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Another 20 Reasons I Love Dayton, OH

March 30, 2016 By Guest Contributor

This guest post comes to us from Elizabeth Caraway,  a Dayton blogger perhaps better known as Super Veggie Mom,  who shares health and wellness information, recipes that have worked for her, tips about saving money, and angst over parenting struggles. She’s an Air Force veteran, former NASM-certified personal trainer, and a distance runner with almost a dozen half-marathons under her Adidas.  

DSC_8849 copy

Hartman Rock Garden in Springfield, OH

Almost two years ago, I published my original “40 Reasons I Love Dayton, OH” list. If you haven’t read that one yet, check it out first; otherwise, you’ll be wondering why obvious reasons like low cost-of-living, the Air Force Museum, and exceptional area parks are absent from this list. Now, though, I’ve had another couple years to get to know the Dayton area better and I am happier than ever that we have settled here. We were considering a move a few months ago, and I am so happy we decided against it. The longer I spend here, the more places and events I learn about, deepening my appreciation for the area. I’ve found that the people who complain about it are invariably the people who don’t take advantage of all there is to see and do.

As with my original list, I have tried to keep places to visit within a one-hour drive of Dayton; otherwise this would be a list of reasons to love Ohio.

In no particular order, here are another 20 reasons I love our area:

1. Hartman Rock Garden, in Springfield, is a stunning example of American folk art that I have affectionately dubbed the “Folk Art LEGOLand village.”

2. Urban Krag Climbing Center has 8,ooo sq ft of vertical terrain of varying heights for both advanced and beginner climbers.

3. The newly built Rose Music Center at the Heights brings in entertainment like Vince Gill and Gladys Knight.

4. Amazing charities (and their equally amazing volunteers and donors) like Shoes 4 the Shoeless, which provides new socks and shoes to area kids in need

5. Idle-Hour Ranch in Troy, provides sanctuary and care to more than 200 animals and is open to the public for tours.

6. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, about 45 min away, is an amazing outdoor sculpture park and also has a 10,000 sq ft museum of Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Etruscan sculpture thousands of years old.

7. The Dayton Maker Fest encourages a collaborative DIY community in the Dayton area by showcasing exploration and tinkering.

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Dayton Maker Fest showcases exciting tech

8. In addition to the larger performing arts theaters, Dayton has fantastic smaller venues like Black Box Improv Theater and the Playground Theater.

9. Gem City Comic Con in downtown Dayton brings together artistic talent, inspires the imagination, and encourages creative cosplay.

10. Miamisburg Mound Park is the largest conical earthwork of its kind in the United States and served as a major Native American burial site hundreds of years ago.

11. Although I included “festivals” in my original list, I truly feel the Ohio Renaissance Festival deserves its own shout-out due to its size (100 daily shows, 135 booths) and duration (7 weekends).

12. The Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, an internationally recognized group of performers

13. A home for basketball fans with the UD Flyers and the First Four at UD Arena

14. TechFest, held at Sinclair Community College, offers free STEM family fun.

15. Hot air balloon companies that offer you the opportunity (and adventure) to see the area from a new vantage point

16. Chateau Laroche (Loveland Castle) in Loveland and the Piatt Castles in West Liberty and offer tours to learn more about their fascinating histories.

17. Nationally ranked health care

18. The Dayton Chess Club, in existence since 1957, offers the opportunity to stretch your mental muscles and enjoy yourself at the same time.

19. The impressive Dayton Masonic Center was completed over a 2-year, 9-month period by 450 workers in 1928 and hosts numerous tours and events, including the Festival on the Hill.

20. The Dayton Dutch Lions, a soccer team founded in 2009, which has experienced tremendous growth and success over the last several years

I still haven’t hit on everything–multiple water parks, beautiful houses of worship for the four major religions, abundant horseback riding opportunities, the Korean War Memorial, the 9/11 memorial, etc…..I could go on. I am in love with this area.

Incidentally, the most common suggestion from people for future lists was specific parks. I listed “Five Rivers Metroparks and city and county parks” in my original list because honestly, there are just TOO MANY amazing, gorgeous parks to list them individually. But yes, Wegerzyn, and Glen Helen, and Charleston Falls, and all the others around here are absolutely fantastic, and one of my favorite things about living in the Miami Valley is the abundance of parks and natural spaces.

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Elizabeth Caraway, Super Veggie Mom

Sally Field’s DORIS Soars! Hank Williams Biopic Opens Friday at THE NEON!

March 30, 2016 By Jonathan McNeal

I SAW DMMHello Everyone,

Many thanks to everyone who came out to see HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS this weekend. The response was terrific, and DORIS will certainly stick around. If you’re a Terrence Malick fan (or a fan of Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett or Natalie Portman) and you still need to see KNIGHT OF CUPS, Thursday will be your last chance to see it at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open the new Hank Williams biopic – I SAW THE LIGHT – featuring an incredible central performance by Tom Hiddleston.

Synopsis for I SAW THE LIGHT: “I SAW THE LIGHT tells the story of the iconic, tormented singer-songwriter Hank Williams who revolutionized country music with his raw charisma, haunting voice and original songs, most of which are considered American standards today and have been recorded many times over by pop, rock and country artists alike. Hank Williams (Tom Hiddleston) emerged from the local Alabama music scene after World War II. Wife Audrey (Elizabeth Olsen) was desperate to sing by his side despite being of lesser talent, which fueled an extremely turbulent home life.” (Sony Classics) Stephen Hubbard of ABC-Nashville wrote, “Not since Sissy Spacek portrayed Loretta Lynn as an actor inhabited a legend like Tom Hiddleston playing Hank Williams.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jc2TEsl7vC8

We’re only a week away from THE DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL, and this year’s selections look like a winning line-up! The fest begins in early April with screenings and speakers all around town. Here’s a list of films that will screen at THE NEON:
Thursday, April 7 – 7:15pm – ATOMIC FALAFEL
Sunday, April 10 – 7:15pm – THE LAST MENTSCH
Tuesday, April 12 – 9:30am – GETT: THE TRIAL OF VIVIANE AMSALEM
Tuesday, April 12 – 7:15pm – BORROWED IDENTITY
Thursday, April 14 – 7:15pm – APPLES FROM THE DESERT
Sunday, April 17 – 5:20pm – MAKING MORNING STAR
Sunday, April 17 – 7:15pm – DOUGH
Advanced tickets are available on the festival’s official site.

On Wednesday, April 20 at 7:30, “Go Wild for Earth Month at the WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL presented by Aveda and the SierraClub. The evening will be a celebration of wilderness and waterways as we take a cinematic tour of rivers, lakes, oceans and the individuals exploring, enjoying, and protecting them. Over 15 films spanning the globe highlight why our waterways should be wild.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $10 each in advance, and they can be purchased via this LINK. If tickets remain, they will be sold one hour before the event at our box office for $12 each. All proceeds benefit the Sierra Club.

On Monday, April 25 at 7:30, Gathr Films along with Tricia Rau-Hammond will present a one-time screening of the new documentary MILK. “Through an intimate and artistic lens, MILK brings a universal perspective on the politics, commercialization and controversies surrounding birth and infant feeding over the canvas of stunningly beautiful visuals and poignant voices from around the globe. Inspiring, informative, provocative and sensitive, MILK celebrates bringing a new life into this world with a strong call to action and reflection.” (taken from Press Notes) In addition to the screening, the evening will feature a raffle of prizes from Luna Blue’s Boutique. Advanced tickets must be purchased on the Gathr site by following this LINK. If tickets remain, they will be available at our box office one hour before the screening.

