Food Adventures

Local, Legendary Food Adventures at 2nd Street Market – Part 1

December 13, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Some of the Best of Dayton, all in one place !

How about one building that combines some of the best cooks in Dayton and lines them up along the wall in their own vendor booths? It’s not a dream, it’s reality in downtown Dayton.

This is the first of 2 Food Adventure installments over the next few days, and both cover Dayton’s 2nd Street Market. What a shocker, the first one focuses on FOOD !

The Big Ragu & Crew have become semi-regulars at the market over the past few years. Some of our tastiest excursions have been in this treasure trove of great eats.

Variety is the spice of life, and this is true for the market located on the corner of Webster and 2nd Street. If you have never stopped in, then you haven’t had some for Dayton’s best.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— A great place to grab a bite to eat and a unique place to do some Christmas shopping !!! The official address is 600 E. Second St.

— The market is open 3 days: Thursday & Friday 11am-3pm, and Saturday 8am – 3pm. The great offerings are overwhelming and coming here has become one of our Food Adventure addictions.

— Many vendors offer fresh fruit & vegetables. Others offer freshly baked desserts and breads. You want more? How about cheeses, meats, spices, canned goods and more. There are more local, fresh and organic choices here than anyplace we know of in Dayton.

The best tasting side you never heard of: Sweet Potato Quinoa from Chef Case

MUST EATS:

— THE SMOKED SALMON CREPE at CREPE BOHEME : The Big Ragu will tell you this is the best place in Dayton to get a crepe. Crepe master Sabine combines the smoked salmon with goat cheese, capers and grilled vegetables. It is a symphony in your mouth. Her secret is using the freshest ingredients around and flavor combinations that will knock your socks off. Not a salmon fan? No worries.. choose one of the menu items or “make your own” crepe with various ingredients. Prepare to be blown away.Honorable Mention: The crepe with Nutella, marshmallows and blackberries. All the taste of guilty pleasure with not so much guilt.

— FAMOUS CHICKEN PANINI from THE CHEF CASE : Chef Joe Fish believes that using local ingredients promotes fresh flavor. Here he works some magic with a whole herb grilled chicken breast and Artesian Basil Pesto. The panini is made on fresh bread and pressed, thereby melting provolone and Parmesan cheese into gooey deliciousness. The chef is a Culinary Institute of America graduate and creates some of the best tastes in town. In fact, there are so many delicious menu items here that we have to give honorable mention to two more of them. First, make sure you try a serving of the Sweet Potato Quinoa. It is a healthy, flavorful side dish that not many people know about. Trust us on this ! Lastly the MONTE CRISTO PANINI is a sandwich you need to get your hands on. It is ham, turkey and swiss cheese finished with a pure maple syrup drizzle. Give your taste buds a good value for around 7 bucks.

Peanut Brittle Cupcakes from Purely Sweet Bakery (click to enlarge)

— THE DISTINGUISED DARBY at CHEEKY MEAT PIES: Who doesn’t love tasty meat and spices in a flaky crust? Forget about calories, the taste is worth every mouthful. This original take on New Zealand Street food is gaining a bit of a cult following in the Miami Valley. “The Darby” verison is ground beef mixed with spices for a delicious combo. The meat pies are hand held and made to be mobile. Be careful when taking a bite, they are hot inside ! A friendly staff makes the experience that much more fun. Honorable Mention: The Dirty Bird Meat Pie is a tasty treat and a perfect bite “on the go” at the market. It features chicken and a delicious sauce. We can’t describe these fantastic meat pies, you just gotta try them !

— THE WASABI PEAS at THE SPICE RACK: The Big Ragu can’t help himself. He craves these, and you will too. Dried peas, dipped in wasabi and sold by the box for only 2 bucks. Perfect for snacking at home, but we warn you.. ADDICTIVE ! The spice rack has some many incredible items from Amish butter to incredible spice rubs. Check this place out for some hidden treasures for the foodie in you.

— POLLO GUISADO at AREPAS and CO. : Braised chicken thigh (although we ask for the shredded white meat chicken instead), mixed with tomatoes, red peppers, onions and green beans. All of it is served over rice and plantains. Finally pick from one of various sauce toppings drizzled on top. We pick two (garlic and hot sauce) ! Get a friend to help you lift this plate and eat it. HUGE PORTION !

The best crepes in Dayton are at Crepe Boheme

— THE SHRIMP WITH HOT CHILI SAUCE at BAAN THAI NOI: We are always pleasantly surprised with Baan Thai Noi’s dishes. Our favorite is the Shrimp with Hot Chili Sauce. Two skewers of grilled basil shrimp are served over fried rice with a side of shredded cabbage and a delicious spring roll. The key to this dish is the sauce we choose to top the shrimp. The hot chili sauce is so sweet, with some heat and a whole lot of taste. Don’t knock it til you try it, this one is a sleeper !

Is your mouth watering yet? Well the good news is, the weekend is here and they are open ! Get yourself down there and stroll around the grounds and soon you’ll be tastin’ Dayton.

More Honorable mentions include:

The Cupcakes at Purely Sweet Bakery, The Cabbage Rolls at Kolbs Bakery, The Jumbalaya at All Souped Up, The Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna) at Azra’s, and some good coffee at Caffeine by Carl.

We would be remiss if we didnt mention that their are numerous other fantastic farm vendors with fresh vegetables, honey, fresh maple syrup and organic milk. Check them all out while you are there.

The 2nd Street Market is truly Food Adventure paradise !!

In the market for some more from the “Miami Valley foodies ?” Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE !

Check out some of our best photos yet in the gallery below from our numerous trips to the 2nd Street Market over the years !!!

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Loose Meat: The Mystery of MAID-RITE Sandwiches

December 5, 2013 By Dayton937 5 Comments

Maid-Rites with a Little Kings: Click on photo for full effect

Usually when someone says “loose meat” it has never been a compliment, until now. On the outskirts of the Miami Valley, in the town of Greenville, a legendary burger joint has existed since 1934. It is called Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe.

Over the years it has developed a cult following. People drive miles, and even come from out of state to taste their ‘burgers.’ They aren’t even burgers, they are “loose meat sandwiches” or “Maid Rites.” Why are so many people coming to eat these sandwiches and why are they so good ?? The Big Ragu and Crew set out to solve the mystery.

We have a had a handful of Food Adventures to Maid Rite either after the Darke County fair, or on a whim, or to satisfy an insatiable craving.

Over the years we realized that there are 2 types of people, those that have never tried Maid Rite Hamburgers, and those who have tried it and cant figure out how they make them.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— The main attraction is the maid rite loose meat sandwich. The sweet taste of the meat has developed three major theories of how they are prepared 1) Some think they are steamed in pepsi or coke 2) Some claim they are steamed in beer 3) Others say that sugar is added to the meat before cooking.

A Greenville Icon Since 1934

— The eatery is a small, no frills, brick building located at 125 N. Broadway St. in Greenville, Ohio and worth the trip. Locally owned they claim no relation to the MAID-RITE sandwich shop franchises in Iowa etc…

— Limited menu with 4 sandwich choices which include loose meat, chicken salad, egg salad or ham salad sandwiches. Shakes, sundaes, beer, soft drinks and chips are available too.

— The employees are very protective of the recipe and process of the sandwiches. We were unable to get the secret recipe after badgering the employees and managers. We were threatened with spatulas and told we would be picking shards of Little Kings bottles out of our rumps for a week. Sorry for the letdown, folks.

— For some unknown reason, it is now customary to stick your gum on the outside of the building. Literally thousands of wads of chewed gum have been stuck on every outside wall of the establishment.

— Bathrooms are located in a separate building around back, adding even more uniqueness and oddness to this place. They also have a drive up window for a quick meat fix.

How do they make the meat so sweet ???

MUST EATS:

— THE CHEESE RITE SANDWICH: This is the classic maid rite sandwich with cheese. What is a Maid-Rite Sandwich? Think of it as a sloppy joe but with no sauce. It is served on a soft bun, slapped with meat and toppings, and wrapped tightly in wax paper. The meat has a sweet taste to it. This sandwich is topped with a squirt of mustard, a couple of pickle slices and a slice of cheese. They run about $1.95 and the average person could eat 2 or 3 of them. You can get the Big Jim version which adds ham, but we prefer the original Cheese-Rite. Eating one is a unique experience, and you have to try it. Warning: once you unwrap one, we hold no responsibility for future addiction.

