Dayton937

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

Lisa Grigsby

Local Volunteer Spreading Lasagna Love

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Lasagna Love was started at the beginning of the pandemic, when the founder was looking for a way to help moms in her community. She and her toddler started making and delivering meals to families in the neighborhood who were struggling, whether that struggle was financial, emotional, or simply a feeling of overwhelm.

Lasagna Love has since grown into a national movement, with thousands of people all cooking and delivering meals to families in their communities. What they do is simple: feed families, spread kindness, and strengthen communities. Their mission is not only to help address the incredible rise in food insecurity among families, but also to provide a simple act of love and kindness during a time full of uncertainty and stress. In just under eight months, Lasagna Love has spread across 47 states in America.

I first heard about this program when my friend and local volunteer extraordinaire Laura Rea posted her experience as a first time Lasagna Mamma.

“Lasagna Love is a nationwide organization that pairs lasagna makers with those in their neighborhood who could use a food hug. Gift a meal, or get a meal, the website makes it easy. Two families today, and one more delivery tomorrow. Contactless delivery – drop, text, and go!”

Laura shared “I ended up making 5 pans – 3 to deliver to my matched families, one for home, and one to a friend who recently lost his wife and is still learning to cook. Although I know it’s not about me, I was giddy after doing the drop offs – hot lasagna, at dinner time, to families who needed a little lasagna love!”

She went on to explain how easy it was to sign up and make a difference.  The website allows you to sign up to bake lasagna, request a meal or even sponsor a meal.  Laura  explained, “I am retired, so I offered to deliver baked, and hot from the oven at dinner time! Some do refrigerate-heat at home. Very flexible, and the maker works with the recipient to figure out what works best!”
The founder of Lasagna Love explains the program here:
I’m now motivated to share some lasagna, how about you?

 

Valentine’s Day 2021 Restaurant Specials

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Whether you’re heading out to a special dinner with your partner, your bestie, your mom, or your crew – make it a special one by going to a restaurant that’s going the extra mile on February 14. Since the holiday falls on Sunday, many  of these spots are even spreading the love and giving diners the chance to celebrate earlier in the week as well.   Remember to call ahead to your location and make reservations or purchase advance tickets as available.

We’ll keep updating this list as we hear of more, or if you know of a Valentine’s Special we should list, please send us some info.

Amber Rose
1400 Valley St, Dayton
(937) 228-2511

 

Carvers Steaks & Chops
1535 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Washington Twp.

937-433-7099

Sunday, Feb. 14
Add a single Rose from Oakwood Florists on your table for $5 or a romantic bouquet of a dozen roses in a glass vase for $50 to help make it a special evening.
elé Cake Co. Bistro & Wine Bar SOLD OUT
Austin Landing, 3680 Rigby Road

(937) 384-2253

Feb 14th 6pm $75++

 Enjoy five Indian inspired courses paired with complementing wines. Presented by our own chef Samantha Trick and Rob Wocks of Vintage Wine. Be sure to order your favorite wines as special discounts will be available during the event. Cocktail hour begins at 5 pm, and dinner begins at 6 pm.

El Meson

El Meson celebrates 40 years this weeekend

903 E Dixie Dr, Dayton, OH 45449
(937) 859-8229

Valentines Sunday Brunch Feb 14th 11am – 3pm
Choose from sweet or savory menu items- entrees run $12-16

 Latin Food for Latin Lovers
Wed. – Sat.  4pm – 9pm

890 South Main Street Centerville
(937) 723-6328
135 East Second St. Dayton
(937) 895-4066
Whether a Valentine’s Date or a “Galentine” get together, we have an awesome feature menu for the upcoming Holiday! These features will run February 11th thru Feb 14th. Make your reservations today!

Valentine Wine Dinner  Feb 11th 6pm

Enjoy a romantic evening with a 5 course meal and wine pairings prepared by Chef Margot Blondet.

Course 1: JEIO Prosecco Rosé paired with grilled Oysters Parmesan, (Scallops for carryout) and chimichurri butter.

Course 2: Four Vines Naked Chardonnay served with arugula, strawberries, burrata and fried polenta in a hot honey vinaigrette.

Course 3: Domain de L’Ostal Estibals to enjoy with beet raviolis filled with goat cheese, caramelized onions, and sage, topped with orange brown butter and crushed pistachios.

Course 4: Four Vines Kinker Cabernet Sauvignon and a grilled filet mignon medallion in a Ruby Port wine sauce served with wild rice and a watercress salad.

Course 5: Sexual Chocolate Red Blend and chocolate ganache in a strawberry coulis.

Price: $89 person includes tax and gratuity

Sojourners Brewstillery
8150 Washington Village Dr, Centerville

4 course Valentines Dinner!
February 14 @ 6:00 pm  $50

We are collaborating with La Embajada Underground
to bring you an incredible 4 course Valentines Dinner! Price is $50 a person

 

130 W. 2nd St. Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 999-3070
Feb 13 & 14
1st Course
Cream of celery root soup garnished with parsley pistou, pickled onion, creme fraiche, lardon, lemon dressed micro radish and toasted ciabatta crumbs (GF optional)
Or
Seared jumbo scallop, red miso-blood orange brown butter, leek confit, Ed Hill’s local Red grits, cashew crunch (GF)
2nd Course
Herb marinated beef tenderloin, burnt lettuce, aerated Maytag blue cheese, roasted shallot, confit potato, Cabernet-bacon vinaigrette (GF)
Or
Seared salmon, pickled beet, crispy potato, cucumber ribbon, lime-dill-ginger beurre blanc, salmon roe (GF)
3rd Course
Coffee four ways: Housemade coffee ice cream garnished with smoked sea salt, cocoa crumb, coffee creme anglaise, chocolate covered espresso bean, cherry fluid gel and coffee “caviar” (GF optional)
OR
Housemade key lime pie: Graham cracker crust, Chantilly cream , spun sugar, beet foam, mint
This is a ticketed dinner with limited seats available. Tickets are $65 per person. Guests can order off of our full wine & cocktail menu throughout the evening.

