Dayton937

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

Archives for June 2023

There’s a new treasure at Treasure Island

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There’s a new treasure at Treasure Island

It’s one thing to get a new management group, another to get a new manager and quite another to get a new chef! 

What does all of this mean? There’s a very bright future for this mainstay on the Dayton Food scene. Dana and Katherine Downs (of Roost Modern Italian fame) have taken over leadership of this unassuming supper club. Dana has strong roots in the Dayton food scene and has been a part of some of Daytons greats. 

They have added to the ranks Cindy Murray who has most recently served as General Manager of the Florentine and previously with The Hickory Bar-B-Q on Brown Street. Murray will serve as General Manager. 

As if that’s not enough to ensure great future success for Treasure Island, there’s more! Taking over as Executive Chef is Chef Nate Young who has been a mainstay at The Oakwood Club for years. 

Katherine stated that lunch and dinner will remain as currently scheduled, and that they hope Dayton will enjoy the changes that are coming to this part of their portfolio of restaurants. 

Nobody does it like Chef Dana – so it will be fun to watch the enhancements to this gem of our dining  community. 

Lunch and dinner services will remain as currently scheduled,” said Chef Dana, “however being Chef managed, slight menu modifications will be developed by myself and our staff to ensure the efficiency and success of the restaurant.

“We are very excited about this new chapter in our portfolio of restaurants” said Katherine, “and are confident that the loyal diners of TI will continue to support and enjoy this change of management.

4250 Chief Woods Lane
Moraine, OH 45439
937-299-6161
Hours:
Mon – Thurs 11am – 9pm
Fri & Sat 11am – 10pm

Naked Karate Girls in Springboro

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We’re bringing the heat with our Concert Series at North Park, 195 Tamarack Trail. Featuring a Classical Series on Sunday evenings, Tuesday shows highlight oldies and goodies and our powerhouse Friday lineup of classics and tribute bands,

Sing along to your favorite tunes as the City of Springboro and Park Board present an entertaining schedule of FREE concerts.

Sunday and Tuesday concerts start at 7 p.m.

Friday concerts and the Saturday, July 1 concert start at 7:30 p.m.

Bring your own seating

Concessions and food trucks available

Friday shows and July 1 show also include beer sales

24 4th of July Celebrations Around Town

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Also known as Independence Day, the 4th of July commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which solidified the American colonies’ resolution to fight for their independence from Britain.
In Fourth of July celebrations, fireworks signify national pride and patriotism. They had been used in China since at least the 12th century, and in the 15th century they became popular with European monarchs as a way to celebrate national triumphs, the restoration of peace, and the monarchs’ own birthdays. Fireworks have been part of Independence Day in the United States since its first celebration, in 1777.
Here’s where to

Star Spangled Heights

Thomas Cloud Park 4707 Brandt Pike, Dayton, OH
  • 10:00 AM – City of Huber Heights Parade – Chambersburg Road/Brandt Pike to Nebraska Avenue/Brandt Pike
  • 11:00 AM – Historical Society Car Show
  • 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM – Festival at Thomas Cloud Park With Food Trucks, Kids’ Activities, Beer Garden, and More!
Band Performance Schedule:
  • 2:00-4:00p Ludlow Creek
  • 4:30-8:00p Parrots of the Caribbean
  • 8:00-10:00p Remix – Family Game Night
Dark – City of Huber Heights Fireworks Display

Free

Waynesville Independence Day Parade & Fireworks

Bicentennial Park 837 Dayton Road, Waynesville
 
Waynesville will be hosting its annual parade at 12 PM on Saturday, July 1st 2023. You’ll enjoy the ‘small town USA’ approach to holding a parade. There will be fire trucks and farm tractors and everything in between!
Watch the parade and then shop and dine till 5pm. Also, head up the hill to the Bicentennial Park, beside the High School, for a fun evening with a band and fireworks and some yummy food. Bring your lawn chair and spend the evening!
Fireworks will go off at 10 pm
Free
A community celebration featuring live music, from
3 -10pm lots of food trucks and of course fireworks to end the evening!

𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥

Community Park 691 E Dayton Yellow Springs Rd, Fairborn, OH
 
The July 3rd events might not be Downtown, but Don’t Stop Believin’, because we have moved the festivities to Community Park and the Journey has just begun!
Get ready to Escape reality with Open Arms as you walk around the park visiting the vendors, grab something to eat Any Way You Want It from the food trucks, then stay to hear the Crown Watts Duo, Billy Rock Band, and The Journey Tribute: E5C4P3 as they create a Chain Reaction of sound so amazing you won’t want the party to be over!
This July 3rd will have you asking people – Where Were You?
𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:
2:00 pm-2:15 pm—Opening Ceremonies (featuring 21-gun salute by American Legion Post 526, National Anthem performed by former Fairborn High School graduate and Cedarville University student Serena Ford, and welcome remarks)
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm—Crown Watts Duo
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm—Billy Rock Band
5:15 pm-6:00 pm—Little Miss/Little Mister registration at Shelter #1
6:15 pm – 6:45 pm—Little Miss/Little Mister contest at Shelter #1
6:45 pm – 9:45 pm—The Journey Tribute
🚚 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐬:
🇺🇸 Mom Andrasik’s,  Wholly Smokes BBQ, Sugar Shack Ice Cream & Treats, Home Cooked Vibes, The Lumpia Queen. Claybourne Grille. Freda’s Food Truck. The Wild Banana. What the Taco. Billie Gold Bubble Tea. Cupzilla. Wheel Fresh Pizza. Wrappin’ & Rollin’ Café

Lebanon Independence Day Celebration

Colonial Park West 720 North Broadway, Lebanon, OH

Celebrate our nation’s independence at the Independence Day Celebration! This free family-friendly event starts at 6 pm at Colonial Park West with kids activities, live music starting at 7 pm, fireworks, by Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks, start at 10 pm.

