Tag Archives: food

The Banana Split Festival: Wilmington, Ohio

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When was the last time you enjoyed a banana split?  For me, It was probably high school when I worked for a local ice cream shop, Fent’s Dairy.

So, when I noticed the Banana Split Festival in Wilmington, Ohio, I was excited to make the short drive to celebrate this  delicious dessert in the town where it was invented.  This year the event was scheduled to take place from June 8 – 9, 2018.

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I arrived downtown and there were several signs directing me towards Denver Williams Park.  I passed through a torrential thunderstorm but the skies were clearing up as I arrived at the park 10 minutes outside of town.

Complimentary golf carts were waiting in the parking lot to transport guests to the festival.  Vendors were still setting up and displaying their products as I entered.  Carnival food stalls were offering deep fried vegetables, pork tenderloins and Bourbon BBQ.  I couldn’t decide where to start.

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I made a stop  at the banana split buffet tent but they had not finished setting up.  The attendant asked that I come back in 15 minutes which allowed me more time to browse the remaining stalls and attractions.

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From pizza to hot dogs, Texas tenderloins and cotton candy, there were plenty of options.  I had my mind set on a corn dog, but decided on an order of deep fried vegetables trying to convince myself this was a much healthier choice.   I had to leave room for my “make it myself” banana split.

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The band “Rewind” was setting up and preparing to play for the evening.  They were testing out their microphones and checking the sound system when I strolled towards the open field where visitors were setting up their chairs.  From the town of Circleville, the band plays cover songs from the 60’s to the 90s and have a few of their own originals.

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There were plenty of carnival games where the children could win prizes and an enclosed area where the kids could pay a small fee to ride a pony.

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I arrived back at the banana split pavilion in time for the shelter house to open.  I was  handed a ticket to enter and gave the attendant my order for an original banana split.  A banana at the bottom of the plastic boat, three scoops of vanilla ice cream, strawberry, pineapple and chocolate syrup toppings, whipped cream, nuts and a cherry on top.  I replaced the nuts for sprinkles to brighten it up.

I took a seat at one of the picnic tables and read over the brochure and learned the local story about the banana split.  According to the town of Wilmington, this dessert was the creation of Ernest Hazard who owned a local restaurant in town.  It was winter in 1907 when he set out to create a way to bring in students from Wilmington College.  With unlimited food ingredients, he challenged his employees to come up with a recipe of their own.  But it would be Ernest himself that would end up being the winner of his own contest with his fabulous dessert would become popular the world over, known as the banana split.

The brochure also explained that in addition to the food, shows and crafts, visitors can also enjoy a car show and baseball tournament.  You may even want to sign up for the banana split eating contest held here each year.

Sponsored by the Wilmington Rotary Clubs, the Banana Split Festival is held annually in Wilmington, Ohio each June.  This was their 22nd year, full of activities and events.  To learn more about the festival, visit their website at www.bananasplitfestival.com.   Many thanks for reading about the Banana Split Festival and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Banana Split Festival
Denver Williams Park
1100 Rombach Road
Wilmington, OH  45177

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington
201 Holiday Dr.
Wilmington, OH  45177
Telephone:  937 382 4400

Where to Eat:

You can choose to eat the fair-style food at the Banana Split Festival or check out some of the local restaurants.

Mediterranean Restaurant
53 East Main Street
Wilmington, OH  45177
Telephone:  937 382 6300

We went searching for a pizza place and found The Mediterranean Restaurant, offering calzones, pastas, salads and more!

 

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A Taste of Home at Sam and Ethel’s, Tipp City, Ohio

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I remember learning about Sam and Ethel’s in Tipp City, Ohio when my grandparents would visit here for breakfast on Sunday mornings.   This amazing diner in the heart of town has been serving delicious, down home meals since 1944.  That’s over 70 years of yummy food.

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The menu was endless with amazing options, including buffalo, but I had my mind set on their famous Reuben Sandwich, a decadent combination of rye bread, thousand island dressing, corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.  My mouth was watering as I ordered this local favorite and one of Sam and Ethel’s best sellers. Along with their tenderloin and roundhouse club, each sandwich is served with their signature chips and garlic onion dip.

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The front room of the restaurant is reminiscent to the diners of the good ole days, where locals can sit at a counter and enjoy a hearty, home cooked meal or a cup of coffee with a slice of pie.  I found a seat at one of the booths where I could see the kitchen through the pass-through and was close enough to take in the delicious smell of meat cooking on the grill.

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When my sandwich arrived with a heaping of Sam and Ethel’s famous, homemade potato chips, I was in culinary heaven.  One of the most amazing sandwiches I had ever eaten, this Reuben was oozing with dressing and Swiss cheese.  The buttered bread was perfectly toasted with a generous portion of juicy corned beef piled high to make this the ultimate sandwich.

