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Dayton Pays Tribute to Franco

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Restaurant Entrance

Dayton has lost a friend.  Franco Germano, the restaurateur who started an iconic Italian eatery in Dayton 41 years ago, passed away this past weekend.  The 73 year old had bravely battled cancer over the past couple of years.  He never let up, he never quit.  He even visited his hometown in Italy recently.  Franco was a one-of-a-kind with a personality as big as his work ambition.

Dayton is paying tribute to Franco today, Wednesday March 28th, we will toast Franco and all are invited.  The event will be held at 5pm at FRANCO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, 824 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402

Click here to see Franco’s obituary and funeral arrangements scheduled for April 2nd and 3rd, 2018.

The Big Ragu last visited with Franco at a retirement party for his longtime bartender/server Rick Busch.  It was quite a Food Adventure.  We got to sit and spend a couple of hours talking with Franco, and we were grateful.  If you have ever had a conversation with Franco, then you know what we mean when we say it was priceless.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on the LIFE OF FRANCO GERMANO:

— Franco was best known for his “Franco’s Italian Restaurant” which he opened in 1976.  It has been an anchor in the Oregon District ever since.

Franco with 2 of his grandchildren

— Franco Germano was born in Italy and immigrated to the U.S. in the 1960’s.  After a stint in the United States army, he began washing dishes at a local restaurant.  But he had dreams of one day opening his own place, with his own family recipes.

—Franco’s hometown was Duronia, Italy.  He had a huge aerial photo of his hometown on the wall of his restaurant which he referred to often.

— The native Italian was a very active member in various parts of the Dayton sports community.  His passion for playing soccer led him from adult leagues  to helping coach at Carroll High School.  Franco was also a football fan and was known for his passion for the Cincinnati Bengals and legendary tailgate parties.  He supported his favorite  local sports teams like the Dayton Dragons and UD Flyers Basketball as well.

—His restaurant is known for his “World Famous Spaghetti Dish,” which is an olive oil based mushroom sauce tossed in pasta.  Manicotti, Lasagna, and Calamari are other favorites on the menu.

Wed March 28th, 2018 5pm Francos restaurant will celebrate

SIDE NOTE FROM THE BIG RAGU:
Being a fellow Italian it was always fun seeing Franco.  I met him first in 2000, but had only started talking to him in the past few years.  He treated me like he knew me his whole existence.  We would talk about our family roots in Italy.  Franco would ask me questions about my heritage and I would ask him questions about Italy.  If we weren’t talking food or family, we always talked Bengals, Flyers Mens Basketball and local golf courses.  We also chatted about other local Italians we knew and the circles where most Italians hung out.  Franco was always very happy to hear how much we enjoyed his food.  I loved watching him cook on Living Dayton, and we talked about cooking recipes frequently.  He usually had a joke or a phrase during the conversation that was a memorable piece of advice.  It was fascinating to hear his life stories and I tried to learn from his experiences.  Our humble blog pays homage to a Dayton legend.  Thank you Franco, for over 4 decades of dedication.  We will miss you.

Follow Food Adventures on FACEBOOK HERE.

Enjoy our gallery below of great memories of Franco’s.

Franco’s World Famous Spaghetti

The Front of the legendary Franco’s

Italian Beer- Cheers to Franco’s accomplishments!

Another Italian Beer – here is the Franco! Salut!

Cheese Ravioli

Hometown Photo

Pasta and hot pepper flakes

Seating in the bar area

Calamari and toast

Dessert

Opened Oct 26 1976, over 4 decades of success!

Manicotti at Franco’s

 

 

Corks & Forks Food Adventure At Archers

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Archer’s-Kettering is hosting a Food Adventure Wine Dinner on April 19th and we are calling it “CORKS and FORKS.”

Today the chefs at Archer’s have confirmed a final menu for the event.

GET TICKETS NOW – Seated is limited to the first 40 tickets sold.

“CORKS and FORKS”
4 COURSES, 4 WINE PAIRINGS Just $40
(Menu subject to change)


THURSDAY MARCH 29th 6:30pm
ARCHERS KETTERING, 2030 E. Dorothy Ln, Kettering

FIRST COURSE:
BANGING SHRIMP and SPINACH DIP – Made with 3 cheeses

SECOND COURSE:
GRILLED ROMAINE HEART CAESAR SALAD: – Served with shaved Parmesan cheese and grape tomatoes. We may showcase Archer’s “Cardinal” dressing.

THIRD COURSE:
BEEF TENDERLOIN: – Served with a wild mushroom red wine sauce, on a bed of mashed potatoes.
(possible Salmon option for those who do not like steak)

FOURTH COURSE:
APPLE CRUNCH CAKE – Apple Pie topped with brown sugar, yellow cake, and mixed nuts.
(Key Lime pie option for those with nut allergy)

Wine pairing information to be announced later..

TICKETS MAY BE PURCHASED ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE…

Again, seating is limited and once seats are gone, they are GONE !

“CORKS AND FORKS”
THURSDAY APRIL 19th 6:30pm
ARCHERS KETTERING, 2030 E. Dorothy Ln, Kettering

 

 

Submarine House Announces Pink Ribbon Girls Nights!

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The charity minded owners of the Submarine House and their employees are at it again.  This time they are calling it “PRG Nights.”
The first event is FRIDAY MARCH 23rd and will benefit Dayton’s Pink Ribbon Girls charity.  The Pink Ribbon Girls are known for supporting women in the Miami Valley who are dealing with breast cancer.
Last year Submarine House raised $30,000 for the Pink Ribbon Girls during their “Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge” events.  The challenge is back and the PRG events are kicking things up a notch.
How do you say ?
During March, April and May, Submarine House will pass the torch to 6 of their bar and grills, hosting a different PINK RIBBON GIRLS NIGHT at each location.
Here are the dates of the PRG nights:
March 23- Vandalia Location at 7850 North Main St
April 6- Centerville Location at 503 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd
April 20- Beavercreek Location at 3195 Dayton-Xenia Rd
April 27- Troy Location at 14 N. Market St.
May 11- Hilliard Location at 2459 Hilliard Rome Rd
May 18- Huber Heights at  5376 Taylorsville Rd

Come out to PInk Ribbon Girl Nights at Submarine House

Submarine House is also running a  “Round it Up Campaign” at all locations through the end of the contest June 9th.  On every restaurant bill there will be a line where you can “round-up” the nearest dollar, and it all goes to Pink Ribbon Girls. 
The main goal is to boost fundraising efforts and raise as much money to fight Breast Cancer and help local families dealing with this illness.
HERE IS THE SKINNY on PINK RIBBON GIRLS NIGHTS at SUBMARINE HOUSE:
—Each benefit will run from 6-8pm on the Friday nights listed above.
—Raffle prizes featuring a gift basket and a few rustic signs will be given away
— A 50/50 drawing will be held during the event.
Also, there will be some extra special moments at each night, where Pink Ribbon Girl ambassadors will tell their own personal stories of dealing with breast cancer.  That will be followed by a 15 minute “lightning round” of the text to donate program.  Our goal for each lightning round is $1,000!

Submarine House – come eat cheeseteaks and help charity

Beers on Tap !!

$30,000 to PINK RIBBON GIRLS in 2017

Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge finalists !

Will you help this cause?  Please consider coming out and supporting a local charity with results that have affected dozens of families for the better.

Cheesesteaks and charity.. come hungry, come thirsty and leave fulfilled !
The Food Adventure Crew will be at the Centerville event April 6th and hope to see you there !
The Super Duper Cheesesteak Challenge is going on now and the finals are June 9th.. Can you qualify?
Also, Food Adventures will again host a Super Duper Cheesesteak challenge qualifying night some time in April or May  – stay tuned to Dayton Most Metro for the date!

CJ Chan Quietly Enters Year 8

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Inside CJ CHan’s Bar on Alex Bell Rd.

An unsung restaurant has developed a solid following over the past 7 years.  The restaurant is the locally owned CJ Chan on Wilmington Ave, with a second thriving location on Alex Rd for the past 2 years.

Recently, we have heard more and more fellow foodies ask us to meet at CJ Chan for dinner or lunch.  We have obliged, and after eating there about a dozen times in the past 10 months, our Food Adventure crew understands the attraction.  If they don’t get you with a sauce, they will get you with the sushi boss.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on CJ CHAN:

— This mom and pop restaurant opened up in 2010 at 536 Wilmington Ave in Dayton, and 2 years ago on 2747 W. Alex Bell Rd in Moraine/Centerville.

Full Sushi Bar

— The menu features CHINESE and JAPANESE cuisine, so you can try the best of both worlds, made by local chefs.  From Sushi and Hibachi to Szechuan dishes and Crab Rangoon, the menu has something for everyone covering the food spectrum of 2  countries.

— Both CJ Chan locations are small, seating about 40, but the dining room size is perfect for an intimate lunch and the crowds seem to flow quickly in and out.  Both locations have sushi bar seating as well.

— This eatery has some of the friendliest, most attentive service staff in town.  Sometimes there may be a slight language barrier, but overall, the service is very impressive.

Egg Roll and Spicy Shrimp dish

— The hours are great for early lunches or later dinners:
Mon – Thu: 10:30AM–10PM
Fri – Sat: 10:30AM–10:30PM
Sun: 11:30AM–10PM

— We just found out that they have a second menu at the Wilmington Ave location called the “Hot Pot” Menu.  It features, chicken, beef or seafood hot pots for $18-$20.  Are they soups? Are they just hot bowls of food? Guess what we will be having next visit …. ?

But what dishes are the best of the best on this extensive Asian Menu?  Food Adventures is here to sort it out for you on our patented MUST EATS list.  Grab your chopsticks and a napkin, because these aren’t fusion menus, they are 2 separate Chinese and Japanese full menus.. Here we go …

 

MUST EATS at CJ CHAN:

— THE EGG ROLLS:
We don’t know why, but the distinct flavor of these egg rolls are delicious. Mostly cabbage and wrap, the hand rolled appetizers have some spice in them that we find delicious and addicting.  Definitely take time to splash the egg roll inside with soy sauce and dip it in sweet and sour sauce.  You have to ask for that sauce, or they will bring you duck sauce.  Trust us, the sweet n sour sauce is night and day better than  the duck sauce.

Kani Salad

 

—THE KANI SALAD:
Incredibly refreshing mound of shredded cucumber, crab and touched off with hot mayo and vinegar mix with crunchy sprinkles on top.    Fun to eat with chopsticks, this appetizer will bring a smile to your face.  If you love crab, this appetizer is for you.  A perfect way to start your meal, it is an essential part of a successful visit to CJ Chans.

 

— SALMON TERIYAKI BENTO BOX LUNCH:
This bento box has it all for a great lunch.  The salmon is grilled to perfection.  Other bento box items include a California Roll, White Rice, and Salad.  It is priced right and filling option for a nice lunch.  They serve you a nice piece of salmon as the highlight to the meal.  Don’t forget to dip thjat California roll in wasabi and soy sauce.