 

TJ Chumps

12 E. Linden Ave., Miamisburg
559 S. Main St., Englewood
1100 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn
7050 Executive Blvd., Huber Heights,

3 course meal/$39 couple

Spaghetti Warehouse
36 W 5th St, Dayton
937) 461-3913
Friday, February 12th through Monday, February 15th   VALENTINE’S DINNER FOR TWO!
Featuring One Appetizer to share, Two Delicious Entrees, and lots of our popular warm Sourdough Bread. Choose any two glasses from our wine or beer selections. And top it off with any Cheesecake Factory Bakery Dessert to share. All for just $55!
Carry out to enjoy at home, or dine in with us with confidence that all safety protocols are followed. Reservations are highly recommended! Offer not available for online ordering or delivery.
The Caroline
5 South Market Street, Troy

937-552-7676

Appetizers:
Shrimp bisque CUP $6 BOWL $9
5 jumbo shrimp $13
Ahi Tuna-seared rare served w/wasabi $13
3 pork eggrolls $11
Caroline’s Crab cakes w/remoulade sauce $13
Bourbon mushrooms with garlic bread $9
SALADS:
Caesar or house wedge $6
The Caroline w/ dried cranberries, walnuts, apples, bleu cheese crumbles $6
ENTREES:
12 oz prime rib $32
Caroline House steak- seasoned 10oz certified angus top sirloin $26
6 oz angus filet mignon w/burgundy sauce, portabello mushrooms and onion rings $32
Grilled Maple glazed fresh 8oz filet of salmon $26
Chicken linguini grilled 8oz chicken breast in creamy parmesan alfredo sauce $18
Jumbo sea scallop linguini $18
Thai Vegetable saute $16
Smoke chicken ravioli with a sun dried tomato and basil cream sauce $23
DESSERTS:
Triple chocolate cake with chocolate ganache $7
New York style cheesecake $7
Reese’s cup cheesecake $7
Coffee or dutch apple ice cream $7
Regular menu will not be available Valentine’s Weekend
21 W Market St Germantown
(937) 855-7759
Available Wed, Feb 10- Sun, Feb 14th  Open 11am-10pm

The Wellington Grille


2450 Dayton Xenia Rd, Beavercreek
(937) 426-4600

We will be Featuring our FAMOUS 44oz Tomahawk Ribeye Steak Dinner for Two! Pre-Orders required due to limited availability.

Troll Pub
216 Wayne Ave, Dayton

(937) 723-7709

View 162 Restaurant and Lounge
at Crown Plaza 33 E.5th Street Dayton

937-224-0800

Feb 12 & 13, 5-10pm

Uno’s 
126 N Main St, Dayton
(937) 910-8000

CJ Chan Celebrates 5th Anniversary with IWatch Giveaway

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CJ Chan owners

Hi Chan and  Juan, the husband and wife team that run the Moraine location of CJ Chan are celebrating the locations 5th anniversary this week by hosting a give away for their loyal customers.  Starting Monday they will give away an Apple watch a day for five days.   Customers that like and share a graphic on Facebook will be entered in the drawing and each day there will be a winner posted, who can come to the restaurant to claim their watch.

After the success of the original location on Wilmington Ave, they wanted to build the Moraine location with a bigger kitchen and make it a bit more upscale. Hi shared with us there is a large Chinese population near the Alex Bell restaurant and they feel very thankful for the support they have received at both locations.  His brother runs the Wilmington spot and he admits he’s the better cook, while he claims to be the better businessman.

Like and share this image on DaytonDining Facebook page.

Chan says he learned to cook at his father’s side in Hong Kong, where he ran a five star restaurant.  He came to the US in 2002 to have more freedom. He started working at Dragon City in Dayton, eventually bought it and eventually sold it.  They opened CJ Chan to serve sushi and a wide variety of Chinese and Japanese dishes for dine-in and carryout.

Both husband and wife are quick to share the key to their success with their staff, who each received an apple watch as a thank you for their hard work during the first five years!

As we wrapped up our discussion, they even hinted their may be a 3rd restaurant in their future, that may be more Japanese in style.

CJ Chan

2747 W Alex Bell Rd
Moraine, OH 45459

(937) 259-8882

Dining Room Currently Closed
Carry Out Only

Monday- Saturday

10:30am – 10:00pm
Sunday:

11:30am – 10:00pm

Friday Nights Just Got Tastier Downtown

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The Salt Block Biscuit Company, located at 3rd Street in the Fire Blocks district. has jus announced they will now be open from 5-8pm on Friday nights for your dining pleasure.