Next Friday (April 8), we’re slated to open DEMOLITION – the new film from Jean Marc Vallee (director of WILD and DALLAS BUYERS CLUB). It stars Jake Gyllenhaal & Naomi Watts, and it was the Opening Night Film at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. I think many of you will love it!

We hope to see you soon!
Thanks for your continued support,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Monday, March 28 – Thursday, April 7:

KNIGHT OF CUPS (R) 1 Hr 58 Min
Monday – Thursday (March 28-31): 3:00, 5:30, 8:00
FINAL DAY – March 31!

HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS (R) 1 Hr 35 Min
Monday – Thursday (March 28-31): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Friday & Saturday (April 1 & 2): 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday (April 3): 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Wednesday (April 4-6): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30
Thursday (April 7): 3:00, 5:15

I SAW THE LIGHT (R) 2 Hrs 3 Min
Friday & Saturday (April 1 & 2): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:30
Sunday (April 3): 1:00, 4:00, 7:00
Monday – Thursday (April 4-7): 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL
Thursday (April 7): ATOMIC FALAFEL (NR) – 7:15

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
April 8 – DEMOLITION (Opening Night film from TIFF)
April ? – REMEMBER
April 22 – MILES AHEAD (shot in Cincinnati & Dayton)
April ? – THE DARK HORSE
April ? – KRISHA
May 6 – SING STREET
May 13 – LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
May 27 – THE MEDDLER
June 10 – MAGGIE’S PLAN
June 17 – DARK HORSE

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton Tagged With: avid, Dayton, demolition, doris, downtown, hello my name is, i saw the light, jake gyllenhaal, jean marc vallee, jewish film festival, luna blue's boutique, milk, movie times, ohio, sally field, showtimes, Sierra Club, The Neon, Tom Hiddleston, tricia rau-hammond, wild and scenic film festival

Mystery Monday – March 28, 2016

March 28, 2016 By Tom Gilliam

Welcome to Week 9 of Mystery Mondays.  The answer to Week Eight’s Mystery Photo is: Orville Wright’s statue as part of the full scale stainless steel replica of the Wright Brothers’ 1905 flyer at RiverScape MetroPark‘s Dayton Inventors River Walk in Downtown Dayton. I took this photo on February 1, 2016.

DMM Mystery Monday-8

We congratulate our randomly drawn winner Heather Leppla of McPherson Town! Rapid Fired Pizza certificates are coming your way!

Here’s some information about the 1905 Wright Flyer replica from Five Rivers MetroParks.

2016-2-1 1905 Wright Flyer

The full scale stainless steel replica of the Wright Brothers’ 1905 flyer, the one in which Orville claimed the brothers really learned to fly, was created for RiverScape by Alabama artist Larry Godwin. The flyer is poised in mid-take-off with Wilbur at the controls and Orville looking over his shoulder at his brother from the ground. Wilbur and Orville owned a bicycle shop during the time they developed their flying machine, and it was the box for a bicycle tube that led to their success where others had failed. Wilbur held the small rectangular box, open at each end, and twisted it. In that movement he imagined “wing-warping,” the concept they applied to control the plane in the air. A series of quotes in the pavement beneath the flyer reveal the brothers’ consuming fascination with flight and their unbending persistence that led to their success as the inventors of the heavier-than-air flying machine.

We challenge you to tell us where in the Dayton area this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:

http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week Nine:

DMM Mystery Monday-9

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Dayton Ohio, daytongram, daytonmostmetro, mystery mondays, photo contest, Photography, Rapid Fired Pizza, Tom Gilliam

3 Places to “Hop to” on the Adult Easter Weekend Trail

March 24, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Adrienne’s White Rabbit Lounge in Centerville

Adults need a break too.  Kids can’t have all the fun this Easter.  Today, Food Adventures suggests 3 Dayton area spots to go rabid.. errr rabbit on this weekend.  They each have something in common.  Can you guess what?

Let’s hop to it…..

 

— ADRIENNE’S WHITE RABBIT LOUNGE:  This place is sure to be a future feature on “Dive Bar Tuesday” with Brian Petro.  Have you ever been to a bar, where the whole place is .. well the bar?  This is one of those places.  It is a no-nonsense watering hole.  It is a  drinking person’s bar.  The staff is friendly and the regulars are welcoming too.  The drink prices are very cheap and some of the canned beer specials are amazing.  Adrienne’s White Rabbit is located in a shopping center at 889 S. Main Street in Centerville.  It is a perfect place for a happy hour after a long work day.  Want a MUST DRINK this Easter weekend?  This time of year, they are known for a PEEP SHOT.  Yep, your shot may have a couple of the marshmallow bunny peeps hanging on the rim of the glass.  How is that for unwinding?  We suggest you start out your Friday evening here, this weekend….

 

Hairless Hare Brewery in Vandalia has some Great Beers

— HAIRLESS HARE BREWERY:  Good beer, brewed on site, is the hallmark for this Easter weekend stop at 738 W. National Rd in Vandalia.  The MUST DRINKS here are KICK BACK KOLSCH, AMERICAN ALE, BELGIAN HARE, T-DAWG AMBER ALE and SHADY RIVER WHEAT.  Owners Matt Harris, Mike Legg and brewmaster Tony Dawes push the flavor envelope every month with new creations.  The Hairless Hare also has some MUST EATS, the PIZZA.  Homemade dough and premium toppings like salmon, are the reason these pizzas are unforgettable.

Speaking of unforgettable, do we have one for you, featuring Hairless Hare beers…. Chef House, Hungry Jax and the Big Ragu are excited for an upcoming Food Adventure dinner on April 1st at Company 7 BBQ featuring 5 food courses and 4 Hairless Hare Beers.  Did you know you get all that and tip included for $25? Tickets are pre sale only and available at this LINK.  Get your seat before they sell out !

 

— BUNNY’S HASTY TASTY PANCAKE HOUSE:  Ok, this is The Big Ragu’s entry, so humor him.  Bunny’s Hasty Tasty Pancake House at 3509 Linden Ave. is a Dayton icon.  For the last 64 years, this place has been a staple in the Miami Valley.  From the waitress BETTY who has worked there since 1974, to their comfort food, The Hasty Tasty Pancake House is one of a kind.  We suggest you hit this place Saturday morning or Saturday 9pm and get PANCAKES as the MUST EAT, to soak up the weekend alcohol from the other 2 places.  Want a different route?  Another MUST EAT deal is the Friday night all you can eat fish fry for $8.25.

 

So there you go, 3 stops on the Adult Bunny Trail, this Easter weekend.  Drink up, eat up and don’t overdo or you may oversleep through the Easter egg hunt!

Are you a foodie?  Then Food Adventures is the Dayton blog for you.  Each week, Food Adventures has a weekly article, featured right here on Dayton Most Metro.  You can also follow Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.  Original dinner events, original food photos, the most thorough food blog, original festivals, original website, original cooking classes, original articles, charity events, tv spots..

Bunnys Hasty Tasty Pancake House

All you want fish on Fridays Hasty Tasty 8.25

Pizza from Hairless Hare

Hairless Hare Beer Menu

Vandalia’s Brewery

Mike, Tony and Matt from Hairless Hare

The star of the Hasty Tasty Pancake House for 64 years

White Rabbit’s Peep Shot

Pour me a Hairless Hare Brew !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Dayton Dining, Food Adventures Tagged With: Big Ragu, bunny, chef house, Dayton, DaytonDining, Easter, Food Adventures, Hairless Hare, Hasty Tasty, hungry jax, White Rabbit

Sally Field’s DORIS & Star-Studded Malick Film Open Friday at THE NEON!

