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Dayton Dining

WHERE IN ‘THE WORLD’ YOU CAN FIND GREAT ASIAN FOOD!

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‘I can’t find it!’

‘I see it but Ican’t get over there!’

‘My GPS says I’m Here?’

Oh, the many remarks on your way to ‘Taste of the World’ restaurant in Moraine. (400 Fuyao Avenue, Moraine, OH 45439.) But rest assured, persistence pays off in this well-appointed, authentic aAsian restaurant. Seating is plentiful, with modern lighting and big comfy booths for larger groups.

 

Tucked away near the Fuyao plant, ‘Taste’ provides a spicy and scrumptious tribute to all things Northern China. The decor is bright and inviting, and the large private rooms provide the Lazy Susan, for the ‘family share’ we all love.
Martinis, wine and some great Asian beer choices, give the perfect pairing to a dinner full of fresh ingredients and crispy veggies.

I am no food expert, but we filled our Lazy Susan with samples galore, just for this article!
From the top, we wanted to make sure we delved into some different flavors…and they were plentiful. We chose three starters, and be warned, spicy here is SPICY. The east peking meat pie is a great jump-in, with crispy edges and flavorful smooth center, the Szechaun sauce gives it the perfect kick. Don’t miss the Sichuan fried green beans, touch of salt, blackened edges, and great ‘snap,’ they were a bug yum! We through in one traditional item, some hot-sour soup. It was pleasantly BOTH. If it’s not to your ‘heat’ level, just ask….they have a remedy for that!

Next we chose a seafood, fish, pork and beef option. The shredded pork, which came with garlic sauce, was prepared to perfection. The aroma alone was delicious. Then we sampled the sliced beef in hot chili oil, and sampling was about all I could handle. Great flavor, and then plenty of water! Next, we had the baked soft shell crab with rice cakes, and they were the perfect follow-up to the spicier beef option. Crispy, and flavorful, the crab was simple and easy to eat. Lastly, and by far the favorite was the braised whole fish. If I were to ask for seconds on anything, this is the winner. Salted, buttery and melt in your mouth good, I commented to the waitress how I found it to be, and she said ‘my favorite too!’ Try it….wow!

The menu really is extensive. It goes from appetizers to noodles, beef to pork, chicken to seafood, dry pots to pastries. Your bases are covered.

As a favor, to you our faithful readers, I am giving you the ‘easy way to ‘Taste.” If you know how to get on West Dorothy Lane toward Moraine, you’ve got it made. Take West Dorothy Lane, past that giant Wal-Mart. Turn left on Encrete Lane. Follow Encrete for about 1/2 mile to Holye Place. Turn right…and there it is!

It’s tucked away, secluded and a ‘World’ away from most Asian places! ENJOY!

Family Owned Eatery to Release House-Made Marinara

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Giovanni’s Italian Restaurante will be holding a special one-night event, Will You Marinara Me? Giovanni’s Marinara Release and Dinner, on February 11th beginning at 5:30 PM. This marinara filled event will feature several dishes all using Giovianni’s House-Made Marinara, which will also be for sale in 32oz jars for the first time.

 

This family-friendly event will also include activities celebrating Valentine’s Day and a door-prize raffle.  A portion of proceeds for the event and marinara sales will be donated to the American Heart Association in the spirit of Valentine’s Day and the season of love.

 

Manager, Cassaundra Spaziani shares how excited Giovanni’s is for this new product and fundraising event. “Offering our signature marinara sauce to the public is something we wanted to do for a while now. Here at Giovanni’s, we are all about community and family, and sharing a meal is a great way to bring members of a community and families together.” Spaziani continues with her passion for helping others, “Being part of a community is lending a helping hand to those around you. It’s important to us to help others whenever we can. That’s why we are donating a portion of proceeds to the American Heart Association.”

 

This is the perfect night to come out and sample a wide variety of marinara inspired dishes, eat with friends or a loved one, and celebrate Valentine’s Day. Entry and dinner is only $10 per person with a cash bar available to those 21 and over. You must RSVP by February 10th to ensure entry.

Make sure to reserve your placeby calling the restaurant at 937-878-1611.

Giovanni’s Fairborn
215 W Main St
Fairborn, Ohio
(937) 878-1611
Hours
Monday – Closed
Tue. – Thur.: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Fri. and Sat.: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sun.: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Coco’s Brunches are Back for February

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Every Sunday in February, brunching becomes beautiful! It’s time for “SAVOR YOUR SUNDAYS,” the only time of the year you can experience a specially curated brunch menu of delicious entrees at CoCo’s Bistro benefitting Stivers School for the Arts!

If you’ve ever been, you already know how WONDERFUL these Sundays are! And if you haven’t, 2019 is the PERFECT year to make it a new family tradition!

Limited seating available and each Sunday features talented performing arts students from the different music magnets. ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 
There is also a signature silent auction of one of a kind works of art ? ?by Stivers adjuncts and area artists!

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED, so call ☎️937.228.COCO (2626) TODAY!

 

The Root Beer Stande Opens Sat with 99 Cent Floats!

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rootbeer float

We may be in for some extreme cold in the next couple of days, but the weather forecast for Saturday is in the 40’s and an even better prediction that spring is coming is the opening of the The Root Beer Stande for the season, which is scheduled for this Saturday, February 9th!  To celebrate mug sized floats are $.99 all day

Not familiar with this Dayton favorite?  Here’s what our Food Adventure Crew has to say:

There is nostalgia, fun, good eats, and great drink.  Located at 1727 Woodman Drive, this restaurant has been a Dayton summertime staple since at least the 1960’s.  Originally an A&W Root Beer Stand, it changed to The Root Beer Stande decades ago, delivering great, casual food ever since.  Gone are the rollerskating waitresses, but much has remained the same over the decades.

