Dayton937

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

Archives for December 2025

Dayton at Work and Play: Protest Art

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Trump’s administration has worked hard to portray itself as Christian. The Speaker of the House says that the Bible directs all his political decisions. Many female Trump administration figures wear large cross necklaces, and the president himself sells “God Bless the U.S.A. Bibles.” Some ministers hail Trump as “God’s chosen one” and many of the president’s supporters identify as Christian nationalists.
But a growing number of Christian leaders are saying that the administration’s actions are not Christian, especially its actions against immigrants. They don’t fault the government for upholding the law but for doing so in the cruelest way possible. They condemn, in the Pope’s words, the administration’s “inhuman treatment of immigrants.”
Last Thursday I was invited to a gathering of Christians who are speaking out against the president. One of Michigan’s oldest protestant churches, Dearborn United Methodist Church, held “A Night of Art & Protest on Immigration.”
The church’s Pastor opened the evening by reviewing Matthew 25, where those who want to follow Jesus are told how they are to live. They must actively help people in need, doing things like feeding the hungry, welcoming strangers, and visiting those in prison.
Then people presented protest art they had created. There were songs, poems and even a children’s book. I spoke about the president saying Haitian immigrants in Springfield were eating dogs and cats, and how that led me to learn more about immigration and to make the first protest art of my life. The church had bought all 12 of my NOT CRIMINAL pieces and had them on display. At the end of the meeting the Pastor said that if people felt that a specific piece of my art needed to be part of someone’s life, they could buy them. Nine were taken. The remaining three will be a permanent exhibition at the church.

A Comedy of Errors

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Shakespeare gets a holly jolly twist! A Comedy of Errors—one of the Bard’s most hilarious plays of mistaken identity.

This season, Shakespeare gets a holly jolly twist! A Comedy of Errors—one of the Bard’s most hilarious plays of mistaken identity—gets reimagined in a winter wonderland where two pairs of twins find themselves tangled in festive mayhem.

When two Santas and their mischievous elf assistants arrive in the same mall without realizing their doubles are already there, chaos ensues! Mix-ups, misunderstandings, and merry confusion abound as gifts are misplaced, tempers flare, and holiday magic turns everything upside down.

Full of slapstick humor, sparkling wit, and a sprinkle of Christmas cheer, this yuletide Comedy of Errors is the perfect way to laugh your way through the holiday season.

Playing into the Dayton beloved pastime tradition of Rike’s window displays, we will also be featuring our own window displays. This is a play you won’t want to miss this holiday season.

Shake It Off at The Taylor Party: Taylor Swift Dance Night Coming to The Brightside

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Calling all Swifties! Get ready to dance through the Eras as The Taylor Party brings a Taylor Swift-inspired dance celebration to The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Friday, December 19th.

This enchanting evening promises a journey through all of Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras, from her country beginnings to her latest chart-topping hits. Whether you’re Team “Fearless,” “1989,” “folklore,” or riding the “Eras Tour” wave, this party is designed for fans to celebrate the music that’s become the soundtrack to their lives.

An Evening of Swiftie Magic

The Taylor Party isn’t just a concert—it’s an immersive experience where attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Era-inspired outfits. Channel your inner “Reputation” era with sequins and attitude, go full “Lover” with pastels and butterflies, or embrace the cottagecore vibes of “folklore” and “evermore.” The fashion possibilities are as endless as Taylor’s catalog.

Doors open at 8 PM, with the dance party kicking off at 9 PM and running until midnight. DJs will be spinning Swift’s biggest hits all night long, giving fans plenty of time to sing along to every word and create unforgettable moments with fellow Swifties.

Event Details

When: Friday, December 19, 2025
Doors: 8 PM
Show: 9 PM – 12 AM
Where: The Brightside Music & Event Venue, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton
Tickets: $20 in advance / $25 day of show
Age: 18+

Advance tickets are available now for $20, with day-of-show tickets priced at $25. Given the massive popularity of all things Taylor Swift right now, early ticket purchase is recommended to secure your spot at what’s sure to be one of the hottest dance parties of the holiday season.

