Join us at Jags for a summer seafood bake. A laid back picnic of fresh New England seafood. Our chefs will entertain you with a variety of mixed cocktails, wine and New England beers, along with all the New England staple cuisines.
Dayton Dining
Shamrock Shakes & Other March Treats We Can’t Live Without! (Made Over)
March sure rolled in quick this year! Most of us are ready for Spring and seasonal sweet treats remind is it’s finally on the way! Okay so the Shamrock Shakes actually arrived in February but I’ve been trying to ignore that fact because the mere idea of them adds a few inches to my waistline. With more than 6o million served yearly, those tasty shakes draw more buzz than the McRib – that’s whole other article. At close to 400 calories, 14 grams of fat, 63 of the carbs I try to avoid and 11 grams of protein I wondered if there were a healthier makeover option for the Shamrock Shake. Watching my macros, not eating anything with preservatives and staying away from dairy has made life a little sad at times especially when a favorite like this rolls into town. But don’t fret, there’s hope! I dug up some yummy lighter alternatives.
Clean & Green Shamrock Shake – Recipe from Hungry Girl
Ingredients
3/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1 oz. (about 6 tbsp.) vanilla protein powder with about 100 calories per serving
1/3 cup spinach leaves
1/8 tsp. peppermint extract
1 1/4 cups crushed ice or 6 – 10 ice cubes
Directions
Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend at high speed until smooth, stopping and stirring if needed.
Or this version from Cooking Light Magazine!
Or just have the damn thing and hit the treadmill after, whatever works for you!
Another March favorite……Girl Scout Cookies! But I’m partial to Samoas & big surprise Thin Mints. Who isn’t? Not gonna lie, there a few boxes of each in my kitchen right now. I tried to justify the purchase as a way of supporting future female leaders and entrepreneurs which is partly it, but really, COOKIES. Anyway I did happen to dig up a few make over recipes for those too.
Best Low Carb Thin Mints (Gluten Free!) – Recipe by AllDayIDreamAboutFood.com
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 3/4 cups almond flour
- 1/3 cup cocao powder
- 1/4 cup Swerve Sweetener
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg, slightly beaten
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp liquid stevia extract OR another 1/4 cup Swerve Sweetener
Coating
- 1 tbsp butter or coconut oil, or 1/2 ounce cocoa butter* (see cook’s notes)
- 7 oz sugar-free dark chocolate such as Lily’s OR 90% Lindt chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
Low Carb Samoa Recipe by Your Lighter Side
And if you’re feeling really ambitious, here’s 9 other Girl Scout Cookie makeover recipes you may love!
Making healthier choices has been a huge adjustment in my life, but the more I research and try new things the closer I get to feeling like making those choices doesn’t have to be such a burden. There is a lot of trial and error and there are days where I just throw in the towel and eat whatever I want. You have to have those moments I think but I always come back to how I feel when I am eating cleaner – and no cookie beats that!
Enjoy these makeovers. More coming soon + summer Grilling season is just around the corner.
Stay happy & healthy!
Shana
10 Health(ish) Snacks for Your Super Bowl Party!
I know nothing about football, or the Super Bowl but snacks? Well, I know a great deal about those. I recently asked my Happy Platers group what snacks they love to munch on at parties to help find healthier options. It seems as though anything you can dip a chip into and those tasty little meatballs are a hit. So I scoured the internet and my favorite health blogs for some options to keep the menu light but tasty. These ideas and recipes will you help you avoid munching away mindlessly and having regrets on Monday! (aside from being it Monday)
10 Super Snacks Made Healthier
Photo Credit Cooking Light
Glazed Cocktail Meatballs – RECIPE
By skipping high sodium ingredients like ketchup and chili sauce and swapping bread crumbs with whole grain bulgur this recipe stills packs taste without bloat.
Cauliflower Pizza Bites – RECIPE
Because who the heck doesn’t love a pizza muffin? The two words together are just magical. This is one recipe I can’t wait to make. Just like your regular pizza, you can alter the ingredients the match toppings you typically love!
No Bake Brownies – RECIPE
FACT. If it’s made with ganache, I will NOSH. The Minimalist Baker is one of my favorite blogs changing the way I view dessert and how many options I really have, despite making so many dietary changes! After anything salty, I need something sweet. And what’s a party without brownies anyway? This recipe has FIVE ingredients and is super easy to make! Walnuts, Almonds, Dates, Cacao (or cocoa) Powder + Nibs, Sea Salt
Photo Credit The Minimalist Baker
Really, that’s it!
Here’s 5 UH-MAZING DIPS that well won’t stop that scale from dipping.
Goat Cheese Queso Dip With Vegetable Chips
Guilt Free Artichoke & Kale Dip
Moving along to a fan favorite, CHICKEN WINGS!
Try this sweet but SAVORY recipe from Domestic Fit for Baked
Photo Credit Jessica in The Kitchen
Brown Sugar Chicken Wings.
And last, but certainly not least – potato skins. Only this recipe uses sweet potatoes and lighter ingredients!
OTHER HELPFUL TIPS
Let’s face it, sometimes we just want to use the recipe we always have and that’s fine too. Be mindful of high sodium and when an option, choose low salt ingredients. When it comes to sour cream – you can swap with Greek Yogurt to make it light. If you’re going to have chips – choose baked but an even better option for your dips is veggies! And last but not least – always remember one golden rule – everything in moderation. If your Super Bowl Party is your one cheat day, have the snack you want but watch your portions and drink lots of water 😉
Have a happy healthy weekend and I hope whatever team you’re cheering for wins!
That’s all for now.
Shana
Dive Bar Tuesday: McGillicutty’s Pub
Welcome to McGillicutty’s!
