Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Dayton Dining

Locally Grown Food & Local Beer On The Menu at Brewery Dinners

By

ceh1jvfc6mm01rxkwqwmiuuudywnsx0vThe Yellow Springs Brewery,  located at 305 N Walnut Street in Yellow Springs, is celebrating the Autumn Equinox with two  local food special events this month.

On Tuesday, September 23rd starting at 6:30pm Yellow Springs Brewery will partner with Chef Patrick Sartin of Harvest Mobile Cuisine to host a 3 course beer dinner to celebrate Nature’s Bounty.   Reservations are required for this dinner and can be made for $55 per person by calling 767-0222.  The three courses, which will be paired with beers to be named later, are:

 

Seasonal Greens
Variety of Patchwork Gardens field greens with roasted beets, toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese and maple vinaigrette, served with a butternut squash fritter

Free Bird
One half of a slow roasted Hill Family Farms Chicken, acorn squash, braised Swiss chard, and fennel puree with sage brown butter

Pumpkin Cheesecake
with graham cracker crust, and apple chipsimages-1

 

The following week, on Tuesday, September 30th from 7-9pm the brewery will partner with Andrea and Chris Hutson, the culinary duo behind Harvest Moon to offer vegan tapas centered around fresh locally sourced ingredients.  Brewmaster Jeffery McElfresh will discuss each food and beer pairing.  Tickets for this event will run $40 per person and again, reservations are suggested.

Dayton’s Best Fish Fry Opens the Fall Season This Friday

By Leave a Comment

Freshly Breaded Icelandic Cod at Our Lady of the Rosary’s Fish Fry

The #1 Fish Fry as ranked by Food Adventures is kicking off their first Fish Fry of the season on Friday Night !!

The place is OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY CHURCH in Dayton who has been hosting these events for over 54 years !

We are the only ones with the scoop on this incredible deal and fun night !!

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— WHERE: Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 22 Notre Dame Ave. in Dayton

— WHAT: Fish Fry  – **21 and over only !**

—NEXT: Friday, October 10th  & Friday, November 14th 

Click to Enlarge these Sausages

— COST: $13 if you pre-pay at the Parish Office, or $15 at the door the day of the event.

 

— INCLUDED: Freshly fried Icelandic Cod, Fresh Mild Sausage, Hot Polish Sausage, Chicken Strips, French Fries, Baked Beans, Salad, Cole Slaw, Homemade  Cakes, Cabbage and Noodles, Ice Cream, Popcorn, Soft Drinks, and Beer.

— WHEN: 5:30pm – 10:30pm 

— WHAT ELSE:  Gamble on pull tabs and raffle prizes!

 

 

MUST EATS:

— THE FRESHLY MADE MILD SAUSAGE: Made locally, with an old recipe that has been used for 50+ years.  Some of the best stuff we’ve had !

— THE FRESHLY BREADED COD: Made in large “sticks,” you can have all you want of these !

— HOMEMADE CAKES: Chef Joe makes these himself on site !  

Our Lady of the rosary Church – 22 Notre Dame Ave.,  Dayton, Ohio

 

What makes this event great is the friendly volunteers.  The staff are kind, dedicated and have been doing this for years.  The party is all inclusive and you are not “nickel and dimed” for extra beers, etc..  For these reasons, this is the best fish fry in the Miami Valley area, in our humble opinion.  There are old folks, young folks and ages in between.

So now you know about this little known secret.  Will we see you on Friday?  No better place for a Food Adventure !

Browse the photos below of the food and offerings at the event!

Are you a Dayton Foodie?  Then “LIKE” Food Adventures on Facebook HERE !

 

[flagallery gid=105]

Taste of Troy This Saturday

By

taste_of_troy_poster_2014_for_web_240xTroy Main Street, Inc. presents the 2014 Taste of Troy on Saturday, September 13th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  The event is held annually in downtown Troy to showcase local restaurants in the picturesque town square.

Visitors can sample the culinary delights of thirteen hometown restaurants, listen to live music, shop at the Downtown Farmers Market, participate in beer and wine tastings, and visit dozens of downtown shops.

Expect to taste a wide range of food from a variety of independent restaurants including Italian, Mexican, classic American fare, locally grown and raised, and more.  New participants in this year’s Taste of Troy are Brittney’s Cakes, Little York Tavern, and Basil’s on Market.

“Tastes” for sale include a diverse array of menu items featuring up to three different offerings from each participating restaurant.

To satisfy a hunger for entertainment, several musical performances are scheduled for Prouty Plaza throughout the day. Slated to perform are A Sweet Sound, Megan Osman, Colin Richards, and Southbound.

“Troy is unmatched in the quality and quantity of independent restaurants for a city of its size,” observes Andi Trzeciak, director of Troy Main Street.  “The Taste of Troy provides an opportunity for people to sample signature dishes from a wide variety of restaurants while enjoying live music.”

Two downtown establishments, La Piazza and The Caroline, will offer wine and beer tastings on their respective outdoor patios.  The Downtown Troy Farmers Market will extend its hours until2:00PM.

Admission to the Taste of Troy is free and open to the public thanks to the generosity of Gordon Orthodontics, the Miami Country Visitors and Convention Bureau, WYSO, and the Troy Tribune.

Tickets for food tastes and drinks can be purchased at the Taste of Troy. For additional information, contact Troy Main Street at 937-339-5455.

Whoo Cooks for You – The Region’s Top Chefs- That’s Who!

By

whooTablesIn what has become an annual tradition, on Sun, September 14th from 4-8pm under the trees of  Glen Helen  local chefs join together to create a  culinary adventure to benefit The Glen Helen Raptor Center. These chefs from the area’s top restaurants will provide a bountiful six course feast sourced from local area growers.

