Dayton Dining

“Whiskey Rebellion” Release Party Saturday

November 17, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

For the second consecutive year Warped Wing Brewing Company (WWBC) a Dayton craft brewery is releasing “Whiskey Rebellion”, a bourbon barrel aged Imperial Stout. The brew is a collaborative effort between the brewery and The Century Bar.

As the story on the can reads:

“Swelling national debt in the late 1700s led to a government-imposed whiskey tax, which crippled the emerging bourbon trade. Thirsting for freedom, an undaunted few rose up and sparked our second great revolution. In time, the reins of government control unraveled. And a truce was penned. At last, the cuffs of commonwealth came off, liberating the free flow of bourbon once again. Whiskey Rebellion. A Russian Imperial Stout steeped in reclaimed bourbon barrels. Marked with accents of chocolate, vanilla and, what else, bourbon. Stand your ground.”

The Brewery will host a release party on Saturday, November 21st at 12:00pm. This year the beer will be available in both cans and draught. 2-packs of 16 oz. cans will be available in the taproom only and will be priced at $22. Supplies are limited with one case max per customer. The beer will be available for sale in draught only to bars, restaurants and retail the following week.

In addition to the Whiskey release, 6 other rare bourbon barrel aged beers will be tapped throughout the day with schedule to be released later this week.

Creative Credits

Creative Director/Label Designer: John Pattison

Illustrator: Tom Post

Copywriter: Paul Singer

Can Compilation Image: Richard Biever

Time For Christ Episcopal Church’s Annual Waffle Week

November 15, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

Every autumn, The Waffle Shop at Christ Episcopal Church, located at 20 West First Street in downtown Dayton, opens for a wonderful four consecutive days to make waffles! Mouths begin to water days in advance with anticipation!

This is the annual event that is hosted by Christ Episcopal Church in Dayton, Ohio. People feel good about eating our waffles! Not only are they handmade and delicious, but they are a way for the church to raise important funds for local community programs and for the church.

The Church welcomes everyone to join us for a fabulous waffle lunch! Pricing is very reasonable with waffles just $3, a waffle with sausage is $5.95. Cherry, apple, blueberry, sugar-free strawberry and whipped cream toppings are just an additional 50 cents.

Also on the menu soups, Tuna salad, Ham salad, or Turkey sandwich, salads, desserts, and drinks.

Soup Schedule

Tuesday: Chicken Noodle Soup or Potato Soup

Wednesday: 15-Bean Soup or Potato Soup

Thursday: Chicken Noodle Soup or Vegetable Beef Soup

Friday: French Market Soup or Potato Soup

You can sit and eat-in, or pick up a fast carry-out order. You are welcome to fax your order in ahead so your lunch will be waiting for you at the carry-out counter.

Remember to spend some time to peruse the Craft Bazaar, the Bake Sale, Elsie’s Attic, and even pick up a few raffle tickets. The church shares 75% of the funds raised with local charities and programs. The remainder of the funds helps to support unique and special projects within the church. Christ Church been doing this since 1929, and say they enjoy doing it every year!

Mikesells: Tins and New Flavors? ! WIN CHIPS !

November 14, 2015 By Dayton937 14 Comments

These tins will be in stores next week !

Mikesell’s Snack Food Company is bringing back the holiday tins for the first time in 15 years! They are also going to introduce some new flavors in 2016 and we have the scoop.

The Food Adventures Crew was lucky enough to sample the new flavors and we are so excited about the throwback tins, that we are giving away some free chips!

***Want to win some of your favorite hometown potato chips? ***

Then comment below and we will award 3 winners the new tins that are coming to stores next week!

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Since 1910, Mikesells Potato Chips have been a part of Dayton life, and still remain family owned today by DW Mikesell’s descendants.

— The tins were wildly popular in the 70’s and 80’s, with throwback designs, celebrating anniversaries such as the 75th and 80th years in business.

— Next week, for the first time in 15 years, grocery stores will start carrying Commerative Tins of Mikesells chips, just in time for the holidays. The tins each contain 2 sealed bags of chips. Tins will be available for a limited time only.

— You can also order the tins online by clicking HERE.

Korean BBQ is one of the new flavors being considered for 2016

NEW FLAVORS BEING CONSIDERED for 2016:

Mikesells had been testing flavors at the Dragon’s games and at Unversity of Dayton. Food Adventures was lucky enough to get a private sampling of the candidates, some of which will go into production in 2016. Here are the flavors and our comments on them.

— HOT ROASTED GARLIC and DILL: One of the favorites, look for this one to be a hit. Who doesn’t love garlic?

— JALAPENO RANCH: A nice ranch dusting, not overpowering, with a slight kick at the end. Again, not too hot, just enough to take notice. Chef House, the spicy food queen of Dayton, had a smile after sampling these! This was one of Hungry Jax’s top picks too!

— LOADED CHEESEBURGER: The most complex chip, even down to tasting the ketchup. The flavoring brains behind this chip is brilliant. Hungry Jax simply described them as “Aweseome.”

— HONEY BUTTER: The flavor fad that has hit South Korea, may be coming to Dayton. This Honey Butter chip has a very subtle taste, almost muted. A very easy going chip, and would be perfect with dip.

Chef House, Mikesells Marketing Director Luke Mapp, and Hungry Jax

— SMOKED GOUDA: Probably a long shot, as it seems to have a pretty adult palate. May need some tweaking, but they are definitely on to something unique..

— KOREAN BBQ: Very eatable chip, and such a disctinctly unique flavor. We could see Daytonians eating the whole bag here… Hungry Jax voted this as her favorite and The Big Ragu rated this flavor near the top.

— CREAMY WASABI: This one had more bounce to the ounce than expected. The little zing at the end is a perfect flavor finish. The chip was The Big Ragu’s favorite.

