Food Adventures

Elvis, Green Tomatoes, Burgers, Pies and Cornhole

June 12, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Elvis Looking to Karate Kid Kick the Big Ragu

This Saturday, June 13th get your blue suede shoes and head to Miamisburg’s 5th Annual Rock N Green Tomato Festival. There is gonna be Rock N Roll music all day long. There is gonna be a 5k Walk/Run. There is a Cornhole Tournament with a $250 first prize. Oh, and there is going to be, our favorite… FOOD, including a Green Tomato Pie contest and a burger eating contest!

One of our favorite yearly festivals is the family friendly Rock N Green Tomato Festival held in Miamisburg. A laid back atmosphere with plenty of vendors and activities, featuring great live bands. And as always, admission is FREE !

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— WHEN: The Rock n Green Festival runs Saturday, June 13th from 11am -11pm

— WHERE: The event takes place at Riverfront Park in Miamisburg, which is the field behind Ron’s Pizza in downtown Miamisburg

— Live Rock n Roll All Day Featuring “The Rejects” (America’s favorite kazoo band) and an Elvis impersonator witha 14 piece Las Vegas Style Band.

— Cornhole Tournament (signup here), and a 10am 5k Walk / Run (signup here)

— There will be craft vendors and food vendors throughout the park

Green Tomato and Bacon Pizza from Ron’s

— Yours Truly, The FOOD ADVENTURES CREW will be judging the Green Tomato Pie Contest (signup here) and picking out the winners around 5:00pm.

Lots of food to sort through and we are gonna give you the inside scoop on the best eats at the 2015 Rock N Green Tomato festival. Or as we call it our patented MUST EATS!

MUST EATS:

— THE FRIED GREEN TOMATOES: Miamisburg Athletic Boosters have been selling these for years. They are a must eat, and the crispiest, most delicious bites of the festival.

— GREEN TOMATO PIE: You don’t like green tomatoes? Wait a minute, do you like apple pie? Then you will love this stuff. Keep an open mind and don’t go all “little emperor” on us, and we bet you like it. The ladies selling these pies do a terrific job, so grab a piece of the cinnamon goodness, sit next to Elvis and enjoy.

Fried Green Tomatoes – a MUST EAT !

— HAMBURGER WAGON: Get the legend between 2 buns here. It’s with a pickle, salt, pepper and onion because this icon “dont need no stinkin’ condiments.” There is also a Hamburger Wagon Burger eating contest that usually takes place around 2pm.

— RON’S GREEN TOMATO AND BACON PIZZA: One of the staples at the festival, and a fun treat for kids. Pizza never looked so colorful. The soft tomatoes and the bacon make for the perfect texture and crunch.

— RON’S BACON and GREEN TOMATO SANDWICHES: New to the festival this year ! Call it the festival version of a BLT, and a MUST EAT ! Another magical creation from Ron’s Pizza.

— WALT’S GREEN TOMATO SALSA: Special batches made just for the Rock N Green Tomato festival. This salsa is packed with flavor and of course, green tomatoes. Yet another great salsa option with Walt’s signature taste and recipe !

There is so much more food to try including food trucks and vendors, so explore the grounds and your taste boundaries!

Don’t “no show” this festival ! Instead, hike around the grounds and enjoy the food and the music. Heck, toss a few cornhole bags while you are there.

This festival packs in more food and fun than most. One of the most welcoming, inviting festival atmospheres it is great for the whole family. Pay homage to the Green Tomato, this Saturday ! It promises to be one heck of a FOOD ADVENTURE !

For more FOOD ADVENTURES click HERE to follow us on FACEBOOOK or follow us on TWITTER @food_adv by clicking here.

Walt’s Special Series of Green Tomato Salsa !

105 Years in the making, the HAMBURGER WAGON BURGERS !!

Toxic Brew to Debut Grapefruit IPA at Night Market

June 11, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Toxic Brewery Unveils the Grapefruit Yoga IPA at the Night Market this Friday June 12th

We have EXCLUSIVE scoop on an event Friday night. The secret is now out!

Toxic Brew Company will be at this Friday’s Night Market event at the Yellow Cab Building. The big news is that for the first time, they will be debuting a GRAPEFRUIT version of their PRACTICE YOGA IPA. A session-able IPA, the beer has nice balance of bitter and hoppy flavors. The grapefruit infusion brings on a muted, exotic finish. What a better, refreshing drink on a hot summer evening. Fruity, hoppy flavors infused into the signature taste of a Toxic Brew. This is a perfect compliment to the local vendors that will be at the Night Market selling local crafts and foodstuffs.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The Night Market is Friday Night, June 12 from 5pm-10pm

— The Event will be held at 700 E. Fourth Street, Downtown Dayton

— This Friday’s Night Market will be the biggest one yet. This is largest list of vendors to date. Our own Chef House is leading the local brigade with other Night Market organizers.

Some of our favorite local vendors to get our Food Adventures on with, are these MUST EATS:

MUST EATS:

Caramel Cravings – get some at Night Market

BEEF JERKY from SIMPLE MAN FOODS – terrific beef jerky out of Columbus with the perfect spiciness.

THE CARAMEL CORN FROM CARAMEL CRAVINGS– Big Ragu ate an entire bag of caramel corn at the last Night Market – lose yourself in it too

THE MILK at STARDANCER CREAMERY – We bought a gallon of this milk, and it is like nothing you have ever tasted. Creamy and wholesome from happy cows!

VANILLA EXTRACT at CHEF JC’s EXTRACTS – Big Ragu made cannoli dip with the vanilla extract last month and it was a smashing success

COOKIES AND CREAM POPS from SWEET P’s ICE POPS – Hot day, cold treats – who can resist their flavors?

SPRING VEGETABLE SOUP MIX from SPICE PARADISE – Friendly vendor with delicious items. Make sure you load up on them!

THE BRAIN MENDER JUICE at THE SHAKERY JUICE BAR – Made with carrot, beet, lemon, celery and cucumber is a wake up call in a glass.

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES at STREET SWEETS – Some of the best oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies in the land ! We ate a bunch and shared them too!

TOMATILLO-SERRANO SRIRACHA SALT from HOUSEMADE : Ok we are biased. Well, we probably are addicted. You all know about Chef House’s Sriracha Sauce and her Hot Honey sauce, but those new salt rubs are the latest rage. They are perfect for baking chicken or seasoning grilled veggies.

Besides the great vendors, both Habitat for Humanity and Gem City Roller Girls are rumored to be attending.

And did we mention ..LOCAL BEER ? We just scratched the surface on the various vendors, that will be there.

To see for yourself, make sure you start the weekend out right by buying local on Friday night. Shop at the Night Market, with a pint of Grapefruit Yoga IPA from Toxic Brewing Company in your hand.

Want more scoop are MUST EATS in the Dayton area? Then follow FOOD ADVENTURES on Instagram HERE and like us on FACEBOOK HERE

Infused Vanilla Extracts from Chef JC’s

Zesty Ranch Early Favorite for McDonald’s Shakin’ Flavor

June 10, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Chipotle BBQ Dusted McNuggets. Dip them in BBQ sauce

The feedback is in from the Shakin’ Flavor event at the Wilmington Pike McDonald’s last Monday. The VIP guests at the Food Adventure were given Mcdonald’s swag and asked to test the flavors for themselves. We found patrons loved all three flavors CHIPOTLE BBQ, GARLIC PARMESAN, and ZESTY RANCH. It seemed the favorite this night was Zesty Ranch.

DID YOU KNOW?

Fast Food executives have long known that the Dayton area is much more inclined to give new fast food products an initial try. Much more than the conservative tastebuds of Cincinnati or even Columbus. That is why in Dayton, we see many test products here before they go national. In other words, Dayton is an open minded, foodie town full of feed back (applaud yourselves).

HERE’S THE SKINNY on SHAKIN’ FLAVORS:

— McDonald’s new Shakin’ Flavor product is a free packet of seasonings that will be an option with any Chicken McNugget order or large French Fry order. Your choice of flavor is CHIPOTLE BBQ, GARLIC PARMESAN, or ZESTY RANCH

— A extra “shakin” bag is given to the customer and a powdered packet, and the rest is simple. Dump the fries or McNuggets into the bag, and then the seasoning. Close the bag and shake it like a pom-pom. The result is pretty evenly seasoned fries or nuggets. For more even results, after shaking, we suggest laying the bag flat and tearing open rather than dumping the food out of the bag.

This is a great distraction for kids. Hungry Jax found her children caught up in the excitement, and loved it as much as the yogurt in the kid’s meal.

Kids love the new Shakin Flavors and love to “Shake it Up”

The Big Ragu loved the Chipotle BBQ and Garlic Parmesan. It brought a new dimension to the nuggets and fries

MUST EATS:

Experiment with your own tastes, but we found a couple faves’ you gotta try.

— CHIPOTLE BBQ NUGGETS DIPPED IN BBQ SAUCE

— ZESTY RANCH FRENCH FRIES

— GARLIC PARMESAN NUGGETS DIPPED IN RANCH SAUCE

Get to select Golden Arches and shake things up. Not every McDonald’s has them, but they are worth a try. They bake ’em, you shake ’em, your flavor, make sure you savor !

