Dayton Dining
It’s Restaurant Week in the Miami Valley
Look back at the first restaurant week promotion!
I have a particular fondness for Restaurant Week, as it was my baby when I was president of the Miami Valley Restaurant Association in 2005. When we started it, it was a struggle to get restaurants to sign on. The 3 course meal deal was offered by $20.05, to reflect the year.
The first year I think we had about a dozen restaurants when we kicked off the promotion and we got up to 29 by the actual week of the promotion. We asked the eateries to donate $1 of each meal to charity, a component that is not a part of most restaurant weeks around the country, but I really believed that this would help the public embrace this promotion.
Our first charity partner was The Food Bank with our slogan being “when you eat, they eat.” We strategically picked January, as that is one of the slowest months for restaurants and even though the restaurants signed up, many of them were skeptical about the event. But the residents of the Miami Valley embraced the promo right away. And then the restaurateurs started to believe, “I have never seen anything like it,” said Josef Reif, owner of l’Auberge, in Kettering. The phone started ringing last Friday and by noon Saturday all spaces in both dining rooms were reserved for the entire week.” Then restaurant critic for the Dayton Daily News Ann Heller interviewed local owners and one Oregon District eatery said business tripled overnight.
Now a dozen years later, the promotion is still going strong and while the price goes up a penny each year, a 3 course meal for $20.17 is still a great deal. It originally ran just Sun – Friday, but now Restaurant Week runs Sunday – Sunday, Jan 22- 29th, giving you even more chances to dine out. The program has changed a little as well, with restaurants now having the option to offer meals for $25.17, $30.17 and $35.17 as well and places like Park City Club and Roost offer options at all price points. Other eateries offer deals for 2 like Chappy’s Tap Room & Grille 2 dine for $35.17 offer or Kabuki’s sushi dinner for 2 for $35.17. Some restaurants offer 4 courses like Wheat Penny and The Melting Pot. Many more will pair beer and wine specials at discounted prices.
I tend to use restaurant week to visit newer restaurants and this year that includes Caramella’s Italian Kitchen, Ellie’s Restaurant and Bakery at Mills Park Hotel, Smiths Boathouse, Wandering Griffin and Zink’s Prime Meats and Fine Wines
You can view all the menus here.
The other thing to be aware of is that many of the restaurants participating are not open every day of restaurant week. Be aware of the restaurant’s hours, some open days that aren’t usually open and some are closed on Sunday & Monday.
Here are our suggestions to get the most out of Restaurant Week:
1. Reserve Early
Popular Restaurant Week choices will be booked up quickly, so the sooner you get on the phone to make your reservations, the better. Reservations for dinner early in the week (Monday – Wednesday) tend to be easier to get than Friday and Saturday. Some of the more casual restaurants don’t take reservations, so arriving before or after the dinner rush will minimize your wait.
The options from elé Cake Co. Bistro & Wine Bar
2. Manage Your Expectations
It is Restaurant Week and most restaurants offer fairly limited choices on the Restaurant Week menu, so if you’re a very picky eater, it might not be the best option for you. Menu’s are predetermined for price, volume and ease of service, so don’t be surprised if substitutions aren’t possible. Frequently, the Restaurant Week menu won’t include a restaurant’s “signature” dishes, but you can often order them a la carte if you’d really like to give them a try. Some menu’s may actually differ from what’s listed here, due to product availability.
3. Understand the Price
The $20.17 – 35.17 prix-fixe meal doesn’t include beverages, tip or tax. Beverages can add up quickly, so if you’re concerned about your budget, ask about prices before you order. On the other hand, since your meal is discounted, this might be the best time to splurge on a bottle of wine. Many restaurants offer multiple price points options, so you can decide how much to spend.
4. Vegetarians Beware
Some of the menu’s don’t offer a lot of options for you, but you’re probably not surprised by that. On the other hand places like Christopher’s and Meadowlark always offer creative and tasty options.
Caribbean Chicken Tacos from El Meson
5. Tip Your Server Well
Just because you’re getting a discount on your dinner doesn’t mean that the waiter or waitress is getting a break on their rent this month, so tip generously if you get good service. And as a former waitress, let me remind you 20% is the baseline for good service these days.
And don’t worry if you can’t get to all the participating places, there’s always Summer Restaurant Week July 23 – 30th.
Jungle Jim’s Big Cheese Festival Returns!
Join fellow queso connoisseurs and fromage fanatics at Jungle Jim’s in Fairfield on Sat & Sun, Feb 11 & 12, where the Oscar Event Center will open its doors to fulfill some of your wildest, cheesiest dreams. Everything you loved about the past Big Cheese Festivals will be on display, but they’re not content to just rest on their laurels. Expect things to be bigger, bolder, and tastier than ever as they scour the globe to bring you the coolest Camembert, tastiest Taleggio, and decadent Double Gloucester we can find. In addition to all of the amazing cheeses they’ll have for you to sample, they’ll also have a variety of meats, olives, and other appealing appetizers, as well as fabulous beers and wines to make this an intense, indulgent cheese experience!
All You Need is Cheese!
Experience a world of cheese featuring 40+ booths from over 80 companies, sharing their goods across a range of styles and flavors. They’ll have local, artisan, and international cheeses as well as charcuterie and more, all under one roof!
Life is Great But Cheese Makes it Better
Cheese is good when served alone, but you will excite your taste buds even more with the delectable selection of meats, olives, breads, and a variety of condiments including spreads, jams, and fruits they’ll have throughout. So be on the lookout for a variety of food booths amongst the tables of cheese.
Where There’s Wine, There’s a Whey!
Nothing goes better with cheese than a cold beer or glass of wine – the flavors are enhanced when they’re paired together. There will be multiple stations throughout the festival, all placed by region so finding the perfect pair will be easy as possible. Wine and beer will be available for purchase at the event by the glass, or get a VIP or drinking wristband and enjoy samples throughout the day.
Here’s a quick look at the first cheese festival held in 2014, it’s grown a lot since then.
Say Cheese!
This is a family friendly show, with exciting things planned for all ages! There will be lively music to complement the experience, and there will be several entertaining photo opportunities available throughout the day. Be sure to vote for some of your favorite cheeses, as well. You can help crown Best in Show or, if you’re up to the task, the Stinkiest Cheese! This show is bursting with all types of fun to see, try, and experience.
To Go:
Sat, Feb 11th & Sun, Feb 12tth Noon – 5pm
The Oscar Event Center at Jungle Jim’s International Market
5440 Dixie Highway
Fairfield, OH 45014
Tickets:
VIP Early Admission $30
Gen Admission $10 advance $12 at door
Child $1 advance $2 at door
Kids under 5 are free
Buy tickets online here
*In the case of a sellout tickets will not be available at the door.
Directions from Dayton
Take I-75 South
Merge I-275 West – To Indianapolis
Exit #41 toward Hamilton/Fairfield
Drive north 3.8 miles on Route 4/Dixie Highway
Turn right onto Jungle Jim Drive
The Century Bar Named Midwest’s best-kept boozy secret
The Tasting Table just released their top 8 list of Whiskey Businesses in America and our own beloved C Bar made the list. Here’s how the story goes”
There’s something so perfect about a simple glass of whiskey. The amber-tinted spirit has charmed generations of drinkers across the globe, from Ireland to Scotland to Japan and, of course, the United States.
