Bada Bing! Pizzeria, Springfield, Ohio – NOW CLOSED

28 May 201531 August 2024

Update: Bada Bing! is now closed.

It was a chilly afternoon and I had not yet tried Bada Bing! Pizzeria which had relocated to a larger space on Springfield, Ohio’s historic Fountain Avenue.

Bada Bing! Pizzeria became a national sensation when in 2015, the owner, Jason Hague, posted a flyer on the door of his business inviting anyone who did not have any money or was hungry to celebrate Thanksgiving with him and his family. It was such an overwhelming act of kindness that when someone shared his invitation on social media, it went viral and landed him publicity with Fox News all over the country. Donations poured in to supplement the cost of Jason’s offer to those in need. He was pleasantly overwhelmed and thankful for those who unexpectedly contributed to his cause. On Thanksgiving Day, Bada Bing! was able to feed close to 100 people.

But for those who live in Springfield, Bada Bing! has been a hit with its locals since bringing gourmet pizzas and friendly service to town.

Bada Bing’s humble beginnings found itself in a small neighborhood of Springfield where it quickly outgrew its space. Working with other locals to revive the downtown area, they found a location on North Fountain Avenue and began the tumultuous work of installing updates and renovations. With a new wood fire stove, they also expanded their kitchen space downstairs.

In addition to Bada Bing!’s extreme generosity, what I love about this downtown eatery is that they are serving gourmet pizzas with unique flavor combinations. All of their pies are baked in the woodfire stove, just like an Italian pizzeria.

The Kickin’ Kung Pow Chicken with a spicy teriyaki sauce is crazy delicious and one of my favorites. Loaded with cheese, grilled chicken, garlic green peppers, red onion, crushed red pepper and peanuts. This fascinating mix of flavors will have you ordering another before the week is over. Other selections include the Vampire Slayer, the F-Bomb and the Dirty SOB, but if you are in the mood for a super, rich, breathtaking eating experience, order the C.B.R made with garlic butter sauce, four cheeses, grilled chicken, bacon, red onions, tomatoes, and topped with MORE garlic (roasted minced) and ranch sauce.

I was having a difficult time deciding which pizza to order when I learned I could try two different flavor combinations on one pie. I couldn’t pass up the Kickin’ Kung Pow while the other half was the more mild Mona Lisa, with mozzarella, tomatoes and basil. On a later visit I ordered the Award Winning Goombah with lots of spice.

In addition to upscale pizza flavors and decadent sides, Bada Bing! serves craft beer. Nothing goes better with an outstanding pizza than a nice cold brew. I ordered the Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale and the Bell’s Oberon at the excellent advice from my knowledgeable server.

A list of Bada Bing!’s beers on tap are posted on the chalk board to the right of the checkout station. There is also a generous number of wines and a cooler filled with bottled beers as well.

So the word is out about Bada Bing!’s pizza and the locals are loving it. I can’t wait to delve into their calzones, salads, grinders, desserts and appetizers, especially the cinnamon knots and the garlic knots.

Bada Bing!’s can be summed up as a company with fabulous food, awesome customer service and an owner with a big heart. That is a trifecta for success and a pizzeria I feel proud to support. And just as their logo states, “It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Bada Bing!”

Do you have a favorite local pizzeria? I would love to hear about it and which pizzas you enjoy if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bada Bing! Pizzeria
40 North Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 390 1300

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone; 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Hafle Winery’s menu offers a wonderful selection of appetizers, sandwiches, dinners and salads. The winery hosts popular weekend cookouts with live music entertainment.

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus, Ohio

21 May 201531 August 2024

Updated October 8, 2018

The winter months are a perfect time to visit local museums and conservatories. For a warm, colorful break from the dreary cold, explore the Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio. Starting in January, the conservatory displays hundreds of orchids and tropical plants that will momentarily transport you to the balmy islands of the southern hemisphere. The conservatory will be flooded with the invasion of exotic flowers from all over the world and is a welcome getaway within the city of Columbus, Ohio.

Exotic Orchid Display

Delicate Butterfly Collecting Nectar

Shortly after the Orchid Exhibit, the Franklin Park Conservatory will host the Blooms & Butterflies exhibit where the butterflies, after having been held captive in their cocoon, will emerge from their pupa as a new creature. The artwork of nature is displayed in the wings of the butterfly and is unique in each species, from its color to its design. The exhibit begins mid- March and will continue on through the summer until mid-September when the last of the butterflies are released into the wild.

