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

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Quest for Dayton’s Best: Lasagna

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As a kid, I grew up on Chef Boyardee’s Lasagna. You know the kind. It came in a box with a can of sauce, powdered cheese, and lasagna noodles. It was fast, easy, and not terribly delicious. When my parents wanted real lasagna, we drove to Lebanon and ate at the Tavern. It was the best lasagna in town. It was a single serving in a metal pan, covered in tons of melted stringy cheese, bubbling with housemade sauce and it arrived with a mini loaf of french bread doused in garlic butter. My parents loved this place and I loved the lasagna.

Recently I found myself eating really mediocre lasagna with my son. He is attracted to the free breadsticks and mediocre pizza at this national chain. I sat there poking the pasta looking for the cheese and sauce I fondly remembered as a kid. I never found it. So I had more breadsticks while mapping out a plan to find that lasagna I remembered as a kid.

 

I found it! We are surrounded by great Italian food here in Dayton.

Jimmy’s lasagna with garlic rolls

Starting south of town I worked my way across the county and here is my report.

Troni’s Lasagna

Great lasagna isn’t far away. In Kettering, we have an abundance for every taste. While locals are divided between Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen on Woodman or Troni’s on Dorothy Lane, one thing is clear, the sauce is fresh and full of flavor. $8.99 gets you enough lasagna to demand an afternoon nap. Troni’s has a great salad and house dressing for their lunch special, Jimmy’s serves soup alongside their lunch. Troni’s delivered with pasta that was cooking perfectly and sauce with spice. Order extra garlic knots. Jimmy’s sauce is chunkier, which I like, and the rolls are soft and buttery, but I wanted the garlic and didn’t get it.

Mamma DiSalvo’s lasagna

I drove past Mamma Disalvo’s on the way to these two stops. The lasagna there is 100% Mama’s. The sauce is thicker, sweeter, and made with love. Mama’s lasagna is like my grandmas. The ricotta is noticeable and the pasta is cooked perfectly and still has a bite to it. It is covered in mozzarella and baked off to perfection. Order extra bread, you don’t want to leave any of that sauce on the plate.

For folks up north you aren’t far from great layered pasta and cheese either. Folks know Giovanni’s in Fairborn for their pizza and subs. Skip the pizza, order the lasagna. Portions large enough to share, you won’t want to but you could, and dinner prices make it so you can get the antipasto plate beforehand. Dinner is $13.00 with salad and housemade Italian bread.

My final suggestion for great lasagna in Dayton is Franco’s on 5th near the Oregon District. Franco’s has that old school Italian feel. Tuck in your shirt, grab a date and find a booth in the back. Settle in for great service and better food. Stop in for lunch and you will probably have Franco stop by your table. When ordering the lasagna at Franco’s get it with sausage in place of the beef. Get the salad with the house dressing and grab a napkin for your shirt. I’ve never had the beef lasagna at Franco’s because the sausage is always on point.
We are fortunate to have so many spots to grab a great pasta dish. On my quest to find the best, I rank these at the top. Other places to try include Palermo’s , Roma’s in Springboro and Napoli‘s in Miamisburg.
Where do you go when you are looking for great Lasagna in Dayton? Add your favorite to the list in the comments.

Quest For Dayton’s Best: Chicken Wings

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The Buffalo Wing was an economical snack created in response to late-night bar patrons looking for a quick snack. In the now famed Anchor Bar in Buffalo, more than 50 years ago, the Buffalo Chicken Wing was invented. PS. The guys who started BW’s (BW3’s) were students at Kent State from Buffalo and wanted that treat from home, so they opened a place.

 

Now…Dayton has no shortage of places to get wings. Everyone is getting in on the wing business but a few in the area do it right.

 

Quick disclaimer, I can’t in good faith review a wing produced by any chain that specializes in pizza. Wings that are 40 minutes old and delivered in a cardboard box is just wrong. Secondly, I left out two locally famous wing joints. For the record, I love having a tall beer and a plate of wings from Roosters or Frickers. I enjoy both equally. But…for this quest, I went to the little spots.
Today I am talking Dayton’s best wings, my favorites. A place where you can always get a great wing. The best if you will. Here’s where I land in my quest for the best of Dayton chicken wings.
1035 South Main Street
Centerville, Ohio 45458
Dayton Dragons Plaza
329 E. First St.
Dayton, Ohio 45402
Lock 27 is making magic one wing at a time. These are smoked. Deep-fried and full of flavor unmatched in Dayton. These aren’t the 10-cent wings of your college days. Crispy, but insanely tender and makes you wish you got two orders. The hot option comes in habanero peach and the mild option is a dry rub full of flavor without the heat. Lock 27 doesn’t stop there. They are making the bleu cheese dressing by hand with a little sriracha for an extra kick.
Grab one of their beers to accompany. Nothing better to wash down an order of these wings.

 

1001 S. Main St.
Englewood, OH 45322
These guys are more than brisket and pulled pork. Two reasons to make the drive north. Company 7 is smoking these wings in a wet marinade and then deep-frying to perfection when you order. These guys look like a standard naked wing until you take a bite. It’s the crispy fried wing you wish for with a smokey back-end you normally only get from a good slice of brisket or smoked pulled pork. The wing is one of a kind and is fall off the bone perfection so nothing is wasted.
Like Lock 27 you have options for beer to pair. Lock keeps 25 tabs of craft beers all the time. These wings are bold in flavor and will stand up to your favorite IPA or Dark Ale.

 

1443 N. Detroit
Xenia, OH
I like options. Nicks is a joint older than the chicken wing for which they’ve become famous. When I say options I mean options. Nicks offers their wings breaded or naked (no breading is my preference) and you can enjoy 14 different sauces.
Fire in ya Hole | Nick’s Secret Sweet Hot Damn | Original Hot | Spicy Garlic | Asian Cajun | General Zen’s | On The Fence | Sissy Sauce | Sweet Bourbon BBQ | Sweet BBQ | Sweet-n-Sour | Honey Mustard | Mild | Nick’s Dry Rub
I split my order between Original Hot and Sweet Bourbon BBQ. The BBQ is sticky and sweet with a hint of bourbon to keep it exciting. I like the hot with Bleu Cheese dressing. It’s the way the Anchor Bar intended.
Bonus…order your favorite wings with a waffle. Just try it. Something crazy good about a hot wing and a syrup-covered waffle and Nick’s does it right.