This winter, steal away to one of these eight whiskey emporiums and indulge in a dram (or two or three . . .) of the best darn booze the world has to offer.
⑦ The Century Bar
Dayton, OH
OK, OK, we know what you’re thinking. Dayton? As in Ohio?? But trust us, you’re going to want to check your doubts at the door when it comes to this world-class whiskey joint. As the Midwest’s best-kept boozy secret, this distillery-turned-saloon has been charming those in the know since 1862. Today, Century’s historic back bar is a testament to American spirits, with stained glass skylights; a long, gleaming copper-topped bar; and a handful of bourbon barrels repurposed into tables and stained to match the exact hue of Maker’s 46. The dedicated folks behind the bar are known to put on a slew of themed tastings, brand-specific events and educational classes throughout the month, attracting locals and thirsty out-of-towners alike. Start packing your bags, whiskey fans, because this is one tavern well worth the trip.
Of course this is just one of many accolades the bar has received since going morphing into a bourbon bar under the tutelage of Joe Head. The Bourbon Review has named The Century Bar to their Top Bourbon Bars multiple years, Men’s Journal named it as one of The 10 Best Bourbon Bars in America and Travel and Leisure included The Century in their round up of the “Best Whisky Bars in America.”
1/2 Off at Kettering Dairy Queen Today Only
On Saturday, January 21st the DQ at 2056 E. Dorothy Lane in Kettering is celebrating Fan Appreciation Day with a huge sale.
EVERYTHING in the store (except gift cards) will be HALF PRICE!!! This only happens once a year! Spread the word and get here early and stock up your freezers with all the cakes, Buster Bars, Dilly Bars, DQ Sandwiches, Blizzards, etc. that you can fit!! NO Limits, But once our stock is gone, it’s gone! No orders for a future day/time will be taken. Everything is cash/credit and carry!
Chili’s $10 Three Course Meal Deal
Chili’s has expanded their $10 three-course dinner special with new entrees including BBQ ribs and chicken. With Chili’s “3 for Me” special, for $10 you get an appetizer, entree, and dessert. Start off with either a Fresco Salad, house salad or chips & salsa. Next, add your choice of entree as listed below. Finish with a Mini Molten Cake, all for $10.
Entree selections in the updated special are:
- Baby Back Ribs Half Rack
- Smoked bone-in BBQ Chicken Breast
- Oldtimer Burger
- Oldtimer Burger with Cheese
- Bacon Burger
- Lunch Double Burger
- Fajitas
- Full size Fajitas ($3 upcharge).
No coupon required. To get the deal just ask your server for the “$10 3 for Me Special“. You can also order the deal online. Not valid with any other discounts. Items in bundle not eligible to be redeemed using My Chili‘s Rewards points. Excludes tax and gratuity.
Dayton Area Chili’s Locations:
McEwen Plaza Shopping Center
1110 Miamisburg Centerville Rd.
Dayton, OH 45459
(937) 434-7117
BeaverCreek
The Best Tamale’s in Town: Chiapas Mexican Grill
Chiapas Mexican Grill
With the wacky weather lately, the saying, “Chilly today, Hot Tamale” applies here. Of all of the Mexican eateries in town, only a handful can claim to be “authentic” to the Mexican people’s tastes. These menus are not Americanized, but are true to the way people dine in Mexico City or Chiapas, Mexico. Simple, fresh ingredients and simple, homemade recipes. Authentic is the case of Chiapas Mexican Grill in Centerville on State Route 48. The small diner is a perfect atmosphere for an authentic, Mexican Food Adventure.
As you know, what makes our food blog different, is that we visit a restaurant many times before we write a thorough article. If a place shows promise, we revisit, and go on different hours, and different days and try almost every dish on the menu. That way, one can
Chorizo Soft Taco – note the corn tortilla and lime
REALLY get the feel of the place. Not just a one or two plates and a forkful of a friend’s dish, we are talking full Food Adventure experiences. That is our philosophy to share with you reliable feedback on the very best spots in the Miami Valley. After at least a half dozen visits to Chiapas Mexican Grill, we are here to give you the full scoop and some incredible photos.
From Horchata cinnamon like milk drinks with our friend Elsa, to Chimichangas and Enchiladas during Sunday football, we ate it all and are ready to share the goods.
Chicken Chimichangas
HERE’S THE SKINNY on CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL:
—Located in the heart of Centerville at 298 N Main St. The quaint dining room seats about 50 people.
—Locally owned operation by a family from Chiapas, Mexico. One of the owners used to work at Las Piramides restaurant in Centerville. He finally convinced family members to get in on his plan to own their own authentic restaurant.
—Menu features family recipes and dishes from their town of Chiapas, which is at the most southeastern part of Mexico, near Guatemala.
—They are open 7 days a week with special prices on Margaritas on Mondays and Fridays. All tacos
The Best Tamales we have ever eaten
are just $1.99 on Mondays.
This place is definitely one for your Food Adventure hit list. Each meal starts out right, with warm tortilla chips and some excellent salsa, packed with fresh cilantro. Now that your tastebuds are warmed up… We present to you the best of the best of their menu… our patented feature ………… MUST EATS !
Half of the dining area
MUST EATS at CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL:
—TAMALE’S:
The best tamales we have ever had, hands down, Chico. We know their secret. They use banana leaves instead of corn leaves. The bbq sauce, the corn mush and the pulled pork combine for a taste we have never experienced before. Our mouths are watering for more.
—IN HOUSE HOT SAUCES: IMPORTANT! Take advantage of the 2 homemade in house hot sauces, one red one green. They are great to add to your salsa to thicken things up, or squirt across your dinner of choice. Also dive into the bottled sauces on the table called El YucatecoXXX and Cholula
A spicy shrimp dish called Camarones ala Diabla
—TACO’S – SOFT and CRUNCHY:
The soft tacos are incredibly authentic, and are made with soft CORN tortillas which is, of course, the difference. No cheese on the soft ones, just meat, onions and cilantro. All tacos are served with lime quarters. Grab these quarters, and squeeze every bit of lime juice onto your taco meat. It makes the whole thing. All the taco meats are good, but our top 4 soft taco meat choices you “must eat” are : a) Chorizo, b) Shepard Style (rotisserie pulled pork), c) Chicken and d) Carnitas (steak). Don’t forget to add some salsa or house hot sauce.
Behold the Chicken Fajitas, still steaming and sizzling
The crunchy ground beef taco is delicious and loaded with lettuce and shredded, white, Mexican cheese. Don’t forget to order one of those.
Get your butt in here on Mondays, when all tacos are $1.99, for a feast you will not soon forget.
—CAMARONES ALA DIABLA (Spicy shrimp): Large, perfectly pan seared shrimp, in a plate with hot sauce, rice and beans. We got lost for a moment in our plate. What woke us up was the powerful flavor and HEAT! This is definitely a MUST EAT. Good dish, make sure a soft drink, water or beer is near, Gringo. Wow, was this dish something to write home about.
Under these mounds are two of the best chile rellenos in town
—CHICKEN FAJITAS: Served sizzling from the kitchen, the result is a nicely seared collection of chicken, green peppers, onions and tomatoes. Served with lettuce and tortillas on the side, along with sour cream and guacamole, you have the building blocks for an epic fajita creation.