WHAT FLAVORS WILL MAKE THE CUT?

As Luke Mapp, ‎Director of Sales and Marketing explains, we wish we could offer them all, but the problem is limited display space. He said that in grocery stores and other outlets, when you introduce new flavors, it often means you have to yank one of the current flavors. All of it is due to limited shelve allowances. Luke knows his stuff. He is the great grandson of founder D.W. Mikesell and has had a lifelong involvement in the company. We want to send out a special thank you to Luke and his staff for being so accommodating on our taste test and facility tour. It was a fun and fascinating evening.

Behind the scenes at Mikesells, fresh out of the fryer !

Dear chip lovers and fellow foodies, stay tuned over the next 12 months to see which flavors will make it into stores! But remember, you heard about them here first!

One last comment, Mikesells is introducing another product in February that we were able to sample. Unfortunately, we were sworn to secrecy about its existence. All we can tell you is that is was probably the best thing we tasted that day. Stay locked in to Mikesells and Food Adventures, and we will spill the beans as soon as it comes out in stores!

*** COMMENT BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A TIN OF MIKESELLS POTATO CHIPS ***

The comment section is after the photos…..

3 winners will be chosen at random on Thursday, November 19th.

Want to stay a winner? Are you a foodie? Then join the almost 6,000 local fans of Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Mikesells – new tins (on the right)

Jalapeno Ranch chips

The Food Adventures Crew at Mikesells Snack Food Company Headquarters

Zee cheeps are magnifico !

Inside the office by the DW Mikesell photo with Chef and Hungry Jax and Hungry Jax’s kids

Creamy Wasabi Chips !

Tins of past

Hungry Jax looks like an ant, compared to the pallet of Potato chips

Potatoes for the product !

Potatoes, uncooked and recently sliced

Chips coming down the conveyor belt and being measured

Tins are BACK !

Packaging station

Meanwhile, back at the Mikesells office …

The amount of chips moved is amazing

Factory tour

Esther Price & Warped Wing Have A New Secret

November 11, 2015 By Lisa Grigsby

So maybe it’s not such a secret anymore. Last year Warped Wing Brewing Company introduced a collaboration with another Dayton Original, Ester Price Candies. Using their signature caramel, Warped Wing introduced a Scotch ale, and it was a big hit. Big enough that they decided to do it again!

This year’s Secret is a Brown Ale. With twists and turns through tones of chocolate. And sweet whispers of toasted malt. Wanna try it? Warped Wing is throwing a release party to celebrate, featuring Esther’s Li’l Secret Milk Chocolate Brown Ale in draught and cans!

Starting at 5pm on Thursday, Nov 12th at you can enjoy a beer and some of Esther Price’s brand new Esther’s Li’l Secret Beer Brittle. We’ve tasted it and it’s pretty darn good!

2015 Veterans Day Discounts, Free Meals & Deals

November 11, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

Many restaurants are offering something free to veterans and active duty military personnel on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. The offers range from free breakfast items to complete meals.

Note: Offers good at participating location. Uniform or military ID may be required as proof of service. Some of the offers listed below originally found at military.com.

Applebee’s: Vets and active-duty military can have their pick from a special menu with options like three-cheese chicken penne, 7-oz. sirloin, and double crunch shrimp, free of charge (beverage and gratuity are not included).

Bob Evans: Hotcakes, brioche French toast, and the country biscuit breakfast are among the options available to veterans and active-duty military in a special free menu.

Buffalo Wild Wings: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free small order of wings and a side of fries.

Bonefish Grill: Customers with military ID get a free order of Bang Bang Shrimp on Veterans Day.

Chappy’s: 50% off your Entree, Sandwich or Salad Wed. November 11 at both locations, for all active or retired military with valid ID

City Barbeque: Veterans and Troops get a free sandwich platter on Vets Day. We’re messaging it on social media urging folks to take a Vet to lunch to show your appreciation, Vets and Troops get a free sandwich platter on Wednesday at any City Barbeque location.

Company 7: Veterans and active duty military receive 10 percent off every entree, dinner salad or adult sandwich.

Cracker Barrel: Grab a free dessert—the Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake—if you’re a veteran.

Denny’s: From 5 am to noon, all veterans and active-duty personnel get a Build Your Own Grand Slam meal, with possibilities including pancakes, eggs, bacon, fruit, and hash browns.

Donut Haus: One free variety pack donut and one free cup of coffee on Veterans Day, Wed., Nov. 11 to honor all active and retired military that have served our Country. Just show us your Military ID. Open from 6 am- 9 pm.

Friendly’s: Participating locations are giving veterans and active military a free Big-Two-Do combo meal for breakfast, or
free All American Burger with fries and a drink for lunch or dinner.

Golden Corral: From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., anyone who has ever served in the U.S. military is welcomed to a special sit-down dinner, free of charge.

Graeter’s: Graeter’s Ice Cream is offering a complimentary regular sundae to all Veterans and those currently serving in the U.S. Military on Veterans Day

Hardee’s/Carl’s Jr.: On Nov. 11, 100% of the proceeds of any sale from an “Ultimate Care Package” will go towards the Call of Duty Endowment, a non-profit created by Activision Blizzard that has funded the placement of over 15,000 veterans into high quality jobs. The “Ultimate Care Package” includes either a Tex Mex Bacon Thickburger or large drink, with a peel off contest featuring a grand prize of A three-day, two-night trip to Los Angeles, a tour of award-winning Call of Duty design studio, Treyarch, and the chance to meet members of the Call of Duty: Black Ops III development team.

Hooters: All veterans and active-duty military personnel get an entrée on the house.

IHOP: From 7 am to 7 pm, all veterans and active-duty military members are welcomed to one order apiece of Red, White & Blue Pancakes, which come with glazed strawberries (red), blueberry compote (blue), and whipped cream (white.)