— CHOCOLATE MALT: Creamy, sinful and made just for you. You cant go wrong with this delicious, cool classic.

— LITTLE KINGS CREAM ALE BOTTLES: Oh come on , you gotta make it a full blown Food Adventure and wash it down with a icon from Schoenling Brewery. Ok, wanna be a snob? Then grab a Heineken instead.

— MIKESELLS POTATO CHIPS: No fries in this establishment, so choose your hometown chip instead. They have a nice selection of Dayton’s favorite potato chip. It is a good pairing with the simple, classic sandwich.

Click to enlarge: Partial shot of the Gum Wall outside Maid-Rite

A couple of sidenotes: Make sure you bring cash, because that is the only form of payment they accept. Also, hours are 10am-10pm except Fri and Sat when they stay open until 11pm.

Amazing isn’t it? A formula for success being a squished, sloppy joe like sandwich served in a small diner with people sticking gum to the walls outside. But people come back every day in droves. WHY?? It is the curiously sweet tasting, delicious loose meat sandwiches. The workers feverishly tossing the ground meat, stuffing buns, wrapping it quickly, and tossing across the counter. It is the personality of the place. If you have never visited this spot, make sure you put it on your “Food Adventure hit list.” Maid Rite is one-of-a kind.

Want more One-of-a-Kind foodie fun? Then “like” FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK BY CLICKING HERE !

Lebanon Raceway to Close Saturday, After 65 Years

December 2, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

End of an Era: Lebanon Raceway will close Saturday Dec 7th at midnight

Like many of you saw in our RESTAURANTS CLOSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN ARTICLE, all good things must come to an end. Today, The Big Ragu & Crew add another name to this list .. sort of. Some of our favorite Food Adventures have been at sporting events. It is with sadness that we announce that one such place, Lebanon Raceway, will be closing this Saturday after 65 years of harness horse racing. The reason for the closing is to make way for a new racetrack and casino in Monroe. We are going to miss this place and the years of memories it gave us.

Last week at the track, we said our goodbyes. We savored the sights and the memories. We bought a program and a pen (superstition), and sat in the front row behind the glass, cheering for our horses to come in. It takes some dexterity to hold a beer, hot dog, and program while watching the race and hollering. The crowd was sparse, but enthusiastic. We had some winners, and some losers, but loved every minute of the 13 races that night.

Click to enlarge this must eat: Tenderloin Sandwich

We have placed bets to win, place and show. We even knocked out a daily double or a trifecta here and there. But, to us, the live horse racing was just half of the story. We also loved the cheap food and beer. From must eats like hot dogs and pork tenderloin sandwiches to popcorn and hamburgers, Lebanon Raceway had more than just concession stands. They had some good sporting event eats that became a tradition for us over the past 20 years. The characters that serve the food are also a big part of the experience. The bar area was always interesting, with the bartenders pouring bottled beers into a plastic cup, sometimes two or 3 at a time. Foam? …sometimes, just deal with it…

Opened in 1948, the race track facility is showing its age a little, but there is something special about this place. Maybe it is the sound of the horses whizzing past, or the trumpets before each race. Lebanon Raceway is known as the “cradle of drivers,” having produced some of the best harness racing jockeys in the nation. Their other motto is “pace baby pace,” referring to the trotting horses. This place is full of personality from the announcers to the bet window workers. We wanted to share our Food Adventure memories and let people know that this Friday and Saturday are the final days of live racing at Lebanon.

Yes it is true, this weekend is your last chance to experience Lebanon Raceway, so saddle up and visit this Dayton area icon one last time. Races will be Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 6:30pm. Literally – “down the stretch they come !!” Need directions? CLICK HERE. Want more horsing around with THE BIG RAGU, CHEF HOUSE and HUNGRY JAX? Then ‘like’ FOOD ADVENTURES on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE !

Check out our photos and memories from Lebanon Raceway in our gallery below:

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What a Gas! AMBUCS Chili Cookoff Winners Announced

November 27, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Ladder 11 was the People’s Choice Winner (served with a jalapeno muffin) Click to Enlarge

The people have spoken at the 27th Annual Charity Chili cookoff and Casino Night for AMBUCS. And they were tooting more than their horns the next day!

For the 2nd year in a row, JIMMIES LADDER 11 was the people’s choice for best chili. BUT NOT SO FAST MY FRIENDS ….. THE FOOD ADVENTURES CREW with THE BIG RAGU have their takes on the chili contest and it may surprise you.

Your humble Food Adventurers were asked to be special celebrity guest judges and we ate every station, every bowl and left no pot unturned. We also had hot dogs, coney dogs, wine, beer and soft drinks. The frigid evening was PERFECT for chili tasting.

There was spicy chili, mild chili, chicken chili, no bean chili, .. there was even a gumbo ! Topping options were cheese, onions, hot sauce some had sour cream ! … So Poopsie, how do you like your chili ?

THE BIG RAGU’S WINNER: Tie between THE BRUNCH CLUB and THE TROPICS

The Brunch Club had an amazingly sweet chili that was delicious. The Tropics entry was just as addicting. It was a with a hearty, traditional chili with great flavors.

Honorable Mention to the other great chili’s: Longhorn Steakhouses’ Brisket chili, and of course the chili from Jimmie’s Ladder 11. The Spiciest chili was Harrigan’s chili. Other great, hearty traditional chili’s included Elsa’s Restaurant and Slyder’s Tavern. Buckin Donkey Grille’s traditional chili was great, and they even served chicken sausage gumbo that was to die for. Even amateur entries like Chef Daddy’s Firehouse won hearts with their chicken chili.

The real winner here was the AMBUCS charity who raises money to help disabled children and adults in the Miami Valley. It is a local chapter and the funds stay local to help those in need in the Dayton area. If you have never attended this event, it is a complete blast. There was chili, beer, hot dogs, wine and pop (all you can eat). There were casino games like blackjack, showdown, dice games and spin the wheel games. The upstairs area even had a Bingo area !

Chef Daddy’s Firehouse White Chicken Chili (click to enlarge)

It was a true Food Adventure and Gamblers paradise! You have 12 month to get your gastro-intestinal tract in shape for this one. Don’t miss this event next year, it truly was a gas !

Want more photos and tongue in cheek fun from the one and only FOOD ADVENTURES CREW? Then “like” us on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE.

We are not food critics, we are two “foodies in our forties” who love to eat ! This is not our job, this is our hobby, so we don’t have an agenda ! That’s why our stuff is original! Often imitated, but never duplicated you can find us every week right here on Dayton Most Metro !

As always, check out our gallery photos below for some amazing food shots !

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Food Adventures gets Shish-Faced + $20 GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVEAWAY

November 20, 2013 By Dayton937 42 Comments

Click to Enlarge: The Mother of all Shish Wraps

You ain’t gonna believe this shish. WANT A $20 GIFT CARD TO SHISH WRAPS?? THEN COMMENT BELOW ON THIS STORY. A WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM !

When you think of Brown Street, you often think of people who are sh%# faced. But alas, we aren’t talking about those people. We are talking about people who are literally Shish Faced. These people are stuffing wraps in their mouths and can’t get enough of the great flavor. Want to get Shish Faced too? Then head to 1200 Brown Street, the home of a locally owned eatery called Shish Wraps. This family owned business has capitalized on the assembly line technique. Think of it as a Mediterranean version of Chipotle, and better too ! What you can expect is affordable, savory food, with a Lebanese influence.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Opened 8 months ago by first generation Lebanese-American brothers Simon and Tony Abboud who are both University of Dayton Graduates and Centerville grads.

— The focus is a healthy, fresh, tasty twist on Lebanese and Mediterranean food. Their motto is: “Live Long. Eat Healthy. Eat Shish.”

All meat is cooked over a rotisserie flame: You think you’re Hot Shish ?

— Menu items come from family recipes, a love of cooking, and results of experiments over the years.

— The main attraction are burrito like wraps featuring one of 3 meats: Chicken, Beef or Kafta (beef links blended with onions and spices)

— The meat is cooked over fire, on rotating kabob skewers for a char-grilled taste. No buttery, oily soaked meat on a flat grilling surface means HEALTHIER for you !