Prior to dinner, in true raptor fashion, devour mouth watering charcuterie from “Smoking Goose” and sip a signature cocktail; Raptor’s Delight, while you tour our Raptor Center. Then, move on to our fine dining tent, refill your beverage and bid on our themed “Birds of Prey Silent Auction”. Further support our programs by choosing to “Adopt a Raptor”.

 Here’s the 2014 Menu:

Chef Elizabeth Wiley

Meadowlark – Wiley 
Hors d’oeuvres on the lawn of the Raptor Center
Stuffed Mushrooms, Chinese Dumpling-style
Peaches and Belletoile Cheese wrapped in Fennel-Peppercorn Salami
Celery Sticks stuffed with Green Chile Pimento Cheese
Fried Green Tomatoes with Chowchow Mayonnaise

Fresco – Chef Jenn DiSanto
Sweet Corn and Chevre Flan with Summer Succotash,
Arugula and Basil Pesto and Za’atar Marinated Prawns

Carr

Chef Carrie Walters

DLM – Carrie Walters
Thai Chilled Melon Soupwith Ginger,
Chili and Fresh Herbs

Roost – Dana Downs
Butter-poached Lobster and Fulton Farm Wild Mushroom Tortelloni with Lemon Burro Bianco Sauce

Wheat Penny – Liz Valenti
Porchetta with Double Corn Polenta and Fresh Fennel and Olive Salad

Ann_Kearney_Rue_Dumaine

Chef Anne Kearney

Seasons –  Doug McGregor
Cheese Course:
Blue Jacket Dairy Feta in a filo cup, drizzled with White Mountain honey
Seasons’ own housemade Rosemary Queso Fresco and heirloom cherry tomatoes with corn tortilla chips
Yellow House Sheep’s Milk Blue Cheese with apples and raspberries

Rue Dumaine – Chef Anne Kearney
Dessert:
Café au lait pot de crème,
bittersweet chocolate ganache,
Mississippi crackle cookie

Enjoy great music, a silent auction, Ohio wine and beer, and close encounters with our education raptors, Glen Helen Naturalists and Director of our Raptor Center, Betty Ross.

End your evening with an exceptional decadent dessert that will melt your senses and send you home with the satisfied feeling that you have indeed made a difference in the rehabilitation and care of Raptor’s at Glen Helen.

Limited seating available, purchase your place at the table for $150 now by visiting www.glenhelen.org or call Ann Simonson at 937-769-1902 ext. 1103.

 

30 Dayton Foods, You Gotta Try Before You Die

By 68 Comments

The Chicken Monterey at Flavors

Now that Labor Day weekend is over, here are some of OUR labor of loves.. tastefully speaking, of course.  That is the theme of this week’s Food Adventure Article   They are the 30 best foods of the Miami Valley that you probably haven’t tried.

Little known Dayton Foods that are underground classics.   

Now that you know the skinny, let’s get down and dirty with our Thirty. 

 

These are the are the 30 DAYTON MUST EATS You gotta Try, Before You Die:

1) THE SPLIT FILET SERVED WITH DRAWN BUTTER at THE PARAGON:  This steak isn’t on the menu, so you have to request it.  It is a little known secret that will melt in your mouth.  Perfectly cooked, the sinful act of dipping the steak in drawn butter is something for royalty.  Try it and see why the Paragon Supper Club is a fixture in Centerville.

 

2) CHICKEN MONTEREY from FLAVORS: Healthy meets savory in this dish.  Honestly, one of our favorite meals in the Dayton area.  The food is consistent.  Why? Quality, fresh ingredients.  Chicken Monterey is a solid dish every time.  It is served with a side of tortilla chips and the amazing garlic sauce (now available at Dorothy Lane Market).  And guess what, it is a healthy meal.  What more can you ask for ?

The Caroline Steak, at The Caroline Restaurant in Troy

3) SPRING ROLLS WITH VERMICELLI NOODLES at LITTLE SAIGON:  The best $8 you will ever spend.  Dip into the giant bowl with a pair of chopsticks and enter a Food Adventure.  Vermicelli noodles, topped with diced, vegetarian spring rolls.   Under the noodles, is a surprise of bean sprouts and lettuce.  Served with a side of vinegar sauce and topped with chopped peanuts, this little know Dayton gem is your go to for Vietnamese Food.. Trust Us ….

4) THE CAROLINE STEAK at THE CAROLINE RESTAURANT:  You will be in awe of the special, stainless steel knife served with the meal, but don’t take it home like some others have… Choose the handmade sweet potato fries as a side dish and an appetizer of whiskey or bourbon mushrooms, and this will be one of the best meals you will ever have.  We have to mention that the great staff makes The Caroline a perfect places for a date, party, or special occasion.

5) BLACK BEAN BURGER at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: We have never been black bean burger fans, until we met Chef John at the Centerville Farmer’s Market.  We tried one that was being grilled at the market, and was converted.  We respect the black bean now.  The burger is large, hearty and filling.  We recommend adding a slice of cheese.  It satisfies your carnivorous cravings.

6) 10 EGG OMELET FROM TANKS: One of the things we learned growing up in Dayton, is that there aren’t many late night eateries.  Thank God for Tanks.  If you love breakfast, they serve it any time of the day.  This is a delicious omelet that will bust your gut, and you wont eat the potatoes or toast that comes with it.  If you have a normal appetite, we recommend the 6 egg girly omelet.  The omelet has a multitude of ingredients, and whatever Tanks decides to throw in that day.