The Exceptional Artistic Talent of Dale Chiluly

Permanent art collections are on display at the conservatory which includes the colorful works of Dale Chiluly, a world renowned artist of glass. The items exhibited throughout the venue were purchased from Chiluly’s exposition in 2003. The whimsical characteristics of each piece as well as the unique, vibrant shades of color make each design a masterpiece of artistic expression.

Franklin Park Conservatory hosts several exhibitions throughout the year and upcoming events are posted on their website. Over the fall, there were four exhibitions in the month of October to include “Field” and “Bonsai Display” open until November 14, 2015 and “Topiaries at the Conservatory” and “Harvest Blooms” lasted until October 25, 2015. In addition, the venue schedules a wide variety of classes, outreach programs and special events for both Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts Organizations. The conservatory’s hours are 10am to 9pm, closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. General Admission, ages 13 – 59, is $14 per person. Seniors 60 years of age and older are $11 while children between the ages of 3 – 12 may enter for $7 per child. Members and children 2 and under are admitted at no charge. Check out the Conservatory’s website for the most updated information on the sponsored events.

For a list of camps, classes, outreach and school programs, visit the Education & Programs tab on the Franklin Park’s Conservatory and Botanical Garden’s website.

The conservatory’s Botanica Giftshop and Greenhouse offers unique merchandise and exclusive gifts, including plants and children’s items. The giftshop is open from 10am to 9pm daily.

The Garden Café is open weekdays from 11am to 3pm with weekend hours from 11am to 4pm. The Food Truck is open from Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 3pm. Garden Café’s menu offers made from scratch sandwiches, salads and soups (Garden Cafe only) as well as baked goods and snacks. In addition to soft drinks, coffee and tea, beer and wine are also available.

Please note that the information provided here is subject to change, so refer to Franklin Park Conservatory’s website for the most up to date information or call them directly at 614 715 8000.

So the next time you are looking for something to do and want to stay warm indoors, stop by the conservatory for the opportunity to experience nature year around.

I would love to hear about your favorite museum, theater or conservatory that you enjoy visiting in the winter months. Please leave a comment below and tell me about your favorite venue! Many thanks for reading about my therapeutic experience at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
1777 East Broad Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Telephone: 614 715 8000

Admission Fee: $18 per person (ages 13 – 59); $15 for Seniors (60+); $11 for children 3 – 12); Members and children under 2 are FREE
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas); Garden Café: 11AM – 3PM (Monday – Friday) and 11AM – 4PM on weekends; Botanica Gift Shop: 10AM – 5PM Check the Franklin Park and Conservatory website for the hours of operation of the John F. Wolfe Palm House
Amenities: gift shop, café, conservatory map, special events and educational programs
Guided Tours and Conservatory Map: Guided Tours are available for groups of 15 or more. Map available online or at the conservatory
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours and an additional 1 hour if you intend to enjoy lunch
Tips for Your Visit: Check the conservatory’s website for special events such as the Butterfly Exhibit and Orchids. During the summer, the conservatory hosts a Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays.

Where to Stay:

The Lofts Hotel
55 E. Nationwide Blvd.
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Telephone: 614 461 2663

Where to Eat:

The Garden Cafe, inside Franklin Park Conservatory
1777 East Broad Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Telephone: 614 715 8130

Salad, sandwiches and soups are made from local, seasonal ingredients grown at the conservatory. Save room for delicious desserts and homemade pastries.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
North Market: A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
The Thurman Cafe: The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village. There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant: While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read:

Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus:

Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
Columbus Museum of Art: the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
Everal Barn and Homestead: landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
Frank Fetch Park: gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
Franklin Park Conservatory: beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
Gantz Park: barn, beautiful trees,
German Village: brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
Grove City: brick roads, small town, shopping area
Hayden Falls – wooden walking path, waterfall
Historical Village of Hilliard: a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
Inniswood Metro Gardens: gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
Ohio State University: campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
Park of Roses in Clintonville: various types of rose gardens
Riverfront Park: city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Schiller Park: gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
Scioto Mile: city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Scioto Park in Dublin: statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
Short North: restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
Topiary Park: depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Additional Photos

Incidental Cruise Line Costs

14 May 201531 August 2024

Have you ever booked a discounted cruise and realized that there were additional charges that you did not factor in the total cost of your trip? Here are some hidden costs that may take you by surprise:

Cruise Ship Taxes: The base rate of the cruise is usually listed on advertisements and websites, but it is important to know that this is not the final total that you will be paying for the cruise part of your vacation. There are those little additional fees called taxes. These include tax on the cruise as well as taxes that are charged by the Port Authority of the various ports that you will be visiting on your trip. These fees are not controlled by the cruise lines, but rather the government agencies or states that govern the port.