— Vegetarian? No problem. The falafel (fried chickpea fritters) and vegetable wraps are great meatless alternatives.

Big Ragu loves Shish Wraps, so this isn’t his first rodeo. He told Chef House and Huongry Jax about it and now they are Shish heads too ! Now we’re gonna tell you some shish …

MUST EATS:

— CHIPS & HUMMUS : The creamy, garlic goodness of this hummus is amazing. This is seriously one of the most flavorful hummus plates in town, and it is homemade on site!

— SHISH FRIES: The Big Ragu will go on record as saying these are the best fries he has ever eaten. The fries are dusted with garlic, olive oil and a generous heap of feta cheese.

Kafta Bowl – spicy beef links over hummus, lettuce, pickles and tomatoes. MUST EAT !

— SHISH BOWL: You can choose chicken, or falafel but Jax says GET THE KAFTA BOWL ! Kafta is ground beef mixed with parsley and spices and it is some good shish. Served with hummus, Mediterranean pickles, tomatoes and lettuce, this is a healthy dish that tastes damn good. Be warned, you will be craving future visits for this stuff.

— SHISH WRAP: We love these. The menu says build your own, but may Big Ragu suggest the Chicken Shish Wrap? It comes with an incredible cabbage mix and load it up with your favorite veggies! Get Shish sauce or Tzatziki sauce on it which are must eats in themselves. An added bonus is that the pitas are lower calorie than other wrap places. You can choose your own meat, sauces and veggies so style it your way.

Honorable Mention: The Tabouli – a healthy choice that is freshly chopped in-house. It is seasoned with the perfect amount of lemon juice and served with pita slices.

Make sure you check out our gallery below with some incredible photos from our many visits to SHISH WRAPS… Our fans know we never post a story on a one time visit, this is not a “drive by.” You deserve better.

Now is a perfect time to get some of this good food as the UD Basketball season gets into swing. If you are downtown or near the U.D. campus, visit SHISH WRAPS, for a quick bite. This place is definitely “the shish.”

We realize everyone needs to get a little Shish faced now and then. For more info on menu and hours, visit the Shish website HERE. Visit 3 Shish Heads, Food Adventures, on Facebook and like them HERE !

HOLY SHISH ! We got a $20 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY TO SHISH WRAPS ! Comment below on this article, tell us why you deserve the Shish, and fill out the entry form and we will choose someone at random ![form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

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Food for Thought: Charitable Food Adventures

November 8, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

As the holidays approach, many charity functions are in full swing. Food Adventures is honored to participate in and support over 40 local charities, all of them are close to our hearts. Three of these special events are coming up in November, and we would like to share them, because they need your help and support. So please if you can, take some time to attend these functions for people in need.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 8th – RENT FOUNDATION’s “NITE AT THE RACES” at the IUE HALL at 1675 WOODMAN DR.

—What is this charity? Helping families in crisis since 1995, the GDAA Rent Foundation pays rent for needy families who are facing temporary hardships. Whether an illness, death in the family or some other tragedy, this charity helps prevent homelessness by helping real people locally who are living in apartments. This charity is administrated through the Greater Dayton Apartment Association and could use your support.

Event Website click HERE Charity Website click HERE

—What is this event? Event features 10 horse races on the big screen, endless beer, soft drinks and food for $15. Bring extra money to bet cash and win cash on the races, also raffle drawings, pull tabs and more. Dayton Most Metro’s own Big Ragu is the emcee for this event! Lots of good eats and drink for a Food Adventure !

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 17th – MIAMI VALLEY ADAPTED SPORTS WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL EXHIBITION at the NUTTER CENTER:

—What is this charity? Miami Valley Adapted Sports provides recreational and competitive sporting opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. MVAS has programs that promote physical fitness, character building and friendship. One of the goals is equal opportunities for disabled individuals through education, training and networking.

—What is this event? A wheel chair basketball game where the Miami Valley Adapted Sports kids take on the staff of Children’s Medical Center

Event Website click HERE Charity Website click HERE

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 22nd – AMBUCS CHILI COOKOFF at the MONTGOMERY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS COLESIUM:

—What is this charity? The South Dayton chapter of AMBUCS is a charitable service club, and one of 4 chapters in the Dayton area. They provide free-of-charge, specially built tricycles called AmTrykes to facilitate therapy of disabled children and adults. AMBUCS also provides ramps for families in need of mobility help and pays scholarships for physical therapy students.

—What is this event? Various local restaurants put their chili to the test and you vote for the winner! Price includes all the beer, soft drinks, wine, hot dogs and chili you want! Also try you luck at casino games located around the fairgrounds coliseum. You want a Food Adventure for a good cause? This charity event is just the ticket.

Event Website HERE Charity Website: HERE

AMBUCS chili cookoff includes beer and hot dogs too !

We love calling Dayton our hometown and we are grateful to be a part of these worthy charities. The people involved and the organizations are first class. Remember, life is an adventure (sometimes a Food Adventure), so please give back to the community and support these noble causes.

For our foodie friends who were expecting a typical Food Adventure article with succulent pics this week, we are throwing you a bone below with a photo of our waiter Julio bringing us a “Thurman Burger from the Thurman’ Cafe in Columbus.” Make sure you check out the gallery below for various photos from the 3 charity events featured in this article.

Want more from Dayton Dining’s serious eaters? Then “like”Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE

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An Adult Trick or Treat? Try Winans Chocolates

October 31, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Why should kids have all the fun on Halloween?

Why should kids have all the fun this Halloween season? Adults around Dayton love chocolate and deserve to eat themselves into a sugar high as well. FOOD ADVENTURES has been hitting Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees for years, and think this is a perfect time to load up on some of their elegant chocolate specialties. Go ahead, look at your diet for a day and go “BOO!!”

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Founded near Piqua, this business has been owned by the same family for four generations

— Specialties include chocolate and candy creations, coffees and even a decent wine selection.

— Relaxing, inviting atmosphere to have a glass of wine and some chocolates. Some stores have decent patio seating as well.

— These are fine chocolates, and with quality comes a price. Don’t expect cheap deals, this is the good stuff.

— The candies are made locally with natural ingredients. We love products made in the Miami Valley, and pure is good too!

— Three area locations: 6735 Miller Lane in North Dayton, 2806 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd(Dayton Mall) and 3510 Pentagon Rd. in Beavercreek.

Break open a Bourbon Cherry from Winans. You won’t be the same.

Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffees captures the elegance and decadence of chocolate in their stores. The display cases and sitting areas allow for browsing in a rush, or a slow indulgence. Speaking of indulgence, brace yourself for the “Must Eats” at Winans!

MUST EATS:

— BOURBON CHERRIES: There is nothing quite like these chocolate covered cherries in Dayton. Chef House, Big Ragu and Hungry Jax eat enough of these to get a hangover.

— MAINE BLUEBERRY COFFEE: Yes, you read that right. Food Adventures will tell you “Don’t knock it til you try it.” He highly recommends this uniquely flavored coffee.

— WETZELS: Winan’s chocolate covered pretzels are the perfect mixture of sweet and salty. You simply cannot eat just one of these delicious treats.

— TRUFFLES: Stick one on your tongue and let it melt. The chocolate ganache in the middle is like finding the prize in a Cracker Jack box. This is a Food Adventure in a bite.

Coffee lovers love Winans

— MINT JEWELS: Rich, creamy and oh so dreamy. White chocolate and the texture of the top from the nonpareils makes this a must eat. More addicting than Candy Crush.

Slobbering yet? Then turn the tables on the kids and have yourself a little Halloween Food Adventure at Winans fine Chocolates. Just don’t wear a creepy costume and demand free candy, we wouldn’t want the Mall Police to get involved….

Want more fun with the Dayton Originals, THE FOOD ADVENTURE CREW ? Then click here and “like” them Facebook!!

Browse through the photo gallery below and tell us your favorite treats from Winans in the comment section.

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The Fearsome 15: Top Guilty Food Pleasures in Dayton

October 24, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Frisch’s Hot Fudge Cake is Sinful

We all have them, we all need them… guilty pleasures. As we get older, we try to eat healthier, but once in a while, you gotta splurge. Dayton is a great place to do so. Sure, there is fear in seeing the calorie count, and scary scale readings the following week… but sometimes you gotta have a ghastly, full blown Food Adventure.