The event is open to ages 18 and up, making it the perfect pre-holiday celebration for college students home for winter break and young professionals looking to end 2025 on a high note.

About The Brightside

Located at 905 E 3rd St in downtown Dayton, The Brightside Music & Event Venue has become a go-to destination for unique entertainment experiences in the Miami Valley. The venue’s intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for themed dance parties where everyone can feel part of the celebration.

So grab your besties, pick your Era, and get ready to make some magic. As Taylor herself would say, “Long live all the magic we made!”

For tickets and more information, visit The Brightside’s website or social media channels. Don’t miss your chance to be part of The Taylor Party—after all, it’s been a long time coming, and we’re ready for it.

Are you attending The Taylor Party? Tag us in your Era-inspired outfit photos and use #TaylorPartyDayton to connect with other local Swifties!

Musically Yours for the Holidays

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Experience the magic of the holidays like never before with ‘Musically Yours for the Holidays – Live from the Hidden Gem Music Club in Dayton Ohio. Immerse yourself in a festive musical atmosphere, featuring stunning live performances by local and national artists. From secular to the sacred, jazz, pop & R&B, enjoy all your favorite holiday songs.
Wear your festive holiday outfit, bring a toy or winter wear to donate to children in need, enjoy a few of your favorite holiday treats on our Grazing Table. Don’t miss this extraordinary holiday music concert!
Click link below for ticktets
Friday December 12, 2025
7:30pm Doors open at 7:00pm
Tickets $30

Soup For You!

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Craving some soup to warm you up?  From the first steaming spoonful, to that little bit of liquid left in the bottom, these are the best bowls of chow that the Miami Valley has to offer.  So, all you serious eaters, get a spoon, get some crackers if need be, and check out our list of MUST EAT soups.

With some help from our Dayton Foodies group, we’ve pulled together some recommendation for Dayton tastiest soups:


FRENCH ONION SOUP
Any one of Doubleday’s soups could make this list.  In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one is a favorite.  Dayton  regulars have stuffed the restaurant for decades, and many have felt the hot, gooey dripping flavor of the french onion soup. Other top mentions for French onion include The Oakwood Club, Buckhorn Tavern and The Paragon Super Club.

THE NEW ORLEANS STYLE GUMBO 

New Orleans Gumbo from Jimmie’s Ladder 11

Hearty, rich and just the right spiciness, this soup is one of those “OMG” moments when you take a bite. Known for a strongly flavored stock, meat or shellfish (or sometimes both), a thickener, and the Creole “holy trinity”: celery, bell peppers, and onions. Gumbo is often categorized by the type of thickener used, whether okra or filé powder (dried and ground sassafras leaves). It’s been said that Jimmie’s Ladder 11 has the best gumbo outside of the big easy, but  Sands ands Seafood and Sports is fast gaining on them. For a different take on gumbo check out DiSalvo’s Deli for their chicken gumbo. Perfectly carved, generous chicken pieces, line a delicately light broth.  The bowl is filled with a treasure trove of vegetables and tremendous flavor. You’ll also find it at Rip Rap Roadhouse and Rip Rap Roadhouse.

CLAM CHOWDER

Jay’s Clam Chowder, a Dayton original

This  is a soup with cream or milk mixed with ingredients such as potatoes, sweet corn, smoked haddock, clams and prawns, etc. Some cream-style chowders do not use cream, and are instead prepared using milk and a roux to thicken them.  The creamy broth, the chunks of fresh clams, and the perfect dash of pepper make this soup. Seajax, Club Oceano, Smith’s Boathouse, Bullwinkles and Jay’s Seafood, Treasure Island all have raves for their New England Clam Chowder.

HOT & SOUR SOUP
It happens to be one of the healthiest mushroom soup recipes in the world! A Chinese restaurant favorite, it’s hearty, savory, sour – and as spicy as you want it to be. Filled with mushrooms, tofu and silky egg ribbons, Hot and Sour soup is thickened with cornflour/cornstarch so the broth is beautifully glossy. Fu Mon Lau – hot and sour soup is  packed with veggies, low in calories and low in fat. Authentic Chinese hot and sour soup is considered medicinal as it combines healing chicken broth, circulation improving fungus (mushrooms), and antioxidant packed ginger and vinegar. Flavors Eatery in Centerville offers an original house hot drop which combines the heat of hot and sour with a more traditional egg drop soup.