Drinks: Many cruise travelers are surprised to learn that soda is not included in the drinks that are available on the ship. Of course alcohol is an additional charge and this includes wine unless you happen to be sailing on a European cruise where wine and well drinks may be included.

Coffee Shop Drinks: One of the best services brought on board cruise ships is the inclusion of specialty coffee options. There are stands that are usually set up around the ship that offer cappuccinos, macchiatos, frappuccinos, etc. and may be available 24 hours or at posted times according to the coffee stands and/or ship’s itinerary for the day. Specialty coffee drinks require the services of a barista, which is why there is an additional charge for an afternoon caffeine boost. Don’t be surprised when you receive a bill for the service and you may want to check to see if a tip was already included as well.

Water in your room: Just as in hotels, the bottled water provided to you in your stateroom is not free (unless otherwise indicated). There is usually a fee for drinking this water and a receipt for the bottled water will be provided to you at some point in your cruise.

Wine Corkage Fee: So you have decided to order a bottle of wine and notice that when the bar service representative presents you with the receipt that there is a “wine corkage fee”, your first instinct may be to ask why you are paying an additional fee on top of the wine that you had purchased for your meal. What could this possibly cover? Interestingly enough, this fee is included for the service of opening the wine as well as providing wine glasses and chilling or storing the wine depending on the type that you have purchased. I consider it a small token for the additional service that is offered to you by the bar staff.

Room Service Fee: Room service can be very convenient, especially during the one or two hours where a buffet is not available. Many cruises will offer a 24 hour pizza delivery service, but of course, there is a fee for them to deliver the pizza. It’s a small price to pay for the luxury of having food delivered to your room, but again, it is available and you need to know that there is an additional charge added to your bill. The information will be outlined in the daily schedules that are provided to you during your cruise.

Gratuities (bar, room attendant, waiter, busboy): In the good old days, before computers and technology, tips to service staff included an envelope in each passenger’s stateroom. It was the passenger’s responsibility to tip each of the service staff for their work over the number of days that they cruised. Of course, the cruise director would provide the standard tipping rates and passengers could provide more (or less) as they saw fit for tipping. Today, the tips are already included in the total cost at the close of the ship’s journey. You can choose to keep the charges on your credit card, pay cash or challenge the amount that was predetermined at the front desk. Just remember, the service staff work very hard to make your vacation as enjoyable as possible, so even if you decide to forego the dining hall and eat at the snack shop, keep in mind, that the minimal charge that is added to your bill may be a big help to the service staff, as they depend on these tips for their livelihood.

Shore Excursions: Most people know by now, that if the ship offers shore excursions, there will be a fee for signing up. These outings are optional, but depending on the port of call, you may decide that you want to see your destination with the assistance of a tour guide, most of whom are local residents. The ship usually provides a wide range of port options ranging from a day at the beach to a full day of port exploration. When using the internet, you can select which trips you want to take while you are in port and you can determine which ports you may want to adventure on your own. Just note that if you purchase excursions apart from the ship’s offerings, you will want to ensure that you board the ship at the designated time or the ship will depart without you. Please be aware that the tour guides welcome tips, so be prepared to have an amount of cash as you see appropriate.

Laundry service: Did you know that some ships offer laundry service for its customers? Most likely you will find this service available on “world cruises”, but you may want to check into this service if you plan on taking an extended cruise. This helps you plan accordingly for packing and can also save you luggage fees for flights if you travel light. You can leave your laundry in a bag, the room steward will pick up the laundry and you will receive you cleaned belongings ironed and folded in perfect condition. This of course will incur a fee and you may feel obliged to tip your room steward as well.

Exercise Classes/Gym Use: On most of the ships I have traveled, there is a gym as well as a spa on board. There may or may not be a gym fee, but spa services are not included in the cruise rate and an additional fee will be charged according to the spa menu. You may also note in your daily itinerary the various workout classes that are being offered on the ship and something may peak your interest. Read the fine print to see if there is an additional charge for attending the class and again, if you find the service to your liking, you can opt to tip the instructor as well.