Little Caesars: Vets and active military can help themselves to a free, $5 Hot-N-Ready lunch combo, including four pizza slices and a 20-ounce beverage, from 11 am to 2 pm at participating locations.

Longhorn Steakhouse: Veterans and active duty military get a free Texas Tonion and non-alcoholic beverate

McCormick & Schmicks: This seafood and steak chain is honoring veterans and active military not on Veteran’s Day but on Sunday, November 8, with a choice of free entrees including tender beef medallions, salmon rigatoni, or blackened chicken fettuccine.

O’Charley’s: Veterans and active military can make a selection for free off the $9.99 menu, which includes chicken fried steak and bayou shrimp pasta.

Olive Garden: Customers with military ID get a free entrée such as chicken parmigiana, lasagna, or cheese ravioli, with unlimited soup or salad and breadsticks, and family members joining a veteran or active military member at the table get 10% off on Veteran’s Day.

Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt: All vets and active-duty personnel get a free 11-ounce frozen yogurt.

Red Lobster: From November 9 to 12, veterans and active military receive a complimentary appetizer or dessert.

Red Robin: Help yourself to a Red’s Tavern Double burger and bottomless steak fries if you’re a veteran or active-duty personnel.

Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill: Veterans and active military eat FREE. Choose from 1/2 lb. premium burger, pulled pork platter, chicken fingers, tomato basil cavatappi or nutty chicken salad. Sides include natural cut fries, mashed potatoes & brown gravy, creamy cole slaw or cinnamon apples. Veterans also receive 10 percent off their meal all year long.

Sweeney’s Seafood: A complimentary dinner (no carry outs please) off the Veterans Day Menu. ID requested…

Tim Hortons: Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop is giving all active and inactive U.S. military veterans a free donut to thank them for their service and dedication to their country. The promotion will last all day on November 11, Veterans Day, at participating restaurants or until supplies last. No purchase is necessary. To receive their free donut, Veterans need to either be in uniform or show their military ID when they visit a Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop.

Twist Cupcakery: Sweetening the day for those who have served our country! All Veterans will recieve a free cupcake at Twist Cupcakery; must present military identification to recieve this offer!

White Castle: Get a free breakfast slider and a small coffee or other drink if you’re a veteran or active-duty military.

Homemade Pies at Ghostlight Coffee

November 11, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Pumpkin Maple Pie – A new Vegan twist on a Thanksgiving favorite

Need homemade pies for Thanksgiving? Consider a new source: Ghostlight Coffee on Wayne Ave. You can place your order now for pickup just in time for the holidays.
Dayton Dining and Food Adventures were lucky enough to get some pies from the ladies behind these made from scratch pies, Mandy and Mara. Delivered in custom made personalized boxes, the packaging alone set our expectations high and we have to stay these pies really get high marks!

Here is your chance to take some pressure off of your Thanksgiving cooks, and let Ghostlight’s bakers do the work.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Order pies in person at Ghostlight Coffee at 1201 Wayne Ave. or go to GhostlightCoffee.com

— Your pie order can be picked up on your choice of 3 days (11/23, 11/24, and 11/25/15)

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Mara and Mandy, bakers at Ghostlight Coffee, hostedt a dessert tasting event last Monday.

These are the eight featured foods on this new “pies from scratch at Ghostlight Coffee” menu.

NEW TREATS:

— MAMA SMITH’S FANTASTIC APPLE PIE: A perfectly made dutch apple style pie. Old fashioned, and an American tradition. Chef House is on record as saying this is her favorite of the pie selections.

— THE KENTUCKY BOURBON PECAN PIE: Crunchy and creamy, with an almost honey taste, this pie is terrific. The Big Ragu and Lisa from DaytonDining are on record as liking this one best.

— THE PUMPKIN & MAPLE PIE: A unique combo, the pie is soft and luscious. Dairy free and egg free, it is a twist on pumpkin pie with a maple syrup combo.

— GLUTEN FREE CARAMEL APPLE PIE: Tina’s Sweet Treats makes this flavored pie for Ghostlight Coffee. It is covered with a nice coating of handmade caramel sauce.

The Big Ragu enjoyed Ghostlight Pies From Scratch

— THE GHOSTLIGHT THANKSGIVING PIE: A 10 inch Pumpkin and Maple pie with a Kentucky Bourbon Pecan pie stacked underneath. This is like Dayton’s pie version of a Tur-duck-en. We love the no rules approach and inventive boldness! This is a Food Adventure item for sure!

— PUMPKIN SNICKERDOODLES: The classic cookie is back for the holidays. The traditional taste with a pumpkin mix.

— FALL TONIC AUTUMN BLEND COFFEE: A special coffee featured as a blend with any of these desserts.

— GLUTEN FREE DINNER ROLLS: From Tina’s Sweet Treats, these rolls are in just in time for the holidays. We may ruin the health factor by adding some butter…

Some of these items may be available at Ghostlight to eat, right now.

Thank you to Ghostlight Coffee and owner Shane Anderson for sharing these sweet comfort foods with us.

Food Adventures thinks many Daytonians will take advantage of this special, limited time pie offering.

Want to take advantage of more food scoop around the Miami Valley? Then, ” like Food Adventures on Facebook” by clicking HERE.

Limited time !

Look at those Bourbon Pecan Pies !

Outside of Ghostlight Coffee

From Scratch by Ghostlight Coffee

Pies can be ordered to be picked up 11/23-11/25/15

Since 2011

The Big Ragu and owner of Ghostlight, Shane Anderson

Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie

Mara and some baked Ghostlight goodies

Pecan pie twist like no other

Barista Capital of Dayton

Pumpkin Maple – a twist on an old favorite

Fresh Pie

Pumpkin Maple

Order Form

New Downtown Dining Option: Marilyn’s Grill

November 9, 2015 By Lisa Grigsby

Soul Food at Its Finest, Comfort Food at its Best, The Taste will past your Test!