Parking is available at the Warren County Fairgrounds. Handicap accessible parking is available at Colonial Park West.

Independence Day Festival

Smith Park 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown
Schedule of Events

  • 6-7pm The Gillespie Express
  • 7.30-8pm National Anthem – Flag Jump by Team Fastrax, Mayor Nicole Condrey
  • 8-9.30pm Music by Scotty Bratcher
  • 9.45pm Yokum Fireworks – Pyro Jump by Team Fastrax

Vandalia Star-Spangled Celebration

Vandalia Rec Center 1111 Stonequarry Rd, Vandalia, OH

The Vandalia Star-Spangled Celebration Monday, July 3, at the Vandalia Sports Complex 7-11pm. Food, music and fun with a fireworks…

Come celebrate our country’s independence on Monday, July 3 at the Vandalia Sports Complex.  In addition to having an assortment of food trucks, the Blue Leaf’s will provide entertainment with a variety of classic rock music.  They will take the stage at 7pm and play until the fireworks at 10pm.  Parking fills up quickly so come early and enjoy and evening with all your neighbors!

Centerville Americana Fireworks

Centerville High School
500 E. Franklin St., Centerville

Centerville-Washington Township Americana Festival Fireworks July 3 at Centerville High School. Gates open – 6 PM; entertainment begins 8:30; fireworks at 10.

Come Celebrate Centerville’s annual Americana Festival that begins with a bang on July 3rd, the night BEFORE the Festival, at the Centerville High School Stadium, 500 E. Franklin Street.

Gates open at 6 p.m. The Miami Valley Hospital South Fireworks show lights up the sky at 10 p.m. and is synchronized to music provided by Jack FM 92.9.

Don’t miss the area’s biggest and best red, white and boom – Americana Festival Fireworks display – Monday, July 3rd!

Lights in Flight Fireworks

Kettering Field
444 N Bend Blvd, Dayton

Lights in Flight, the Dayton region’s most spectacular fireworks display, returns to Dayton on Monday, July 3.

Heads up! 📣 The city of Dayton has switched things up this year: While there won’t be a festival at RiverScape MetroPark, folks can still enjoy a fireworks display at **Kettering Field (444 N. Bend Blvd).**
Because this is the official viewing area, people may not be able to view the display from RiverScape MetroPark and adjacent areas downtown and are highly encouraged to go to Kettering Field to watch the show.
The fireworks are planned to start at 10 p.m. and admission is free. Learn more about street closures, Island MetroPark’s hours of operation on July 3 and more

Buck Creek Boom- Clark County

Ferncliff at the Banks of Buck Creek 1
901 Buck Creek Lane, Springfield

The 28th annual community fireworks show will celebrate America’s Independence with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are free to everyone and made possible by the generous support of area businesses and community members. It will be possible to view the show from many locations around the community. Fireworks begin at dark, approximately 10:00 pm. The fireworks displays should be viewable in the blue areas shown on the map. Go to a high point with a clear view of the sky facing toward the red dot indicated on the map. Please don’t park in the Springfield Regional Medical Center Parking lot.

Troy 4th of July Parade, Concert & Fireworks

Treasure Island Park
409 N. Elm St, Troy, OH
  • 9:00 a.m.: Downtown 4th of July Parade, hosted by the Independence Day Parade Committee
  • 6:30 p.m.: Food trucks will begin selling food at Treasure Island Park
  • 7:30 p.m.: Concert at Treasure Island amphitheater
  • 10 p.m.: Annual fireworks display

We’re welcoming the Wet Bandits, a 90s party cover band, as part of the City’s July 4th event, presented by the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce, the Troy Rotary Club, and the City of Troy. Food trucks will begin selling food at Treasure Island Park starting at 6:30 p.m., and the annual fireworks display is slated for 10 p.m.

The Market Street Bridge, both sides and the top of the levee, and the seating area at the North Market Street ballfield are all excellent locations to see the fireworks.

Wettest Parade in Ohio

downtown  Franklin

The Wettest 4th of July Parade in Ohio is in Franklin!

Spectators, Please Note!  Each and every street intersection is considered a WET ZONE and you WILL GET DRENCHED! The parade begins at the Lion’s Bridge and heads South along South Main Street. Once the parade reaches 6th Street it will then head East along 6th Street ending at Franklin Community Park. The route is approximately 1 mile long.

The July 4th parade at 10am from Central Avenue to Main Street featuring many civic groups and community floats. This is a fun event for the entire family.

After the parade, we move the party to Community Park!

After the parade, the party continues at 4pm back at Community park with food trucks, vendors, concerts, and fireworks presented by Rozzi.  Fireworks display at approximately 10pm.

We look forward to seeing you this July as we celebrate!

Springboro July 4th – Boro Boom!