Peace out to Ronald McDonald and the crew for their hospitality and the revolving videos showing how nuggets and burgers are made.

Want to see how a FOOD ADVENTURE is made? The follow The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House on Facebook by clicking here.

Zesty Ranch French Fries

100,00 People Expecting a Berry Good Time

June 4, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Strawberry Festival Showcases Many Recipes for the Good Ole’ Strawberry !

This weekend kicks off the popular Strawberry Festival in Troy. Crowds of over 100,000 are expected at the event which will feature over 70 food vendors. Sort through the choices with our Food Adventure’s MUST EAT items.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The 39th Annual, Troy Strawberry Festival kicks off Saturday, June 6 from 10am-8pm and closes out Sunday, June 7 from 10am-6pm

— Most booths are fund raisers for local charitable groups, so buy often and support local causes !

— Lots of walking as the Festival stretches from Downtown Troy, across the levee to the Troy High School Football Stadium

— Other fun attractions include a Strawberry eating contest, Live bands, A Big Wheel Race, and a Sunday morning 10k run.

Sorting through the food items, Food Adventures came up with our 3 favorite MUST EATS of the festival

MUST EATS:

— STRAWBERRY SALSA: Deliciously hot and sumptuously sweet. This stuff is great with tortilla chips. Want a Food Adventure? Try it over vanilla ice cream ! Hungry Jax says this is the best food item at the festival. Even better it is a charitable product, which promotes college scholarships for Troy Students. Buy the salsa year round HERE!

Trying to Walk and Eat Strawberry Donuts at the Same Time

— FULTON FARM’S FRESH STRAWBERRIES: Is there anything as good as freshly picked strawberries from a local farm? Good munching just plain while on the go. Grab a bunch and bring them home for a rendezvous with whipped cream, chocolate or make some killer smoothie shakes.

— STRAWBERRY DONUTS: Fluffy, flaky and slightly crispy, these are the iconic donuts that built a tradition. We know, you have to wait in the line. So, buy a bunch, as they support the Troy Band Boosters. Take a lot home. Why? Because these go great with a glass of milk and you can bribe your friends with them.

Join the crowd this weekend in Troy, and see why thousands flock to be a part of this festival. It promises to be a berry good time for all!

For more good times and good food spots, join Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax on our insatiable quest for great Dayton food. “LIKE” FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE

Fresh Strawberries from Fulton Farms in Troy, Ohio

McDonald’s Introduces “Shakin’ Flavors” + Ticket Giveaway

May 31, 2015 By Dayton937 18 Comments

Win a Ticket to the Shakin Flavor Event June 8th, by commenting below !

Mcdonald’s is launching their new “Shakin Flavor” option for French Fries and Chicken Nuggets. The Food Adventures Crew is helping them introduce the new product by hosting a promo.

Monday, June 8^th, McDonald’s located at 6222 Wilmington Pike will host a Shakin’ Flavor Tasting Event. The event is invite-only and will allow fast foodies to learn, make, and enjoy their own Shakin’ Flavor McNuggets & Fries. The 3 flavor options being introduced are ZESTY RANCH, GARLIC PARMESAN, and CHIPOTLE BBQ

There will be giveaways. Oh yeah baby… attendees will also leave with McDonald’s swag and Arch Cards to return to McDonald’s and enjoy a meal on their own. We have always wanted to use the word “swag.” Thank you, Ronald.

As part of the McDonald’s partnership, Food Adventures and Dayton Most Metro are giving away 10 tickets to the Shakin’ Flavor event. To have a chance at being a winner, please comment on the article below. Winners will be chosen and notified FRIDAY JUNE 5th. Food Adventures will post the winners on their Facebook page (click here to see) as well.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

McDonald’s new “Shakin Flavors” will be available for McNuggets and Fries

WHAT: NEW McDonald’s “Shakin’ Flavor” Tasting Event

WHEN: Invite Only event is Monday, June 8, 4:30 pm – 6:30pm

WHERE: McDonald’s Sugarcreek – 6222 Wilmington Pike

WHAT ELSE: We have 10 tickets to this event. For a chance to win one of them, please comment on the story below.

NEW SHAKIN FLAVORS: ZESTY RANCH, GARLIC PARMESAN, and CHIPOTLE BBQ

Winners will get a chance to sample all of the flavors and choose their own “Shakin Flavor” meal combination. If “The Hamburglar” comes by, we will shake him up.

Many of us drop by McDonald’s drive thru from time to time for a fries fix or a McNugget munch. Now is your chance for a free Food Adventure under the golden arches.

Comment below for a shot to join us, and GOOD LUCK !

Comment below to “Shake up your tastebuds !” We eat it all at Food Adventures, no rules !

5th Street Brewpub Kicks Off Summer

May 30, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

SUMMER KICKOFF PARTY, JUNE 1st from 6pm – close

Fifth Street Brewpub will be hosting a charity event this Monday, June 1st from 6pm – close. Dayton Most Metro, Dayton Dining and Food Adventures are partnering with the brew pub for this special night, benefiting the House of Bread. The House of Bread is a community kitchen that serves meals 7 days a week to local residents in need.

Our resident foodies, The Food Adventures Crew will be guest bartenders. Chef House, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu will be pouring from the 12 draft choices all night and earning your tips for the charity. (Bottled beer, soft drinks, wine and liquor available too).

The event will also feature the unveiling of new menu items! A percentage of food sales will be donated to the House of Bread.

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE MUST EAT AND DRINK EVENT !

WHAT: FIFTH STREET BREWPUB SUMMER KICKOFF PARTY

WHERE: Fifth Street Brew Pub, 1600 E Fifth Street Dayton, OH 45403

WHEN: MONDAY NIGHT, JUNE 1st, 6pm – close

WHY: To enjoy good local food and beer and benefit the House of Bread Charity through tips and a percentage of food sales

WHAT ELSE: New Menu items and see where new seating construction is beginning

— BUFFALO CHICKEN NACHOS: Tortillas with braised chicken, buffalo cream cheese sauce, corn, black bean relish, and melted cheddar cheese.

— SOUTHWEST EGG ROLLS: Three traditional egg rolls filled with chicken, corn, black beans, and queso. Served with creamy jalapeño sauce made in house.

— BBQ RANCH CHICKEN SALAD: Mixed greens, corn, black bean salsa, scallions, tomato, cheddar cheese, tortilla strips, and chicken topped with a Ranch & BBQ sauce.

A percentage of food sales will be donated to House of Bread, a local charity

— THE FIFTH STREET STEAKHOUSE SANDWICH: Sliced roast beef & caramelized onions smothered in creamy Alfredo sauce and melted Gouda cheese. Served on a toasted roll, aus jus sauce is available by request (yes, get some).

EVEN MORE: 12 beers will be on tap, including our 6pm tapping of “RAGING BITCH IPA” from FLYING DOG BREWERY with $1 off those pints !!

Click HERE for the full list of beers on tap (we will add Raging Bitch IPA to the list 6pm Monday)

Dont like beer? Soft Drinks, wine, and liquor are also available at the brewpub !

The Food Adventures Crew will also be drawing winners for door prizes and giveaways including pint glasses, t-shirts and a $25 gift card to the 5th Street Brew Pub !

Please come out and sit at the bar, or the dining room, or the outside bier garten, which may have a bon fire ! What better way to support a local food pantry than this Summer Kickoff Party?

For more fun events like this and killer food photos of eateries you never knew about, follow FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE

The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax, and Chef House from Food Adventures will be guest bartenders, giving their tips to The House of Bread charity

The Last Round Up – Dayton Loses a Good Man

May 28, 2015 By Dayton937 3 Comments

A Chef’s Coat Hangs in the Longhorn Steakhouse Moraine Kitchen

A chefs coat hangs on a hook in the kitchen area. A somber mood is felt in the air. Last week, one of Dayton’s most humble community supporters was lost unexpectedly. Bob Medlin, manager of Moraine’s Longhorn Steakhouse passed away. He left a legacy of helping others in the Miami Valley who were less fortunate than him. Last night was Bob’s visitation/funeral and as the crowds came to pay their respects, the one theme was Bob’s giving ways. He had a way of making you think you were his best friend. Bob Medlin was everybody’s best friend.

MUST KNOW THINGS ABOUT BOB MEDLIN:

— He loved his family. Just 2 weeks ago, we saw him in Frisch’s with his kids. He always talked about his wife and children with the utmost regard. He was a family man, and he loved them very much.

— Bob was humble. He did not like to toot his own horn about his charity work. Food Adventures featured Bob in an article on Dayton Most Metro last year (read it here). It was like pulling teeth to get him to tell us about all of the organizations he had helped. But his staff helped us compile the list for the feature story. We were humbled to hear that the article was read at the National Longhorn Steakhouse Convention and that Bob was presented with a National Humanitarian Award.

— No matter how busy he was, he always stopped and listened to people’s problems or requests for donations.