 

—GENERAL TSO’s SHRIMP:
A great twist on a dish normally used with chicken.  It is a breaded shrimp dish with a hot and sweet browninsh sauce.  Typically served along with broccoli, they serve it with cucumber slices.  This was one of our all time favorite dishes at CJ Chans.  Great flavors in this Chinese dish.

—SASHIMI LUNCH:
This is for the serious sushi lover.  You get a bento box with 8 pieces of raw fish chosen by the sushi chef.  Also served with a California Roll.  This is a great deal and a steal at 9.55 for lunch.  You also get white rice and a salad in the bento box too.  In the past they have given us fish like salmon, tuna, white tuna, tilapia, octopus, and yellowtail.  Get a side of soy sauce, pout it in the small sushi soy dish, add the wasabi, stir it in and dip the fish into that.  This is PURE heaven …  Amazing, because the fish is so fresh it melts in your mouth.

 

—THE TRIPLE ROLL
Absolutely fantastic combination of Tuna, Salmon and avocado.  It is the best sushi roll at CJ Chan and one of our all time favorites anywhere.  Do you love raw fish?  This roll is for you and not for the squeamish.  It is a great deal because they pack a lot of salmon and tuna into this roll.  If you are not doing our wasabi and soy sauce dip to finish this off, then  you are missing half of the taste.

Teriyaki Salmon Bento Box

The key to CJ CHAN is to find your sauce and experiment with various dishes until you find your favorites.  Since the menu is so extensive, the sauces will lead you to the promise land.  Lunch is the best deal of course, due to better prices.  The sushi is a fantastic option and cannot be missed on any visit.  Both locations are great, but the busier lunch crowd is on Wilmington Ave, the bustle in and out and there is usually not a wait, but it comes close.

So stop in at Alex Rd or Wilmington Ave and experiment for yourself.  Make that sushi chef work his magic, and keep the bento boxes coming.  You will love it !

Food Adventures is a local Dayton area food blog that focuses on Miami Valley food places.  We have no rules, and eat it all,  We have a weekly article feature right here on DaytonMostMetro.com  Follow Food Adventures on Facebook for lots of food photos and fun by clicking here.

Please feel free to browse the gallery below, for more on CJ CHAN !

 

The Triple Roll

Sashimi Lunch at CJ Chan

Wilmington Ave Location

Dipping Spicy Salmon

Coconut Jello

Crab Rangoon

Great Sushi

Unreal Sushi Rolls

General Tso Chicken

Gyoza

Honey Chicken

Lunch deals are the best bang for your buck

CJ Chan – Wilmington Ave

Sushi

up close

Bento box

Bar Area

Spicy Tuna

Avocado Much

Spicy sushi roll

Mongolian Chicken

Fried Shrimp

Triple Roll

HIbachi Chicken

Sesamie Chicken

Fried Wonton

Rice

Miso soup

Norturo Roll

Teriyaki Salmon

Spicy Salmon

sashimi bento

Hungry Jax Shares St Patty’s Day Recipes

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Whisking the cheese dip

Sometimes it is easier to find a 4 leaf clover than it is to find a good recipe.  Today you are in luck.

Irish or not, you are going to love the 2 recipes offered up this St Patricks day by our own Food Adventure Crew’s resident mom, Jackie.

This month Jax offers up 2 favorites for your tastebuds and the recipes are so easy, you wont need any luck to serve them up !

And guess what?  The two recipes go together!   Faith and begorrah, we have it all right here.

The recipes are GUINNESS BEER CHEESE and FRIED IRISH BOXTYS (POTATO CAKES)

Get on your green apron, it is time to get rolling with the first recipe !

GUINNESS BEER CHEESE:

1/4 c Unsalted Butter

The Cheese dip is Served !

8oz Cream Cheese

8oz Shredded Cheddar Cheese

1/4 c Heavy Cream

1 Tsp Cayenne Pepper (or more to taste!)

1/4-1/2 c Guinness Stout

Melt butter and cream cheese together in medium saucepan on medium heat, whisking constantly until smooth.

Whisk in cream and cayenne.

Once mixture is warm enough to melt the cheese, slowly whisk in shredded cheese. Be prepared to whisk for a while until it is smooth!

Once smooth, slowly add in beer until desired consistence is achieved!
This is best to serve right away. Keep warm on low heat on the stove and stir frequently. You can make it a day ahead of time however it won’t be as creamy but it will still taste great!

***********************************************************************************************************************************
Now, our girl Jax gives us recipe # 2

Frying up the Potato Cakes

FRIED IRISH BOXTYS (Potato Pancakes):

1 large russet potato peeled and chopped into 1 inch cubes.
1 large russet potato peeled to be grated
1/4 cup white onion grated
1 3/4 cups cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp Kosher salt
1 cup butter milk
unsalted butter for pan

vegetable oil for frying

Boil and mash chopped potato (you can add a tbs of salted butter while mashing).
Grate second potato after completing mashed potatoes (if you do this step too soon, your potato shreds will brown).

Combine together in a large bowl the potatoes and onion.

Dip it

In a second bowl, combine your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt).
Add the dry ingredients to the potato bowl and mix thoroughly.

Slowly mix in buttermilk, being careful to mix only until just combined (just like pancakes!).

On a griddle set to medium heat, melt butter and scoop out 1/4c of batter. Flatten with a spoon and cook until light golden brown. Flip and cook again until light golden brown.
Allow pancakes to cool and cut into 1/4s.
Heat vegetable oil to medium hot and fry Boxty’s until golden and crisp.
Dip in beer cheese and enjoy!
*********************************************************************************************************
This is a great combo to make on St. Patrick’s Day morning! Add in a side of eggs, roasted brussel sprouts,and some corned beef!
There you have it Dayton foodies ! We share another couple of incredible tastes for this holiday.
Have fun and be safe this St Patricks Day !
Expect a weekly article for the Food Adventure crew EXCLUSIVELY right here on Dayton Most Metro.

Delicious

May the road Rise to Meet ya !

New Mikesell’s Flavors +WIN A FREE CASE!

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There’s some new chips in town

Starting March 12th you will see 2 new flavors on the shelves from Mikesells.  That is right the Mikesells Snack Food Company, your hometown Dayton made potato chip is done taste testing, and now they are producing.  We think both new flavors show promise as being hits.  We should know, we helped with the taste test study and these flavors topped the charts for us.  So we feel like giving.

****WIN A FREE CASE OF THE NEW FLAVOR CHIPS**** more info below !

Whoops we digress,

The new flavors are …………..

—SPICY DILL PICKLE:
This one starts subtle then after about 6 chips you feel a slight tingle.  Part sweet, part heat, all good.   They are bagged in the Groovy style potato chip. These are a great new flavor.
Food Adventure Pairing Suggestions: Deli sandwiches, Tuna Subs, Fried Fish, Cheeseburgers

—HIMALAYAN SEA SALT AND VINEGAR:
That slightly sour vinegar and the hint of salt makes this a timeless classic. These chips are the old-fashioned style and are crisp and hearty. An addicting snack that is lip smacking good.
Food Adventure Pairing Suggestions: BBQ Chicken or Pork, Philly Cheesesteak, Veggie Pizza, French Onion Dip

Mikesell’s is excited to announce these two new flavors that should be hitting your local grocery stores and convenience stores this month.  These bold chips will be available for purchase online as well, through Mikesells.com Chipper Shipper.

So be on the lookout starting March 12th, and support your hometown potato chip company.

As many Daytonians know, Mikesell’s is the oldest continually run potato chip company in the United States.   It is still family owned by the descendents of D.W. Mikesell, who started selling his potato chips in 1910.   These high quality, great-tasting potato chips are a tradition in the Miami Valley.  Pick some up ASAP !

Or you can win a FREE CASE OF CHIPS —

****WIN A FREE CASE OF THE NEW FLAVOR CHIPS**** more info below !
We love them so much that we think you will love them too.  That’s why Food Adventures is giving away a CASE OF MIKESELLS CHIPS (split between the two new flavors).  All you have to do to win is comment on the article below as to why you love Mikesells chips, and a winner will be chosen at random.

Food Adventures is a local blog that has weekly feature articles right here on Dayton Most Metro.  Please check us out next week for more scoop on the Dayton Area food scene.  Are you a passionate Dayton foodie?  Then like us on Facebook HERE

Feel free to browse the gallery below of fun times and Mikesells Chips !

Himalayan Sea Salt and Vinegar chips !

Inside the Mikesells plant

Potatoes – ready to be magically transformed

Some of our favorite taste testers !

We call this the tunnel of love

Soon to be a new favorite !

Inside the SPICY DILL PICKLE bag !

 

‘Creek Milano’s Hosts Wright State Basketball ESPN Party

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Can Wright State do it ?

The Beavercreek Milano’s Restaurant at 2260 N. Fairfield Rd will be the place to be this evening. The Wright State Raiders Men’s Basketball Team are one win away from earning a spot in March Madness’ biggest dance.  All that stands in the way from joining those 64 teams is Cleveland State University.  This promises to be the BIGGEST college basketball party in the Miami Valley in 2018, just a few blocks from WSU’s campus.

Milano’s is known for their Atlantic City Style Subs and Pizzas, opening its first location near the University of Dayton campus on Brown Street in 1969.    After being bought out by some local restaurateurs, the eatery updated their facilities added locations in Miamisburg and Beavercreek.

The restaurant has plenty of TV Sets,  a big menu and a full bar.  All that is  needed is you cheering Wright State on to victory!  The game will be on National Television on ESPN.  What an opportunity for a fun Food Adventure !

IF WRIGHT STATE WINS, THEY ARE IN, IF THEY LOSE THEY GO HOME…

The stakes could not be any higher….

 

WHAT:  Wright State Mens Basketball vs Cleveland State
WINNER GETS A SPOT in the NCAA MARCH MADNESS TOURNAMENT !

WHEN: 7 pm tipoff  – TUESDAY MARCH 6th on National Television (ESPN)

WHERE: Party is at MILANO’S BEAVERCREEK LOCATION at 2260 N. Fairfield Rd

Can the Raiders make it into the tourney?  Come cheer on this underdog and see if the slipper fits this Cinderella team !

 

25 beers on tap – tip off here …

MUST DRINKS:

— Milano’s has an extensive beer list with over 2 dozen beers on tap !!
Here is the current list of draft beers at Beavercreek Milano’s  – The Big Ragu recommends and is gonna have a Trotwood Lager from Dayton, a Saison form Braxton Brewery in Covington, KY and a Paulaner Hefe Weizen from Germany.

MUST EATS:

—THE ATLANTIC CITY ITALIAN:
This is the signature sub. Genoa salami, capicola, cotto salami, provolone, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, special seasonings. Grilled and served with mayonnaise, or baked served with pizza sauce

—THE MEATBALL SUB
Meatballs on a roll with sauce and melted mozzarella

—THE DELUXE PIZZA
A Dayton favorite with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.