I suppose it is obvious that there are additional items where one could spend money on a cruise ship, such as gambling, internet use, purchases from the gift shop, bingo and raffles. But if you plan accordingly, these additional fees and charges will not come as a surprise. This will allow you to enjoy your vacation without stressing about the final bill, which will appear in your room the night before departure. When in doubt, contact the front desk to keep your charges in check or if you have any questions about the status of your charges, they will be happy to help.

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Mike & Rosy’s Deli: A Springfield, Ohio Institution

7 May 201531 August 2024

I had a friend in high school, Joanna, whose father was a professor at nearby Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. I always admired her because she was so smart and had such great experiences having access to the nearby college campus and its restaurants.

I remembered that she talked about hanging out at Mike & Rosy’s deli, located on McCreight Avenue. The deli was considered a Wittenberg institution for local college students for as long as I could remember. The closest I had ever been to the restaurant was passing by in our car on our way to church on Sundays.

Mike Rosencrans (“Rosy”) Mike Wagner founded Springfield’s local deli in March of 1977, forty-five years ago. I couldn’t wait to try their famous steamed Reuben Sandwich, a bag of kettle chips and delicatessen pickles.

Waiting for my made-to-order sandwich, I climbed the stairs to check out Rosy’s press box where locals stop by to watch the latest sports game with access to a full-service bar. There are also televisions in each room for overflow that seats up to 50 visitors.

As a former Athletic Director at Wittenberg University, Rosy knew a lot about sports, was a friendly guy and loved to great the deli’s customers.

The refrigerators are a great place to pick up a couple of take-out side items in addition to their the sandwiches.

From the counter where I ordered my lunch, I could watch the servers making several sandwiches ahead of mine. The location of the deli was once a gas station in the 1960s and 70s but expanded in 1981 with the addition of the dining room. In 1983, Mike and Rosy’s expanded their kitchen and added the Pressbox in 2006. The walls in the dining room display all types of sports memorabilia including photos and a variety of jerseys from college and professional sports.

I spent a few minutes browsing the jerseys on the wall and soon my Reuben was ready. I found a seat near one of the televisions mounted on the wall to watch the Cincinnati Bengals game and enjoyed my sandwich dripping with Thousand Island dressing and sauerkraut. In addition to creating thick, juicy sandwiches from Boar’s Head meats, Mike & Rosy’s success comes from their continued support of local sports teams and their deep love of the Springfield community.

Have you visited Mike & Rosy’s Deli in Springfield, Ohio? What did you order? I would love to hear about your stop at one of my favorite hometown restaurants if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

What to See and What to Do:

Mike & Rosy’s Deli
330 W. McCreight Avenue
Springfield, OH 45202
Telephone: 937 390 3511

Where to Stay:

Courtyard Marriott Springfield
100 S. Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Heart of Country Gift Shoppe and Teaberries Cafe
1600 E. Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH 45505
Telephone: 937 325 3030

I could spend hours strolling the Heart of Country Shoppe, but when I visit, I can’t wait to have lunch at Teaberries. I always start my lunch with a piece of yummy, moist orange bread. Known for their wide varieties of chicken salad sandwiches, I always revert to the House Favorite, the Midwest Delight, served on a butter croissant. If you have room, try their homemade carrot cake or peanut butter pie.

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Moving to the OC, 2004

30 April 201531 August 2024

I was so excited when I was offered a clinical trial position in Southern California. I had a couple of weeks to pack my belongings and make the cross country move. My brother had a few friends who said they would help me pack and then he would drive with me to San Clemente and stay for a few days enjoying the California coast.

After a couple of nights in hotels, we finally arrived and rested an additional night before moving into my second floor, one-bedroom apartment. With some help from my new colleagues, we finally completed the move and had some time to visit the beach before sunset. Fishermen cast their poles over the edge in hopes of catching their dinner. We opted to visit Fisherman’s Restaurant on the pier.

We found a parking spot in the lot surrounded by palm trees and I wanted to step onto the beach and was curious to see if the water was cold. We learned that the haze was a part of June Gloom which is what the locals call the month of June. The temperature is a consistent 70 degrees most of the days in San Clemente and all year around.