— Bob used his position at Longhorn Steakhouse to serve delicious food, and help others in the community. Bob was a selfless man, who put a great support staff around him that believed in community involvement, and helped him execute that plan. His staff volunteered countless unpaid hours to help causes special to them. The imprint on the Miami Valley was tremendous. We have never seen an entire staff more dedicated to helping the Dayton area.

— He used his short time on this earth to make a difference. In his 38 years, he volunteered his own hours, his own money, and with help of Longhorn Steakhouse and the staff, he affected the lives of many for the better.

— Some of the charities Bob, Longhorn Steakhouse, and his staff helped on a regular basis include:

March of Dimes Walk for Babies.

Pancake breakfasts that supported the Sandy Hook Elementary victims, and the Mobley Family who endured terrible losses in a local fire.

AMBUCS Chili cookoff,

Food For Kids (Vandalia)

Dayton Hospice Walk

Bob Medlin (b.1977 – d.2015) will be deeply missed

Snuggled Up Inc. – bedding for Dayton area kids

The Greater Dayton Apartment Association’s Rent Foundation – prevents homelessness in Dayton, by paying rent for families in crisis.

Shoes for the Shoeless and Brief Blessings – helping Dayton area children with basic needs such as shoes and underwear

Ronald McDonald House of Dayton – Staff volunteered to rake leaves, clean up yard

Dayton Circles – dedicated to ending poverty

Back2Back Ministries – Helping local orphans and abandoned children

Kiser Elementary– helping educate refugee children who have settled in Dayton.

Christ’s Church of Bellbrook’s – various charity programs

Relay for Life Charities from American Cancer Society–

The staff at Longhorn promises to continue Bob’s vision and charitable involvement in the community. We talked with Josh Ruxer, one of the managers at Longhorn, and although the employees are recovering from their loss, they are more committed than ever to local charity benefits.

It is at this point in the article where we suggest that a little karma takes place. Bob left behind a wife and 2 small children. His unexpected passing will no doubt put a financial burden on his family. Please consider helping a family, that helped so many others.

Please send donations, and checks made out to the Bob Medlin Family, addressed to Longhorn Steakhouse Moraine , 1921 W Dorothy Ln. Moraine, OH 45439

In his family’s time of need, Food Adventures remembers a quote from Bob, who said “It just proves we all win together when we do the right things.”

Hungry Jax, Chef House, The Big Ragu, Lisa Grigsby and the whole Dayton Most Metro team give our condolences to the Medlin family. May his memories of giving and happiness override your sadness at this time.

Jordan and Bob

Bob laughs at the Big Ragu who he got sweaty with his hot chili !

Pancake Benefit

Bob brought this cake to March of Dimes event

Bob and his managers

Bob and Jordan

March of Dimes Walk for Babaies

Longhorn Steakhouse Moraine

Another charity event

March of Dimes Charity

They care

Bob and the Moraine Longhorn crew

Bob made the best chili in 2014’s AMBUCS cookoff

Local Chef to Appear on Food Network’s “Grocery Games”

May 24, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Chef Aimee Saling will be on Food Network’s “Grocery Games” with Guy Fieri. Her episode will air Sunday May 24th at 8pm

A local chef is being featured on an episode of Guy Fieri’s Grocery Games, a popular evening show on TV’s Food Network.

Chef Aimee Saling, a Dayton native, will be on episode that airs on Sunday May 24th at 8pm.

The show challenges contestants to conjure up recipes using a limited number of grocery store items. It is a cooking test of skills, wits, and speed.

Aimee, who currently is the Executive Chef at Piccolo Wine Room in Glendale, is tight lipped about the episode, but has a picture of her and Guy Fieri in the restaurant. The photo was taken during a break in filming. Chef Saling says Guy was very nice and personable, and even nicknamed her “Dayton.”

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON CHEF AIMEE SALING:

— Chef Saling has an extensive resume, having worked in almost every facet of the kitchen for the last 15 years.

— There is no set menu at Piccolo Wine Room, because Aimee’s menu is a rotating menu which is different every night. The menu is announced approximately 6 pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, and usually contains 4 to 5 entree choices. Menu items are also posted on Piccolo’s Facebook Page. Everything is made from scratch with seasonal ingredients.

— Her cooking style can be described as an evolving, fresh, new and artistic plates. Aimee’s meals have distinctive French, Asian, Latin, Italian, and California influences.

Jicama Duck Tacos were on the menu this weekend

— One of the secrets to her success is her sous chef at Piccolo, her husband Neal. A full time Acquisitions Manager, Neal takes time from his career to help Aimee cook on the weekends.

— Aimee juggles a catering business and private chef duties as well. Chef Saling’s catering business is called Redbox Culinary Design. One of her recent clients included the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team and their related minor league teams.

The Food Adventures Crew was lucky enough to visit Piccolo Wine Room last weekend to try Chef Saling’s revolving menu. Our entrees of Jicama Duck Tacos, Chicken Carbonara and Filet Mignon Sliders were excellent. It is a great place for a gourmet Food Adventure. The patio and wine room atmosphere is a perfect place for a romantic date, or friends night out. PS.. Dogs are welcome !

We wish Chef Saling the best of luck on “Grocery Games.” Chef House, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu look forward to visiting her again soon for another outstanding dinner.

Please browse our photo gallery here for some fantastic photos of Chef Saling, her culinary creations, and Piccolo Wine Room’s amenities.

Love to hear about local eateries? Want more killer photos and inside scoop on Dayton’s food scene? Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here. We are also on Instagram at #dayton_foodies

The Top 35 Burgers of Dayton

May 22, 2015 By Dayton937 26 Comments

Two of the 20 ounce Hog Burgers from Voltzy’s. Home of Dayton’s Best Hamburger !

According to our good friends at Dayton Dining, May 28th is National Hamburger Day. Today, we celebrate with this timely article.

THIS IS THE UNDENIABLE TOP 35 BURGERS in DAYTON, OHIO. Some are well known icons, some are not. What they all have in common is incredible taste and freshness. Each is a burger in a class of its own.

For years, Food Adventures has scoured the Miami Valley, trying different places over and over again to make sure we get the definitive list. We have eaten each burger on this list at least twice to ensure placement, accuracy of ranking and consistent quality. Our hard work and chewing has paid off.

Now, without further delay, Chef House, Hungry Jax and the Big Ragu present, in order, the best 35 burgers of Dayton, Ohio.

The 10 ounce Cheeseburger from Slyder’s Tavern. “The Pride of Belmont”

THE BEST 35 BURGERS in DAYTON, OHIO

1) ” THE CHEESEBURGER ” and ” THE HOG BURGER ” at VOLTZY’S ROOT BEER STANDE: Fresh hamburgers and fresher service. Dayton’s #1 burger is in a shack, but at least they have bathrooms. We are amazed at how many people still have not tried this place. The owner Rick Volz, is known for his grumpy, yet playful attitude with the customers. If you go in the wrong door, forget to call in your order, or deviate from the regular toppings, you will feel Voltzy’s wrath. It is his “schtick,” similar to the Seinfield show’s “soup nazi.” Enduring the insults is worth it for a taste of his cheeseburgers. Voltzy grills each and every hamburger himself, and he does it to perfection. The 2 burgers here that are MUST EATS are the CHEESEBURGERS ,which are sliders and priced at 10 for $12. The other burger is THE HOG, a 20 ounce mammoth burger that he named after his ex wife. One of his sleepers is the Betty Ann Burger, named after his mom.

The Secret: His 80/20 chuck mix is ground fresh every morning. His burgers are steam grilled with onions and cheese, and topped with sweet heat mustard.

The Tank Burger with Cheese, a Cult Classic in Dayton !

2) ” THE 10 OUNCE CHEESEBURGER ” at SLYDERS TAVERN: Make sure you get the 10 ounce burger for the full experience. This is a ‘burger lovers burger,’ with a fresh taste. You get it all, lots of toppings and you can taste the seasoned meat. If you don’t get a handle on the burger early, it can get a little messy. A burger with a huge underground following, and comes in at #2. Make sure you check out “The Pride of Belmont” on Watervliet Rd.

The Secret: They use Dot’s Market fresh 80/20 Ground Chuck. “Grandma’s old iron cast stove and steel grill” in the back is also a key to cooking the burgers perfectly.

3) ” THE TANK BURGER WITH CHEESE ” at TANK’S BAR & GRILL: One of Dayton’s Iconic Dayton Burgers. It is as simple as that. This burger has a cult following of thousands and thousands of fans. People come from all over to this spot on Wayne Avenue to try the legendary burgers. Sink your teeth into one of these big, meaty legends !

The Secret: The owner Dan ” Tank” Tankersley says it himself..”Fresh, fresh, fresh… and the quality helps too.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

The "Lark Burger" from Meadowlark has a unique and distinctive flavor

The “Lark Burger” from Meadowlark has a unique and distinct flavor

4) ” THE CHEESEBURGER ” at THE PINE CLUB: You think they have great steaks? You should try their Cheeseburgers! This iconic restaurant on Brown Street, is the most unlikely place to find a good burger. But it makes sense, doesn’t it? Some of the best quality meat in town in here.. right? It’s so good that they sell their raw hamburger meat in 5 pound bags “to go.”