A Dayton Summer Tradition – The Root Beer Stande

This place is  a “Drive-in” where patrons drive up, park and are served in their vehicle by “car-hops” who work on tips, just like waitresses.  There is  car port parking where oldies tunes are heard overhead on a speaker system.   Parking is also available in various uncovered spots around the building.  It is a great dining experience, and the young staff is very friendly.  When they are busy, you may have to wait a little bit to get your food, so don’t go there if you are in a hurry.   The fun begins when you pull in, and one of the cute servers slaps a small plastic sheet on patron’s windshields with a serving number.  After your order is taken, make sure you roll your window up a third, so they can place the tray with your food on the window as an overhang.  One little known tradition is that putting your car headlights on lets the server know that you are ready to leave and need to have your tray removed.

Happiness in a Mug

The Big Ragu have been frequenting this establishment since 1973 and has some recommendations.  First and foremost, nothing beats one of their cold root beers on a hot summer’s day.  In our opinion, this is the star of the menu and of course their namesake.  Homemade root beer with an original taste is why we love it.  Our tip here is to make sure and order the root beer in a glass mug, because it just doesn’t taste as good in paper “to go” cups.  The root beer here is so good, that your Food Adventurers have been known to order a second mug during the meal.

The Big Ragu loves a good hot dog and The Root Beer Stande serves up some decent “short dog” and “footlong” options.  We usually get the footlong hot dog.  It is simple and the taste is a great memory from our childhood.   Various topping choices include mustard, relish, chili, ketchup, onions and more.  Grab one and enjoy the view.

The Big Ragu loves their hamburger options and usually grabs a “Ladyburger.”  Yes, we realize the name of this smaller hamburger may be a bit embarrassing, but The Big Ragu is in touch with his feminine side from time to time.   The Big Ragu also recommends that you try the deep fried mushrooms.  Beware, these breaded mushrooms are made to order and served hot, so do not scald yourself by biting into one of these crispy, yet juicy treats.

Nothing fancy – just an irresistible footlong topped with chili and onions

Other favorite menu items include Root Beer Floats and Onion Rings.  The two page menu can be viewed by clicking here for page 1 and here for page 2.   The Root Beer Stande is not just for summer anymore!  The owners have extended season hours, making this spot on Woodman Drive available almost year-round!

Take some time to make The Root Beer Stande your destination this summer.  Kids love this place, and the family, fun atmosphere promises to produce memories that will last a lifetime.   Summer may heat up, but you can always cool down at The Root Beer Stande with a mug of Root Beer!

 

800 Gallons of Soup at Voltzys!

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Rick Volz Steams Cabbage for his famous Cabbage Roll Soup

800 Gallons of Soup ????  That is the amount of soup that Voltzys Rootbeer Stand sells each winter … because they are just that damn good.

All of the soups are personally made by the owner…. from scratch.

The burger expert known for his sharp insulting wit, is also becoming our own local version of Seinfeld’s “Soup Nazi.”

If you don’t get razzed at Voltzy’s by the owner Rick Volz, then you might feel left out.  He is known for his one liners, verbal jabs, complaints, zingers and humor, all of which take a couple trips to get used to …

Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup has a bit of spiciness

From our Food Adventures with Voltzy over the past 10 years we have learned this about Voltzy’s
1) Know that he loves when you eat on his patio during the summer months.
2) He loves when you call your orders in ahead of time …. and
3) He will give you grief if you stray from his menu on how the sandwiches come, condiments etc,, but he grudgingly abides.. eventually.

Rick, a Ft. Wayne, Indiana native, is making winter a bit warmer with his hot soup choices that he has been selling for over 25 years.
He usually features ONE SOUP AVAILABLE PER DAY.

What are they you ask?

VOLTZY’S SOUPS

****Note all soups are 3 bucks****

Sign outside Voltzys

— CABBAGE ROLL SOUP:
The most popular and the best soup… it is also available for $45 a gallon with 4 days notice . It is worth it. A perfect cross of spicy, sweet, cabbage and mix of veggies and crumbled meat.

—CHEESEBURGER SOUP:
His famous burger meat simmered with tomatoes and onions, and secret spices. Goodness in a cup.

—POLISH VEGETABLE SOUP – KALUSHKA
Kalushka?? It is a Polish soup! It has a chicken broth base, ham, potatoes, butter, cabbage and get this…the kicker is BACON and BEER! How can you go wrong with that?

Cream of Vandalia Onion

—CREAM OF VANDALIA ONION:
He uses Vidalia onions, but this wise guy calls the soup Cream of Vandalia as a play on Dayton. It is creamy, the onions are soft and sweet. It is an amazing soup and a perfect winter “pick me up.” The best named soup in Dayton.

—CHICKEN TORTILLA:
He shreds chicken and adds Mexican spices. This isn’t your typical tortilla soup. All of Voltzy’s soup have his unique touch and taste.

—CHILI:
A meaty, slightly spicy chili with onions and beans. He also will put this over fries for “Sammy’s Chili Cheese Fries Order”

 

Chili on the fries at Voltzys

WHAT ELSE TO EAT AT VOLTZY’S

If you have never been to Voltzy’s you are not only missing out on these fantastic soups, but you are missing out on the best cheeseburgers in town.  He gets the meat ground fresh every day, never frozen.  From there the magic of the grill and the ingredients speak for itself.

May we suggest these two “ MUST EATS ”

Try the Sliders with the soup

  1. Get the 10 SLIDER CHEESEBURGERS for $12 deal.  Each slider has grilled onions, cheese and sweet heat mustard.
  2. “THE HOG” a delicious, monstrous 20 oz CHEESEBURGER with grilled onions, grilled onions, cheese and sweet heat mustard.