The sunset was an incredible golden and orange as it set out into the horizon. From that moment, I promised myself that I would make my way to the beach each night just to witness the beauty of the setting sun.

It was darker now as we drive through the center of town, back to Avenida Vista Montana. I could definitely become accustomed to the beauty of SoCal and will make the most of it as long as I am here.

Have you ever moved to a new state or country and felt like you had just moved to paradise? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave

What to See and What to Do:

Walk the San Clemente Beach

Where to Eat:

The Fisherman Restaurant at San Clemente Pier
611 Avenida Victoria
San Clemente, CA 82672
Telephone: 949 498 6390

What to Eat:

Dungeness Crab
Seafood Chowder
Pan-Fried Oysters

Where to Stay:

Casablanca Inn
1601 North East El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA
Telephone: 888 639 3053

What to Read:

California Girl, by T. Jefferson Parker

Photo Guide for San Clemente:

Calafia Beach Park
Del Mar Street
Outlets San Clemente
Pico Park
San Clemente Beach Trail
San Clemente Pier
The Triton Wall

Dyer’s Mill, Hiking at Battelle Darby Creek

23 April 201531 August 2024

With below freezing temperatures and a couple of inches of water at the start of the trail, I almost considered turning back to reschedule my day hike at Battelle Darby Creek. The Dyer Mill Trail starts at Darby Creek Drive in Galloway and is a 2.5 mile loop trail that takes about an hour and a half to complete. I wanted to test out my new hiking boots anyway, so this would be the perfect opportunity.

Towards the start of the trail, there was a fork in the road but regardless of which path I took, I would return where I started on this loop hike. Surrounded by trees and woods for nearly an hour, I arrived at a clearing. The scenery was what I gad expected from a winter hike and I was hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife brave enough to venture out in the cold. I happened upon a few birds, but up until that time, there was no sign of life. I continued along the path of sallow greens and browns, and searched through my binoculars to see eagles, hawks or even vultures among the soothing silence.

The pathway was a mix of grass and gravel and perfect for cross-country skiers after a winter snowfall. Ranked as moderately difficult, there were a couple of hills that were somewhat steep but not incapacitating.

The snow struggled to blanket the field as it melted under the warming temperatures. I could hear the crunching of ice under my boots as I made my way towards a bridge on the trail. I stopped to check how my boots were holding up and put my scarf in my backpack.

The snow-covered trail widened under the trees and cleaned the dirt out of my boots. I was surprised at how comfortable I felt in the cold and was happy my feet were surviving the breaking in of my new boots. By the visible impressions in the snow, I was hoping to find some animal prints.

Walking further along, Little Darby Creek appeared to my left and I could hear the faint sound of its rippling downstream. I managed to walk down to its bank to touch the water and it was absolutely freezing. There were islands of ice in several spots along the waterway and I realized, that in just a couple of weeks, they will have melted and the scenery will have changed.

I finally reached the steep climb, and I was thankful that there was neither ice nor snow on the hill. The fallen leaves provided great traction and I felt the remainder of the trek should be easy.

I approached another patch of snow and decided to follow it into the woods where it remained untouched by hikers. I finally came upon some animal footprints which made me think about the hibernating wildlife and those who have ventured out into the cold for food. I felt a happiness knowing that these nature preserves protect the adorable creatures and nearby land so we can enjoy them for years to come.

I was near the end of the trail coming back to where I had started. This was the section of the trail that was flooded, but lucky for me, my waterproof boots had passed the test.

I was satisfied that my boots had passed the waterproof test and spending time in the outdoors during winter was especially invigorating. I was happy that I continued with my hike that day and it was a beautiful, quiet afternoon to explore Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park.

What to See and What to Do:

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
1775 Darby Creek Drive
Galloway, OH 43119
Telephone: 614 891 0700

Admission Fee: There is no admission fee for visiting the park.
Hours: Cedar Ridge Area: Open daily from 6:30AM to 10PM (April through September) and from 6:30AM to 8PM from October through March; All other park areas close at dark year-round
Amenities: shelter rental, lodge, biking, canoeing/kayaking, cross country skiing, fishing, hunting, ice skating, natural play areas, nature centers, picnicking, pets and sledding
Scenic Views: Viewing area for bison watching
Length of your Visit: 2 – 3 hours for hiking, nature center and bison viewing
Tips for Your Visit: Check the metro park’s website for special events, shelter rentals and trail maps.