The Cheese and Onion Sandwich from Central Perc in Oakwood

7) GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH with WHITE CHEDDAR and APRICOT CHUTNEY from MEADOWLARK: One of the most simple sandwiches, is one of the most satisfying.  Ohio Northern Cheddar and apricot chutney make this incredible cheese sandwich.  Served on Dorothy Lane Market Artisan Bread, you have a guaranteed winner here.  After you it it, you will find yourself trying to replicate it at home.  

8) CHEESE AND ONION SANDWICH from CENTRAL PERC:  For the adventurous, we give you a British Sandwich. How do you get one?  Ask the owners who grew up in a small village in England to make it they way they way grew up with..ahem.. the “proper” way.  They will probably throw some butter  and Branston Pickle on there (you may want to google this pickle).  Your breath will be horrendous, but you will be happy.  On a side note, Rosie the pastry chef is insanely talented.  An incredible sandwich and tea room that is open limited hours, and accepts Cash Only.

9) BLACK N BLEU BURGER from SEAJAX: The new kid on the block, this burger is a symphony for your taste buds.  We have been all over like Terry’s Turf Club which was supposed to be the best Ohio burger per Guy Fieri, but we think this one is better.  Spend $8 and get a “corporate hamburger” (thank you Michael R Hawk), or spend $10 and get a handmade hamburger with swirled bleu cheese that will knock your socks off.

Summer in a Bowl Salad from Olive, an Urban Dive

10) THE BOURBON BURGER from BRIXX ICE CO.: This is one of our favorite burgers in the world.  It is a burger with bourbon glaze on it that makes you cry “hell yes.”  Great patio for the divas, but we prefer the bar stool seats and chowing down.  Thanks to childhood friend, owner/chef Chris Bhai for the developing a sauce that makes this burger a “must eat.”

11) HUEVOS RANCHEROS from SUNRISE CAFE:  We crave this incredible breakfast dish from the best kept secret in Yellow Springs.  The dish is corn tortillas, topped with eggs, and a black bean sauce, garnished with fresh salsa and sour cream.  Dont go hiking, instead, grab breakfast here.  They trumpet the fact that they have no deep fryers, no microwaves, just kick butt food.  Worth the trip to organicville.

12) SUMMER IN A BOWL SALAD from OLIVE, an URBAN DIVE:  Local freshness, local ingredients.  We absolutely love it.  If an artist made a salad, it would be “Summer in  a Bowl.”  We can’t put the ingredients on here, because the ingredients are seasonal.  Olive, only uses top quality materials.  Open your mouth and prepare to be dazzled.  It wont bust your budget or your pant line.

 

13) CALAMARI APPETIZER at FRANCO’S: Get the deep fried option dusted with Parmesan cheese and olive oil.  The Big Ragu, the king of fried food, usually says “Oh my god” in a over dramatic tone when they are served.  This is a tradition, when preparing for a big Italian meal at Franco’s.  Stay hungry my friends…The deep fried whole tilapia from Taco Loco

14) THE PAELLA from EL MESON: Watching them prepare it is half of the fun.  Listening to owner Bill Castro explain his passion for food and the pivotal role food plays in life is a great experience in itself.  Chef’s sprinkling rice and seafood shells while walking around the huge paella pan and flirting with the crowd.  By the time the dish is served we have teased our eyes and the aroma is amazing.  We love this family and their food.  Try this place out, if you haven’t, you aren’t experiencing Dayton.  

15) WHOLE, DEEP FRIED TILAPIA at TACO LOCO:  You can go to another restaurant and get this dish for $30 or you can get it for $8 at Taco Loco.  The dish that will freak your friends out, but leave you one happy foodie.  If you can stomach a whole fish on your plate looking at you, then this one is worth the stares… literally.  It is delicious and simple.

16) THE GRILLED PEACHES with GOAT CHEESE at LILY’s BISTRO: A seasonal treat that should be on the menu every month.  A stellar dish that steals the show at any meal.  Drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, this memorable side will blow your mind.  Thank you Lily’s for making us crave this on a daily basis….

Sweeney's Seafood House has the Best Raw Oysters in the USA !

Sweeney’s Seafood House has the Best Raw Oysters in the USA. Click to enlarge

17) THE RAW OYSTERS at SWEENEY’s SEAFOOD HOUSE:  The Big Ragu has tried oysters from coast to coast and north to south.  He concludes that the best raw oysters on the planet are at Sweeney’s Seafood.  Served on the half shell, these are chokers, not for the squeamish.  Grab a bottle of hot sauce and one of their micro brews and sling em back like a champ!

18) SPINOZIAN DELUXE PIZZA from SPINOZA’S: Homemade, fresh dough with Italian sausage, pepperoni, black olives, bell peppers,mushrooms and fontina cheese.  The pizza is always good here.  The crust is exceptional.  Pair it with one of their great salads and listen to a live band and sip on some local beer.  Not many people know about this place, but the ones that do, love it!

19) THE LAND AND SEA BLT at HARVEST MOBILE FOOD TRUCK:  This sandwich kick so much azz, that it won $10,000 for best dish at a Food Truck Rally.  Applewood bacon, smoked salmon and a ciabatta roll.  Then Harvest adds a sauce that is the money shot.     Follow this truck and see why poeple track them down all over town.  Chef Patrick continues to blow us away with cluinary creations.

 20) LOX & CHEESE CREPE at CREPE BOHEME: An ingredient list so simple, so good.  Salmon, capers and cheese all wrapped into a handmade crepe right before your eyes.  One of the reason we go to 2nd St. Market is to savor the crepes at Crepe Boheme.  Sabine is the ultimate crepe master, and her works of art will never let you down.  This is the real deal, a chef making the crepes.