Normally open Tues- Sat from 10am – 4pm, these extended hours are just perfect for tasting some of Salt Block’s heartier offerings.  Their Tinned Gourmet Seafood Planks from around the World, like the Smoked Rainbow Trout Platter served w/ 3 of their famous biscuits, pictured here.  Or perhaps you’d prefer to try Chimichurri Seared Octopus served over Mediterranean Cannellini Beans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course you can also stick to their sweets menu, featuring fabulous cakes, cookies, cobblers and more.  Anyone remember the wedding cake that used to be the perfect ending to a meal at Olive, An Urban Dive when it was open? Yep, owner Justin Mohler was the baker behind that tasty treat and is making it available on his counter at Salt Block!  You’ll find whole cakes, cookies by the dozen, brownies and you can even build your own gift boxes fill with with goodies of your choosing.  There’s even a bodega section where you can pick up cans of tea, truffle salt, jams and preserves, infused Olive Oils and Honey.

If you are not comfortable dining in, you can order online for carry out or curbside pick up on their website. 

 

The Salt Block Biscuit Company

115 East Third Street
Dayton, OH 45402

(937) 938-9079
Hours:
Tuesday- Thursday  10am – 4pm

Friday: 10am -4pm and 5-8pm

Saturday: 10am -4pm

Dayton Lost An Icon- Voltzy Passed Away

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VOLTZY, aka Rick Volz, operated a carry out hamburger joint in Moraine that was as well known for the owner’s sarcastic jabs as it was for the best cheeseburgers in town. Rick, who was a Ft. Wayne native, learned the business from his grandfather working at his shop growing up. He’d run a shop in the Dayton area for over 30 years, in 1988 he started serving burgers out of a 12 foot trailer.  he trailer grew to 16 ft then 24 ft, and in 2013 he built the Root Beer Stand on 4668 Springboro Pike.

He ground his beef fresh daily and during soup season he made a batch fresh each day.  His most popular cabbage roll soup was a perfect cross of spicy, sweet, cabbage and mix of veggies and crumbled meat. Voltzy claimed he served up over 800 gallons of soup each winter.

One of the joys of going to Voltzy’s was getting a sarcastic greeting from Voltzy.  Known for his one liners, verbal jabs, complaints, zingers and humor, it was truly just his way of making you feel welcome.

Over the past several years Voltzy has had some health issues, and in 2017 had to have 3 toes amputated, which caused his to shut down the business for a bit.  But he rallied and reopened, doubling up on the jabs, to make up for the time he missed.  But his health never quite rebounded, a few more issues and thenearlier this year his leg was amputated just under his knee. And today Voltzy took his last breath at Kettering Hospital, while his surrogate daughter Sammy held his hand.

Voltzy at the Grill

His social media sight quickly filled with tributes:

“I met VOLTZY aka Rick Volz at the Oktoberfest Dayton about 10 years ago. Ever since then he was good friend. After the grills turned off, and the spotlight was down, he was a humble, guy who had a tough road. He was a mans man, and absolutely hilarious.”  -Steve Milano, aka The Big Ragu, of Food Adventures, which ran for years on DMM

“Such sad news. The world just lost one hell of a person! Rest in Peace Buddy! When I see you again, you can ask me “I’ve been here for xxx long…..where the hell you been?”  – Lee Edwards

“The man was a Dayton institution. I will say Voltzy’s was my favorite place to go to get lunch, and that’s as much about Rick, if not more, than the wonderful food he made.”  – Scott Beckerman

“The world just lost a great one… Man I’ll miss his humor, passion and that smile he’d flash as he got ya with a good one liner.” – Kyle Mullins

“He was one of a kind and I always loved hearing him interact with his friends and customers. I’m glad he is no longer suffering, but he will be greatly missed throughout this community.” – Jennine Elizabeth

 

Voltzy- we’ll miss you!

 

Voltzy making his Cabbage Roll Soup

See more of our coverage of Voltzy over the years written by Steve Milano

800 Gallons of Soup at Voltzys!

Smart Mouths Love Food at Smart Aleck “Voltzy’s”

Get a Fresh Food Adventure at Voltzy’s

Wiley’s Wings Tenders and Fries Opens in Huber Heights

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Officially opening today at  2pm on Brandt Pike in Huber Heights, Wiley’s Wings Tenders and Fries, is the latest from the team that brought you Rapid Fired Pizza and Hot Head Burritos. With a simple menu featuring fresh never frozen wings, hand battered tenders and crispy french fries, garlicky Texas toast, and Pepsi products it’s is a quick option for a meal “where you can get amazing wings in 3 minutes or less,” according to owner Ray Wiley.

As you enter the restaurant you’re greeted by Wiley the mascot, directing you where to go. To the left if you need to order, or to the right to pick up your online order.  They’ve also designated 6 spots fo curbside delivery designated by cute  signs with sayings like “Winner Winner Fresh Chicken for Dinner” and “Good Wings Come To Those That Wait.”  Or perhaps you’ll choose to use the drive up window to order, according to co-owner Kelly Gray, that was one of the features that made WTF choose this location to launch their new concept. Gray also shared with us that one of her favorite things on the menu is their house made ketchup that has a little zip and is perfect with their crispy fries.

Owners Ray Wiley and Kelly Gray (both in orange) work the dining room.

 

Wiley’s WTF makes it easy to order-just pick a combo:

 

Then decide on a sauce or a rub and your order will be ready in about 3 minutes. Marketing Manager J Stanton suggested his favorite sauce, Sriracha Bourbon BBQ to accompany my first taste of the tenders. Kelly Gray likes the Buffalo Ranch, while founder Ray Wiley likes it hot with the pineapple ghost sauce.  Speaking of Wiley, he shared that featuring his name on the restaurant was not his idea, but rather his management teams, who he gives all the credit to for being incredibly dedicated to making this venture a success.