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Grove City
1668 Buckeye Place
Grove City, OH 43123
Telephone: 614 782 8292

Where to Eat:

Ann & Tony’s Restaurant
211 East Main Street
West Jefferson, OH 43162
Telephone: 614 879 8897

I absolutely love Ann & Tony’s Fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp, served with a tossed salad, rolls and garlic butter.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
North Market: A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
The Thurman Cafe: The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village. There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant: While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read:

Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus:

Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
Columbus Museum of Art: the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
Everal Barn and Homestead: landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
Frank Fetch Park: gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
Franklin Park Conservatory: beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
Gantz Park: barn, beautiful trees,
German Village: brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
Grove City: brick roads, small town, shopping area
Hayden Falls: wooden walking path, waterfall
Historical Village of Hilliard: a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
Inniswood Metro Gardens: gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
Ohio State University: campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
Park of Roses in Clintonville: various types of rose gardens
Riverfront Park: city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Schiller Park: gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
Scioto Mile: city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Scioto Park in Dublin: statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
Short North: restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
Topiary Park: depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

The Tavernette Inn Delivers with Grouper and Risotto- NOW CLOSED

16 April 201531 August 2024

Update: October 12, 2021 – 316 Tap & Barrel Grill has closed permanently due to COVID; June 19, 2020 – The Tavernette is now 316 Tap & Barrel Grill

I had just returned from having my haircut in Tipp City, Ohio and I was so excited to try the Tavernette Inn. I had driven by this restaurant in Medway for over a couple of years and a small kiosk on the side of Spangler Road beckoned me to stop by and experience this hidden gem.

Stepping inside I was greeted by Pat who has been bartending here for over 30 years. I could hear 70’s music on the radio intercom when I was seated by the hostess and recognized a few of these tunes.

She introduced herself as Olivia and mentioned that she would be serving me that night as she took my drink order and dropped off a menu. I couldn’t resist a Yuengling and took a few moments to look over the night’s specials. Fish and Chips are the special for Monday nights and they have been one of their best sellers since the 1960s. Their carbonara is another one of their specialty dishes but I was drawn in by their specials.

Who can resist Grouper risotto with a salad for $17.95?

The black and white retro tables and chairs reminded me of eating family dinner at my Grandparents’ house.

I had a few moments to check out the glass enclosures of local memorabilia. Lining the walls, I felt as though I was eating in the midst of a museum.

Enjoying a basket of bread with brown and garlic brothers, I learned that the restaurant first opened in 1939. New owners had recently bought the restaurant a year ago and were bringing some amazing dishes to their menu.

My next course was a salad with ranch dressing, which was the perfect size to hold me over before my main dish.

I must admit I couldn’t wait to bite into the succulent grouper which was perfectly seasoned, buttered and baked. The risotto was amazing with red pepper and mushrooms which was so creamy and deliciously rich served al dente. It was no surprise when I learned that chef John’s specialties are seafood, namely shark and that he makes everything fresh from local produce.

After finishing dinner, I decided to browse around the restaurant and took a little walk outside along the creek in the back where they had set up a fire pit. I noticed a newly built deck that overlooked Mud Creek as well as additional parking spaces across the street for dinner hours.

The back bar was closed for the weeknight but listed the night’s drink special as the Long Island Iced Tea. This is the place to be on a summer night during the weekends where they have bands or DJs playing classic rock and country music and in the wintertime, they will light a fire.

I had a few minutes to talk with John the owner who is from nearby Park Layne. They had just celebrated their one year anniversary of the restaurant on May 5^th, 2016. John had an engineering degree but had been wanting to have his own business. John had first learned that the owners of the restaurant were interested in selling as he had been retired for 30+ years and wanted a change.

I learned from John the history of the Tavernette Inn started with a butcher block from 1939. From here they would cut meat for their local patrons until the 1960s. In addition, the original restaurant was across the street and relocated to its current space in the late 1930s.

I decided to have one last drink at the bar and ordered a glass of Tulip Red Wine which reminded me of Rodeo Red from the Winery at Versailles. I sat next to a couple who mentioned that the Tavernette Inn was where they had their first prom date in the 1960s.

It was fun talking with Pat about the restaurant, having bartended here for thirty-five years. Originally from Troy, he recently moved to New Carlisle. He began his career here as a dishwasher after spending 12 years in the Air Force and bartending at the NCIO club.