When the biggest bar holiday of the year comes knocking, you sit down with your team and have a serious conversation about the bar where you are going to celebrate. A lively discussion commenced and the finalists were chosen. The finalists all had certain merits in the dive bar designation. The Final Four bars we decided on were Flannigan’s Pub, Harrigan’s Tavern, Mack’s Tavern, and McGillicutty’s Pub. We look forward to visiting all of them in good time, but the one we went for this week just ahead of St. Patrick’s Day was McGillicutty’s Pub. It has been a staple in the community for over twenty-two years, and ready to go for a celebration of all things Irish.
What struck me first about McGillicutty’s Pub (1980 E Whipp Rd, Dayton, OH 45440) was their lack of pool tables. It is officially the first dive bar we went to that did not have one. But they did have one of the biggest virtual golf games I have seen, and plenty of electronic dart boards to spend some time with. There are plenty of televisions as well, perfect for coming in over the weekend and watching your bracket either slowly rise to the top or crumble into a thousand pieces as the Cinderella teams start to emerge. It is off the beaten path enough you should be able to find a seat with your twenty-two ounce beer without a problem.
So. Good.
The food menu is extensive. There is something for everyone, and it is all made to order in the kitchen. There is a wide variety of specialty pizzas, small appetizers, sandwiches, and wings. We did not get a chance to sample everything, but we know some people who did. The pizza was delightful, but I do not want to take anything away from the wings. The wings were delicious. The award winning Carolina BBQ Hot Damn Sauce was amazing. On Monday nights, the wings are $0.50 each, and we could not get enough of them. They were good enough to get one of our party that will not eat meat off the bone to dissect a wing so she could enjoy it. The sauce is on the spicy side, but not so spicy they will make you miserable. Even if they were, there is enough to drink to cool off your mouth.
The beer and cocktail menu…well, does not really exist. The beers they have on tap lean as far as this bar goes to the craft side of the spectrum: Blue Moon, Fat Tire, and some seasonals. They also have some classics on tap like Yuengling, which they were offering for $3.50 for thirty-four ounces on Mondays. They have tried offering more craft beers, but as we found out from our server and co-owner, the regulars like to stick to the basics. They have quite a few bottle offerings as well, including twenty-two ounce bottles of Bud Light for Sundays. Cocktails are more bespoke than anything else. They have their own unique specials, including a punch that sounds like a throwback to punches of yore: a variety of rums and available fruit juices, served so the whole table can enjoy such delights at a fair price. If you are there on Sunday, ask for their award winning Bloody Mary to get you through the morning.
Just getting started…
Is this an Irish pub that will be doing Kegs and Eggs? No. If you really want one you can start off your day there on Thursday (10 A.M.) with an Irish Breakfast. Then you will be ready for green beer and specials on some of their more Irish fare. The Reuben sandwich and pizza will be discounted, and there will be an Irish stew added as a special for the day. The staff will also be working hard on their specialty cocktails like the Shamrock and Lucky Charm for those that may need to switch it up from beer for a drink or two. It will be busy on Thursday, and with some luck, their large patio will be available for all the revelers clad in green.
McGillicutty’s Pub is decked out in green and ready for St. Patrick’s Day, but it is a place to come and enjoy some camaraderie any time of the year. Everyone we spoke with was very friendly and willing to answer any question. Their Facebook page is the place to go to find all of their specials and to keep up with the events going on at the pub, like their drop in dart leagues (Saturday night) and karaoke (Sunday night). And if you are looking for a challenge, there is a record for drinking their thirty-four ounce mugs. One bold patron was able to consume eighteen in a day, with help from a friend to get him home after the feat was accomplished. While we will definitely be back for the wings and the light atmosphere, we will leave that record for someone else to break. Sláinte!
44 Years of Flying Pizzas ** Win a Large Pizza **
The Sicilian Square and a Hand Tossed slice in the back
Dough can be seen flying in the air through the windows at 223 N Main Street in downtown Dayton. The familiar window sign, hustle and bustle is all part of “The Original Flying Pizza.”
The owners, the Graci family have been tossing pizzas downtown for 44 years, and they are still going strong. One slice at a time, they have stolen the hearts and stomachs of many Daytonians by serving their special New York Style Pizza recipe.
** YOU CAN WIN ONE OF THESE LARGE, 1 topping PIZZAS BY COMMENTING BELOW (winner chosen at random).**
How did a mom and pop from Sicily, make their American dream come true? Only Food Adventures has the scoop!
HERE’S THE SKINNY ON HOW FLYING PIZZA BECAME A DAYTON ICON:
Brothers Tony and Frank Graci share a laugh at the pizza shop
FROM SICILY to THE USA :
In 1958, long before becoming icons in Dayton, John Graci and his wife Frances left Sicily for the United States. They settled in New York City. After getting a job at “Sam’s Pizza,” John honed his pizza making skills. In a twist of fate, that building would soon be torn down to build the World Trade Center.
FROM NEW YORK CITY to DAYTON, OHIO:
John and Frances decided to drive and visit John’s brother and his girlfriend who were in Middletown Ohio. As fate would have it, they got a flat tire in Dayton. John and Frances thought Dayton was a vibrant, fun city and full of life, with a lot going on. They thought it would be a great place to raise a family. The Graci family left the Big Apple for the Gem City. Before you know it, in 1971 they had their own pizza shop downtown. They had two sons, Tony and Frank. John and his pizza were becoming a favorite, and he was even appearing on TV on Clubhouse 22 with Duffy the Dog and Malcom, showing his pizza tossing skills.
That was the early 70’s and the pizza business continued to grow in the 80’s and 90’s with cousins opening stores in Columbus, Mason, Fairborn and Centerville.
The Original Flying Pizza Downtown
PRESENT DAY – THE ORIGINAL FLYING PIZZA DOWNTOWN, 2015
Now, the next generation runs day to day operations downtown. Tony and Frank Graci can be found greeting customers and slicing pies daily. They still use that patented “Graci dough toss” every day.