SPRINGBORO HIGH SCHOOL 1675 S Main Street, Springboro, OH

Boro Boom! Springboro July 4th Fireworks show at Springboro High School Celebrate Independence Day with a night under the stars!

The City is celebrating in the Springboro High School parking lot with bounce houses and food trucks starting at 6 p.m., live music from The Bucket List Players, at 7 p.m. and the fireworks show will light up the sky at 10 p.m.

Free

Kettering – Go 4th!

Delco Park 1700 Delco Park Drive, Kettering, OH

Celebrate Independence Day with us! The City of Kettering presents entertainment by the incredible Zack Attack band, a large variety…

Free

Beavercreek 4th of July Parade and Fireworks

Rotary Park 2260 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek, OH

The City of Beavercreek will be celebrating Independence Day in 2023 at Rotary Park. The celebration will take place Tuesday, July 4, and will include a parade, live entertainment, food trucks, and a spectacular firework show.

All the fun will kick off with a parade at 6 p.m. The parade route will begin along Meadowbridge Drive, continue east on Dayton-Xenia Road, and will end at Beavercreek High School.

After cheering on the parade, the excitement will continue at Rotary Park, located at 2260 Dayton Xenia Road, with more activities, including food trucks, live entertainment, and of course, a firework show, scheduled to start at 10 p.m.

Star Spangled Boom

Wax Park 3800 Main Street, Moraine, OH

Spend your evening at Wax Park for our Star Spangled Boom event and take part in a variety of special activities, starting at 6pm!

  • 6:00 p.m. Food Trucks, kids zone, inflatables, games
  • 7:00 p.m. Stranger – https://stranger80s.com/
  • 10:00 p.m. Fireworks (best spot to view is Wax Park)

Englewood July 4th Celebration

Centennial Park 205 Union Rd, Englewood, OH

4th of July / Fireworks 2022 Celebration Englewood’s annual fireworks celebration at Centennial Park. The Civic Band will perform beginning at 7:00 pm.  Fireworks begin at approximately 10:00 pm.

Englewood’s annual fireworks celebration is held on July 4th beginning at 10 p.m. at Centennial Park.

  • Filling the air with patriotic tunes, the Englewood Civic Band kicks things off at 7:00 p.m.
  • Children will be aglow with excitement as the Englewood Fire Association will sell glow rings.
  • Join us as we celebrate Independence!
  • Rain date: July 5
Faurot Park
S Cole St at Lakewood Ave, Lima, 

The Star Spangled Spectacular organizing committee is pleased to announce that fireworks will be back at Faurot Park in Lima this year. Star Spangled Spectacular is hosting the Freedom 5K run/walk and a fireworks show at Faurot Park on July 4, 2023. The Freedom 5K will start at 9 am and fireworks will go off at 10 pm.

We invite the public to join us for a wonderful, festive display at the park. There will be shuttles available that will transport individuals in and out of the park to enjoy live entertainment and the fireworks display. Coordinated music from the Lima Area Concert Band before and during the show will be available at the Pavilion Stage at the park.

Kings Island’s annual Fourth of July celebration is an unforgettable experience that brings friends and families together for a day filled with fun, entertainment and one of the most largest and most immersive Independence Day fireworks displays in the Greater Cincinnati area. This colorful pageant in the sky set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower and Orion giga coaster will certainly cap off a fun and memorable day at the park.

Let Kings Island’s executive chef Joseph Perez and the culinary team do the cooking for you at Coney Bar-B-Que. This fast-casual dining location in the Coney Mall sector of the park offers various barbecue favorites along with a selection of fresh side dishes.

On July 4, the park will remain open after the show until midnight, giving guests two additional hours to enjoy their favorite attractions including The Beast, Diamondback and Mystic Timbers roller coasters, family and kids’ rides.

Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival

Shawnee Park
591 South Park Drive, Xenia,

The City of Xenia is pleased to once again host Xenia Rotary Club’s annual “Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival” at the City’s iconic Shawnee Park on Friday, July 7, 2023. The fireworks festival will be held alongside the City’s Red, White & Blue Block Party in downtown Xenia, which will run from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m..

In past years, the block party has featured live music, sand sculptures, food trucks, a cornhole tournament, a toy show, a cruise-in, and children’s activities including face painting, climbing wall and other games for children of all ages. Check back for updates on this year’s activities.

The fireworks, presented by the Xenia Rotary Club, will begin at 10 p.m. and will showcase nearly 30 minutes of uninterrupted pyrotechnics. Ahead of the fireworks display, visitors to the festival at Shawnee Park will have a variety of activities available to them including more than a dozen food trucks, bouncy houses, and live music.