March 23, 2016 By Jonathan McNeal

rs_634x939-151119112930-634-hello-my-name-is-doris-posterHello Everyone,

We’re cleaning house this week! If you need to see HITCHCOCK/TRUFFAUT, MUSTANG, SON OF SAUL or LADY IN THE VAN, Thursday will be your last chance to catch them at THE NEON. On Friday, we’ll begin a film that many of you have expressed excitement about – HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS – starring Sally Field. In addition, we’ll begin a film by master filmmaker Terrence Malick with a star-studded cast – KNIGHT OF CUPS.

Synopsis for HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS: “When Doris Miller meets John Fremont, her company’s hip new art director, sparks fly-at least for Doris. In the cluttered house she shared with her late mother, Doris mines the Internet for information on her one-and-only, guided by the 13-year-old granddaughter of her best pal Roz. When Doris begins showing up at John’s regular haunts, she wins over his Williamsburg friends. Her new life brings Doris a thrilling perspective, but also creates a rift between her and her longtime friends and family, who believe she’s making a fool of herself over a guy half her age. Eager for all the experiences she has missed out on, Doris throws caution to the wind and follows her heart for the very first time.” VARIETY wrote, “A showstopper. Sally Field shines.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pdn-CcRypo8

Synopsis for KNIGHT OF CUPS: “Knight of Cups follows writer Rick (Christian Bale) on an odyssey through the playgrounds of Los Angeles and Las Vegas as he undertakes a search for love and self. Even as he moves through a desire-laden landscape of mansions, resorts, beaches and clubs, Rick grapples over complicated relationships with his brother (Wes Bentley) and father (Brian Dennehy). His quest to break the spell of his disenchantment takes him on a series of adventures with six alluring women: rebellious Della (Imogen Poots); his physician ex-wife, Nancy (Cate Blanchett); a serene model Helen (Freida Pinto); a woman he wronged in the past Elizabeth (Natalie Portman); a spirited, playful stripper Karen (Teresa Palmer); and an innocent Isabel (Isabel Lucas), who helps him see a way forward. Rick moves in a daze through a strange and overwhelming dreamscape — but can he wake up to the beauty, humanity and rhythms of life around him? The deeper he searches, the more the journey becomes his destination.” THE VILLAGE VOICE wrote, “KNIGHT OF CUPS might be both the most intoxicating film [Malik] has ever made-a deluge of gorgeous, kinetic images and sounds-and, in some ways, the most perplexing.” Click this LINK to visit the film’s official site.

It’s almost time for THE DAYTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL, and this year’s selections look like a winning line-up! The fest begins in early April with screenings and speakers all around town. Here’s a list of films that will screen at THE NEON:
Thursday, April 7 – 7:15pm – ATOMIC FALAFEL
Sunday, April 10 – 7:15pm – THE LAST MENTSCH
Tuesday, April 12 – 9:30am – GETT: THE TRIAL OF VIVIANE AMSALEM
Tuesday, April 12 – 7:15pm – BORROWED IDENTITY
Thursday, April 14 – 7:15pm – APPLES FROM THE DESERT
Sunday, April 17 – 5:20pm – MAKING MORNING STAR
Sunday, April 17 – 7:15pm – DOUGH
Advanced tickets are available on the festival’s official site.

On Wednesday, April 20 at 7:30, “Go Wild for Earth Month at the WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL presented by Aveda and the SierraClub. The evening will be a celebration of wilderness and waterways as we take a cinematic tour of rivers, lakes, oceans and the individuals exploring, enjoying, and protecting them. Over 15 films spanning the globe highlight why our waterways should be wild.” (taken from press notes) Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased in advance via this LINK. If tickets remain, they will be sold one hour before the event at our box office. All proceeds benefit the Sierra Club.

We hope to see you soon!
Thanks for your continued support!
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Tuesday, March 22 – Thursday, March 31:

THE LADY IN THE VAN (PG-13) 1 Hr 44 Min
Tuesday – Thursday (March 22-24): 3:00, 7:30
FINAL DAY – March 24!

SON OF SAUL (R) 1 Hr 47 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (March 22-24): 5:10
FINAL DAY – March 24!

HITCHCOCK/TRUFFAUT (PG-13) 1 Hr 19 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (March 22-24): 5:15
FINAL DAY – March 24!

MUSTANG (PG-13) 1 Hr 37 Min
Tuesday-Thursday (March 22-24): 3:15, 7:30
FINAL DAY – March 24!

HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS (R) 1 Hr 35 Min
Friday & Saturday (March 25 & 26): 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30
Sunday (March 27): 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20
Monday – Thursday (March 28-31): 3:00, 5:15, 7:30

KNIGHT OF CUPS (R) 1 Hr 58 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (March 25-27): 12:30, 3:00, 5:30, 8:00
Monday – Thursday (March 28-31): 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
(All Dates Are Tentative. Dates Often Move And Sometimes Disappear.)
April 1 – I SAW THE LIGHT
April 8 – DEMOLITION
April ? – REMEMBER
April 22 – MILES AHEAD (shot in Cincinnati & Dayton)
April ? – THE DARK HORSE
April ? – KRISHA
May 6 – SING STREET
May 13 – LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
May 27 – THE MEDDLER
June 10 – MAGGIE’S PLAN
June 17 – DARK HORSE

Filed Under: On Screen Dayton Tagged With: arthouse, Aveda, cate blanchett, christian bale, Dayton, demolition, hank williams, hello my name is doris, hitchcock, jewish film festival, knight of cups, lady in the van, maggie smith, mustang, Natalie Portman, Neon Movies, ohio, sally field, showtimes, Sierra Club, son of saul, terrence malick, The Neon, truffaut, wild and scenic

Mystery Monday – March 21, 2016

March 21, 2016 By Tom Gilliam

Welcome to Week 8 of Mystery Mondays.  The answer to Week Seven’s Mystery Photo is: The River Run Mural on the Great Miami River across from RiverScape MetroPark in Downtown Dayton. I took this photo on September 30, 2015.

DMM Mystery Monday-7

Artist Amy Deal’s River Run Mural across from RiverScape MetroPark in Downtown Dayton – September 30, 2015

With a record number of entries this week, we congratulate our randomly drawn winner Lacie Shepherd of Springboro! Rapid Fired Pizza certificates are coming your way!

The nearly 1,000 foot River Run Mural debuted in Fall 2015 on the almost 90 year old northern flood wall of the Great Miami River in advance of this year’s RiverScape River Run. Created by local artist Amy Deal, the mural was painted on the flood wall by the K12 & TEJAS Gallery. Read more about the River Run project here.

Artist Amy Deal's River Run Mural across from RiverScape MetroPark in Downtown Dayton - September 24, 2015

Artist Amy Deal’s River Run Mural across from RiverScape MetroPark in Downtown Dayton – September 24, 2015

Amy recently shared these thoughts with me about her creation.

“I included imagery that would relate to all ages and show off the health of our rivers. The imagery also reflects Dayton’s rich history. The crossed lines represent the Wright Flyer and the circles represent our history with the bicycle. The river is a wonderful location for healthy activity – running, skating, kayaking, rowing. The colors were chosen to work with all 4 seasons. They are exciting yet subtle enough that the wall is not constantly screaming in your face – more calming.”