 

9496 Dayton-Lebanon Pike,
Centerville, OH 45458
2030 East Dorothy Lane,
Kettering, OH 45420
The World’s 2nd Best Wings. That’s how Archers bills them. These wings are huge and tasty. This is my go-to here in Kettering for a quick lunch. Available in Mild, Hot, Archer’s Style, Destroyer, Sweet BBQ, Hickory BBQ, and Chipotle BBQ. You guessed it, I get mine with the hot and always get the celery and bleu cheese. These are lightly breaded and deep fried. No tricks. Just good chicken with great flavor.
Keeping up with the theme of great wings and beer, Archer’s is no slouch in the beer area. They have 20 rotating taps but I stick with the Archer’s Ale. I’m a creature of habit and a good hoppy ale seems to work with the oil carried spice of a deep-fried wing.
Here are a few more spots to get great wings in Dayton:
A very traditional wing that never leaves you disappointed. Cooked perfectly.
Hard to beat the prices here. If you are wanting 10, order 15. Thank me later.
This is a great pub that happens to have fantastic wings, and gyros, Reubens, burgers, and a bevy of deep-fried bar goodness. Try the wings first. Then go back again and again.
Go ahead. Tell me. Where should I be getting great wings here in Dayton that didn’t make the list? 
P. S.  Occasionally I make my own wings at home. I’m gonna share a secret with you. I have found the best recipe for getting my wings to restaurant quality. Alton Brown makes it easy for anyone to make at home, no deep fryer needed.

Quest for $10 Lunch Downtown

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Affordable housing. That’s the supposed guarantee that redevelopment doesn’t become gentrification.  It’s a promise that there will be affordable housing so normal people can live in or near the newly redeveloped hip spaces that cost more than the suburbs.

I want that for food.

Affordable dining. With the introduction of “nicer” dining in downtown, Jollity, the Biscuit place, Sueno, and others, the hunt for a good lunch under $10 downtown are becoming scarce. Even that little Chinese buffet is almost $10 now for what is a less than stellar lunch buffet.

So, in good faith, here is my list of best lunches downtown for under $10.

Carmen’s Deli  (Stratocache Tower)
Carmen’s Deli Falafael Gyro for $7.95. I eat this at least once a month. No sides are necessary. With all the fresh veggies on top of that pita and crumbled Falafel, you can skip the chips or salad.

 

Benjamin’s The Burger Master  (North Main)
Beans and Cornbread with a wing or two at Benjamin’s Burger Master. If southern/soul food isn’t your thing, you can score a burger and fries well south of $10 there. It’s on Main street and delightful every time.

 

Blind Bob’s  (Oregon District)
Blind Bobs for a BLT and chips. Again, no-frills, just a great sandwich for a great price. When it’s colder I go for the Grilled Cheese with a cup of chili (or the pickle soup). You are still out the door for under $10.

 

Taqueria Garcia Mobil
7 Huffman Ave, Dayton, OH 45403 (937) 554-8196 (calling ahead speeds things up)
Tacos are $2.50 each now, but three will fill you up, leaving room for a can of cola and you’ve just had the best tacos for under $9.00. I like the chicken and chorizo mix or I get the steak. Get the street taco with cilantro and onion, skip the cheddar, lettuce, and sour cream. This ain’t Taco Bell.

Falb’s Restaurant (Over by Children’s Hospital)
If you have a minute for a short drive out of the business district, and you want a burger, or breaded pork tenderloin, with onion rings and a Coke for less than $8, get to Falb’s. Eat like a king for under $10 there. Check their daily specials.

Canal Street Arcade and Deli 
My final go-to when I can’t break the bank is the Club sandwich, half size, at Canal Street Deli. Grab a bag of chips and lunch is completed for about $9.00. My bar tab usually ruins this. A beer while you wait, a beer with lunch, cancel your one o’clock, and get another beer while you play a quick round of Golden Tee while heading to the door. Allegedly.

Where are you finding a bargain for lunch? Let us know in the comments.

Quest for the best of Black Owned Eateries

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I know my way around the Dayton food scene. At least the affordable food scene. I am not one for fancy dinners or $30 lunches, but I like to eat and I like to see and eat what Dayton has to offer.

People ask me all the time, where are the best wings, best burgers, best this, best that. I always have an answer.

Until recently. People started asking me about Black owned restaurants. I only knew of the two immigrant owned spots I frequent Nanyea Cafe (North Dixie) and Eden Spice (Central Ave in West Carrolton) as well as a food truck I hit up downtown on occasion (Courtland’s Mobile Grill).

So I had to ask, poke around Facebook a little and what I found is a bit surprising. There aren’t as many as I had thought. Also, one place I thought was Black-owned wasn’t. Still a favorite but not what I was looking for this time.

Here are the six Ill be visiting in the coming days!

The Chicken Spot
This place is more than chicken. Salads and a variety of sandwiches are on the menu. Pulled chicken thighs on a bun with mac and cheese as a topping? Yes. The Back Yard Medusa is an entire backyard bbq in one bite. This joint will add Collard Greens as a topping to the sandwich! I am not one for crazy sandwiches, but this one has my attention. Located on Siebenthaler near Philadelphia. Give them a follow on Facebook for hours and specials.

Twist Cupcakery
One of the sweetest spots in the Fireblock District is Twist. My afternoons are always made better with one of these cupcakes. Located on St. Clair, just south of Third Street. $2.50 wont buy you happiness, but it will buy you a cupcake, and that is pretty darn close. They have curbside pickup and deliver a “CupCake in a Jar” nationwide. Brownies, cookies and other treats can be found as well.

Fat Boyz BBQ

Today’s BBQ popularity can be attributed to African Americans solely. From Texas to Kansas City to Memphis, BBQ history starts with African Americans turning the less desirable cuts of meat into something delicious.

Their menus is pure bbq and they do something that few BBQ spots do, ribs by the bone. Pork Spare Ribs and Beef Ribs on the menu as well as something they call a Turkey Rib. I have to try it. Burgers and a turkey burger also make the menu. Southern sides round the menu, mac and cheese, collard greens, yams and grilled corn are great accompaniment to any entree.

Find them on Kipling Dr in Dayton Wednesday through Saturday. Check Facebook for weekly specials.

Stuffed Enuff

Soul Food joint doesn’t do them justice. With wraps and stuffed burgers on the menu, Stuffed Enuff is more than soul food. This is legit home cooked food with something for everyone. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all accounted for here

You gotta check out the stuffed breakfast burger! Imagine waffles or pancakes as the bun and let your imagination run wild.

Located on N Dixie, Stuffed Enuff is on my must eat list.

Alematic Artisan Ales

Dayton is a brew town, but did you know up north in Huber Alematic Brewery is Dayton’s only Black owned brewery? With 7 creations on tap, there is sure to be something you’ll like. Ive got my eye on the Hawaiian Passion Fruit Wheat, I like a good Wheat beer and this one sounds delightful. A few IPA, Stouts and Pale Ales round out the list. Grab food from from TJ Chumps delivered right to your table.