Plan A Blueberry Picking Excursion

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Once in a Blue Moon Farms in Waynesville has announced they will be open for Blueberry picking this weekend. As long as the weather cooperates hours will be:
Saturday July 1st from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Sunday July 2nd from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Monday July 3rd Closed
Tuesday July 4th Closed
🫐Farm Rules🫐
In anticipation of opening day they’ve  post info about thier farm to help you when you visit.
1. The farm is our home so please respect our privacy and Do Not arrive before we open. DO NOT block the driveway as our employees need to get in. There is a church down the road where you can park if you arrive early. We are on a busy road and you cannot block traffic. When you arrive there will be someone to show you where to park.
2. We accept Cash or Check only, no cards. There is not an ATM on site. Checks must have your correct address and phone number on them. New customers must show a drivers license. There is a minimum $25 up to the amount of the check written fee on returned checks.
3. Price per pound for u-pick is $4.30. Pre-picked pints are $6, quarts $12 and are in limited quantity at the booth during open hours.
4. We supply the buckets lined with a bag for picking. Full buckets hold approximately 8 pounds. We have a limited quantity of children’s buckets or they can bring their own. Their berries will go into the adult bucket to be weighed together. We don’t weigh children’s buckets. You take the berries home in the bag.
5. Please DO NOT eat berries in the field. We do spray fungicides (to control fruit rot) and insecticides (to control Japanese beetles and fruit flies) when necessary and the berries should be washed before eating. We supply instructions.
6. Our picking hours are subject to change depending on the weather (we close for rain) and field conditions (picked out). Please check before coming for any cancellations.
7. A port-a-john is a available for use. We also have hand wipes and hand sanitizer.
8. Children are always welcome, but they must remain with parents at all times. For their safety and the safety of other customers, no running around the field or between bushes. We also ask that you not eat food or leave your trash in the field, this attracts animals. Trash cans are available.
9. Pets are Not allowed in the field by law. Please leave your furry friends at home.
10. Closed toe shoes are highly recommended.
11. We do not keep a lost and found. Anything left behind will be thrown away.
12. The phone (937-586-8749) is for us to provide a message with picking info. We do not answer it or monitor it for messages.

Once in a Blue Moon Farm

3984 Social Row
Waynesville OH 45068


Take Social Row Rd east past Clyo Rd & past Wilmington-Dayton.

The Foundry at the AC Hotel Opens Today

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The city of Dayton has a rich history of generations of laborers in foundries, the factories which produce metal castings. The strength, grit, and fire of these workers were the inspiration for The Foundry at the AC Hotel, featuring one of the best liquor programs in the state along with internationally inspired cuisine and hearty American favorites.Made for Dayton locals, or those local for the day, we invite you to come as you are: in your cocktail best, or jeans and a t-shirt. Enjoy our rooftop patio  and the sun setting on our sixth-floor rooftop.  The view of the Dragons games will be awesome from here.Chef David Belknap, a Columbus native, who started in the business washing dishes, attended the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, worked under Chef Thomas Keller and his three star Michelin-starred PerSe in New York City and and also appearing on an episode of Chopped.  At The Foundry he “aims to test the limits of Dayton’s dining scene by expanding palettes and introducing new favorite flavors.”

SHARABLES

UGLY TOAST – herb-parmesan flatbread, assorted dips $13 V
CHARCUTERIE – assorted cured meats & cheeses, marmalade, crostini $19
AVOCADO DEVILED EGGS – pico de gallo, chile-lime dust $8 dairy free, GF
CORNMEAL CRISPY CALAMARI – 1lb Rhode Island calamari, cherry peppers, basil, fire roasted jalapeño aioli $27

STARTERS

INGOT CRAB CAKES- blue crab, sweet corn, pickled fresno, saffron aioli $18
SMOKED BURRATA TOAST- heirloom tomato, grilled lettuce, basil oil $14 V
CHARRED MEATBALLS – spicy pork & beef meatballs, Sunday gravy, pecorino, crostini $15 GF
GARLIC PRAWNS. – pickled shishitos, sourdough, smoked paprika $18 GF

PIZZA

CLASSIC PEPPERONI – house gravy, smoked provolone $17
NUTTY MUSHROOM- cashew alfredo sauce, mushrooms, mozzarella, truffle $16 V
LOADED POTATO roasted garlic, Yukon, rosemary, bacon, raclette cheese, sour cream $15
CAPRICIOUS PIE – prosciutto, black olives, artichokes, mushrooms, spicy pickled onion, pecorino $16
MARGHERITA- heirloom cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, oregano $14
CARNIVOROUS – pepperoni, roasted peppers, hot Italian sausage, bacon $18

NOT PIZZA

FOUNDRY REUBEN – house smoked pastrami, scarlet sauerkraut, Swiss, caraway-mustard aioli, rye toast $17
CHICKEN CHEESESTEAK- caramelized onion, mushroom, pickled peppers, provolone, Foundry roll $15
FORGED BURGER- 8oz of smashed wagyu beef, raclette cheese, bourbon-bacon jam, tomato, rocket greens, sriracha aioli, Foundry roll $20
SMOKED DUCK SALAD- smoked & grilled duck breast, house greens, walnuts, raspberries, duck cracklings $24 DF GF
BRUSSELS CAESAR SALAD- brussels sprouts two ways, Caesar dressing, anchovies, pecorino $15 GF

 

THE HEARTH

PORCINI MUSHROOM SALMON-Faroe Island salmon, crispy polenta, broccolini, port wine butter $34 DF, GF
STEAK POUTINE –  7oz filet mignon, raclette cheese stuffed potato, pink peppercorn au poivre sauce $48 GF
CRISPY PORK BELLY- glazed house-smoked pork belly, red beans & rice, sweet plantain, avocado $32 DF, GF
24-HOUR CHICKEN – brined & pan roasted chicken breast, cauliflower, carrots, sorghum, chicken jus $28
PEI MUSSELS- ire-roasted fennel, sweet corn, local beer, butter, crispy shallots $26