POTATO SOUP
A creamy soup primarily made with cooked potatoes, broth, mil or cream and ofen includes aromatics like onion, celery and garlic.  It’s often topped with  bacon bits, cheese, and green onions depending on the recipe.  Local favorites include The Famous, Salt Block. Biscuit Company, Bullwinkles, Grist, The Dublin Pub and Corner Kitchen,  Try Tony & Pete’s for a sweet potato version.

CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP
This comforting  soup is usally made with  with shredded chicken, black beans, and corn  and topped with tortilla strips its full of flavor, and very filling! Some of the place you’ll find it are Charlie’s Deli,  Mi Lindo Jalisco Mexican Restaurant And Bar, Big Sky Bread Company and El Meson.

POZOLE
A traditional soup or stew from Mexican cuisine. It is made from hominy and typically chicken or pork), and can be seasoned and garnished with shredded lettuce or cabbage, chilivpeppers, onion, garlic, radishes, avocado, salsa or limes.  It’s time-consuming to make, so restaurants will usually only serve it on the weekends.  The owner of Chiapas Mexican Grill tells us he uses grandmother’s recipe for a chicken and hominy soup.  The broth is soothing yet spicy.  The chicken is tender and shreds of it soak between hominy corn.  Radishes float on top of this beautiful looking soup.  One of the most unique soups on this list, it is authentic Mexican fare. You can also find it at Sueno, Taqueria Mixteca, El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant in Franklin and La Michoacana Mexican Market & Restaurant

El Meson

BLACK BEAN SOUP

This flavorful and hearty soup is a staple in Latino cuisine, made with black beans, onion, garlic, pepper, ham hock, olive oil and a bit of vinegar. Pictured here from El Meson, also check it out at  Jorrge’s Reataurant Cantina,  Nelly’s A Taste of Bolivia and Elsa’s .

CABBAGE ROLL SOUP

You can find it at Village Family Restaurant in Waynesville, Our Place on West Third and sometimes at @Jimmie’s Ladder 11 on Brown Street

 


TOM KAI SOUP (Coconut Soup)
Rich and creamy yet tangy and salty, this Thai coconut chicken soup recipe is filling but light and positively bursting with flavor from Coconut milk soup, mushroom, galangal root, citrus leaves, lime juice. You can get it made with chicken or veggies or the  Seafood Combo (Shrimp, Scallops, Squid) Also availaable from rom Massaman Thai Cuisine, also popular at Penn’s Thai Grille, Thai Table, Sky Asian Cuisine, Singa Thai and White Lotus.

WHITE CHICKEN CHILI
Archer’s Tavern, Stone House Tavern in Waynesville, Rays Wine Spirits Grill in Clayton and Dorothy Lane Market and Rip Rap Roadhouse

SPECIALTY SOUPS:

THE TURTLE SOUP at THE AMBER ROSE:

Amber Rose Turtle Soup

This soup is exotic, thick and hearty.  It is an old recipe, passed down by Elinore, the previous owner of the restaurant.   This is one of those things that you eat and immediately want more.  Visit Joe Castellano and his chefs and try it for yourself as an appetizer to one of their Eastern European meals.

 

THE PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S:
Don’t be fooled by the sound of it, don’t judge a book by its cover.  This is one of the best soups in Dayton.  The flavor isn’t sharp, it is surprisingly mild and rich.  If you like cream of broccoli soup, this is an even better spin on it.  This is a great warm up right before you try one of their burger selections!

THE SIZZLING RICE SOUP FROM CHINA COTTAGE:
For decades they have been serving this white meat chicken, fresh vegetables and steaming rice kernels in an unforgettable broth.  The flavor is a perfect balance of mushrooms, carrots, other vegetables and rice in a white meat chicken and broth mixture.  North China also has a good one.