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While I was ordering my meal, the waitress mentioned Sam and Ethel’s signature dill dip and she asked if I wanted to try it.  The gentleman sitting at the bar turned from his meal to agree with her.  He further warned me that it was addictive and guaranteed I would not be able to stop eating it once I started.

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I was so happy I had asked for a to-go box, because secretly, I probably would have ordered another sandwich…it was that amazing,  I was disappointed that I didn’t save room for pie, but promised myself that on a return visit, I would definitely order one to share with my friends.

I learned a lot about Sam and Ethel’s from reading the menu.  This former single family home was built in 1869 and housed a variety of businesses before Bill and Flora Sensemen turned it into a restaurant in 1944.   Mom and Pop Pittinger bought the restaurant and ran it from 1947 to 1955 until it was purchased by Sam and Ethel Moore, giving the restaurant its current name. The restaurant stayed in the Moore family when Sam and Ethel’s son John took over and ran the business for forty years before selling the property to Keith Long in 2009.   The restaurant has won several awards including the 2012 Best Comfort Food and 2013 Best of Dayton Restaurants.  There is also a photo of former comedian and actor Jonathan Winters, a Dayton, Ohio native stopping in to enjoy a meal at this longtime eatery.

The Dayton newspaper had just written an article about Sam and Ethel’s famous pancakes, which are also a hit with the locals. I guess I will have to try them on my next visit.  Could I order the pancakes with a piece of pie on the side please?

Have you eaten at Sam and Ethel’s Restaurant in Tipp City?  What is your favorite menu item?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many Thanks and Bon Appetit!

What to See and What to Do:

Sam and Ethel’s Restaurant
120 East Main Street
Tipp City, Ohio  45371
Telephone:  937 667 0113

  • Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday from 6AM to 3PM and on Sunday from 8AM to 2PM
  • What to Eat:  I highly recommend the Reuben sandwich with the chips and homemade dill dip, the fried bologna sandwich and any one of their fabulous pies!  For breakfast, enjoy their plate-sized pancakes and corned beef hash (I like mine crispy).  Enjoy!

Where to Stay: 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Dayton North – Tipp City
1100 W. Main Street
Tipp City, OH  45371
Telephone:  937 667 5161

Where to Eat:

Sam and Ethel’s Restaurant
120 East Main Street
Tipp City, Ohio  45371
Telephone:  937 667 0113
Website:  www.samandethels.com

  • Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday from 6AM to 3PM and on Sunday from 8AM to 2PM
  • What to Eat:  I highly recommend the Reuben sandwich with the chips and homemade dill dip, the fried bologna sandwich and any one of their fabulous pies!  For breakfast, enjoy their plate-sized pancakes and corned beef hash (I like mine crispy).  Enjoy!

Photo Guide for Tipp City: 

  • Canal Lock located just outside of town
  • Charleston Falls, 3538 Ross Road
  • Coldwater Creek for food photos
  • Mums during the Tipp City Mum Festival 
  • Gem City Ice Cream Mural, 1462 Harmony Drive
  • Tipp Roller Mill is an historic grist mill where they provide entertainment on Thursdays from May to December.

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An Afternoon Wine Tasting in Tuscany

During a fall trip to the Mediterranean, I was looking forward to visiting the Tuscany region of Italy.  I had booked a seven-day cruise on the Pullmantur Sovereign and decided to experience the rolling hills of vineyards on an excursion sponsored by the ship.  The opportunity to sample the Italian wines outside of Florence was an unforgettable experience and from that point forward, I became fascinated by the wines of Italy from Chianti to Sangiovese.

The day was absolutely beautiful for a morning in Pisa then a short bus ride to the Tuscan region of Lucca.  Famous for its wine and spectacular countryside, vineyards of Semillon and Pinot Bianco grapes surrounded us as the bus arrived at Fattoria il Poggio.

Fattoria means “farm” in Italian and the il Poggio is what the Italians refer to as an agritourismo, otherwise known as a farm stay.  Farm stays are  perfect for guests who are interested in immersing themselves in the local culture based in an agricultural setting. In most cases, the restaurants at a fattoria will incorporate the “farm to table” concept using its own fresh produce and meats.

With voracious appetites, we were eager to sample the local wines as well as the olive oil produced by the farm.  This beautiful eco-tourismo exports seven red and white wines as well as a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegar.

We arrived to elegantly prepared tables draped in white linen tablecloths where empty wine glasses patiently waited to be filled.  Our host welcomed us to Fattoria il Poggio as servers filled our tables with copious bottles of wine and antipasti.  I could not wait to indulge in the estate wines, snack on locally prepared meats and cheeses and enjoy some of the finest ingredients organically grown at the farm.