“I love watching the water levels. I’ve had some friends comment that the kayaker is really kayaking today. I was initially worried that there would be a dirty water line after the water recesses, but it’s been fine. I can’t wait for the River Run this summer!”

We challenge you to tell us where in the Dayton area this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:

http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week Eight:

DMM Mystery Monday-8

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Dayton Ohio, daytongram, daytonmostmetro, mystery mondays, photo contest, Photography, Rapid Fired Pizza, Tom Gilliam

Dayton’s Chef Showdown Champ Named

March 20, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

There was sizzle, drizzle, sear and even a little bit of fire when nine of Dayton’s premiere Chef’s went head to head in a Chopped inspired “Chef Showdown” Saturday. With three qualifying rounds on Saturday, chefs had 20 minutes to turn a mystery basket with 4 ingredients into a winning dish at the Dayton Home and Garden Show at the Dayton Convention Center.z_20160319_078

On the Kroger stage, event emcee Jim Bucher helped introduce the mystery baskets, created by  event producer Lisa Grigsby, of Dayton Most Metro.   Basket one included  Lychee Nuts,  Chicken, canned  spinach and cranberry cinnamon goat cheese.  Chefs were able to supplement their appeizer with ingredients from the Kroger pantry.

The contest judges, brought in from Dayton Most Metro included: Kevin Rankin, Laura Rea, Duane Myers, Ann Roberts and Steve “Big Ragu” Milano

.

Local culinary fans packed the room where the competition took place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm respectively, and the results are in….

ROUND 1 WRAP UP: 

Chef Candace Rinke, from Hawthorn Grill won round one with her chicken appetizer on a pita triangle.  She barely edged out 2 other delicious chicken creations.  One from Chef David Glynn, of Dayton Country Club, who incorporated numerous ingredients into a large chicken dish, and Chef Aaron Braun of Meadowlark who wowed the judges with his bacon wrapped chicken and goat cheese.

Chef Rinke’s Winning Chicken on Pita Appetizer

 

ROUND 2 WRAP UP:

Chef Mariah Gahagan, from Lily’s Bistro was victorious in round 2 with a salmon dish that flowed with a perfect melody of flavor, from edge to edge with greens and avocados.  Close behind was Chef Richard Roberts, of De’Lish Cafe, who made a salmon pita appetizer with swiss cheese, and used a blow torch for a carmelized smoky flavor.  Chef Crystal Coppock, from Wheat Penny also made it a tight race, with her salmon seared on spinach, with bamboo shoots, but as timer buzzed she realized  her Tamarind sauce (one of the required ingredients), which was absolutely killer- according to the judges, didn’t make her plates.

 

ROUND 3 WRAP UP:

Scratch Catering owner Chef Matt Hayden took the winning honors in the final round in an epic battle that included a temporary flare up of flames.  Using scallops, Matt concocted a deep fried fritter (Indian Pakora) with an amazing Indian influenced Tandoori sauce.  Following close behind was Chef LeeAnne House, from HouseMade Sauces.  LeeAnne’s appetizer was a colorful combo of sauteed greens, peppers and veggies with scallops on bruschetta.  Also keeping the contest close was Chef Nathan Vance from Salar Restaurant, who

Round 2 of the Chef Showdown: Chef Gahagan, Chef Coppock and Chef Roberts

wowed the crowd with his unshakable concentration during the hectic round.  Nathan’s creation included placing the scallops over greens, with some sauteed veggie and a delicious sauce drizzle.

 

finalSUNDAY’S CHEF SHOWDOWN FINALS:

At 1pm today at the DAYTON HOME AND GARDEN SHOW at the Convention Center, the three advancing chefs met up for a final round of competition.  This time around they had 25 minutes to turn 5 mystery ingredients into an entree.  As the clock started, it was revealed that shrimp, black beans, asparagus, canned peaches and canned tomatoes were the base for the meal.

Just a few minutes into cooking Chef Mariah’s burner malfunctioned and Chef Matt left his station to assist here, and Chef Candice reached over to pull Chef Matt’s saute pan off the fire, so his food didn’t burn.  This sense of teamwork, even in the middle of a competition, just exemplifies the character of our local culinary community.SHowdown Finalists

Judges Ann Roberts, a local foodie, Alexis Larsen of the DAI and writer for Dayton Daily News and Executive Chef Don Warfe of Christopher’s spent a good 10 minutes, tasting and deliberating and commenting on the expertise of the entrees from all the chefs.  Warfe, who spent time on tv for Gordon Ramsey’s” Kitchen Nightmares” questioned the chefs about the use of ingredients and complimented the flavors of the food.  Larsen shared she “was impressed with the ability of the trio to turn canned ingredients we often have in our pantry to fresh tasting, flavorful meals.”  Ann Roberts had the honor of announcing that the “bread salad” created by Hawthorn Grill Chef/Owner Candace Rinke won her the title of Chef Showdown Championship and $500 cash from the Dayton Home & Garden Show.

 

Judges

Chef House’s Bruschetta with Scallops

Salmon, avocado, and greens from Chef Mariah Gahagan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chef David Glynn describes his dish

Chef Candice Rinke goes over her creation

Chef Aaron Braun’s Bacon Wrapped Chicken appetizer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chef David Glynn’s Chicken app

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jim Bucher with Chef Crystal Coppock from Wheat Penny

Jim Bucher talks with Chef Richard Roberts from De’Lish about his Salmon appetizer

Chef Matt Hayden’s winning Indian Pakora appetizer with Tandoori sauce

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Judging duties

Round 1: Chef Braun, Chef Glynn and Chef Rinke

Scallop from Chef Nathan Vance from Salar took it to the limit

Round 3: Chef Vance, Chef House, Chef Hayden

Chef Coppock had an excellent salmon appetizer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chef Richard Roberts made this delicious Salmon on Pita appetizer and used a blow torch

Chef House talks to the judges

Chef Gahagan talks to Jim Bucher and the crowd

Chef Aaron Braun talks about his culinary creation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Dayton Dining, Food Adventures, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Big Ragu, chef, Chef Showdown, convention center, Dayton, Food Adventures, gahagan, garden, hayden, rinke, showdown

The Top 20 Green Foods of Dayton

March 17, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Cobblestone Cafe’s Honey Fried Chicken Salad

Guacamole – hard to get a good pic of that stuff

Happy St Patricks Day from the Food Adventures Crew to you… Today, Hungry Jax, The Big Ragu and Chef House are getting into the Irish spirit by exploring the colorful green foods of Dayton.  From salads to side items, these menu offerings are luckier than a four leaf clover.

Now may we present with Faith and Begorrah,

 

THE TOP 20 GREEN FOODS OF DAYTON

1) HONEY FRIED CHICKEN SALAD at COBBLESTONE CAFE:  Hungry Jax points to this as one of her favorites.  Not only are the greens crisp and fresh, but the chicken is fried perfectly.  The quaint atmosphere always adds to our Food Adventures at Cobblestone.

 

Saag Paneer – An India Oven Traditional Creamy Spinach dish, you MUST TRY

2) GRILLED KALE SALAD at LUCKY’S TAPROOM:  Chef House says this is a “Must Eat.”  One of her “go to” menu items in the Oregon District, it is fresh, delicious and local!

 

3) ASIAGO CRUSTED CHICKEN at ROOST MODERN ITALIAN: When Executive Chef Dana Downs is at the helm, you can expect some divine food.  The pesto linguine and spinach make this dish….