The burgers are so fresh, they melt in your mouth.  It is really a one of a kind recipe, he has going.

Cup of Cabbage Roll Soup

Get to Voltzy’s and get an original taste of one of Dayton’s finest..

ADDRESS:
4668 N Springboro Pike
Moraine, OH 45439
Call in your order :  (937) 299-1440

The hours are sparse, so get there and get there early !!  Sometimes they sell out, so you have been warned.  We are currently getting a petition with signatures to force him to stay open longer…

HOURS:
MON 11am-2pm
TUES 11am-2pm
WED11am-2pm
THUR 11am-2pm
FRI 11am-2pm
SAT 11am-2pm
SUN CLOSED

Call in your order ahead of time !!
Phone: (937) 299-1440

The food is great, the prices are great, and as always,  INSULTS ARE FREE !

Feel free to browse the gallery below.

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then Food Adventures is your home !  Look for our column here each and every week tackling everything edible about Dayton.  Follow us for daily photos on Facebook by clicking HERE and liking our page.

The 20 ounce Hog Cheeseburger

Empty soup

Cabbage Roll Soup – freshly made

Cup of Cabbage Roll Soup

Storefront

Cabbage Roll Soup

His food is #1

A pot of Cabbage Roll Soup

Stirring a pot of Cabbage Roll Soup

2 Yellow Springs Restaurants Take A Winter Break

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Brian Raney, Chef/owner of Calypso Grill and Smokehouse has been warning of their winter hibernation on social media for a couple of weeks.  He shared that is a much needed rest for him and his staff  after a busy holiday season and restaurant week.  The eatery  that features authentic Latin-Caribbean cuisine opened last March at 1535 Xenia Avenue. After They’ll be ready to reopen on Friday, February 8th so you can enjoy their empanadas, jerk chicken and lovely rum cocktails!

Their sister restaurant the Sunrise Cafe, which serves local, with love from scratch at breakfast, lunch and dinner will also take a break until Feb 8th.

Charlie Campbell Says “More Cold, Cold, Cold And It’s Great In Dayton!”

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National Plan for Vacation Day is celebrated the last Tuesday in January as a day to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the rest of the year at the start of the year. The Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau is encouraging residents to take advantage of the amazing attractions and events here in Dayton and Montgomery County.
Burning River Winds is an oboe, bassoon and piano trio with a long history in the Miami Valley area. They are performing at Hayner’s Drawing Room on Tuesday 7:30pm and it is free.
Wednesday morning Yoga Class. Janet Sweeney is back with her wonderful yoga class for ALL body types! Her classes provide a great workout while being sensitive to each individual’s needs. Class is offered every Wednesday morning, 10:15 – 11:15 am in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Oakwood. $5 per person. Drop in or attend regularly.
Unwind Series: Techno Yoga. Be prepared to move & sweat as instructor Ranjani guides you through the moves & funky beats. Feel the music with heart-pounding techno and leave feeling pumped. Join after the session for a cold drink from the cash bar. Please bring your own mat. $15. PNC Arts Annex, Thursday, 6pm.
February 1 First Friday: Local Love Edition. It’s been a cold, snowy January, and downtown Dayton businesses are ready to heat things up for the February 1 First Friday.
The Dutoit Gallery has a solo exhibition of artist Sam Kelly which consists mostly of inventive still-lifes and portraits. Incorporating various materials into his work, such as oil paint, oil pastel, sand and marble dust, Kelly’s paintings take on an enigmatic and non-descriptive quality. According to Kelly, “the paintings begin with a vague idea, often going through a rigorous additive and subtractive process.” The paintings are modest in subject but intense in their visual energy. First Friday, from 6 to 9 pm
Contra dancing is fun and dynamic with
Instruction at 7:30pm and Dancing 8 to 11pm. Dance patterns are performed by couples in two lines. A caller provides instruction before each dance begins and prompts dancers as the dance begins and throughout the dance when needed. The music is The Corndrinkers.Friday, Michael Solomon Pavilion in Kettering, OH
Houseplants and Health: Yours and Theirs. Houseplants provide great health benefits, as well as keep your winter home colorful. Learn the scoop on popular varieties and how to place and maintain them for optimum pleasure and health. Cox Arboretum MetroPark, Saturday, 10 to 11:30am. AGE: 18 and up | $10.00.
Local filmmaker Clint Bramlette has announced he’ll be shooting a feature film here in the Miami Valley this spring, The Color of The Sun. There is a casting call for this on Saturday with over a dozen roles to be based locally.
Valentine’s Victorian Afternoon Tea at Patterson Homestead! Have an authentic three course tea service served by costumed interpreters and learn about the Patterson family. Sunday, 2 to 4pm.
The film Shift Change shares the stories of worker-owned cooperative businesses across the U.S.A. and in Spain. Featured co-ops include Evergreen in Ohio, Isthmus Manufacturing in Wisconsin, and Prospera in California. This is at at 444 E. 2nd St, on Tuesday, February 12th at 5:30pm.
“News” In Dayton
Leeli + Lou is a new store in Oakwood.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Dayton has so many interesting classes. Spring 2019 Seminars Online registration begins Monday, February 4 at 9am.
One of these instructors gets this IGID Newsletter!
Humane Society of Greater Dayton just have to share this adorable photo one of their staff members took of this adorable litter of kittens! They came to them so little and fragile and thanks to one of our amazing Foster families, they have grown to be strong and healthy little kittens! They are available for adoption now, so please head to their main shelter today and meet them!
Why this fish fry is a cut above the rest.Corpus Christi Fish Fryers going strong since 1990. Most local fish fries are as much a story of food as they are community, history and service.
And when it comes to a fish fry helmed by the Corpus Christi Fryers this couldn’t be more true. Now in its 29th year, the group was formed by a group of parents who banded together in 1990 over deep-fried, golden flaky fish as a way to fund the athletic association at Corpus Christi School.
One of these chefs gets this IGID Newsletter