CAN’T PASS THIS UP

STICKY TOFFEE CAKE POPS FOR THE TABLE – melted ice cream 4 per Person
DARK CHOCOLATE TERRINE – strawberries, Graham cracker, coconut cream $8 V
LEFTOVER DOUGH NUGGETS- spiced sugar, caramel $8
IRISH COFFEE TIRAMISU-lady fingers, whiskey, Baily’s, mascarpone, cocoa $9
APPLE TART TATIN FOR TWO- caramelized apple, puff pastry, vanilla bean ice cream$12
BANANAS FOSTER CRÈME BRULÉE- caramelized sugar, cinna-rum banana chips $8

The Foundry

124 Madison St,
Dayton, OH 45402
937-965-7520
Mon – Thurs 4-11pm
(Kitchen – 10:00 PM)
Fri & Sat
4- midnight
(Kitchen – 10:00 PM)Select Sundays for Dayton Dragons games 

 

 

AlphaTrips: CHICago is CHIC again!

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   It’s time to travel again….and even though I use AlphaTrips to highlight cities and towns close to our beloved Dayton, it’s time to TRAVEL beyond. 4 and a half hours from Dayton’s city center is one of America’s great big cities…CHICAGO! Flanked by the beauty of Lake Michigan, highlighted by the amazing skyscrapers, filled with world-class hotels and dotted with more parks than you can shake a stick at…Chicago is vibrant again. Gone are the annoying masks, plastic dividers, and spacing that kept us all at bay. Back is an oasis for shoppers, a playground for water lovers, and a fulfillment for music and art aficianados.

“The trick is to take what the media says with a grain of salt.” Says Mischa K, a local food vendor and lifelong dweller. “We are facing what all big cities are facing. This need to make everyone feel that Netflix is better than the Lincoln Park Zoo. I mean, come on!” Mischa is not alone. While visiting the Windy City, I chatted it up with others…sentiments the same! “Magnificent Mile has seen some closures, but all-in-all, the street is packed with visitors, and you can’t find a restaurant with availability.” Says Fred H. “I dunno, I keep hearing the same stories about Miami, NYC and LA….so we are in good company.” laughs Dan D. “You adjust. You find a way to make the new way of doing things a better way of doing things. We are still Midwest…people are still as friendly as it gets here!”

For me and the gang I traveled with, we found a ton to do! Plopping ourselves at the Viceroy on State Street…we were near the beating heart of the town. A short walk to Michigan Ave. and you could feel it…life is BACK! On the streets families with popcorn, lovers holding hands and obnoxious drivers laying on their horns in hopes they get much needed attention! Shopping felt good…no clicking Amazon for a new shirt, but rather, trying it on…and having the clerk find a better size…HEAVEN! (By the way, Ralph Lauren’s POLO on Michigan is a must now….WOW…packed and pretty!!) Starbucks three level signature store is bit much, but its worth a drop in. To be real, I was more interested in finding the old hotels with those dimly lit bars, and amazing Old-Fashioneds…and they didn’t disappoint! (Champagne stops are a good idea as well.)

The Aquarium, the zoo, the beach, the pier…all in full-swing and ready to take on your family with new sites to see as well. And, honestly, is there any city near us with a more diverse collection of architecture!! STUNNING STUFF!  One place I always enjoy is Andersonville. Filled with shops from the sublime to the silly, the area boasts a lot of great variety. Take a minute to grab a drink at Lady Gregory’s, Farragut’s or Hopleaf Brewery! Feeling adventurous? Sneak into Simon’s (Oldie but goodie)!

Dining is also back in Chicago. We ate dinner at Somerset, a patio restaurant, with great people-watching in the Gold Coast. After dinner, take the elevator to the 18th floor to Devereaux…this pool-side party place is inviting and sophisticated. Of course, I could list dozens of places to find food, and everyone would have an opinion how right or wrong I was…with that, I will say, there is something for everyone in Chi-Town! (We loved grabbing a coffee at Whispers and sitting in the triangular garden among the college kids and locals.)

It’s time peeps! Grab your pet (they were everywhere)…pack your car (or just buy everything there)…and put on your walking shoes (we averaged 15,000 steps a day)….and head NorthWest(ish) to one of America’s Best….the city of BIG SHOULDERS….CHICAGO!

 

 

 

 

 

Epic Tacos Now Available in Centerville

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After much anticipation, the new Centerville Agave and Rye opens the doors to their 16th restaurant  today.   As general manager Charity Walls says, “We make epic tacos here at Agave and Rye, all of our food is made 100% from scratch, fresh daily. We also fresh squeeze our margaritas every day so they are the perfect taste. We provide an escape-ism for your every day life, you can come in here and forget what your worries are for the day, enjoy some tacos and some epic margaritas.”

The decor is best described as  “urban grunge” and the background music wafting through the place is an eclectic mix of music that spans everything from 80’s pop  to current hits of today.

Beyond the eye-catching space and EPIC experience, the menu delivers with an eclectic array of choices. You can start your meal by selecting  from six dips to go with your chips, or from the munchies section of the menu. I highly recommend the Elote which is Cotija Cheese, Serrano Aioli, Tajin, Cilantro and Lime.

The Sweet Corn Fritters are another great starter.