SEAFOOD PHO  from Pho Mi in Miamisburg
Pho is a veitnamese soup made with broth, rice noodles and herbs and is know asthe national dish of Vietnam.  The seafood version is loaded with shrimp, crab meat and squid, and is simply delicious.

 

 

SPICY VEGETABLE SOUP from KABUKI. This soup  is a fantastic mix of spicy pepper broth, bean sprouts and onions.  This can clear your sinuses and make your cold feel better all at the same time.  It is the perfect tune up for a sushi feast.  Enjoy the color and aroma of the soup, it tastes as good as it looks.

Soup Flights:  Giovanni’s in Fairborn offers 3 cups of soup and 2 breadsticks for $14.99. Choose from a rotating soup menu. Black Rock Bar & Grill near Fairfield Commons offers SOUP-3-WAYZ – Choose 3 of your favorites for  – 9.99

Also don’t forget to check out Dorothy Lane Market for a daily selection of housemade soups.  They usually have four or five featured soups, including vegetarian  and gluten free options.  Check here to check out the soup of the day selections.

Have we missed your favorite soup?  Tell us about it in the comments below.

 

Try Winter Hiking at Sugarcreek

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Just because it is cold outside, does not mean you have to stay indoors. Join the MetroParks Recreation Team this winter for a guided hiking experience on the beautiful trails. This is a great opportunity to learn about winter trails, meet other hikers, stay active and get outside. Please be prepared with multiple layers and water. Weather Dependent.

Learn about winter hiking, meet other hikers, stay active and start the new year by getting outside.

Registration required

Igloos are Back on The Foundry Rooftop

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The Foundry’s rooftop igloos are back, complete with glowing firelight, chef-driven dishes, and smoked whiskeys, classic cocktails, and local brews delivered to melt the chill.  Looking out at Day Air Park’s Deck the Diamonds adds a bright view to the rooftop dining.

Gather up to 6 of your favorite people and settle in with blankets, heaters, and all the warm vibes (plus our full food & beverage menu, of course). Perfect for everything from date nights to squad hangs to family celebrations, it’s your own private snow globe, minus the snow. $100 deposit is credited to your final bill at the end of your experience. (Monday-Thursday) $125 deposit is credited to your final bill at the end of your experience. (Friday & Saturday) Reservations require a $300 spending minimum Monday–Thursday (before tax and 22% gratuity) for a 2-hour time frame. Reservations require $300 spending minimum Friday-Saturday (before tax and 22% gratuity) for a 2-hour time frame.

Reservations – If you are a party of two, there is a minimum of $75/person to reserve the igloos. In case of inclement weather, we’ll move your reservation indoors if available or help you reschedule.

PLEASE NOTE: Cancellation requests must go through [email protected] If you cancel more than two days in advance, your deposit will be refunded; cancellations within two days will forfeit the deposit. All Reservations for the igloos- please visit open table – Foundry Dining Experience The Following will be black out dates for the igloos: December 7th, December 11th, December 31st, February 13th & February 14th

The Foundry

124 Madison St
Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 965-7520

DAI Art For All Weekend- Free Admission

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On Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, 2025, the Dayton Art Institute (DAI) will welcome art lovers of all backgrounds to the museum, free of charge, for a special Art For All weekend.

Art for All reinforces the Dayton Art Institute’s commitment to accessibility by offering free general admission to all visitors. Guests can explore the collection galleries, as well as the current Special and Focus Exhibitions. This initiative is made possible with the generosity and vision of our dedicated sponsors: Presenting Sponsors Kate and Steve Hone; Sustaining Sponsors Ramona and Todd Vikan; and Director Level Sponsors Karen and Eric Spina.

The museum is open from 11 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and noon to 5 PM on Sundays. Art for All weekend features two full days of festive programming for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy performances, hands-on artmaking, tours and family-friendly activities during their visit. Saturday highlights include a Holiday Concert by the Dayton Bach Society (12–12:30 PM), an artist talk with Sarah Richard (12:45 PM), rotating gallery tours and all-day experiences such as an Art Nouveau artmaking activity, a winter photo booth and a family scavenger hunt. Sunday continues the fun with additional gallery tours and all-day creative activities. In the spirit of the season, the DAI encourages all attendees who are able to bring a dry-good donation to support the Dayton Food Bank as we come together to celebrate art, community and generosity.