There’s a New Bloody Mary Champ in Town

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The Mandalay Banquet Center was the hot spot for breakfast cocktails today as the 4th Bloody Mary Showdown kicked off this morning at 11am.   Produced by Planned2Give this fundraiser pitted nineteen area bartenders against each other, all putting their own twist on this classic cocktail, powered by Svedka Vodka. VIP ticket holders started the morning off with a buffet breakfast before the taping and at 11:45am the doors opened to general admission ticket holders as well making for a packed house!  There were spicy drinks, and sweet drinks and even a green tomato bloody mary.  Garnishes ranged from home make pork rinds, to shrimp, chicken wings, cheese, tomatoes, pickles and some glasses had rims dusted with celery salt, spices and so much more!

Participating bartenders from :

Archer’s Tavern, Bargo’s, Bar Granta, Brixx Ice Company, Calypso Grill & Smokehouse, Dewberry 1850, Fift h Street Brewpub, Jimmie’s Ladder 11, Meadowlark, Miami Valley  Gaming, Milanos, Papi Joe’s Tennessee Pepper Sauce Company, The Barrel, TJ Chumps, Troll Pub, Trolley Stop, Tuty’s Bar & Grill and Wheat Penny.

The Winner from the last two years, Scott Conrad, who competed from The Vue,  retired from competition, but was still on hand sampling his winning mix, now being bottlled and sold at retail as RAD’S Bloody Mary Mix.  Pictured to the right with Scott is Heather Robinson, who was the liquor rep who helped pull off the original Showdown several years ago.

Also on hand to sample their canned cocktails was Cutwater Spirits, a new entry into the Dayton market.  Their pre-mixed cans are just perfect for cabrewing or tailgating!

 

At 1:45pm  the 50/50 raffle was drawn and $750 was raised for FilmDayton, this years charity partner, while  Angela Wooten from Piqua walked away with $750.  Raffle prizes including Snow Globes from Stewardship Resources, local restaurant gift certificates and 937 Party Bus. were also auctioned off and finally at 2pm the winners were declared:

 

Best Table Decor:  TJ Chumps

Best Garnish:  TJ Chumps

Deviled egg with a candied bacon

Best Bloody Mary:

3rd place: The Bloody Derby made with Old Forester created by Brook Paxon of The Troll Pub

The Troll Pub’s bloody started with a splash of Old Forester bourbon, then bloody mix, and lastly Svedka vodka!

2nd place: Papi’s Sassy Bloody Mary Mix by  by Vicki Wedworth of Papi Joe’s Tennessee Pepper Sauce Company

Papi Joe’s finished 3rd last year, moved up to 2nd this year!

Dayton’s Best Bloody Mary for 2019: Berzelsass’s Best Bloody created by Jenn Elsass from TJ Chumps in Miamisburg. Jenn walked away with $500 and bragging rights!

 

 

So if you were paying attention, first time participant TJ Chumps swept the awards this year.

A view of the raffle table during the VIP Hour.

 

These ladies were decked out with Bloody Mary Glasses they made!

Bargos Agave Maria was made with a green tomato base!

It was great to have Tuty’s back this year!

Brixx garnished their cocktail with a custom made omelette!

 

Miami Valley Gaming took a gamble on the competition!

 

We heard the Meadowlark’s Bloody was an easy swilling not to spicy drink!

 

Trolley Stop offers one of the area’s best make your own bloody bars every Sat & Sun.

 

First time participants Calypso Grill serve up a great brunch at their place!

 

Tara was our ARTINI champ last year, and makes a great Bloody Mary as well!

 

Jenna from The Barrel joined us for the 2nd year!

 

McDonald’s To Host ‘Bacon Hour’

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MickeyD’s will be hosting a bacon happy hour  on Tuesday, January 29th from 4-5pm !

That’s right, for one hour only, the fast-food chain will hold a “Bacon Hour” so customers in participating stores across the country can put free thick-cut, Applewood-smoked bacon on anything they order from the McDonald’s menu.

Yes you read that right, free bacon.

On anything.

In the entire McDonald’s menu.

Want bacon on your Chicken McNuggets? Sure thing, buddy, go knock yourself out.

Bacon on a Filet-O-Fish? Aquaman just might approve.

Bacon on a Hot Caramel Sundae? Surprisingly salty stuff goes really well with sweet treats.

The limited time event is meant to promote the Jan. 30 nationwide launch of McDonald’s new trio of bacon items: the Big Mac Bacon burger, Quarter Pounder Bacon burger and Cheesy Bacon Fries. Both burgers will come with three slices of bacon each while the Cheesy Bacon Fries will come with bacon bits.

 

OMP – Oh My Pie !

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One of our Food Adventures to Partial to Pie Bakery

Pie season began around Halloween and in Dayton, it is still flying high into 2019, partly due to a new bakery on Shroyer Ave.

If you’re one to follow the news about the places to eat in our area, by now you’ve probably heard of a local bakery that has been named “Best Pie Shop in Ohio” by USA today only five month’s after it’s opening last summer. Partial to Pie Bakery has taken Dayton pie lovers by storm!  The Food Adventures Crew went to check them out and it was clear as to why this place is loved so much by Dayton’s foodies.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY on PARTIAL TO PIE BAKERY:

—Local father-daughter team, Mike and Marie Clark have been keeping family recipes alive for their whole lives. What started out as baking for friends and family, eventually grew into baking for festivals and events. It was clear that they were onto something special.