Alematic can be found at 6182 Chambersburg Rd. in Huber.

 

Grind House Coffee and Tea

Dayton has no shortage of coffee shops, but few have a legacy and history like Grindhouse. Bill Miller took his families passion for coffee and tea and made it a reality by importing single source coffee and tea from around the world. His shop is located inside the Meijer department store in Huber and is not to be missed. Grind House has iced coffee, teas, lemonades and every drink is hand crafted.

Grind House also leads the way in flavored coffees. My wife prefers something with a little sweetness, so their Apple Pie, Blueberry Muffin and Creme Brulee coffee blends really hit the spot. Check them out and all their merch at Meijer, 7150 Executive Blvd in Huber.

Making this list, and finding these hidden Dayton Gems isn’t easy for a white guy from the Suburbs. But, you can tell that these are spots and menus not to be missed. I follow Te’Jal on Instagram and YouTube for her show What’s The Biz. Whats the Biz is a web series that highlights the stories of black entrepreneurs. Check it out!

This episode tells the story best: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnL12Ai10ME

Check her out on Instagram too: Instagram.com/whatsthebiz_

Bryan

Quest For Dayton’s Best: Falafel

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It was five years ago I unexpectedly found myself in Istanbul for a few days. This was a great opportunity to eat some new foods. I tried the breads, some street foods, Turkish Delight, and a range of Pistachio pastries. But..it was a sidewalk cafe near a rug vendor where I first had falafel alongside a plate of hummus. I was no stranger to hummus, but falafel, a middle eastern hushpuppy that I come to love.

Five years later and still crave Falafel. Lucky for me Dayton is full of Middle Eastern descent restaurants who are serving great Falafel. Falafel is basically a chickpea hushpuppy. Basically ground dried chickpeas, parsley and cilantro, garlic, onion, other spices and balled together and deep fried. Eat it with tzatziki or a side of hummus. This is where I get the best in Dayton.

Carmens Deli
Address: 40 N Main St, Dayton, OH 45423

The Falafel Gyro. Think traditional Gyro but with fried falafel balls that are crumbled up in the pita alongside onion, feta, olives, lettuce and tzatziki. It’s basically a greek salad with falafel crumbled atop all sitting on a warm soft pita. I have one of these every month. No lie. Every month. Ask Haitham at the register. If you are feeling extra Greek, grab a piece of his baklava for good measure. This gyro is so big and full you won’t need a side dish, as good as the side salads and fries are, you won’t need them. Grab an extra tzatziki though. You’ll be wanting more of this tart, tangy, and creamy condiment for sure. $7.50 for lunch.

Mudlick Taphouse
Address: 135 E 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402

The Falafel Burger. Yes. Burger. Think Veggie burger but with flavor and substance. This falafel is pattied and fried and fills the bun. Topped with chipotle hummus, fresh greens and a tomato jam that would taste good on shoe leather. This entire sandwich is an experience. The falafel has a distinct punch of cumin and I like it. $12 and it’s worth every penny.

Olive Mediterranean
Address: 44 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45402

The Falafel Platter. This platter is complete with rice, a salad with feta, olives and tomato, warm pita and a pile of 5-6 falafel fritters. Deep green, crunch on the outside and Dayton’s best tzatziki served alongside. I love the crunch of the salad and it’s red wine vinagrette dressing accompanying the crunchy and creamy falafel. For $11 its a great lunch any day of the week.

The Gyro Palace (Dayton Mall location)
Address: 57 N Springboro Pike, Miamisburg, OH 45342

These guys know Falafel. They call it a wrap, but its basically a falafel gyro and I love it. There is something different about their version. It’s fried perfect and deep green color that comes from all the cilantro and parsley that is blended in. Calling it a Gyro suggests you can eat it politely with two hands, the truth is that it is overstuffed and you are gonna need a fork and extra napkins. At $6.50 its hard to beat the service, taste and price of the Palace south of town. They’ve recently opened up a Brown St. location as well.

Side note: I once had great Falafel from Trolley Stop. It’s not on the menu anymore sadly.

However, on my short list to try is:
Cedar Land Bakery
Address: 4515 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH 45432

Meadowlark
5531 Far Hills Ave Dayton, Ohio 45429

Just yesterday they introduced a new menu item- this Falafel Salad!

 

Where do you go to get Falafel? Have a recipe for your own? Share it in the comments below.

Quest For The Best: Hot Dog

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Springtime means the return of baseball, the opening of local ice cream and concession stands and the first firing up of the backyard grill. For me, its the return of the hotdog.
This uniquely American treat came here from Germany and quickly gained prominence on carts and at hot dog stands. Mostly associated with baseball and youth concession stands, the hotdog has made its way to menus across Dayton and we are happy about that.
Here’s where you can find the best hotdogs in Dayton:

Zombie Dogz

1200 Brown St #150, Dayton

Photo Cred: Yelp user Brett P (trio of dogs)
No one has done more to elevate the lowly hotdog than Zombie Dogs. I am not a Zombie guy. The entire genre confuses me. The menu at ZD does not confuse me. If it’s your first time here are a few reminders:
Get the tots. Trust me.Get a a few of the mini dogs. It is too hard to settle on just one dog. But. If you must choose just one. I’d suggest the Calling in Dead. It is their 1/4 all beef dog covered in Truffle Mac and Cheese with a Parmesan breadcrumb on top. It sounds heavy. Its not. Still get the tots. I’d also suggest the Chicago style, just ask for it. Juan of the Dead is popular as well, the big dog covered in pulled pork and bbq sauce. Crazy good. These are not concession stand, overly cooked mystery meat dogs. This is hotdogs on a whole ‘nother level.
Get the tots.

Rootbeer Stande

1727 Woodman Drive Dayton
Footlong hotdogs for under $5.00. You may remember I mentioned this place in my quest for the Best Pork Tenderloin, but when I want a good old school hotdog, the Stande is my go to. Here’s why.
Sauerkraut. Yes. Sauerkraut. Few places you can get a hotdog with it. They also serve Nathan’s all beef dog in a Chicago style, the Hound Dog with bacon and bbq sauce, and the Uncle Reuben. This one is made like a Reuben. Kraut, Swiss Cheese and 1000 Island dressing. Don’t wear your dress shirt for this one. The Dirty D. Bacon wrapped and deep fried. Don’t tell your doctor. Just order it with a Rootbeer and thank me later. Final two words. Onion Rings. Hot and fresh for you always at this drive up stand.