—CHILE RELLENOS CHIAPANECOS:
Oh man, this dish is the best of both worlds. It is two, large stuffed peppers on a plate. One is filled
The huge Torta Milanese. a lightly breaded Chicken Sandwich
with cheese, and the other is filled with ground beef and potatoes. The results are one of the best chile rellenos plates we have ever eaten. It has plenty of cheese sauce, salsa and rice so you can use the extra tortilla chips to make your own nacho scooping end to this dinner.
—TORTA DE MILANESE (chicken):
A huge sandwich, with a lightly deep fried chicken breast inside. This is a big, delicious sesame seed roll, with all the fixins. Each half could be a lunch sandwich on its own. Eating this will have you yelling “Arrriba.”
—FLAN:
Flan, an incredible dessert
A delicate little dessert. Like carmalized vanilla pudding with whip cream and cherry, the caramel drizzle sauce is naughty too. We are not going to lie, we each could have eaten four of these, they were that good.
Honorable Mention:
—POZOLE:
The owner’s favorite. It is a spicy soup filled with chicken and hominy. The warm, red broth will soothe your soul. The recipe is a family tradition from Mexico and like almost all of the menu items, a recipe from their Grandmother.
Cheese Quesadilla with fries (kids plate)
—THE GOLD MARGARITA:
A family favorite. Try it frozen, walk out smiling. No shortness of tequila here.
**Note: We learned something on our trip to Chiapas. Every table has a ketchup bottle from a company called “Tip Top Ketchup.” We read the label and realized it was a local condiment company from Tipp City. It went perfect with the fries on the Torta plates and kids cheese quesadilla plate. We have found ourselves a new ketchup alternative.
The deep, rich color of the salsa, packed with cilantro
That does it for our rundown of what you gotta try at this new hot spot.
The small sign in the window says Taqueria, which means a place where tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes are made and sold. That is an understatement. This place is a treasure. The building has housed eateries from Poor Richards and the Hungry Elk to Wrapsody, Roc-a-Fellas, and House of Kabab. We look to see this one stay a while. Chiapas Mexican Grill, you’ve come a long way, baby!
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Feel free to browse more photos below from our multiple visits to CHIAPAS MEXICAN GRILL.
Ohhh those warm chips.. endless baskets
Carne Asada (steak)
Tip Top and fries
Grab a tortilla and turn the spicy shrimp into a shrimp burrito
Tostada – old school right there….
Spanish rice
In House Hot Sauce – the key to a good meal
The other half of the dining room
Chorizo, chicken and Pork tacos
Tamales !!
Salsa – a dip and a dance
Rollin up that fajita like a boss
Tacos and Tacos and Tacos (pork and steak)
Gettin corny with a steak taco
Since 1924 out of Tipp City
Crunchy Taco – ground beef
Pork Soft Taco
Chicken Soft Taco
Up close – Shepards Taco – (Pork)
Another Food Adventure begins
Sixth Annual Brew-Ha-Ha: West V. Midwest
Dayton is in the midst of a craft beer explosion. There are daily notifications that new breweries are opening or that current breweries are planning to expand. In Montgomery county alone, there are well over a dozen breweries. From Crooked Handle in the south to Hairless Hare in the north, breweries are popping up all over. However, the fuse for the craft beer movement was lit on the West Coast. Anchor Brewing Company was bought by Fritz Maytag in 1965, just as the brewery was going to sink quietly in a sea of macrobrews. He resurrected the brand, inspiring other west coast beer enthusiasts to take their home brews and start offering them to the public. It has now been fifty years, and the west coast still rules the roost when people look at raft beers. As of 2014, roughly one of every four breweries were located in California, Oregon, and Washington. It would take all the breweries in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ohio to make a comparable amount. That is a lot of breweries. A wide variety of beer. The Montessori School of Dayton thinks that the Midwest has come a long way in the craft beer game, and is ready to put breweries head to head at the 6th Annual Dayton Brew-Ha-Ha on January 28th from 6 to 9 PM.
We all know the Midwest is best. Time to prove it!
Most years have had a theme focusing on the flavors of the Midwest. Kevin J. Gray, curator of the beers and co-chairman, laid out the format: “We thought it was time to go head to head with the giants—to pick a bunch of really interesting beers from the Left Coast and pit them against the best that Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and the other Midwestern states had to offer.” In a Montessori school, the environment is important. They want students that are “eager for knowledge, who will initiate learning in a supportive, stimulating, and thoughtfully prepared learning environment.” Mr. Gray asserts that they will be creating an environment that is welcoming to everyone, from those just dipping their taste buds into craft beer to those who have explored every style and flavor profile. There will be Beer Ambassadors there to answer questions and direct you to the beers best suited for your tastes. For the home brewers looking to do a little research, members of DRAFT will be there to answer any questions you may have.
Three hours is a long time to be sampling beer. Fortunately, there will be some other events at Brew-Ha-Ha. Chicago’s Gyros And Dogs will be offering hot dogs, gyros, pita sandwiches, and other delights to compliment the beer. There is an online silent auction running now through the end of the event, where you can pick up some fantastic gifts and help support the school. Some items listed are from Proto Build Bar, Day Yoga Studio, Sherwood Florist, Dayton Funny Bone, and more! This festival has been growing every year, bringing beer lovers together from all over the Miami Valley and educating them about the amazing craft beer options in the region.
Eat, drink, and support the Montessori School of Dayton!
This year, they are working hard to expand that knowledge to the fine breweries on the Pacific coast.
Tickets for the event are on sale right now! General Admission is going to be $40, with a limited amount of VIP tickets costing $50. That extra $10 get you in to the event at 5 PM, giving you one more hour to sample the beers they are providing. Proceeds from the event will go to the school’s improvement fund. The funds from this year’s event will be going to help install an energy efficient roof on the school.
While the west coast has created some iconic beers, the Midwest has crafted beers that can stand up to anything that is being brewed there. On January 28, the Montessori School of Dayton hopes you join them in deciding where the best beer in the country is brewed.
Who’s Camping Out For Free Chick-fil-A?
Nearly every week a new Chick-fil-A restaurant opens somewhere across the country. They celebrate each grand opening with the new communities we are joining. It’s all part of the signature First 100® event: a tradition that dates back to 2003 with an overnight parking lot campout that begins the day before the restaurant opening and, come daylight, rewards the first 100 customers with the ultimate prize of free Chick-fil-A meals for a year. A digital offer card loaded with a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A Meals — 52 meals consisting of a Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, medium waffle fries and a medium beverage — will be given to each of the first 100 eligible adults, ages 18 and older.
52 weeks of this meal for the first 100
So Dayton residents get your tents ready, you can start your camp out as early as 6am Wednesday, as two new Chick-fil-A restaurants are opening this Thursday.
Kettering
Opening: January 19, 2017
480 e. Stroop Road
Kettering , OH 45429
Chick-fil-A Operator Matt Eller is excited to serve the Kettering, Ohio Community soon! Residents from surrounding zip codes are welcome to come and be a part of the opening celebration and participate in the First 100. A valid ID is required to participate. If your ID does not reflect your current zip code, please visit the FAQs to see a list of acceptable documents to verify your current residence.
Chick-fil-A serves up breakfast as well.
Troy
Opening: January 19, 2017
1910 W. Main St.
Troy , OH 45373
Chick-fil-A Operator Doug Knostman is excited to serve the Troy Community soon! As a part of his welcome to you, he’s inviting residents from area zip codes to come and be a part of the opening celebration and participate in the First 100.