The menu of pie offerings

—The Clarks opened up their brick and mortar location on July 31, 2018. Since the article in USA today ran, Partial to Pie Bakery has been selling out on a daily basis and has been working hard to keep up with the demands of Miami Valley’s appetites!

—Marie stated that they get to the bakery at about 5am every day to prep and then continue to prepare pies for the next day after they close.

Comfortable and casual dining

—When you walk into their shop (located at 200 Shroyer Rd), you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.  The tables and chairs are like those from our grandmother’s kitchens. And we were smitten with the old dishes and mugs that the pies are served on!

— Our biggest tip is GET THERE EARLY !
Hours are:
Tuesday-Friday 7am – 5:30pm
Saturday 7am – pm
CLOSED Sunday and Monday

And then, there are the pies. Oooooo my.

Partial to Pie prides themselves on using local ingredients whenever possible. Their creations range from fruit pies to cream/custard pies and even savory quiches!  You have the option of buying a whole pie, slice, mini pie, or a pie pocket (which is like a handheld pie you can eat on the go!).

 

MUST EATS at PARTIAL TO PIE BAKERY:

 

BLT Quiche –  The Star of the Show

—THE BLT QUICHE:
This quiche is so light and tasty! Filled with bacon, leaks and tomatoes, it’s the perfect meal for any time of day!  We had a slice, but we could see ourselves getting an entire pie for a family dinner.  This was one of Jackie’s favorites and arguably their best menu item.  It was cooked perfectly leaving a nice flaky crust and a slightly crunchy top.  We had to have a moment to take this one all in.

 

—THE APPLE CRUMB PIE:
This pie took us back to our grandmother’s kitchen! The crumb topping was fantastic and crispy! It melted in your mouth. A Food Adventure time warp for sure.  OMP !  That’s OH MY PIE !

She’s my Cherry PIe

—CHERRY PIE:
Slightly tart, slightly sweet, this one surprised us a bit. Packed with cherries, was extremely flavorful and perfect with a glass of milk. It didn’t last long on the Big Ragu’s plate! A rare treat and a must eat.  It will have you singing in your chair that 80’s tune Cherry Pie by Warrant.

 

 

Banana Cream Pie

—BLUEBERRY PIE POCKETS:
Jax’s kids devoured these mini treats! You can’t beat the flaky crust on these!  They are not only perfect for  little ones (not so messy), but they are great on the go.  Take one with you on the drive to work when you are in a hurry.  Soft, flavorful goodness that will have you making yum yum noises.

 

Blueberry Pie Pocket

—THE BANANA CREAM PIE:
This was the Big Ragu’s favorite. It has it all, creamy pudding, bananas, a wonderful crust and that layer of whipped cream. Each forkful is a dream. Served chilled the cold pie hits your mouth with a refreshing burst of silkiness. Get a whole pie, like now … before they run out.

 

—THE BLACKBERRY PIE:
We got this to go for another Food Adventure, because even though we tried the whole menu, you cant eat 14 pieces of pie in a sitting (although we came close). This was the best of the ones from our next trip. The blackberry pie is surprisingly one of the last remaining pies and we cannot figure out why. It is absolutely delicious with the berry taste, slightly exotic and a small bit of seed crunch. Again the balance of tart and sweetness is perfect and the crust is cooked perfectly. They have the formula down for fruit pies.

Blackberry Pie

Honorable Mention:
Sweet Chorizo Quiche – this is a limited time special! The savory chorizo is balanced out with sweet potatoes and onions. Fantastic for brinner (That’s Brunch and Dinner). If you ask us to share we will tell you to Quiche our azz.

 

They offer so many options from Peach Mango to Special pies you can request for a future pickup.  Tell you what, it’s better if you just trust us and head on down there asap!

We came, we saw, we conquered

One important thing to note. Planning on ordering a pie for a special occasion? You’ll need to do so 2 business days out.

 

Partial to Pie has been selling out so fast, there is no guarantee that whole pies will be available when you visit. It’s best to order ahead of time if you know you are wanting one for a certain day. Think of the time you’ll save for the holidays!

 

Finally, two things we can assure you of: we are partial to pie, and we will be back!

Thank you for reading this week’s Food Adventure feature article.  Check back for our column, each and every week, exclusively, right here on DaytonMostMetro.   Follow Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Feel free to browse more photos below from our trips to Partial to Pie Bakery.

 

 

 

 

Display Case

Logo

Mugs and plates borrowed from grandmas houses

This little girl picked out her pies and walked out like a boss

We came, we saw, we conquered

Have a slice

WOWSA

Blackberry

Peach PIe

 

 

Who Makes Daytons Best Bloody Mary?

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The Bloody Mary Showdown coming up Sunday, January 27th at the Mandalay Banquet Center, is a competition amongst area bartenders seeking to find Dayton’s  features Chicago’s Bloody Mary.  Guest will get to sample the  bloodies from the competitors and vote on their favorite, crowning Dayton’s best Bloody Mary. The competition is sponsored by Svedka Vodka, which will be provide to all the contestants, the mix and the garnish will be where each bartender can differentiate themselves.

Scott Conrad, retired Champion

In the first showdown, Mack from Mack’s Tavern was crowned champion, the next year there was a tie between Mack and Scott Conrad from The Vue.