Marilyn’s Grill has set the bar high with their description of their business on their Facebook page. Albert Smith and partner Lolita Frazier signed a lease last March for the first floor restaurant space at the Barclay Building on the corner of Main and First Street. They’ve spent months refreshing the interior of the place and are finally ready to reveal their plans to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Smith shared, “on Gettysburg we were known as a comfort food establishment. Downtown at this location we’re going to continue to carry that image, but we’ve also added a lot of lighter and healthier meals with a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

This week Marilyn’s Grill will be offering lunch on the sidewalk and next week the “soft opening” will start with breakfast Nov 16, and the restaurant will add lunch Nov. 18 and dinner Nov. 20.

Check out the lunch options for this week:

Food Adventures Cooking Class at Austin Landing

November 8, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Bottles of flavor infused Olive Oils

Are you looking for some perfectly unique culinary tips? A new shop on Austin Landing may have the experience that is just what you are looking a for, with this one night event on November 12th.

The Spicy Olive, known for their flavor infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars, are hosting a cooking class this Thursday. The class will feature our MostMetro Food Adventures Crew, who will prepare at least 8 dishes to sample.

Each dish will feature an olive oil or balsamic that is sold at the Spicy Olive store.

Please note there is limited seating and tickets are pre-pay only.

Call 937-247-5969 to purchase yours through Wednesday.

**Please note reservations are needed and walk-ins will not be able to attend the class.

Vats of flavor infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars are available throughout the store

HERE IS THE SKINNY on the event:

WHEN: THURSDAY NOVEMBER 12th, 6:30pm

WHERE: THE SPICY OLIVE STORE, Austin Landing at 3650 Rigby Rd., in Miamisburg

COST: $35 per person, includes recipes, demos and taste samples of at least 8 items

*** TICKETS ARE PRE-PAY ONLY and may be purchased by calling 937-247-5969 ***

This is a one night only event, where the Spicy Olive teams up with the crew from Food Adventures. These three local food bloggers share a life-long passion for local food, fresh ingredients and terrific eats ! Let’s meet the guest culinary team!

MUST KNOWS about the Food Adventure Crew:

— CHEF LEEANNE HOUSE: “Chef House” owns and operates her own local hot sauce company called “Housemade Sriracha.” She also runs a popular local food cart and delivery service called “Bad Dog, Nice Taco.” Before owning her own businesses, LeeAnne had been a Chef at a few upscale, locally owned restaurants. Growing up in a culinary family, she has been employed in the restaurant industry her entire life.

— JACKIE SCANLAN: This mother of two brings a lifetime of cooking experience to the table. Growing up in an Italian family in upstate New York, she has fallen in love with the Dayton food scene over the past decade. Known in Food Adventure circles as “Hungry Jax” for her insatiable appetite for good food, she is never short on great recipes. For years Jackie has been an integral volunteer at the Dorothy Lane Market School of Cooking.

— STEVE MILANO: The final guest cook is also known as the “Big Ragu,” a founding member of the popular Food Adventures blog, which highlights the best Dayton area foods. Steve has written recipes for Foremost Seafood‘s monthly newsletter and has helped organize some of the Food Adventure dinner and beer pairings that have become favorite events for local foodies.

The Spicy Olive is a Specialty Olive Oil Store with locations in Cincinnati and Austin Landing

— OTHER PLACES YOU HAVE SEEN THE FOOD ADVENTURE CREW:
DaytonFoodies.com
Living Dayton TV Show,
Dorothy Lane Market Culinary Classes
Weekly Articles on DaytonMostMetro .com
Garlic Fest Cooking Demos at Bella Villa Hall
Gem City Podcast
Rock N Green Tomato Festival Pie judges
AMBUCS Chili Cookoff, guest judges.

Here is the TENTATIVE Menu:

Big Ragu:
Seared Scallops with lemon olive oil and balsamic
Sesame Chicken with Japanese Sesame Seed oil

Hungry Jax:
Popcorn trio-
Mexican Hot chocolate with Harissa Olive Oil
Cheesy fingers cheddar popcorn using butter olive oil
Paisan popcorn using Coratina oil
Overnight French toast with Maple Balsamic

Pan Searing Scallops with flavor infused Olive Oil

Chef House:
Braised beef with espresso oil over goat cheese polenta
Chicken Taco with coconut or peach balsamic.

Don’t miss this unique chance to get a seat for this event at, The Spicy Olive. There will also be plenty of time to browse the store and see the unique offerings of balsamics and olive oils on site, as well as many more specialty items.

We will be all oiled up and see you there!

For more of Dayton’s best food scene, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Flavored Balsamic Vinegar for sale on site

Scallops

We’re coming to your city !

Hungry Jax and her daughter visit the new store on Austin Landing !

When life gives you lemons, make Lemon infused Balsamics

Menu for the night

The secret to Oriental cooking

Come watch us Whip and Ney Ney

Sesame Seed chicken

Cooking Calamari

All the information you need

3rd Local Brewer To Offer Canned Beer

November 6, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

Warped Wing was the first, Dayton Beer Company came next and next week Yellow Springs Brewery will start offering two of their more popular beers in cans.

You’ll be able to pick up a six pack of Captain Stardust Saison and , at the brewery for $9.99. According to co-owner Nate Cornett, “in September, we debuted our new 15-barrel brewhouse and that has allowed us enough capacity to get two of our favorites in cans.” Prior to the expansion Yellow Spring Brewery hasn’t been able to keep up with the demand for their beers.

Want to pick up a six pack? They’ll be available starting at 3pm on Friday the 13th. Sounds like a lucky day!