The Secret: They grind the hamburger meat daily, at the same time that the butchers are carving the most famous steaks in Dayton. Rumor has it that they add a little bit of ground lamb to their burgers.

5) ” THE LARK BURGER ” at THE MEADOWLARK RESTAURANT: Served on a sturdy kaiser roll with white cheddar, this is one of the juiciest burgers we have ever eaten. Trust us, and order one of these burgers. It is a sophisticated, delicious and unique tasting burger, and unlike any other on this list.

The Secret: Fresh Rosemary spice is worked into the all-natural, Ohio Beef patties, which are also seasoned in wine. The burger is as aromatic as it is delicious.

The “Jerk Burger” at Ye Olde Trail Tavern in Yellow Springs has Jerk Seasonings and Jalapenos

6) ” THE JERK BURGER ” at YE OLDE TRAIL TAVERN: Talk about a Food Adventure in a bun, this burger has a lot going on. The cheese topped jalapenos bring the burn, the beef brings the flavor, and the jerk sauce is the icing on the cake. A burger so unique, we have never had anything like it. This one is #6 with a bullet !

The Secret: They tout that they have their own special “beef blend” for their burgers. This and the inventiveness of the jerk sauce on the burger are the secret.

7) ” THE ONION STRAW BURGER ” at THE HORSELESS BUGGY EATERY: They won 3rd place in the nation for food truck’s with the best burger. We love them for the size of this burger. The presentation of this hefty burger is usually met with “ooohs and ahhs,” from people standing around at food truck rallies.

The Secret: The burger is pattied fresh daily with special seasonings. The onion straws are made fresh to order, on a bakery style Kaiser roll. These onion straws are that crunch that puts it over the top.

The Onion Straw Burger from The Horseless Buggy Eatery, a Food Truck

8) ” THE VOSS BURGER ” at O’LEARY’S PUB & GRUB: Two hand smashed patties totaling 2/3 pound of meat, with cole slaw and any other of your typical toppings. A nice Kaiser roll with a long toothpick holds it all together. This burger is messy but so delicious. One of the best burgers we have ever eaten, but get it with cheese !

The Secret: The burgers are ground daily at Zink’s Meat Market less than a block away. The high quality and fresh 80/20 ground chuck, catapult this burger onto our list.

9) ” THE BOURBON BURGER ” at BRIXX ICE CO.: A huge hamburger, that even feels warm through the bun. With lots of toppings, it is surprising, but the bourbon sauce is still very noticeable. There is no better atmosphere to enjoy a burger than inside this old building, or on the patio overlooking the Dragon’s stadium. This burger is simply phenomenal.

The Secret: It’s all in the bourbon sauce. It haunts your every bite, in a good way, letting you know “I’m still here.”

10) ” THE MOWHAWK BURGER ” at MOHAWK FREESTYLE GRILL (FOOD TRUCK): A huge burger on wheels. Chef Aaron serves up some of the best burgers in Dayton. They have a distinct taste. Truly a delicious burger with great toppings. Make sure you grab one of these, when his food truck is in town. You can thank us later.

The Secret: He uses fresh ground ribeye meat. The result is a big, juicy, delicious burger. It is as simple as that.

“The Voss Burger” from O’Leary’s Pub in Centerville

11) ” THE GOAT BURGER ” at LUCKY’S TAPROOM: A nice, filling burger with a ton of flavor. It is made of local, Dayton beef, and a pile of toppings. Unhinge your jaw and bite into a serious burger. Andrew Trick and his staff do this up right!

The Secret: The beef is from Keener Farms, which produce locally grain fed beef. The freshness is evident in every bite.

12) ” THE TASTY BURGER ” at THE HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE: Like a “Big Boy” sandwich, only better. It is juicy, tasty and filling. This is one of the lesser know burgers in town, with the biggest flavor. Every bite is like music to your mouth.

The Secret: The greasy grill of the Hasty Tasty Pancake House, seasons the burgers perfectly. The bun and tartar sauce on your tongue, seals the deal, and makes it a MUST EAT.

13) ” THE STICKY BURGER ” at ARCHER’S TAVERN: This unique burger is another MUST EAT. It is the #1 selling signature burger on their menu. Part-owner Dan Apolito says in his 5 years at Archer’s, he knows of only 2 people that tried it and didn’t like it. If you’re thinking about it, go for it! Peanut butter as a topping makes it a Food Adventure for sure !

CARVER’S CHEESEBURGER

The Secret: Peanut Butter, Bacon, & Pepper Jack Cheese give it a hot, sweet almost Thai peanut taste. They suggest you order it with no lettuce , no tomato, no onion or pickles

14) ” THE CHEESEBURGER ” at CARVER’S STEAKS & CHOPS: This burger is only available at the bar or “to go.” It is not on the regular menu, so this burger is one of the best kept secrets in town. A deliciously seasoned burger with all the ‘fixins.’ The weck style dinner bun makes it easy to eat.

The Secret: They use steak scraps to make the burgers. The burger is also served with carmelized onions and a housmade A1 aioli sauce.

15) “THE THREE CHEESE BACON BURGER” at ONE EYED JACKS: Provolone, Swiss and Cheddar cheese adorn this burger , as do 2 big pieces of bacon. This is one of the best burgers we tried, and the flavor is one-of-a-kind. It is one of those burgers that when you take a bite, you say with a full mouth “oh my gawwwsh.”

The Secret: When they mix the meat, they add herbs and spices. The result is a very distinct taste of basil and other ingredients. This burger is one of the dark horses on the list.

The “Bourbon Burger” from Brixx Ice Co. is a Food Adventure on a plate

16) ” THE PARAGON STEAKBURGER ” at THE PARAGON SUPPER CLUB: The burger is a modest 6 ounce serving, and a great deal at just $7.50. When you add the bun, tomato, lettuce and onion, it becomes a mouth stretcher on that first bite. We choose to add american cheese, mustard and ketchup to seal the deal. It is even great when ordered “to go.”

The Secret: They grind the trimmings of their filet mignon steaks for the patties of this burger. The result is lean, flavorful magic.

17) ” THE CHEESEBURGER ” at KOWALSKI’S HOTS: Yes, a burger from a hot dog stand made this list, and rightfully so. Fresh meat on a NY style weck bun, with concession style condiment choices where you doctor it up yourself. The $5 price tag is worth every bite, and when the relish, mixed with the weck bun and meat hit your taste buds, we say “goodnight Irene.”

The Secret: He puts a meaty coney sauce on the hamburger. The way the juicy meat soaks into the weck bun is a perfect vessel for delivering this burger to your mouth. We found ourselves dancing while standing and eating it at the cart.

The “Mohawk Burger” from Mohawk Freestyle Grill Food Truck

18) ” THE LARGE, CLASSIC CHEESEBURGER ” at E. O. BURGERS: Located at the Greene, not only is this a great burger place, but their shakes are killer too. Make sure you get the large cheeseburger, take your number, sit down and wait for the main event. Condiment carts at the tables have sauce toppings including A1 and Cholula. It doesn’t matter what you top it with, it is a great burger.

The Secret: They use 100% USDA Prime Beef, and the taste is terrific. Fresh, handmade patties everyday with USDA Prime Beef quality, means consistently good burgers.

19) ” THE CHEESEBURGER” at JIMMIES LADDER 11: This six ounce masterpiece is probably the best deal on our list. The burger, the toppings and the atmopsphere is 100% Dayton. We love it. With so many great items on their menu, it is no surprise that their burgers kick butt too.

The Secret: The burgers are 100% Angus meat, mixed with secret house seasonings. It doesn’t hurt that the burger is served with Mikesells Chips.

The “Goat Burger” from Lucky’s Taproom is a Masterpiece

20) ” THE URBAN BURGER ” at ELSA’S KETTERING SPORTS GRILL: Made famous by the legendary Dayton restaurant owner, Urban Suburban, this burger has been a Miami Valley favorite for decades. The recipe is untouched since Elsa’s Kettering took over, and the result is still magical. Get it with cheese.

The Secret: Fresh meat, never frozen and a pile of toppings. Big eaters with big appetites, this burger is for you.

21) “ THE GROUND BEEF BURGER” from CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: Easy to eat, and absolutely delicious. This burger is as unique as the restaurant that serves it. They pride themselves on organic, all natural burgers with no additives. The proof of that choice is in every bite. The most picturesque burger on our list, it looks like a magazine ad.

The Secret: A bakery quality, multi-grain roll holds the burger together perfectly. It is the handle that carries that non additive beef burger into your mouth, like a valet for your taste buds.

The Large, Classic Cheeseburger from E.O. Burger at the Greene

22) ” THE BISTRO BURGER ” at COCO’S BISTRO: This Angus beef burger is served with bacon, carmelized onions and the most incredible Boursin cheese sauce. One of the more unique burgers on the list, the taste is instantly recognizable.