When it comes to tacos, they are indeed epic and each one is double shelled with a crunchy corn shell surrounded by a soft flour tortilla. With about 15 options, I chose (pictured from left to right below) The Plain Jane -Seasoned Ground Beef, Shredded Lettuce, Aged White Cheddar, Diced Tomato, Sour Cream,  The Beekeeper  – Herbed Chicken, Matchstick Green Apple Slaw, Strawberry Jalapeño Tequila Salsa and The Alderman – Carne Asada Steak, Street Corn Salad, Cotija Cheese, Spicy Chile de Arbol Salsa. Gotta tell you- I couldn’t finish the three of these- they are stuffed so full.

Not a taco fan?  The menu does offer a burger, chopped salad, taquitos and a couple of burrito options. There are also half a dozen grilled taco options.

But I did manage to save a little room for dessert and I gotta tell you The Salty Pimp Epic Tacos – Dulce de Leche, Salty Caramel Ice Cream Draped with Spicy Chocolate, Cinnamon & Sugar Shell, Party Pearls  were mind blowing! A serving includes two, so you can share.

Looking for a good cocktail to compliment your tacos- I suggest the Strawberry Bombshell -Bacardi Rum, Vodka, Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade, Strawberry Purée, Cream of Coconut, or as the staff refers to it Danger Juice. It goes down so easily, without a boozy taste.

Be prepared to wait, as Agave & Rye does not take reservations, and we know that the crowds are coming. The restaurant seats about 200 inside and another 80 or so on the patio.

 

Agave and Rye
11 North Main Street
Centerville, OH 45458

Mon – Thurs: 11am-11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am-12am
Sun 11am-10pm

 

Treat Yourself to Chauffeured Fine Dining in Versailles

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I was lucky enough to be a part of the inaugural trip of the  Hotel Versailles AmuseBUS roundtrip experience for a dinner reservation at Silas Creative Kitchen + Cocktails. Every Thursday through August 31, you can ride the  luxury Mercedes-Benz Executive Shuttle, enjoy pre-dinner welcome drinks of their housemade wine and spirits, while they whisk you away to the rural setting of this boutique hotel and restaurant. 

As many of you may remember the 150 year old hotel was destroyed by a fire in 2019, but they have rebuilt and expanded the property that is sophisticated and surprising, friendly and fancy, modern and memorable. As you enter the building you are greeted in a small lobby and then proceed to the bar\dining room that runs the entire length of the property.  It’s bright and airy with an array of booth and table seating. The dining room seats 68, with a a private dining room for 12 and and another 50 or so patio tables are available for al fresco dining.

Chef Aaron Allen

As we sat down we were greeted by Executive Chef Aaron Allen, who trained under Chef Anne Kearney for five years at Dayton’s Rue Dumaine.  You could hear the passion in his voice as he described how he crafts the menu using  seasonally available ingredients that are sourced directly from the property’s 85 acre Sycamore Bridge Farm, with meats supplied through local partnerships with Winner’s Quality Meats and King’s Poultry Farm.  In the menu you’ll even find a list of all the local purveyors used by the restaurant.
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I shared a meal with 4 others and we decided to dine family style, ordering many dishes but sharing them all so we could taste as many items as possible. We started out with a homemade bread plate which came with an assortment of focaccia, corn bread and milk bread served with butter  and lava salt, all made in house by their pastry chef.

We also enjoyed a charcuterie tower which included an  assortment of house-cured meats, pickles, preserves, bread, and Ohio artisan cheeses. We all agreed that the charred carrot salad with pickled beets, salted pistachios, arugula chevre and coffee crumbs was a table favorite.

Other hits of the night included the roasted pork belly bao buns, the chicken schnitzel, the waygu short ribs, the pan seared scallops and a spice rubbed NY strip steak.

My personal highlight of the meal  was the herb crusted elk loin with English pea butter, wild mushrooms, white asparagus, whipped chevre, citrus, cherry jus. It truly melted in my mouth, and was not gamey at all like I thought elk might be.  Chef explained he sous vide’s it until tender and finishes it on the grill for just a few minutes to create that texture.

And no meal is complete without desserts, and we enjoyed tiramisu, a lemon posset with a blueberry and rhubarb granita and lemon shortbread, their version of an ice cream sandwich and a frozen peanut butter trifle, pictured below.

After dinner we headed to the bar where the signature cocktails was filled with options, many of which were derived from the history of Versailles and  highlighted the local distilleries. I chose to end my night with a  bourbon experience.


 

After a fantastic evening of great food, drink and hospitality I took advantage of the Ohio Staycation package to reserve an overnight stay and return chauffeur service the next morning. Reservations for the experience can be made by calling the hotel concierge at 937.526.3020.

For those wondering, the average check for dining at dinner runs about $75.

Salvadore Ross/Nightbeast at Levitt Pavilion

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Salvadore Ross:

Salvadore Ross is a fuzz-inspired psychedelic rock and roll band from Dayton, OH, featuring equal parts space rock, heavy greasy riffs, and 1960s style songwriting.

Nightbeast:

Comprised of a tight knit group of six fun-loving best friends, Nightbeast, out of Dayton, Ohio, is one-part nerdcore, one-part pop-punk, and 100% the hottest party band in the Mid-West. Best of all—the hangover is completely optional.

Phish Announces 2 Nights in Dayton!

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Phish has just released their fall tour schedule, which includes stops in Chicago, Nashville and two nights at Dayton’s Nutter Center. October 10 and 11, Phish returns to  the campus of Wright State University.