Lily’s To Host Ohio Spirits Tasting
“In addition to a nu
mber of great breweries, Ohio has some amazing distilleries,” Emily Mendenhall, owner of Lily’s Bistro said. “We want to focus on some of our favorite spirits being made in the state, or in the case of Belle of Dayton, right down the street! I think people are going to be impressed with the range and quality of what’s being made here, and with our Bar Manager Amber leading the event, she is going to introduce folks to the spirits, and also how to mix them into
craft cocktails, which will be a lot of fun.”
The Ohio Spirit Tasting will feature OYO Stonefruit Vodka, Watershed Distillery Bourbon Barrel Gin and Watershed Nocino black walnut liqueur, and Belle of Dayton Gin. Each spirit will be tasted and discussed by Bar Manager Amber Brady. Brady will then showcase the spirits in sample craft cocktails. “I’m really excited about our ‘Oaxacan Winter’ cocktail-it uses tequila, mezcal, fresh lemon, pear liqueur, and Watershed’s black walnut Nocino made in Columbus. It’s an unexpected combination but ends up working together in a really unique way!” Brady said.
Lily’s will also be sampling their ‘About Thyme’ cocktail featuring Belle of Dayton gin, which Brady won first prize with at the Dayton Visual Art Center’s “Artful Cocktail” contest. Brady will talk about the art of crafting a cocktail to highlight each spirits unique flavor profile and is in the process of creating some additional cocktails for the special event.
A small plate prepared by Lily’s Bistro’s Chef Amy Finch will accompany each of the spirit tasting and cocktail sample. For those interested in The Ohio Spirits Tasting, the event costs $39 which includes tax and tip, and takes place on Tuesday, January 31 starting at 6:30pm at Lily’s Bistro. Tickets can be purchased online.
Table 33 Looks to Up the Game in Eateries!
Open Kitchen Makes For Great Conversation at Table 33!
There is nothing like a great start to the day, and at Table 33, it is near perfection! Sitting at the ‘corner bar,’ you get a sense that something is unique about this place. ‘It is a new way of doing things for Dayton,’ says the all-smiles server, Christina. ‘We have our own house made juices (try the ‘Sup Doc), and delicious baked breakfast items’ (I loved the spinach, artichoke and feta quiche.) The menu reads, Grow-Share-Eat. The simplicity of the saying hides the complexity of the mission here.
‘And, we are known for our gluten-free in house bakery as well.’ says Becca, who steps forward to give more exciting details. ‘We are getting so close to being 100% Farm-To-Table. Right now, we are looking around for what is best in local foods.’
Bicycle Glassware Pays Homage to Dayton!
You can feel these ladies, and all involved, are serious about 33‘s vision. ‘Even our coffee, which is from Wood Burl (Well-known to PRESS coffee lovers), is amazing.’ And it is. Anyone who knows me will tell you, I look to good coffees. My cup was rich and earthy, and paired perfectly with my breakfast.
Chris Harrison, one of 33’s owners along with Charlie Carroll, pointed out, ‘We feel we are the best place to start your day. We have complimentary newspapers at the bar to get a jumpstart on what’s happening. There are tv screens featuring local news, national news and SportsCenter. We will have shoe shines soon. And most importantly, we have BAD ASS internet service….3 to 4 times better and faster than any other coffee shop.’ No doubt, this is satisfying to those of us connected 24/7!
Shoe Shines Coming Soon!
Perusing from the barstools, you begin to get a feel for the decor…a blend of New York, with its large white tiles, open kitchen, exposed brick; and Paris with its white table clothes, chalkboard menus and libations. Yet, you feel an Homage to Dayton as well. Pictures of airplanes, and strategically placed bikes overhead fill the space. The Wright Brothers would be proud. ‘We love this city.’ Harrison says. ‘The people of Dayton are great.’
I had to ask, why the name Table 33? Becca was quick to answer. ‘Actually, life takes place around a table. Homework, dinner, business, meetings all happen around the table. As for 33…well, originally we were supposed to be at 33 Ludlow Street. Our marketing materials were complete and ready to go. Why go back and re-do what has been completed? So we just thought, no need to change them. And, Table 33 it its!’
Like many Daytonians, I love a patio, and as I take the last, best bite of my quiche, I envision their expansive patio in the Spring. It has the potential to put other patios on alert! ‘We can’t wait to get it up and running,’ says Christina.
‘Our hope is to have a broader menu in February,’ Harrison chimes in. ‘I spent some time in New Mexico and want to incorporate that region into some items.’ For now, the limited menu suffices, with sensational muffins, brunch style tacos and Posole, a slow roasted, pork chili with that magical kick of southwestern spices.’
Table 33 is off and running. You can feel the energy from a group of 7 or 8 coffee club members laughing and chatting it up at the bar. You can sense a family-friendly feel as a mother encourages her child to drink the ‘yummy’ juice. And you can tell by the looks on ladies’ face as they whisper over mimosa that day’s hot gossip that Table 33 is on to something! And like all of those mentioned, I’ll be back soon….to see where it’s headed!!
Table 33 is located at 130 W 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402. Their phone is (937) 999-3070. Hours for Table 33 are M-F 7am – 7pm. Saturdays 8am – 2pm. Closed on Sundays. Check out their Facebook Page, as well.
Full Scoop on the 2017 Dayton Area Fish Frys
Alter HS Fish Fry is a huge event
Dayton Most Metro has the full list of the areas fish fry’s for 2017 listed RIGHT HERE. Food Adventures has been visiting all of these fish frys each year, for years and we have the scoop on each one.
How do we know? Because we actually go to each one and support the causes! Most fish frys serve Alaskan Pollok or Cod. A couple serve Haddock, and catfish !
NO ONE else breaks down 35 Dayton area fish frys like The Food Adventures Crew … join us…
So, cast your nets, throw your bait i, n the water and see what you can catch this fish fry season !!
We knock .em down below and list them from the MOST EXTRAVAGANT ones, to the TOP FISH FRYS, and BEST RESTAURANT FISH FRYS. We will list
A serving from Incarnation’s Fish Fry
some fish frys we are putting on our hit list to visit for the first time this year. Also we have scoop on a “Do it yourself Fish Fry” at home ! Start reading and be the smartest fish in your school.
First, Food Adventures starts with the big shows, the huge events, the largest production and biggest number of activities and selections.
Here’s the list of the MOST EXTRAVAGANT fish frys .. in order
St Peter’s in Huber Heights – huge selection of food & casino games
THE 4 MOST EXTRAVAGANT FISH FRYS:
—1. ALTER HIGH SCHOOL’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 24 at 7pm
940 E David Rd, Kettering
The Dayton area’s largest fish fry, it is a sight to behold. Located at Alter High School gym and cafeteria, it is a huge display of casino games and a gigantic amount of silent auction prizes. $15 gets you all you want fish, sides and pop. Beer and wine, is extra. Promises to draw a big crowd. If you want the big, Grandaddy of them all event .. this is it … Say hi to the Big Ragu who will be dealing blackjack.
—2. ST PETER’S FISH FRY: SAT. FEB 25 at 5:30pm
Carroll HS like most fish fry’s serve draft beer
6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
Since it is on a Saturday, they offer fish, sausages, wings and much more. There is enough food to line the length of a basketball court. The entire gym is decked out from horse races to blackjack. The price is about $15 and includes a couple drink tickets. The line is a big one so get there EARLY. They usually surprise with one craft beer at the coolers. Big crowd, good times.