The hospitality at Fattoria il Poggio was exceptional, the scenery mesmerizing and the food was more than outstanding.  Enjoying the generous portions set before us, we learned so much about the daily farm activities as well as how their products are made.

The wine pours were flowing and there were plenty of meats, cheeses, bread and olives.  Served family style, I can assure you that no one left hungry and not a drop of wine was left in the bottles.  What an amazing way to spend the afternoon.

We were offered six wines to sample as well as the wide range of items produced at the farm.  Fattoria Il Poggio has been making high quality wines since 1845 as well as growing fruits and medicinal herbs.  These items were available for purchase at the gift shop where other wine related souvenir items were sold as well.

A day in Tuscany is certainly not enough time to visit the region of remarkable wines which has made such an impact on the country’s culture.  With seven World Heritage Sites and endless charming villages, this area is one of the most visited in Italy.

Should guests decide to book a stay at Fattoria il Poggio, luxury  accommodations include such amenities as WiFi, satellite TV, floor heating, a private spa and a rooftop pool.  Additional services include local tours,  onsite events and cooking classes.  The il Poggio is the ideal location for wedding ceremonies, anniversaries and other monumental celebrations.

I absolutely love the idea of supporting local families and booking a stay at an agritourismo.  With first class service, outstanding amenities and fabulous produce, Fattoria il Poggio is the perfect farm stay for a future visit to Tuscany.

Are you a wine lover?  Have you visited a winery that you absolutely loved?  Or do you have the experience of staying at an agritourismo?   I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. And if you have visited Lucca and can recommend other wineries, I would love to hear about your favorites as well.  Many thanks for reading about my wine tasting in Lucca and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone:  +39 0583 22088

Where to Stay:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone:  +39 0583 22088

Where to Eat:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone:  39 0583 22088

Fattoria il Poggio’s Menu

During our wine tasting, we sampled various delicious Antipasti dishes.

What to Eat: 

  • Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a T-bone steak with the filet on one side and sirloin on the other.
  • Cacciucco is a fish soup dish from the port towns of Livorno and Viareggio.
  • Castagnaccio is a cake made from chestnut flour.
  • Crostini Toscani is bread topped with chopped liver sauce.
  • Lampredotto sandwich is made from the fourth stomach of a cow served in broth and served with a spicy sauce.
  • Lardo di Colonnata is cured pork meat.
  • Panzanella is a bread soup served cold made from bread, tomatoes, onion, basil, olive oil and vinegar.
  • Pappa al pomodoro is a simple soup made of tomatoes, garlic, and basil leaves served with stale bread.
  • Ribollita is a soup made with cabbage, beef, carrots and onion.

What to Read:

  • A Culinary Traveller in Tuscany,  by Beth Elon
  • A Thousand Days in Tuscany, by Marlena de Blasi
  • A Vineyard in Tuscany: A Wine Lover’s Dream, by Ferenc Mate
  • Every Day in Tuscany, Seasons of an Italian Life, by Frances Mayes
  • Not in a Tuscan Villa, by John and Nancy Petralla
  • The Agony and the Ecstacy, by Irving Stone
  • Under the Tuscan Sun, by Frances Mayes
  • War in Val D’Orica: An Italian War Diary, 1943 – 1944, by Iris Origo

Photo Guide for Tuscany:

Here are some amazing locations to photograph Tuscany, Italy:

  • Florence:
    • Canonici Palace
    • Florence Baptistry
    • Florence Cathedral
    • Florence Skyline:  view from Palazzo Vecchio
    • Il Duomo
    • Marcampo
    • Michelangelo’s David statue
    • Montalcino Street
    • Palazzo Strozzi
    • Perano Castle
    • Piazalle Michelangelo
    • Piaza del Duomo
    • Pienza
    • Ponte Vecchio
    • The Streets of Florence
    • Uffizi Gallery
    • Volpaia
  • Pisa
    • The Leaning Tower
    • Marina
  • Tuscany
    • Abbazia San Galgano
    • Abbey of Sant’Antimo
    • Agritourismos
    • Basilica di Santa Magherita
    • Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta
    • Carrara Marble Quarry
    • Castel Boccale
    • Chianti
    • Cortona
    • Crete Senesi
    • Firenze – the Arno River from the Ponte Santa Trinita
    • Monte Divalli
    • Montepulciano
    • Monticchiello – Strada dei Cipressi
    • Palazzo Pitti
    • Pitigliano
    • Podere Belvedere countryside in the Val D’Orcia
    • Poggio Covilli d’Asso
    • San Gimignano
    • San Giovanni
    • Seminario Maggiore
    • Siena – view from the Torre del Mangio
    • Terranuova Bracciolini
    • Tuscan Tunnel
    • Volterra
  • Wineries
    • Avignonisi
    • Barone Ricasoli
    • Capezanna
    • Castello Banfi
    • Castello di Ama
    • Castiglion del Bosco
    • Poggio al Casone
    • Poggio Antico

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An Amazing Urban Winery in Mt. Orab, Ohio: Bardwell Winery – NOW CLOSED

Update:  Bardwell Winery is now closed.