The Art for All dates were carefully selected to coincide with the major highlights in the DAI’s exhibition schedule, giving guests a chance to see all three of the DAI’s Special Exhibitions, including the current exhibition, The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art (on view October 18, 2025–January 11, 2026). 

Additional Exhibitions at the museum include Strange Worlds: Photographs by Jay Hoops (October 4, 2025–January 4, 2026), Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection (April 13, 2024–January 3, 2027),Themes in Yoshitoshi’s 100 Aspects of the Moon: Love & Longing (October 25–January 25, 2026) and Engaged: Rings from around the World (November 8, 2025–April 19, 2026).

For more information about planning a visit, including current museum hours and updates, go to www.daytonartinstitute.org/visit or call 937-223-4ART (4278). Connect with the Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and videos, and exclusive offers.

 

 

Nominate A Miami Valley Entrepreneurs 35 Years & Under For BBB Spark Award

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Better Business Bureau serving Dayton & the Miami Valley is pleased to announce nominations are open for the 2026 BBB Spark Award. This award honors trustworthy entrepreneurs, 35 and under or new business owners of any age operating for less than three years. Recipients of the award should embody and cultivate the Three C’s of Trust: Character, Culture and Community. These character-driven leaders and organizations are the future of our trusted marketplace.

Applications and nominations are accepted online. If you would like to nominate an organization, the deadline to do so is February 2, 2026. Nominated organizations must complete and submit their application by March 2, 2026. (Organizations may self-nominate.) Information regarding award criteria can also be found at this Web site.

The Spark Award winners will be announced on May 12, 2026 at the BBB’s Torch Award For Ethics Dinner. Additionally, recipients will be involved in telling their stories at BBB events throughout the year.

The Class of 2026 honorees will inspire others to take the leap into successful entrepreneurship. If you, or someone you know, is a young leader of an outstanding entrepreneurial company, submit a nomination or entry for the Spark Award today.

Christy Mauch, interim president and CEO of BBB serving Dayton/Miami Valley says, “The Miami Valley has many dynamic young business leaders and we are thrilled to spotlight them with this honor. Help us recognize their courage and success as they lead innovation in our community. These individuals have earned it. Submit a nomination today.”

If you have questions regarding this recognition, call (937) 610-2270 or email [email protected]

Pizza Hut Brings Back Triple Treat Box

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Pizza Hut is getting into the holiday spirit with a cozy new collaboration.

The chain has brought back its popular Triple Treat Box, which contains two medium one-topping pizzas, five breadsticks, and a choice of dessert, all served in a newly designed festive holiday box.

The box serves as inspiration for the new Triple Treat Box onesie, an all-in-one garment featuring the same designs. Launched in time for National Ugly Sweater Day on Dec. 19, the red, white and green graphic onesie was created in partnership with holiday clothing maker Tipsy Elves. It is available for $89.95 in both men’s and women’s sizes here, while supplies last.

The Triple Treat Box is available for a limited time and is supported by an ad campaign starring quarterback Josh Allen.  Allen reminds fans to “go hard” for the holidays, while wearing a pizza-themed Christmas sweater (which is also available from Tipsy Elves).

Another  campaign spot depicts the chaos that ensues when a holiday guest brings a real live reindeer to Christmas dinner.

Good Grief Skate

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Calling all Peanuts fans! Come out and join us as we bring the magic of Charlie Brown to the MetroParks Ice Rink! Enjoy the jazzy, holiday themed music while you skate, then play some games in the comfort tent that will make you feel like you’re part of the gang.

Skaters are welcome to relax in one of several warming areas, including a heated comfort tent containing games and seating. The RiverScape Café will also be open, offering a variety of food and drinks (including our delicious hot cocoa!) for purchase. For those 21 and over, a variety of alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase as part of the Downtown Dayton DORA.