The Secret: It is all about the creamy, rich, Boursin cheese sauce. The first bite is one of those “wow” moments. The kaiser roll is stellar too. We cant stop saying the word Boursin after eating this… Boursin, Boursin. Booooorr. siiiiine. It’s all about boursin,bout de boursin, no trouble…

23) ” THE BLEU CHEESE STUFFED PEPPERCORN BURGER ” at THE TROLLEY STOP: It is a juicy burger, made with local beef. It is stuffed with bleu cheese. You must stuff it in your mouth. Not a lot of condiments are needed for this special treat. The chef at Trolley Stop has really kicked up their menu, and this is just another example of that.

The Secret: It is made with Keener Beef, a locally raised beef, which gives a very fresh and organic feel to the burger.

The “Ground Beef Burger” from Christopher’s is Delicious & Picture Perfect

24) ” THE BIG NICK BURGER ” at NICK’S RESTAURANT: Xenia natives know this is a great burger. For the others that don’t know, welcome to another place where you can “get the beef!” The Big Nick is a tasty 1/2 pound burger, and the only place in the area where you can get a side of smelts with it. Call it a Xenia Surf and Turf ! We love it !

The Secret: They claim the perfect blend of 80/20 ground chuck. We say they are right! You have to love a burger whose call tag it, “What’s on your Big Nick?”

25) ” THE BLACK JAX AND BLEU BURGER ” at SEA JAX TAVERN: This nice sized burger is served with carmelized onions, pepper jack cheese and crumbles of bleu cheese. Lots of flavor in this one.

The Secret: The burger is “blackened” before the incredible toppings are added. The cajun spices on the meat are a nice touch.

The Hamburger Wagon in Miamisburg has been legendary fro over 100 years !

26) ” THE HAMBURGER ” at THE HAMBURGER WAGON: Any place that people that people stand in line 15 deep in the bitter cold or intense heat, just to get a taste of the burgers, has to be on this list. There is no doubt, this place has a cult following. In fact the “place” is actually a wagon in the street. Since the Great Flood of 1913, the Hamburger Wagon has been an icon in Miamisburg. The burgers are topped only with onion, pickle and salt & pepper. The pride themselves on needing “no stinking condiments.”

The Secret: The burgers are actually a mix of burger and sausage meat. Also, the grilling method of deep frying the burgers, by pressing them down with a spatula, in a large iron skillet gives the hamburgers than one of a kind “crunch” when you bite into them

27) ” THE ITALIAN BURGER ” at BLIND BOB’S: A generous 1/2 pound burger with provolone cheese, marinara sauce and carmelized onions. The atmosphere and quiet fanfare for this burger, makes for a fun experience. Definitely a hamburger not to be overlooked.

The Secret: The burger is “stuffed” with provolone, green peppers and basil. It oozes with every bite. Eat it quick, so it oozes into your mouth and not in your hand.

“The Italian Burger” from Blind Bobs is stuffed with Provolone, Green Peppers and Basil

28) ” THE APPLEWOOD BACON CHEDDAR BURGER ” at BUNKER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL: A nice sized hamburger with bacon and cheddar cheese. You have to pour the BBQ sauce on yourself, since it is served on the side. The result is a smokehouse flavor that is a refreshing twist. This is the only burger on the list that is served with shredded cheese.

The Secret: Fresh Angus beef combined with applewood smoked bacon is the key to this bad boy. It gives a nice maple hint to the burger and shredded cheese.

29) ” THE PUB FRIES BURGER ” at THE DUBLIN PUB: A burger with fries, cheese and bacon crumbles on top. When you combine Dayton’s favorite pub fries and a great burger, you are bound to have a winner. Add the “Dub Pub” atmosphere and you have yourself a Food Adventure escape from reality !

The Secret: The cheesey pub fries topping are what puts this on the list. The burger is good, but the pub cheese fries on top, make it outstanding.

The “Applewood Bacon Cheddar Burger” at Bunker’s in Vandalia

30) ” THE DOUBLE CHEESEBURGER “ at CADILLAC JACKS: A great sports bar atmosphere for one of the best burgers in town. Make sure you get the “double” burger, it is time to play with the adults. Great flavor from the first cheesey bite, to the last.

The Secret: Fresh ground sirloin and ground chuck mix, with tons of cheese. The result is a melt in your mouth, delicious experience.

31) ” THE HAMBURGER ” at GEEZ GRILL and PUB: A solid, great tasting pub burger. This burger is one of the dark horses on our list. “Mama G” hits the mark again with her menu items. Make sure you get some cheese on it

The Secret: The meat is fresh Ground Chuck, pattied daily by hand. And that was all it took in this case.

The Double Cheeseburger from Cadillac Jack’s. Soooo Cheesey !

32) ” THE HALF POUND HAMBURGER ” at GEORGE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT: A diner that is a throwback to the “good ole’ days”. Killer food and good service. Grab a 1/2 pounder at George’s to fill your carnivore cravings. No frills, no dramatic presentation, just a damn fresh and tasty burger in a bun, on a plate.

The Secret: Fresh meat cooked on a flaming grill. The grill is so fierce, you can see it flare up from time to time if you are seated in certain areas of the dining room.

33) ” THE YUMMY BURGER ” from WHITE LOTUS RESTAURANT: A true Dayton dive with a friendly cook / owner. Here your hamburger could be cooked next to some chicken pad thai. The burger is delicious and the prices are cheap. “Yummy burger?” Hell yes it is!

The Secret: The owner will tell you that her “love” that goes into the burger is the secret. But we saw the trick. It is fresh ground meat, with garlic salt and pepper, cooked on that old, seasoned, flat top grill.

34) ” THE MINNESOTA JUICY LUCY ” at ROMER’S BAR & GRILL: This 1/2 pound burger is stuffed with provolone, pepperoni and jalapenos. The result is a tasty hamburger that oozes cheese with every bite from inside the burger. Yet another Food Adventure on a plate, this one takes it to a whole new level of taste.

The Secret: The “inside out burger” mentality of the Juicy Lucy and the unique stuffings of course. The pepperoni and jalapenos give it a salty and sultry burn in every bite.

“The Yummy Burger” from White Lotus

35) ” THE CHEESEBURGER ” at BENJAMIN’S THE BURGER MASTER: A great burger that deserves a spot on our list. The gooey cheese and the meat, it’s the simplest burger on this page. And it simply tastes great. They also have the best BBQ wings in town.

The Secret: The simplicity equals good taste. The burgers are fresh, 100% ground beef, seasoned and topped simply. Sometimes, less is more.

Honorable Mention:

” THE BIG FRICKIN’ BURGER ” at FRICKER’S: This burger is a full pound of beef. The patties are brought in fresh, not frozen. This burger stacks two of the 1/2 pound patties, resulting in a massive burger, and a great frickin’ deal at just $7.99.

The Secret: Cooked over a flaming grill. Great grill marks, and a great taste.

“The Big Frickin’ Burger” at Fricker’s is a pound of meat, flame grilled, for less than 9 bucks

” THE MAID RITE ” at MAID-RITE SANDWICH SHOPPE: They are sweet tasting, tiny, little sloppy joe like sandwiches. We are letting them slide by into the burger category. The small sandwiches are addicting and delicious. There is a HUGE fan following of this restaurant, and many people travel an hour for these little icons. The eatery is located at 125 N. Broadway St in Greenville, Ohio.

The Secret: It is the cooking technique, which is a closely guarded mystery. Some say they add sugar to the meat, others think they steam the meat in Pepsi. We have no idea, we just know we love them.

Honorable Mention Chain Burgers: “The Garbage Burger” from Max N Erma’s, The Big Boy Sandwich, and White Castle Hamburgers. These regional chains along with the Red Robin burgers are MUST EATS. We give a shout out to Five Guys and Smashburger as well… We eat it all, no self contradictions here.

“The Hamburger” at Geez Grill & Pub. A solid entry into the list.

There you have it, that’s our list of the top 35 Burgers in The Miami Valley ! Comment below and give us your beefs, take it easy on our buns…

As you can see, Food Adventures never does anything halfway, and this is no different. Notice, we have no contributed or borrowed stock photos here. All of these pictures are original, because we actually went to the places and ate the burgers at least 2 times each. Yes, multiple visits is what keeps Food Adventures on top of the pack.

Want more of the best foodie spots in Dayton? Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE. Join Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu as they leave no plate unturned.

DID WE LEAVE ANYONE OUT?

IS SOMEONE IN A SPOT THEY SHOULDN’T BE?

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU ! COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS ON OUR “UNDENIABLE LIST” DAYTON’s TOP 20 BURGERS !

Also, check out our photo gallery below.

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Around the World in 30 Bites!

May 13, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The “Petit Fours” at the France booth are delicate bites of heaven

Dayton’s 42 year old, A World A’ Fair, International Festival is set for this upcoming weekend.

Yes, from Friday until Sunday, Daytonians will be showing their heritage spirit through arts, crafts, clothing, dancing and our favorite part… FOOD !