 

4) SAAG PANEER at INDIA OVEN:  Creamy, wonderfully prepared traditional Indian dish served with white, basmati rice.  The fresh, cheesey mixture melts in your mouth.  Want to branch out and try a delicious dish?  Here is your chance.

 

5) MALA PORK from CHINA COTTAGE: Stir fried magic performed by Tiger Wang and his cooking staff.  Green onions and thinly sliced pork tossed in a light brown sauce.  This dish highlights that signature taste, from an iconic Dayton restaurant.  The Big Ragu gives it 2 chopsticks up!

 

6) THE AVOCADO & GOAT CHEESE BLT from LUCKY’S TAPROOM & EATERY:  Drew Trick is serving up the mainstay favorites on his menu, and this is one has a cult following.  Chef House says “you gotta try this sandwich.”  The local ingredients are amazing.

 

Mala Pork from China Cottage – an amazing dish, with a little heat

7) DRESSED GREENS SALAD at WHEAT PENNY OVEN & BAR:  Known for their pizza, the delightful, delicious salads are the perfect accompaniment or a meal in themselves.  Your choice of dressing drizzled… for rizzle.

 

8) PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S: One of the more unique Dayton creations on this list, and one of the most surprisingly delicious.  A soup with a fan following like now other, get in here and try this one-of-a-kind soup.

 

9)  BACON WRAPPED ASPARAGUS at OLLIE’S PLACE:  A perfect appetizer to go with the unmatched beer selection at this eatery.  Warning- people at your table will want you to share this, so get a couple of orders to pass around.

 

10)  GREEN CHICKEN CURRY at SIAM PAD THAI: A flavorful dish in a flavorful restaurant.  Get it spicy or mild.  The sauce is derived from green chilies, coconut milk, eggplant, bamboo shoots, green beans and bell pepper.

 

Dressed Greens at Wheat Penny – Healthy never tasted so good

11) FRIED GREEN TOMATOES at RUE DEMAINE:  A simple southern side, perfected by a decorated chef.  Try these delicately fried slices, that simply melt in your mouth.

 

12) GUACAMOLE from TAQUERIA MIXTECA:  Authentic mix from the local authority in authentic Mexican cuisine.  If you want guacamole like they make it in Mexico City, then you’ve found the right place.

 

13) GARLIC EDAMAME at KABUKI:  Healthy bean sprouts that slide into your mouth.  This appetizer can be perfectly described as “addicting.”  Simple and so good, it is a perfect warm up for a sushi roll.

 

14) KEY LIME PIE at COCO’S BISTRO: A heartier version of the original, it is almost like a key lime cheesecake.  Go green with this dessert, and make your day special.  The elegant atmosphere adds to the dreamy experience.

 

Deep Fried Asparagus wrapped with bacon

15) SPINACH CON QUESO DIP from DOUBLEDAY’S GRILL & TAVERN: The type of appetizer where you fight over the last scoops of dip when the others at the table.  Yeah, it is that damn good.

 

16) CHILE RELLENO from TACO LOCO: Ohh si, si, si!  One of the Big Ragu’s favorite dishes and one of his favorite places.  Not only is this food great and homemade, the prices are extremely reasonable.

 

17) BUTTERCREAM COOKIE SANDWICHES from THE CAKERY:  So good you get a sugar high when you eat them.  Typically decorated in green these cookies are probably the most sinful thing on this list.

 

18) ZUCCHINI TACO BOATS at FLAVOR’S EATERY:  Carved out zucchini, filled with taco toppings, these “boats” are delicious and a healthy spin on tacos.  Get some at the Centerville Flavors and they even make them for healthy “to go” meal plans.

 

 19)  SQUASH SPAGHETTI from FLAVOR’S EATERY:  Thinly shredded squash, made to look like small noodles.  Tasty, healthy and as filling as pasta.  It is a good way to “fool” your tastebuds into thinking you are eating carbs, but it s all healthy squash.

Garlic Edamame at Kabuki

 

20) FRIED PICKLES at THE DUBLIN PUB: What’s a St Patty’s list without an Irish place.  Hand dipped crunchy, pickle slices, battered, deep fried and served with some ranch dip.

 

We are not food critics.. we just love to eat.  Food is our passion, and so are the original events, photos and festivals.

Join the 6,200 passionate Facebook followers of Food Adventures by clicking HERE

 

Pickle Soup at Blind Bobs

Zucchini Boats – “Meals by Flavors”


Chile Relleno – Taco Loco

The Cakery – Buttercream cookie sandwich

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guacamole – hard to get a good pic

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shredded squash –

 

Filed Under: Dayton Dining, Food Adventures, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Blind Bob's, Cakery., china cottage, cobblestone, coco's, Dayton, Doubledays, Dublin Pub, Flavors, Food Adventure, green, india oven, Kabuki, ollies, Roost, Rue Dumaine, st patricks, st patys, Taco Loco, Taqueria Mixteca, wheat penny

Take a fresh look at ‘Bridges of Madison County’

March 17, 2016 By Dayton937

The simplistic set design keeps the attention on the actors.

The simplistic set adaptation keeps the attention on the actors.

Megan Cooper

Megan Cooper

In yet another remarkable instance of Dayton’s big-city-small-town dynamic, we witness the wealth of arts found in large metros that’s still accessible for all potential audiences. Now through March 20, the touring cast of The Bridges of Madison County will be performing at the Schuster Center in Dayton as its makes its limited run around the country. Dayton is fortunate to land one of these few performances, and tickets start at just $25.

Val Beerbower

Val Beerbower

Those who are familiar with the story of Bridges will find the musical closely follows, but takes some creative departures. Here with their reflections and comparisons are Megan Cooper and Val Beerbower, cultural arts enthusiasts.

VB: This adaptation from book to musical bypasses some of the conventions used to adapt the book to the 1995 film starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. The musical pulled out story lines from other characters, including the neighbors, who offer a little comedic relief. We also get to know lead female character Francesca’s family better through the musical, which gives the story more depth.

Other characters' storylines are more prominent in this musical adaptation.

Other characters’ storylines are more prominent in this musical adaptation.

MC: Reviews of the film are lopsided because people loved the acting and the actors but weren’t wild about the script. Fortunately, the musical avoids this fate because they introduced these additional storylines. Additionally, the musical provides a little extra closure between the characters you don’t get in the film. One could argue that if you didn’t care for the film, you should see the musical, thanks to these adaptations.

VB: The musical styles selected by the composer (Jason Robert Brown, The Last Five Years, Parade, Songs for a New World) reflect another kind of adaptation. Italian-born Francesca is somewhat of a misfit as a housewife on an Iowa farm, and her solos are sweeping arias that are more opera than musical. It’s an interesting way to juxtapose a character using the songs themselves as the medium.

Bridges of Madison County the musical is in Dayton through March 20 on its limited US tour.

Bridges of Madison County the musical is in Dayton through March 20 on its limited US tour.

MC: Agreed, the music was phenomenal. You might not catch yourself humming the tunes the next day, but they are very well composed and do a great job of conveying the story. The music moves the plot along rather than create a distraction. Likewise, the set design was very simplistic and not distracting. The set cleverly employed the actors to move the staging around, and the actors’ movements coupled with strategic lighting cued you into whether they were an active part of the scene or simply adding background.

VB: It was unusual that in the musical – a story about a photographer shooting covered bridges – you didn’t really see a single physical bridge in the play. But it worked because your focus was on the actors.