— The Orginal Flying Pizza is located at 223 North Main Street in Downtown Dayton
— NY style pizza by the slice, or whole pies.
— Two types of pizza: (You can win a large one topping pizza free by commenting below)
1) Hand tossed NY style huge slices
2) Sicilian Squares – a thick, more bread like crust topped with special tomato sauce (old school)
— They have calzones and desserts too
— Hours are Mon – Sat 10:30am -7pm, closed Sundays
— They serve beer, as well as host private parties
— There is a parking garage and you get the first 30 minutes free if you ask the cashier for a parking validation
Now you know the story, so let’s dive into the food….
A Slice of Cheese Hand Tossed on the right, a Sicilian Slice of Cheese on the left
Ladies and gentlemen, we now present The Original Flying Pizza’s “Must Eats.”
MUST EATS:
— HAND TOSSED CHEESE PIZZA (SLICE or WHOLE PIE): This is it, the mainstay, the staple, the foundation of a Dayton icon. The mozzarella cheese is perfect, the sauce is perfect, the dough is perfect… every time. They call it “Neapolitan Pizza” which is the name for the style of pizza made in Naples, Italy.
WHEN YOU BUY A SLICE: The slices are big. If you order one, they turn around and heat it up in the oven for a couple of minutes. It will be hot as hell when you get it. We burn our mouth every time. You have been warned.
WHEN YOU BUY A PIE: It doesn’t matter if you fold it and eat it or let it hang and get under it. This stuff is the best. They tape the box closed to piss off those of you who want to steal a slice on the way home.
Frank Graci lets some dough fly at Flying Pizza, Downtown Dayton
— THE SICILIAN SQUARE CHEESE PIZZA: A thicker, more bread like crust, rubbed with olive oil and dusted with garlic and a special marinara sauce. The ending finish is the thick sprinkles of melted mozzarella cheese. It is the cap, on a piece of perfection.
WHEN YOU BUY A SLICE: The slices are Big Squares. Every piece has crust, some have one side of crust, corner pieces have 2 sides,. Very filling, very good.
WHEN YOU BUY A PIE: A big square pizza either 6 or 9 pieces. This stuff is so simple and delicious, yet different than any pizza you have ever tried.
— THE CALZONE: The secret here is they use ricotta cheese in the calzones. The fresh dough seals the deal, literally. The only drawback is that every calzone is Pepperoni and Sausage, so deal with it. Yes, they have one type of calzone.
— SIDE OF 3 MEATBALLS SAUCE and CHEESE: All beef meatballs, marinara and mozzarella, they heat it up, you eat it down. It is like a bowl of cereal for Italian people.
Honorable Mention: The BREADSTICKS at the Centerville location are the closest things to the old Noble Romans that we have ever eaten.
So there is your guide to another epic Food Adventure.
Now take a chance at winning a FREE LARGE PIZZA with ONE TOPPING by leaving a COMMENT BELOW!
A winner will be chosen at random on SATURDAY…
And don’t forget to”like” Food Adventures on Facebook by clicking here!
Pepperoni and Sausage Calzone
Meatballs in sauce with cheese
A peek inside the breadstick bag from the Centerville location
Centerville location bread sticks
Bite into a Square
We buy Pizzas from Flying Pizza and steal slices on the way home
Sicilian Square
The Big Ragu and Tony Graci from Flying Pizza
Deluxe Slice
Slices of heaven
a view to a crust
Frank is able to take phone orders and spin pies at the same time
Sausage slice
2 Dayton Icons
Mikesells and Flying Pizza – matched perfectly
Top that
Special stuff
Door to the famous Original Flying Pizza !
Deluxe love
Clubhouse 22 – Duffy the dog, Malcolm McCloud and John Graci
Meatballs, sauce and cheese
Fork a piece of meatball
Calzones and dipping sauces
The Top 25 Soups of Dayton
Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup from Fresco – Click to Enlarge
As the weather turns colder, nothing warms the soul like a good bowl of soup. Our DaytonMostMetro Food Adventures crew, Chef House, The King, Hungry Jax and The Big Ragu, have compiled our list of Dayton’s Best Soups. From the first steaming spoonful, to that little bit of liquid left in the bottom, these are the best bowls of chow that the Miami Valley has to offer. So, all you serious foodies sit back, get some crackers if need be, and check out our list of MUST EAT soups.
In no particular order, here they are…
DAYTON’S TOP 25 SOUPS
1) THE JUMBALAYA at BUCKIN’ DONKEY GRILLE: For 15 years, owner Sean McKown has perfected his Jumbalaya recipe. He tested it on friends and family, and the end product is a culmination of those efforts. The result is a masterpiece in a cup. Filled with sausage and seafood, it has just the right amount of tangy flavor and heat. We squirt some hot sauce on this bad boy and go to town..
2) CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP from FRESCO: Homemade chicken broth from scratch. Fall off the bone chicken pieces, vegetables tortilla strips and a dollop of sour cream on top. This is one of those moments where you lose yourself in a heavenly bliss. This is the best chicken tortilla soup we have ever eaten, made by the best chef in Dayton, Jenn DiSanto. This soup is Chef House’s favorite !
“The Shrimp and Pork Soup” at Linh’s Bistro is Pho-nomenal !
3) SALMON BISQUE at SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD: Creamy, with fresh salmon chunks, this rich soup is a crowd pleaser. We can’t think of a better soup on a crisp cold day. The fresh thyme, dill and other spices, finish the flavor, making this soup one of our favorites. We already are in love with many of Sweeney’s appetizers, now we have another gem added to the list.