Thirty booths will be set up, each for a different part of the world. The purpose is to educate and to wow the crowds with their individual uniqueness. But we buy tickets for one reason… the chance for a great Food Adventure, where we can eat ourselves around the world in 3o bites. Did we mention there is wine and beer???

Where else can you grab sushi, Puerto Rican rice and beans, haggis, a gyro, french pastries and a cannoli while watching African dancers?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The event takes place at the Dayton Convention Center

Festival Hours:
Friday, May 15, 5:00pm – 11:00pm
Saturday, May 16, 11:00am – 11:00pm
Sunday, May 17, 11:00am – 6:00pm

— Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for children at the door

— Full schedule of dancers and booths can be found at http://www.aworldafair.org/

Travel the world with your tastebuds, without leaving Dayton. Here are some of our favorites..

THE MUST EATS at the World A’Fair festival !!

MUST EATS:

Dollar for Dollar – the best deal, for the flavor is the Greek Gyro

— GYROS at THE GREECE BOOTH: These are the same ones they serve at Greek fest. They also come in chicken gyro and vegetarian, but we prefer the traditional Gyros. Pound for pound, probably the best deal at the festival.

— APPEL FLAPPEN at the NETHERLANDS BOOTH: People wait in lines that wrap around the arena for these powdered, deep fried apple rings. One bite and you will see what all the excitement is about, and you will wish you would have ordered a few more.

— TIRAMISU at the ITALY BOOTH: Coffee like, creamy and dashes of chocolate. This is dessert done right. Try one of these cubes of perfection. So good, it puts you in a trance.

— SAAG PANEER at the INDIA BOOTH: Make sure you get some of this Indian spinach dish and get a piece of Naan Bread too for dipping. A great dish that is satisfying and vegetarian as well.

— PETIT FOURS at the FRANCE BOOTH: Tiny bits of heaven Choose from a nice selection and go to town. Treat yourself, you deserve it after traveling the world.

Grab a cold Heiney at World A’Fair

— THE CREAM PUFFS at the SLOVIC BOOTH: Probably the best single item at the festival. It is delicious and rich like it should be. A generous helping of cream, on a huge crescent puff, this is grand finale to any visit to the World A’ Fair.

— BEERS at the GERMAN, SCOTLAND and IRELAND BOOTHS: Ireland and Germany typically have a couple of authentic beers on draft. These are must drinks. Nothing says World A’fair like a guy in a kilt pouring you a cold one with no underwear,

Here is a start, now you have a road map for the best food in the World. Every year new food items are introduced, so keep your eyes peeled. There will be so much delicious, international food, that you simply wont have the time or the hunger pains to try them all. No worries, the fest is 3 days long !

Want more scoop and great photos of local food events and restaurants? Follow Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Like to tweet? So do we.. check out our Twitter @food_adv

Please browse the gallery below from some of our delicious Food Adventures where we traveled around the world in 30 bites !

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Who was Dougie Apple?

May 1, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Dougie Apple

Sometimes a Daytonian’s story bears repeating.

As you know we go on many fantastic Food Adventures. One you can’t miss is about 2 weeks away.

Friday, May 15th is the Big Brews and Blues Festival. This is a blues festival with a cause. The event raises money for the Dayton Diabetes Association.

It is an amazing event, with Blues Bands, dozens and dozens of Beers to sample, and food vendors. The 2015 event is being held at Riverscape Metropark. It is not only a terrific night, but it is a festival with a purpose. Dougie Apple was a Dayton native who also had a purpose.

In fact, at the festival, a banner typically drapes a booth selling beverages for his foundation. This is where the Food Adventures Crew first learned of his story. If you have attended the festival, you may remember seeing the booth yourself.

Sometimes a person who spends a small amount of time on this earth, has a very big effect on those around them.

May 15th, 2015 – Big Brews & Blues festival for Dayton Diabetes Foundation

Such is the case of Dougie Apple, one of 6 kids who grew up in a Miamisburg, with his 5 sisters. He was boy who at the age of 12 found out that he had diabetes. When he was diagnosed it was a surprise, since there was no one else in his family who had this typically genetic disease.

He was active in sports like soccer, and he loved the Cincinnati Reds. After his diagnosis he decided to attend a camp with other kids battling his diabetes. This camp, called “Camp Ko-Man-She,” changed his life. Dougie continued to visit the camp each year, and it helped him cope with the disease. After his diagnosis as he grew up he took a job at King’s Island. He even worked at a local car wash, to feed his interest in cars. He then decided to work at the camp as a counselor, helping mentor other children with the disease.

Dougie’s journey from camp attendee, to counselor and eventually camp director. He affected literally hundreds of lives for the positive, by comforting kids, and making them forget about their illness.

Meanwhile Dougie was dealing with an illness of his own. He received a kidney transplant and pancreas transplant from a donor family who lost a child named Daniel. The Apple family and Daniel’s family became close, and still are to this day. As Dougie continued to have a positive influence on Dayton area kids with diabetes at camp, his illness unfortunately took an unexpected turn for the worse. On February 3rd, 2012 Dougie Apple succumbed to the diabetes, which he fought so hard to conquer.

At his funeral, his family was overwhelmed by the crowd of young people who made the trip to his funeral. They shared stories about how Dougie helped them get through a tough time in their childhood, or helped them get enough courage to give themselves diabetes shots. He had affected so many lives, and the result was staggering. The family wants to keep Dougie’s intentions alive, so they set up The Dougie Apple Tree Fund, and continue to raise money in his name.

Over the past 3 years, the Dougie Apple Tree Fund has raised approx 5 thousand dollars per year. They donate the funds to the Diabetes of Dayton charity. The request is that some of these monies go to send children to the camp that Dougie attended. It is a chance to help these kids to live a normal existence. If you attend the festival, please stop by the Dougie Apple booth and buy a bottled water or a soft drink can, you will be quenching your thirst and helping quench the desires to find a cure for diabetes.

Blue Bands Throughout The Night

So please, consider attending the

BIG BREWS & BLUES FESTIVAL

Friday night, May 15th from 5-9pm at Riverscape.

Tickets are $30 prepay or $40 at the door.

Besides great blues bands, there will be approximately 70 beers to sample. The Food Adventures Crew is honored to be a part of this event, and hope you will be too.

Come celebrate the lives of those who are fighting diabetes, by helping them find a cure.

This is not an event that lines corporate pockets, it is an event that affects real people in the Dayton area. Make sure you help make a difference as well.

If you would like to donate or learn more about the Dougie Apple Foundation, please send an email to [email protected].

Hope to see you with some Big Brews at the festival ! Below are some photos from previous year’s events, please browse the gallery.

Are you a Dayton Foodie? Then join the over 5,000 foodies in the Miami Valley area following Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !

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It’s A Farmers Market At Night, With Beer!

April 24, 2015 By Dayton937 4 Comments

Local Vendors will light up the “Night Market” Saturday Night

This Saturday the place to be is the Yellow Cab building. Tucked back on fourth street between Garden Station and the Dublin Pub is a community art space that hosts all kinds of events, most notably the Food Truck Rallies, art shows, concerts, movie showings and even farmers markets.

This weekend the Night Market is happening. Night Market is a night time farmers market with craft beer, food trucks and entertainment. This is a fun way to fill your table full of local goods, drink some craft locally brewed beer, grub on some of the best food trucks around and listen to some tunes from DJ Etch. All ages are welcome for this party atmosphere market.

With spring time here our farmers will be selling their veggies. Brickel Creek will be bringing her organic goodness. Flying Mouse will have maple syrup. Homefull will be bringing items from their 150 raised beds.

Look for popcorn, both sweet and spicy from Caramel Cravings, and gluten free baked items from Neighborhood Nest including spicy cheese crackers! Also featured are vanilla extracts, jams and jellies, spice blends, granola, cookies, and cinnamon rolls from Baker’s Vegetable Market & Greenhouse. Baker’s will also have hand pies, sprouts, lettuce and baby vegetable plants, so you can get your own garden started.

HouseMade will have their sriracha, hot honey, salts and rub. Simpleman Beef Jerky will be coming down again from Columbus with their all natural and amazing beef jerky. My Artisano Foods from Cincinnati will be making their first appearance with their gourmet cheeses.

Spices, Veggies, Non Food Items, Beers, and much, much more

There will even be non-food items to look out for. Travis Eads from Oakwood will be selling his handmade items for the kitchen and the home. Ludic Soap will be returning with her amazing smelling handcrafted soaps. Also, Gem City Tee Shirts will have all kinds of Dayton designs on hand.

You will have four food trucks to look forward to for the night. New on the scene is the Drunken Smoker Food Truck featuring Waffles. The Shakery, Fronana and Sweet P’s will also be there.

This event is rain or shine. If this rain passes by for the weekend this event will be held outside. If not there is plenty of space inside for everyone. The hours are from 5-9 pm Saturday the 25^th of April.

Featured breweries for this weekend are Toxic, Yellow Springs and Warped Wing.

This is a perfect, intimate market for those of you who enjoy eating local and buying local. What better way to spend a Saturday evening then at the Night Market? It is a perfect time to create your own local, organic Food Adventure, and celebrate what Ohio has to offer.