Sneak Peek at Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern

November 5, 2015 By Dayton937

The Great American Cheeseburger at Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern

The long awaited opening of the burger chain from Michigan has opened it’s first store in Ohio. “Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern” will officially open to the public on Monday, but Dayton Most Metro and Food Adventures have a little sneak peek.

Thank you to Dayton Dining’s Lisa Grigsby for setting up the special tasting! As our loyal followers know, we usually hit a place many times before highlighting the eatery. But in this case, we will be grand opening chasers, and have only got to go twice before the public goes.

Thanks to manager Ed and the staff. The service is already exceptional and high tech.

So here it is, the Food Adventures Crew take on the legendary Bagger Dave’s….

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

Bagger Dave’s at Cornerstone of Centerville development, off Wilmington Pike

— Bagger Daves is a chain restaurant out of Detroit, Michigan with 24 stores. They are planning to open more locations in West Chester, Beavercreek and Springboro

— The Centerville eatery is located at 5299 Cornerstone North Blvd., near the new CostCo.

— Features are specialty burgers and Ohio beers. Look at it as a mix between Red Robin and TGI Fridays.

— High tech, hand held ordering system ensures accuracy and speeds up the kitchen process.

— Bagger Dave’s boasts they are “cool” but have no frozen items except ice cream, and no walk in freezers on site.

— All of their soft drinks are “in-house” mixtures and brands.

— Thursdays are 50% off craft beer days. HOLY COW this place is gonna blow out Thursday nights.

Big Glass of Warped Wing’s Ermals for $2 on Thursdays? WOW!

When we write about feature restaurants, we usually tear up the whole menu on multiple trips. This is a rare grand opening story, so here are the MUST EATS from our two trips to baggerville…

MUST EATS from the SNEAK PEEK :

— TURKEY BLACK BEAN CHILI: Healthier spin on chili, but we doctor it up with cheese and sour cream for a full blown Food Adventure. Sorry, but the toppings made this delicious bowl of chili. Perfect for a fall day, and perfect to start your visit.

— DEEP FRIED ARTICHOKES: One of the most unique appetizers we have ever seen. We love artichokes and Hungry Jax and Big Ragu’s Italian heritage prepared us for this day! Please dip them in the Asian sauce, and thank us later.

— SWEET POTATO CHIPS with CINNAMON HONEY DIPPING SAUCE: Light, airy with the most important thing being the dipping sauce. One of the most incredible chip dips we have ever tried. AMAZING !

— GREAT AMERICAN CHEESE BURGER: The old, rock solid standard, this is the flagship burger. Try this grilled godness and the sesame bun it is on will have you spinning in lip smacking fun.

— CRISPY BACON CHEESEBURGER: Served on a kick ass on a grilled sesame brioche bun. The burger is topped with Applewood smoked bacon, cheddar and Parmesan cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. So good, and so filling. Bet you have trouble eating half of it.

— BLACK CHERRY CREAM SODA: An “in-house” soft drink that is delicious and refreshing. Love Dr Pepper? This is for you…

— BROWNIE DELUXE: Not too big, not too small. A just right serving of a rich, chocolate brownie with whipped cream. This could definitely be a chocolate overload for some people. For others, it is just another chocolate Food Adventure.

We were impressed with the food, beer and the service! The atmosphere is a fun and bustling spot.

Visit Chef House, Hungry Jax and the Big Ragu on Facebook for more food pics and restaurant info that nobody else has even thought about.

As always, check out our photos below and comment about your experiences at Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern.

Turkey Black Bean Chili – EXCELLENT

Deluxe Brownie dessert

You must use the honey cinnamon dipping sauce with the sweet potato chips

Nachos – with fresh jalapenos

View of dining room and Big Ragu’s huge forehead

Dipping fried artichokes into the Asian sauce

Deep Fried Artichokes – one of the most unique and tasty things we have tried recently

Yes – HALF OFF BEERS every Thursday

Serving Up Turkey Day Dinners 2015

November 4, 2015 By Lisa Grigsby

Take some of the stress out of the holiday season and make reservations for Thanksgiving dinner at a restaurant. Some offer the traditional turkey with all the trimmings while others may present their own creative culinary take on the classics. Also many restaurants offer to prepare your food ahead, so you may serve at home- we’ve listed some options at the bottom of the list.

According to the National Restaurant Association (NRA), 15 million Americans choose to dine out for the biggest meal of the year. That’s not including the additional 4 million takeout customers who order their bird to go.

And don’t forget to ask for leftovers, some restaurants will pack you a little take home box so you can have a turkey sandwich later.

Here are the places we’ve confirmed so far:

Carvers Steaks & Chops
1535 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Dayton, OH 45459 (937) 433-7099 noon to 7pm
Traditional Turkey Dinner $19, Kids Meal is $12, regular menu also available

Cracker Barrel
5770 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, (937) 432-2431, 6am – 10pm
7171 Miller Lane, Butler Twp, (937) 890-0047; 6am to 10 pm
3280 Town Blvd, Middletown, (513) 727-4727; 6am to 10 pm
105 West Leffel Lane, Springfield (937) 325-8221; 6am to 10 pm
Turkey and traditional sides. No reservations taken

Dayton Marriott
1414 South Patterson Blvd, Dayton 937.223.1000 ext.7731 seatings at 11:30pm & 1:30pm reservations required
Buffet with waffle station, make your own salad bar, Ham and Turkey carving, as well as other hot entrees, and assorted cakes, seasonal pies, pastries and bread pudding
$38 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity, $32 for seniors $15 for children ages 5 to 12 (4 and under eat free)

El Meson
903 E Dixie Dr, West Carrollton (937) 859-8229 2 – 7pm
Reservations accepted for groups of 10 or more

Golden Corral
2490 Commons Boulevard, Beavercreek (937)431-7300 10am – 8pm,
8870 Kingsridge Drive, Dayton Mall (937)312-2400 10am – 8pm
6611 Miller Lane, Vandalia (937)264-3300 10am – 8pm
Turkey and traditional sides. No Reservations. $12.99, not including tax or beverage.