 

Some reviews we heard from attendees at the sneak peek last night:

“Tasty”
“The literal best Texas Toast I’ve ever had”
“I’ve got to be back soon to work my way through all the sauces”
“Definitely will make a return visit if I’m in the area!”
“I couldn’t finish my 6 piece combo- it’s a lot of food.”
“The coleslaw was delicious and we tried several sauces… all were amazing!”
“The Moonshine BBQ = SO good!”

If you make it out to Wileys WTF, let us know what you thought in the comments below.

Wiley’s Wings, Tenders, and Fries

6315 Brandt Pike
Huber Heights, OH 45424

937-236-3000

6 piece tender combo

Uncover the Clues and Solve This Virtual Murder Mystery

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Saint Anne’s Cheese Co is hosting a virtual murder mystery event this Saturday that will be available via zoom.  According to the owner of this virtual cheese business and education company, Annie Foos, she’d worked with this company to host a mystery dinner at her house and had such a great time doing it, she wanted to bring some fun into the doldrums of winter. So invite some friends or family (that are in your covid safe pod) over, open a bottle of wine and serve up some snacks and engage in an interactive mystery event brought to you on ZOOM. Enjoy the show, play detective and question the suspects in real time.

Synopsis of the show:

It was an evening of wine and St. Anne’s cheese at the Maize Valley Winery in the Ohio Valley. The occasion: a celebration of the winery’s tenth anniversary. Owner Todd Melee took great pride in pouring his world-famous Big Red Pecker, the wine with the rooster on the label that tickles the palates of wine connoisseurs everywhere. Over the past decade, his small operation had built a record of supplying a quality product, but Melee’s surly personality had produced more adversaries than advocates.

As the gathering broke up about midnight, Melee bade “farewell” to everyone and said he would stay around to turn out the lights. But the next morning, it became deadly obvious that someone had planned lights out for him. Melee’s lifeless body was found at the bottom of the stairs that lead to the oak casks in the wine cellar. Someone had put the cork on Melee and taken action that would squeeze the winery’s reputation.
You can assist the Ohio Valley Sheriff’s Department in solving this case. Join a dedicated cadre of super sleuths on Saturday, January 30th to investigate the homicide and to identify the killer lurking among the eight suspects. You’ll meet them online via Zoom, and even be able to question them to discover key facts. Reserve your spot TODAY. Space is limited and you won’t want to miss out on the exhilarating prospect of drinking it all in.
You’ll be competing with groups from across the country to solve the mystery, with about 30 different zoom links.  You’ll watch the first act of the show, then have a chance to go into break out rooms to question the suspects and then provide your teams verdict on the murderer. Then the entire group will go back to the main room and you’ll watch the conclusion of the play and see if you guessed right.

Ticket Links:

Whodunnit Zoom Event- Jan 30th @ 3pm EST. $40

Whodunnit Zoom Event- Jan 30th @ 6pm EST $50

Whodunnit Zoom Event- Jan 30th @ 9pm EST $45

DaytonMostMetro.com readers:
Use code Mystery5 for $5 off your purchase! 

You will receive an email with a link to the ZOOM event shortly before it begins.

Presented by murdermysteryparties.us and featuring St. Annes Cheese Co. and Ohio Wine Company.

Stop by The Ohio Wine Company at 1006 E. Dorothy Lane to pick up a party poison pack, highlighting some of the wine and cheese that will be featured in the zoom show.

 

RTA CEO To Retire after 45 Years of Public Transit Service

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From bus driver to executive of an urban transit system, Greater Dayton RTA’s CEO has spent his entire career in public service. After 45 years—15 of which were in Dayton—Mark Donaghy will retire, effective April 1, 2021.

 

Donaghy began his transit career in 1976 as a driver for the Omaha Public School system in Nebraska. At the time, the system was in turmoil as a federal court mandated busing of Black students to predominantly white schools in Omaha in order to desegregate schools. Donaghy was one of the first to drive a school bus for the new system as part of the desegregation process. Throughout his career he’s held various leadership positions at other transit agencies, including Columbia Transit, Manchester Transit Authority, Missoula Urban Transportation District, and the Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky, or TANK, where he eventually became CEO. He went to First Transit Inc. before joining Dayton RTA as CEO in 2006.

 

During his tenure, Donaghy successfully fought for equal access for bus service in Beavercreek, a battle which was the basis for the award-winning “Free to Ride” documentary produced by The Ohio State University’s Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity. He helped shepherd innovative partnership programs such as Dayton’s downtown circulator bus The Flyer, the LINK bike share program, and RTA Connect On-Demand where traditional service is limited.  One of his greatest achievements was the rebuild of Dayton’s electric trolley system through infrastructure upgrades and the creation of the new NexGen dual-mode trolley bus, which can run off-wire for 15 miles, expanding RTA’s electric bus service without increasing overhead wire.

 

“It has been a privilege to serve with many great employees, board members and stakeholders in the Dayton Region over the past 15 years,” Donaghy said. “I am proud of my 45 years of service in the transportation industry and have been fortunate to have worked in nearly every aspect of it, starting as a bus driver in 1976 in Omaha and as a CEO for more than 30 years. The Dayton region is a special place where the public and private sectors collaborate in a determined effort to improve the quality of life for every citizen and being part of that regional infrastructure has been the highlight of my career. RTA is well prepared to serve the Miami Valley for generations to come as it has for more than 100 years thanks to the collective efforts of our employees, board of trustees and our regional partners.”