21) THE PARIS OMELET at BUTTER CAFE: Love breakfast?  Love mushrooms? We suggest a spin using egg whites, goat cheese, a bit of onion and lot of mushrooms.  You haven’t lived until you take a bite of this omelet while overlooking Brown Street.  Guess what?  It is affordable and a protein powered breakfast.

The Ruck Sandwich from Dublin Pub

22) SHRIMP and SCALLOP NEWBURG at THE DOCK:  A creamy alfredo dish, with penne pasta.  This is like a pasta bake.  It is rich and delicious.  Can’t afford a trip to Florida?  Escape to The Dock in Enon and buy yourself a dinner dream, just like being on a pier.

23) THE RUCK from THE DUBLIN PUB: This is a dense beef brisket sandwich that is simply incredible.  The brisket is steamed in Guinness Beer. Topped with glob of cheese and onions, it is delicious.  It is a filling, guilty pleasure.  After eating this, you may want to call Richard Simmons to chase you around the yard in his ball hugging shorts and burn off the calories.  Or go hiking for his physique.

24) THE GYRO at CHICAGO GYRO’S and DOGS: Forget the fries, the sandwich is all you need. Loaded with meat, perfectly seasoned, it is a master piece as-is.  The atmosphere used to be sketchy at the old location, but the new location is kid friendly.  The gyros and dogs are still the same .. good food.  This place flies under the radar, and is an unsung Gyro..get it ?

Cow Patty Ice Cream even cures PMS.. that’s no Bull !

 25) DEL MAR TRIO at EL RANCHO GRANDE:  Want a great dish, at an unsuspecting place?  The order the Del Mar Trio at El Rancho Grande.  It consists of grilled lobster, tilapia and shrimp sprinkled with cheese on a hot fajita plate.  Served with tortillas.  Orgasmic.. yeah we said it..  Order one of these dishes and tell us we’re wrong.

 26) COW PATTY ICE CREAM from YOUNG’S JERSEY DAIRY:  We love this chocolate amazingness, and our friend Caryn Snyder says it is “the ultimate cure for PMS.”  It is dark chocolate ice cream, chocolate cookie pieces, chocolate covered toffee pieces and mini chocolate chips.  The cones are piled high and worth the drive to hippie Utopia.

27) THE PIZZA at SOFT ROCK CAFE: Yes, a karaoke bar has some decent pizza.  We don’t know if it is the thin crust, the cheese, or the toppings, but the pizza is addicting.  Our tip is to get at least 3 or more toppings, and try not to burn your mouth, the pies come out HOT!   Also, *** please note their kitchen is only open Thursday through Saturday at 8pm for weekend indulgence.

28) FISH WITH CHILI SAUCE at THAI9: This huge filet of golden fried fish is topped with a spicy chili sauce, and plated with a small amount of sauteed veggies.  The taste is slightly fiery and incredible.   The chili oil soaks into the fish, yielding the flavor, but keeping the crispiness.  A little known dish, off the beaten path, at a restaurant with a very extensive menu. Try it !

The Greatest Soft Pretzels EVER are at K & R Pretzel Bakery on Flesher St.

29) THE PLAYBOY ROLL at KABUKI:  Nothing says fun like a couple of grown adults trying to blow out a flaming sushi roll.  The roll contains Shrimp Tempura, Spicy tuna, and asparagus topped with cooked shrimp and a sweet glaze sauce.  It is then “barbecued” at your table, by being served on fire, inside an aluminum pouch.  The spectacle is one thing, but the best thing is whats inside the fiery roll of foil.  The answer is a scrumptious taste of Japan, right here in Dayton.

30) THE PRETZELS from K&R PRETZEL BAKERY:  These should be a Dayton Icon, but not many people know of this secret place at 1700 Flesher Ave.  Like a scene from Willy Wonka, the pretzel machine is fed a hand twisted raw dough pretzel, the dough is mechanically dipped in water, then hand salted before it is baked on a conveyor belt.  The machine is as long as a limousine, and it is fun watching the finished product come out at the end.  It is even more fun to eat the results:  A soft pretzel, that is the best we’ve tasted.

These are our 30 DAYTON MUST EATS, You gotta try before you die.  Little known secrets, and favorite hidden gems.   DID WE LEAVE OUT ONE OF YOUR FAVES?  WHICH ONE?  Is there one on the list you disagree with?  Are some of these items, your favorite too?  Please comment below!

Please check out our gallery below and “like us on FACEBOOK HERE !  We have some big things coming up this fall !  Hungry Jax, Chef House and the Big Ragu thank you !

[flagallery gid=104]

The Taste Takes Over Lincoln Park Commons Thursday

By

TCN274447_web_TASTErgbThe 26th Annual The Taste festival takes place this Thurs, Aug 28th from 5-9pm at Fraze Pavillion’s  Lincoln Park Commons.  As the Kettering, Moraine Oakwood Chamber’s largest fundraiser and premier food event in the region will showcase more than 40 restaurants as they offer their fare to attendees.  Live music, food and networking will be included in the event. You can also win incredible prizes! You can purchase tickets  online at  www.fraze.com  or stop by the KMO office at 2977 Far Hills Ave.  Enjoy samples of delicious food from a variety of local restaurants. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 on the day of the event and  children under 10 are $10 at the door.

 

 Participating restaurants include:

Ashley’s Pastries
Awesome Yogurt
BD’s Mongolian Grill
Bella Sorella Pizza
Brio
Butter Café
C’est Cheese!
Cheryl’s Cookies
Chicago Gyro’s & Dogs
Cheeky Meat Pie
Christopher’s Restaurant
Dixie Dairy Dream
El Meson
Figlio Italian Bistro and Bar
First Watch
Fleming’s Steakhouse
Fresco
Frickers
Hunger Paynes Food Truck
Lindy’s Gourmet Pet Treats
MCL Restaurant & Bakery
Mohawk Free Style Grill
Ms. Riley’s Cookies
Oinkadoodlemoo BBQ
Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt
P.F. Chang’s
Pa’s Pork
Rib in it BBQ
Shelly’s Cheesecake Co.
Subway
Sweet P’s Ice Pops
W.G. Grinders
Webster Street Deli
Young’s Jersey Dairy
and more!