—3. INCARNATION PARISH FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 10 at 7pm
55 Williamsburg Ln, Centerville
Known simply as “The Fry,” This event has tents, and it has the biggest craft beer selection of all the fish frys. Also a BIG casino after party, with lots of folks.
Like St Mary’s some serve Sausages on Saturdays or Fridays before lent
Big Ragu deals blackjack here from time to time, so please come, eat, drink and be merry. This event gets extra points for decor and silent auction. Typically the cost is about $18 and includes all you can eat fish, sides and soda pop. Craft beer for sale too, the biggest selection of the fish frys.
—4. CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL’S ST PAT’S FEST FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 10 at 6pm
4524 Linden Ave. Dayton
Everyone is Irish for this fish fry celebration. $18 is admission gets you fish, sides and some draft beers. Held in the cafeteria and gymnasium, they have a baked fish option and lots of desserts. A friendly staff, with tons of silent auction items, raffle prizes and of course some games of chance. Will you hit the luck of the Irish at this party?(March 11th is a free family event).
Desserts are often a part of admission like this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake from Our Lady of the Rosary
Now Food Adventures turns to the best fish frys. The ones who give you best bang for your buck and maybe not the long lines of other fish frys. Must be 21 to attend, except for the fish frys that are family events.
THE BEST 15 CHARITY FISH FRYS:
—1. ST MARY’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 3 at 6pm
310 Allen St, Dayton
All you can eat dinner in the basement of the church. There is a fun circus atmosphere for the raffle prizes and of course the casino games. This is one of the best bangs for your buck. The cost is $15 and you get fish dinner with all the trimmings. You can buy beers on draft for about 50 cents. And a dessert table for extra $1 per item will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off. Short lines, nice volunteers and a comfortable atmosphere.
Games of chance like this dice game at Holy Trinity are common
—2. OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY FISH FRY: FRI. Feb 10 at 6pm
22 Notre Dame Ave. Dayton
This is our old #1 fish fry. It is still the best, but the secret is out and the lines are long. Take advantage of their multiple dates and get there early. $17 gets you endless food and beer, they don’t nickel and dime you here. This is a fun, laid back party. All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot and regular), French fries, salad, cole slaw, cabbage and noodles, chocolate cake, apple crisp, popcorn, beer and soft drinks, and Chef Joseph, you get us with that peanut butter sheet cake every year. Talk about religious experience… but the cat is out of the bag on this secret, so get there early or the line will be around the cafeteria, but the fish here is different than any other.
Dayton Rugby Clubs fish fry is delicious – Chef David Glynn makes sure of it
—3. HOLY TRINITY FISH FRY: SAT. MAR 4 at 6:30pm
272 Bainbridge St, Dayton
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners. They treat you like family. At a cost of about $15 you get 3 beer tickets and food. The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast. This is a real fun event that captures the essence of a fish fry.
—4. DAYTON RUGBY CLUB: FRI. MAR 31 at 7pm.
5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
This ranking is because the fish is so good. Chef David Glynn in the past has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers. Big lines, but the fish is worth it. It is the only Dayton fish fry with Panko fish breading. Go for seconds and pass out in a food coma like we do. A fun boisterous crowd. Lots of food, laughs and fun.
Lots of pop – like this table at Holy Angels Fish Fry
—5. HOLY ANGELS FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 13 at6pm
1322 Brown Street, Dayton
Near the campus of U.D., this is one of the friendliest crews you can hang out with. A nice hot batch of fish hits the pan every few minutes. The line is not bad and the cafeteria area holds the eats and raffle prizes. Check out the goods and the beer is CHEAP. $15 bucks for a delicious fish fry cooked by the “Corpus Christi Fryers.”
—6. ST HELENS FISH FRY: SAT. JAN 28th at 6:30pm
605 Granville Pl, Dayton
Riverside’s best fish fry. $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner. They are also
St Helens and other fish frys are on Saturdays and offer chicken too
having sausages and chicken ! This is a comfortable crowd, not too busy, and not too empty. It is just right. Lots of chances for casino games as well.
—7. ST PAULS CATHOLIC CHURCH FISH FRY: NOT UNTIL DEC. 2017
1000 Wenger Rd, Englewood
(They already held their fish fry in December, catch them later this year, it is worthwhile).
The Fish from St Paul’s fish fry in Englewood
—8. OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY: SAT. MAR 4 at 6pm
249 Squirrel Rd, Dayton
Just $15 gets you into this fantastic party and fish fry. The lines are not long and the food is good. Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included! The Corpus Christi Fryers will be serving up some lovin spoonfuls.
—9. ST ANTHONY’s FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 24 at 6pm
830 Bowen St., Dayton
Great atmosphere, great fish. Plenty of blackjack tables for afterwards fun. Cost is $15 and includes fish dinner, sides and a couple beer tickets. The lines can get long, so get there early for this one. Good Food, fun
The Corpus Christi Fryers are a great volunteer group
crowd, nice big pieces of Alaskan pollok.
—10. ST ALBERT THE GREAT FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 20, 6pm
3033 Far Hills Ave, Dayton
$20 at the door gets you a full, endless fish dinner. In the past the Hecht family has run this fish fry. Nice, big pieces of fish, breaded and cooked perfectly. You should get a couple of beer tickets with admission as well. this fish fry also has
St Anthony Fish Fry Volunteers
a lot of raffle prizes to win.
—11. ST CHARLES FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 17, 4:30pm
4500 Ackerman Blvd. Kettering
Kid friendly until 6pm. This fish fry gives you a chance to bring the whole family from 4:30pm -6pm. After that it goes to over 21. Great fish, short lines and a lot of fun. We suggest getting there about 5-530pm to get a good seat. Tickets are about $16 and include a couple of beer tickets, as well as fish, slaw and fries.
Lots of fish frys serve bread and tartar so you can make a sandwich – like this one from St Albert
—12. CHAMINADE JULIENNE’S FISH FRY: SAT. MAR. 18th at 6pm.
505 South Ludlow Street, Dayton
Cost is $20 at the door includes all the beer and food you want. We love this all inclusive approach and the fish is good so this one is the best up and coming fish fry. Held in the school they get a great crowd, get there early as lines form !
—13. ST LUKES FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 3rd and FRI. MAR 17th at 5:15-6:45pm
1440 N. Fairfield Rd, Beavercreek
This one is run by the school and is a delicious dinner, not all you can eat. You are offered baked and fried fish, slaw and fries. They have one of the biggest dessert selections we had run into. Plenty of soda available. This is a FAMILY fish fry, so no beer or alcohol is served. Cost is about $10 for adults, $5 children 4-12, 3 and under free.
Fish from St Charles Fish Fry
—14. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY: FRI. JAN 20th, 6pm
4293 Powell Road, Huber Heights
The menu includes beverages, both fried and baked fish, sausage, chicken nuggets, beans, corn, macaroni and cheese, and all the fixings. The price is $14 for adults.
—15. ST. HENRY’S FISH FRY: FRI. FEB 3 at 7pm
6696 Springboro Pike, Dayton
They have a live auction and Texas hold em too ! Price is about 16 bucks for the all you can eat typical fish dinner with fries and slaw. Have fun and gamble. The atmosphere is very relaxed and jovial at this fun fish fry.