The group first played what was then known as the Ervin J. Nutter Center on November 30, 1995. Another stellar Phish performance at the venue came during the legendary Fall Tour 1997 on December 7, 1997. Twenty years later the band was back at the Nutter Center on July 18, 1997.  Phish fans refer to that show as what is still one of the best sets of their career, Phish’s Dayton show on this day in 1997 saw the band ride a massive swell of momentum to one of the most complete, fluid, well-crafted shows they’ve ever played.

 

Registration for a ticket lottery is open now at tickets.phish.com. The request window closes on Monday, July 10 at 12 p.m. ET. Tickets then go on sale to the general public on Saturday, July 15 at 10 a.m. ET. You can purchase Phish fall tour tickets via Ticketmaster.com.

The Brightside is planning an afterparty, stay tuned for details!

Spotlight on the Dayton Theatre’s 2023-2024 Seasons- Part 1

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With all of the local theaters in town, we thought we would spotlight their upcoming seasons. This will give you plenty of time to fill your calendars and purchase season tickets. This week we are throwing the spotlight on Beavercreek Community Theatre and TheatreLab Dayton. 

We begin with Beavercreek Community Theatre located at The Lofino Senior Adult Enrichment and Cultural Arts Center 3868 Dayton-Xenia Road, Beavercreek, OH 45432.

For the 2023-2024 Season BCT has acquired two musicals and three plays. They will open with Bright Star, which was inspired by a true story, and features a score by Steve Martin (Yes, THAT Steve Martin, and Edie Brickell). It is a story of love and redemption. This production will be directed by Jeff Sams. Bright Star September 1-10, 2023.

The second show will be The Ginger-Bread Lady, by Neil Simon. This dramatic comedy garnered a Tony Award and a Drama Desk award for Maureen Stapleton as Evy Meara. Debra Kent will direct. October 27- November 5, 2023.

January 26 – February 4, 2024 will be Private Lives, written by Noel Coward and directed by Tim Rezash. This Comedy of errors tells the story of a divorced couple that end up honeymooning at the same hotel with their new spouses.  “A brilliant comedy. A very funny play.” – Newsweek 

In the spring, April 19-28, 2024 the play One Man, Two Guvners will take the stage. Directed by Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame member, Doug Lloyd, One Man, Two Guvners written by Richard Bean is a classic comedy of love, heroes, villains and confusion. “If you’re not having a good time at this show, you may be on the wrong medication.” —The Hollywood Reporter. 

Closing their season BCT has chosen the musical The Hello Girls, Music, Lyrics, & Book: Peter C. Mills and Book: Cara Reichel. This musical tells the story of the first women soldiers in World War 1. Directed by Matt Owens this show will run June 21-30, 2024. 

You can purchase season tickets for Beavercreek Community Theatre here: Bctheatre.org

TheatreLab Dayton, formerly Dare 2 Defy (D2D), has made quite the transformation over the last three years. They focus on showcasing the talented performers here in the Dayton area, and strive to create a safe space all while pushing the boundaries of what musical theatre can be. Their 2023-2024 season is called The Art of Making Art.  Every single show in the season is either about making theatre in some way or the art of storytelling.

They will jump in with the musical The Producers, Book by Mel Brooks Thomas Meehan, Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks. Based on the 1968 Film, The Producers will be presented in the beautiful Victoria Theater September 15 and 16, 2023 and will be directed by TheatreLab’s Angie Thacker. 

 

For Halloween they’ve selected the thriller Misery written by William Goldman and based on the novel by Stephen King, the story begins when a writer is “rescued” by one of his biggest fans, who soon has very strong opinions of his latest novel which leaves the writer writing for his life. This production will go up in October 2023.

[title of show] Music and Lyrics by Jeff Bowen, Book by Hunter Bell is quite literally about writing a new musical. TheatreLab is incredibly passionate about new and unproduced works and this show directly speaks to that cause. “Sly, sassy, inspired.” – Entertainment Weekly. This production will take place in January of 2024. 

The musical Into the Woods, Book byJames Lapine, Music and Lyrics byStephen Sondheim is a classic tale, one that TheatreLab has produced before.  TheatreLab’s Mackenzie King stated,  “It felt right to bring it back this season because we plan to attack it in an entirely new way- really digging into our mission of creating familiar art in a way audiences haven’t seen before.” You will be able to catch this audience favorite in March of 2024. 

Lastly, wrapping up their season will be the musical Once; Book by Enda Walsh, Music and Lyrics by Glen Hansard Markéta Irglová. Based on the Motion Picture Written and Directed by John Carney. This show will beautifully bookend the TheatreLab Dayton’s season in May of 2024. 

You can purchase season tickets for TheatreLab Dayton’s Season here: https://www.theatrelabdayton.org/season-memberships

Huffman Prairie Walking Tours

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Explore Huffman Prairie Flying Field to learn about how Wilbur and Orville Wright conducted early experiments in flight in a quiet Ohio cow pasture before it became the military installation it is today. Tours launch from the Simms Station parking lot. It is advised to bring a water bottle and wear sunscreen and bug repellent. All routes are handicap accessible and restrooms are available on site. Enter Huffman Prairie at Gate 16A Wright Patterson Air Force Base.

Slap’N Lizard Tap House Opens June 28th!

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West Carrollton is the home to a brand new beer hall, featuring a wall of 50 taps, which will open this Wednesday, June 28th. The Slap’n Lizard, allows guests to pour their own beer, sampling just a small sip or a full pint glass.  All beer is priced by the ounce.