Dayton’s Newest Food Truck: Jimmie’s StrEATery

By

Ht5A5mZo_400x400It’s been a long time coming, but we’re happy to announce that Dayton’s newest foodtruck, Jimmie’s StrEATery, will be debuting at Warped Wing Brewing Company this Wed, August 27th at 7:00 pm!

 Jimmie Brandell, the chef and owner of Jimmie’s Ladder 11 got started on his truck last year, thought he’d have it out by the end of last summer, then had a little back surgery and the truck was parked while he recovered.  But good things are worth waiting for and the food coming out of this mobile kitchen should be good!

Here’s the list of street eats  that will be for sale on the truck:

Sandwiches

$8 Fried Green Tomato “BLT”- Green tomatoes beer battered with Warped Wing’s Flying Rye IPA, apple wood bacon, fresh spinach leaves, and Siracha mayonnaise on toasted wheat bread.

$8 Tom’s Turkey- Thinly sliced turkey topped with, creamy coleslaw cut daily, and a sliced hardboiled egg on a toasted hoagie roll.

$9 Blackened Chicken Sandwich- Grilled blackened chicken topped with, apple wood bacon, grilled onions, tomato, Swiss cheese, and Baja white sauce, stuffed inside a toasted hoagie roll.

$9 Arugula Pesto Chicken Sandwich- Grilled chicken topped with arugula pesto, roasted red pepper, asiago cheese, and a balsamic reduction on a toasted hoagie roll.

Sides10488033_684649338270136_8792504751444318060_n

$3 French Fries- House cut French Fries deep fried to perfection.

$3 Creamy Coleslaw- Hand cut creamy coleslaw cut daily.

$4 Spinach Salad- Spinach leaves, red onion, cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, with a garlic vinaigrette.

$4 Jimmie’s New Orleans Style Gumbo- Chicken, Andouille sausage, shrimp, and okra

Chappys – Now Serving Lunch Daily

By

chappy'sChappys Tap Room & Grille, located at 2733 W Alex Bell Rd in Moraine, is now open for lunch every day at 11am starting today!  They have a special lunch menu with most of your favorites and some new items as well that include lunch baskets, pork tenderloin sandwich and beer brined pork chop sandwiches.

 

They will offer the lunch menu Monday through Friday from 11am to 3pm and then offer the full menu starting at 3pm.  Saturday and Sunday  full menu starsat 11am. And while you’re there, be sure and check out all the beers on tap, probably the best selection in Dayton!

  • Half Pound Charcoal Grilled Burger – served Chappys way – American cheese, red onion, tomato and mayo on the side
  • Bacon, Swiss & Mushroom Burger – 1/2 lb. Charcoal Grilled Burger topped w/Bacon, Swiss & Mushrooms
  • Davey Boy – Double Decker Charcoal Grilled Burger w/American cheese, lettuce & special sauce
  • Pulled Pork Sandwich – slow smoked, pulled and mixed w/BBQ sauce
  • Boneless Chicken Breast – Charcoal Grilled – Crispy Fried – Blackened – BBQ – served w/lettuce, tomato & red onion
  • Smothered Chicken Sandwich – boneless chicken breast smothered w/cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses, sautéed onions and mushrooms
  • Buffalo Chicken Sandwich – hand battered, boneless chicken breast tossed in mild or hot sauce, topped with choice of ranch or blue cheese, lettuce and onion
  • New Orleans Style Po Boys – dressed w/lettuce, tomato & mayo
  • Beer Battered Chicken or Blackened Chicken
  • Cajun Fried Shrimp
  • Fresh Fish Sandwich – Charcoal Grilled – Beer Battered – Blackened

A Second Helping of … North China Restaurant

By Leave a Comment

Mu-Shu Pork before it goes into the "burrito wrapper"

Mu-Shu Pork before it goes into the “burrito wrapper”

The best deserves a second mention.  Our feature article spinoffs, called “A second helping of “ are made for such occasions.  You may recall our article over 3 years ago where Food Adventures proclaimed to the world that “North China Restaurant has the best damn egg rolls ever!”  We decided North China is worthy of our “Second Helping” feature.  So hop on on our Food Adventure and grab some chopsticks, as we break through the Great Wall.  Let’s dive into a second helping of one of our favorite places in the Miami Valley, NORTH CHINA !

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY:

— Things have not changed a at North China a bit since our 2011 article, and that’s how we like it.  We have visited North China dozens of times since the last article.  Whether carryout or dine-in, we are never disappointed.  The food quality is still amazing and so is the consistency.

— The service remains top notch.  Your water glass is never empty, and you will never have that “where is our server” look on your face.

— This Centerville eatery is closed every Monday.  Also, every year during July, they take a family vacation and close the restaurant for about 10 days.

— Family owned for almost 30 years, you get to know the family when you come here.   They are friendly and the place is full of regulars who have been visiting for decades.

The Big Ragu happens to be one of those regulars, and we have eaten almost every item on their extensive menu since 1987.

So now, it is time to list the one-of-a-kind, earth shattering, ground breaking… MUST EATS for North China !

