and teas out of Seven Hills, Ohio.

KAI SUSHI CAFE: One of Dayton’s first sushi restaurants. The crowds had dwindled over the years with increased competition.  An empty parking lot seemed the norm the last few months, and after a couple of transfers of ownership and a legal dispute, the restaurant could not continue to operate.  We hope this old Howard Johnson building on Byers Rd. gets a new tenant soon.

KRISPY KREME: January, 2016 was the closing date for cult favorite.  The national donut franchise could not keep up with local

No more “Hot Fresh Now” light.  Damn you Krispy Kreme !

favorites.  Although it will close, regional bakeries will still be pumping Krispy Kreme product into various gas station convenient stores around town.

LAROSA’S, HUBER HEIGHTS:  Buddy LaRosa decided to pack this one in during 2016.  The Cincinnati based company could not get the business they wanted to stay open.  But don’t worry although the 7375 Old Troy Pike location is closed, there are others around Dayton and of course Wayne students can still get slices at King’s Island.

LaRosas closes in Huber Heights – no more all you can eat spaghetti

LOGAN’S ROADHOUSE, FAIRFIELD COMMONS MALL: A surprise to many, corporate cited high rent and low income for the closing.  If you people would have just not thrown your damn peanut shells on the floor.

MAX n ERMA’S SPRINGBORO:  Located at 710 Gardener Rd, off of State Route 741, this restaurant closed in January, 2016.  We love Max n Erma’s.  We love this regional chain and concept from the Garbage Burger to the drinks.  Hopefully another one will open in town, soon.

Chopped Steak and Sweet Potato from Logan’s Roadhouse

MCKENNA’S GRILL: This restaurant on Presidential Drive in Fairborn, inside the Holiday Inn, closed to make way for “The Wright Place.”

MURPHY’S IRISH PUB:  This locally owned restaurant closed in late 2016 and was replaced by Carmella’s Italian Kitchen.  It’s sister restaurant Paddy’s in Centerville remains open.

OSAKA SUSHI and BUFFET:  Dayton’s first conveyor belt sushi restaurant, was an upscale buffet that just never

Sangria at Max n Ermas

caught on.  There was a strong regular customers of Asian descent, but the big crowds were few, forcing them to close.  The owner has promised to renegotiate the rent and reopen as a hibachi restaurant much like Sake or Benihana.

Osaka Sushi Buffet and Hibachi has closed on Kingsridge

QDOBA, BROWN STREET: This eatery closed July 2016.  It was located in the heart of the busy restaurant district across from University of Dayton.

SHISH WRAPS:  Simon Abboud owned this health conscious restaurant that turned Mediterranean street food into some wonderful creations.  We were very sad to see this place on Brown Street go.  Their hummus, tabouleh and sauces were all made from scratch.  Their shish wraps always left us “shish faced.”

SUSHI CLUB: February, 2016 marked the end for this “all you can eat” made to order sushi place on Alex Rd.  We had hit this spot many times and always had a good meal.  Maybe the food costs did them in, but they never could seem to capture the big crowds although they had a regular following.  We were surprised it closed so quickly and really miss the food.

Fajita Rancher Bowl from Qdoba

TASTY MEASURES CAFE: Although they made their own deli meats using Sous Vide style cooking methods, the business crowds were not enough to stay open.  Unfortunately this locally owned cafe on Jefferson Street closed in June, 2016.

UNCLE SUNNY’S HOMESTYLE CAJUN FISH & CHICKEN:  A family owned spot on 131 Cincinnati Ave in Xenia, it was all about the fried fish and chicken.  The reviews were great, and although they originally were going to be a 24 hour restaurant, that never came to fruition.  The owners are hinting at another project in the works, so stay tuned.

A Shish Wrap

That does it for the movers and shakers of this year.  Do you have a comment about any of the places that have closed or opened?  Please leave your thoughts below.

Do you have any predictions for 2017 ?

We look forward to more Food Adventures in 2017.  If you would like more on the Dayton food scene, follow us on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all, and to all a good bite!

Sushi Club – all you want sushi closed on Alex Rd.

Side of Lobster at Logan’s Roadhouse – CLOSED by Fairfield Commons Mall

Archers Kettering is HERE !

Bad Dog Nice Taco’s Breakfast Omelette taco

Chuy’s Elvis Enchiladas – a tribute to the King

Zombie Dogz – DEAD DIXIE dog

A Hot Dog from Freddy’s Steakburgers & Frozen Custard

Panda Express – Honey shrimp and General Tsao Chicken

Rapid Fired Pizza has lots of sauces !