See you at the party!   We will be there !! RAIDER UP!

In an additional note, the WOMEN’S WRIGHT STATE BASKETBALL TEAM is in the same situation – needing a win today (March 6th) at noon vs Green Bay.

For more Dayton area foodie news, follow us weekly right here on DaytonMostMetro .com. We promise a fun, informative article each week. Like FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking HERE.   Making people hungry since 2008 !

 

 

A Deluxe Pizza Pie

what is at stake !

More PIzza !

The MEATBALL SUB !

Bar Area

Pizza and more

Calzones Salads and Housemade sriracha !

Dayton’s Top 30 Sauces

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Mamma DiSalvo’s Marinara is the best in the land.

We know Food Adventures can be saucy.  We know the Miami Valley can be a flavorful place to live.  What do you slather on your food to get more out of it?  What are your favorite flavors and tastes for sauces in Dayton?

The Food Adventures Crew have compiled a list (in order) of our favorite sauces.

We have slopped, spread, squirted and poured.  We have shaken, stirred and enjoyed many of these food sauces for decades.  The Big Ragu is a sauce freak… But now we put them all together and present to you…

 

*** DAYTON’S TOP 30 SAUCES ***

A Dayton Area Legend… so good.

1)  MAMMA DISALVO’S MARINARA SAUCE & SALAD DRESSING:
The absolute best sauce in Dayton is Mamma DiSalvos spaghetti sauce. Sure, you can a buy a pre-packaged  jar, but here is the secret… GO TO THE DELI AND GET A PINT OR QUART OF THE FRESH MARINARA SAUCE MADE THAT DAY!  The fresh pasta sauce is amazing, we could drink this stuff.  It is fantastic with boiled or baked pastas.  Their salad dressing is almost as good.  Try the salad dressing on one of The Disalvo’s Deli subs.  It makes the whole sandwich,use them together for a meal and you are in Dayton paradise.

 

2)  PINE CLUB‘S HOUSE DRESSING:
An incredible line of dressing available at the restaurant fresh, or jarred at local grocery stores. Pick up some house dressing at the nearest Dorothy Lane Market or Kroger. It will turn your salads up 2 notches. The whole line of dressings are quality stuff, with the perfect amount of flavor and tang.  Try them,  it is an iconic taste of Dayton.

 

Housemade Sauces and Rubs have revolutionized “Hot Dayton”

3)  HOUSEMADE SAUCES:
Our own Food Adventurer Chef LeeAnne House set the hot sauce bar high locally by winning competitions in Louisiana and at Jungle Jim’s. Though the liquid sauces are in hiatus due to a shortage of Thai Chili Peppers in the USA, you can still get her spice rubs. We are holding out hope that someday the sauces will be back. Some of the last bottles in town have been spotted at Foremost Seafood… FYI..

 

4)  MEADOWLARK’S HOMEMADE ROSEMARY KETCHUP:
What do you get when one of Dayton’s top restaurants puts its spin on a condiment? The answer is a Rosemary Ketchup that is perfect for french fry dipping, or dressing up a burger.  Chef Wiley and her staff have so many incredible, homemade sauces and daily creations, but this is one of our all time favorites !  Meadowlark is definitely a sauce paradise !

 

The creamy Lobster alfredo sauce on Giovanni’s Lobster Ravioli

5) GIOVANNI’S PIZZA SAUCE and ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE:
The Spaziani family has recently planned on jarring their sauces, and with good reason.  Their pizza, pasta and alfredo sauces have been area favorites for decades.  This spot in Fairborn  hosts wine dinners from time to time that feature incredible sauces, made right in their kitchen.  Try the marinara, over Gnocchi, Ravioli or with Manicotti.  You can thank us later, when your mouth isn’t full.  This eatery is part of Dayton’s soul.

 

6) THE SPICY OLIVE’S  JAPANESE SESAME SEED OIL, FLAVOR INFUSED OLIVE OILS and BALSAMICS:
When owner Melanie Cedargren first introduced us to her olive oil, it opened up a world of cooking flavors, literally.  We can now cook like our favorite Asian restaurants. How?  Using Spicy Olive’s Japanese Sesame Seed Oil.  That is just 1 percent of the amazing products they have.   May we recommend the balsamic vinegars infused with various flavors for great salads?  The store also carries its specialty, flavor infused olive oils from California and all over the globe.  Try the butter infused oil when cooking fish or popcorn.  How about the garlic or cilantro flavor when cooking chicken?  They sky is the limit and this place will make you a culinary superstar in your kitchen.  All of these items are available in small or large bottles, so you can maximize your choices.

Olive Oils at the Spicy Olive-  The Japanese Sesame Seed oil

7)  FLAVORS EATERY GARLIC SAUCE:
Rich LoRusso and his wife Elaine have brough the California healthy living cuisine to the Dayton foodies.  In the search to find various healthy substitutes, they developed this garlic sauce.  It is a minced, creamy garlic sauce and it is smoothly delicious.  From Nachos, to Chicken dinners to sandwiches, this sauce is great on everything.  The sauce is for sale at Flavor’s Eatery in Centerville and Lebanon and also available at some local grocers.

 

Red Headed Sauce Co.’s Medium Hot Salsa

8) FRESH IN A JAR SALSA and MARINARA by RED HEADED SAUCE CO.
Chef Marshall Bartley has taken his culinary expertise to develop a salsa that is like no other.  His decades as a chef at country clubs, restaurants, and catering companies is our benefit.  The Medium Hot Salsa is the best of these flavors.  Try it, you will LOVE IT !  The marinara sauce is fantastic too, reminiscent of the Brio and Bravo deeply flavorful tomato sauce.  The company will also team up with groups for fundraisers and charitable causes.  Get your hands on these jars, you will be glad you did.

 

9) CARVERS STEAK and CHOPS’ BEARNAISE SAUCE:
Fine dining in Dayton, stops through Carver’s Steak House.  Whether it is a prime rib, a  New York strip, or baked salmon.  The béarnaise sauce can make that great piece of protein even better.  It dresses up the plate and makes for a savory hint to each bite.  Creamy, delicious and made in-house, this sauce goes great with all of Carver’s quality meats.

 

10)  THE DYNAMITE SHRIMP SAUCE at SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE:
Lisa Long and her staff have so many great appetizers, soups and sauces to try.  One of our favorites is the Dynamite Sauce on the Dynamite Shrimp Appetizer.  It is a spicy and creamy “bang” to your taste buds.  May we also give a shout out to an incredible Dijon based tarragon sauce that is drizzled on many fish entrees as well.  Lots of great sauce creations at this Centerville restaurant.

 

Lieutenant Tangy is the best of Company 7’s Sauces

11)  COMPANY 7 BBQ’S SAUCES:
When 3 fireman get to cooking, you know good things are happening.  That’s the story with Company 7 BBQ’s owners.  They have taken the time to develop 7 homemade sauces, all with distinct styles and tastes.  They are all tasty sauces, but which one of these nationally recognized BBQ sauces is the best?  We rank their 7 sauces in order right here.
1) Lieutenant Tangy – Kansas City BBQ style sauce with a tangy kick
2) The Rookie – mildly sweet sauce
3) Firefighter Sweet – Memphis style sweet BBQ sauce
4) The Secret Hot BBQ Sauce  – only found in a secret bottle behind the bar…. no label, just an underground concoction that packs some heat.
5) Commissioner Burns – A spicy BBQ sauce
6) Captain Carolina – Mustard based,  Carolina style sauce
7) Chief Smoky – Just like the name implies, a smoky flavor in this one…

Now you know all of their sauces, including the secret one behind the bar, and which ones are the best.  Again the truth is, they are all great.  On Ribs, Wings and Chicken OH MY !

 

Some of the Woebler Sauces at Charlie’s Deli and Imports

12)  WOEBER’S MUSTARDS:
Springfield’s sauce masters have plenty of choices for the hot dog or sandwich in your life.  Most popular of these products are the Yellow and Brown Mustard product lines.  They include a Dijon mustard,  a horseradish mustard, a jalapeno mustard, a honey mustard and a Craft beer mustard made with Warped Wing Beer.  There is even a Dusseldorf Mustard.  All mustards are locally made in their facility .  When is the last time your face lit up from the surprisingly nice zing from a  Sandwich with Woeber’s mustard?   Grab a bottle of this stuff at Kroger and other Dayton grocers, and see for yourself.  A large selection of Woeber’s is also available at Charlie’ Deli in Dayton.

Are you sauced yet?  Our list goes on  ….

 

Franco’s World Famous Garlic Olive Oil sauce – spaghetti dish

13)  THE GARLIC OIL SAUCE on FRANCO’s WORLD FAMOUS SPAGHETTI:
Take an Italian native with a passion for cooking and experimenting. Give him a restaurant called Franco’s Ristorante Italiano.  Take some olive oil and a lot of garlic, pn sear that with Italian sausage and an egg and you have the base for a secret sauce that has pleased Daytonians for over 40 years.  Chef/Owner Franco Germano’s sauce is his own olive oil based sauce creation. You can also add sautéed mushrooms on top to seal the deal. The result is a lighter tasting pasta dish, not weighted down with a heavy sauce. For those who want a break from the traditional marinara based sauces, this one is for you.

 

14) THE “YUM YUM” SAUCE at SAKE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE:
You’ve heard them say it over and over again at Sake.  They say “can I get some extra Yum Yum sauce.  HA.. another foodie that is hooked.,  It is addicting, this creamy sauce that goes just perfect over rice, seafood and even the sushi rolls for an occassional dip.  A knockoff brand is for sale at Kroger’s but it is “cray cray” expensive and not the real deal.  don’t get us wrong, we love the Ginger Sauce too, but the Yum Yum sauce is in a league of its own.

 

Oscar Sauce at the Paragon is a great option to any steak

15) THE OSCAR SAUCE at THE PARAGON SUPPER CLUB:
You’re sitting in your best attire at the Paragon, the plate is served to accompany your stewed tomatoes and hash browns.  Ahh you chose the oscar sauce to stop your steak.  Steak Oscar is a French tradition, where the meat is topped with a creamy crab béarnaise sauce and asparagus.  Sometimes Cheese is involved.  Anytime you get this option at the Paragon, deliciousness is involved.  Try your steak “Oscar,” the next time you hit this Centerville pillar of the dining community.

 

16) THE BBQ SAUCE at CENTERVILLE PIZZA and BBQ:
This eatery is a nationally award-winning place, known for inventive pizzas (try the zombie pizza – it will change your life).  But the unsung hero at this kitchen is the BBQ.  Amazing Pulled Pork, Ribs and broasted chicken need one thing .. A GREAT SAUCE !  Holy cow does Robert Benson, the owner come through.  His BBQ sauce is a tangy throwback.  It is very flavorful with a strong hint like the old Open Pit brand in the blue bottle.  Nothing crazy fancy, just a bold, tangy taste.  Try this, order a dozen broasted wings, order a couple of sides of BBQ Sauce.  Dip those wings and go to town.  It will be your best  Food Adventure of the week !