So without further ado, we present present our list of the Top 15 Guilty Food Pleasures of the Dayton Area:

15) THE FOOTLONG CHILI DOG at THE ROOT BEER STANDE: Long and strong, we came to get the friction on. This wiener is a mouthful of goodness and a ruined shirt waiting to happen. Eat it in your car, roll up the windows so no one can see,. But we know… this is one of your guilty pleasures.

14) FRICKER’S RIBS & WINGS DINNER: This huge meal comes with a half rack of ribs, those famous fried chicken wings, cole slaw, roll and an side. Finger lickin’ good, and a naughty belt buster for sure.

13) THE PEANUT BUTTER SUNDAE at JET FREEZE: Homemade peanut butter sauce, ice cream, whip cream, nuts and a cherry on top. The peanut butter sauce alone is so sinful that it catapults it onto the list.

12) THE BROOKYLYN BRAWLER PIZZA at JOHNNY’S SLICE of NY: When you serve a giant, stuffed pizza as big as a spare tire, it has to be a guilty pleasure. Big eaters of the Miami Valley come from far and wide not only to eat this giant creation, but to see if 2 of them can finish it in 30 minutes or less to get on the wall of fame. Filled with various meats and cheeses, this guilty pleasure is for serious eaters.

11) THE SEAFOOD PLATTER at TREASURE ISLAND: Deep fried scallops, a cod filet, frog legs, fried shrimp and stuffed crab on a plate with 2 sides. You can taste it all, but don’t test your cholesterol that day. The over the top moment of this dinner is when they serve you some drawn butter for dipping. Oh, behave !

10) ALL-YOU-CAN EAT FISH at the HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE: For just $7.25, you can literally fill yourself to the gills. Breaded and crispy, it is one of the best ‘bangs for your buck’ as far as sinful meals go. The fish is Alaskan pollock, and when you add the sides, rolls and butter slabs, the wheels come off the diet train.

9) BROASTED CHICKEN at GEORGE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT: Deep fried in a pressure cooker, this stuff is guilty fun for the while family. Moist inside, the chicken is always cooked to perfection. Get some heavenly comfort food sides and complete this trip to dream street.

North China’s Crispy Shrimp: Rich, Spicy Flavor with a Touch of Sweetness

8) CRISPY SHRIMP at NORTH CHINA: One of our favorite Chinese restaurants serves us a sweet sauced, deep fried shrimp dish that will knock you on your socks. The taste, the crunch, the bites of sauce mixed with rice. Overdone richness? Guilty as charged.

7) POTATO SKIN CUPS at ANGIE’S FIREHOUSE: Stuffed with chili, bacon, onions, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, jalapenos and sour cream they are a beautiful piece of work. You will find yourself eating an entire plate of these and passing out in a food coma.

6) BISCUITS & GRAVY at TANK’S: Delicious, artery clogging goodness. Although this legendary spot on Wayne Avenue has many treasures, we find this to be our most guilty pleasure.

5) THE HOT FUDGE CAKE at FRISCH’S: We know, this is semi-local and more of a regional treat, but it deserves a spot on our list. Hot, steaming fudge, hitting the cool cake and ice cream. The feeling of the whip cream and hot fudge on your lips is worth every calorie.

4) THE PANZAROTTI at MAMMA DISALVO’S: This is pretty much a calzone that is the size of a small kid. Imagine an extra large pizza full of toppings and cheese, that has been folded in half. Served with dipping sauce, it is like cutting into a turkey to begin eating. Go all out and dip your forkfuls into marina or ranch. It is absolutely delicious.

Click to Enlarge: Broasted Chicken from George’s Family Restaurant

3) THE HOG BURGER at VOLTZY’s: Voltzy says he named the burger after his ex-wife. All we know is that this mammoth 20 ounce burger melts in your mouth, and you find yourself saying “I can’t believe I ate the whole thing.”

2) CASSANO’S BIG CHEESE PIZZA: Like Vic Cassano Sr said “It’s one heck of a pizza.” That famous Cassano’s crust and sauce, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, olives and finished off with a m0und of cheese. The proof is in the taste.

The Big Bo BJ Breakfast Sandwich from B&B Carryout

1) THE “BIG BO BJ” at B&B CARRYOUT: Get your mind out of the gutter, this is a breakfast sandwich. And it is one helluva guilty pleasure. This craziness is a bun with sausage, a fried egg, a hash brown patty, American cheese,strips of bacon and hot pepper cheese. You won’t feel that guilty, because the every bite is just so darn good. A handful of greasy, gooeyness, with great flavor. If you haven’t tried the Big Bo BJ, you need to grab yourself one.

Do you feel guilty yet? Naughty nibbles indeed. Honorable Mention to : Paragon Supper Club’s Paragon Supreme Dessert- a peanut butter and chocolate ice cream mousse, Marion’s Super Cheese Pizza – delicious, Tank’s Chili Cheese Fries-out of this world, and Submarine House’s Super Duper Cheesesteak– triple the meat and cheese & 16 inches long.

DID WE LEAVE ANY OUT? WHICH OF YOUR FAVORITE GUILTY PLEASURES SHOULD WE HAVE INCLUDED IN OUR LIST??

Please comment below and let us know !

For more fun from Dayton’s one-of-a-kind foodies visit FOOD ADVENTURES with THE BIG RAGU, CHEF HOUSE and HUNGRY JAX on FACEBOOK and “like” us HERE .

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Food Adventures does “Dinner and a Ghost!”

October 21, 2013 By Dayton937 3 Comments

Is Snow Hill Country Club Haunted ? Have dinner and decide yourself

Ever had dinner with a ghost? Well here is your chance, Ghost Hunters! Snow Hill Country Club is haunted, and had been serving up “Dinner and a Ghost” nights on Fridays in October for the past 12 years. In fact, the place is so legendary, that it was featured on an episode of the Biography channel’s “My Ghost Story.” The country club is located just outside of Wilmington, on State Route 73. The “Dinner and a Ghost” nights feature food, fear and even an overnight stay.

The Food Adventures Crew have eaten in many scary places, but this was our first “Haunted Food Adventure.” The food is pretty straight forward. On our two trips to the country club, buffet items included turkey and ham, while another night they featured ribs and salmon. The meal is rounded out with salad, a couple of sides and a dessert plate shared by the table, or possibly some cake.

But we weren’t here for the food, we were here for the ghosts. And Snow Hill delivered….

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— “Dinner and a Ghost” features appetizers in the bar and a buffet style dinner. The menu has improved since the 1820’s and they wont be serving rabbit, steamed onions, venison and beef tongue anymore.

One of our dinners featured Ribs and Salmon

— After dinner, the hosts take you on a guided tour complete with historical information, sound recordings of unexplained voices, and even a couple of photos believed to be “supernatural.” Tour gurus include historian Kathleen Madison and Ghost expert/Paranormal Investigator Shelly Suittor. Supporting cast includes Ghost Hunters Kat Powell and Alicia Soich.

— After the tour, guests are encouraged to look around for about an hour and explore for themselves. During this time a few notable unexplained “phenomenon” have been known to occur.

— Attendees may purchase alcohol at a full service bar on the main level.

— There are 6 guest rooms, and groups may make reservations to stay the night for about 100 bucks per room. Included in the stay is “ghost hunting” all night, if you have the guts to roam the halls late at night. Even golf may be arranged during good weather.

— Snow Hill Country Club is located in New Vienna, Ohio at 11093 New Vienna Rd (Daytonians know this as State Route 73). Famous visitors have included Henry Ford, Eleanor Roosevelt, and legendary 1920’s golfer, Walter Hagen.

— Minimum groups for ‘dinner and a ghost’ are 12 people. Cost of dinner and tour is $45 per person.

Click to enlarge: What you think of the “orb” in this photo. Is it the sign of a spirit ?

MUST SCREAMS:

— Snow Hill was built and owned by the Harris family in 1820. It was a popular Inn and tavern up through the 1900’s. One of the oldest running businesses in Ohio, the country club is said to be haunted by spirits of past owners, family members and past guests.