Gibbs Ole-Tyme Hamburgers

535 E Dixie Dr West Carrollton

Some would call this is cheap imitation of the Miamisburg Hamburger Wagon. Don’t listen to those negative people. This place has a similar burger, yes. But they also have one of the best hotdogs I’ve ever had in town. The Southern Dog. Deep fried along side the cast iron burgers, toped with mustard, chili, onion, mustard and slaw. Yes. AND SLAW. Its a big messy bite but perfectly balanced with hot and cold, sweet and savory. A perfect lunch is two sliders, one hotdog and a cold Coca Cola. If the Southern Dog is too much, go with the more familiar Coney Dog, coney sauce, onion and cheese.

Trolley Stop

530 East 5th Street Dayton
I’ve been known to say things like…Trolley..best patio in Dayton. Best chip dip in Dayton. Best Veggie burger.
However, the Double Dogs, a fork and knife kinda deal, should not be overlooked. Two beef hotdogs, chili (house made), onions, cheese and it comes with MikeSells chips and Herbie dip. I mentioned the dip earlier. Its worth mentioning twice. They’ve taken the hotdog to a new level here. It feels almost fancy.

Chicago Gyro and Dogs

3979 Indian Ripple Road, Beavercreek
Chicago Authentic
You’ve seen this place on my quest list before. They rank high in my book for Dayton’s best Gyro. For friends who ask for the best Chicago style dog, I send them here. Vienna Beef dogs are brought in from Chicago along with that neon green relish and sport peppers. They even have the poppy seed bug and celery salt on top like they do in the Windy City. Where else can you get an authentic Chicago style dog with authentic Chicago ingredients, made by a guy who hails from Chicago? Hint. This is the only place in Dayton and it’s only $3.00. They have a Cincy dog too, chili, cheese and onion and they are serving some of the best fries in town.
Where do you find a great Cuban sandwich? Let us know in the comments.
Check Bryan’s other quests:

Quest For The Best: Cuban Sandwich

Quest for the Best Biscuits and Gravy

Quest for Dayton’s Best: Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Quest for the Best Latte

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My dad, who was an over- the-road truck driver,  was a simple black coffee kind of guy. Donut shop, diner, or an exit ramp truck stop was his go to for breakfast and a thermos refill of coffee. His coffee usually came in a styrofoam cup from a driver’s break room or from an abandoned Mr. Coffee in the corner of the warehouse by the loading dock where he waited on the truck to be loaded. (bills photo)
Like my dad I am no coffee snob. I’m as loyal to Speedway as I am Starbucks. Both are convenient and fill my belly with warmth and varying degrees of caffeine. Dayton however has grown a more sophisticated taste for good coffee and good company. A recent boom of coffee shops has provided room for everyone here in town.  For fun, I took a tour drinking Latte’s in all the coffee shops in my part of town.
If I am not drinking a black coffee, I am probably enjoying a latte. I like it from a big mug. The kind that requires two hands to lift and tip. The latte is entirely Italian and kinda fancy. Often confused with a cappuccino, the latte is espresso with steamed milk and a little foam on top. Technically speaking, 1/6 espresso, 4/6 steamed milk and 1/6 foamy milk providing a frothy head. Perhaps more than you need to know. I like mine straight. No flavored syrup added.

Here is where you can get a great latte in Dayton:

Ghostlight

1201 Wayne Ave.
Latte: 16 oz $3.75
Drip: 16 oz $2.50
Everyone’s favorite. It’s comfy and familiar. This is where the Wayne Ave Coffee Trail begins. Check out this latte out. Shane has created a space akin to your favorite aunt’s living room. You will hear a great story, meet someone new and probably share a table with a stranger. Baked goods grace the counter and the baristas are in the know and will help you decide among a flavored latte, a cold brew or something unique just for your taste.

Wholly Grounds

825 Wayne Ave
Latte: 16 oz $3.00
The newest show on Wayne Avenue. Just a scone’s throw north from Ghostlight. Wholly Grounds is the most economical. Just $3.00 for the latte and the baked goods equally priced. My barista was one of the friendliest and the room the quietest on a weekday morning at 8. Plenty of room for a small meeting, friends enjoying cards or grabbing a chair in by the window and enjoying a good book alone.

Press

257 Wayne Avenue
732 Watervliet Avenue

Latte: 16 oz $4+
I stopped into the Watervliet location right after they opened. The latte was perfect. Perfect. Almost a bit too perfect. The room is minimalist in design. Not really cozy and the drink is made away from the counter. One the most expensive lattes, but the most technically correct of them all. Baked goods were few and limited to croissants and few scones.

Epic

22 West Stroop Rd. Kettering
Latte: 16oz $4+
Coffee, ice cream, sodas and the most expansive menu that included toast and bagels with a variety of toppings. This place is super comfy and I like being there. I always see someone from Kettering when I am there and it has real local feel. Uniquely Kettering somehow.  The one draw back is the unsolicited advice and history of your drink. I don’t need to know that you don’t offer a specific size of latte. Or why my latte is not a cappuccino or a variety of other tidbits you get when you order. I watched 5 customers in a row order and receive this chat about the drink they asked for. However, their latte was among my favorite. It tasted as if they used a ristretto shot, or a short shot of espresso and let the steamed milk carry that flavor. Currently my favorite for flavor, texture and beauty.

Boston Stoker

34 W Second St.,Downtown Dayton
Since 1973 Boston Stoker has been elevating Dayton’s coffee scene. Originally roasters, Boston Stoker has locations throughout the region for a great latte. Perhaps best known for the Highlander Grogg with its sweet syrup, bourbon flavor and whipped topping, these guys know how to pull a shot of espresso and will leave you dazzled with their latte art. The Downtown location features plenty of room for a meeting and quiet corners for taking a break with a book or podcast.
Side note: I really miss their old Centerville location and have been visiting their downtown 2nd St. location more often.

St. Anne the Tart

1500 E 5th St Dayton

16 oz $4+
Two words. Get there. Delightful unpretentious service. A great shot of espresso and a near perfect latte. Which was a surprise in a location billed as a bakery. Did I mention the service? My visit was disrupted only by some kids unattended and making a ruckus. That didn’t even turn me off to this quaint addition to the St. Anne’s neighborhood. Besides the coffee, service, and humble vibe, they have biscuits and jam, tarts and a list of baked goods I will go back for.
Visit the tag wall. Folks buy a treat or drink and leave it for a specific person. What a great way to share a smile with a stranger.

Gem City CatCafe

1513 E 5th S. Dayton
16 oz $4+
I am allergic to cats. My wife doesn’t really love coffee shops. We loved CatCafe. I get a great latte and time with a book, and for a few dollars more my wife enjoyed some cat therapy in the adjoining room. She had an iced tea and we shared a sweet treat. Don’t let the cats fool you, this is a legit coffee stop with baristas that can pull a shot and brew great tea.