MC: Don’t worry, there are still plenty of covered bridges to see in the Schuster’s gallery spaces. The current display, “The Bridges of the Miami Valley,” presented by the Visual Art Center of Preble County, showcases an array of paintings, sculptures, and other locally produced works of art depicting the Dayton region’s covered bridges.

The Bridges of the Miami Valley is the current visual arts display in the Schuster Center.

The Bridges of the Miami Valley is the current visual arts display in the Schuster Center.

The Visual Art Center of Preble County put together this gallery featuring local artists depicting famous covered bridges in the region.

The Visual Art Center of Preble County put together this gallery featuring local artists depicting famous covered bridges in the region.

Filed Under: Downtown Dayton, On Stage Dayton Reviews Tagged With: arts, Dayton, Dayton Ohio, Downtown Dayton, Events, musicals, Schuster Performing Arts Center, Theater, Things to Do, Things to do in Dayton

Mystery Monday – March 14, 2016

March 14, 2016 By Tom Gilliam

Welcome to Week 7 of Mystery Mondays.  The answer to Week Six’s Mystery Photo is: The Ludlow Building on 136 South Ludlow Street in Downtown Dayton. I took this photo on March 27, 2015.

Congratulations to our winner Curt Dalton! Rapid Fired Pizza certificates are coming your way!

DMM Mystery Monday-6

The Ludlow Building in Downtown Dayton – March 27, 2015

The Ludlow Building, built in 1916, was designed by the Pretzinger & Musselman architectural firm for Adam Schantz, Jr., who used his father’s estate to redevelop Ludlow Street into an important commercial thoroughfare. This building has distinct facades (one in brick with terra-cotta & metal trim and two in glazed terra-cotta veneer) designed to make one building look like three different buildings. The Terra-Cotta Historic District where the Ludlow Building sits, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (added on May 31, 1984).

This building was formerly occupied by Reynolds & Reynolds as part of it’s downtown campus before relocating it’s headquarters to Kettering’s Miami Valley Research Park in 1999. The current occupants are Premier Health Partners and Dayton Public Schools.

We challenge you to tell us where in the Dayton area this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:

http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week Seven:

DMM Mystery Monday-7

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Dayton Ohio, daytongram, daytonmostmetro, mystery mondays, photo contest, Photography, Rapid Fired Pizza, Tom Gilliam

Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery – Poised for a Comeback

March 10, 2016 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

Poised to Reopen Soon

Lucky’s Taproom is on track to make a big return, and they are leaving nothing to “luck” or “chance.”  Andrew Trick, owner and operator has been working long hours, every day, since closing his restaurant due to a health scare.  The staff and Drew have scrubbed and sanitized the facility from top to bottom.  They have repainted, re-caulked and re-sealed every nook and cranny.  Cooking equipment has been sent out to be serviced, and no pan has been unturned.

This is the comeback that will put Lucky’s back on track after a shut down just before they were gearing up for a big 5th year anniversary celebration.  Andrew Trick and Lucky’s have prided themselves over the years on using local farms and companies for everything from meats to bread.   There motto and business plan has always been to support local.

Besides scouring the entire restaurant, Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery has again gone local by hiring a Dayton area company, Ram Environmental to aggressively address the health of its envlogodiners on a molecular level.  Lucky’s is erring on the side of caution by investing in a state of the art system that will keep air and surfaces at Lucky’s, virtually bacteria, mold and virus free.  This unique “seek and destroy” technology is completely “Green” and is already being put to use in Lucky’s.  For the past week 2 large, “Ram Super Scrubber” machines have been running 24/7 in the restaurant completely “disinfecting” all surfaces and air impurities.  There are no harmful chemicals, liquids, or ozone involved, and the system is completely safe to be around.  Phase 2 will be the installation of a permanent maintenance system that will be placed in the ice machines, walk in coolers, kitchen ductwork and dining room ductwork.  The result aims to provide a virtually bacteria free environment.

Vegetarian Goat Burger

Ram Environmental has installed similar systems into Cassano’s Dough Plant and all three Dorothy Lane Market Stores to ensure a bacteria free environment.  Local area school cafeterias have also benefited from Ram’s Environmental systems.

Still waiting for Health Department clearance, Lucky’s Taproom hopes to open as soon as Friday night, March 11th, for a limited menu dinner service.

Lucky’s Owner Andrew Trick Invests in the Future

This is great news to area foodies, who have been missing the favorite eatery.  Lucky’s, located in the Oregon District at 520 East Fifth Street is known for their burgers,  beer selection, fish battered in your choice of beer and a terrific Sunday Brunch.

 

Fish Dinner – you can pick which beer will batter your fish

Great Burgers at Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheese Stix

Brunch

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Brunch, Dayton Dining Tagged With: Andrew Trick, Dayton, DaytonDining, Drew Trick, eatery, Lucky's, Oregon District, Ram Environmental, Taproom

Greek Food Truck to Hit Dayton Streets

March 8, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

“The Greek Street Food Truck” is about to explode onto the streets of the Miami Valley

Food Adventures has super secret info that we have been waiting months to release right here on Dayton Most Metro.  It concerns Dayton’s newest food truck, that will soon make a splash in the Miami Valley.

The scoop is so fresh that their website isn’t up yet, but you can find them on Facebook —>here.

THE GREEK STREET FOOD TRUCK is putting the final touches on its menu and final tweaks on operations, but looks ready to roll.

We are excited because this will be the first strictly “Greek Based truck” that we know of and brings further diversity to an already incredible selection of local food vehicles.

So whats the scoop on the new kid in town?  Who is behind the Greek Street Food Truck?

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON THE OWNER:

— CHEF CHRIS SPIRTOS, owner and operator of Greek Street Food Truck has an extensive cooking background.

Traditional Beef/Lamb Gyro from “Greek Street Food Truck”

— Chris went to Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago to hone his craft.  The Centerville native, also  worked at L’Auberge and as a sous chef at Sung’s Korean Bistro in Cincinnati.

— Chris also studied under the Chef for Oprah Winfrey, Chef Art Smith, while living in Chicago.  He was so well thought of, that Chris was flown to Oprah’s California home to help fix a dinner she hosted for the first graduating class of her school in Africa.

— More recently, Chris has worked on the incredible food truck, Zombie Dogz

— Born into a Greek family (his grandparents were from Greece), Chris’ recipe for Baklava is his mom’s, and it is a traditional favorite.

 

What type of eats can you expect on the truck?  Food Adventures  has all the scoop right here.

 

 

Stacked Chicken on the Spindle cooker

Other GREEK STREET FOOD TRUCK info:

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON WHAT TO EXPECT:

— The meats are individually layered on a spindle and cooked.  There are no compressed or processed meats.  Just a Beef/Lamb mixture spindle, and a Chicken spindle.  Each gyro is sliced to order.

— The Greek Street Food Truck will have a core menu of:
   Gyros
   Greek Fries  or Regular Fries
   Spanakopita (a Greek spinach Pie)
   An assortment of dips, possibly including hummus
   Homemade Baklava

— The menu will feature daily, revolving specials as well

 

Now, without further delay, let’s give you our menu items from Greek Street Food Truck that are absolutely, “Must Eats”….

 

MUST EATS:

— CHICKEN GYRO, STREET STYLE: Stacked rotisserie chicken breasts slices, piled into a pita and topped with “street style toppings.”  Street style means:  tomato jam, pickled red onions, crumbled feta, fresh herbs, fries, and tzatziki sauce.  Quite honestly, one of the most flavorful and unique gyros we have had.  If you try one thing, this is item to grab.