— Many stories abound from the 70’s and 80’s like a man whom believed he hit a pedestrian in the road, but noone was found. Or records of police and firefighters responding to alarms and seeing unexplained light and movements throughout the house.

— The Food Adventures Crew had a few unexplained happenings during our two tours:

Big Ragu was taking photographs in the dark, damp cellar thought to be a passage for the underground railroad. In some of the photos, some circular orbs appeared, one very prominently. We were told that many ghost hunters believe these are tell tale signs of “spirits” in the room. To be honest, we do not know what to think, other than the orbs were strange and not in photos taken of the same place seconds earlier. The prominent orb in the photo had a distinct outline and almost looked to have “veins” running through it. Odd indeed. Is it a spirit? You decide.

The Big Ragu was in the storage area of the basement, when the door next to him opened about an inch and then slammed quickly. He looked around the room at the handful of people near him and they had that “oh crap” look on their face. Ragu opened the door and saw a dark empty hall with a staircase, there was nobody there. There was also a moment where the Big Ragu felt something grab his back pocket. He was unsure if this was a fan who liked his behind or a ghost.

Elegant, yet Spooky: Stay the night… if you dare

— During our 2nd visit to Snow Hill, one of our fellow guests took a photo of what appears to be an apparition in one of the bedrooms. Again, unexplained and just plain weird.

— Employees tell stories of glasses shattering, chandeliers swinging violently, and various apparition sightings.

— Recordings of various unexplained voices gave us goosebumps, especially one particular ghost that whispered the word “Becky” as clear as day on the recording. The voice was creepy like Golem from Lord of the Rings movies, or like someone who ate too much at Golden Corral.

— An 1880’s portrait photo of an man was found in a cupboard, and when locked away, would keep appearing in various open areas of the country club. One of the tour guests recognized the photo as her ancestor Thomas Wilson, a Civil War vet. Since being identified, it was found out that he was a former owner of the country club, purchasing it at auction in 1898. Since being identified, his photo has ceased moving inexplicably.

— A candlemaker tool levitated and slammed to the ground on a couple of occasions in front of various dinner party guests a few years back. The theory is that the ghost of the original owner, Mrs Harris, might not be keen on a “peasant tool” being allowed in her formal dining room as decor.

With Halloween around the corner, this is the perfect time for “Dinner and a Ghost” at Snow Hill Country Club. We were skeptical going in, and realized after 2 visits, some things happened that we couldn’t explain. Were they spirits from lives past? Look at our photos, listen to the recordings in person. Is the place haunted? Did we see “ghosts?” You decide…. and check it out for yourself, but we suggest you don’t go alone.

Click to enlarge: On our 2nd trip to Snow Hill a fellow guest took this pic. Is is a ghost?

So you want to get spooked? Want a frightening Food Adventure ??

Then contact Snow Hill Country Club and ask for a private Dinner and a Ghost Group (minimum 12 people). Tell them Food Adventures sent you!

Don’t forget, you can book an overnight stay and/or a round of golf !

For reservations contact General Manager Katie Gephardt at [email protected] or call her at 937-987-2491.

The Dinner and a Ghost website can be found HERE –>http://www.snowhillcountryclub.com/dinner-and-a-ghost/

For scary images, haunting plates and funny faces, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

CHECK OUT THE GALLERY BELOW FOR UNEXPLAINED AND DELICIOUS PHENOMENA !

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Fresh Food Adventures at Fresco!

October 11, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Do you you hear that rumble? It is your stomach craving affordable gourmet food. The answer is one of Dayton’s best kept secrets, a little restaurant called Fresco.
World class dishes made from scratch with fresh produce from Chef Jenn DiSanto and her staff are what brings loyal foodies to this one of a kind eatery. Located at 3141 Far Hills Ave near the Dorothy Lane intersection in Kettering since 2010, Chef Jenn has been serving her “Mediterranean and eclectic global” menu. The Big Ragu describes the menu as Food Adventure Central.
Hello .. what’s not to love? Even the restaurant name is based on their commitment to fresh ingredients.

If you have not heard of Fresco, or have never been there, then this is your wake up call. Great prices and knowledgeable sous chefs that have experiences cooking outside of Ohio, result in a kitchen that cranks out amazing, extremely delicious meals.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Chef Jenn DiSanto is the only rap-music loving area chef that has studied and worked culinary magic in Belgium, New York, Connecticut and Atlanta. You can count on one hand the classically trained Dayton area chefs, and Jenn DiSanto is one of them. So, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS PRECIOUS RESOURCE and her expertise for priceless dining experiences!

— Clean, casual, yet professional dining room seats about 20 for dine-in lunch or dinner. Lots of regulars, and a personable staff provide and inviting atmosphere.

Chicken Tortilla Soup: Made from Scratch

— Practically all the dishes use Organic and Local ingredients, with a commitment to FRESHNESS.

— Salad Dressings made from scratch that will tickle your tastebuds. Typically 5 or more choices on hand every day.

— Healthy menu with Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten-Free menu options.

— Daily specials feature one of a kind dishes. For more info, visit frescofood.net or click HERE.

— Catering and meals-to-go are popular choices. The menu even features the “feed a family of 4 for $28” section. Food this good at those prices in unheard of in the Dayton area.

— Hours are Monday through Friday 11:30am – 7pm. Remember, no weekend hours except catering or special private events.

In a place where EVERY menu item is spectacular, it is hard to nail down the best. But like Fresco, Food Adventures never disappoints, so here are our “Must Eats !”

MUST EATS:

— HOMEMADE CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP: Made from scratch using homemade chicken stock and fresh ingredients, words like “delicious” don’t do it justice. The soup is garnished with sour cream, cheese tortilla strips. Try this soup and you will understand why it is indescribable. This soup is one of our favorites of all time.

Thai Chicken Sliders are a “Must Eat”

— KALE and CANNELLINI BEAN SOUP: A perfect fix for the upcoming brisk weather. This soup is so good, you will make ‘yummy” noises while eating. The kale is trimmed and cooked to perfection. It is the right partner to this incredible broth and bean combination.

— THAI CHICKEN SLIDERS: The Big Ragu says these are the best sliders he has ever had in his life. The sandwiches have an incredible Thai peanut sauce made from scratch that is added to a shredded chicken mixture. Topped with lemon grass and ginger pickled cucumbers with basil and cilantro slaw for an addicting punch of flavor.

—ROASTED SALMON WITH MANGO CHUTNEY: Before roasting, the salmon is seasoned with a house rub. This is fresh salmon, not frozen and it is perfectly cooked for an amazing taste. Finishing touches include a homemade mango chutney that is “to die for.” Sides include potatoes and grilled veggies. At $15.50, this dish is a steal. You would pay up to double at fancy restaurants and still not touch the taste of this dinner. The Big Ragu will go on record as saying this is the best salmon dinner he has ever had.

—SIDE SALADS: Yeah yeah we know…you think it is just some crisp greens.. but not so fast my friend… The real attractions here are the homemade dressings. These “liquid must eats” are made from scratch. One of our favorites is the White Balsamic Vanilla Bean Dressing. Other incredible flavors of dressing include Lemon Sherry Vinaigrette, Onion Vinaigrette and a unique Bacon dressing (with no Bacon Fest

lines). The Big Ragu recommends the Red Wine Vinaigrette as his favorite. Eating healthy never tasted so wonderful.

Delicious Roasted Salmon with Mango Chutney. Served with crisp potatoes and grilled veggies

Honorable Mention: Grab some handmade Fried Green Tomatoes when they are featured. They are great to share, but so tasty that we won’t share ours. We also love the Fish Tacos every Friday. Attention shrimp lovers, the Shrimp and Grits dinner is pretty good. Polenta is used instead of grits, and the combo of creaminess with the vegetables is amazing. This article would not be complete without mentioning the great Arepas on the menu or the savory Grilled Panini Sandwiches offered. Oh and did you know you can bring in your own alcohol when you dine in ????

Chef Jenn is one of our favorite local personalities, and her service is as “fresh” as the food. This locally owned, family business is a must stop for anyone who appreciates homemade food, and culinary expert cooking at its finest. Looking for a place to eat and want to change things up? We got one for ya.. and now you know, it’s Fresco.