Desserts from Chaminade Fish Fry
—16. ST. FRANCIS of ASSISI‘s FISH FRY: FRI. MAR 3, 6pm
6245 Wilmington Pike, Bellbrook
If you get there early, you will be having round 2 of food before most people have even gotten into line. This is a big fish fry held in the cafeteria and the seating gets full. The fish is filling and they offer some other sides besides just slaw and fries.
Many events have baked fish option like this one from St Luke’s Church
Chef House, the Big Ragu and Hungry Jax are all about the restaurant scene too. Take it from us, here are the fish frys you want to experience. Some are year round, some are limited times. All are worth it !
Here they are…
THE TOP 8 DAYTON AREA RESTAURANT FISH FRYS:
—1. HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:
3509 Linden Ave, Dayton
$8.75 – endless fish fries and cole slaw offered 52 weeks a year on Fridays. What a deal! The fish is delicious, light, huge pieces cooked with a perfect and crunch. Excellent food, old school atmosphere, nuff said.
St Henry’s Fish Fry
—2. YANKEE TRACE GOLF CLUB:
10000 Yankee St, Centerville
Endless fish, cole slaw and fries for $15 per person. This goes every Friday through April 14th. Delicious, filling, and ooohh is that fish good and crunchy!
—3. TIPP O’ THE TOWN:
1150 W. Main St, Tipp City
All you can eat on Fridays and Wednesdays every week all year, all day long. For $9.79 it comes with fries and slaw. A great place, that gets overlooked up north.
St Francis fish fry in Bellbrook is a busy one
—4. K.J.’S RESTAURANT:
35 W Center St, Germantown
This Germantown restaurant features all you can eat farm raised catfish, 2 sides, for $8.99. What a price! The catfish is nice and flaky and not “fishy.” We think you’re gonna enjoy this one!
—5. GAMEDAY GRILL and PATIO:
7576 OH-48, Waynesville, OH
Popular spot at the edge of Waynesville/Centerville. Their fish fry runs every Friday during lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter). It is not all you can eat. The price is $12.25 for Alaskan Pollock includes 2 big pieces, fries and slaw and extra filets are +$3 each. These guys know how to cook good food. Try it for some of the best around.
Hasty Tasty Fish Fridays are year round and the best deal
—6. SLYDER’S FISH FRY:
836 Watervliet Ave., Dayton
Every Friday, is the deal. Three pieces of walleye (not all you can eat) for $7.75. Served with fries and slaw. This is the only time you will not get a burger here.
—7. WHOLE FOODS FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
1050 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Centerville
Fish dinner by the pound. Beer Battered Cod, every Friday in the hot plate area sold with french fries at $8.99 a pound.
Yankee Trace has an excellent fish fry for $15
—8. CRACKER BARREL FRIDAY FISH SPECIAL:
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, and 7171 Miller Ln, Dayton
Fried Cod on Friday for $9.99. Add the best sides in show business like the dumplings or okra and you’ve got a cure hitting your hunger. They start serving at 11am and you can choose from Cod or Catfish. We’re HOOKED ~
SIX FISH FRYS ON OUR HIT LIST IN 2017 (They should be on yours too !):
—1. BRICK CITY BLAST BASEBALL FISH FRY: SAT JAN 21, 6pm
Gameday Grill in Waynesville has a Fish dinner on Fridays
6161 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
$12 in advance gets you fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw and more!! Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop and more) also included. Games will include: Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more! Proceeds to the Brick City Sports Club.
—2. EINTRACHT SINGING SOCIETY FISH FRY: APR 7 at 6pm and MAY 5 at 6pm
2707 Old Troy Pike, Dayton
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, and Cole Slaw. Soda & draft beer included in the price so, for $14 a person, it is all you can eat night !
Alter’s silent auction area
—3. HUBER HEIGHTS ROTARY FISH FRY: SAT. FEB 11 at 6pm
5384 Fishburg Rd., Huber Heights (Huber Heights Athletic Club)
$15 tickets include food and drink. There will be raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and Monte Carlo games. All funds raised benefit “Needy Family Christmas Program.”
—4. PARTNERS FOR COMMUNITY LIVING FISH and CHIP FRY: FRI. MAR 3 at 6pm
5367 Fishburg Rd, Huber Heights
Highly acclaimed fish fry. Tickets are $20 at the door, and the buzz is nothing but good about this event. We can’t wait to sink our teeth into their fish!
The dessert table at Carrolls Fish fry
—5. ST. BRIDGID FISH FRY:FRI. MAR 24 at 6pm
312 Fairground Road, Xenia
Sounds like besides a great fish fry, they will have lots of casino games like Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo. Tickets are $15 for this one.
—6. ST CHRISTOPHERS FISH FRY: SAT. JAN 28 at 6pm
435 East National Road, Vandalia
$15 cost to enter and it is being run by the Corpus Christi Fryers, so you know it is gonna be great.
One last thing to consider….an option of having your very own fish fry….
Foremost Seafood can help you with your own fish fry (fresh tilapia here)
*** DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY OPTION ***:
— FOREMOST SEAFOOD‘S “DO IT YOURSELF FISH FRY”: Here is an option you wont see anywhere else. How about hosting your own fish fry party? Foremost Seafood, off of Woodman Drive, sells everything you need to make sure you have the perfect party. And you can pick which type of fish you want. From Catfish, Walleye, Haddock, Perch, pollack, to tilapia and much more. Call (937) 298-1986, ask for Tom to talk about your fish fry.t’s it
WHEWWWWWW ! That’s it ! Hook, line and sinker….
Always the most thorough scoop on Dayton eats, Food Adventures can be found on Facebook by clicking HERE. Please “like” our page.
Carroll HS baked fish option
A pile of fish at Chaminade
Hasty Tasty Pancake House – a fish refill looks like this
Pull tabs at Our Lady of the Rosary Fish fry
Holy Angels Fish Fry
A Labatts in a Yeungling cup at Holy Angels Fish Fry
Holy Trinity – our first plate
Incarnation Fish fry casino area
Desserts at Our Lady of the Rosary in the kitchen
Dayton Rugby Club fish Fry crowd
Bread for St Alberta Fish fry
St Anthony has the typical condiments
St Charles Fish Fry
St Charles Fish Fry
St Francis offers baked fish too
Hush puppies at St Helens
Pabst at St Helens
St Mary’s fish fry prep
St Marys desserts
St Paul’s dessert table
Wings, dogs, and more at St Peters
Yankee Trace Fish Fry
Yankee Trace Fish Fry
Taco Bell’s Fried Chicken Taco Shell Debuts Jan 26
Taco Bell is coming un-shelled with its latest food innovation, coming in the form of the first taco shell made entirely of marinated, all-white crispy chicken. The Naked Chicken Chalupa will bare all nationwide on January 26, clucking the trend of traditional fried chicken.
“Something this delicious yet different is bound to ruffle some feathers; some might even cluck their tongues at it,” said Marisa Thalberg, Chief Marketing Officer at Taco Bell Corp. “However, we feel confident that once our fans get a taste of the Naked Chicken Chalupa they are going to understand exactly why this is our next big, fun and craveable innovation, following in the footsteps of the Doritos Locos Tacos five years ago and the Quesalupa just last year.”