4) THE LOBSTER BISQUE from DELI at WEBSTER ST. & TOP OF THE MARKET: Served piping hot in a generous bowl, we were blown away by the lobster flavor balance with the creaminess of the bisque. The soup is absolutely delicious, and very filling. Congrats to the Deli on Webster & Top of the Market for staying true to the elegance of this soup,yet putting a hearty, delicious spin on it. This is one of The Big Ragu’s favorites !
5) THE SHRIMP and PORK SOUP at LINH’s BISTRO: Welcome to the enormous bowl world of the “Pho Soups” offered at Linh’s Bistro. This meal sized soup contains broth, shaved pork and pieces of shrimp. Sure you can get it with clear rice noodles, but we prefer this Vietnamese soup with the egg noodle option (#34 on the menu). Vegetables and scallions also line the bowl, but that’s not all. The soup is served with a side plate of jalapenos, bean sprouts cilantro and lime. Hand pull some cilantro and dump the rest of the side items into the bowl. This soup defines the words Food Adventure.
The Woodhouse Chili at Archer’s Tavern: A good story behind it
6) THE CABBAGE ROLL SOUP from VOLTZY’s ROOT BEER STAND: The best soup in a root beer stand in the United States. Voltzy homemakes this stuff with cabbage, tomatoes, rice and his signature burger meat. In his words, it is so delicious, it will make you sing “Touch me in the Morning.” Cabbage rolls not your style? Then try his almost equally delicious “Cream of Vandalia Onion Soup.” Yes, Vandalia like the city.. Voltzy is nuts.
7) THE POTATO SOUP at DOUBLEDAY’S GRILL & TAVERN: In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one shines. This soup has wowed Dayton crowds for decades, and has somewhat of a cult following. Doubleday’s large menu makes this a perfect starter to a great meal. The rich, creamy flavor is a great warm up, for a snowy day.
8) THE NEW ORLEANS STYLE GUMBO at JIMMIES LADDER 11: Hearty, rich and just the right spiciness, this soup is one of those “OMG” moments when you take a bite. Owner Jimmie Brandell is no stranger to soups, having cooked at one of the iconic “Upper Krust” locations for years. He hones his craft, and has hit the mark on this one. Order a bowl and wake up your taste buds. Goes perfect with their craft beer selections !
The Warm Goodness of North China’s “Sizzling Rice Soup”
9) THE CHILI AT ARCHER’S TAVERN: Now here is a good story. Every year, Archer’s holds a chili cookoff, and the winning chili goes on the menu for a year. All proceeds from the contest go to the Centerville High School’s Culinary Arts Program! The result is an amazing chili and a charitable donation! The current “Woodhouse Chili” is made with fire roasted tomatoes and jalapenos. It is topped with cheese and Fritos. Probably the spiciest of the delicious soups on our list. That’s why it is “The King’s” favorite on the list.
10) THE CLAM CHOWDER AT BULLWINKLE’S: Clam Chowder at a rib place? The answer is yes, young Jedi. This soup is homemade and downright addicting. Chunks of clams in a mix of potatoes and cream sauce make this one of our “Must Eats.” Not many people know about this soup, but now you do. We are not responsible for any addictions. Make sure you start your meal here with this savory favorite.
11) THE SIZZLING RICE SOUP at NORTH CHINA: This masterpiece is actually a meal sized bowl for 2 as listed on the menu. But sometimes, we get a wild hair, and order this as a meal. Sure you can get this soup as an appetizer, but who wants to share something this good? The flavor is a perfect balance of vegetables and rice in a broth flavored with a hint of salt. In a restaurant known for their homemade soups, this one can’t be ignored. They have another mega soup that almost made our list, the “House Noodle Soup” is a must eat too!
The Lobster Bisque at the Deli at Webster Street is delicious
12) CHICKEN GUMBO from DISALVO’S DELI: Another homemade soup from scratch. Perfectly carved, generous chicken pieces, line a delicately light broth. The bowl is filled with a treasure trove of vegetables and tremendous flavor. Chef Ronnie DiSalvo takes pride in his food, and this is another example of his incredible creations. It is made with love from the heart, straight to your mouth!
13) THE MUSHROOM BISQUE at CHRISTOPHER’S RESTAURANT: Vegetarians rejoice! This Dayton soup is for you. A fresh, home made delicious recipe means a warm feeling in every spoonful. The taste of the fresh mushrooms is incredible. Christopher’s thrives on making quality, homemade soups, and this choice is the star. Check it out and pair it with one of their delicious sandwiches.
14) THE TURTLE SOUP at THE AMBER ROSE: This soup is exotic, thick and hearty. We absolutely love Amber Rose’s spin on this old school favorite. We aren’t sure how traditional it is, but it is beyond good. This is one of those things that you eat and immediately want more. Try it for yourself as an appetizer to an Eastern European meal.
15) THE WILD MUSHROOM SOUP FROM HAWTHORNE GRILL: It is pure comfort in a bowl. The soup is creamy, bold and flavorful. Hawthorne Grill puts out some great dishes, and this is one you need to get your hands on. This weather is the perfect time to try this unique, homemade item.
“The Pickle Soup” at Blind Bob’s is a Dayton Original
16) THE PICKLE SOUP from BLIND BOB’S: Don’t be fooled by the sound of it, this is one of the best soups in Dayton. The flavor isn’t sharp, it is surprisingly level. If you like cream of broccoli soup, this is an even better spin on it. We congratulate Blind Bob’s for not only the uniqueness, but for the amazing taste. This is a great warm up right before you try one of their burger selections!
17) DUBLIN PUB’S “WORLD FAMOUS POTATO SOUP”: It must be world famous, because it is downright incredible. It is rich, filling and sinful. We suggest getting it in the Sourdough bowl and add cheese and bacon on it. We also recommend taking a nap after you eat it. This soup is Hungry Jax’s top pick!