Want more foodie fun? Check out Food Aventures on Facebook and “like” us by clicking HERE. Over 2100 fans cant be wrong. Our first new like get a “free style rap session” with Chef Jen and ourselves.

Check out some of the most amazing photos we have ever posted in our gallery below from numerous Food Adventures to FRESCO !

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Everything From Soup to Crusts at Doubleday’s Restaurant

October 5, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

The comforting French Onion Soup at Doubleday’s

In the late 1980’s TJ Cinnamon’s was located in Centerville’s Cross Pointe Shopping Center. Success lead the owners to dive into another Food Adventure. They rented a space across the parking lot and converted it to sports themed eatery. They called it Doubleday’s as a tribute to baseball inventor Abner Doubleday. The next 25 years would see packed parking lots practically every night. Talk about cult following, the loyalists here come and munch down in droves. Doubleday’s is a rarity in the restaurant industry, because the menu is huge, yet practically everything is delicious. It is one of those places you could eat at every week for a couple of years and still need more time for menu items. Like we said, “everything from soup to crusts” ..pizza crust that is ..

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Opened in the late 1980’s by a Greek family. Future ownership has kept the menu the same and built a following on consistent quality.

— Huge selection of food items on the menu. Keep in mind, this doesn’t even include the numerous specials each day. Gordon Ramsey would have a fit over this length of this menu, but it has worked here for a quarter of a century. To see the vast 16 page menu, click —>HERE

The refreshing “Chicken Summer Salad”

— This place is popular, so expect a short wait during peak dinner times.

— There is a connected pizza shop called “Monster Pizza,” which serves unique and creative pizza pies with exotic topping combinations. Monster Pizza is some of the most delicious and underrated stuff out there. Check out the Monster Pizza Menu —>HERE

— Doubleday’s is a great option for a quick lunch. Trademark menu items like soups, salads and sandwiches ensure a good match. Almost every item on the lunch menu is under $7

— Sunday brunch is held Sunday’s from 11am -1:30pm. The attraction here is about 7 different kinds of omelets.

The Food Adventure Crew have tried almost everything on this extensive menu over the past 25 years. We have earned our stripes, and therefore pass along to you, our patented “Must Eats.”

Stuffed Pretzel Bites: Watch out for squirting cheese

MUST EATS:

— STUFFED PRETZEL BITES: Yeah, stuffed ! Inside each pretzel ball is jalapeno cheese, and if that’s not enough, you get a bowl of spinach queso for dipping as well.

— BBQ CHICKEN RANCH SALAD: Doubleday’s is our favorite place to grab a salad. In a menu highlighted by salads, this is one of our recommendations. Diced BBQ chicken tops a wonderful iceberg and romaine salad. you have your typical toppings like onions & tomatoes. But, what makes the salad is the tortilla strips, black beans and lime wedge to squeeze your way to that last touch of flavor.

— SUMMER CHICKEN SALAD: A seasonal choice, this salad features romaine lettuce, feta cheese, fresh strawberries and pecans doused in a vinaigrette dressing that is to die for. Of course the salad is topped with medallions of baked chicken.

— CHICKEN POT PIE SOUP: Comfort food in a bowl. One spoonful will take you back to your childhood, but without all the homework. Fantastic, creamy taste, with flaky pieces of crust mixed throughout.

— TURKEY CLUB SANDWICH: Triple decker club sandwich stacked high and laid on its side. You can’t go wrong with this classic combo of turkey, bacon, lettuce and tomato on wheat toast. Don’t eat the toothpicks holding the sandwich together.

The Chicken BBQ Ranch Salad is a Favorite

— “NIGHT OF THE LIVING MED” MONSTER PIZZA: It is hard to pick just one Monster Pizza option, but we think this one is the best. It is a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite. IMPORTANT: We recommend you only order this Mediterranean pizza in the thin crust option.

— FRENCH ONION SOUP: Gooey cheese and saturated bread in a flavorful onion broth. You will burn your mouth every time waiting for it to cool down, but it tastes so good you can’t help it. It is hot, like a volcano, but smooth and soothing. Go ahead, make your day.

— “IT CAME FROM OUTER GREECE” MONSTER PIZZA: A unique pizza that you won’t find anywhere else in Dayton. Kalamata Olives, Grilled Chicken, Spinach and Tzatiki sauce (that white gyro sauce) top the pizza. Also feta, tomatoes and onions adorn this pie. So much flavor that, that you will feel Greek for a week. Quite simply, we love it.

HONORABLE MENTION:

Potato Soup – This creamy creation is probably their most popular soup.

Voodoo Veggie Monster Pizza: Loaded, Your choice of red or white sauce. ‘Nuff said.

Doubleday’s has great sandwiches. Even the grilled cheese is good

Chicken Burrito: It is as massive as Big Ragu’s head and able to control Hungry Jax hunger!

Mountain Salad: This heaping salad was created by Doubleday’s regular, New York Jets Center and Centerville native Nick Mangold. A salad that satisfies protein and nutrient needs, it features iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, sauteed mushrooms, onions, cheese and jalapenos. Topping options include blackened chicken or house sirloin steak.

We love Doubleday’s Grill & Tavern because of the quality and variety of food choices. From healthy options to one’s that would fill Babe Ruth’s appetite, Doubleday’s has something for everyone. Stop in this hot spot at E. 199 Alex Bell Rd, and see for yourself why there is always a crowd.

Check out our photos below from numerous Food Adventures to Doubleday’s Grill and Tavern. This is not a drive bye .. eye eye eye eye..

***COMMENT BELOW*** Have you been to Doubleday’s? Did we miss one of your favorite dishes? Sound off below so other Food Adventure fans can benefit from your taste buds !

Want more from Dayton’s favorite Foodies on Facebook by clicking HERE !

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Who’d You Rather.. FRICKERS or ROOSTERS ?? $20 Gift Certificates

September 27, 2013 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Boneless Wings at Fricker’s

Want to win a $20 Gift Certificate for your own Food Adventure to Fricker’s or Rooster’s? Today these perennial sports bar favorites go beak to beak, feather to feather, cluck to cluck. Which one do you like better?

You can’t deny local wing kings Fricker’s and Rooster’s have been enjoying success in the Miami Valley for decades. Rumor has it that the Fricker brothers had a falling out. As a result, one of the brothers went off on his own and opened Rooster’s restaurant as a result. The family feud was Dayton’s gain.

So Food Adventure fans – we want to hear from you.. which of these saucy sports dives is your favorite? Whether you like boneless or bone-in, whether you like breaded or grilled chicken, comment below and let your voice be heard. Why? Because 2 people will be picked at random to win a $20 gift certificate to Frickers and Roosters respectively! Oh and we wanna see which place has a more loyal following…

The Food Adventures Crew sound off on their favorites:

Wings at Rooster’s

Hungry Jax’s Take: Rooster’s has a bigger salad selection, which is important to me. I also like the fact that they have more pizza offerings and more sub options. My vote is for: ROOSTERS”

The Big Ragu’s Take: ” To me it is all about the traditional wings and the sauces. In my opinion Fricker’s runs away with it on those categories alone. They have better burgers and better boneless wings as well. My vote goes to: FRICKERS”

We know that both spots have their strengths like WINGS , BONELESS WINGS, and a great venue to watch sporting events, but lets recap our take on the differences between these two:

The Burgers at Fricker’s are surprisingly good

FRICKER’S STRENGTHS:

— Fricker’s offers Ribs. And guess what, they aren’t bad for a casual sports bar!

— Fricker’s special’s are superior. They have 40 cent boneless wing specials on Monday nights and 40 cent traditional wings on Tuesdays. Fricker’s offers a sirloin steak for only $5 on Wednesday nights and $5 chicken chunks on Thursdays. Also kids eat free everyday. Saving money is good.

— The Brew City Fries, onion straws and fried zucchini are 3 decent appetizers only found at Fricker’s

— Cheaper beer prices at Fricker’s. They feature the $2.42 large domestic drafts. Nothing like a cold one and big screen football.

— The burgers at Fricker’s are bigger. Quite frankly we think they are better as well.

ROOSTER’S STRENGTHS:

Asian Chicken Salad at Rooster’s

— Rooster’s has “Dumpster Fries” which we think is the best appetizer found on either menu. Try them for a taste of awesome indulgence.