Last year Scott Conrad reigned supreme and this year Scott has retired from competition to promote and distribute his RADS award winning mix,  but will still be on sight sampling his Bloody Mary.
That leaves the field wide open in for bartenders eager to showcase their coveted concoctions to claim the crown
in this 4th year of competition. Besides bragging rights, the winner walks with $500.  Prizes are also awarded for best Garnish and best table decor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Participants for the 2019 Showdown are:

 

Aaron and Victoria Archer’s Tavern
Aimee Plesa Bargo’s Grill and Tap
Gina Brixx Ice Company
Shaun Craig Calypso Grill and Smokehouse
Dan Mahoney Dewberry 1850
Mary Van Kirk Fifth Street Brewpub
Nick Brandell & Brad Hull Jimmie’s Ladder 11
Nik Hunt Meadowlark Restaurant
Shawn Pence Miami Valley Gaming
Tara Goffe Milanos
Charlynda Scales Mutt’s Sauce LLC
Vicki Wedworth Papi Joe’s Tennessee Pepper Sauce Company
Jenna Reinhard The Barrel in Springboro
Jenn Elsass TJ Chumps
Brook Paxson Troll Pub
Mary Grahm Trolley Stop
Brittany Nicely Tuty’s Bar & Grill
Drew Mains Wheat Pennny

Tickets for the Showdown are available online and proceeds of the Bloody Showdown help a different nonprofit each year.  In previous years the event has benefitted ARC Ohio (now Equitas) the Greater Dayton LGBT Center, The First Tee of the Miami Valley  and for 2019 FilmDayton will be the beneficiary.

proceeds benefit FilmDayton

VIP Tickets $50
Include a buffet breakfast, entry at 11am and 12 tastes

General Admission Ticket $25
include entry and 8 tasting tickets

Designated Driver $5
This ticket gives you entry into the event but does NOT include drinks.

Warped Wing Celebrates 5th Anniversary

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Warped Wing Brewing Co. to celebrate their 5th anniversary with their annual Anniversary Beer Bash on Saturday, January 19th.  In a statement they sent out they shared:

“We can hardly believe it’s already been 5 years since we first opened the doors to Warped Wing – and that calls for a little celebration! We hope you’ll join us on Saturday, January 19th, starting at noon for our 5 Year Anniversary Beer Bash. We’ll be tapping various beers from our library throughout the day as well as releasing limited barrel aged bottles & draught of our signature Anniversary brew, Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter. All bottles are $9.99/each (375ml) and will be available for purchase starting at noon. See you there!”

BOTTLES

• Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter aged in Port Wine Barrels – 8 bottle limit

• Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter aged in Rye Whiskey Barrels – 8 bottle limit

• Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter aged in Tennessee Whiskey Barrels – 8 bottle limit

CELEBRATORY TAPPING SCHEDULE

• 12pm – Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter aged in Port Barrels

• 1:30pm – Flying Heads Dubbel Pumpkin aged in Bourbon Barrels

• 3pm – Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter aged in Rye Whiskey Barrels

• 4:30pm – Esther’s Li’l Secret Milk Chocolate Brown Ale (Vintage 2015)

• 6pm – Baltic Argonaut Baltic Porter aged in Tennessee Whiskey Barrels 

Warped Wing Brewing Company

26 Wyandot St, Dayton, Ohio 45402
(937) 222-7003
Tuesday 5PM-10PM
Wednesday 5PM-10PM
Thursday 5PM-10PM
FridayTODAY 3PM-12AM
Saturday 12PM-12AM
Sunday 12PM-8PM

Caribbean African Fusion Eatery Now Open in West Carrollton

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The Barnes family, Theresa, Samenah, Sam and Samyatta

Since she was 10 years old Theresa Barnes has dreamed about having her own restaurant.  Learning  family recipes working in the kitchen with her grandmother and mother in Sierra Leone in West Africa she was already planning for her restaurant.  Just weeks ago, Theresa’s dream came true  and she and her family opened the doors  to Eden Spice on Dixie Drive in West Carrollton, next to Holly’s Home Cooking.   The menu is a blend of African and Caribbean specialties like red snapper, curry goat, oxtail and mango ginger chicken.  You can pick your heat, form mild, spicy or African hot on many of the dishes.

Since I’m not very familiar with African food, I asked Samyatta, Theresa’s 20 year old daughter who was working the counter, for her recommendations.  Their 13 year old daughter Samenhah also helps out on the weekends.  I ended up trying the jerk goat with jollof rice (a Nigerian  staple that is flavored with Maggie) and fried red snapper with plantains and red beans and rice. You can see the entire menu here.

Red Snapper with plantains

While I was waiting for my food to be cooked, everything is made from scratch here, nothing sitting in steam tables, Samyatta shared with me about her Mom’s dream to open the restaurant.  She shared with me how for the last couple of years her mom had been cooking and perfecting her recipes and feeding everyone they knew, taking  dishes to her job at Synchrony (where she still works part time) and even knocking on strangers doors to have them try her food.

After cooking my food Theresa joined me in the dining room sharing her joy in finally being to live her dream with the restaurant.  She and her teenage sweetheart Sam married and came to America about 25 years ago.

Sam’s Jerk Goat

She’s been working with her cousin, who has catering contract with schools in Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton for the last few years, always talking about her desire to have a restaurant.  Finally her cousin Florence told her she had located the perfect spot for Theresa’s restaurant.  The location was a former Subway restaurant in West Carrolton and Theresa just knew it was the perfect place.  She still does catering  out of the kitchen, cooking breakfast and lunch, delivering about 700 meals to 3 area schools.

Theresa told me about her decision to serve the snapper with the head on, staying true to herself, knowing that many Americans might not eat it, but that the head is the best part of the dish for her and back home they eat it all, including the eyes.   I wasn’t quite brave enough to eat the head, but did enjoy the snapper, using a fork to pull the meat off the bones, and then flipping it over to enjoy the other side.