— BEEF GYRO, TRADITIONAL STYLE:  Shaved slices of stacked lamb and beef rotisserie cooked meat.  This is a throwback to the gyros of the old country with “traditional toppings.”  Traditional toppings are: tomato, tzatziki sauce, onions, smoked paprika and french fries.  This gyro is authentic.  It is like a steak sandwich, no processed meat here.  Damn good food on the “go.”

 

Owner Chris Spirtos of “Greek Street Food Truck”

We are excited for the first Greek themed entry into Dayton’s food truck scene.  The Food Adventure crew of The Big Ragu, Chef House, and Hungry Jax, wish Chris good luck with his “Big Fat Greek Food Truck.”   We think Greek Street will be a huge hit… here’s to you .. OPA !

 

Below are more practically edible photos of the luscious food at Greek Street Food Truck.

For the best photos and info on Dayton’s food scene, “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Also, follow Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax on the Instagram Food Adventures account by clicking HERE.

The “Street Style Chicken Gyro”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Greek Salad

Website . and Instagram

The Chicken Gyro Street Style is a MUST EAT !

Greek Beef Specialty

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Greek Street

Coming to your city

Spanakopita – homemade

Greek Shrimp

Beef and Lamb meat, stacked and cooking

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Traditional or Street Gyro? you cant go wrong

Greek Street Food Truck side view

The pickled onions on street gyro are amazing

Handful of Greek Street Food !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Columbus, Dayton Dining, Dayton Food Trucks, Food Adventures, The Featured Articles Tagged With: baklava, Big Ragu, chef house, Dayton, Food Adventures, Food Truck, Food Truck Rally, Food Trucks, greek, greek fries, greek street, gyro, hungry jax, spanikopita, stret, traditional

Dive Bar Tuesday: Time Out Cavern

March 8, 2016 By Brian Petro

 

Time Out Cavern Stairs

Descending into the very familiar.

There are many criteria on which you can judge a bar. Some people look for a certain selection of liquor, focusing on bourbon or wine or craft beer. Others go because of loyalty; your friend owns it, or bartends there, or they support a certain team you like. There is something to be said for the talent that they have hired. Finding the lady who makes your Manhattan with just the right amount of sweetness, or the gentleman who has a glass of wine poured and waiting for you at your favorite seat, is worth its weight in Pappy Van Winkle. All of these things are lovely, but the real deal is when a bar becomes as comfortable as a well worn sweater. Whether it is a high end bar where you can get a pour of that Pappy or a place where “Pappy” is the nickname of the guy that is ALWAYS sitting at the end of the bar, getting to that point where everyone knows who you are makes the best watering hole. Walking down the stairs into the Time Out Cavern (5543 Far Hills Ave, Dayton, OH 45429), every step feels a little more like home.

Yes, you are walking down, like you are going into someone’s basement. The mirrors and metal signs on the wall span the gamut of styles, from old Apsen Edge (the Coors answer to Bud Platinum or Miller 64) to modern Stella Artois images. At the bottom of the staircase you turn to your right and you would swear you were in your friend’s kick ass basement. There are two pool tables (used for tournaments on Wednesday and are FREE to use on Sunday), two dart boards, a nice long bar, a jukebox filled with excellent tunes, and enough mirrors and beer signs on the walls to explore for majority of your stay. There is definitely a rich atmosphere that throws back to a simpler time in the American bar scene. If you are paying enough attention, you will notice that many of them revolve around the Kentucky Derby.

The owner, John “The Man” Seaman is a lover of horse racing. If you stop by while he is there, you may catch a race on one of the many televisions around the bar. He is such a lover of the sport that every year Time Out Cavern throws one of the best, if not best known, watching parties in the city. They ship in bottles of the official bourbon to serve in the official glasses of the derby that year (which they bring by the case). Of course there is the popular Mint Julep as the star of the night, but they mix up a few house specialties as well. They have a raffle where you can win one of those official bottles, as well as swag from Kentucky Derby’s past. Fancy hats are a must, but there is a low ceiling and not much lighting, so not too fancy.

Time Our Cavern Pool Tables

Welcome to the Cavern! Make yourself at home.

Their beer selection is typical to what you would find in a proper dive bar with a few exceptions like Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Samuel Adams Winter Lager. You can settle down with a Rolling Rock as well, or 22s of Budweiser or Heineken. The cocktail specialties they have are not limited to the Kentucky Derby; while they do not keep an up to date menu for them, they do have a secret menu you can ask for. I am going to go on a limb and say it is one of the few bars of its kind where you will find a Brandy Alexander on the menu. You can also find their signature shot, the Time Out, a combination of raspberry and orange vodka, orange juice, and a splash of sour and grenadine. While they have a good variety of flavored vodkas, whiskeys, and other liquors, their favorites seem to be Jameson and Patron. I am going to go even further out on that limb from earlier and say it is the only dive bar we will cover that you can get a Bénédictine and Brandy, also known as a B and B. It is one of John’s favorite drinks, and definitely a rarity to find.

One thing that really struck me was Bubba’s Corner. It is a baby bar within the bar. On a busy Friday or Saturday night, I could see it being used as a second stop for a beer or a shot of bourbon. It is a shrine than John keeps to an old friend of his who used to like watching the Derby with him. That would be Bubba’s spot in the bar to watch it. When he passed away, the spot was kept for him to keep watching the majestic horse race. In that area there is also a plaque with a dedication to Cpl. Richard Gilbert Jr., a Marine who gave his life in service of his country. He was a regular there, and it is a touching tribute to the sacrifice he and his fellow Marines and sailors made. They have a loyal base of regulars, and that is a sign of a great place to get a drink.

Descending into the Time Out Cavern takes you back. And it sucks you in. Why go back up into the world when there are good beers and plenty of drinks? Well, maybe if you are hungry. They do not serve food there. Plus it is a Browns bar, and we all know how friendly those fans are (Speaking as a life-long Browns fan). Talking to one of the bartenders, I learned that the main entrance near Meadowlark is where the new customers enter; regulars usually park in the back and use the back entrance. Enter where you want, just as long as you enter. A good time will be had by all.

Time Out Cavern is open 2:30 PM to 2:30 AM, Monday through Saturday and 7:30 PM to 2:30 AM on Sunday.

Filed Under: Dayton Dining, Dayton On Tap, Happy Hour, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Beer, Dayton, DaytonDining, Dive Bar Tuesday, Kentucky Derby, Mint Juleps, pool, Things to Do, Time Out Cavern

Mystery Monday – March 7, 2016

March 7, 2016 By Tom Gilliam

Welcome to Week 6 of Mystery Mondays.  The answer to Week Five’s Mystery Photo is: The atrium of the Kuhns Building in Downtown Dayton.

Congratulations to our winner Rachel Gensler! Rapid Fired Pizza certificates are coming your way! I took this photo on February 18, 2014.

DMM Mystery Monday-5

Atrium of the Kuhns Building in Downtown Dayton – February 18, 2014

DMM Mystery Monday

Exterior of the Kuhns Building – December 26, 2013

The Benjamin F. Kuhns Building was built in 1883 and added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 24, 1978. This five story building, situated on the corner of Fourth & Main Streets next to The Dayton Arcade, was designed by Dayton based architectural firm Peters & Burns and constructed by Dayton contractors Beaver & Butt (this is not a joke).