18) CREAMY CHICKEN SOUP at CHINA COTTAGE: This is a house specialty, and we have never seen a creamy chicken soup offered at a Chinese restaurant other than here. There is good reason. No one else’s chicken soup could compare. It is a deliciously light cream soup that cleanses the pallet and readies your taste buds for those spicy dishes made from Chef Tiger Wang. This soup is definitely a Dayton Original.
19) THE GUINNESS ONION SOUP AT NICK’S RESTAURANT: Always made from scratch buy their “soup nazi.” This soup is served in a unique bowl, with a mound of cheese and few gigantic croutons. But what hit us most is the rich flavor. Hot broth dripping down your chin, as you swallow some of the gooey cheese. Take a spoonful and you will see why this restaurant is the pride of Xenia.
“The Chicken Gumbo” at DiSalvo’s Deli. You wont see this online anywhere else, we got the scoop !
20) THE HOT AND SOUR SOUP at YOUNG CHOW: Yes , it made the list because it is that good. And guess what else, the price is right. We scald ourselves every time, because we cant wait to get into this soup’s shredded goodness. A perfect balance of tofu, pepper and pork, this hot and sour soup is fantastic. We looked at your fortune cookie, it says you need to go to Young Chow.
21) HOMEMADE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP from ALL SOUPED UP: The 2nd Street market has some tremendous food shops. In the middle of the market, “All Souped Up” is impressing the masses with creations like their Chicken Noodle Soup. Homemade noodles, pieces of delicate chicken, and a small balance of vegetables make this soup. It tastes like something your mom or grandmother would make. It is fun to take a seat at the market and enjoy this soup and get lost in the goodness.
22) THE COCONUT SOUP at SIAM PAD THAI: Another exotic choice on this list. Cherry tomatoes, lime juice and mushrooms highlight the ingredients in this soup. The tangy, light flavor make this soup the most refreshing on our list. If you have not been to Siam Pad Thai, we suggest you pair it with one of their pad thai dishes, or specialty sushi rolls. We promise you will be craving this soup in no time.
23) THE GUMBO at RUE DUMAINE: This is a no brainer. Hello, the owner/Chef Anne Kearney studied under Food Netwoork superstar, Emeril Lagasse. Needless to say, when it comes to New Orleans’ flavors, she knows what she is doing. This award winning chef has a menu unparalleled n Dayton. We have found the perfect start to a meal at Rue Dumaine.
The Guinness Onion Soup at Nick’s Restaurant in Xenia is sinfully gooey
24) THE CLAM CHOWDER at JAY’S SEAFOOD: When a soup is a Dayton icon and a Dayton staple for decades, it has to make the list. Whether you are 8 years old, or 80, people love this soup and have fond memories associated with it. The creamy broth, the chunks of fresh clams, and the perfect dash of pepper make this soup. Cracker sor not, you are in for a treat when you sit down for a cup or bowl of this deliciousness… so go for the bowl.
25) TEQUILA CHILI at LUCKY’S TAPROOM: Unique blast of flavor from the kitchen at Lucky’s. Owner Andrew Trick has developed an underground mass following of his terrific food, and this chili is a highlight on the menu. They offer a regular or vegetarian option. Recommendation: There is no better pairing on this list than the Tequila Chili and one of Lucky’s numerous craft beers. So go to Lucky’s, thumb through the beer booklet, pick one out, and thank us later.
That’s it, that’s our list ! What did we miss? Do you agree or disagree with our choices ?? Please comment below and tell us your thoughts.
Meanwhile, check out our incredible photo gallery of Dayton’s best soups, below and “like” Food Adventures on Facebook by CLICKING HERE !
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Dayton Food Trivia, Rumors & Secrets You Don’t Know
“Read my lips, I want a damn steak from the Pine Club !”
Today we release some secrets, and Dayton Dining will never be the same again. Call it “Dayton Babylon: Little known trivia relating to Dayton Food and Restaurants.”
Sit back and enjoy, as Food Adventures gives you our favorite foodie trivia of the Miami Valley:
1) THE INVENTOR OF MARION’S PIZZA USED TO BE AN EMPLOYEE OF CASSANO’S:
Yes it is true. Marion Glass was once an employee of Cassanos. After leaving, he opened up a sandwich shop, then later his own pizza place.
2) IN 1988, THE PINE CLUB MADE VICE PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH SR. WAIT 45 MINUTES FOR A TABLE:
Oh, this happened alright. As the story goes, the Vice Prez was forced to wait in his limo until the table was ready. That’s one popular steakhouse !
3) HOUDINI ESCAPES FROM A BARREL OF DAYTON BEER:
The date was December 11th, 1916. The place was at Keith’s Theater downtown, near E. Ludlow Street. Harry Houdini performed the Chinese Water Torture trick with a Dayton twist. He escaped from a 60 gallon barrel filled with Olt’s Beer, a Dayton brewed lager. Maybe Dayton Most Metro can do something similar with Big Ragu on their Brew Tours
Houdini Escaped From Inside a Barrel of Dayton Brewed Beer in 3 minutes
4) TOTENKO SERVES ROACHES TO FOOD CRITIC:
In the late 1970’s, Dayton Daily News Food Critic Ann Heller was writing one of her first articles on the Asian restaurant near the Dayton Mall called “Totenko.” When they served her meal, she noticed there were dead roaches in the food on her plate. The restaurant closed for a few days with the intent to re-open, but it never did. The business would later become Chi Chi’s on State Route 725.
5) THE WRIGHT BROTHERS WERE FOODIES WHO HOSTED HOLIDAY DINNER PARTIES:
The Wright Brothers were known for hosting extravagant dinners at their homes each holiday. They would invite friends and family for these tremendous feasts. Nothing like the food served by today’s airlines…
6) IN 1842, FAMOUS ENGLISH AUTHOR, CHARLES DICKENS, VISITED THE GOLDEN LAMB WEARING A BEAVER HAT AND COMPLAINED BECAUSE THE HOTEL DID NOT SERVE ALCOHOL.