Owner Michelle Kennedy and her husband Joe were living in Asheville, North Carolina after his retirement from the military and started exploring the exploding craft brewery scene there.  Joe began doing some home brewing and they talked about opening a brewery someday.

They moved back to the Dayton area, where they both are originally from and kept thinking about opening a business. They decided a self-pour tap house made more sense for them than a brewery. In brainstorming names for the business, they talked about a mural they had on the wall of their patio in North Carolina that had 3 lizards that looked they were walking up a wall and high fiving each other, and that helped them coin Slap’n Lizard.

Michelle explained the process for guests, upon entering they’ll check in at the front desk by providing your I.D. and a credit card to start your tab. You will then receive a card to unlock the taps, that allows them to access the 50 taps and pour their own beverages. When your ready to leave, just return the tap card you were issued  the front desk and our staff will close your tab and provide you with an itemized receipt.

Each card has a 32 ounce limit, which helps the bar to not over serve their guests. If a guest uses all 32 ounces, they can check in with a tap tender and if they see they are handling their liquor well, they can add additional ounces to the card. They currently have 40 craft beers, ciders and seltzer on tap, along with 6 domestic beer and 4 wines(2 White 2 Red). Each tap handle shows your the ABV, IBU’s and cost of the beverage:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Munchies like pretzels and cheese and chips will be available.  The plan is to add more food like boneless wings as they settle in.  The tap house also has a 50 seat dog friendly covered patio.

Michelle shares they are family friendly and they will be adding a kids corner with games and a toy box full of things to entertain the little ones.

Slap’N Lizard Tap House

2082 South Alex Road
West Carrollton, Ohio 45449

Hours:
Wednesday  3-10pm
Thursday 3-10pm
Friday 3-11pm
Saturday 11-11pm
Sunday 11-8pm

Newest Graeter’s Flavor is Sweet as Pie

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Here’s the scoop on Graeter’s Ice Cream latest bonus flavor of the summer. Lemon Meringue Pie, is the third of five bonus flavors from the company this year.  Lemon Meringue Pie is made with tart lemon candies, crunchy pie crust pieces and lemon marshmallow ice cream.

Graeter’s also announced a new “secret menu item,” a Lemon Meringue Pie sundae. The sundae features white bundt cake, strawberry topping, Lemon Meringue Pie ice cream and marshmallow topping. It is available while supplies last.

As will all Graeters’ bonus flavors, they are a limited-time offering, and once the flavor is gone, it is retired for the year.

The other bonus flavors that debuted earlier this year were Dough’licious, a caramel brownie batter ice cream loaded with peanut butter dough, cookie dough and brownie pieces and Hot Honey Crunch which is a crunchy honeycomb with  sweet icing pieces combined with a little heat.

You can get  Lemon Meringue Pie at any of the area scoop shops or online, or by using the Graeter’s app.

Celebrate Dayton Dance Initiative’s 5th Anniversary

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Celebrate Dayton Dance Initiative’s 5th Anniversary Season with our most ambitious show yet! Making Moves: The CoLAB is a true laboratory of ideas, bringing together 22 Dancers and 8 Artistic Collaborators for ONE epic performance. This show features live music, painting, and spoken word alongside the talented dancers of DDI. Experience dance up close and personal at the intimate PNC Arts Annex. Q&A with the artists at each show.

Concerts By Candlelight In Dayton

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Candlelight invites you to experience the magic of these spellbinding concerts that celebrate some of music’s most iconic artists from both the past and present. By combining breathtaking live music with a sea of flickering candles, Candlelight is offering a unique experience for music lovers to enjoy in a stunning Dayton venue.

Dayton Masonic Center’s rich history and amazing acoustics make the venue the perfect setting to host this series of magnificent Candlelight concerts. Choose from a range of spectacular performances before taking your seat in a serene setting that glimmers with the glow of hundreds of flickering candles.

A violinist playing surrounded by a sea of candles.

Candlelight Dayton: A Tribute to ABBA

For all you “Dancing Queens”, Candlelight has a special tribute in store for you—all about celebrating the music and legacy of the Swedish supergroup ABBA. Since winning Eurovision with “Waterloo” in 1974, their catchy songs have resonated with fans across the world, making them one of the most successful bands of all time. Their success increased in the late 1990s with the release of Mamma Mia, a world-renowned stage musical adaptation of ABBA’s songs, which would then be adapted into two top-grossing films.

ABBA are without a doubt one of the best-selling music acts in the history of popular music. Listening to their iconic songs such as, “Fernando”, “Chiquitita” and “SOS” at a stunning location bathed in the glow of candlelight is truly an experience unlike any other.

Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA
July 16, 2023 6:00 PM
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Candlelight Dayton: A Tribute to Queen

Get ready to go radio ga ga over this magnificent Candlelight tribute to the one and only Queen. Their anthemic songs and theatrical performances have captivated the hearts of music fans from all over the world since their inception back in the ’70s, influencing countless up-and-coming artists along the way.

Do the fandango to “Bohemian Rhapsody” and snap your fingers to “We Will Rock You” as a string quartet performs these fabulous hit songs and more. Fans of the rock band can enjoy Queen’s biggest tunes in the stunning Dayton Masonic Temple that’s ready to be lit up by the glow of hundreds of flickering candles.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen
August 6, 2023 6:00 PM
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