 

Dont go Brucken my heart

17) BRUCKEN FOODS’ HORSERADISH SPREAD and DUSSELDORF MUSTARD SAUCES:
When you need flavor, the Kettering company called Brucken Foods is a great go to,  You can find their sauces at Foremost Seafood, Dorothy Lane Market, Kroger and Jungle Jim’s.  What you didn’t know is that these sauce recipes are 100 years old, like the company !  Brucken Foods has been serving the Dayton area since 1913.   Owner Louie Brucken used to deliver pickles, spices and condiments out of a horse-drawn wagon ( we need to get Chef House one of those ). Today, owners Steve and Mary Lingg service Dayton’s finest restaurants and grocery stores with their Horseradish Spread, Mustard sauce and more.

 

18)  VOLTZY’S SWEET HEAT MUSTARD:
This sauce can be found at the legendary hamburger man whose business model is like the Seinfeld “soup nazi.”  In between calling customers wimps or telling jokes, he is slapping sweet heat mustard on his one-of-a-kind burgers.  Rick Volz will tell you that there are many secrets to his burgers, and one of them is the signature sauce he uses.  Voltzy uses a mix of yellow mustard and red pepper paste to make a slightly spicy condiment.  He puts it on every cheeseburger that he makes unless you dare defy it “his way.”  You will get some grief, but we learned something,  He is right, the sauce is fantastic and the burgers are best his way (The Big Ragu catches hell for adding ketchup some days).

 

The Red Chili Paste at Little Saigon is out on the tables,.

19)  LITTLE SAIGON’S HOMEMADE HOT CHILI PASTE:
Homemade hot sauces are good.  Vietnamese family secret hot sauces are great.  Take the jars lining the tables at Little Saigon.   They are scary.  First of all they are not refrigerated, but that isn’t necessary.   It is a red chili paste and it goes well in soups, on soft rolls, and as a dip for spring rolls.  The result is heat.  Vietnamese food can be known for its spiciness and there is no shortage of hot sauces in this restaurant.  We recommend it because it burns so good.  Yes, even though it is hot, you cannot get enough.

 

20) MUTT’S SAUCE:
Made in Dayton, this sauce is gaining a bit of a following.  It is a Tomato-based sauce with hints of Onion, Vinegar, and Garlic.  The sauce is produced in Dayton Ohio, but invented by Charlie “Mutt” Ferrell, Jr., an Air Force Vet from Carthage, Tennessee.   In 1956, Mutt developed a sauce he could use for every meal.  It is sweet, tangy with a little bit of heat.  Mutt would host parties and his sauce helped break down down any cultural or language barriers. The sauce quickly became a symbol of unity wherever he went.  Mutt passed away in 2005, in his seventies.  His granddaughter, Charlynda Scales, an air force vet, just like him has taken the torch.   Charlynda decided to have the sauce bottled, with Mutt’s name and face on the label.  Every bottle of Mutt’s Sauce continues his legacy.

 

Charlie Ferrell Jr’s Legacy

21) DAVE’S DAWG SAUCE:
The perfect topping to plain hot dog. It is part mustard, but on steroids.  Great on Turkey subs/sandwiches too.  Heck any recipe with mustard, this sauce can boost that recipe.  We have seen Dave’s Dawg Sauce at Kroger, and Dorothy Lane Market.  Invented by a local resident, the sauce goes great on burgers, chicken and ribs too.  Not a bad french fry dip as well.

 

22) DOROTHY LANE MARKET’S CHAMPAGNE MUSTARD SAUCE:
DLM does it again with a sauce that will please at the deli, or as simple as dipping chicken nuggets.  This is a small jar, and they don’t last long.  Another one of our favorite things to do is dip pretzel sticks into this stuff.  It is undoubtedly one of the tastiest sauces in Dayton, this had to be on the list.

 

Got Shrimp ?

22) THE BARNSIDER’S COCKTAIL SAUCE:
A Miami Valley tradition has outlasted the restaurant that started it.  Even though the Barnsider is out of business, the cocktail sauce lives on through bottlers.  You can pick up a jar of the good stuff at Foremost Seafood, Krogers and Dorothy Lane Market.  A nice flavor, with that horseradish punch.  Can you get more old school Dayton than this sauce ?  It is Cocktail Shrimp’s perfect partner.

 

23)  WALT’S SALSA and BBQ SAUCES:
Locally jarred salsa that has a cult following.  Load up on Walt’s .  It is chunky and we prefer the hotter versions.  Want to know what is equal to his salsa?  His BBQ sauce !  Yes.  This sauce is a perfect marinade, grilling or baking sauce.  It is a thinner sauce and goes great on grilled or baked chicken breasts.  Marinating some wings for the grill?  Try Walt’s BBQ sauce for that…

 

24) KABUKI’S HOMEMADE SOY SAUCE:
Made in-house, this wonderful sauce is perfect with the sushi on hand, or the rice with entrée meals.  Many a Bento Box have been lonely without this sauce.  To make your sushi experience the best, take  a ball of wasabi, about as big as a pea.  Dissolve it in the homemade soy sauce.  Dip the sushi and hold off the sneezes.  You are now experiencing a Japanese delicacy.

 

Bourbon Sauce Burger at Brixx !

25) OAKWOOD CLUB’s GARLIC VINAIGRETTE HOUSE DRESSING WITH BLEU CHEESE CRUMBLES:
The best 95 cent upcharge you will ever make.  Oh those salads, oh those breads, wouldn’t one with Blue Cheese be perfect about now?  Creamy  aromatic, garlic filled, dressing finished with bleu cheese crumbles.  What a great way to start out your meal.

 

26) THE BOURBON SAUCE at BRIXX ICE CO.
This versatile sauce is used on two of our favorite menu items.  First the Bourbon Fries, a slightly sticky, always sweet menu item that is a simple, yet delicious twist on plain fries.  A light coat of bourbon sauce on top, turns a normal side into a signature treat, but it doesn’t stop their.  Our favorite use of the sauce is on the Bourbon Burger at Brixx Ice Co.  A nice, fresh beef patty topped with crunchy onion rings and based in Bourbon Sauce.  Try this burger and see what we are talking about.  Chef and Owner Chris Bhai is the one to thank for this sauce !

 

27) ZAPPIA FAMILY SPAGHETTI SAUCE:
This is an all natural, no preservative Tomato Sauce made in Dayton, Ohio.  The recipe is Dayton native Dan Zappia’s grandparents recipe from the Calabria region of Italy.  This is the “new kid” on the block as far as Dayton marinara sauces go.  They claim the secret to this delicious sauce is fresh ingredients and a pinch of love.  The sauce is fantastic and has a nice strong flavor.  We have seen it for sale at Flying Pizza Downtown, Kroger, Fresh /Thyme, Dot’s Market and Jungle Jims.  It is a nice, rich tasting  and local pasta sauce, so buy local !  There are 3 flavors of jarred spaghetti sauce, the first being Standard Marinara.  The second is a spicy marinara called, Arrabbiata.  Finally,  a Porccini sauce which includes mushrooms.

 

28) ANNARINO’S TOMATO SAUCE:
Their sauces are available at Kroger, and Dorothy Lane Market.  In 1951, Annarino’s Restaurant opened in Dayton.  Today you can still get that taste. Annarino’s is still family owned and operated, using he secret recipe that has been passed down through the family generation.  The finest quality ingredients go into this sauce which is also Low fat and Cholesterol free.  Try the 4 flavors of Annarino’s sauces: Mushroom, Marinara, Meaty Italian Sauce, and Meatless Italian Sauce.

 

29) FRICKER’S SAUCES:
The hometown sports bar of Dayton has branched across the state, using their sauces as stepping-stones and wings as a springboard to get more business.  Frickers has some great sauces, and depending on your tolerance for hot sauces, your favorites may vary from ours.  But we can tell you this …

Frickers BBQ Wings – a sauce that launched a franchise

If you love MILD sauces –

Try the BBQ Sauce. This is their flagship sauce on which they built a brand.  It is sweet and delicious, whether on boneless or traditional wings.  This is the king.  Garlic Parmesan and Bourbon Molasses gets honorable mention for MILD heat lovers.

Do you like Medium heat?

Little Kicker is where it is at … or try a secret mix of BBQ Little Kicker.

Do you like things hot?

Their Killer Sauce is probably one of the most popular very hot sauces in Dayton.  Also, the BBQ Killer sauce combo is legendary in these parts.  Whatever Fricker’s sauce you choose, bring plenty of napkins !

 

Katsu Curry Dish at Ariake Sushi Bar

30) THE JAPANESE KATSU CURRY SAUCE at ARIAKE SUSHI:
In Japan, one of the more popular sauces on the rise is curry flavored.  Owner Miko Whigham developed an authentic curry sauce, like those enjoyed in her home country of Japan.  You can enjoy it right here in Dayton in one of their dishes “Katsu Curry.”  It is a deep-fried pork tenderloin (you can ask for chicken) sliced into strips and placed on white rice.  The tenderloin is then completely doused in the curry sauce.  The result is a filling, one of a kind rich treat.  Even non-curry lovers have been known to like this sauce, why?  Because it mimics an American style gravy sauce.  So the unique flavor is reminiscent of a comfort meal with gravy.  Try this and see if we aren’t right on target.  They hit a home run with this thick, rich sauce.

 

Let us not forget…. Honorable mention for the

REGIONAL SAUCES:

Montgomery Inn BBQ Sauce over Ribs

A) MONTGOMERY INN BBQ SAUCE:
The greatest BBQ Sauce known to man. Bob Hope’s favorite, as he would have ribs delivered to his home every 2 weeks. Try the sauce on wings and chicken breasts too. It is best served hot.  We cannot sing the praises of this Cincinnati area sauce enough.  It is very versatile …

 

B) FRISCH’S TARTAR SAUCE:
This sauce has a cult following that started in Cincinnati. The creamy tartar with pickles chopped up inside. It is the perfect topping for a Big Boy. Ask for extra sauce on your sandwich, it always works out for the better.

 

Spaghetti Sauce from LaRosa’s

C) SCHIAVONE’S MARINARA  SAUCE:
A canned sauce that is the pride of Middletown, Ohio. Look for cans of this sauce at Kroger. They have 3 types of sauces, a pizza sauce, a marinara and a spicy marinara. They are incredible, and a no frills base for any tomato sauce that you may want to doctor up.

 

D) LaROSA’S SPAGHETTI SAUCE:
Buddy LaRosa and his family have brought one of the tastier sauces to our region. The jars are sold at Kroger and at each restaurant throughout Cincinnati and Dayton.