 

MUST EATS:

— MU-SHU PORK:  Like little crepes from the heavens.  These delicacies are made table side and are the Chinese version of burritos.  First, the tortilla like wrapper is primed with a plum sauce.  Then, a stirfry mix of pork, cabbage and veggies are loaded and wrapped.  Be careful eating these.  The burrito wrapper can also double as a water slide, shooting soy sauce and goodness down your shirt.  Big Ragu has a closet full of stained shirts that have been”touched” by his North China Mu-Shu Pork adventures.

— ZHA JIANG MIAN:  Say what?  We just call this #7 on the Korean Menu.  It is “lo mein” type noodles served with a sauce of black bean paste and stir fried pork.  This is a special dish that you must ask for.  One of the “secret tips” at North China is that they have a Korean Menu by request only.  In the mood for an exotic and authentic Food Adventure?  Get the Zha Jiang Mian, but make sure you ask them for hot sauce and the dry hot pepper too.  Being authentic, it is a little bland but a couple of spoonfuls of hot sauce brings this dish alive !

— THE EGG ROLLS:  Handmade, freshly made, every day.  The killer ingredient is the peanut dust or peanut paste used in these egg rolls.  Dip them in a mixture of soy sauce and sweet and sour, or mustard sauce.   The Big Ragu has such a strong addiction to these that we have written letters to Dr. Phil about it.

Mongolian chicken - omg good

The Mongolian Chicken is beyond amazing.

— MONGOLIAN CHICKEN: A honey-like glaze sauce on shavings of white meat chicken, over a bed of crispy noodles.  You can ask for it “spicy” like the Big Ragu does.  It is a perfect mixture of sweet and heat.

— ORANGE BEEF: Lightly fried strips of beef that curl when cooked.  This mouth watering dish is made with fresh orange peels, and a homemade brown sauce.  The incredible taste of this entree, makes it a favorite.

— CRISPY SHRIMP:  A deep fried dish that Big Ragu dreams about every other night.  This sweet concoction has a sauce with a yellow tint, and a tiny hot pepper kick.  If you wanna play naughty, get this offering over some white rice and go downtown to China Town.

— CRAB RANGOONS or CRAB ANGLE: Hand made every day by the owners.  If you order them, you will be fighting over the last one.

Honorable Mention:

Chicken Wings – Those damn chicken wings they serve you at lunch are so deliciously sticky, but you only get one served with a small crab rangoon.  Don’t fear friends, you can actually order a plate of these tremendous, sweet wings.  Or you just be a pain in the azz and ask for two wings and no crab rangoon with your lunch.

Pot Stickers – Yet another incredible appetizer from scratch.  They are steamed, then pan fried for that brown crisp edge.  The special soy sauce served with them is the secret to bringing out the pork flavor.

Hello noodles - the Korean Menu is good - tip: It needs some hot sauce

North China’s Korean Menu is by Request Only. Our favorite is this dish, #7 Pork Noodles with Black Bean Sauce (tip: add hot sauce to this dish to enhance flavor)

House Noodle Soup – We have been enjoying this masterpiece since the late 1980’s.  It is a huge portion at a cheap cost.  The big soup bowl is filled with noodles, shrimp, beef, scallops and a few veggies.  Such a large serving that The Big Ragu always takes about half of it home.  We suggest you get the “spicy” version, but you have to ask for it.

Szechuan Chicken or Shrimp – The best in Dayton, hands down.  Deep fried and a comforting mix of hot and sweet tastes.

Sizzling Rice Soup – The only kind like it in Dayton.  Been serving it since 1987.  Chicken, broth, light veggies and rice.  Makes you feel warm inside.

It was hard for us to just name a few of the menu items, because everything is so good here.  But we gave you a decent map to the dishes “you gotta try.”  Explore the menu, we have for almost 30 years!  So please, head to North China and as we always say .. “Wok dont run.”

 

A little note on what makes Food Adventures unique:

As our fans know, we don’t go to a place, get a couple of entrees and an appetizer, then write an article.  No, no, no.. we are different, we are Food Adventurers.  That means we visit a restaurant many times, different days, different times and eat practically everything on the menu before it becomes a feature story on Dayton Most Metro.  That’s what’s needed to get a feel for a restaurant.  That’s the difference when you are reading Food Adventures.  No drive-by visits or shared photo from a restaurant’s Facebook page.  Fanatical foodies appreciate the little known secrets and the inside scoop.  We do things you won’t see anywhere else: original stories, original events, and original ideas.  No stock photos here.  This philosophy isn’t something we ripped off or started yesterday. We have been doing this since 2008.  Food Adventures isn’t our job, it is our hobby and passion, so there is no agenda.  We can be honest about what restaurants we love without worrying about advertising or if they belong to a local club.  We are independent and free to write about whatever foodstuffs we want. That being said, please LIKE US ON FACEBOOK if you haven’t already !

Also, check out our photo gallery below of all things good at NORTH CHINA restaurant in Centerville.

[flagallery gid=103]

Carillon Brewing Company: Come for the history, stay for the beer

By

 

There’s no doubt about it, Daytonians love beer. Considering Dayton’s long history with beer, it’s no surprise we like to wet our whistles with the stuff. The brewing industry was booming in Dayton up until stupid Prohibition, and I like to imagine all of the great Dayton icons clinking together their mugs after a long day of inventing stuff. Luckily for us, Carillon Brewing Company will be giving us an opportunity to see what it was like to have a brewery in 1850’s Dayton. It’s kind of like going to an exhibit about brewing in the 19th Century and then getting to drink the beer, wine, and cider once they’re done… Come to think of it, that’s exactly what it is.