Evidently, he asked for some brandy and was refused due to it being a “temperance hotel” (no alcohol). He even wrote a pissed off passage in his American memoirs about the experience. Sorry Charlie …
7) MIKESELLS IS THE OLDEST POTATO CHIP FACTORY IN THE UNITED STATES AND THE WRIGHT BROTHERS HELPED:
Dayton is home to the oldest potato chip company in the USA, 104 years old and still counting! The kettle cooked Mikesells are pretty much the same chips DW Mikesell peddled in 1910. Speaking of which, when he first starting delivering chips by bicycle, his bike needed repair. The Wright Brother’s bicycle company came to the rescue and DW Mikesell was back delivering chips in no time !
8) THAI 9 USED TO BE A PEANUT FACTORY:
Love the spacious dining room with the wooden floors and upstairs area? That’s because the place used to be a peanut factory. That’s what we were told by management when the restaurant first opened.
Charles Dickens Normally Doesnt ask to Drink Brandy in a Beaver Hat, But When He Does, it is at The Golden Lamb
9) ESTHER PRICE CANDIES USES LOCALLY PRODUCED MILK AND BUTTER IN ALL OF THEIR CANDIES:
How about that, Esther Price was being organic and eating local, before it was cool. You go girl. No wonder we love these chocolates so much! Get on with your bad, creamy self.
10) THE BAR AT JAY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE WAS MADE IN 1882 for JAMES RITTY’S PONY EXPRESS RESTAURANT IN DAYTON:
If you have had a beer or cocktail at the Jay’s Seafood bar, then you have experienced a piece of Dayton history. This huge mahogany bar was made from 5400 pounds of wood. That makes it the coolest bar in town … bar none.
11) IN 1970, PONDEROSA APPOINTED DAYTONIAN JERRY OFFICE to CEO. HE GREW COMPANY REVENUE FROM $42 MILLION to $490 MILLION in the 1980’s:
Oh yes, wide ties, and aerobics with leg warmers couldn’t stop Jerry from bringing the supreme salad buffet to America! Check him out in this 1984 Ponderosa Commerical.
El Meson used to be Pizza Queen International. Click to Enlarge.
12) THE BAR AT SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE IS THE OLD BAR FROM TEQUILA WILLIES BY THE DAYTON MALL:
A little known fact is that this decorative bar, now at Sweeney’s, was the bar at the Tequila Willies Restaurant near the Dayton Mall. The story goes, the previous tenant at Sweeney’s got it at auction and had it installed.
13) THE OWNERS OF PIZZA QUEEN CLOSED THEIR STORE TO OPEN THEIR DREAM RESTAURANT, EL MESON:
Yes, The Castro family decided to dump pizza toppings for tapas. Some Daytonians might have been disappointed at first, but now El Meson is a staple for bringing exotic South American eats to the Miami Valley.
14) THE HOT HEAD BURRITO FRANCHISES STARTED IN DAYTON:
Cynthia Wiley and Raymond Wiley from Kettering came up with the concept, and opened their first store in 2007. It has been a hot commodity since, and they haven’t let it go to their “heads.”
15) THE OLDEST ACTIVE CHINESE RESTAURANT IN DAYTON is CHOP SUEY CARRYOUT:
Since 1973, this oldest active Chinese Restaurant in the Dayton area has been slinging New York style stir fry and Cantonese cuisine. Try the Chop Suey, it will knock your Aunt Connie’s socks off.
16) THE PULL TAB CAN and POP TOP CAN WERE INVENTED BY DAYTON INVENTOR, ERMAL FRAZE:
Ermal’s company, Dayton Reliable Tool Company started making his invention in 1959. When people worried about the sharp edges of the pull tab, he then invented the pop top on today’s cans in 1977. Think of all the beer buzzes and caffeine fixes he made possible. He is obviously the namesake for Fraze Pavillion and the tribute in Warped Wing’s Ermal Beer.
The pull tab was invented by Ermal Fraze of Dayton
17) DAYTON WAS THE 2nd U.S. CITY TO IMPLEMENT THE FOOD STAMPS PROGRAM:
Dayton takes care of it’s impoverished residents.
18) INVENTOR OF THE ICE CREAM SCOOP WITH ANTIFREEZE INSIDE WAS THE OWNER OF THE RED WING ICE CREAM COMPANY IN DAYTON:
Ever use one of those ice cream scoops with antifreeze in it, so the hard ice cream is easy to scoop? According to the owner’s daughter, that scoop was invented in Dayton. Red Wing Ice Cream used to be located near the arcade. Now you know the “scoop.”
19) FOOD NETWORK CHEF MING TSAI’S FAMILY USED TO RUN A RESTAURANT IN THE 1970’s CALLED “THE MANDARIN KITCHEN”:
This restaurant was a pioneer in bringing gourmet Asian Food to Dayton. The Mandarin Kitchen had a cult following. Our memories include the restaurant having this amazing aroma throughout the dining room.
20) THE HAMBURGER WAGON IN MIAMISBURG STARTED BECAUSE OF THE GREAT DAYTON FLOOD OF 1913:
Sherman “Cocky” Porter served his own recipe of hamburgers to the victims of the flood out of a wagon. They were served with no condiments, just pickle, onion, salt and pepper. 101 years later, the wagon is still a Miamisburg and Dayton icon, and the recipe is still the same.