 

E) CITY BBQ’S ORIGINAL BBQ SAUCE: They have five basic sauces.  In order here are the best : Original, Sweet City, Brushfire,  LowCo, Swine Wine.  This company is a Columbus based operation and is growing like crazy.

 

F) SKYLINE CHILI’S HOT SAUCE:
A hot, Cincinnati version of a tabasco type sauce. When the hot sauce hits the cheese, your 5-way or chili coney is official. Comes in a squirt bottle and is fun to use with oyster crackers. You fill the cracker holes up with sauce and pop them into your mouth. We affectionately call these “a-bombs.”

 

Paying homage to sauces of the past…

SAUCES WE MISS:

—DOMINICS HOUSE SALAD DRESSING:
The biggest cause of bad breath in Dayton from the 1950’s to the 1990’s. This was a guilty pleasure and only the ones who breathed this fire could appreciate the garlic power it emitted.

 

—THE GRUB STEAK’S SALAD DRESSINGS:
The Bissett family had some of the best dressings around.  They were available for a short stint in grocery stores in the 1990’s.

 

—MRS WRIGHT’S SAUCE: 
Remember this bottled sauce? They had it at the condiment station at Dayton Dragon’s games and sold it in local stores.  We  miss that sauce on our hot dogs !

 

There you have it – the top 30 Sauces of Dayton, Ohio from today and yesteryear.  Only Food Adventures would dare rank a bold list like this.  If you want more Food Advenutures, please LIKE them on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Each week right the Food Adventure Crew presents a featured article, EXCLUSIVELY on DaytonMostMetro.com.

See you then, in the meantime feel free to browse the photos below and comment on your favorite sauces.

 

Garlic Sauce from Flavors

Franco’s marinara on manicotti

Centerville Pizza and BBQ’s sauce on Ribs

Givoannis Pasta Sauces

Mama DiSalvos sauce

Meadowlarks Rosemary Ketchup

Dynamite Shrimp sauce at Sweeneys

Little Saigon Hot Sauce

The Spicy Olive owner Melanie Cedargren

Voltzys Sweet Heat Mustard

Annarinos Meaty stuff

Frickers Killer Sauce on Boneless OMG hot

Ragu snuggles with Company 7 BBq’s secret hot Sauce found behind the bar

BBQ and Hot Sauces from Centerville Pizza and Ribs

When you see the label , buy the stuff

The Bearnaise Sauce at Carvers

 

 

Woebers Mustards

Daves Dawgs Sauce

Garlic Sauce from Flavors !

Annarinos Pasta Sauces

Giovannis pasta sauces are amazing

Centerville Pizza and BBQ sauce over pulled pork

Bernaise sauce and Salmon at Carvers

Dayton’s Biggest Fish Fry is Tonight

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Friday Feb 23rd at 7pm, people from all over the city of Dayton will be dropping by Alter High School tonight for the area’s biggest fish fry.  It will be a Food Adventure of Epic proportions. From raffle prizes to casino games, to fish dinners, this one is the Grandaddy of em all !  That’s right, the largest fish fry of the Miami Valley Lenten Season is at Alter High School’s main gym and cafeteria.

 

HERE’ THE SKINNY on ALTER’s FEB 23rd FISH FRY:

—Event is held at 940 E. David Rd, Kettering, Ohio 45429

— Carry Out / Drive Thru dinners available 4:30pm -6:30pm

— Event lasts from 7pm – midnight and is always the last Friday in February

—Ticket prices $15 prepay / $20 at the door

— There will be a silent auction, blackjack tables, showdown, Texas Hold Em, Instant Bingo, Wine Cork Pull and more.

— Online auction – CLICK HERE

Our tips for a good time include, either get there early or get there late, because the line gets long.  Leave your coat in the car, it gets warm in the gym.

Be safe, have fun and enjoy this Food Adventure during Lenten Season.  For more fun about local Food and Events join Food Adventures on Facebook.  7,500 fans cant be wrong.  Check us out on DaytonMost Metro each and every week with a new feature article.

You’ll be hooked !

Other fish fry’s happening tonight:

Dayton FOP Fish Fry

St. Benedict the Moor Fish Fry

St. John Fish Fry

Sacred Heart Fish Fry

we love fish frys

Alters Fish Fry

A Unique Valentine’s Day Choice + Win $20 Gift Card

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Japanese Style Dining Room – sit on the floor

Looking to impress a loved one this Valentine’s Day? Well, we are about to let a secret out of the bag, so move quickly on this one.  Couples are always looking for something fun and new, so here is the scoop on the Food Adventure you have been looking for.

The place is in Miamisburg, and has Dayton’s only traditional Japanese style dining room.  This means you sit on the floor, on pillows, no shoes.  They give you warm towels to wipe your hands, the whole nine yards.  More importantly you will have 2 incredibly authentic Japanese menus at your fingertips. One for sushi, and the other features appetizers, soups and entrees.  Many of these dishes, you won’t find anywhere else in Dayton.

The place is called ARIAKE SUSHI BAR and is located at 59 Fiesta Lane near the Dayton Mall.

***WIN a $20 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO ARIAKE from Food Adventures !***
COMMENT BELOW ON WHY YOU SHOULD GET THE CERTIFICATE and a WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM.

How about a warm bowl or Udon or Ramen Soup ?

What a great chance to try some of Dayton’s best sushi for free.

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON ARIAKE SUSHI:

—RESTAURANT HOURS ARE:
TUES – THURS: 11am-2pm lunch, 4pm-9:30pm dinner
SAT & SUN: 11am – 10pm
 They are closed on MONDAYS

— Extensive, authentic Japanese menu.  The owner Miko Whigham, is a Japanese native.  Her daughter recently has joined the team as the customer base has grown.   The word is getting out about Ariake.

—The dining area consists of 3 options – sushi bar seating, regular dining room seating, and the special Japanese style dining room, the only one of its kind in Dayton.

—Ariake has a nice selection of Japanese beers and Sake.

—The kitchen specialties include Udon Noodle Soups, Katsu Curry, and Ramen Noodle Soups.  The Dayton Roll is the Big Ragu’s favorite and the Sunset Roll and Ngiri (raw fish on rice) and Sashimi (Raw fish slices) options are top notch.

The Cupid Roll – BRAND NEW ROLL at Ariake !!

Whether you are a sushi pro, a sushi rookie, and even if you don’t like sushi, there is something for everyone on their menus.

Sushi Chef Sasaki has some new tricks up his sleeve this Valentine’s Day and ONLY FOOD ADVENTURES has the scoop…

 

NEW MUST EATS at ARIAKE SUSHI:

—THE CUPID ROLL:
A spicy crab roll, topped with raw tuna, and dabs of spicy mayo. We have fallen in love with this BRAND NEW roll !! A MUST EAT !!!

—THE SURF and TURF ROLL:
A crab sushi roll, topped with a teriyaki beef. Sea and land all wrapped in a sushi roll.

—THE SAKURA ROLL:

Surf and Turf Roll NEW

Sushi rice wrapped with salmon and whitefish, then deep fried in a tempura batter and topped with scallions, spicy mayo, fish eggs and eel sauce. This roll has a zing in the flavor, and is a huge, filling sushi roll!

 

—FRIDAY SPECIAL:
5 pieces of Nigiri (fish on rice), A Handroll, and a California Roll for $9.99.  This is a great deal, as the Nigiri alone would cost more than that if ordered at regular prices.

The Sakura Roll – nice and spicy too !

The secret to Ariake is try things on this huge menu… from Bento Boxes, to Meal Sized Soups, Cooked Sushi or Raw Sushi, you will find and favorite and get hooked like us.  It’s just like being in love ….

This is the inside scoop, you won’t see this featured anywhere else, these are the first sneak peeks !

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY from FOOD ADVENTURES !

 

***DONT FORGET – WIN a $20 GIFT CERTIFICATE to ARIAKE SUSHI !!! ***
Just comment below on why you should win and winner will be chosen at random within 2 weeks. Now is your chance to enter for the opportunity to try some new tastes FOR FREE !

 

Sunset Roll

Join Food Adventures every week right here on Dayton Most Metro for our feature articles that you wont see anywhere else !  We have more scoop than an empty Baskin Robbins…

If you think Miko’s name is familiar … she used to own AKASHI Sushi Restaurant in Dayton.  After she sold it, she waited 3 years and decided come out of retirement.  We are so lucky that she did.  Eat up Miami Valley- try the Japanese Dining room this week with that special someone.  It will be a romantic dinner you won’t forget.  Also, perfect for groups.  Either way, everyone will be impressed !

Follow Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Please feel free to browse the photos below.

Peek into the Japanese Dining Room at Ariake Sushi

FRIDAY SPECIAL – Hand Roll, 5 Nigiri, and a California Roll for 9.99

Sakura Roll

Sunset Roll

Japanese style dining area

59 Fiesta Ln in Miamisburg

Beer and edamame

seaweed salad

Calamari

Katsu Curry

FRESH SUSHI

Shrimp Tempura

Spider Roll

Miso Soup

Sunset Roll

Shrimp Tempura roll

Salmon and Tuna

Kani

Sashimi

Sashimi plate

Sashimi plate

Sashimi Tuna

Lovers Boat

Japanese dining room

Dining room

Dining Area

sashimi plate

Handroll and miso soup

Japanese dining room

Dinner for 2

Cupid Roll

Sakura Roll

 

Hamburger Wagon Rolls into 105th Year + WIN FREE BURGERS !!

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The Hamburger Wagon is approaching its 105th anniversary.  Some love them, some don’t. If you have not tried them yet, what are you waiting for ??  **

** NOW IS YOUR CHANCE, COMMENT BELOW and YOU WILL BE ENTERED TO WIN 10 Burgers or 5 Doubles!**

Sherman “Cocky” Porter in the soaked streets from the 1913 Great Flood

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on the BEGINNING OF THE HAMBURGER WAGON:

The year was 1913. Daytonians know this as the year of the Great Flood of 1913.   The city was decimated by flood waters and finding fresh food that had not been contaminated was tough.  Miamisburg was no exception as floodwaters from the Great Miami River wreaked havoc in the village.  Miamisburg was virtually under water.  In emergency response, the Red Cross set up tents for displaced residents and workers at the top of the Mound Hill.

One of volunteers, made a decision that day, that would change history in Miamisburg.  His name was Sherman “Cocky” Porter. He knew with the cold weather, people needed a warm food which was easy to produce in mass quantities.   He decided on an old favorite family recipe of hamburgers.  The tasty burgers were a huge hit and grew in popularity across the city.

The Book that put The Hamburger Wagon in the top 100 in the USA”

As the floodwaters receded, the tent city closed and life in Miamisburg returned to normal.  But by then an addiction had been started.  Miamisburg residents loved the little “Porter Burgers” so much that he kept up with the demand and served customers everyday.  After the flood, Sherman Porter kept his hamburger wagon open, selling burgers on Saturdays. They were so popular it soon became a full-time operation and the rest is history.  Fast forward to 2018 – One Hundred and Five Years Later, and not much has changed.