The shell is made with four ounces of marinated, all-white-meat, antibiotic-free* chicken kicked up with bold Mexican spices and seasoning, and is packed with fresh shredded lettuce, diced ripe tomatoes, cheddar cheese and creamy avocado ranch. The mouthwatering combination brings a fresh, crisp flavor with a kick of spice to the menu like never before.
The Naked Chicken Chalupa saw buzzworthy tests in select markets in both 2015 (Bakersfield, CA) and 2016 (Kansas City, MO), and will now make its full reveal nationwide. Crisped to perfection to deliver a solid crunch for just $2.99, it will also be featured in a $5 Box including a Naked Chicken Chalupa, Doritos® Locos Taco, Crunchy Taco and Medium Drink.
Fans are encouraged to follow along leading into the nationwide launch of the Naked Chicken Chalupa using the hashtag #NakedChickenChalupa. Further details, and some rebellious surprises, will be shared as January 26 approaches.
Where’s The Fish Fry? DMM’s 2017 Fish Fry Guide
When it comes to fish fry, Dayton doesn’t mess around. You may not be able to predict the weather in the winter, but we can sure predict that Friday’s mean fried fish, draft beer, raffles and gambling from Jan – April.
Over the past several years, the popularity of fish fries has grown tremendously, schools, club and athletic leagues have joined the trend and Saturday’s are often on the schedule now, too!
At a typical fish fry, you’ll be able to eat fish and chips, enjoy a few beers, bid on some amazing silent auction items, and play some black jack. Some are adults only, some are family friendly and most will even do takeout. The cost is around $15 per fish fry, which is much cheaper than a night out on the town…plus you can say you are eating, drinking, shopping, and gambling for the kids!
Here’s our annual guide. If you know about others, please feel free to add them in the comments section.
Friday, Jan 13
Our Lady of the Rosary Church 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm
VOTED DAYTON’S BEST FISH FRY! All you can eat Icelandic cod, chicken strips, fresh sausage (hot & regular), french fries,…
includes food, beverages, games, raffle & fun!
Friday, Jan 20
St. Albert the Great 7:00 pm – 11:59 pm $15 advance $20 door
The Silent Auction is our biggest money-maker.
The Silent Auction is our biggest money-maker.
Saturday, Jan 21
Fried fish, Swedish Meatballs, Hot Dogs, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw, Unlimited beverages (Beer, Pop) also included. Poker, Showdown, Chuck A Luck, and more!
Saturday, Jan 28
Enjoy All you can eat fish by the Corpus Christi Fryers, Games of Chance, Raffle, Auction and much more!
St. Helen Catholic Church 6:30 pm $20
Riverside’s best fish fry. $20 at the door includes pop, beer tickets and full fish dinner.
Friday, Feb 3
St. Henry, Our Lady of Good Hope, Bishop Leibold School Monte Carlo & Fish Fry
at St. Henry Catholic Church 7:00 am – 11:59 pm
Enjoy all you can eat fish, Auction, Texas Hold ‘Em and much more! 21 and over
Baked & Fried Cod, French Fries, Baked Beans, Sausage, Pasta Salad, Cold Slaw. Soda & Draft Beer Included
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.
Saturday, Feb 4
Fairborn Lions Club & Fish Fry Fun Night 6-10pm $13 advance $15 door
All you can eat, limited beer, Melody Cold slaw, entertainment and a lot of fun.
Friday, Feb 10
Our Lady of the Rosary Church 6:00 pm $17
VOTED DAYTON’S BEST FISH FRY! 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.
VOTED DAYTON’S BEST FISH FRY! 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.
Saturday, Feb 11
Huber Heights Rotary Fish Fry/ Monte Carlo
Huber Heights Athletic Center 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm $12 advance – $15 door
Come join the club with good food and drink. Raffles, door prizes, cards, instants and monte carlo games will be available for your entertainment.
Friday, Feb 24
Alter Fish FryAlter High School 7:00 pm – 11:55 pm $13 advance $15 door
St. Anthony Fish Fry6:00 pm – 11:00 pm $13 advance – $15 door
Saturday, Feb 25
Friday, March 3
Eintracht Fish Fry Friday – All You Care To Eat
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm $14
Partners Fish ‘N Chips Fish Fry
Many of our guests tell us it’s the best fish dinner in town and we agree!
Fenwick Fish Fry & Monte Carlo Bishop Fenwick High School 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Enjoy Fish prepared by the Hecht Family, French Fries, Slaw, Baked Beans, Applesauce and more.
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.
Saturday, March 4
OUR LADY of GRACE/OUR LADY of MERCY/CORPUS CHRISTI FISH FRY 6:00 pm
Just $15 gets you Fish Fries Sausage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and Beer included!
Holy Trinity Catholic Church 6:30 pm $15
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners. You get 3 beer tickets and food. The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.
Points for the friendliest staff of volunteers and parishioners. You get 3 beer tickets and food. The lines are not long, and the casino games in the adjacent room are a blast.
Saturday, March 18
CJ Fish Fry Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm $15 advance – $20 door
Games at 7:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening at CJ with a great Fish Fry, Games, Silent auction. 21 and over
Friday, March 24
St Brigid Fish Fry St. Brigid Catholic School & Church 6:00 pm $15
Fish, Fries, Coleslaw, Beer and Soft Drinks as well as games: Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Horse Races, Beat the Dealer, Instant Bingo and more!
Friday, March 31
Dayton Rugby Club Fish Fry Huber Heights Athletic Center at 7pm
Chef David Glynn has turned this into a fantastic event with his volunteers.
Friday, April 7
Five For Drinking: Bloody Mary Edition
The simple, savory, Bloody Mary. What spices would you add?
The Bloody Mary is THE brunch cocktail. There can be an argument for the mimosa, but it lacks the vibrancy a Bloody Mary offers. The vodka and tomato juice are essentially blank canvases for the spices the bartender chooses to add. When concocted during Prohibition, it was a half and half blend of vodka and tomato juice. The tomato juice was a gift from American bartenders fleeing to practice their craft; the vodka was provided by Russians fleeing an unstable country. They met in Paris, and the rest is history. Eventually the mixture was spiced up. The story goes that a Russian businessman had no interest in the plain tomato juice that was common in the drink and requested it get spiced up. Ever since that day, the Bloody Mary (or Red Snapper, as it was known for a brief period) was a mixture of spicy tomato juice and vodka.
After that, the sky became the limit for what you could do with a Bloody Mary. How to you utilize the savory and sweet characteristics of the tomato? Do you bring the strong heat, or are you looking for something that is a little more balanced for a meal? Does the cocktail even matter at all; are you shooting for some crazy garnish? When you start from a spicy tomato juice as a base, you really can go anywhere with it, as these five variants prove:
Bloody Maria
1.5 oz. tequila (I enjoy reposado in mine)
2 oz. tomato juice
2 oz. orange juice
.5 oz. lime juice
.25 tsp. chilé powder
2-3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Glass: Tall
Ice: Cubed
Garnish: Sliced jalapeno pepper
Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing tin over ice. Shake well for 20 – 30 seconds, then strain into a tall glass over fresh ice. Garnish with the jalapeno and serve.
Some Bloody Maria’s call for just substituting out the vodka with tequila and calling it a day. This one reaches into the Mexican tradition of drinking sangrita (“little blood”) with tequila. Sangrita is made with a mix of fruit juices, traditionally pomegranate, orange, and lime, and served as a compliment to the peppery tequila. This recipe blends it all into one glass in a much more American way. The chilés provide the heat, this time in powder form.