— Rooster’s has a better selection of Sandwiches. More choices, more options, especially for those counting calories.

— The salad offerings at Rooster’s are more complete. For those trying to eat healthy, you will have more options at Rooster’s.

— Rooster’s pizza’s are better. Again, more options for toppings, etc. If you haven’t eaten their pizza, you will be pleasantly surprised.

— Rooster’s gets the edge in soups. Something you may not know is that both places have some incredible chili and pretty good New England Clam Chowder. We have been eating those as a start to a Food Adventure for years.

Food Adventures with The Big Ragu and Crew gave their opinion -now it is YOUR TURN ! Who’d you rather get it on with: Frickers or Roosters?

COMMENT BELOW AND SETTLE THIS BATTLE OF THE LOCAL WING SPOTS !!!

We will pick one winner from each restaurant for $20 Gift Certificates

Visit the often imitated, never duplicated Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking —> HERE !
We are not food critics, we are just foodies that love to eat !!

Browse our photo gallery below from our many Food Adventures to Rooster’s and Fricker’s !!

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Chop Suey Carryout: The Oldest Chinese Restaurant in Dayton

September 19, 2013 By Dayton937 2 Comments

Something is to be said for a restaurant that has been serving dishes for over 40 years. Chop Suey Carryout at 1465 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering has quietly done just that. In fact, this eatery is the first place we ever tasted Chinese food. They don’t have a website or even a Facebook page, but they have been cranking out Asian classics and we have been having Food Adventures here since Gerald Ford was President. How has this place stayed in business for so long? The answer is consistently good food and good prices. Their recipes remain identical since the 70’s, and the result is generations of loyal followers.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Chop Suey Carryout was opened in 1973 by a family who had moved to the U.S. from Taiwan. The same family owns the restaurant today, and have kept the location on E. Dorothy Lane for the entire run.

— As the name suggests, it is a great place for carryout. If you must dine-in be prepared for the retro dining room. We voted it “Best Dining Room for filming a scene from Kojak.”

— The prices are reasonable and all dishes come in size Regular or Large. Do yourself a favor, get the regular, it is a good sized portion and will save you some cash.

— All the meals are served in those “little Chinese to-go boxes,” even if you dine-in. It makes for a fun Food Adventure, just grab some chop sticks and go to town.

— Chop Suey Carryout is closed on Sundays, so make sure you hit them up Monday through Saturday til about 9pm.

Shrimp Chop Suey – The Best Chop Suey in Dayton

— Drink selection is very limited. They have a couple of soda brands and maybe a tea.

Now, get ready to wok and roll as FOOD ADVENTURES gives you our…

****MUST EATS !!!****

— CHOP SUEY: Of course ! How can you write an article about this place and not mention their specialty namesake? Answer: YOU CANT ! Unless your a food critic who doesn’t know what they are doing. Our favorite is the Shrimp Chop Suey, but you can get vegetable, pork, chicken or beef varieties. This creamy mixture of cabbage and vegetables is the best chop suey in Dayton. It is served over steamed rice and is very filling.

— CHOW MEIN: This dish is identical to Chop Suey, except it is served over hard Chinese noodles. Again you have vegetable or various meat options. However, we have been eating this dish since we played t-ball and we say go for the Shrimp Chow Mein option (or Chicken if you need a substitute)! The clear sauce on this dish has an amazing flavor and is how we remember it as kids. It is the best chow mein in Dayton and never disappoints.

Fantastic Hot n Sour Soup – be careful, it is always Scalding Hot !

— HOT & SOUR SOUP: Addicting, flavorful ..and SCALDING HOT ! Beware: this is served hot enough to burn your mouth for 20 minutes. The 20 minute wait is worth it, as this hot and sour soup rivals the big name restaurants in town.

— SWEET & SOUR SHRIMP: An old classic served up right by an old restaurant. We don’t know why it is so good, but Big Ragu says it is the best Sweet & Sour dish in the Miami Valley. Maybe it is the lightly crispy, deep fried batter on the shrimp. Or maybe it is the classic, deep red, sweet and sour sauce unlike any other. Secret: we think it is the combination when the two mix. Again, if you are a land lubber and hate seafood.. try the sweet & sour chicken option.

— SESAME CHICKEN: A good flavored sauce covering deep fried, white meat chicken. The sesame sprinkles are the finishing touch. Pour over white rice for sheer heaven.

Sesame Shrimp & all entrees are served in Chinese “to-go” boxes. Easy Chopstick eatin’

Honorable Mention: Egg Foo Young – Chop Suey Carryout is one of the few places in town that serves this dish and does it justice. The same can be said for their Moo Goo Gai Pan. Again, we have been ordering and eating this stuff before anyone twirled a rubix cube, so trust us. Also, the Kung Pao Chicken is great in a pinch. Most recently we tried a dish we have only seen at Chop Suey Carryout called Wor Shue Gai. It is a deep fried chicken dish, with a curious yellow sauce. It needs some spiciness, so we say stick with the ‘Must Eat’ classics !

Some things like disco music and Laverne & Shirley didn’t survive the 70’s. Chop Suey Carryout survived and is still stir frying and high flying today. Wok, don’t run, to this Kettering icon, and try some of our favorites. Discover why after four decades, Daytonians still stand in line for this takeout Food Adventure.

What is your opinion of Chop Suey Carryout? Comment below and tell us your thoughts or menu recommendations.

Want more to take home? Then check out FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook and “like” us by clicking —>HERE.

Browse through photos of numerous specialties we have sampled over the years. Sorry, no smellivision included…

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Christopher’s Restaurant: Saintly and Sinful

September 13, 2013 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Mushroom Bisque one of many homemade soups

Some say the food at Christopher’s Restaurant is like a religious experience. That would make sense because the eatery is named after St. Christopher, the patron saint of travel. Owner/Chef Chip Pritchard and his staff have developed a cult following with the locals, and a favorite stop of foodies who are passing through town. Why? Because it is comfort food. It is not pretentious, just good solid food. We met the owners at a farmer’s market and it has been a favorite Food Adventure stop ever since.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Known for their extensive, fresh menu it is a salad, soup and sandwich lovers paradise.

— Vegetarian and Vegan friendly choices make it a favorite healthy dining spot. Many gluten free menu items to choose from as well.

The Black Bean Burger: not just for vegans anymore

— Breakfast menu that rivals anyplace in Dayton. Most overheard quote at Christopher’s “you gotta come back for breakfast.” Tasty indeed.

— Christopher’s employs two bakers who make the desserts from scratch twice a week. Check the revolving choices and make sure you don’t miss out on these sinful offerings.

— Thursday nights are “theme nights.” Probably our favorite time to visit Christopher’s. Guaranteed great foodstuffs in a fun, inviting atmosphere. Most recently, we went to Caribbean Theme Night on September 12th.

— Christopher’s uses local farms, local produce, naturally raised beef, organic salmon (from Foremost Seafood), local free range eggs, and organic coffee and teas.

Speaking of which, The Big Ragu and crew have to tell you about …. the MUST EATS at CHRISTOPHERS

Many organic items like Ice Teas served with fresh, local mint sprigs

— THE CHRISTOPHER SPECIAL: A bacon sandwich with avocado, tomato, Neufantel cream cheese and bean sprouts. We crave this and get nights sweats thinking about this specialty sandwich.

— THE MEZZA PLATE: House Hummus, falafel, feta cheese chunks, kalamata olives, tomato slices, cucumbers and carrots surrounded by pita chips. This ain’t your grandparents vegetarian menu…

— BUFFALO CHICKEN SOUP: Phenomenal homemade soup with a kick better than Pelé. Eat some and become a Buffalo Soldier like The Big Ragu.

— THE BLACK BEAN BURGER: Even if you are not a vegetarian, you gotta try this delicious and filling burger.

— MUSHROOM BISQUE: One of our all time fave soups is simply divine. Creamy goodness in every spoonful.

— CARROT CAKE: The homemade icing will have you saying “dude, seriously?” Try it, your tummy will thank us.

— BUMBLEBERRY PIE: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Yes, 3 berries, one pie. Served cold or hot, you can’t lose with this fresh, local creation. Big Ragu approved !

— TWO GOOD BREAKFAST: Two eggs, two pieces of bacon, two pieces of sausage and two pancakes or French toast.