Pat swears that the restaurant is haunted by Wiladena when at times diners have noticed beer bottles move. According to Pat, she swore she would haunt the place when she passed. Luckily, she did not try to take my glass of wine.

Have you visited The Tavernette Inn in Medway, Ohio? What did you order? I would love to hear about your experience at this longstanding restaurant if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Thank you for reading about my visit to The Tavernette and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and Do:

Tavernette Inn
111 W. Main Street
Medway, OH 45341
Telephone: 937 849 0423

Check out all of the specials and ask your server what they suggest. I thoroughly enjoyed the grouper and risotto.

Where to Stay:

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Springfield
1751 W 1st Street
Springfield, OH 45504
Telephone: 937 322 2200

Where to Eat:

Tavernette Inn
111 W. Main Street
Medway, OH 45341
Telephone: 937 849 0423

Favorite Photos of Columbus, Ohio

9 April 201531 August 2024

When I purchased my first DSLR camera, I would spend hours in the nearby neighborhoods of Columbus, Ohio taking photos. Here are some of my favorites!

Miranova

The Columbus Dispatch

The Scioto Mile

Downtown

Directional Post

Emblem on the Bridge

North Market

Hyde Park: A Short North Restaurant

Short North

Columbus’ Italian Village

Marcella’s

Architecture and Art

Artwork

Short North Tavern

The Bar at Rigsby’s

Nida’s

Strolling Downtown Columbus

Mad Mex

Ugly Tuna Saloona

Schiller Park

German Village

Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant

Rowers along the river

Broad and High

Our Hero Sandwich Shop in Springfield, Ohio

2 April 201531 August 2024

While I have always been a Subway fan, I thought it would be a great change to check out one of my hometown’ local sandwich shops, Our Hero.

The first time I had ever visited an Our Hero sandwich shop was on a Sunday afternoon after church. My youngest sister had lived nearby and she suggested we stop to order a sub sandwich for a quick, healthier meal. She explained that this was not just any sandwich shop but Our Hero, well known for their fresh made-to-order sandwiches. I remember walking through the door for the first time, smelling the delicious aroma of fresh baked bread. I couldn’t wait to order.

Looking over the menu, there were several options, but I learned quickly that they were famous for their Italian sub with baked ham, Genoa salami, pepperoni, capicola ham, provolone cheese, plus The Works, their super delicious oil and vinegar dressing with special spices.

I have to admit that Our Hero soon became one of my favorite stops when I moved closer to her neighborhood. Of course, it was also close to Schuler’s Donuts, another hometown favorite, so I was in a win-win situation. Soon, I would be ordering the Italian sub multiple times per week until I eventually moved to Cincinnati. When I return to visit family, you can be sure I will be making a stop at Our Hero to order an Italian sub or two.

Have you visited Our Hero in Springfield, Ohio? Is it one of your favorite places? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Where to Eat:

Our Hero
2983 Derr Road
Springfield, OH 45503
937 399 8644

Plum Run Winery Soon to Offer Craft Beer

26 March 201531 August 2024

Plum Run Winery had just completed their renovations to provide its customers a larger space for sampling its award-winning wines and hard cider. I was looking forward to visiting this Grove City winery, so I called my friend Karen to join me for the afternoon.

The winery, offering a wide selection of wines, includes a few of the sweeter wines most popular in the state of Ohio. These varietals include dessert wines, sweet reds and roses as well as a lovely selection of fruit wines. Here are the list of wines that we selected for our tasting:

Apple: The winery buys their apples from Hugo’s, a local orchard. The color of the wine is yellow and a bit cloudy. It has a delicious taste that ends with a bit of a bite. It is described as “a blend of Gold Rush, Winesap and Yellow Delicious Apples, Ohio Grown!” 5% RS, $15 bottle, $6 glass