RTA’s board of trustees thanks Donaghy for his service, especially during the unprecedented COVID-19 health crisis, in which Donaghy maintained full service levels to ensure essential workers could get to their jobs, and RTA employees maintained employment.

“Mark has been an extraordinary leader in extraordinary times. Recently, Mark has kept access to reliable transportation available through an unprecedented health crisis, devastating tornadoes, a horrific mass shooting, and civil unrest,” said David Williamson, president of the RTA board of trustees. “Mark championed expanded service for employees to get to work, for the underserved, and for innovative ideas like The Flyer. The Board of trustees fully appreciates Mark’s resolve to keep the buses running and his firm and steady hand on the wheel. He will be missed.”

The board will recognize Donaghy’s extraordinary achievements for public transit at their regularly-scheduled meeting set for Tuesday, March 2.

Downtown Dayton Retail Lab Accepting Applications

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After a successful first-round of the Retail Lab small business accelerator program, The Downtown Dayton Partnership (DDP), along with its small business development partners, is inviting business owners to apply to the second session of the program. The Retail Lab is an intensive 12-week experience for business owners aiming to launch or grow their first-floor business in downtown Dayton, and applications will be accepted through February 3.

 

The Retail Lab has two main goals: To continue energizing downtown with vibrant storefronts, and provide a supportive pathway into the downtown market for emerging first-floor entrepreneurs, especially women-owned and minority-owned businesses.

“As we emerge from the pandemic and the impacts of the economic shutdown, there is an opportunity to take new business ideas and budding entrepreneurs and show them the support network available in our community to grow or launch their own commercial ventures,” said Sandra K. Gudorf, president of the DDP.

 

The Downtown Dayton Retail Lab will provide a series of workshops, pitch events, and pilot opportunities that connect the participating businesses to the people, ideas, capital, and resources that will help them thrive and grow in downtown Dayton. Weekly workshops will be held virtually and include facilitated instruction, work sessions with mentors, and occasional in-person activities with appropriate health precautions.

Eligible businesses include boutiques, shops, cafes, studios, and restaurants – any consumer business that adds to the vibrancy of downtown’s sidewalks. Applicants should either be located in downtown Dayton or aiming to launch downtown in the next 6 to 12 months. Interested small business owners can find more information, including the program application, at DowntownDayton.org/retail-lab. Applications for the Downtown Dayton Retail Lab will be accepted through February 3, with the program slated to begin later in February.

 

The Retail Lab leverages support from many business resource partners including The Entrepreneurs Center, the Miami Valley Small Business Development Center, Five Rivers MetroParks – 2nd Street Market, Launch Dayton, and The Hub at the Dayton Arcade.

“In 2020, the first cohort of 11 Retail Lab participants experienced how a community of entrepreneurs and resources can take an initial business plan to the next level of success, and we look forward to providing that same opportunity to a new group of Dayton entrepreneurs,” said AJ Ferguson, project manager with the DDP and coordinator of the Retail Lab program.

“The Retail Lab experience has given our business the necessary tools to make sure we are set up to succeed, and the opportunity to work with other businesses and collaborate on ways we can support each other,” said Vanessa Llyod, a previous Retail Lab participant and owner of A+ Cleaners in downtown Dayton.

 

Participation in the 12 week program is provided at no cost, and in addition to the support businesses receive through the workshops, each participant is eligible for up to $2,500 in professional services from creative, legal, and financial firms to advance their business.

 

Questions about the Retail Lab should be directed to AJ Ferguson, [email protected], or call (937) 681-9793.

 

Drink Your Way To Winning with BrewDog and Mudlick Tap House

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Kick off the New Year with a chance to win… and all you have to do is drink beer!!

Mudlick Tap House is currently featuring three craft beers from BrewDog’s Brewery in Columbus and if you drink them, you’ll have a chance to win and overnight stay at the Dog House Hotel in Columbus with a a $100 gift card to the brewery!
Currently on tap are:
Elvis Juice– an IPA with gigantic grapefruit notes with orange and pine on a caramel malt base.
Lost Lager– a dry-hopped Pilsner made with classic German Saphir hops, giving vibrant citrus and stone-fruit notes. Built from Bavarian yeast, it has a crisp clean taste.
Jet Black Heart– a milk stout loaded with oatmeal. Cacao, roasted coffee and berry fruits linger in its deepest darkest depths.
In order to participate get a punch card, drink all three featured BrewDog beers by February 16th and turn in your punch card to be entered into the drawing!
135 East Second St.
Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 895-4066
Tues- Fri 4-10pm
Sat 11am – 10pm
Sun 11am – 9pm

Salar Hosts 5 Course Wine Dinner

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Chef Margot presents Salar’s monthly wine dinner this Wed, Jan 13th at 6pm. Kara from WineTrends will lead guests through a five-course wine dinner, dine-in or carryout,  featuring some of Salar’s favorite wines from 2020

Course 1: Au Bon Climat Pinot Gris/ Pinot Blanc paired with baby spinach and toasted bacon salad and a warm, sautéed mushroom vinaigrette.

Course 2: Aerena Chardonnay served with curried mozzarella cheese stuffed turkey meatballs and jasmine rice.

Course 3: Ferrari Carano Siena and Coq au Vin accompanied by creamy polenta cooked with goat cheese and thyme.