“Ain’t No Party Like a Wright Brothers Party, cuz a Wright Brother’s Party Don’t Stop “
21) CULP’S CAFE IN THE ARCADE WAS THE FIRST DAYTON RESTAURANT TO HAVE AIR CONDITIONING:
People like the sweaty Big Ragu appreciated this. The restaurants hayday was in the 1940’s when they served 5,000 customers a day. Yes, we said each day. The “new” Culp’s Cafe is in Historic Carrillon Park. It is also a ‘cool’ place to hang out ..
22) ORVILLE WRIGHT USED TO TEACH HIS NIECES AND NEPHEWS HOW TO MAKE FUDGE AND HARD CANDY:
Nothing like keeping the kids occupied with a little foodie fun. If things had went differently, he could have been Dayton’s version of Willy Wonka !
23) BRIXX ICE COMPANY IS NAMED BECAUSE THE BUILDING WAS ACTUALLY AN ICE COMPANY THAT SUPPLIED DAYTON IN THE LATE 1800’s:
The restaurant across from the Dayton Dragon’s stadium, used to be an ice company that supplied most of Dayton with ice. They were singing “Ice, Ice, Baby” back in the day!
24) ICE CUBE TRAYS AND FREON REFRIGERANT WERE BOTH DAYTON INVENTIONS.
Ice cube trays were invented in 1959 by Arthur Frei, while Freon Refrigerant was invented by Thomas Midgley Jr. in 1928.
Bet Ya Didnt Know That the Ice Cube Tray Was Invented in Dayton…
25) THE TROPICS, AN ICONIC RESTAURANT ON NORTH MAIN STREET, BROUGHT IN CHEFS FROM CHICAGO.
Now we know how they made their one of a kind cuisine. Luring “windy city chefs” in with lucrative deals. This restaurant seated 700 people at it’s peak during the 60’s and 70’s. At that time it was one of America’s top rated restaurants.
That’s it, thats the list .. hope you found some fun facts ,a and interesting conversation pieces you may not have known. Dayton has a great history of food, and now you know a little more about it!
Did you like our story on Dayton Food Trivia? Then make sure you “like” Food Adventures with Big Ragu and the Crew on FACEBOOK by clicking HERE !!
Check out the gallery below of funny photos relating to Dayton food trivia !
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MikeSell’s Introduces “Beer Can Chicken Flavor” & More…
New “Beer Can Chicken” flavor hits shelves August 22nd
Dayton’s hometown potato chip has done it again. Mikesell’s has released two new, unique flavors in their line of snacks! And Daytonians are the beneficiaries of the great taste.
Looks like you Food Adventurers have a couple more MUST EATS on your list. We were lucky enough to sample a couple of bags before they are out in stores. Here are Food Adventure’s take on the new flavors.
— BEER CAN CHICKEN FLAVORED POTATO CHIPS: We love the name and the idea is unique. The flavor is very muted and soft. Mikesells lovers will find not much variance of flavor from the regular groovy chips. The chips are almost a “Chicken Broth” flavor, so it is very subtle. Eatability factor is a 10 out of 10. We could munch on these all night and day. These are Mikesells for sure! This chip would great with some french onion dip.
— SOUTHWESTERN QUESO CHEESE CURLS: The puffs with no husk are back with a bold flavor. These have a little kick from the jalapeno flavor, but not too much. The perfect amount of zestiness and heat make these cheese curls eatable by the handfuls. Grab a bag of these for a party pleaser snack. Your sassy Food Adventure in a bag
Mikesells two new flavors are definitely a tale of two contrasts. One flavor is fairly subtle, and the other is fairly bold. The one thing that they have in common is they are tasty and addicting. We will be munching these up all over town. Hope you grab a bag and try these Dayton Originals for yourself. They will be available in stores AUGUST 22nd !
Want more Dayton Originals? Then “like” the often imitated, never duplicated “Food Adventures” on Facebook by clicking HERE.
Check out our photos below of the new products from Mikesells !
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Warped Wing & Jimmie’s Ladder 11 Team up for Food Adventure Event July 31st
Dayton’s own brewery, Warped Wing!
It is time to “GET WARPED” at JIMMIES LADDER 11 in July, with a one-night-only, 5 course Food Adventure ! Mark your calendars for July 31st and get your tickets before they sell out !
Only Food Adventures could help deliver such a night. For the first time ever, Dayton’s own WARPED WING BREWING COMPANY will team with Dayton’s own Ladder 11 for and exclusive event!
For all of you who have always wanted to go on a full blown Food Adventure, here’s your chance!
WHAT FOOD: 5 Course dinner at JIMMIE’s LADDER 11. This meal will feature some special menu items, presented and paired, especially for this night.
WHAT DRINK: 3 beers on tap from Dayton’s WARPED WING BREWING CO. paired with 3 food courses and each attendee gets a Warped Wing souvenir pint glass !
MENU FOR THE NIGHT:
COURSE 1: Jimmie’s Homemade Gumbo
COURSE 2: The Cornerstone Salad paired with Ermal’s Belgian Cream Ale from Warped Wing
COURSE 3: Roast Beef Po’ Boy Sandwich paired with Warped Wing’s Flying Rye Pale Ale
COURSE 4: 10 Ton Pulled Pork Quesadilla’s paired with Warped Wing’s 10 Ton Stout
COURSE 5: Double Chocolate Cupcakes topped with 10 Ton Chocolate Gnache.
Jimmie’s Ladder 11, Five course meal, 1 night only
**** Also a SPECIAL AFTER DINNER KEG TAPPING of a NEW WARPED WING BEER – so fresh, we don’t even know yet what the brew will be! The tapping will feature special drink prices on pints !
You can also expect The Big Ragu to pass out some samples of a favorite Jimmie’s Food Truck item.
WHEN: THURSDAY NIGHT, JULY 31st at 6:30pm
COST: $30 per person (pre-pay only) and that includes the tip !!!! Tickets may only be bought online here. We are expecting another sellout, so get your tickets now !