Harrison’s Restaurant
106 E. Main Street, Tipp City (937) 667-5200 noon – 6pm
Classic turkey dinner with celery and sage dressing, mashed potatoes & grevy, green been casserole, house made cranberry sauce and warm apple pie with ice cream
$15.50 adults, $13.50 seniors, $9.50 children 10 and under

Hasty Tasty
509 Linden Ave., Dayton, (937) 254-8431; 5 am to 6 pm
Thanksgiving dinner specials, no reservations. Cost: $8.95, includes dessert.

Max & Erma’s
3 area locations: Miller Lane, Fairfield Commons, Springboro 11am – midnight
Thanksgiving Dinner $14.99 for adults, $12.99 for children includes turkey, mashed potatoes, apple pecan stuffing, side of green beans, cranberry sauce and choice of salad or soup and slice of pumpkin cheesecake.

McCormick and Schmick’s
4429 Cedar Park Drive at The Greene, (937) 431-9200 noon to 8 pm
regular menu and Thanksgiving meal, which runs $24.99, for kids$9.99 reservations suggested

Mimi’s Cafe
4402 Walnut St. in The Greene in Beavercreek, (937) 426-9153; 8am – 8pm
regular menu and traditional Thanksgiving dinner, reservations accepted

The Barnsider
5202 North Main Street, Dayton, OH 45415 (937) 277.1332 noon – 7pm
Traditional Thanksgiving dinner, $15.95 adults, Children 10 and under $8.95
Reservations welcomed

Waffle House
To find the closest Waffle House to you use the store locator .
It’s open 24 hours and if you sit at the bar you can watch them flip your eggs- it’s like dinner theater.

Wellington Grille
2450 Dayton Xenia Road, Beavercreek (937) 426-4600 | Noon to 6pm
Traditional meal, plus regular items. Reservations Recommended

Yankee Trace Golf Club
10000 Yankee St, Dayton (937) 438-3585
Turn the Turkey over to us! We’re taking reservations for our annual Thanksgiving Buffet on Thursday, November 26. There are two seatings: 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Cost is $26.95 for adults and $12.95 for children 6–12 years old. Children five and under eat free. Reservations are required and fill up very fast.

Young’s Jersey Dairy Golden Jersey Inn
6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd. (U.S. 68), Yellow Springs, (937) 324-2050. 10:30 am to 6 pm seating every 90 minutes. Traditional Thanksgiving buffet including turkey, ham, sides, and desserts. Reservations required. Adults $20.95, children 4-10 $8.95, children 3 and under free.

Yankee Trace Golf Club
10000 Yankee St, Dayton (937) 438-3585

Turn the Turkey over to us! We’re taking reservations for our annual Thanksgiving Buffet on Thursday, November 27. There are two seatings: 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Cost is $26.95 for adults and $12.95 for children 6–12 years old. Children five and under eat free. Reservations are required and fill up very fast, call 438-3585.

Also don’t forget the Community Feast of Giving at the Dayton Convention Center. It’s open to all and free from 11am – 2pm.

Where You Can Pick up Prepared Dishes:

Lily’s Bistro 329 E. 5th Street 937 – 723-7637

Offering prepared sides from Wednesday November 25-Wednesday December 23, with 48-hour advance notice of orders. These sides are designed to be accompaniments to holiday meals and parties. Will offer small (serves 4-6 people) and large (serves 8-10 people) orders of the following:

-Creamy cavatappi mac n cheese
-Roasted Brussel sprouts with bacon
-Lily’s mashed potatoes with chicken gravy

Golden Lamb 27 S. Broadway Lebanon, Ohio (513) 932-5065
Enjoy a fully prepared hot, fresh and ready-to-serve Thanksgiving meal from the Golden Lamb for 12-14 adults in your own home. Reservations are required by 5 p.m., Tuesday, November 24 and supplies are limited. Call (513) 932-5065 to reserve your Thanksgiving meal and select a curb-side pick-up time between 12:30 pm and 5 pm on Thanksgiving Day.

Hawthorn Grill 1222 E. Stroop Rd, Kettering 937-298-2222

Check out the Thanksgiving Catering menu.

Kroger

Spend more of your Thanksgiving at the table with family and friends by making us your sous chef. We’ll show you the easy ins and outs of ordering a delicious turkey dinner with our Deli department, plus our favorite tips on serving it up in style.

44 Years of Flying Pizzas Win a Large Pizza

November 3, 2015 By Dayton937 23 Comments

The Sicilian Square and a Hand Tossed slice in the back

Dough can be seen flying in the air through the windows at 223 N Main Street in downtown Dayton. The familiar window sign, hustle and bustle is all part of “The Original Flying Pizza.”

The owners, the Graci family have been tossing pizzas downtown for 44 years, and they are still going strong. One slice at a time, they have stolen the hearts and stomachs of many Daytonians by serving their special New York Style Pizza recipe.

** YOU CAN WIN ONE OF THESE LARGE, 1 topping PIZZAS BY COMMENTING BELOW (winner chosen at random).**

How did a mom and pop from Sicily, make their American dream come true? Only Food Adventures has the scoop!

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON HOW FLYING PIZZA BECAME A DAYTON ICON:

Brothers Tony and Frank Graci share a laugh at the pizza shop

FROM SICILY to THE USA :
In 1958, long before becoming icons in Dayton, John Graci and his wife Frances left Sicily for the United States. They settled in New York City. After getting a job at “Sam’s Pizza,” John honed his pizza making skills. In a twist of fate, that building would soon be torn down to build the World Trade Center.