HERE’S THE SKINNY on TODAY‘S HAMBURGER WAGON:

—The wagon you see today is not the original on, it is a refurbished , close replica.

 

— in 2018 The Hamburger Wagon menu has 5 items:
Hamburger $1.25
Chips $1.25
Can of Pop $1.25
Double Burger $2.50 

—The burgers are smashed cooked/flash fried in a deep, iron pan in an inch of oil.  They are topped with a round white  onion slice, a pickle sliced long ways.   The burgers are given a shake of salt and pepper.  The result is a one of a kind taste and a signature crunch.

The Legendary Burger from Hamburger Wagon

— On very busy days, the wagon sells around 1,500 burgers

—Super Secret Hamburer Wagon Meat Recipe:  For over 100 years the recipe has been a guarded and secured in a vault of secrecy.  Rumors abound of a little bit of sausage being in the meat, but Food Adventures cannot confirm or deny this.

—The Hamburger Wagon’s mantra is “We don’t need no stinking condiments, no cheeses or sloppy sauces.”

 

Six people have owned the Hamburger Wagon over the century, the latest being Dayton native, Jack Sperry.

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE OWNER, JACK SPERRY:

— In 2008 Jack bought the Hamburger Wagon, and has since launched 2 more mobile wagons for private events, parties

Wagon Owner, Jack Sperry

and festivals.

— Jack is a former All State Football player at Centerville High School for the class of 1980.  He is also an Ohio state graduate.

— Mr. Sperry has 2 daughters and is very involved with Miamisburg happenings.  For example, he is instrumental in organizing the Rock N Green tomato festival each year in Miamisburg.

 

 

NATIONAL RECOGNITION:
The Book “Hamburger America” gave The Hamburger Wagon a national shout out in their book.  The book highlights their opinion of the best 150 hamburgers in the USA.

 

Smashing and splashing – frying up burgers

MUST EATS at the HAMBURGR WAGON:

—THE HAMBURGERS:
You have to try the legend. Take a bite out of the icon with the crisp onion and pickle. Devour the crunchy patty, and take a step back in time. The burger bun also adds to the goodness.

—THE DOUBLE:
The Big Ragu says this is the best thing on the menu. Why? Because the onion can be a little powerful, and the double deadens some of that. Breathe less fire, get the double burger.

 

The bottom line is that if you are bit of a Food Adventurer, you will have already tried these  or will be trying them soon.  Go for the single and double – tell us which one you like better.

*****WANT TO WIN 10 BURGERS or 5 DOUBLES?  You can have lunch with the Big Ragu and Food Adventure Crew on a bench or get them to go .  TO ENTER THE CONTEST COMMENT BELOW AT THE END OF THE PHOTOS *****

Feel free to browse the gallery of photos below.

For more of Dayton’s iconic foods, follow FOOD ADVENTURES on Facebook by clicking here.  Don’t forget to check back each and every week for our feature article right here on Dayton Most Metro !

 

The Double Burger !

Eat this !

Damn strong onion

Line em up !

Fry daddy

Big Ragu thanks you

A Triple Double – Ragu stacked 3 double burgers up

squish, spin, fry and repeat

tucked away like puppies

A Hamburger from the wagon awaits you

Drink choices are water and pops

its a wagon

Ragu says bring in MIKESELLS !

View from downtown

Big Ragu chomps a burger

oooh that onion

No stinkin condiments

Lay em out serve it up

Hurry up – weeze hungry

America at its best

Big or little orders

Pickles and buns

since 1913

We loves dem burgers

Slide a burger on

Big Ragu says try the doubles

Miamisburgs gift to the world

Big Ragu and You – eating burgers on a bench

Food Adventures Share SUPER BOWL Chili Recipes

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Tex Mex Chili Recipe

In our monthly Recipe Feature, The Food Adventure Crew tries to warm you up this chilled time of year.  Not to mention, just in time for the big football game, The Super Bowl.

Speaking of bowl, how about a nice bowl of chili?  Today, the Big Ragu shares his 2 favorite recipes for a hearty bowl of goodness.

One recipe uses Fritos and the other uses Esther Price Candy.

One recipe is a TEX MEX CHILI and the second is his SUPER SECRET CINCINNATI STYLE CHILI RECIPE.

Grab a spoon and maybe even a local beer and welcome to your next home-made Food Adventure.

Chili today, Hot Tamale!

Stovetop or Crockpot method works for this Tex Mex recipe.

RECIPE #1 –
TEX MEX CHILI topped with FRITOS:
(Serves 6 hungry foodies)
You can cook this in crock pot or the stove method. Either way it comes out a winner.
Ingredients
1 Pound Ground Beef
1 Medium Onion Chopped
1 (8 ounce) Can Tomato Sauce
1 (14 ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes
1 (Green Pepper, Diced
1 (15 ounce) Can Red Kidney Beans
1 Package Taco Seasoning
1 Teaspoon Chili Powder
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
1/2 Teaspoon Salt
2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 Bag Fritos Corn Chip
6 TBS Sour Cream
Your favorite Hot Sauce
Jar of cooked jalapeno rings

Large Batches of these chilis are easy to make

Instructions option 1 – Crockpot method
Put all ingredients except cheese, sour cream, fritos and hot sauce into a crock pot, stir and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Ladle into a bowl, top with a dollop of cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, fritos and hot sauce. Add a jalapeno ring.(optional)
Instructions option 2 – Stovetop method
Brown meat with a little oil in a large soup pot.
add tomato sauce, green pepper and onion. Then add diced tomatoes, chili beans, chili seasoning, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and cayenne pepper. Cook 3-4 hours on medium heat stirring occasionally, lower heat if necessary to avoid splashing or heavy boiling.  Scoop into a bowl, top with a dollop of cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, fritos and hot sauce. Add a jalapeno ring.(optional)

 

Now that was a pretty straightforward recipe … this one however is a bit more intense…

 

Big Ragu’s Cinicnnati Chili Recipe includes Esther Price Candies

You can make Cincinnati Style chili like this at home !

RECIPE #2 –
BIG RAGU’s SECRET CINCINNATI STYLE CHILI RECIPE: (uses Esther Price Candy option)
(Serves 8 hungry foodies)
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 pounds ground beef chuck
1 ½ cup chicken broth
Kosher salt
1  six-ounce can tomato sauce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
4 pieces of ESTHER PRICE CANDY or 2 tablespoons chopped unsweetened chocolate
1 tablespoon cider or red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 pinches Freshly ground pepper
12 ounces cooked spaghetti
1 nineteen-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 pound grated cheddar cheese

Instructions:
Heat the oil in a medium Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add half the chopped onions and the garlic and cook until soft, stirring, about 5 minutes. Add the chili powder, paprika, cumin, allspice, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, red pepper and cloves. Cook, stirring, until fragrant. Add the beef and cook the mixture, about 5 minutes stirring, and chopping the beef pieces down to crumbles, until the beef is no longer pink,. Add 1 tablespoon salt.

Brown that ground chuck , baby and stir chop it into crumbles !

Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, bay leaf and 1 1/2 chicken broth ; simmer the mixture for 20 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until slightly thicker. Add the chocolate, beans, vinegar and Worcestershire and cook until the mixture is thickened but still soupy, about 15 more minutes.
Discard the bay leaf and season the chili with the freshly ground pepper.
Divide the spaghetti among bowls and top with the chili, remaining diced onion and cheddar. – you now have a 5 way !
Serve with oyster crackers and your favorite hot sauce.

Alright Food Adventure fans – that’s your chili lesson of the day.
We hope you enjoy these recipes for years to come. They are perfect for parties or cold nights indoors, so WARM IT UP !!

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The Cincinnati Chili recipe when finished and loaded has beans, chii, spaghetti, onions, cheese, and hot sauce on top. Serve with oyster crackers

The Tex Mex recipe is an easy one – slow and low is the key !

DAYTON’s BEST SUPER BOWL FOOD & TRIVIA

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Wings and Rings is the Best place watch a super Bowl in Dayton

This Sunday is a favorite day for the Food Adventure Crew because it involves some of our favorite things… Parties, Foods and Drinks!

Super Bowl Sunday is this week,  and many people will find themselves enjoying, or being dragged to a party of some sort.  Others will stay home, and yet more will go do something entirely unrelated to the big game.

But this traditional weekend has developed more and more into a food fest.

So let’s say you have decided to venture out and about Dayton for the big game.

Considering comfortably, food, crowds and TV locations, we have come up with a few of the BEST places to eat and watch the game …..

 

Lock 27 – a whole brewery at your fingertips

THE 10 BEST RESTAURANTS IN DAYTON TO WATCH THE SUPERBOWL:

1) WINGS & RINGS in CENTERVILLE:
The place has the best TV’s, incredible hand breaded chicken tenders, and is NEVER crowded. This is a PERFECT secret place to watch the game. We don’t understand why this place isn’t packed constantly. Prices are lower than BW3 and the craft beer choices are great. This is THE biggest secret in where to watch sporting events in the Dayton area.
894 S. Main Street, C, Centerville, OH 45458

 

2) LOCK 27 BREWING COMPANY – CENTERVILLE:
Again, sit at the bar and you have the HUGE HD TV’S practically to yourself… oh and you have an entire brewing facility at your fingertips with the gastro-pub food that makes this place so special. Good Eats, Good drinks, Big TV’s and not wall to wall crowds of screaming fans. Try the smoked wings and cheese plate, with a Whipple Tree Beer.
1035 S Main St, Centerville, OH 45458

 

Half of a Super Duper Cheesesteak at Submarine House

3) SUBMARINE HOUSE in BEAVERCREEK:
The Beavercreek location has all the TV’s you need, but not an overfilled atmosphere. The food and beer selection is top notch. Get an Ohio beer and a half Super Duper Cheesesteak with the works. This should hold you ’til halftime.
3195 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek, OH 45434

 

4) ELSA’S BAR DINING AREA in CENTERVILLE:
In the bar area, there is a big projection screen and a half-dozen flat screens around. Time for some Bad Juan’s and Jamaica Jerk Wings. Try the crunchy beef tacos too. Endless popcorn with endless nacho chips.. you will be in football heaven.
6318 Far Hills Ave, Dayton, OH 45459

 

Chips & Salsa are endless at Elsa’s

5) BENNETT’S PUBLICAL in MIAMISBURG:
Perfect spot for good TV views and great food. They have a nice craft beer selection too. This place is a well-kept secret, that the people of Miamisburg know about. It is time other cities know how good food and fun is. Get yourself an Ohio brewed beer and a gorgonzola encrusted filet mignon steak. Or go for the Beer Battered Fish ! Either way it is a touchdown.
67 S Main St, Miamisburg, OH 45342

 