3rd Perk

46 W. 5th St. Dayton,
16 oz $3.50
3rd Perk is oddly enough found on 5th Street and joins Wholly Grounds as the most warm and welcoming of coffee shops. This location is a great spot for early meetings and parking is easy to find on 5th or Ludlow. Pretty sure I saw the owner/barista delivery a drink curbside to a regular who just pulled up outside. This kind of service catches my attention every time.

Quest For The Best BBQ

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BBQ is personal. BBQ is communal. BBQ at its core is primal. Meat slowed cooked over smoke. Simple. But not easy to do correctly.

 

BBQ is the only food that has a definition codified in Federal Law. Title 9 of The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) defines it this way in Chapter III, Subchapter A, Part 319, Subpart C, Section 319.80

 

“Barbecued meats, such as product labeled “Beef Barbecue” or “Barbecued Pork,” shall be cooked by the direct action of dry heat resulting from the burning of hard wood or the hot coals therefrom for a sufficient period to assume the usual characteristics of a barbecued article, which include the formation of a brown crust on the surface and the rendering of surface fat. The product may be basted with a sauce during the cooking process. The weight of barbecued meat shall not exceed 70 percent of the weight of the fresh uncooked meat.”

 

I love BBQ and have traveled thousands of miles eating the best of Memphis, Alabama, St. Louis and Kansas City. I have learned a few things about BBQ. It is intensely personal. Whenever a chef or pitmaster spends 8, 10 or even 15 hours preparing a cut of pork or beef, you are eating the real fruit of labor. The rub, the mop, the sauce, all come from family recipes tested and tasted and tweaked over time.

 

BBQ is best enjoyed with family. Splitting plates. Telling stories. Savoring time around the table. Slow. Just like the preparation.
I’ve done some research and found that you don’t have to drive far for authentic BBQ. We have some great ‘cue right here in Dayton Ohio. Let me tell you about them. These are my favorites and if you like slow cooked smoky meat, they will be yours too. There are another 1/2 dozen places to get bbq in Dayton (that doesn’t count some remarkable food trucks). These folks are smoking ribs, brisket, pork, chicken and sausage over a real fire with real smoke. That’s the standard.

 

Hickory River BBQ (Regional Chain 6 locations Illinois and Ohio)
135 S Garber Dr, Tipp City, OH 45371
Hickory River in Tipp is worth the drive. Its a big family place and reminded me of the bigger Kansas City joints I have visited in recent years. By far the friendliest of my visits. My son and I split 4 ribs, brisket, a pulled pork sandwich and a 1/4 pound of the smoked sausage with two sides and drinks for under $30 dollars. My favorites here were the ribs and sausage. The pulled pork had a good amount of bark full of smokey flavor. My son says the mac and cheese was as good as he ever had. The slaw was fresh and made in-house.
Did I mention the prices and friendliness? I can’t wait to get back there. Tuesday’s are buck a bone rib nights.
Gotta Try: Smoked Sausage

 

1101 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45402
Texas Brisket and Texas attitude. By far the best brisket I have had in Ohio. Peppery, slow cooked, sliced right. Smoke ring and it had a good pull to it. Tender, but not pot roast falling apart. The sauce is kept behind the counter, ask for samples of both offerings. The sausage was great and the pulled pork sandwich was full of smoke and tender. Careful ordering the menu here. It get’s pricey fast. Pulled pork, sausage and a portion of brisket with two sides set me back almost $40 bucks. Ribs are sold by the slab and 1/2 slab only so we didn’t get to try them. Wings need to be ordered ahead by 20-30 minutes. Drink offerings are limited but beer is an option.
Gotta Try: Brisket

 

1334 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
Fatbacks is my go-to. It’s set up like the smaller joints in Memphis, which I love. His brisket is always tender and the best pulled pork is found here. His ribs have a sweet finish which I prefer. He also has a thing he calls a pig pop. It is the lower shank smoked slow and covered in a sweet sauce that almost candies on the rendered skin. Get one. No. Get two. Sides here are always great, from greens to slaw to beans.
PS. This guy is building smokers like the pros use when he isn’t feeding lunch to locals on Linden Ave.
Gotta Try: Pig Pop

 

OinkADoodleMoo (4 locations and WPAFB)
912 E Dorothy Ln, Dayton, OH 45419
I’d put Oink’s ribs against anyone in Dayton. I wish I could figure out the rub he uses there. The founders of Oink studied BBQ in Kansas City brought their newfangled smoking technology back home to Dayton and we benefit from that. Their ribs are never overcooked and always have a great smoke. I find their brisket to be a bit overdone and falling apart. Still tasty on a bun though! Wings. Get the wings. Smoked tender and soft and full of flavor. Not like your normal bar wings. The corn pudding should be a mandatory side. Brisket, wings, pulled pork and a few ribs and sides under $30 again. Perfect for a date or father/kid outing. Oink is also making burnt ends. A Kansas City invention.
Gotta Try: Ribs and get a side of the smoke potatoes

 

 

Combs BBQ Central
2223 Central Ave, Middletown, OH 45044
I really can’t say enough about this place. It’s out of range for lunch during the week but it quickly becoming my favorite on Saturday’s.
This laid-back spot is part of Downtown Middletown’s rebirth. These ribs are legit, always cooked perfect and the pulled pork has texture, great flavor and that spicy bark you want in every bite. Brisket doesn’t happen every day. Recently I was there when they had smoked an entire pot roast. Delicious on a bun with a touch of sauce. Prices are good and the service is tops and fast.
Gotta Try: Pulled Pork and Ribs
1001 S Main St, Englewood, OH 45322
Brisket. Check. Ribs. Check. Pulled pork. Check. The best wings in Dayton? Yes. You’ve got my word on it. They smoke wings in a marinade (a wet smoke) then cool them and deep fry them when you order. If you’ve never had them, get up there today. Crunchy outside with a soft smoky interior the wing is in a class all its own. The team of Company 7 is pushing the envelope with lunch specials and a drive-thru. That’s right. A bbq sandwich from a drive-thru. I’ve not timed it from Kettering, but I am considering it.
Bonus at Company 7…beer. More than 20 craft beers in cans and bottles and always a few Company 7 Brews on tap.
Gotta Try: Smoked Wings
I’m always looking for a new spot for great BBQ!  Tell us where yourgo-too place is for great ribs, brisket, pulled pork or barbecued chicken.
Speaking of BBQ- MostMetro.com and Bryan Suddith, a certified Kansas City Barbeque Society Judge are teaming up for a Dayton BBQ Tour! 
Join us this coming Saturday, Aug 4th at 1pm as we board the 937 Party Bus and we’ll visit OinkADoodle Moo, Fat Backs and Texas Beef and Cattle Company for this mobile meat feast.  We’ll make sure you get plenty to eat and  in between spots we’ll share a few brews on the bus and talk BBQ.  This tour  will be limited to just 12 people. $60 covers the bus transportation, beers and BBQ. Get your ticket here.