Bloody Caesar
So. Many. Spices.
1.5 oz. vodka
3 oz. tomato juice
1.5 oz. clam juice (yes, really)
2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
4 dashes Tabasco sauce
.25 oz. lemon juice
Pinch of pepper
Glass: Tall
Ice: Cubed
Garnish: Celery stalk
Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing tin over ice. Shake well for 20 – 30 seconds, then strain into a tall glass over fresh ice. Garnish with the jalapeno and serve.
More popular in Canada than in the United States, the Bloody Caesar adds some clam juice for additional richness. Taking out the salt is needed because that juice will add enough to the cocktail. You can simplify the recipe by using 4 oz. of Clamato juice as a base.
Bloody Bull
1.5 oz. vodka
3 oz. tomato juice
2 oz. beef bouillon
.5 oz. lemon juice
3 dashes of Tabasco sauce
2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
Pinch of celery salt
Pinch of pepper
Glass: Tall
Ice: Cubed
Garnish: Celery Stick
Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing tin over ice. Shake well for 20 – 30 seconds, then strain into a tall glass over fresh ice. Garnish with the jalapeno and serve.
Before bacon was a flavor in everything, there was beef bouillon to add meaty goodness. That richness we were discussing with the clam juice is achievable with beef bouillon.
Crosby Gaige’s Cocktail Guide and Ladies Companion, asserting that vodka is the spirit of choice.
Red Snapper
1.5 oz. gin (Belle of Dayton makes a dandy one.)
4 oz. tomato juice
.5 oz. lemon juice
3 dashes of Tabasco sauce
2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
Pinch of celery salt
Pinch of pepper
Glass: Tall
Ice: Cubed
Garnish: Celery Stick
Pour all of the ingredients into a mixing tin over ice. Shake well for 20 – 30 seconds, then strain into a tall glass over fresh ice. Garnish with the celery stick and serve.
The charm of this cocktail is the savory nature of the tomato juice. Why not add even more flavor by using gin? We are in a Golden Age of Gin. Distillers are taking liberties with the herbs that make up its flavor profile, providing a wide selection for cocktails.
Michelada
4 oz. Mexican lager (any lager will work)
3 oz. tomato juice
1 oz. clam juice
.5 oz. lime juice
3 dashes of Tabasco sauce
2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
2 dashes Maggi seasoning (soy is an acceptable substitute)
.25 tsp. chili powder (plus more for garnish)
Glass: Pint
Ice: None
Garnish: Lime Wedge and chili powder
Run the lime wedge around the rim of a pint glass. Pour chili powder on a plate. Roll the wet rim of the glass in the chili powder, tapping the glass after to remove the excess. Pour all of the ingredients, except for the lager, into a mixing tin. Shake well for 20 – 30 seconds. Fill the pint glass halfway with the Mexican lager, then strain the contents of the tin into the glass. Stir a few times gently, then serve.
More clam juice. There are versions of this cocktail where it is just the beer and the spices, and no tomato juice. Maggi seasoning is similar to soy, but you may be able to find it in some specialty grocery stores. Lucky Star offers a Mexican lager you can grab in a growler and Trotwood by Warped Wing is always a favorite.
There is a cocktail in there somewhere.
The spices added to most of these cocktails are typical for a Bloody Mary: Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco (or other favorite) hot sauce, salt, pepper, and some citrus. There is a wide variety of other flavors you can add to the mix to cater to your personal tastes. Like the Old Fashioned, every bar has their variation, and every bar’s variation is the best around. For the garnishes, there is nothing fancy here. You can be as simple or complex as you would like. Tradition calls for celery sticks, olives, or a citrus wedge.
Looking for more variations on the theme? This Sunday is the Second Bloody Mary Showdown, where some of the best bartenders in Dayton will attempt to prove that their recipe is the best one in the Miami Valley. Scratch Event Catering will be providing the brunch fare you will be enjoying with the Bloody Mary samples. And you can vote for the best one!
Bartenders will be competing for bragging rights and $300 cash for the winner. Awards will also be given out for best table decor and best garnish. Scheduled to compete are:
Champ Mack’s tavern will be on hand to defend her title!
Lily’s Bistro
Good Time Charlies
Trolley Stop
Whole Foods Market
Mudlick Tap House
Vue Ultra Lounge
Mack’s Tavern
MJ’s on Jefferson
Old Scratch Pizza
Kingspoint Pub
Meadowlark
Jimmie’s Ladder 11
Fifth Street Brewpub
Smart Guy In A Tie Cocktails
The event is produced by Planned2Give, an event planning service that provides support for local non-profits and proceeds from the event will benefit The Greater Dayton LGBT Center. The event takes place at the Coliseum in the Montgomery County Fairgrounds from 11am to 2pm and tickets are $25 in advance, available online or at Mack’s Tavern, The Vue or Lily’s Bistro. Come on out for a bite of brunch and a spicy start to you Sunday!
RIP Menehune Tiki Bus
It was one of the most anticipated entries into the food truck scene last summer, and we were excited to document Owner Danny Webb’s journey with getting the Menehune Tiki Bus on the road last May. But the tiki gods seemed to have cursed the Menehune Tiki Bus, as it lead a cursed life, with multiple delays in getting it up and operational. It finally launched last June, then had to cancel multiple events as they’d get one problem fixed and another would pop up. Propane, generator and air conditioning issues all seemed to plague the bus, but when it was operational, it was a huge hit with the crowds.
Back in August Danny posted this about an accident he had in the double decker bus:
While driving it to Greenville this morning to deliver it to my mechanic for some minor work, while in a driving rain, a deer ran out in front of me. I swerved to avoid hitting it and lost control of the bus. I ran off of the road, nearly hitting a power pole and wound up in a bean field about 100 feet off of the road. During the process, the bus ran over a berm in the ditch and actually got some air time. Before coming to a stop in the beans the bus nearly rolled over. The bus sustained severe body damage on the lower level but is mostly confined to fiberglass and diamond plate panels which are easily repairable. However, because of the rough ride that it took, frame damage is possible. Plus, the three window posts on the front upper level all broke so there must have been some major league twisting of the frame. I’m lucky that it didn’t roll and that I didn’t get injured other than a little neck strain. I’m not sure what this means for the future of the Menehune Tiki Bus, just yet. We’ll let the mechanics and the insurance company sort it out for now. Mahalo nui loa! Thank you very much!
Earlier this week he posted this update, announcing the demise of the Tiki Food Truck:
The Menehune Tiki Bus is no more. After nearly five months following the accident, the bus has been totaled by the insurance company and we have received our settlement check. The bus has been purchased for parting out by my mechanic in Greenville. Food truck people interested in new, barely used kitchen equipment can contact me by personal message and I’ll give you the contact info. Karen and I have been on an emotional roller coaster since the accident, trying to decide if we want to procure another bus and try again. At our ages, I don’t think that we are up for another 1 year + adventure of this type. We are simply going to pay our bills, cut our losses, lick our wounds and move on. Besides, I believe that the Tiki Gods don’t want us in this business! We are very appreciative of the enthusiasm and support that we have received from community over the past 1 1/2 years. Mahalo Nui Loa!
Thanks to Danny and Karen for sharing their journey with us so honestly through their facebook page and good luck on the next chapter of your journey.