FROM NEW YORK CITY to DAYTON, OHIO:
John and Frances decided to drive and visit John’s brother and his girlfriend who were in Middletown Ohio. As fate would have it, they got a flat tire in Dayton. John and Frances thought Dayton was a vibrant, fun city and full of life, with a lot going on. They thought it would be a great place to raise a family. The Graci family left the Big Apple for the Gem City. Before you know it, in 1971 they had their own pizza shop downtown. They had two sons, Tony and Frank. John and his pizza were becoming a favorite, and he was even appearing on TV on Clubhouse 22 with Duffy the Dog and Malcom, showing his pizza tossing skills.

That was the early 70’s and the pizza business continued to grow in the 80’s and 90’s with cousins opening stores in Columbus, Mason, Fairborn and Centerville.

The Original Flying Pizza Downtown

PRESENT DAY – THE ORIGINAL FLYING PIZZA DOWNTOWN, 2015
Now, the next generation runs day to day operations downtown. Tony and Frank Graci can be found greeting customers and slicing pies daily. They still use that patented “Graci dough toss” every day.

— The Orginal Flying Pizza is located at 223 North Main Street in Downtown Dayton

— NY style pizza by the slice, or whole pies.

— Two types of pizza: (You can win a large one topping pizza free by commenting below)
1) Hand tossed NY style huge slices
2) Sicilian Squares – a thick, more bread like crust topped with special tomato sauce (old school)

— They have calzones and desserts too

— Hours are Mon – Sat 10:30am -7pm, closed Sundays

— They serve beer, as well as host private parties

— There is a parking garage and you get the first 30 minutes free if you ask the cashier for a parking validation

Now you know the story, so let’s dive into the food….

A Slice of Cheese Hand Tossed on the right, a Sicilian Slice of Cheese on the left

Ladies and gentlemen, we now present The Original Flying Pizza’s “Must Eats.”

MUST EATS:

— HAND TOSSED CHEESE PIZZA (SLICE or WHOLE PIE): This is it, the mainstay, the staple, the foundation of a Dayton icon. The mozzarella cheese is perfect, the sauce is perfect, the dough is perfect… every time. They call it “Neapolitan Pizza” which is the name for the style of pizza made in Naples, Italy.

WHEN YOU BUY A SLICE: The slices are big. If you order one, they turn around and heat it up in the oven for a couple of minutes. It will be hot as hell when you get it. We burn our mouth every time. You have been warned.

WHEN YOU BUY A PIE: It doesn’t matter if you fold it and eat it or let it hang and get under it. This stuff is the best. They tape the box closed to piss off those of you who want to steal a slice on the way home.

Frank Graci lets some dough fly at Flying Pizza, Downtown Dayton

— THE SICILIAN SQUARE CHEESE PIZZA: A thicker, more bread like crust, rubbed with olive oil and dusted with garlic and a special marinara sauce. The ending finish is the thick sprinkles of melted mozzarella cheese. It is the cap, on a piece of perfection.

WHEN YOU BUY A SLICE: The slices are Big Squares. Every piece has crust, some have one side of crust, corner pieces have 2 sides,. Very filling, very good.

WHEN YOU BUY A PIE: A big square pizza either 6 or 9 pieces. This stuff is so simple and delicious, yet different than any pizza you have ever tried.

— THE CALZONE: The secret here is they use ricotta cheese in the calzones. The fresh dough seals the deal, literally. The only drawback is that every calzone is Pepperoni and Sausage, so deal with it. Yes, they have one type of calzone.

— SIDE OF 3 MEATBALLS SAUCE and CHEESE: All beef meatballs, marinara and mozzarella, they heat it up, you eat it down. It is like a bowl of cereal for Italian people.

Honorable Mention: The BREADSTICKS at the Centerville location are the closest things to the old Noble Romans that we have ever eaten.

So there is your guide to another epic Food Adventure.

Now take a chance at winning a FREE LARGE PIZZA with ONE TOPPING by leaving a COMMENT BELOW!

A winner will be chosen at random on SATURDAY…

And don’t forget to”like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here!

Pepperoni and Sausage Calzone

Meatballs in sauce with cheese

A peek inside the breadstick bag from the Centerville location

Centerville location bread sticks

Bite into a Square

We buy Pizzas from Flying Pizza and steal slices on the way home

Sicilian Square

The Big Ragu and Tony Graci from Flying Pizza

Deluxe Slice

Slices of heaven

a view to a crust

Frank is able to take phone orders and spin pies at the same time

Sausage slice

2 Dayton Icons

Mikesells and Flying Pizza – matched perfectly

Top that

Special stuff

Door to the famous Original Flying Pizza !

Deluxe love

Clubhouse 22 – Duffy the dog, Malcolm McCloud and John Graci

Meatballs, sauce and cheese

Fork a piece of meatball

Calzones and dipping sauces

Your Chance to Dine at Bagger Dave’s Before They Open

November 2, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

The first Ohio location for this Detroit based burger joint will open at 11:00am on November 9th at 5299 Cornerstone North Blvd. in Centerville, just off Wilmington Pike. The first 50 guests through the door on that day will receive FREE burgers for a year! Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern prides itself on fresh, never frozen menu items. There are no freezers or microwave ovens in their kitchens. Even the fries are fresh-cut daily. They describe their restaurant as a relaxed, friendly place to meet friends, have a drink while watching the ball game, and enjoy a great meal.

Bagger Dave’s menu offers a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and flatbreads as well as some Bagger Dave’s exclusives like their Prime Rib Recipe burgers, Amazingly Delicious Turkey Black Bean Chili, Handcrafted Artisan Mac ‘N’ Cheese, Sweet Potato Chips, signature cocktails, hand-crafted sodas and more.