Come down to eat, drink, shop and meet some new Dayton peeps!

Check out our photo gallery below for Night Market highlights. For more Dayton food scoop, please “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE! Join the 5,000+ fans following Chef House, Hungry Jax and the Big Ragu !

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The Greatest Donuts in the World + Win a Dozen of Them !

April 16, 2015 By Dayton937 267 Comments

Owner Lisa with a Young Customer

Every glazed must kneel, every jelly must bow…. Dayton, Ohio is home to many things, including the World’s Best Donuts since 1960. Bill’s Donut Shop is no doubt a Miami Valley icon, located at 268 N. Main Street in Centerville. They have won countless local awards, and have been featured nationally in Saveur Magazine, USA Today, and even recently on the Ellen Degeneres Show. We think it is not a big step to proclaim these the “World’s Greatest Donuts.” If you don’t believe it, let the Food Adventures Crew edify you.

***** Want to win a dozen of the WORLD’S GREATEST DONUTS? ***** All you have to do is comment on the story below and one winner will be chosen at random next week (one comment per person please).

Local celebs like ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, WHIO’s Mike Hartsock and University of Dayton legend, Don Donaher have named Bill’s as their favorite. Even national talk show host Phil Donahue, Congressman Mike Turner and singer Chet Atkins have given the donut shop accolades. We have also found many Daytonians who have moved away, always take time to stop at Bill’s Donuts and get their fix. Many who come in form out of town introduce their spouses or kids to the donuts, so the next generation can worship the legend. The shop has a cult following of regulars, some sit at the coffee bar, others in booths, One notable patron Kevin, who is also called “Dewey” is a friendly man who has been a fixture there since the 80’s.

The Pretzel Donut – Click to Enlarge the Flaky Goodness

This place is popular… like grass roots popular. Even without the celeb endorsements. For example, this Saturday Bill’s Donut Shop is hosting the annual Superhero 5k run for A Special Wish Foundation. The 5k had room for 500 runners and it sold out a week in advance. We think the 5k’s “donut after party” had something to do with the sellout.
So, with all the press, popularity and endorsements, why is Food Adventures writing an article on Bill’s Donut Shop? The answer is simple, we dig deeper. We dig into not only which individual donuts are the best of the best, but we ask “WHY?” What is the secret that makes these the most delectable donuts on earth?

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Original owners Bill and Faye Elam opened Bill’s Donuts in 1960. In 1995, they sold the business to two of their children, Lisa and Jim Elam.

— One of the biggest attractions is that the donut shop is open 24 hours a day, except for certain holidays.

— The best donuts in the world run about 80 to 85 cents each. There are 2 different types of donuts the yeast ones (glazed) and the cake donuts, but in recent years they have added some delicious danish, creme horns, muffins and more. All of them live up to the delicious standards of Bill’s, especially the huge chocolate brownies with chocolate icing.

— Also known for their coffee, typically Boston Stoker, they also offer milk, juices and hot chocolates and a mini cappuccino bar.

— The booths are old and tight, the coffee bar seating is definitely a throwback style. Warning – you may find long lines on Saturday and Sunday mornings, but the lines go fast. It is worth it for the magic inside the display cases. Another thing.. we call it one of our “fat kid tricks.” If you have the donuts a day or two later, pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds. It makes them taste brand new again.

The Round Donuts with Chocolate Icing and Cream Filling are Hungry Jax’s Favorite !

— Bill’s Donut Shop is also a huge supporter of local causes. They donate to dozens of charities and have been sponsoring local sports teams for many decades. They have a strong family belief in giving back to the community, which is deeply ingrained in their corporate philosophy.

— The Secret to the “Best Donuts in the World”, according to owner Lisa Elam is in 3 parts:

1) Bill’s uses only the purest, top quality oil to fry their donuts.

2) Top quality sugar and flour go into the donut recipes. Only the best ingredients have been used since 1960.

3) Cooking expertise from decades of experience. There is something to be said for experience and knowledge of workers who have been employed for 20 years or more. They know their craft, they know their industry and have developed a skill and a style. Most of the workers are truly seasoned veterans and expert donut makers overseeing the operation, not someone who has been working there a few months.

We now explore the ultimates in donut world.. which ones are the best? Which ones are the MUST EATS… The Food Adventures Crew has done their homework on this one. The King, Hungry Jax, Chef House and The Big Ragu have literally eaten dozens and dozens of these donuts over the years. Probably enough to fill up Vin Diesel’s car trunk. So here is the result of our years of research….

MUST EATS:

—THE PRETZEL DONUT: A huge pretzel shaped, glazed monster you have to twist to pull apart. Some parts of the donut are gooey and fresh, while other parts have the cooked glazed crust. This is the Big Ragu’s favorite donut of all time. It is a melt in your mouth delight.

—THE CHOCOLATE ICED ROUNDS WITH CREME FILLING: A simple round donut, iced with chocolate icing and injected with light cream.
Hungry Jax points to these as her favorites. The creme texture mixed with the icing and one of a kind Bill’s Donut flavor will put you on Dream Street.

—THE PEANUT BUTTER FILLED LONGJOHNS WITH CHOCOLATE ICING: Chef House’s favorite donut from Bill’s is one of their most sought after. This large rectangle pastry is iced with chocolate and stuffed with peanut butter creme. It’s one of those treats you bight into and say with a full mouth, “are you kidding me?”

—THE BUTTERY TWISTS: Are resident sweets expert, The King, will tell you that this is the best choice in Bill’s display case. A big donut that is buttery glazed and big on taste. Melt in your mouth delicious.

An Apple Crisp Muffin – Better Get Some Milk !

— THE CHOCOLATE GLAZED: WARNING! A glass of milk must be within 3 feet of you when eating these. These devilsfood cake donuts are the cats meow. We could eat a dozen of these ourselves.

— THE PERSIAN WITH NUTS: Huge cinnamon buns with peanut butter icing and crushed peanuts on top. Rich, filling and sinful, what a great way to start a morning.

— THE SOUR CREAM DONUT: It tastes nothing like it sounds. this is an old fashioned style, almost crunchy donut made with a bit of sour cream. The result is the inside is a lightly fluffy, vanilla flavor. The outside is a nice crunchy brown coating with a glaze.

— APPLE CRISP MUFFINS: How did they fit an apple pie into a muffin? This is the dark horse of the whole place and a rare sight. So grab ’em when you can. Thank us later, it will bring tears to your eyes.

Honorable Mention: The Blueberry Donuts are amazing. Also, you cant go wrong with a Jelly Donut with Vanilla Icing or a Powdered Donut filled with Cream. They also have a few donuts that are Custard Filled. The Big Ragu says the custard filled donuts will knock your socks off. There are so many others like the Apple Fritters and the Crullers, which when you say it sounds like you are gurgling salt water. Even the “Doughnut Stix” kick butt.

Again we say, every donut hole must kneel, every Long John must bow. Sprinkles or not, you have now experienced the upper echelon of the breakfast / dessert world. You have experienced the pinnacle of pudding in a glazed bun. You are lucky to live in Dayton, Ohio.. for you have experienced Bill’s Donut’s… The Greatest Donuts in the World.

Want scoop on all of Dayton’s greatest food stops? THEN LIKE FOOD ADVENTURES ON FACEBOOK HERE !

Check out our gallery below and see all the wonderful, magical donuts that Bill’s Donut Shop has to offer !

***** ALSO, DONT FORGET TO COMMENT BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FREE DOZEN DONUTS FROM BILL’S DONUTS !! *****

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All You Can Eat “Sushi Club” Hits Dayton + win free sushi

April 10, 2015 By Dayton937 329 Comments

The Alaska Roll up front, Raw Pepper Tuna and Raw Salmon in the back

Attention sushi lovers, you aren’t gonna believe this. For the first time ever, an all you can eat sushi restaurant has opened in the Gem City.

This special place, called the “Sushi Club” has been open for a couple of weeks in West Carrollton. Now, before you start thinking of the side sushi at a Chinese buffet, let us stop you, because you’re wrong. This place is more like a Brazilian Steakhouse setup, but for sushi. Actually, it is just a sushi restaurant, with an option to pay $16.99, and order sushi rolls until you are full. That’s how it works. And the quality is great !! Your humble Food Adventure Crew have already visited the place a handful of times, and we are hooked!

***Contest*** Want to win a free all you can eat sushi experience???

Comment below on why you should win and one lucky person will be chosen at random and will win dinner with the Food Adventures Crew at the Sushi Club!

Click to enlarge this roll called “Sexy on the Beach”

You certainly don’t have to get the all you can eat option, but it’s the best deal in the place. So get ready to grab some chopsticks, pour some soy sauce and stir in some wasabi. It is time to indulge to your hearts content! Time for your own Japanese Food Adventure !

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The Sushi Club is located at 2098 S. Alex Rd in West Carrollton

— The best deal is the all you can eat sushi rolls, for $16.99, available all day long. There are 47 different sushi rolls for you to choose from. You can order 2 at a time, and the waitress will bring out your order and you can place another order and so on until you are done. The meal is served with salad, soup and an orange for dessert. The salad is an amazing lettuce and mango salad with creamy dressing. Sometimes, edamame is also served on the house.