Admission is $7, Skate Rental is $3, and there are a limited number of skate helpers available for free. Thanks to our Access to Nature financial assistance program, residents who receive SNAP/EBT can simply show their card at the time of purchase to receive 75% off Admission and Skate Rental

Gluten Free Bakery Announces Closing

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After 12½ years of love, flour, tears, triumphs, and community, The Neighborhood Nest in Fairborn will be closing their bakery on December 31, 2025. Owner Amber Tipton posted this today on her social media:
“This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life. The Nest was never just a bakery—it was a safe haven for the allergy community, a place where people could finally exhale and enjoy food made with care. Together, we built something rare and beautiful. I will forever be grateful for the community we curated and the trust you placed in us.
Unfortunately, the financial reality has become impossible to sustain. Over the last year, food costs have risen anywhere from 20% to 50%, utilities have continued to climb, and in January our lease is set to double—even though we already struggle to meet our current rent. We have poured every ounce of personal financial resources into keeping our doors open, but we simply have no more to give.
To every customer who has been part of The Nest family: thank you. Thank you for supporting us, believing in us, and sharing your lives with us. Thank you for the conversations, the laughter, the tears, and the humanity. The relationships I’ve had with you—and with my incredible staff—are what made these 12½ years richer than I ever could have imagined.
We hope to make this last month as sweet and meaningful as possible.
With endless gratitude and love,

– Amber & The Nest Team

On a personal note, I wanted to share that Amber has the biggest heart, often the first one to offer to help on local fundraisers, or to feed our community during the furlough and SNAP issues.  I am so sad for her and her staff and wish them all the very best as the head on to the next chapter.

She’ll be open for the month of December, let’s send her out on a high note- stop on by for some fabulous cinnamon roles, breads, pies and other treats.
-LMG

Burger King® Invites Guests to Dive Into a Sea of Flavor with All-New SpongeBob™ Menu

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Burger King® is inviting Guests to experience an under-the-sea-inspired adventure for the whole family, teaming up with The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants™  to launch the all-new SpongeBob  Menu. With a longtime tradition of bringing fun and flavor to its partnerships, this menu is no exception, serving up a collection of sea-sonal creations just in time for the holidays.

Burger King® Invites Guests to Dive Into a Sea of Flavor with All-New SpongeBob™ Movie Menu (PRNewsfoto/Burger King)

The SpongeBob menu features limited-time creations inspired by all your favorite SpongeBob movie characters, including:

  • SpongeBob’s Krabby Whopper®: A 1/4 lb. 100% beef patty, flame grilled on a yellow square bun, (color from natural spice) stacked with melty American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and a splash of mayo and ketchup.
  • Mr. Krabs’ Cheesy Bacon Tots: Crispy, coin-shaped tots filled with gooey cheese, savory bacon bits, and fluffy potatoes. Served in a treasure chest carton, they’re a crispy, cheesy jackpot straight from the Krusty Krab®.
  • Patrick’s Star-berry Shortcake Pie: Strawberry shortcake pie slice with strawberry and vanilla flavored creamy layers, a crunchy cookie crumb crust, shortcake cookie crumbles, and pink star-shaped sprinkles make this dessert a star-studded undersea treat inspired by SpongeBob’s best pal, Patrick.
  • Pirate’s Frozen Pineapple Float: Icy refreshing frozen pineapple flavored beverage topped with tropical flavor cold foam. Sip, slurp, and let your imagination set sail with every frosty sip.
  • Bikini Bottom™ Bundle: Can’t pick just one? Enjoy all four LTO items in a Pineapple shaped Under the Sea Box, complete with medium float and 8-piece Cheesy Bacon Tots.
  • King Jr. Meal: For the tiniest fans in the family, Burger King is offering a special-edition King Jr. Meal in a Pineapple shaped Under the Sea Box, featuring one of six collectible SpongeBob™ toys and limited-edition SpongeBob crown.