Juicy turkey burgers and vegetarian burgers provide menu options to appeal to the growing diversity of individual tastes. Speaking of which, Bagger Dave’s lets you create-your-own burgers. You pick your bun, protein, and toppings to create your very own signature burger. And for gluten-free customers, you can enjoy Bagger Bowls.

Special Sneak Peek:

On this Thursday, November 5th, Bagger Dave’s is hosting a VIP community day. They have generously opened that day up for friends of the Dayton Chapter of A Special Wish Foundation so they can do a trial run for the opening of their new restaurant. ASW gets 100% of the proceeds.

Who: Bagger Dave’s Centerville
What: Bagger Dave’s Training Fundraiser Event with A Special Wish Foundation
Where: 5299 Cornerstone North Blvd. Centerville, OH 45458
When: Thursday, November 5th

A Special Wish has 20 tickets available for each shift. Each ticket admits up to 3 people and includes an entrée for each guest and free non-alcoholic drinks, plus one appetizer to share. Lunch shifts are $15 per tickets and dinner shifts are $20 per ticket. No takeout is available for this event.

Lunch Shift 1: 11:30am – 12:30pm

Lunch Shift 2: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Dinner Shift 1: 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Dinner Shift 2: 7:30pm –8:30pm

Contact Susan at [email protected] to purchase your tickets. Please indicate which shift you would like and the number of tickets you need. Please also indicate the number of guests in your party.

Beer Tasting & Buffet at The Dock!

November 2, 2015 By Lisa Grigsby

This Friday, Nov 6th, The Dock Food & Spirits is hosting a grand buffet and food pairing event. Reservations are required for this eating extravaganza which starts at 6:30pm and runs $33.95 per person. Call 937-864-5011 to reserve your seat and then head to 250 W. Main Street in Enon to enjoy a night of seafood and beer at this casual Jimmy Buffet themed eatery.

Here’s the menu:

SEAFOOD JAMBALAYA

PAIRED WITH BLUE POINT OCTOBERFEST

BELGIAN SAUTEED MUSSELS

PAIRED WITH HOEGAARTEN

LOBSTER-ANDOUILLE “MAC & CHEESE”

PAIRED WITH YUENGLING IPL

FISH TACOS

PAIRED WITH GOOSE FOUR STAR PILS

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

PAIRED WITH GOOSE ISLAND LOLITA

Fang-tastic Frappuccino Sneaks into Starbucks Stores for Halloween

October 28, 2015 By Dayton Most Metro

Just in time to spook you, the StarFrappula Frappuccino® is back at Starbucks today through Saturday! This vampire inspired blended beverage is made with white chocolate sauce, milk and ice blended together then layered between mocha sauce and a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of raspberry syrup oozes from the rim, which is finished with whipped cream on top. Get them while they last!

Cool Winter Ahead for Jet Freeze

October 28, 2015 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Pumpkin Ice Cream Cone and a Pumpkin Sundae

Dayton’s beloved soft serve ice cream mecca, Jet Freeze, is heading for uncharted territory. They have decided to stay open throughout winter! The eatery will be open for the remainder of the year and plans to stay open year round

Jet Freeze has a new flavor they are carrying through the end of October… PUMPKIN ICE CREAM ! No one else in Dayton has soft serve pumpkin ice cream, so get a taste of fall before they pull the plug on this flavor.

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Jet Freeze is located in Beavercreek at 4014 E. Patterson Rd.

— They are staying open year round, with winter hours of 11am-7pm everyday.

— New menu items such as soups and additional sandwiches can be expected

— They take credit cards now, and limited seating in dining room and stone tables by front parking lots.

— Opened in 1957, they have had 3 generations of management in the owner’s family.

— Why is the soft serve so delicious? The answer is fresh milk. We saw them pouring gallons of Reiter milk into the machine that mixes the 95% fat free treat.

— All of the menu items are favorably priced.. even the largest soft serve cones are a little more than $2. It is very cheap to eat here …

A Flurry and a Footlong Dog

Jet Freeze has chocolate and vanilla soft serve as their mainstays and these cones are delicious.

But we have a few MUST EATS, that you need to know about.

MUST EATS:

PEANUT BUTTER SUNDAE:
Homemade peanut butter sauce, mixed on site. It is a secret recipe, guarded by a few. We think it is addicting and one of the richest, best tasting sundaes we have ever eaten. Get whip cream, nuts and a cherry. Those extras make the sundae.

FOOTLONG HOT DOG:
Nothing super special, just a cheap, good throwback. You can’t get a good footlong anywhere anymore these days. Grab it with onions, mustard and relish.. or go full out 1970’s NY Coney style chili dog.

STRAWBERRY SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM:
They also specialize in strawberry ice cream, a flavor that is rare in soft serve circles. The management told us the strawberry flavoring is specially mixed by employees for that great one of a kind taste. It is some of the best strawberry ice cream we have ever had.

The Banana Split from Jet Freeze

BANANA SPLIT:
Your typical sundae with 3 scoops of vanilla, one drizzled with hot chocolate, one with pineapple topping, and one drizzled with strawberry flavoring. Two banana boats down the side make this a massive monster of a sundae.

BLUEBERRY SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM:
Only available late May through early September, this is the same as the “smurf ice cream” offered at King’s Island. It is rare and hugely popular. We bet you fall in love with this one too.

Honorable Mention: Hot Fudge Sundae (always a winner), and the Butterscotch or Banana Malt Shake which will melt you into your chair with pleasure. Did we mention the BBQ Sandwich ain’t bad too ?

Stay tuned to this old school ice cream shop, as they add new menu items. Even when it is cold outside this winter, they will be cooler inside. Survive the winter’s deep freeze, at Jet Freeze ! We are glad to see them decide to stay open year round, we guess “cooler heads prevailed.”

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Please browse our photos below for more on the deliciousness that is Jet Freeze.