— If you want to order Ngiri sushi slices or sashimi raw slices, the fee is and additional 25cents per piece. But it is totally worth it to try 4 or so pieces each visit. The raw sushi pieces are fresh and delicious.

— The staff couldn’t be friendlier. They are very helpful, and always willing to explain the menu with a smile.

— Not a sushi fan? No problem! The menu features Hibachi Steak, Chicken, Shrimp and Lobster too !

With so many choices, let’s just say you can’t go wrong. From mango topped to tuna topped, from yellow tail to salmon roe, whatever you like, Sushi Club will deliver a roll that will blow your mind and your mouth!

After trying nearly 40 rolls, we give to you our patented MUST EATS at the Sushi Club !!

MUST EATS:

The Incredible Roll

— THE ALASKA ROLL: Raw salmon, cucumber and avocado . A simple roll, highlighting fresh salmon.

— SPICY YELLOWTAIL ROLL: This roll is a rarity in the sushi world. Raw yellowtail tuna is chopped and mixed with spicy mayo. The result is a creamy, fresh, raw taste.

— SEXY ON THE BEACH ROLL: We don’t know if they meant to name it the drink name and messed up or what. But we don’t care, it’s that good. Spicy yellowtail on the inside, topped with tuna and salmon

— THE INCREDIBLE ROLL: Shrimp Tempura and avacado, topped with spicy crabmeat, eel and sweet chili sauce. A huge blend of flavors in this one promises to become one of your favorites.

— THE TUNA AMAZING ROLL: Crabmeat, cucumber and cream cheese, topped with pepper tuna, eel and spicy mayo. Whoever named this roll, got it right. Its amazingly naughty.

The Fancy Roll

— THE SOUTH ALEX ROLL: A deep fried roll with smoked salmon, avacado and cream cheese. It is topped with scallions, eels sauce and spicy mayo. Very filling, this one will put a dent in your all you can eat plans.

—THE FANCY ROLL: Tuna, Salmon and avacado, topped with whitefish, miso, and spicy mayo sauce. A nice, big mouthful or flavor.

— THE TUNA ROLL: Raw tuna, and avacado, back to the basic melt in our mouth sushi on this one.

Honorable Mention: A couple of items here are worth mentioning because they are good and because we have not seen them in other sushi place before. Try the raw “Pepper Tuna” Nigiri. It’s lightly coated with black pepper. Also try the Fish Tempura roll. We have never seen these before and it’s not bad. Finally, they offer Raw Tilapia sushi. We again have never seen this anywhere before, and it was very much like yellowtail sashimi. We also love the fact that they have a nice sake selection, and we enjoyed a beer we had never seen on draft before, Kirin Ichiban, one of our fave bottled beers since the early 90’s.

Tuna Roll and Tuna Sashimi

Now… about the free sushi..

***** WIN A FREE ALL YOU CAN EAT SUSHI DINNER ! *****

Put a comment in the story below and 1 lucky person will win an all you can eat sushi feast with the Food Adventures Crew. One winner will be chosen at random next week !

If you come to the Sushi Club, you won’t ever have the “I just spent $20 on sushi and I am still hungry” problem. Instead, satisfy your sushi cravings and treat yourself! Tell them the Food Adventures Crew sent you ! You won’t regret giving this place a try. Roll on !

Speaking of rolls. We literally have ordered every sushi roll on the menu, so please check out our gallery below for killer pictures on what to expect.

Also – visit Chef House, The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and The King on Facebook by clicking HERE. 5,000 fans can’t be wrong.

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Brixx Adds New Menu Items in Time for Dragon’s Season

April 2, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

New “Brixx IPA” brewed exclusively by the Dayton Beer Company fro Brixx Ice Co.

A Soft Pretzel as big as a steering wheel? That’s just one of the new “Must Eats” that Brixx Ice Co. has added to their new menu this week, Dont worry, Brixx kept all of your old favorites like the Build your own burger, meatloaf and more. They have just branched out and are experimenting with some new choices, to see if they become favorites.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Owner Chris Bhai and his staff have been in training and are ready with their newest menu.

— Some of these items are so new, they weren’t available for ordering at press time… these specialties were…

The Spicy Chicken Sandwich – Free range chicken breast with spicy sauce, on a kaiser roll

The Hawaiian Chicken – Chicken breast served with a grilled pineapple

Braised Beef Burger – 1/2 pound burger with beef shoulder and gravy on top

Pork Pleaser Burger – 1/2 pounder topped with pulled bbq pork and bacon

Italian Beef Sandwich – with peppers and all

Deep Fried Turkey and Bacon Sandwich – The bacon may be deep fried too

Deep Fried Turkey Hot Shot Sandwich – open faced with the works !

Turkey and Waffles – Brixx’s take on a Southern classic

Food Adventures was however, able to get their mouths on some of the new specialties Brixx is trying out.

We found some delicious choices that are simply, MUST EATS !

Hand Breaded Mac n Cheese Bites, as Big as Baseballs

MUST EATS:

— BRIXX IPA: The first must eat, is a must drink. It is the house IPA, brewed for Brixx exclusively by The Dayton Beer Company. The beer appears milky and cloudy, but tastes true to the form of a mild IPA. In other words it is slightly “hoppy” if you like that groove.

— THE GIANT SOFT PRETZEL: This thing is as big as a steering wheel. It is served with a cold beer cheese made with Dragon’s Milk Beer, which really makes the whole appetizer. It is one of those food items that you can’t stop eating. We could drink the beer cheese dip as a soda.

— MASHED POTATOES and GRAVY SIDE ITEM: New item, but the homemade stuff we have come to expect from Brixx. You won’t see people leaving this side dish on their plate.

— SRIRACHA GINGER BBQ DRAGONS TOES: Whether you get boneless or traditional, this sauce is incredible. You feel the heat up front, then the sweet ginger taste smolders by. Nothing says wings like a mouthful of this flavor. Wow this stuff is good, and packs a small explosion of heat!

Sriracha Ginger BBQ Dragons Toes, Hot and Delicious !

— MAC N CHEESE BITES: These aren’t bites, these are snowball-sized spheres of hand breaded mac n cheese. Leave it to Chris Bhai and Brixx to push the envelope with this sinful menu item. These appetizers are rich, creamy and crunchy all at the same time. This appetizer is our bet to become a fan favorite.

There you have it Food Adventure fans. Now it is your turn to step up to the plate. Whether it’s the new IPA or the new appetizers, Brixx gives you even more reasons to take a swing at their menu with your taste buds. Spring has sprung, and the Brixx’s new menu has begun.

Please check out our gallery below with original photos of the new menu items. No stock or contributed photos here !

Are you a foodie? Want more fun info about dining spots in and around Dayton? Then join the 5,000+ fans who “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE. Don’t forget to check us out each and every week with a feature article here on Dayton Most Metro.

This is Hungry Jax, The King, Chef House and The Big Ragu saying “See ya at the Brixx.”

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Preview of Chuy’s Tex-Mex Restaurant at Austin Landing

March 27, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Chuy’s Tex Mex is coming to Austin Landing in April with Homemade Mexican Food & Sauces with Signature Drinks

High energy music filled the air Thursday night at Austin Landing. Inside a huge party tent, Chuy’s Tex Mex Restaurant was hosting a bash and giving Daytonians their first taste of this Texas based chain.

Chuy’s managers and promoters were in from Austin, Lexington and Cincinnati to host the celebration of the new store. Even the mascot “Chuy the Redfish” was on hand. Raffle tickets were sold and all monies raised went to benefit Dayton Children’s Hospital.

The crowd was spoiled with margaritas. Mexican beers and a few drink samples. Also featured was a full blown nacho bar. This nacho bar featured a house cheese sauce, meat, refried beans and of course the homemade tortilla chips.

Also on the bar was a homemade salsa, an incredible house made guacamole, and a uniquely delicious creamy jalapeno sauce. Of course we topped our nachos with everything, including sliced jalapenos. The crowd ate and drank and learned about the new Tex Mex player in town. We share with you the highlights.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Chuy’s Tex Mex has over 60 restaurants nationwide, with its corporate headquarters in Austin, TX

— Tentative opening date is slated sometime in the 3rd week of April, 2015.

The Preview Party Spoiled Guests with a Deluxe Nacho Bar

— The management told us nothing is frozen here except ice cream and the kids french fries.

— The full menu can be seen HERE, but the preview tent featured a sample of the Nachos they have been serving up for nearly 33 years.

— Restaurant hallmarks include hand rolled tortillas, homemade guacamole, homemade house sauces and fresh lime juice on most dishes. Also big in their philosophy is community involvement.

— Check out Chuy’s signature drink menu HERE

All in all, the bash was a big success. Chuy’s staff kept it simple, fun and inviting. We will be back soon for a full blown Food Adventure. The King, Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax are already scouring the menu for early favorites. Want more FOOD ADVENTURES of the Dayton area? Then “Like” them on Facebook HERE !

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