“At Burger King we do partnerships that are fun for the whole family and Oh Jellyfish! Arghh we ready for SpongeBob this month!” said Joel Yashinsky, Chief Marketing Officer, Burger King US&C. “This latest partnership with The SpongeBob™ Movie might just be our most exciting menu yet, with four delicious menu innovations, one-of-a-kind kids toys, and exclusive packaging including two special edition BK crowns.”

“Our long-standing partnership with Burger King has always been built on bold ideas and shared creativity — but this SpongeBob campaign is next-level, said Michelle Hagen, Executive Vice President of Worldwide Partnerships at Paramount Pictures. “We’re diving deeper than ever into the world of Bikini Bottom and bringing fans the most epic FUN and never-been-done-before. It’s the ultimate mash-up of imagination and innovation.”

And the adventure doesn’t stop there! Royal Perks members are invited to order items from the SpongeBob Menu with SpongeBob himself through the BK App and get access to exclusive meals.

Enjoy the Ride ‘Back to the Future!’

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‘Oh My God….that car was amazing!’  ‘The backdrops were eye-popping!’ ‘I loved the tongue-in-cheek musical numbers!’

‘Back to the Future’ at the Schuster, is a free-wheeling tribute to the beloved movie, and a lot more! Although the songs, which at times can feel a little bit karaoke, are full-on fun and silly, you often lose focus on a cast that is giving it their all throughout the romp. I couldn’t help but notice that folks were anxious in the first act to see the ‘legendary’ DeLorean and its magical entrance. Meanwhile, a story is being told for all of us as well. Through hi-tech staging…and reminders of days gone by (1985 was 40 years ago….WTF!)….we are thrown into a land of the McFly family which remains true to the form as created for the film. There are some fun, if not over-the-top, intros to each of the family members. Lucas  Marty does a good job of maintaining the look and vibe for movie fans. Mike Bindemann‘s George is funky and endearing. Fisher Lane Stewart gives 110% to the Dave role, and Abbey Freidmann‘s Linda foots the bill. Perhaps the McFly to watch in this performance is Zan Berube‘s Lorraine. She seamlessly does it all…gives you the frump, the fabulous, and ‘freaky’ sides of the mom figure!

The energy picks up in the theatre when David Josefberg‘s take on Doc Brown, hits the stage. Throughout the show, he makes his moments, HIS MOMENTS! Also of note, Cartreze Tucker belting ‘Gotta Start Somewhere’  and the devilish performance by Nathaniel Hackmann as Biff. And yes, the car. The CAR! I didn’t want to like it…almost was dead-set on not liking it…just to be contrary. But the truth is, it’s pretty astounding to watch. Blended with backgrounds that look alive and real (the high school gym scene is a mind-trip!)…the car is, in its own way, another star of the show!

 

Advice…go into the theatre looking to have a good time. A fun, funny, fantastic frolic awaits….

that kids of all ages will enjoy!

Ticket info at http://daytonlive.org

 

 

 

 

The Dessert Room Opening Dec 11th

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Charlie Carroll of Hospitalité Group, owners of Table 33 and Lucho have shared they are getting ready to launch a third concept in the Dayton Arcade.  Housed in its own dedicated space connected to Table 33, The Dessert Room is a nostalgic after-dinner destination focused solely on elevated desserts and post-meal cocktails in a very posh atmosphere.
“To start you will have to have a dinner reservation at Table to get a reservation in The Dessert Room. In the new year they will open up some reservations to the public… those that don’t have a table reservation,” says Carroll.  They might even  take a few “Dessert for Dinner” Reservations around 5:00 pm to start.

The Dessert Room Menu

(1) THE CHOCOLATIER’S TABLE (Signature Dessert)
Interactive Dessert Experience for Two or More

A theatrical, tableside indulgence crafted to ignite imagination and delight.

Your server begins by pouring warm streams of premium chocolates—dark, milk, and white—directly onto a custom silicone dessert canvas, creating an edible abstract painting in real time.

Guests are then invited to dip, swirl, sculpt, and savor using an assortment of playful confections: handcrafted marshmallows, gourmet gummy bears, candied citrus, brittle, toffee shards, and rotating seasonal sweets.