Course 4: Torres Familia Gran Coronas Cabernet to enjoy with Pistachio encrusted lamb lollipops on a bed of parsnip purée.

Course 5: JCB 69 Sparkling Rosé and lemon pie.

Tickets run $89 per person which includes tax & gratuity and can be reserved online.Both dine-in and carryout guests will select the same ticket. Make sure you select dine-in or carryout from the drop-down before checking out.

2021 Ale Trail Passports Now Available

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Created back in 2017, the Dayton Ale Trail passport is a collaboration between Miami Valley breweries that encourage the visitation and support of our local breweries.  Each year Cerevisaphiles (aficionado of beers and ales) get a stamp upon visiting each local establishment and have until 12/31/2021 to collect 27 stamps and exchange their passport in for the annual prize at the Yellow Cab Tavern.

 

Past Ale Trail Prizes have included howlers and bar signs:



This year 15,000 passports have been printed (more will be printed if needed) and the following breweries are included:

For more info, check out the Facebook.com/DaytonAleTrail.

Venecia Italian Restaurant Opens in Kettering

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Kettering’s newest restaurant opened this weekend at 1980 E Whipp Rd in the location that was formerly McGillicutty’s Pub from 1996- 2o18.  It’s a family business run by Arsim and Tina Aliu and other members of their family, which will be serving up lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.

The inside of the restaurant has been opened up with the old bar that dominated McGillicutty’s gone.  Tables were Covid 19 spaced to over 6 feet apart with booths lining the outer walls. We were told sound system and tv’s will be installed next week.

 

Featuring appetizers like meatballs and sausages, and garlic rolls, a variety of pizzas, pastas and calzones, the menu prices are quite reasonable and the serving sizes are quite large. Serving up Coke products, the liquor license has been applied for and they are just awaiting state approval.

Chicken Marsala

sausage and mushroom pizza

Trio Pasta- ravioli, stuffed shells and manicotti.

 

Venecia Italian Restaurant
1980 E Whipp Road
Kettering, OH 45440

Tues- Sat 11am – 10pm

 

 

Local Restaurants Hibernating this January

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January is traditionally the slowest month of the year for restaurants. Hibernating allows operators the chance to save the money it costs to operate. A restaurant in hibernation saves money on payroll, on utilities, on inventory. Once operations are halted, the costs of staying open become fixed, and include things like rent and paying anyone still left on the team.

Ashley’s Pastry Shop
will be closed until Thursday, January 7th.

Bear Creek Donuts
See you when we reopen on Friday 1/8

Mamma DiSalvos
Will be closed through Jan 12th – reopening at 4pm Jan 13th

 

Roma’s Pizza & Pasta
We will be returning on January 11th with regular business hours.

Roost Modern Italian 

Our team is going to take a few days to recharge and we’ll reopen on Friday, Jan 8th

Texas Beef & Cattle Company

We want to share with you all that we will be closed for the month of January. It is notoriously an extremely slow month, add in Covid and we’re looking forward to a little mental rest.

The Winds Cafe
Our tentative reopening date is January 19 for the Winds Wine Cellar and February 2nd for the Winds Cafe.

Over 50 New Restaurants Opened in the Miami Valley in 2020

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We can all agree that this past year has been a tough one in so many ways, but it’s also brought us a lot of tasty new dining options.  Here are the highlights of new openings in the Miami Valley this year:

Opened in January 2020

Heroes Pizza House
92 Edgebrook Dr, Springboro

The Buehler’s opened this affordable family friendly business with on Jan 3rd, featuring pizza, subs, steak sandwiches and a full bar.

Which Wich Superior Sandwiches
2820 Centre Drive, Suite 200, Beavercreek
This franchise is the 2nd opened by Gauravi Jani and her four sisters and features  an“Ultimate BLT,” Philly Cheesesteak, Superfood Wich, Meatball Grinder, Cobb Salad Wrap, Reuben and Gyro.

Winans RiverScape
221 N. Patterson Boulevard, Dayton

Owner Laurie Reiser partnered with Boosalis Baking to bring in fresh baked goodies each day, to go with their chocolates,coffee drinks, frozen hot chocolate, lattes and smoothes.

Deg’s Chicken 
2727 Fairfield Commons Food Court, Beavercreek
Tender, juicy, and flame grilled chicken complemented by our wide variety of sides.

Dragon City
1048 S Smithville Rd Dayton,
Reopened after a  fire

Back Home Tavern & Table 
1151 Brown St, Dayton
Featuring upscale comfort and bar foods, live music on the weekends and serving brunch-  Breakfast nachos, Huckleberry Stuffed French Toast, Avocado Toast from 10am-3pm M-F, 11am-3pm Sat and 12-3pm Sun!

Opened in February 2020

Fratelli’s Famiglia Ristorante
42 N. Fountain Ave, Springfield
Home cooked meals from family recipes in a historical building in downtown Springfield

Junior’s Pizza, Wings & Subs
808 Wilmington Pike, Kettering
A family oriented restaurant in casual setting with TVs, jukebox and a cool KISS pinball machine.

Sassy Acai Bowls
5707 Bigger Road, Kettering
Healthy, fruity, fresh sassy- Sandwich, bowls, smoothies & yogurt

Verona’s Pizza
18 E. Franklin St, Bellbrook
Pizza, Pasta Dishes, Calzones, 12” Subs, Salad, Appetizers, Dessert

Xuan Vietnamese-Thai Cuisine
4770 Airway, Dayton
Serving fresh, delicious, authentic Thai and Vietnamese food including Vegan to our customers; fresh-baked handmade Vietnamese sandwiches (banh mi). Catering, dine-in, carry-out.