Spent Grain’s cheesey gravy tots – inside Warped Wing

End of an Era – Boston’s Closes

All you can eat Sushi Club closes on Alex Rd. in 2016

The Greek Street Food truck cooking spinikopita

Kai Sushi Cafe – a last sushi roll

The Pork Grilled Cheese from Menetune Tiki bus – food truck

“Santa, We’ve Been Naughty with Food”

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Has this face been nice?

Has this face been nice?

Dear Santa,

“You see us when we are sleeping, and know when we’re awake. /We know we better be good, but some shortcuts we just had to take.”

The Food Adventures Crew admits it.  We made the naughty list.  Today we come clean about our secret shortcuts we use from time to time while in our kitchens.

THE BIG RAGU HAS BEEN NAUGHTY: 
The Big Ragu has a secret. It is a blemish on his Food Adventure career… Yes it is true, sometimes he fakes it. Sometimes, when in a pinch and he needs some marinara sauce, he turns to a locally jarred sauce. It is one of the only ones

The Big Ragu gets help on occassion

The Big Ragu gets help on occasion

he trusts. Mamma DiSalvo’s Marinara Sauce has saved him in many a tight spots.  From parties, to last minute luncheons, it has saved him from Manicotti to Mostaccioli.  When faced with hours and hours of cooking down a home made spaghetti sauce, sometimes he gets a little help from Mamma!  The sauce is the closest thing to The Big Ragu’s family recipe that he has tasted in a jar.  Ahh and the stress it saves.  Seriously, Foodies out there, this is the best jarred sauce in the WORLD.  Honorable mention to 2 other sauces:  Schiavione’s and Zappia’s, both made locally! I’m sorry Santa, shhhhhh  no one knows!

 

HUNGRY JAX HAS BEEN NAUGHTY: 
Jax has a secret.  Yes, this impeccable home cook has a naughty short cut.  Not even her Elf on a Shelf knows about this one.  Her bad Food Adventure act?  Sometimes she uses American cheese in my mac and cheese.  To top it off, she uses

Jax Mac n Cheese

Jax Mac n Cheese

the Boar’s Head Sharp American Cheese instead of Kraft.  (This is actually a great tip for you cooks out there who love a rich Mac n Cheese.  Hint #2 add maple sausage crumbles into your mac n cheese.)  Ahem .. Dear Santa, I am sorry I have been bad, and if you think I deserve coal in my stocking, I will use it for summer cookouts.

 

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Adopt puppies like me through Miami Valley Pit Crew

CHEF HOUSE HAS BEEN NICE:
Dear Santa, I have been nice.  I would never do anything like those culinary shortcuts, as you know.  If you need a wooden spoon to spank the other two, you can borrow one of mine.  Now to reiterate my Christmas list, let’s go over it again shall we Santa?  To start with, I want a HUGE de-stemming machine, something that can really breakdown the peppers for my sauces.  Also, an endless supply of empty glass bottles would be nice.  And a cleaver, remember? A BIG cleaver. One last thing… how about one more little sweet puppy from the Miami Valley Pit Crew, who rescues local dogs?  (Miami Valley Pit Crew is a great organization that has helped place dozens of dogs into loving homes.  Locally owned, it is a great Dayton area charity to support this holiday season). That’s all, Santa.  (Here is a tip though…  the frozen gnocchi at Trader Joe’s  is a great product if you don’t have time to make your gnocchi from scratch).

 

Have you been naughty or nice this year?  Do you have any shortcut culinary confessions you want to share below?

Please comment and tell us about your naughty Food Adventures!

From all of us at Food Adventures, we with you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a very prosperous New Year.

Have you been naughty ?

Have you been naughty ?

Chef House needs some pepper peelers, Santa !

Chef House needs some pepper peelers, Santa !

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Big Ragu uses Mamma DiSalvos Jarred sauce when he doesnt have enough time for his own sauce

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Chef House has been nice – she wants some more cutlery, Santa

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Jax uses Boars Head instead of Kraft for her Mac n Cheese

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Jax is a whiz in the DLM Culinary Center

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Chef House at a Spicy Olive Cooking Class

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Mac N cheese with Maple Sausage – Hungry Jax made it

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More empty bottles please !

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When it is gonna take hours and you got minutes.. Ragu fakes it

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Manicotti from Ragus Kitchen – he didnt use DiSalvos Sauce this time

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Kitchen Perfection

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A scoop of Hungry Jax Mac N Chese

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Dear Santa – maybe one more play pal for these guys?

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Dear Santa – a pepper processor would be great, thanks !

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Hello .. my name is Big Ragu and this is my manicotti

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Sometimes Ragu is nice …