Delicious, Fresh Breakfast Choices

Honorable Mention: Bacon & Tomato Omelette, Honey BBQ Chicken and The “Decent Breakfast” which features choices of fruit or home fries, choice of meat, 2 eggs and a biscuit, toast or English muffin.

This quaint dining establishment is a great place for a date, or a visit with your grandmother. Expect great service, as the staff is friendly and very knowledgeable. The eclectic menu at Christopher’s Restaurant is a great place for a serious eater. From healthy, to vegan, from ethnic to good old fashioned American comfort food, they have it all. It fits the bill for practically any occasion. Best of all, many ingredients are fresh and local. Give it a try next time you are near the corner of Woodman Dr and Dorothy Lane. They are open Monday – Saturday: 7:30am – 9pm. They use organic to make meals that are fantastic.

Browse the many dishes in our photo album below from our many meals at Christopher’s.

Love Facebook? Want some more from your favorite “foodies in their forties?” Then check out Food Adventures on Facebook —> HERE

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Jimmie’s Ladder 11: Great Food in a Historic Firehouse

September 5, 2013 By Dayton937 4 Comments

Jimmie’s Ladder 11 on Brown Street. A “hot time in the old firehouse”

What better place for a Food Adventure than a historic Dayton Firehouse? But atmosphere isn’t everything , you gotta have good eats too. Jimmie’s Ladder 11 at 936 Brown St. is one of Dayton’s best examples of a great menu in a great venue. The restaurant is located in what used to be an old city firehouse back in the days when the engines were run by horse drawn carriages. Dayton Fire Department memorabilia lines the walls of this beautiful dining area. Antique wood floors and walls throughout the building develops a warm, nostalgic feel. But Th e Food Adventure Crew knows, the decor is just the beginning.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Jimmie’s Ladder 11 is located in a historic Dayton Fire Department Building built in 1892.

— Family owned restaurant with a stellar service staff.

— Owner Jimmie Brandell worked at the Upper Krust for 17 years honing his restaurant skills.

— Wide variety of menu choices from Burgers and Sandwiches, to rare Upstate New York favorites

Creole Cheesecake is not a Dessert, it is a Savory Appetizer

— Nice selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles. They even feature a fire hydrant tap.

— Live Music on weekends, showcasing eclectic local bands

— Private Party Loft available for special events or parties

— Outdoor dining area overlooks a bustling Brown Street

Let’s dive into the menu, with FOOD ADVENTURE’s MUST EATS for JIMMIES LADDER 11:

Grab a fork and follow us…

Paisano Pasta Chips – Fresh Deep Fried Pasta, “Italian Nachos”

CREOLE CHEESECAKE – Probably one of the best appetizers in Dayton. This unique menu item is not a dessert. It is a casserole type dish served in slices. The “cheesecake” is stuffed with Andouille Sausage, Shrimp, smoked Gouda, Cream Cheese, Onions, and Peppers. Slightly “fiery,” but mostly rich and tasty.

NEW ORLEANS GUMBO – Made from scratch daily, this hearty gumbo is simply amazing. Bursting with Chicken, Shrimp, and Andouille sausage, this is a “must eat” with the perfect heat. We are addicted and after one cup, you will be too.

VODKA RIGGIES- You won’t find this Upstate New York favorite anywhere else in Dayton. Jimmie’s wife, Sue is from Utica, NY where this dish originated. Creamy tomato sauce is blended with vodka, chicken and rigatoni, then finished with peppers. There is some spiciness to this pasta plate, but we won’t have to hose you down afterwards. One of our favorites for sure.

NEW YORK STYLE CHEESECAKE – One of the best we have ever eaten. Again made from scratch, this is a cross between the Upper Krust Cheesecake and the ones you find in New York City. We love this stuff. Order a piece for a rich, sinful taste of dreaminess.

LADDER 11 SANDWICH – The kitchen starts out with either a hoagie roll or rye bread. They add some Romanian style Pastrami and Corned Beef. Top the whole thing off with the house-made, hand-cut Cole Slaw. The final touch is a drizzle of house-made Russian Dressing. Are you licking your chops yet?

Honorable Mention:

The Hamburger – You might hear fire truck sirens in your head, because for 6 bucks, this platter is a steal.

Tom Turkey – A throwback to the Upper Krust sandwich. You cant go wrong with turkey and creamy house-made cole slaw chopped that day.

Paisano Pasta Chips – Could be described as “Italian Nachos.” Homemade pasta, deep fried and topped with Italian Sausage, Onions, Peppers, Mozzarella and Provolone. The concoction is finished off with a delicious Asiago cream sauce.

New York Style Cheesecake – Unbelievably good

Jimmie’s Ladder 11 is a Dayton original. No trendy stuff here. The Ladder 11 staff has brought together good, affordable food and fun surroundings. They even have great salads and vegetarian choices.

If you have not had a chance to visit this establishment, take some time to check it out. We frequent this place because we love the menu and beer selection. The service is always spot on as well. Got a hungry stomach? Put that fire out by visiting Jimmie’s Ladder 11.

Want some more “hot” scoop from some “fiery foodies”? Then “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Browse through our incredible photos below for a thorough look at the menu. We aren’t a “one dish Trish,” we write informed stories after trying various menu items during numerous visits.

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Food Adventures with Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell

August 29, 2013 By Dayton937 1 Comment

Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell Enjoying a Brew at Tank’s Bar & Grill

Everyone knows that Gary Leitzell is the mayor of Dayton, but did you know that he is a foodie ?? You may find him at Tank’s on Wayne Avenue with a mini pitcher of beer discussing the history of Dayton. You may see him munching on pizza at the South Park Tavern, talking about some of the old homes in the neighborhood & who built them. You may catch the mayor cutting a sandwich at the Top of the Market & Deli at Webster Street.

The Big Ragu often runs into Gary Leitzell at various community events. We have had Food Adventures with the mayor at Ghostlight Coffee and even visited with his legislative aide “Gladgirl Shelly.‘ The mayor has spent time with us at the 2nd Street Market. We have been with him at charity events like the AMBUCS Chili Cookoff. And, who could forget our ‘must eats’ like Oktoberfest at the Dayton Art Institute or the World A’Fair at the Convention Center.

When we see Mayor Leitzell, he always takes a moment to talk with us about Dayton and the local government’s exciting plans for the city. Practically everything about Gary is unique. Most of his childhood was spent in England, he has no political affiliation and fancies himself an independent.

But this is not an article on politics. It is an article on fun and food in the Dayton area, which is what Food Adventures are all about.

Speaking of fun, here are some things you ‘gotta know’ about Dayton Mayor Gary Leitzell:

— He eats every sandwich with a fork and knife. – Yes, hot dogs and burgers too. Call it a good manners habit from his days in merry olde England.

—He has a blog called ‘This Old Crack House’ – Mayor Leitzell is a cool character with a great personality. His blog documents the refurbishing of his historic home, which went from a log house to a townhouse, to a crack house and now, his house. You gotta love a guy that has a blog called “This Old Crack House.” Check it out HERE.

— Mayor Leitzell has a scooter. – What better way to get to a Food Adventure?

— He doesn’t own a cell phone. – Gary is a person who prefers to communicate face to face or by email. Wait a minute, how does he order carryout food? For a guy always on the move, we find it astonishing that he doesn’t own a mobile phone. Maybe it is a lesson to us as well.

— His favorite rock band is ‘The Who.’ – Will they play a farewell show at Courthouse Square when his term as mayor ends? We will have our people get with your people to coordinate that one.

If there is a lesson to be learned from Mayor Leitzell it is “Be yourself.” The mayor has a positive passion for the Dayton area and the future of the city. He is involved with many activities, from West Side Dayton volunteer projects to creative marketing for the city. But, you won’t see that trumpeted in a paper or in a story online. As his term expires in January, look for him to run for a Montgomery County Commissioner seat.

So be on the lookout next time you are eating out and around Dayton. You just may be sitting next to the mayor !

What are your top 5 Dayton area restaurants? Comment below so we can see how you stack up with the mayor !

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Leitzell may be the bossman, but Food Adventures are the Dukes of Facebook . Like these “Dayton Foodies” on FACEBOOK by clicking —–>HERE!

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