Quest for Dayton’s Best: Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

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When I worked on the West Side of Dayton 15 years ago there was a place in Drexel, an old-fashioned Root Beer stand that had the best fried Pork Tenderloin. It came on an undersized bun with pickles, onions, and mustard. For a few bucks, this slice of fried breaded pork could keep you satisfied until way past dinner. It was reminiscent of the Fried Tenderloin you could only get at the county fair when I was a kid.
Locally I could guess that the Fried Pork Tenderloin is some kind of adaptation of a  traditional German-Austrian schnitzel but didn’t have much of the traditional veal. Here in the Midwest, they had pork and that works for me.
I began to search for the best Fried Pork Tenderloin in Dayton and this is what I found:

 

Hasty Tasty
Address: 3509 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
Hours: Open today · 5AM–10PM
Phone: (937) 254-8431
The Pork Tenderloin is thicker and not as wide as I am used to. A light breading that is crisp and still juicy on the inside. Hasty Tasty, known to most as a great breakfast diner, is also the defacto standard for the meat plus two dinner plate. I get the Tenderloin for lunch and they serve it with tomato, lettuce, onion, and mayo. It was a departure from my normal mustard, pickle, and onion but it worked. It really worked. I almost didn’t finish my fries, or the chili I had alongside it.
$4.50 and for $2.50 you can add two sides like I did. Skip the salad, get the fries and a cup of the chili.

 

Address: 836 Watervliet Ave, Dayton, OH 45420
Hours: Open today · 11AM–2:30AM
Phone: (937) 258-1222
I know, I know. Go to Slyder’s get the burger they said. I did that. Then I got the Reuben, and then I had the Pork Tenderloin. I am glad I did. At this rate, I’ll never get to their famous wings and that is okay with sandwiches and chips for under $7.00. This tenderloin is thinner, the way I like, served with lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion. I left the pickle and onion, added mustard and we were headed down memory lane. Hot, crispy, then, hanging way over the bun like old times. Used three napkins and I am not even ashamed to say I wore some back to the office on my shirt.

 

Address: 936 Brown St, Dayton, OH 45409
Hours: Open today · 11AM–2:30AM
Phone: (937) 424-1784
I will freely admit that Jimmies is my go-to for a Shrimp Po-Boy. They make it like I remember from my days living in Baton Rouge. Man can not live on Fried Shrimp alone and for those days there is a huge slice of deep fried pork at Jimmies. It true Ladder 11 style, this thing is huge, like all their other sandwiches and comes with Dayton’s famous Mike Sells chips. They serve it with mayo as well and I always ask for mustard. Deep fried and crispy, thin and more meat than bun it’s a great spot for lunch. Too many beers on tap to name, you can get this lunch for $8.00.

 

Rootbeer Stand 

photo courtesy of Trip Advisor

Address: 1727 Woodman Dr, Dayton, OH 45420
Hours: Open today · 11AM–8PM
Phone: (937) 640-1114
This is my secret spot I am sharing with you. For only $4.29 you get the nostalgia of eating in the car, curbside one of the best sandwiches in town. Get a frosty mug of Rootbeer and thank me later.

 

Here’s my list to visit for this delightful sandwich in the coming weeks:
Their Tenderloin is a meal. Breaded, deep fried, topped with cheese, poppins bbq and slaw on a bun. What more do you need than a cold beer over lunch with this?
Who would you add to this list?

Quest for the Best Biscuits and Gravy

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Since this column launched back in May I am often asked where I go for certain foods. Recently I was asked about biscuits and gravy. Here in Dayton, we are fortunate to have a good list of options for this breakfast delight.
I’ll be honest, it’s hard to beat my late Grandma Suddith’s scratch biscuits and sausage gravy she made in a cast iron skillet.  My aunt Jody makes the best bacon gravy I have ever had but she is 400 miles away on a hilltop outside of Phil Campbell Alabama. So when I need good biscuits and gravy I stop into these places to get my fill.

 

1111 William C. Good Blvd.   Franklin, Ohio

Mon -Fri 5am-7pm
Saturday 5am-1:30pm   &   Sunday 6am-130pm

The lady that runs the place and makes the gravy. Her name is mom. I’ve been eating at her place since I was a little kid. Used to be over in Red Lion, which is the place where Ohio State Routes 122, 123 and 741 all cross between Hunter, Springboro, and Lebanon. It’s a diner homage to Kentucky and those who came from there and settled in Warren County. She offers a full menu all day but I’ve only ordered two things in my nearly 40 years of eating there. Biscuits and gravy and the Cheeseburger.
The biscuits are fresh and not from the freezer and the gravy has enough pepper and sausage that a side of meat is never needed. Eating there is like eating with family. They are located on St. Rt. 123 at I-75 (Franklin exit) by the truck stop a 1/4 east of the interstate. Side note: One of the few places to find Fried Bologna on the menu. Doesn’t get more southern than that.

 

4480 Powell Rd. Huber Heights (Old Troy Pike. Rd 202) 45424
Tues thru Sun 7am-3pm
Sweet Home is always a welcome spot for a home-cooked meal while surounded by good people.

A full order of biscuits and gravy is only $4.99 and it will fill you up. The breakfast menu is complete and I add home fries and a scrambled egg.

The biscuits are fresh and the gravy full of sausage. I add some hot sauce for a little kick and save 1/2 a biscuit for some jelly. It is not fancy, but you will feel at home with this breakfast spot.

 

2229 Dryden Rd    Moraine, Ohio
Mon – Fri 6am -8pm
Closed Sat & Sun
What was Gus’ Bar and Carryout is now Vinny’s. I mean. Since 2004. This spot is best known by the blue-collar crowd in Moraine. Located on the north end of Dryden Road Vinny’s is often overlooked as a lottery/beer/cigarettes/pop carry out kinda place. It is way more. It is one of the best quick breakfast joints in town and classic bar and grill at night.
Back when I worked in Jefferson Township on the west side of Dayton, I’d stop into Vinny’s for a biscuit and gravy to go with a cup of coffee. Sure you can grab a breakfast sandwich, bacon, egg, and cheese, but why skip the hearty biscuits and gravy? They do it right. Slow-cooked gravy, freshly baked biscuits and they keep a pepper shaker handy to add that extra fresh cracked spice on top. A small order is $2.75, but go ahead and get the full size (2 biscuits and gravy) for $3.75.
A bonus here: They break up the biscuit for you before topping with gravy. Makes it easier to eat on the run, or in the car like I do.