She’ll continue to make those meals as she grows her business, serving lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, but never on Sunday, as that’s the day she and her family dedicate to their Far Hills church family.   She explained to me how the menu came about with the African recipes, which feature spicy and salty flavors, and lots of Thyme, and green onions, while the Caribbean entrees tend to be sweeter, with both cuisines including a lot of rice.  Goat was the most common meat in her African home, and the meat she is serving at Eden Spice is Hallal, lawful to eat according to  traditional Islamic law.  While she was raised in a Christian home, some of her extended family were Muslim and she wants to make sure her restaurant is welcoming to all.  Which is why she also offers baked chicken as well as wings, and steak kabobs. Serving Vimto, an African soda made from juice of grapes, raspberries and blackcurrants, flavored with herbs and spices is a nod to a treat from her childhood.

Mac & Cheese, red beans & rice

As we were talking she was pulling together her fresh produce and spices to make her jerk seasoning and emphasized how all her meals are based on family recipes and made from scratch.  She has to travel to the African store in Columbus to get many of her spices.  As business picks up she has plans to offer more African specials on the weekends and is also looking forward to doing catering.

Theresa’s parting words to me were that in her culture they didn’t give physical gifts often, but instead they shared their love by cooking for others and she is looking forward to sharing that love with the Miami Valley.

Eden Spice
501 E. Dixie Drive Dayton, Ohio 45449

Theresa & Sam Barnes

937-247-9116

Tuesday – Friday: 11-8pm
Saturday  11-9pm

 

Local Chefs Teach AFS Cooking Classes

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Five local Chefs will be the featured instructors for the 37th annual American Field Service (AFS) Cooking school series of cooking classes being offered at Centerville High School this February and March.  Each evening’s class includes chef demonstration and class participation of a 3 course meal preparation.  Chefs and their restaurants provide an amuse bouche as well as all the food for the night. Classes conclude with students and chef sitting down to enjoy the dinner they’ve just helped prepared.

 

AFS Dayton Chapter announces it’s 37th annual cooking class

February 4…..…………………………………………Chef Liz Valenti of Wheatpenny Oven and Bar

February 11…………………………………………….Chef Carrie Walters of DLM Culinary Center

February 25…………………………………………..Chef Dave Rawson of Meadowlark Restaurant

March 4…………………………………………………..Chef Melissa Deaton of Dublin Pub

March 11…………………………………………………Chef Bryan Ondre of Coco’s Bistro

 

Monday evenings, 6:30-9:00 pm

Classes take place at Centerville High School Consumer Science Room C272 Central Unit

Cost is $50 per person per class.  To make reservations, send payment with completed registration form to the address below.  SPACE IS LIMITED to 20 students per class.  These classes are very popular, so seats fill quickly!!!  Once a particular class is filled, a wait list is created.  All registrations are taken on a first received, first recorded basis.  A completed registration form, with payment (checks only) must be in the hands of the coordinator to reserve a seat.  Feel free to mail or deliver your paperwork to the address below.  A box will be on the front porch for deliveries.  Write the date and time you drop off yours and place in the box.  Mail is collected daily.  Questions?  Reach me at [email protected].    

Dunkin’s Next Generation hits Dayton

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Jackie from Food Adventures tours the New State of the Art Dunkin, Donuts

You may have noticed a significant increase in new Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants opening up around the Dayton area over the past few years. Dayton is definitely “runnin’ on Dunkin’.”  Most recently there has been a lot of buzz about a new location at 5901 Far Hills Ave.  The Food Adventures Crew had the opportunity to get an exclusive tour (and tasting!) of what’s being referred to as the first “Next Generation Dunkin’” in our area!  We sent our lovable in-house blogger to tackle the assignment which is near and dear to her heart.  Take it away HUNGRY JAX !!

 

Ok, I hear some of you getting ready to post about chain restaurants vs. local.  We live in a delicious city full of locally owned coffee and donut shops that leave us with so many choices for good old fashioned homemade deliciousness.  And it’s no secret that I support the donut industry in our area.  But the awesome thing about this region is that there is room for all!   Some of you may recall that I am a transplant from Upstate NY. We travel back and forth to see family frequently.  One thing I love about Dunkin’ is that no matter where you go, you can count on the same products and quality to be offered. Dunkin’ is one of our trusted pit stops when embarking on a family road trip!  I like to compare it to Catholic Mass, no matter where you go, you’ll know what to expect!

 

The newest Dunkin’ Donuts is locally franchised by the Gilligan Company.  Patrick Gilligan left a career with BP oil back in 1993 to start his own

Donuts Up Front

business with the goal of franchising different gas stations and restaurants.  Based in Columbus, the Gilligan Company has grown its’ business from Columbus to Cincinnati employing over 900 people. They uphold a commitment to their employees as well as the communities that they serve. Most recently, the local Dunkins’ franchised by Gilligan raised $5,000 for Dayton Children’s Hospital. Just one of many ways this company has wanted to give back to the community!

 

Ok, but enough about people and places. Let’s move onto what this new Dunkin’ Donuts experience offers!

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE NEXT GENERATION of DUNKIN’ DONUTS:

—Immediately upon entering, you’ll notice that they changed the layout. The donut cases, which used to be behind the counter, are now up front so that you can get and up close and personal inspection of which frosted delight you’ll be taking home! The aesthetics of the building is also more modern, keeping the look fresh and new.

State of the Art Coffee Machines grind the beans

—They have also increased being more energy-efficient. The company has designed these new stores to be 25% more energy-efficient. In addition, they have also switched over to a double-layered paper cup. Now you will have the same cup for both coffee and specialty hot drinks, where as before, there were the old Styrofoam cups and the brown paper cups. This change allows for staff to be more efficient when making drinks (no searching for specific cups or lids) as well as eliminating the need for a sleeve a the cups will keep your liquids hot but your hands comfortable!

 

—Dunkin’ has also embraced the necessity of smart phones. If you download the Dunkin’ App, you will be able to place mobile orders. A nice feature on this is that you can load your order earlier in the day, and the when ready to pick it up, you can click “prepare my order” and it will be fresh and ready with minutes of your arrival! Yet another bonus for those of us with kids or not wanting to take a long pit stop on a road trip. What’s even better is that you also have the option to either pick up in the store OR in the drive thru! The newer Dunkin’s have a lane specifically for mobile order pick-ups!