6) MILANO’S ATLANTIC CITY SUBMARINES in BEAVERCREEK:
You can get a light crowd on this night and get one of the HD TVs to yourself. Best bet here is a sub or some pizza. The beers on tap are a decent list, always. Good stuff near the Fairfield Commons mall.
2260 N Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek, OH 45431

 

El Rancho has some good food and big TV’s on McEwen Rd

7) EL RANCHO GRANDE on 725:
Right near the bar are a few TV’s in this place that is a perfect escape to watch the game. The menu is nice and reasonably priced.  Let us recommend some Corona Lights and the Del Mar Trio.  Get some Chile Rellenos as well.
1020 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Washington Township, OH 45459

 

8) BUNKERS in VANDALIA:
No frills sports bar with enough elbow room, that maybe the crowd wont be so bad. Get wings, because the sauces are great. – Get burgers, they are delicious. Scan the beer menu for some good craft beers. They have a good selection here and
893 E National Rd, Vandalia, OH 45377

 

Spinoza’s Margherita PIzza in Beavercreek

9) SPINOZA’S in BEAVERCREEK:
They have some TV’s by certain tables and not many would think of coming here for Super Bowl Sunday. This is a perfect time for yet another great beer selection and some of the best pizza in town. We would suggest a pepperoni, onion, green pepper and mushroom pizza with a local brew. The salads are great too.
2727 Fairfield Commons Blvd, Beavercreek, OH 45431

 

10) ARCHER’S KETTERING, INDOOR PATIO AREA:
The most versatile menu of the bunch. The secret here is to get a seat on the indoor patio by one of the huge HD flat screen TV’s. Once you do that, tune into the game and get a burger. If you try the sweet and sexy wings, you can’t go wrong. In the mood for pizza? They are surprisingly great here.
2030 E Dorothy Ln, Kettering, OH 45420

 

Again, realize the above list is because we believe these places will not be uncomfortably packed and you wont be fighting for a TV spots or tables. Plus the food, drink and TV situation is good.

 

We like Kettering Archers Indoor Patio for Game Options.

Wanna get food “to go” to watch on your own TV ???

 

***BEST 5 DAYTON TAKEOUT PLACES FOR THE SUPER BOWL***

BENJAMIN THE BURGER MASTER in DAYTON:
The best place in town for BBQ wings, you can even pick them up  at the drive thru.
1000 N Main St, Dayton, OH 45405

 

Roast Turkey from City Barbeque

ROCKY’S PIZZA RING in BEAVERCREEK:
Some of the most underrated pizza in town. You wont have to wait in swamped kitchens or busy phone lines. People don’t know about this great place. Get a good pizza from a local mom and pop shop.
3273 Seajay Dr, Beavercreek, OH 45430

 

CITY BARBEQUE:
Get pulled chicken and roast turkey to go with all the sides and sauces. This is the good stuff. Cater it up my friend.
5 E Franklin St, Centerville, OH 45459 and in Beavercreek

 

CHOP SUEY CARRYOUT:
Dayton’s oldest Chinese place is ready for you on Superbowl Sunday. They wont be busy, so you will great service. Get the Shrimp Chop Suey and the Shrimp Chow Mein.
1465 E Dorothy Ln, Dayton, OH 45429

 

Centerville Pizza and BBQ’s Zombie Pizza uses white sauce

CENTERVILLE PIZZA and BBQ:
Broasted wings are the best, and the pulled pork and BBQ sauces are terrific. If you get a pizza , use their white sauce for a change and be blown away. This often overlooked place even DELIVERS !
9470 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Dayton, OH 45458

 

What will you be doing this Gameday? Jax says she traditionally stays home and makes Soft pretzels  with homemade beer cheese!  Hungry Jax also loves Heluva Good French onion dip! Company originated in Sodus, NY!

Big Ragu is going to a Cassano’s Pizza party with friends.

Whether you are headed to a potluck party or a fully catered or cooked gig, chances are you are headed to your own Food Adventure !

HERE’S THE SKINNY THIS YEAR:  PHILADELPHIA vs NEW ENGLAND

Philadelphia –
—Known for Cheesesteaks.
—This city invented Stromboli, Hoagies, Soft Pretzels, Cheese whiz , and sodas like Root Beer.
—Home to the “WING BOWL,” an eating contest that draws 20,000 people.
—The largest cheesesteak ever assembled was in Philadelphia and was the length of a football field.
—The first cream cheese is made in New York in 1880.  Philadelphia is adopted as the brand name because Philadelphia was considered at the time to be the home of top quality food.

New England:
— Known for Clambakes and Chowder
—New England is also known for Lobster, Cod, Cranberries, Maple Syrup and Baked Beans
— When a New Englander says “Creemee” they are referring to soft serve ice cream.
— The sprinkles over the ice cream cones are called “Jimmies” in New England

A Meatball Sub from Milanos is in order

THANK GOODNESS YOU ARE NOT AT THE GAME !!

A soda and pretzel combo costs $17 at the super bowl.  A hot dog is $8.  A 16oz Bud Light is $12.

Good luck, and may the best team win ….

Thank you for reading this week’s Food Adventures article.  We are a local blog, but so much more.  Check out our daily activities on Facebook by clicking here.  No rules, and all original content !

 

 

 

 

Bunkers Bacon Duble Cheeseburger

LOCK 27 wings

Shrimp Chop suey from Chop Suey Carryout

Rockys Pizza Locally Owned

Rocky’s Pizza

Chicken Sandwich at Archers

Pulled Pork from Centerville Pizza and BBQ

Archer’s Sweet and Sexy wings

Local Author Pens Beer Cookbook

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John Lemmon, Author of “Beer Makes Everything Better”

Dayton native John Lemmon has a passion for home brewing beer. He has worked in jobs from restaurant management to corporate property management and has always found time to indulge his brew hobby. He even developed a beer that is served at Star City Brewery in Miamisburg .  It is a session IPA called “Hip Hop o Potamus.”

The Food Adventure Crew’s Big Ragu caught up with John for a couple of beers at Star City, and although we have known John for 20 years. we recently learned of his brewing hobby.

Now he has added author to his resume.  And it is a cookbook of sorts….

The book is called “BEER MAKES EVERYTHING BETTER.” It is subtitled “101 Recipes for Using Beer to Make Your Favorite Happy Hour Grub.”  Click here for info on purchasing the book.

John’s wife is a very successful author of fiction novels and through her dealings, he found himself in the middle of an opportunity to write a book about his passion.  BEER !

John is a true Food Adventurer.  His passion for brews and food is inspiring.

IT IS IN THE GENES:
After a few years of brewing, one of John’s siblings was researching the family tree. As fate would have it, they learned history was repeating itself.  John’s great, great Grampa Johann (John) Grimm, was listed as a brewmaster in the turn of the century census.   Johann Grimm was a brewmaster for 32 years before prohibition put his company out of business.  This coincidence makes you wonder, was John “born to brew ?”

John also runs a fun blog called “That Happy Hour Guy.”  Stay up to date with his activities on this FACEBOOK PAGE

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS:

The book “Beer Makes Everything Better” is selling well, and John just finished a busy book signing event at a Centerville Library.

The book has recipes using all types of beers, and John says you can choose local beers or your favorite large-scale breweries. Check out one of his recipes here BEER BAKED WINGS !

He has some  upcoming gigs you my want to hit.
Feb 3rd  – Star City Brewery Book Signing
Feb 19th – he is at the Dayton Brew Club meeting taking place at Warped Wing Brewery.

Want more scoop on brews and food in the Miami Valley?  Check back for a new Food Adventure article EVERY WEEK right here on DaytonMostMetro.  Follow Food Adventures on Facebook with a click HERE

Enjoy browsing the gallery below.

Successful Authors in love – John and Jessica Lemmon

John making Beer Turkey chili from his cookbook

Beer lover and beer cookbook author, John Lemmon

The locally written book you need to add to your collection !

Who’d You Rather? KFC or Lee’s Famous Recipe ? Win $20 GiftCard

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In a world of fried chicken, 2 chains have battled it out for decades.   They are Kentucky Fried Chicken and Lee’s Famous Recipe. 

The colonel and the rooster have been going head to head for generations. But did you know these restaurants were started by related family members?

Today , Food Adventures heats up the family feud again and pits them against each other, head to head.  Plus, you get a chance to win a $20 gift card, just by commenting on which one is your favorite.

Yes.. you heard right…..

****COMMENT BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN a $20 GIFT CARD TO YOUR FAVORITE ONE****

So we ask you our patented question ….

WHO’D YOU RATHER GET IT ON WITH?
KFC or LEE’s FAMOUS RECIPE??

The Carolina Gold Chicken Little is KFC’s best item.

Comment at the bottom of the article and you can have a shot at winning a $20 gift certificate to tour favorite restaurant.  Don’t be a chicken.. do it !

The Big Ragu from The Food Adventures Crew breaks this one down.  Let’s see how the king of deep-fried food voted …

KFC TALE OF THE TAPE:
Founded by Colonel Harland Sanders, a Kentucky entrepreneur from Corbin, Kentucky who sold his chicken during the Great Depression. Sander’s opened his 2nd store in 1952. It was known as “Kentucky Fried Chicken” until 1991 when they changed the name to KFC. Today it is the 4th largest fast food franchise.

HERE ARE THE PRO’s of KFC:
—The Carolina Gold Chicken Little sandwich is a must eat, it is the best thing on the menu.
—Better Biscuits, no contest… but they always forget to give you butter and honey
—The whole wings are amazing, get 2 original recipe and 2 extra crispy
—Slightly better sides, even the alien “mashed potatoes and gravy”
—The apple pies that are offered at some stores are the same ones McDonalsds had in the 70’s and 80’s – deep-fried ones.
—The popcorn chicken is a winner, Nashville hot sauce will burn yo’ ass.

KFC’s HOT WINGS are no longer longer on the menu everyday – big mistake .

HERE ARE THE CONS’s of KFC:
–corporate made poor decision and got rid of two of their best menu items Honey BBQ Wings and Hot Wings
—KFC is not cheap…they price gouge a little
—They close too early

——————–Now, in the other corner …

LEE’S FAMOUS RECIPE, TALE OF THE TAPE:
After Colonel Sanders sold his franchise in 1962, he agreed to stay on as a promotional employee.  His nephew Lee Cummings worked on a new chicken recipe and in 1966 founded the first Lee’s Famous Recipe Fried Chicken in Lima, Ohio. Today, there are currently 142 Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken locations in 13 states across the USA.  Dayton, Ohio has been a national hot spot and testing ground for Famous Recipe Chicken stores.

Lee Cummings, Colonel Sander’s nephew started Famous Recipe Chicken

HERE ARE THE PRO’s of LEE’s FAMOUS RECIPE:
—The menu has a wider variety of choices country fried steak, oven roasted chicken,  liver and gizzards, white chicken chili, strawberry shortcake, etc..
—They offer an extra crispy SPICY version of their chicken too.
—During Lent they offer Shrimp and fish sometimes
—Nice prices, specials and deals help your wallet.