Opened in March 2020:

Dayton Street Eats
5993 Bigger Road, Kettering
From food truck to bricks and mortar, this carry out eatery features
sandwiches like  their “Mother-In-Law,” chicken salad with grapes, celery and onions served on toasted French bread, salads & desserts

Roma’s Pizza & Pasta
282 W. Central Ave, Springboro
Opened just as the pandemic began, 9 months later and they’ve sold almost 20,000 pizzas.

Sojourners Brewstillery
8150 Washington Village Drive Centerville
Craft Beer, Seltzers and Sodas! Family Friendly and indoor games for everyone!

Cafe Terra Mediterranean Cuisine
8351 N. Main St, Englewood
Mediterranean kitchen offering an eclectic mix of flavors from the Aegean region offering traditional homemade recipes with a twist.

Opened in April 

Donatos Pizza
5120 N. Main St, Dayton

Opened in May 

Bourbon Chicken Restaurant
100 N. James H. McGee Blvd, Dayton
Featuring chicken, burgers, tacos, shrimp baskets and more

La Michoacana #10
6220 Chambersburg Road, Huber Heights
The store offer fresh fruits and vegetables, an extensive selection of meats, Latin-American groceries, and serves up authentic Mexican dishes in the restaurant.

Tavolo Modern Italian
101 S. Ohio Ave, Sidney
A modern Italian restaurant serving up
high-quality meals curated by locally renowned Chef Keith Taylor.

Opened in June

Fino Sur Peruvian Street Food
101 E Alex Bell Rd, Centerville
Alberto Arenas brings delicious Peruvian dishes and culture with the opening of this fast casual eatery.  Enjoy skewers of chicken or pork, grilled salmon, quinoa salads, empanadas and yuca frittes all served with a variety of sauces.

Bibibop
5225 Cornerstone North Blvd, Centerville
The 2nd Miami Valley location for this  Korean-inspired fast casual that encourages wellbeing through healthy eating and an active, balanced lifestyle.

Opened in July

The Cookie Joint
1106 Brown St, Dayton
Fresh baked to cure all of your Cookie Cravings, only open for curbside pick up or delivery

EO Burgers
520 Miamisburg Centerville Rd.Washington Township
After 10 years at The Greene on Wed, July 29th they opened for carry-out, and delivery from noon, but sadly never got up to speed and closed in October.

Raising Cane
7841  Old Troy Pike, Huber Heights
Known for their chicken finger meals with Texas Toast.

Red Berry
14 N Market Street,  Troy
Serves breakfast classics like biscuits and gravy and egg skillets, as well as lunch favorites like BLTs, soup and salads

Say Yes Cakes
2920 Wayne Ave, DaytonThis mother/daughter run bakery is quickly earning a great reputation with custom made cakes, cupcakes, and other sweet treats.

Greenfire Fresh
965 W. Main St, Tipp City
Chef Rob Scott had worked for Art Chin and eventually bought the business and rebranded.

Barra Jalisco
105 S Second St,  Miamisburg
Serving up authentic Mexican food

Condado Tacos
4482 Glengarry Drive, Beavercreek
They describe themselves as a taco joint with a margarita problem.

Old Dayton Pizza at Riverside Hideaway
3490 Old Troy Pike, Riverside
Fun time sports bar/Italian Pub …where locally sourced shenanigans pair with pizza…

Opened in August

Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
2564 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Miami Twnsp
Seafood concept featuring Cajun-inspired cuisine with bold flavors and a saucy attitude!

Chopstick Chinese Restaurant
8146 N Main St, Dayton

Owner Jimmy Lin  Grand and his crew serve up fresh, flavorful meals six days a week.

Massaman Thai Cuisine
467 Patterson Rd
Pakawan “Fon” Christman, who formerly owned Siam Pad Thai, has upgraded the environment at this new space and kept all the flavorful thai dishes we’ve grown to love.

Fantasma Taco
800 S. Patterson, Dayton
This taco shop operates Thursday – Saturday out of the Midtown Ghostlight Cofffe  serving up street Inspired & mod Tacos with all orders placed online for delivery or curbside pick up.

Opened in Sept

Home Sweet Home Cafe
320 W National Road, Englewood
Brent & Jamie Herzog specialized in home cooking
featuring aone pound burger Home Sweet Home burger, a pastry bar and more

Salt Block Biscuit Company
115 E. Third St, Dayton
Chef Justin Mohler has opened a bakery that will specialize in open-faced biscuit entrees for breakfast and lunch and desserts

Chaffee’s Brewhouse 
15 S. 2nd Street, Tipp City
A neighborhood hangout spot in downtown Tipp City. Full bar, craft beer, craft cocktails, mocktails, wine, and charcuterie boards.

Crust & Company
101 S Fountain Ave, Springfield
Serving  Roman style “pizza alla pala” or “pizza on the paddle”. It is a rectangle shaped crust that has a crispy bottom and a soft airy interior topped with fresh ingredients like salami, prosciutto, and fresh mozzarella.

Gravity Burger
15 Greene Blvd, Beavercreek
With a very simple menu, they offer four burgers, fries and soda.