Niagara: Plum Run Winery’s classic “Ohio Sweet Wine”; I really enjoyed this one and Karen did as well. 5% RS, $13 bottle, $6 glass
Scioto Red: The combination between the Niagara and Concord grapes, this wine is described as a “sweet red wine that is light, fruity and aromatic”; Two sweet grapes that make the perfect combination that we enjoyed so much we picked up a couple of bottles. 4% RS; $13 bottle $6 glass
Cranberry: Described as “tart and sweet with the aromas of pure cranberry juice”, this wine also ranks high on my list; 8$ RS, $18 bottle $6 glass
Seyval Blanc: This would have been my second choice for wine as I really liked this one. It had a butterscotch smell and a smooth flavor; The winery labels this one as a “semi-sweet wine with hints of apple and pear.” 4% RS; $14 bottle, $6 glass
Dessert Wine, Red Tail: This is such a fabulous wine, and sampling it with a piece of dark chocolate made it even more enjoyable. A “port style wine made from the Rougeon and St. Vincent Grapes; bottled in 500 ml bottles [this is] a perfect wine in front of the fire” 9% RS and 19% ABV $18 bottle, $8 glass
Our final sample was the raspberry wine which really does taste like raspberry jam and has a high acidity.

There were so many great choices of wine, and Plum Run will soon be offering Chilean Chardonnay and Chilean Malbec. My favorite wine choice for this visit was the Red Tail Dessert Wine, so I stopped by the grocery store for some dark chocolate to pair with this smooth delicious port.

Having opened in 2012, Plum Run Winery had recently added the rustic seating area to their tasting room. With elegantly exposed brick walls, highlighted with thick wooden counters, the new stylish space adds a level of country sophistication to the wine tasting experience. My favorite addition was the barnyard siding windows and added counter space.

Dave Crosby and his wife Diane, are owners of Plum Run Winery and have been making delicious wines for over 30 years. Dave is well-known in Grove City because he taught school before opening the winery. In addition to wines, Dave has also created Dave’s Gold Apples, a hard apple cider which is delightfully refreshing.

The winery hosts a number of events over the summer, such as music on Fridays and Saturdays. The second Tuesday, they host a Wine and Canvas event, while every third Saturday is Wine and Yoga. There is plenty of space to bring your event to the winery should you choose to host a Pampered Chef, Tupperware Party, etc. And to confirm such events, make sure you visit their Facebook Page, Grove City Brewing Company to confirm the dates and times. You can also sign up for their monthly newsletter which lists the entertainment for the month and soon their website page will be up and running.

There is plenty of seating to accommodate close to forty visitors indoors as well as forty outdoors on their patio, which is only open during the summer season.

Plum Run Winery is a vendor at the Grove City Wine and Arts Festival where fifteen to twenty wineries are represented. The festivities take place over the weekend of Father’s Day with an entry fee of $20 to include a souvenir glass as well as a set number of tickets to purchase wine. The Ohio Grape & Wine Conference, scheduled in winter is another venue that the winery attends.

There is some exciting news from Plum Run Winery with their announcement to open Grove City Brewery scheduled for late June. A former brew master from Buckeye Lake Brewery will be heading up the craft beer creations, so it is sure to be a success.

Have you sampled the wines at Plum Run Winery or have a favorite Ohio winery that you like to frequent? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the in the comments below. Cheers!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Plum Run Winery
3946 Broadway
Grove City, OH 43123
Telephone: 614 991 0338

Hours: The winery is open from 11 AM to 10 PM on Tuesday – Thursday, 11 AM to 12AM on Friday and Saturday and from 11 AM to 6 PM on Sunday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and for a list of entertainment.
Amenities: Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, patio seating, Grove City Brewing Company, wine, beer
Tips for Your Visit: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available. As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Grove City
4109 Parkway Centre Drive
Grove City, OH 43123
Telephone: 614 875 7000

Where to Eat:

Michael’s Hibachi
3985 Broadway
Grove City, OH 43123
Telephone: 614 317 7828

I had not visited a hibachi in such a long time that I was super excited to order some Japanese cuisine. I started out with the Spider Roll and then ordered the Steak and Shrimp hibachi with a glass of wine.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
North Market: A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
The Thurman Cafe: The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village. There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant: While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read:

Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus:

Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
Columbus Museum of Art: the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
Everal Barn and Homestead: landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
Frank Fetch Park: gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
Franklin Park Conservatory: beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
Gantz Park: barn, beautiful trees,
German Village: brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
Grove City: brick roads, small town, shopping area
Hayden Falls: wooden walking path, waterfall
Historical Village of Hilliard: a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
Inniswood Metro Gardens: gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
Ohio State University: campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
Park of Roses in Clintonville: various types of rose gardens
Riverfront Park: city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Schiller Park: gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
Scioto Mile: city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Scioto Park in Dublin: statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
Short North: restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
Topiary Park: depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.