Constructed in the Romanesque Revival architectural style, the building was used as a clothing store, department store, an arts school and was one of the first buildings in the United States to install a mail chute.

The building’s namesake, Benjamin F. Kuhns owned a company that produced agricultural equipment. He was also one of the founders of Miami Valley Hospital.

Currently, the Kuhns Building is almost at full capacity and home to the Better Business Bureau, AIDS Resource Center and many other businesses.

We challenge you to tell us where in the Dayton area this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:

http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week Six:

DMM Mystery Monday-6

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Dayton Ohio, daytongram, daytonmostmetro, mystery mondays, photo contest, Photography, Rapid Fired Pizza, Tom Gilliam

“Tailgate Buffet” at Vinny’s for Last U.D. Home Game

March 1, 2016 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Sat. Mar 5th, Doors Open 4:30pm on Dryden Rd

Hey basketball fans.. Vinny’s Bar and Grill on Dryden Rd is offering up their “World Famous Indoor Tailgate Buffet” this Saturday evening from 5:30pm -7:30pm!   All you want local sausages, broasted wings and so much more…

As always, Vinny’s is the place to pre-party, before University of Dayton Flyer Men’s Basketball games.

The Food Adventures Crew will be on hand for what they call an annual “Munch Madness” Food Adventure event.  Also on hand will be Rick from “Ricks Tropical Delight” cooking up  Burgers and Sausages on the Big Green Egg Ceramic Grill.

 

HERE’S THE SKINNY ON SATURDAY’S EVENT:

WHAT: “MUNCH MADNESS INDOOR TAILGATE BUFFET PARTY”

WHERE: VINNY’S BAR AND GRILL on 2205 Dryden Rd, in Moraine

WHEN: SATURDAY, MARCH 5th:   Doors open 4:30pm – Buffet begins 5:30pm

WHY: UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON FLYERS LAST HOME BASKETBALL GAME OF THE SEASON – Pre-party

PRICE: $12 per person for the Indoor Tailgate Buffet – or you can order off the menu a la carte

BUFFET MENU INCLUDES:

Locally made Hot and Mild Polish Sausages, and Bratwursts

— BROASTED CHICKEN WINGS: Trays of wings with sides of bbq, mild and hot sauces

—  HOT & MILD POLISH SAUSAGES: Locally made and grilled on the Big Egg Grill

— BRATWURST: Local ones, grilled on the Big Green Egg Ceramic grill by Rick

— HOMEMADE ROAST BEEF:  Vinny’s secret recipe

— SIDES: (probably Green Beans)

— SALAD:  with various homemade dressings

— SOUP – the homemade soup of the day is always a slam dunk

Don’t want the buffet?  No problem, Vinny’s has a full menu and will be featuring 1/2 pound and 1/4 pound Angus Burgers, grilled on the Big Green Egg.   Rick will also be grilling up Chicken Breasts

All You Want Broasted Wings, 3 Different Sauces

Join us for some great sports grub – Saturday Night’s alright for biting !

Vinny Nyhan and his staff will be fixing some delicious food, do your part and come out !

If you have tickets to the game, this is the place to pre-party.  If you don’t have tickets, feel free to pre-party, then stay and drink some brews while watching U.D. end the regular season with a win.  GO FLYERS !

Win every day by following Food Adventures with Chef House, The Big Ragu and Hungry Jax on Facebok, by clicking here.  Enjoy our weekly articles featuring Dayton’s best food scoop, right here on Dayton Most Metro!

 

The Event

2205 Dryden Rd, Moraine, OH 45439

Vinny – the Big Guy

Food Adventures Crew

Drinks and more

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rick for Ricks Tropical Delights on the Ceramic Grill

Broasted Wings

Broasting Machine

Steaming Sausages

Homemade Soup

Inside Big Green Egg

Vinny and his Parents

Vinny and Rick

Great food

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Out Front

IndoorTailgate Buffet

Chicken wings and more

Big Green Egg – Ceramic Grill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Dayton Dining, Food Adventures Tagged With: angus, Basketball, big green egg, Big Ragu, brats, breasts, broasted, buffet, burgers, chef house, chicken, Dayton, drinks, egg, Food Adventure, Food Adventures, grill, grilled, hungry jax, madness, march, munch madness, polish, ricks tropical delight, salad, soup, UD, wings

Mystery Monday – February 29, 2016

February 29, 2016 By Tom Gilliam

Welcome to Week 5 of Mystery Mondays.  The answer to Week Four’s Mystery Photo is: The Huffman Block Building aka David Building on East Third Street in Downtown Dayton.

Many of you got this one right!  Congratulations to our winner Emily Kim! Rapid Fired Pizza certificates are coming your way! I took this photo on December 17, 2015.

This building will be part of the exciting new Fire Blocks District redevelopment by The Ellway Group which is projected to include 57 residential units and 10 1st floor retail units. Here are some interesting facts about the Huffman Block Building from fireblocksdistrict.com.

DMM Mystery Monday-4

The Huffman Block Building aka David Building on East Third Street in Downtown Dayton

On May 14, 1914, the Dayton Daily News announced that the Huffman heirs had taken out a permit for the construction of a $125,000 building on the north side of East Third between Jefferson and St. Clair streets.  The heirs included William H. Simms, Charles H. Simms, Miss Lizzie Harries, Mrs. L H Mumma, Mrs. Mary L. Aull and Miss Anna M. Huffman, all members of well-known business families in Dayton.  Construction of the Huffman Block (111-129 Was Third street) began in June, 1914 and was completed by late December of that year.

On February 7, 1915, the newspaper published an article praising the building and extolling its many modern features. Titled “New Huffman Block Credit to City: Modern New Business Block Rises from Ruins of Building Lot by Fire,” it clearly illustrates the city’s fascination with the ultra-modern, “fireproof” buildings quickly becoming an important part of the city streetscape.

The building housed a variety of small retail and light industrial companies including The Patterson Tool and Supply Company, the Dayton Iron and Steel Company, the Dayton Boiler Compound Company, the Burnett-Larsh Manufacturing Company plus office supply and furniture stores.

Constructed in 1914, it is an excellent example of the conservative Commercial style buildings common to many urban streetscapes in this period.  This wide brick veneer building is ten bays wide.  The high concrete foundation is faced with polished granite.  Bays 1-4 and 7-10 are commercial store fronts.  Bays were altered by First National Bank  to allow for a drive through service.  Above the first story retail bays, the Chicago Commercial style windows are divided by brick piers.  A brackets cornice is located just below the parapet.  The parapet is shaped above the first, last and center bays.  The rear facade is red brick and is banded with 2/2 light windows.

We challenge you to tell us where in the Dayton area this photo was taken by filling out the form below.  We’ll do a random drawing from all those with a correct answer and the winner will get 2 pizzas from Rapid Fired Pizza.

Enter here:

http://goo.gl/forms/dyU55fzc48

We’ll post the winner next Monday with details about the photo as well as a new photo to challenge your knowledge of the Dayton area.

Thanks for playing and good luck!

Here’s our Mystery Photo for Week Five:

DMM Mystery Monday-5

Photo by Tom Gilliam of DaytonGram & Tom Gilliam Photography.

Filed Under: Community, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Dayton, Dayton Ohio, daytongram, daytonmostmetro, mystery mondays, photo contest, Photography, Rapid Fired Pizza, Tom Gilliam

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Art Start Pre-School Storytime 2nd Thursday of the month 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM Rosewood Arts Center 2655 Olson Dr....

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