 

2033 Wayne Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
Sun – Tues: Open at 7 am. Kitchen will close at midnight
Wed – Sat : open at 7am. Kitchen close at 2am
Full-sized portion or girlie size? That’s the question. How much of Tanks Gravy do you need in one sitting? I never back down from a challenge and often split their 10 egg omelet and full-sized Biscuits and Gravy with my two sons. Three men. Two dishes. Never disappoints.
The gravy has a little kick to it, could be the inclusion of real Oakwood Possum. Doesn’t matter. You can’t get it all day, they run out and its made from scratch every day.
Full-sized order is $5.99 and girle sized is $3.99. No need for political correctness, just get some coffee, converse with the locals and enjoy Downtown Dayton’s best biscuits and gravy.

 

1150 W. Main Street, Tipp City, OH 45371
Best known in Tipp City for homemade dinners and classic American restuarant atmosphere, Tipp O’ does a great breakfast. Don’t let the decor deter you. Sit, meet your server and enjoy some of the best home cooked food north of town. A large order only sits you back $3.99 and leaves room for a couple of eggs or home fries.
Sure you can get a Filey Mignon and eggs for breakfast, but why pass up the Biscuits and gravy? Breakfast is served all day and has never left me wishing I had gotten the burger or club. (Both really good choices for lunch though).

 

I’m always looking for a new spot north of town and south of town for a great biscuits and gravy. Tell us where you go to find yours. Bonus points if they are served all day!
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Quest For The Best: Gyro

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I had my first Gyro in a mall in Paducah Kentucky. It was a lackluster affair. We made the 30-minute drive from campus with a fraternity brother who happened to be from Greece. Finding a Gyro in our little west Kentucky college town was not a possibility in 1993.
According to Wikipedia a gyro (Greek: γύρος, gyros, literally ‘turn’) is a Greek dish made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, traditionally pork, or chicken, and outside of Greece with beef, veal or lamb, and usually served wrapped in a flatbread such as pita, with tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce.
There are a few variables to the Gyro and its success. First is the meat and the seasoning. A good Gyro is a mixture of lamb or veal and beef. Seasoned with marjoram, garlic, rosemary and black pepper it is roasted on a spit continuously. Carving off the crunchy outer layers and soft moist inner for each Gyro. Secondly is the tzatziki sauce. A yogurt and cucumber based sauce that can make or break a great Gyro. Olive oil, yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. A pinch of salt and a dash of lemon and you have the perfect light topping to the Gyro.
When I worked downtown the old Pug’s Hot Dog joint on Wayne was the place for a great Gyro. They moved to Indian Ripple Road out by the Greene and live now as Chicago’s Gyros and Dogs.  Dollar for dollar this is the best in town. Fresh pitas are hardy and light, it’s a big job to hold all the gyro meat they pile on. A combo comes in at $10.00 with fries and a drink. I love how there is a great mix of the crunchy bits and soft meat in the Gyro. Their tzatziki has a tang to it and I always get an extra for my fries.
ProTip: Order an extra pita, you can split your Gyro into two smaller ones for easier handling.
When I worked out near Wright State, my go-to was Gyro Palace on Airway. It was in the shopping center on the corner of Woodman and Airway/Colonel Glenn. You can now find them at 57 South Springboro Pike near the Dayton Mall. The Greek menu is deeper here and includes stuffed grape leaves, salads, and Moussaka. I’ve never strayed from the oversized Gyro here. The meat is seasoned heavier here and the flavors are bolder in every bite. The tzatziki is creamy and carries a bit more garlic and lemon. Perfect to balance the Gyro meat. I skip the fries and get the Greek salad with olives and feta. The prices here are the lowest on my list, a Gyro platter with two sides is under $7.00. Take your time, sit down and soak it all in. Save room for a piece of baklava.
Honestly, with these two spots in your rotation, you will never have a better Gyro in town. Unless you run into the Greek Street Food Truck. These guys have taken the Gyro to a whole nother level. Find these guys parked near you soon.
The traditional Gyro is tops, but they’ve gone the extra step. Try the Greek Street Gyro, tomato jam and pickled red onion join fresh parsley giving this signature Gyro an upscale feel and flavor. Don’t let the confines of a food truck fool you, they offer your other Greek food favorites as well. Fries, Spanakopita, salads, and stuffed grape leaves are also on the menu. The Lamb gyro will set you back $8.00 but you won’t regret a bit, no one else is carving lamb streetside for your Gyro. For something different, try the shrimp gyro.
A quick Google search brings up more than a dozen joints serving a classic Gyro. I omitted Arby’s and Subway from consideration. There is no shortage of Greek spots to get a good pita besides the ones mentioned here try Gyro Delight on Wilmington, or the Greek Isle Deli in Page Manor Shopping Center.
UPDATE:  The Gyro Room closed in Jan 2018
However, the new kid on the block is The Gyro Room on Brown near UD. Tucked in across the alley from Butter Cafe the Gyro Room is a nice spot for a quick Gyro. Sides are limited to a rice dish and no fries are available. This made me a little sad. The service was fast. Real fast. Which is nice. Unless you like the art of the making of the Gyro. The slicing of the meat off the rotisserie. The Gyro room had 3-4 pounds of meat already sliced and resting in a warming tray to make assembly more efficient. This is good for time, but not so good if you are wanting those crusty and crunchy edge pieces off the spit. They are generous with portions and I opted for the extra pita and split my gyro in two. The flavors didn’t impress me like the friendliness of the staff or the quickness of the service, but it’s still a great stop if you are near campus.
I’m always looking for a new spot north of town and south of town for a great Gyro. Tell us where you go to find yours. Chicken? Beef? Lamb? What’s your Gyro choice and where do you go to get it?

Quest For The Best: Cuban Sandwich

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Suddith with children at a church in Pedro Betancourt, Matanzas Pr. Cuba

13 years ago, after a long wait in Miami, and longer wait in Havana, I stepped out of the Jose Marti airport into the sweltering heat of Cuba in the summer. A friend was waiting for me with a cold Coca-Cola and pulled me around the crowd. I was the last of the team freed from the security detail and he had found our lunch. A little food stand on the curb serving sandwiches. The only item on the menu, roasted pork, and ham with cheese. The Cuban served with plantain chips and a can of the national cola, Tu Cola, for less than $2.00 American.