Part artistry, part nostalgia, and entirely unforgettable—The Chocolatier’s Table transforms dessert into a communal experience meant to be explored, shared, and devoured.

(2) PISTACHIO RICOTTA CAKE
Delicate layers of creamy pistachio mousse and whipped sweet ricotta, finished with a decadent Grand Marnier ganache and topped with candied pistachios for a bright, luxurious crunch.

(3) SEASONAL GELATO & MACARONS
Three scoops of smooth, seasonal gelato paired with crisp, colorful macarons — a playful, elegant celebration of texture and flavor.

(4) AFFOGATO CON MOCHA
Silky vanilla bean gelato served table-side with a pour-over of rich coffee and cocoa syrup. Hot meets cold in the most indulgent way.

(5) FLOURLESS BUCKEYE CAKE
A dark, sumptuous chocolate cake inspired by the classic Ohio confection. Finished with a fluffy peanut butter mousse and a drizzle of cocoa syrup.

(6) SEASONAL CRÈME BRÛLÉE
A rotating showcase of seasonal flavors beneath a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. Simple, refined, and unforgettable.

(7) HOUSE PIES
A selection of rotating pies crafted with seasonal ingredients and fresh-baked crusts. Ask your server for today’s offerings.

The Dessert Room

39 W 4th St
Dayton, OH 45402

Hours are expected to be
Thur- Sat 5 – 11pm

Family Reopens Italian Restaurant To Honor Franco

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This week Franco The Foodie officially reopens Wednesday to Saturday from 3-7pm.  After Franco Gallo passed away in October from complications from a heart transplant, his family has decided to honor his legacy by carrying on the family business, which has just 4 employees.

The Gallo Family

Running the kitchen will be Alexa, Franco’s oldest daughter, who had been cooking by her dads side for several years in the restaurant.  Jess, the younger daughter,  handles the front of the house and customer relations.

While the majority of the business, there is a small seating area where regulars dine in. And just like always, you can expect a weekly changing menu filled with Chef Franco’s delicious recipes. He taught his daughters well, and they’re carrying forward the torch of his labor of love with pride and so much heart.

This week also marks a deeply meaningful milestone: Franco and Karen’s wedding anniversary. On December 2nd, they would have celebrated 33  years of marriage. Thirty-three years ago, they were married in Franco’s hometown of Brindisi, Italy, while Karen was stationed there with the United States Navy, and that’s where their incredible journey of love first began.

So they thought, what better way to reopen than with Franco’s cherished anniversary dish, the one he made every year to celebrate with Karen. This week’s featured special is a beautiful sneak peek of something truly close to Franco’s heart:    Tortelloni Panna, Prosciutto e Funghi
“This time last year, he shared this very Tortellini Panna dish on Living Dayton,  which we  are honored to share with you. From our hearts to yours, thank you. Grazie Mille for allowing us to keep Franco’s spirit, love, and flavors alive. We invite you to come enjoy these amazing dishes that meant so much to him, and now, to our family{ says Gallo.”
“It’s overwhelming with the amount of support we got from the community and the media.  We’re so grateful for the community support our family has received.  Both  Giovanni’s & Copey’s both did fundraisers for us a and we were really wowed- seeing other local businesses who supported us. I just can’t say enough about how heartwarming that is. It’s amazing and I know Franco would be very proud,” Karen shared, getting choked up as she was talking with us.
Here’s the menu for opening week:
As always you can message them with your preorder, call  at 937-679-5404 (Wednesday – Saturday from 3-7PM) or find us on DoorDash for delivery. 👍 Note – You can preorder as soon as you want, for any day you want!
How to preorder? Please send a message (via private messenger on their facebook page) with your order and desired pickup day/half hour timeframe (such as 4-4:30) and phone contact info. They will text you when your order is ready to avoid wait times, and aim to have your order ready as quickly as possible.
Our goal is to make this as efficient as possible with the freshly made entrees, all carefully crafted for each order  received.

Franco The Foodie

120 W Jefferson Street
New Carlisle, OH 45344
937-679-5404
Wed- Sat 3- 7pm