WHAT ELSE: Door prizes, gift cards, t-shirt giveaways, souvenir pint glass, meet and greet with Jimmie and the Ladder 11 family, and a look at the brand new Jimmie’s food truck with The Big Ragu!
Don’t miss this unique, one-of-a-kind Food Adventure! See you at Jimmie’s in July !!
BUY TICKETS Now– limited seating available, when spots are gone, they are gone !
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Ring in the New Year with First Friday Fun
Jan. 3 First Friday to Feature Art Exhibits, Live Music, Ice Skating & More
Downtown’s next free First Friday event will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3.
Several businesses will offer post-holiday shopping sales and discounts. Students can represent their schools during a School Pride Ice Skate at RiverScape MetroPark and the monthly Courteous Mass bike ride will seek to light up the night.
Details are below about other events taking place at participating locations during the Jan. 3 First Friday.
Art
• CADC, 45 S. St. Clair St.: Featuring an after-holidays close-out sale with appetizers and eggnog to snack on while shopping. Call 313-9883.
• Clash Consignment, 521 E. Fifth St.: Showing art exhibit Sight Sizeby Adam Mitchell and Stephanie Riolo with live music by the Left Hooks. Call 241-9434.
• Color of Energy, 16 Brown St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Reception with Abby Rose who will discuss her involvement in the art community and her new position as events director for Mike Elsass. Call 266-3491.
• Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North: (Open until 8 p.m.)Showing the exhibits Object of Devotion and A Buckeye Abroad: Frank Wilcox in Paris. Call for cost. 223-4278.
• Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors, 48 High St.: (Open until8 p.m.) Exhbiting work from new members and serving light refreshments. Call 228-4532.
• Dayton Visual Arts Center 118 N. Jefferson St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Exhbiting paintings by Zachary Armstrong. Call 224-3822.
• Gallery 510 Fine Art, 508 E. Fifth St.: Featuring new artwork and gifts by a variety of artists. Call 672-6717.
• Olive, an Urban Dive, 416 E. Third St.: Hosting “Buy It off the Wall,’ featuring the up-close nature photography of Diane Stava available for purchase, and offering Esther Price hot chocolate to go. Also featuring Olive’s new winter menu. Call 222-3483.
Music
• Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m., $2.50 well drinks, 75 cents off bourbon and other drink specials. Music by Cherry Lee and the Hotrod Hounds, and The Sandwich. Call 938-6405.
• De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. during a mix and mingle with downtown business professionals. Call 461-2233.
• Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave.: Featuring happy hour until 6 p.m., a performance by the Miami Valley Pipe and Drum group starting at 6 p.m., and live music from Mothergrove starting at 9 p.m. Call 224-7822.
• Gilly’s, 132 S. Jefferson St.: Old Skool Groove Night from 8 p.m. to midnight. Call 228-8414.
• Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St.: Featuring half-price pizza from 4 to 8 p.m. and live music by Linda Prevo and South Side Slackers from8:30 p.m. Call 223-9205.
• Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St.: Live music starting at 9:30 p.m. and happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Call 461-1101.
Food and Drink
• Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St.: $2 tastings of select wines. Call 225-9463.
• Franco’s Ristorante Italiano, 824 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 222-0204.
• Lucky’s Taproom and Eatery, 520 E. Fifth St.: Dinner specials, along with the special tapping of a firkin of craft beer. Call 222-6800.
• Riff Raff Tavern on the Canal, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.: Drink specials offered throughout the night. Call 361-3131.
• Salar, 400 E. Fifth St.: DJ in the lounge and drink specials starting at10 p.m. Call 203-3999.
• Smokin’ Bar-B-Que, 200 E. Fifth St.: 10 percent off food. Call 586-9790.
• Thai 9, 11 Brown St.: 15 percent off food. Call 222-3227.
• Uno Chicago Grill, 126 N. Main St.: 10 percent off food. Call 910-8000.
Entertainment
• Don Crawford Plaza in front of Fifth Third Field, 220 N. Patterson Blvd.: The monthly Courteous Mass Ride will meet at 5:30 p.m. This month will be a glow-ride. Dress up your bike with lights, wear glow bracelets or necklaces — anything to make you glow. All tours are free and welcome any skill level.
• Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center, 400 E. Fifth St., Suite C: (Open until 8 p.m.) Featuring teen artist Sarah Libassi, along with activities for families and light refreshments. Call 723-6747.
• The Neon, 130 E. Fifth St.: Call 222-SHOW (7469) for films and show times.
• RiverScape MetroPark, MetroParks Ice Rink, 111 E. Monument Ave: School Pride Night Ice skate from 7 to 10 p.m.; $7 includes admission and skate rental; half-priced admission available with student ID. Call 278-2607.
• Wiley’s Comedy Niteclub, 101 Pine St.: Featuring comedian Steve Lott. Shows begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $12 per person. Call 224-5653.
Shopping
• American Pi, 41 S. St. Clair St.: Featuring a store-wide 50 percent off sale (contact store for details). Call 938-7890.
• Beaute Box, 116 W. Fifth St.: Free makeup lessons. Call 903-3165.
• Found Treasures 4 You, 502 Wayne Ave.: Offering 20 percent off everything in the store. Call 580-8803.
• ReCreate, 438 E. Fifth St.: Sale on select items, including new and used instruments, other music-related items, and original artwork. Call 321-3517.
• Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.: Offering 10 percent off all independent patterns and sweet treats from the 2nd street market. Call 234-7398.
• Sherwood Florist, 444 E. Third St.: (Open until 8 p.m.) Offering 10 percent off all in-store items. Call 298-3655.
• Spice Paradise, 8 Brown St.: Offering samples of Indian food to visitors. Call 224-3227.
Come out to enjoy all the best that Dayton has to offer!