The classic Cuban sandwich doesn’t come with lettuce and tomato, or mayo or a relish. It’s simple. Like the way Cubanos live. Pork is in abundance in Cuba and alongside chicken, is the main protein consumed on the island. Beef and seafood are still quartered off for tourists and elites. The french bread is picked up daily in the market with a ration card and is perfect when a day or two old. The sandwich is normally pressed to help heat the day old meats through and melt the cheese. Cheese quality on the island varies, but a version of the sharp swiss we know here is used most often. The Cuban is a staple in open air markets and is called “Sandwich mixto”. The combining of two types of meat on one sandwich. Most often roasted pork and ham, occasionally it can be found with salami.
 
My love affair with Cuba started that day, under a tree, eating that sandwich and drinking a soda. I’ve returned 3 times since then and will be back later this summer. In between trips I perfected my espresso making and have searched Dayton looking for that sandwich on crunchy french bread, the right mix of meat, cheese, pickle, and mustard. In my quest for the best, I found these.

 

El Meson in West Carrolton.
It should come as no surprise that El Meson, specializing in Spanish, Caribbean and South American fare should have the area’s best Cuban sandwich. The Pork is seasoned perfectly with spices I can only describe as uniquely Cuban. Oregano, cumin, parsley, black pepper, all together smells of a Cuban country kitchen. They layer the pork alongside pickle, mustard, and swiss. Finished in a press, the roll comes back with a crunchy exterior ready to handle the juicy pork. Order it with a side of black beans. Sit on the patio, enjoy the sunshine, imagine you are in a Havana cafe all for under $10.00.

 

Don’t send angry letters. I get it. It’s not local. It’s not genuine. But trust me here. Buried deep in the voluminous menu there’s a hidden gem or two. My favorite is the Cuban sandwich. The Factory has done their research and their Cuban is on point. French roll pressed flat, pickle and mustard only. Nothing special. They make it the classic way, with roasted pork and a portion of thinly sliced ham under the swiss. It tastes just like the food cart outside Jose Marti. Skip the sides, they pale in comparison.
 
For the most authentic experience, skip the waiters, forks and nice table service. A roaming food truck is the best way to go. For a Cuban sandwich in Dayton, find McNasty’s. It has all you need. Perfectly pork, sweet ham, swiss cheese melted, that pickle and mustard in between a crusty pressed french roll.  It is no frills, just the way you might get it in Havana Viejo.
Annie’s at Second Street Market
The Second Street Market always impresses me. The Cuban at Annie’s is no exception. Pork, ham, swiss, mustard and pickle, pressed and wrapped to go just like on the Island. Annie’s pork is a bit more shredded than I normally like. This changed things for me, but the flavor is still there. Equal pickle, mustard, and pork is balanced by the swiss. Every bite was a memory.

 

Where do you find a great Cuban sandwich? Let us know is the comments or on our Facebook page at Facebook.com/mostmetro
Instagram photos used with permission by @mle_m

The Quest For Dayton’s Best Taco!

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tour_de_taco_final_for_stephanie_2_There is only one way to determine Dayton’s Best Taco. Gather 10 or 12 of your closest friends and plan an epic Taco Tour. Stop at the 4 hottest taco spots in Dayton in one afternoon, try everything and take great notes.

chiapas-pork-taco-al-pastor

Chiapas Pork taco al pastor

DaytonMostMetro.com joined up with Bryan’s Burger club and set out to find the best taco. The afternoon started at one of Dayton’s newest Taquerias, Chiapas Mexican. Located on St. Rt. 48 in Centerville, near Bill’s Donuts we easily found space for 10 on the patio.

We surprised them with 10 people so service was a little slow but the tacos were great. Soft and warm corn tortillas were filled and full of flavor. Chicken and beef were the favorites. Chiapas has a very nice Chorizo taco that is almost sweet behind the spice of the Mexican sausage. Beef tongue is a classic choice and was enjoyed by two members of the Taco Crawl team. These tacos are served with cilantro and onion. A salsa verde and red hot sauce are on the table as well. I like mine with a little of the house salsa and nothing more. Chiapas tacos are the real deal at were at the top of the price range at $2.75 each. If you are south of town, this is your stop.

chicken-and-shrimp-tacos-at-taquiera-mezteca

Chicken & Shrimp at Taquiera Mezteca

Our tour took us into the heart of downtown to the famed Taqueria Mixteca. Located on East 3rd St, Mixteca is a downtown staple. Located just east of Keowee a few blocks they serve a top-notch taco. I was impressed with the chicken taco. Great spice and cooked well. Other favorites of the group were the fish taco, Chorizo with some spice, and the ground beef. Again, cilantro and onions are standard. Tacos are $2.35 each, fish, tongue, and shrimp are in the $3.00 range.

chicken-and-chorizo-at-garcia-mobil-truck

Chicken & Chorizo at Garcia Mobil Truck

We were in an out of Taqueria Mixteca in record time to catch the Taqueria Garcia Mobil food truck located a block away before it closed at 3pm. $2.00 tacos out of a food truck and this place was the crowd favorite. They serve a Chorizo/Chicken taco that has the best of both worlds in one fold. Spicy Chorizo and savory slow cooked chicken under some cilantro and onion with a squeeze of lime. Add their Salsa Verde and grab two napkins. We got there late so they were out of Tripe, the group tried the other offerings, the steak (Asada) and pork (Al Pastor). For the price and service, you can’t beat this food truck.

taco-loco-chicken-loco-taco-and-pork-taco

Taco Loco chicken loco and pork taco

Tired with three stops under our belt, or over it, we made our way to Taco Loco located on Burkhardt near Spinning Road. By far the friendliest service by the nicest staff. 10 of us stopped in on what had become a cold rainy afternoon. The place was full with families enjoying full plates of Mexican fare. The quickly rearranged tables and set about getting us more tacos. Tripe is available on weekends and their steak and chorizo tacos were enjoyed. None of us has the nerve to try the gizard taco.  The chicken was nothing to write home about and was the only low point of the day. The atmosphere and service made up for it. Prices as low as $1.90 for beef, chicken, pork, and chorizo, tongue and tripe tacos were in the $3.00 range. Great service and a great menu make this a place to return to.

Did we find the best? Positively. Our group agreed they loved each place and enjoyed tacos at every stop. The food truck won our hearts and stomachs. The staff at Taco Loco won us over with hospitality and patio dining at Taqueria Mixteca and Chiapas is a great way to spend an afternoon with friends. Go try them yourself and tell us what you think.tourdetaco

Here were some additional comments from our Facebook invite page:

-Garcia Mobil was the best taco of the day.
-Chicken and Chorizo combo taco at the truck is a real winner.
-Best onions at the truck.
-Chiapas had the best tortillas.
-The ladies at Taco Loco were the best!
-Al Pastor and Steak tacos at Chiapas were also quite tasty.