The Building

As you probably would imagine, creating an authentic 19th century experience in the 21st century is no easy task. But even before entering, the building’s brick exterior, hand-painted signage, and dozens of pastoral windows create an old-world atmosphere. When you pass through the giant wooden entrance doors, you see that brick paneling line the walls, and gigantic solid pieces of un-sanded timber wood provide the support to the wide-open, two story interior. The rustic wooden tables were hand-made by the staff, including Tanya Brock, the manager of Carillon Brewing, and Brady Kress, the President and CEO of Dayton History. The seasonal bier garden, which seats around 100 people, will feature an outdoor bar, and will be lit by live gas lanterns. To contrast the 1850’s atmosphere, behind-the-scenes areas are completely contemporary. The kitchen, for example, is full of pristine stainless steel. However, these modern amenities don’t take away from the experience of stepping into a 19th century brewpub.

The Restaurant

The restaurant, which will be open for lunch and dinner, will feature dishes that are inspired mainly by German cuisine, but will also have influences of Irish and English fare. The inspiration for the menu comes from the fact that many of the early Dayton breweries were owned and operated by 1st or 2nd generation German families.

The Brewery

In the main dining area (which seats around 180 guests) sits the brewery, which is a two story, three-tiered brick oven. It will serve as both a functional brewery and an interactive exhibit; patrons will not only be able to sample the beer, but will get to aid in the brewing process. This alone makes Carillon Brewing Company a unique visit for Daytonians and tourists alike. Once the beer has finished fermenting and conditioning, it will be served out of taps in oak barrels. The brewing system will utilize good ol’ fashioned fire for heating, and gravity to move from the mash to the boil.

Closing a 164-year gap

It’s hard not to be excited about Dayton after visiting Carillon Brewing. As with the other exhibits at Carillon Park, they strive to make the experience as authentic as possible. It’s worth visiting for a number of amazing reasons, not the least of which is pre-prohibition beer.

They will be having a soft opening on Friday, August 22nd. The restaurant and brewery will be fully operational within a month. The hours will be Monday through Saturday 9:30 AM -10:00 PM and Sunday 11:00am- 10:00pm, with food service starting at 11:00am daily.

Special thanks to Tom Gilliam of @DaytonGram and @DaytonHistory for providing photographs.

Bee Original: Barenjager’s 5th Annual Bartending Competition

By

CSC_0051Do you have what it takes to be named America’s best bartender? Barenjager Honey Liqueur, the original honey liqueur made with pure premium natural honey, is on the hunt for you! Professional and amateur mixologists across the country are invited to submit their most innovative original cocktail creations incorporating Barenjager Honey Liqueur, Barenjager Honey & Bourbon, Barenjager Honey & Tea or Barenjager Honey & Pear for a chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to “BEARlin,” Germany and $1000. 

Esteemed industry tastemakers will score all submissions and select the top six cocktail recipes using one of Barenjager’s all natural liqueurs to move on to the final round where the bartenders will mix-off at Flatiron Hall in New York City on October 6, 2014. To sweeten the pot, all guests will “Bee the Judge” to determine an audience favorite, who will take home a check for $1,000. This year’s esteemed panel of judges includes:

  • Andrew Knowlton | Restaurant & Drinks Editor Bon Appetit Magazine
  • Gary Regan | Author of The Joy of Mixology and host of www.gazregan.com
  • Leo Robitschek | Bar Director at Made Nice: Eleven Madison Park and The NoMad Hotel
  • Sean Kenyon | Tales of the Cocktail 2014 American Bartender of the Year, 3rd generation Barman from Denver and proprietor of Williams & Graham in Denver, CO

To enter the competition, visit www.BarenjagerHoney.com and complete the online 10482127_10152708852243273_6966557279421690330_nregistration form bySeptember 12, 2014. Must be at least 21 years of age to enter. No purchase necessary. The official rules and regulations can also be found on this site. *Contest is not open to residents of California, Texas, Hawaii and Alaska.

During the 15th century, the Eastern Prussian bear trap company, Teucke & Konig, first introduced Barenjager, which translates to “Bear Hunter.” In an effort to end the struggle between man and bear, this sweet concoction was the first professionally produced Meschkinnes – mead-like moonshine made from honey by beekeepers and farmers – and was formulated to aid hunters attract bears and lure them from their dwellings. The alluring spirit’s recipe was slightly altered in the 18th century and continues to serve as the original honey liqueur enjoyed around the world today.

BBQ, Blues & Bacon – Dayton’s Newest Festival

By

pigfestCombine the area’s finest BBQ restaurants, then mix in the rage that is sweeping the nation, BACON! Add some blues bands, 30+ craft vendors, a kids zone with bounce houses, clowns, face painting and balloons and you’ve got Dayton’s newest festival PIGGFEST USA.  Debuting this Friday from 5-10pm and Sat 10am -9pm at the Dayton Expo Center, Dayton native Chad Mullins is “excited about bringing Pitmasters for all over the country together for some for some of the best BBQ ever.”

Ribs, Brisket, Pulled Pork, Chicken, Bacon from:

  • Company 7 BBQ
  • Rudys Smokehouse
  • Pigtails BBQ
  • The Tin Roof
  • Piggin N Grinnin
  • Fatbacks BBQ
  • Porkys Smokehouse
  • Boston’s Bistro and Pub
  • Brixx Ice Company
  • G’s Cue BBQ
  • Bob Evans
  • Off the Bone BBQ

also on hand Waffle World, Rhonda’s Homemade Candies, Ritter’s Frozen Custard and Amaizing Grace Kettle Corn

10394554_10202270745631831_2412244247669876088_nBANDS – Friday

BANDS – Saturday

 

Ticket Info

 

  • Adults $7
  • Kids 7-12 $5
  • 6 and under FREE
  • Ticket good all weekend with hand stamp

$2 off coupons available from the PigFest website.