Happy Asian Mart
2801 S Dixie Dr, Kettering

Hammel House Restaurant & B&B 
121 S. Main St, Waynesville
Come-as-you-are Casual Gourmet

CATFISH Fish & Chicken & Shrimp
6020 Old Troy Pike

Opened in October

Loose Ends Brewing
890 South Main Street, Centerville
A mix of craft beer and artisan food striving to bring the community together with the perfect brewery experience.

Sweet Adaline’s Bakery
29 East Main Street, Tipp City
Breads, pastries and more

Fifty5 Rivers Cold Brew
644 N Broad St, Fairborn
Ready to drink cold brew coffee and tea, plus cold brew coffee bean blends and DIY cold brew home kits

City BBQ
6549 Miller Lane, Dayton
The first of the chain to feature a drive through, it’s the 3rd area location serving up smoked meat and sides.

Yumi Boba Tea
170 Woodman Dr
Using fresh fruits and all natural ingredients to make tasty drinks

Burgers and More
965 W. Main St, Tipp City
A food delivery service offering gourmet burgers with contact-free carryout, curbside pickup and delivery on Sunday and Monday

Opened in November

Agave & Rye
2 N. Market St, Troy
If you enjoy creative, delicious food, and an endless selection of Bourbon, Tequila and Craft Cocktails, this is the place for you!

Miguel’s Taco’s
101 Corry St, Yellow Springs
After a very successful food truck, they’ve moved into a bricks & mortar location. Everything made fresh and on the spot with a different special every day of the week!

Lefty’s Eats & Espresso
29 E. Main St, Xenia
A 2nd location has joined the original Fairborn spot that offers sandwiches & salads, pasta’,  full Breakfast with unique and healthy options and pies!

Fu Mon Lau
2008 Miamisburg-Centerville Road
Authentic Chinese cuisine, specializing in Cantonese style cooking in an upscale, modern space

Warehouse 4 Cafe and Bake Shop
3131 Wilmington Pike, Kettering
2nd location for this community coffee shop serving rich espresso & coffee brews, house-made baked goods, deli-style lunch sandwiches, and friendly service.

 

Opened in Dec

Elsa’s Boro Cantina
774 N Main St, Springboro
The home of the Bad Juan has opened it’s sixth Mexican restaurant and sports bar with  27 tv’s for your viewing pleasure. Serving burritos, wings and pizza.

Third Perk Coffee House and Wine Bar
46 E 3rd St Dayton
Juanita Darden’s new location offers coffee and a boutique wine selection in a friendly sophisticated atmosphere.

Restaurants & Bars We Lost in 2020

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As we bid good riddance to a year we’ll never miss, we say a fond farewell to many Miami Valley eateries. The following restaurants and bars shut their doors for good in 2020, some because of COVID-19 and others for various reasons.

Closed in January 2020
Pretzel Fest & Popcorn Pizzazz shop- Fairfield Commons
Santa Clara Juicery- but the good news is you can still get your juice delivered by door dash
Edible Arrangements Springboro
Corleone’ Pizza
Bar Louie’s-  at The Greene & Austin Landing
Citilites at the Schuster Center

Closed in February 2020

Areas & Co- Kettering
The Growler Pub & Grub
Kettering LaRosa’s
Third Perk – opened a new location at Third Street today!

Closed in March 2020

Double Deuce Tavern & Family Pizzeria–  recently announced  Modern Food & Gas will open at this site.
Rahn’s Artisan Breads  at the 2nd Street Market-  high costs and failing equipment forced this closure
El Greco’s Pizza Villa- the owners just were ready to retire
Ruby Tuesday, C’ville-  closed 185 restaurants, filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Closed in April  2020

Greek Isle Deli –  lack of the next generation of family interest and covid
Deroma Italian Restaurant

 

Closed in May 2020

Seasons Bistro in Springfield
Zombie Dogz- but the Food Truck came back to life
Airway Kitchen- chose not to renew lease
Stacked Pickle- this Indy chain closed all it’s locations

Closed in June 2020

Corner Kitchen- tough to raise a family and run this small business, owners opted to close
Basils on Market (Piqua)
Ruby Tuesday- Miller Lane- closed 185 restaurants, filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Closed in July 2020

Crafted & Cured- plans are under way for the Dayton Arcade in 2021
Grist Provisions- renovations are now taking place on a new location on Fifth St in the former Third Perk
Wayback Burgers at the Fairfield Common Mall
Panera Bread- near the Dayton Mall- a new location is under construction
Lee’s Ltd. Tenders & Dips on Brown Street just never took off
Logan’s Roadhouse- Dayton Mall and Troy – chain closed 261 closed locations
Kilwins at The Greene

Closed in Aug 2020

Primanti Brothers – after much damage from the 2019 tornado, decision was made not to reopen
Buffalo Wild Wings in West Carrollton-
StuffedEnuff LLC closed location but still caters and does pop-ups at The Entrepreneurs Marketplace

Closed in Sept 2020

Bar 145-  due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Closed in Oct 2020

EO Burgers- opening in July, just couldn’t build enough momentum during pandemic to stay open
Mila’s Suburban Café-unable to renew lease- hoping for a new location

Closed in Nov 2020

Golden Corral – never reopened due to the Covid-19 pandemic
LaRosa’s Englewood – covid 19 & expiration of lease

Closed in Dec 2020

Arepas & Co-downtown location will close 12/31/20
due to inability to renegotiate lease – but says to look for future
news

While we’ll miss many of these restaurants, 2020 was also a record year of new restaurants opening, we’ll publish that list tomorrow.