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Located in the lovely, rural town of Mt. Orab, Bardwell Winery is also a small-town eatery with a full menu of comfort food, a welcome addition of craft beers and of course, a wide selection of wines.

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Owned by Gayle and Randy Weddle, this Brown County gem is located next to a real estate business, also owned by the Weddles.   I had a lovely visit with Gayle sampling a few of Bardwell’s wines and learning about the history of their winery.

My wine tasting began with a sample of their Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich, deep and red in color, the wine had an agreeable texture with a smooth finish. This wine “features velvety flavors of black cherry and oak with medium tannins”.

The Pinot Noir smelled of chocolate and was a beautiful deep purple.  With a smooth silky texture,  it is described as a “full body red exhibiting flavors of ripe cherry and strawberry.”

The Merlot is one of my favorite varietals, and Bardwell’s does not disappoint.   I enjoyed the fruity smell of the wine and the eggplant color seemed to be a shade more dense than the Pinot Noir.  A smooth wine that would perfectly pair with a medium rare steak.

The Niagara is a local grape that is described as a “semi dry white that is full of grape flavor and aroma.”  I noticed that it had a sweet taste at the start yet a pleasant tart finish at the end.

The Apple Wine took me by surprise as I felt as though I was biting into a honey crisp apple.  With its unique flavor, I added this wine to my list of bottles I would be taking home with me.

The Strawberry White Merlot is “crisp & tangy with bursts of fresh ripe strawberries”.  I could definitely taste the berries as well as a subtle lemonade flavor and I love the pretty pink color of the wine. Another perfect wine for the summer months.

Taking my first drink of the Black Raspberry Merlot, I could smell the robust aroma of black raspberry.  The bold fruit-forward flavor of this wine is offset by the subtle flavor of the Merlot.

The Blueberry Pinot Noir is a winning combination with a perfect balance of both fruit and wine.

I have learned through the process of wine tastings that I have a wide range of wines that I enjoy to include dry, semi-dry and semi-sweet reds and whites.   The Moscato was one of my favorite wines at Bardwell.  It had a perfect sweetness so I purchased a bottle for my sister who loves this varietal of wine.

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While sipping on my last sample of wine, I had the opportunity to meet Randy, who gave me an overview of his new brews and explained that he would be introducing a few more flavors in the near future.   About a year ago they began brewing their signature craft beers which include the Golden Buggy Lager, Bronco Beer and Orabian Dark.

Bardwell Winery is a hidden gem in the southwest region of Ohio offering a wide selection of wines and craft beer.  You can find the winery on their Facebook Page which lists their activities and entertainment schedule.   They are open each night until 10 PM and have karaoke the 1st Saturday of each month.  Whether it’s beer or wine, Bardwell Winery is the perfect place for date night or a girl’s night out.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Bardwell Winery?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many Thanks and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Many thanks to Randy and Gayle Weddle for their hospitality during my visit to Bardwell Winery.   Please note that all comments and opinions written in this post are my own.

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

What to See and What to Do:

Bardwell Winery
716 North High Street
Mt. Orab, Ohio  75154
Telephone:  513 309 0781

You can also find Bardwell Winery on their Facebook page which lists their activities and entertainment schedule!  They are open each night until 10 PM and have karaoke the 1st Saturday of each month.

Where to Stay:

Bailey House Bed and Breakfast
112 N. Water Street
Georgetown, OH  45121
Telephone:  937 378 3087

Where to Eat:

Bardwell Winery
716 North High Street
Mt. Orab, Ohio  75154
Telephone:  513 309 0781

Bruschetta is one of my favorite small plates, so I couldn’t refuse trying this tasty dish prepared by Bardwell Winery!

Country Inn Restaurant
30 Sunset Blvd.
Georgetown, OH  45121
Telephone:  937 378 2100

I was looking for a down home country meal near the bed and breakfast and found a restaurant that serves Goetta!  Goetta is a meat-and-grain sausage inspired by the Germans who settled in Cincinnati and the surrounding area (in Pennsylvania they call it scrapple).  I ordered the Oldenburg’s Favorite Goetta Breakfast which included two large eggs (over medium), and Oldenburg’s favorite recipe homemade Goetta, home fries and made-from-scratch butter milk biscuits with real butter and strawberry preserves.  Yum!