DMM Ticket Giveaway:
We’ve got your hookup for BBQ & Blues, just like this post,  fill out the form below, and leave a comment on why you should win tickets and we’ll announce three winners of a pair of tickets Wed night!  [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

 

Cheers To Beer Week!

By

_MG_7621The fifth annual Beer Week officially kicks off today with a parade through the Oregon District at 4:30pm.  I remember viewing the inaugural parade in 2010, standing in front of Blind Bob’s.  I think it lasted about 3 minutes and featured Thai 9’s Sweaty Betty, a flatbead truck and about 60 people.  Today’s parade, which starts at The Dublin Pub, promises  a kazoo ban from Blind Bob’s, Dayton Brew Tour’s Groove Machine handing out samples of MikeSells new Beer Can Chicken Potato Chips, a large contingent of owners from Fifth Street BrewPub and much more.  The parade will end at Thai 9 where the ceremonial opening of Beer Week begins with special cask tappings from Warped Wing Brewing Co. and Toxic Brew Co., plus numerous craft draught beers will be tapped beginning at 5 pm.  Mayor Nan Whaley will be tapping the first cask.

The popularity of Beer Week continues to grow and  there are over  80 events on our calendar from tap takeovers, tasting and beer dinners. Due to the ever changing nature of these events, please check with your favorite beer bar for late additions or changes. Also many bars will be featuring special pricing and glass giveaways all week long.  Check out the beer dinners that are scheduled, and please check with each business about availability and the need for reservations.

Beer Dinners:

8/17 -23

The Melting Pot– four courses perfectly paired with four craft beers

Monday, 8/18 –

Rue Dumaine – Mad Tree Brewing Tasting DinnerDBW-Logo-no-date

Tuesday, 8/19

Archer’s Tavern – New Holland Beer Dinner

Spinoza’s Summer Beer Dinner featuring Rhinegeist Brewing Co.

Meadowlark Beer Dinner

Wed, 8/20

Jay’s Seafood Toxic Brew Dinner

McCormick & Schmick’s Samuel Adams & Great Lakes Throw Down Dinner

Thurs, 8/21

Jay’s Seafood Toxic Brew Dinner

10514553_10152224993913295_1017374682595554103_nThe Grand Finale of Beer Week is the ultimate area beer tasting – AleFest, which takes place on Sat, Aug 23rd. As we hope you’ve heard by now, there are a few changes this year. First the location- moving north to Wegerzyn Gardens gives the event room to spread out and plenty of free parking.  Also they have added a VIP tasting with 500 tickets available offering beer enthusiasts the opportunity to enter at 1PM to mingle in a relaxed environment with brewery representatives and industry experts. VIP tickets are $50 and only available for purchase online here!    General admission tickets, $40 at the door or $35 in advance, include 20 tasting tickets, a commemorative glass, and program guide. Designated drivers will be admitted for $15 and will receive a commemorative tasting glass as well as complimentary soda and water. No one under 21 will be admitted.  


We just heard from the folks at AleFest that they could still use a few more volunteers to pour beer.  The shift is from noon – 5:30pm and you’ll get your very own AleFest T-shirt in exchange for your time.  Sign up here to get one of these coveted spots.

Cheers to Beer Week!  Feel free to add a comment below about where we’ll find you sipping a tall cold one!

Dayton’s Housemade Sriracha Craze Continues !! **Bottle Giveaway !**

By 14 Comments

Food Adventure in a Bottle – Housemade Sriracha, a Dayton Original

We had to follow up on our own Chef LeeAnne House and her Sriracha sauce, because it has really taken off since our first article–>read here.  Want a bottle of her amazing sauce for free??  Then comment on the story below and you will be entered into the contest.   One name will be chosen at random next week.

The locally made Housemade Sriracha Sauce is a “must eat” and must have condiment.  It has popped up at various vendors all over town, and is now stretching to Cincinnati, Columbus and beyond.

Haven’t tried it yet?  Well this Sunday, is a perfect time.

— RELEASE PARTY FOR THE NEW SRIRACHA BEER at TOXIC BREW this SUNDAY, AUGUST 17th at 1PM.

Two popular Dayton brands collide as Toxic Brewery releases their Sriracha Beer made with Housemade Sriracha Sauce.  It is a Food Adventure in a pint.

Get to 431 E. Fifth St.,  and enjoy some beer and food samples made with Housemade Sriracha.

Other events include, a couple of weeks ago, when the DOROTHY LANE MARKET SCHOOL OF COOKING CLASS featured, HOUSEMADE SRIRACHA.

Toxic Brew Launches Sriracha Beer Sunday, Aug. 7th at 1pm couple of weeks ago,

 

Attendees got to learn from the best, Chef Jenn DiSanto, but they were also able to meet and greet Chef LeeAnne House, the owner and producer of the Housemade Sriracha Sauce.  Keep yourself updated with DLM School of Cooking as another class may be popping up soon.  Even a Food Adventure class.

Chef LeeAnne will also be at the Toxic Brewery event on Sunday, so make sure you visit and say ‘Hi.’

What’s next for Housemade Sauces?  Well since they have entered many major Ohio cities, look for them to expand vendors in those cities, and look for them in Indianapolis in the coming weeks.  So keep your eyes peeled for this sauce at a vendor near you!

We are proud of a true Dayton Original, LeeAnne House and her hot sauce!  So proud that Food Adventures wants to give a lucky fan a free bottle !

******* FREE BOTTLE GIVEAWAY *******

Just comment below and you will be entered to win a bottle of Housemade Sriracha.  One winner will be chosen next week at random.

Want even more heat?  Then add FOOD ADVENTURES to your Facebook by clicking HERE.

[flagallery gid=102]