HERE ARE THE CONS’s of LEE’s FAMOUS RECIPE:
—The chicken is a little to salty
—The biscuits are awful
—The chicken fried steak is like a TV dinner Saulsbury steak

 

BIG RAGU’S VOTE: – KFC IS BETTER …

But what is your vote? Let your voice be heard.  Who’d you rather and why?  What items are your favorites?

A buttery biscuit from KFC – when they remember to give you butter and honey

**Comment below and be entered into our contest to win a $20 Gift Card to your choice of KFC or Famous Recipe.**

Check out Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here…

Food Adventures is a local Dayton blog with a weekly feature article each week right here on Dayton Most Metro.  We leave no plate unturned and pride ourselves on giving you the best scoop on Miami Valley Restaurant food … all of it… NO RULES !

Please feel free to browse more photos in our gallery below.  Don’t forget to comment below for your chance to win.  Winner chosen at random next week.

 

Everybody needs an little KFC

left is KFC Original Recipe and right is Extra Crispy

KFC Biscuits – great if they remember to pack butter and honey for you

Lee’s Famous Recipe Mashed Potatoes and gravy

Country Fried Steak at Famous Recipe – yeah .. no …

Popcorn Shrimp great to dip in hot sauce at KFC

HONEY BBQ WINGS – the best thing KFC ever took off their menu – BRING THEM BACK 4 good

KFC took Hot wings off their menu too .. bad move

Colonel Sander’s and Mommie Dearest Joan Crawford… she was a Pepsi Exec for a while

A box of LEE’S.

Shrimp during lent ? YES !

Extra Crispy chicken from LEE’S FAMOUS RECIPE

Apple Pie at KFC

Nashvile Hot KFC sauce is ‘hot

COLONEL SANDERS And ALICE COOPER

COL SANDERS and JERRY LEWIS

Recipe for refrigerator rolls

Piles of LEE’S CHICKEN !

Famous recipe Extra Crispy Spicy chicken

KFC’s NASHVILLE HOT

Try a chicken little dipped in CAROLINA GOLD SAUCE- it is HEAVEN !

KFC HOT WINGS

Apple Pie at KFC

Lee’s Famous Recipe’s White Chicken Chili,,,,

 

 

 

The Insiders Guide to Dayton’s FISH FRY Season 2018

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“The season has officially started.  Dayton has the best “Fish Fry Season” around! When you hear “fish fry”, the words “boring” or “dull” may come to mind.  Well let me tell you something…Dayton fish fries are nothing of the sort!  Traditionally, fish fries were held on Fridays during the season of Lent as we Catholics don’t eat meat on those days.  However, with the many Catholic parishes/schools and other organizations out there, and the amazing popularity of fish fries, they have expanded to Fridays outside of Lent as well.  At a typical fish fry, you will be able to experience an amazing evening full of fish, chips (fries really), beer, silent auctions, black jack, poker, and much more!  Plus, the cost you pay is significantly less than the amount you would spend on a night out on the town…and it supports a good cause!  So, regardless of whether you are Catholic or not, definitely make a point to “catch” at least one or more of these great fish fries this season.“

The above was the intro to MostMetro’s very first fish fry round up, originally put together by Jane Krebs and it keeps getting bigger every year.  Jane has moved on to other endeavors but we’ve kept up the tradition she started and you can find the area’s most comprehensive  FISH FRY FINDER HERE.  It’s always a work in progress, as many of the area church’s don’t have their their dates out yet ( St Peter, St. Paul, Holy Angles – talk to us!).  So keep checking back for additions, and if you know of one we’ve missed, drop us a comment below. 

St Christophers in Englewood is our #2 favorite

Food Adventures then gives you the in depth scoop on each and every fish fry.  How do we know?  Because we actually go to each one and support the causes each and every year!  NO ONE else breaks down 35 Dayton area fish frys like The Food Adventures Crew … join us…We list the TOP SEASONAL FISH FRYS, and also offer a short list of the BEST RESTAURANT FISH FRYS.

So, cast your nets, throw your bait in the water and see what you can catch this fish fry season !!  We even have scoop on a “Do it yourself Fish Fry”at home !  Read this article and be the smartest fish in your school.  Must be 21 to attend, except for the fish frys that are family events.

 

DAYTON’S TOP 20 FISH FRYS IN ORDER !!!

Our Lady of the Rosary’s desserts are one reason this fish fry is #1

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

Jan 12, Feb 9

 

—2.ST CHRISTOPHERS FISH FRY: 
435 East National Road, Vandalia
$15 cost to enter and it is being run by the Corpus Christi Fryers, so you know it is gonna be great.  Jan 27

—3. ST MARY’S FISH FRY: 
310 Allen St, Dayton
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church.  There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games.  This is one of the best bangs for your buck.  The cost is $15 and you get fish dinner with all the trimmings.  You can buy beers on draft for about 50 cents.  And a dessert table for extra $1 per item will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.  Short lines, nice volunteers and a comfortable atmosphere.  Feb. 2

 

Holy Trinity’s fish Fry is amazing

—4. ST PETER’S FISH FRY: 

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

 

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

 

Hasty Tasty Pancake House Fish Fry refills look like this !

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

 

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

 

—8. DAYTON RUGBY CLUB:
 IUE @ 1675 Woodman Dr, Dayton, OH 45432
 This ranking is because the fish is so good.  Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.  Big lines, but the fish is worth it.  It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish breading.  Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do.  A fun boisterous crowd.  Lots of food, laughs and fun. They  will be serving Warped Wing beer exclusively on  March 16.

Dayton Rugby Club’s Fish Fry is always PACKED!

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

 

St Mary’s Fish Fry is like being in your grandparents basement slinging beers

—10. INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY:
55 Williamsburg Ln, Centerville
Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish frys.  Also a BIG casino after party, with lots of folks. Big Ragu deals blackjack here from time to time, so please come, eat, drink and be merry.  This event gets extra points for decor and silent auction.  Typically the cost is about $18 and includes all you can eat fish, sides and soda pop.  Craft beer for sale too, the biggest selection of the fish frys.  March 9

 

—11. CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL’S ST PAT’S FEST FISH FRY: 
4524 Linden Ave.  Dayton
Everyone is Irish for this fish fry celebration.  $18 is admission gets you fish, sides and some draft beers. Held in the cafeteria and gymnasium, they have a baked fish option and lots of desserts.  A friendly staff, with tons of silent auction items, raffle prizes and of course some games of chance.  Will you hit the luck of the Irish at this party?(March 11th is a free family event). March 9

 

y

 

St Paul’s Fish Fry

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

 

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

 

—13. ST PAULS CATHOLIC CHURCHFISH FRY: 
 1000 Wenger Rd, Englewood
(They already held their fish fry in December, catch them later this year, it is worthwhile).

 

Breaded goodness at Holy Angels Church

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

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

Sit at the Bar for Yankee Trace’s fish Fry ..

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

 

crowd, nice big pieces of Alaskan pollok.

 

—18. ST ALBERT THE GREAT FISH FRY: 
3033 Far Hills Ave, Dayton
$20 at the door gets you a full, endless fish dinner.  In the past the Hecht family has run this fish fry.  Nice, big pieces of fish, breaded and cooked perfectly.  You should get a couple of beer tickets with admission as well.   Jan 19

 

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

 

 

St Francis’ Fish fry in Bellbrook

—20.  ALTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FISH FRY: 
940 E David Rd, Kettering
The Dayton area’s largest fish fry, it is a sight to behold.  Located at Alter High School gym and cafeteria, it is a huge display of casino games and a gigantic amount of silent auction prizes.  $15 gets you all you want fish, sides and pop.  Beer and wine, is extra.  Promises to draw a big crowd. If you want the big, Grandaddy of them all event .. this is it … Say hi to the Big Ragu who will be dealing blackjack.  Feb 26

 

—21. CHAMINADE JULIENNE’S FISH FRY: 
505 South Ludlow Street, Dayton 
Cost is $20 at the door includes all the beer and food you want.  We love this all-inclusive approach and the fish is good so this one is the best up and coming fish fry.  Held in the school they get a great crowd, get there early as lines form!  March 24

 

St Charles Fish Fry

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


—23. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY: 
4293 Powell Road, Huber Heights
The menu includes beverages, both fried and baked fish, sausage, chicken nuggets, beans, corn, macaroni and cheese, and all the fixings. The price is $14 for adults.  Feb 16, April 20, May 18

 

—24. ST. HENRY’S FISH FRY:
6696 Springboro Pike, Dayton
They have a live auction and Texas hold em too !  Price is about 16 bucks for the all you can eat typical fish dinner with fries and slaw.  Have fun and gamble.  The atmosphere is very relaxed and jovial at this fun fish fry.  Feb 9

 

 

St Albert the Great’s Fish Fry

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

 

 

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

 

SEVEN MORE FISH FRYS  WE HAVE NOT TRIED YET….

Chaminade Jullienne’s steaming weeneys

THEY ARE ON OUR HIT LIST IN 2018:


—. K.J.’S RESTAURANT:
35 W Center St, Germantown
This Germantown restaurant features all you can eat farm raised catfish, 2 sides, for $8.99.  What a price!  The catfish is rumored to be nice and flaky and not “fishy.”  We can’t wait to check this one out !

 

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

 

 

—. BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL FISH FRY:

 

6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
$12 in advance gets you fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw and more!! Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop and more) also included.  Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!  Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.  Feb 17

 

Baked Fish option at Carroll High School

—. EINTRACHT SINGING SOCIETY FISH FRY: 
2707 Old Troy Pike, Dayton
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, and Cole Slaw.  Soda & draft beer included in the price so, for $14 a person, it is all you can eat night !  Jan 12, Feb 2, March 2, and May 4

 


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

 

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

 

 

Tom Patterson of Foremost Seafood can hellp you do a large or small fish fry yourself !

—.ST. BRIDGID FISH FRY:
312 Fairground Road, Xenia
Sounds like besides a great fish fry, they will have lots of casino games like Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo.  Tickets are $15 for this one.  March 2

 

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


— FOREMOST SEAFOOD‘S “DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY”:  Here is an option you wont see anywhere else.  How about hosting your own fish fry party?  Foremost Seafood, off of Woodman Drive, sells everything you need to make sure you have the perfect party.  And you can pick which type of fish you want.  From Catfish, Walleye, Haddock, Perch, pollack, to tilapia and much more.  Call (937) 298-1986, ask for Tom to talk about your fish fry.  It will be the freshest fish fry you will ever taste, with the fish usually being about 3 days out of the water !

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

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Alter HS FIsh Fry

St Helen Frish Fry

The fish from Incarnations Fish Fry

St Anthony’s Fish Fry

St Henry’s Fish Fry

St Luke’s Fish Fry has a baked option