Maple Bacon Chipotle Croissant

—Ok so what changes have there been to the food? Lots! There are always specials running for new products as well as the classic goods. I got to try some of the new sandwiches offered!

 

Here is a run down of my MUST EATS for DUNKIN DONUTS:

 

  • BROWN SUGAR MAPLE CHIPOTLE BACON BREAKFAST CROISSANT:
    • Limited time only! This is their classic Bacon Egg and Cheese sandwich with a kick to it! The chipotle sauce adds the spice and the brown sugar bacon balances it out with a crispy sweetness! Not up for a change? The original Bacon Egg and Cheese Croissant is on special for 2/$5!

 

  • DUNKIN DONUTS ENTIRE $2 MENU:
    • You can indulge in a Wake Up Wrap! These are egg and cheese tortilla wraps. You can also include bacon, sausage or ham!

Power Breakfast Sandwich

  • POWER BREAKFAST SANDWICH:
    • This is a veggie delight! At just 370 calories, you get a Veggie Egg white scramble, turkey sausage and cheese on a multi-grain bun!  A pocket sized Food Adventure.

 

  • VARIETY OF DONUTS AND BAGELS:
    • There are always the standard classics of the famous donuts – from the Boston Kreme, to the Jelly and Chocolate Glazed  Also, who could forget the munchkin donut holes?  And if you haven’t tried their bagels, give them a shot toasted with cream cheese (multiple flavors to choose from!).

 

MUST DRINKS — COFFEE!!!!  For Jackie, Dunkin’ is really all about the coffee….

Dunkin Donuts has high expectations for their coffee! With these new stores, your beverage will be treated with TLC from start to finish! For their original, dark and decaf coffee, they are now being brewed in what is called a “Soft heat” process. No longer will you coffee sit on top of a heating element in a glass carafe. The old process would leave coffee tasting burnt. This newer process gently heats the coffee within the thermos. There is also an indicator light letting staff know when it’s time to brew a fresh pot to ensure that you’re always getting a quality cup!

The newest drive thru includes a mobile lane

 

For those of you that appreciate a specialty coffee drink, you’ll be pleased to see that the beans will be freshly ground and each drink made fresh to your order! Additionally, if you like a chilled beverage, the “Premium Pours” cold beverage station is up and running. Here you can get iced coffee, cold brew, and iced tea all “on tap”! In addition, you can try the new NITRO Cold Brew Coffee! This is a fantastic upgrade to the traditional cold brew process as they infuse the drinks with nitrogen, creating a light tasking drink that’s refreshing and will keep you running! A cool thing about this process is that there are not nitrogen tanks. Instead the system pulls the nitrogen from the air!

 

Once again, the new location on Far Hills is the only “Next Generation Dunkin’” in our area! But keep an eye out as the existing stores will transition eventually bringing the tasty and innovative changes across the area. So swing on over, taste some new and old goodies, and let us know what you think!

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then tune in each week for a feature article from the Food Adventures Crew.  We are a blog that will leave no plate unturned.  Follow Food Adventures on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE.

Bacon Maple Croissant Sandwich

Pumpkin Spice Season

Cold Coffee Specialties on Tap

Chocolate with Sprinkles

It’s a Jelly

Nuts about Dunkin.

Glazed Goodness

Kids runnin’ on Dunkin

Chocolate Glazed

Bagel and Cream Cheese with coffee

Stack em up

These taps will pep you up

So mobile nowadays

State of the Art Equipment

Tme savers

Newest Heating and Cooling techniques

Daytons First and only new generation store is in Washington Township near 48 and Whipp Rd.

Jz Says it is all about the coffee

shots!

Bagels

Wrap up

chocolate glazed

It is all about the coffee at Dunkin for us

Whole Lotta Love

SPRINKLES ! The Dunkin Donuts Mascot follows Food Adventures.

Geez Louise .. Look at that delicious cross section

Boston Kreme Donut

Jackie tests Sprinkles icing …

City Barbeque Selling Tumblers To Support Veterans Living With TBI

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Starting today, when guests purchase a new limited-edition $5 tumbler at any City Barbeque location, City Barbeque will donate all tumbler profits to the Resurrecting Lives Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting veterans living with traumatic brain injury. As a thank you for helping support this -vital organization, guests will receive free refills in their 2019 tumbler through March 31, 2019 (offer valid for free refills of fountain beverages, tea, and lemonade with any food purchase at City Barbeque). Tumblers are available while supplies last, and City Barbeque has sold out every year.

 

This promotion marks City Barbeque’s fifth annual fundraiser for Resurrecting Lives; the restaurant has raised more than $46,000 to support the organization to date. Resurrecting Lives is committed to helping veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI), which impacts an estimated 20–25% of the troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The foundation helps veterans successfully transition to a post-military career and life through advocacy, aid, fundraising, and research: a cause that resonates with the culture of service at City Barbeque.

 

“We’re honored to be able to support our veterans via the Resurrecting Lives Foundation and are thankful our guests also want to support this cause,” says City Barbeque founder and CEO Rick Malir. “We hear from guests all the time how much they appreciate this partnership. We’re glad we can come together to do something good to support our veterans living with TBI.”

Beavercreek
2330 N Fairfield Rd
beavercreek, OH 45431
937-320-0000

Mon–Sat: 10:30 am–10 pm
Sun: 11 am–9 pm

 

Centerville
5 East Franklin Street
Centerville, OH 45459
937-312-1350

Mon–Sat: 10:30 am–10 pm
Sun: 10:30 am–9 pm