Local Foodie Favorites

Local Foodie Favorites

Dayton Infatuation
Logan Riley & Corey Hall

We’re a husband-and-wife team who are obsessed with finding the best places to eat in and around our hometown of Dayton, Ohio. 

We started Dayton Infatuation to highlight the incredible restaurants, cafes, bars, and hidden gems that make this city and the surrounding areas so special. Whether it’s a brand-new opening or a longtime local favorite, we’re all about sharing the spots that deserve to be on your radar. 

Our goal is simple: to help you discover your next favorite meal. Follow along on Instagram and TikTok @daytoninfatuation and join us on our foodie journey through the Gem City and beyond!


Jeeps, Tacos, & Positivity
Eric Roetter “Mr. Taco”

Hi! I’m Eric Roetter—Troy, Ohio is where my roots are, but tacos take me on adventures all over the country. I’m passionate about Tacos • Jeep Life • and Spreading Positivity. 

Starting in June 2025, I’ll be hitting the road in my Jeep for an Ohio Taco Adventure—traveling all 88 counties in search of the best tacos in the Buckeye State.

I’m also a huge supporter of local taco joints and love sharing recommendations for must-try spots right here in the Miami Valley. You can follow my journey on social media @jeeps_tacos_positivity or find me on Facebook as Eric Roetter. Be on the lookout for my taco-loving Jeep 

Have a question, a taco tip, or just want to connect? Reach out at mrtacoroetter@gmail.com.

Have a Tacotastic Day!!



Breakfast & Brunch

redBerry 
914 North Market St., Troy
937-552-9125
Open 6:30am-2pm Tue. - Sun.  

Highly famous for their “Cast Iron Cinnamon Roll,” redBerry serves up breakfast and lunch classics with some added flair. Impress the family with a pancake board or try something lighter such as their redBerry salad garnished with almonds, strawberries, feta, and a strawberry vinaigrette. 

Sam & Ethel’s
120 East Main St., Tipp City
937-667-0113
Open 7am-3pm Mon., Thu., Fri., Sat. & 8am-2pm Sun.

A classic diner through and through, serving up true American classics for breakfast and lunch. You can’t go wrong with biscuits and gravy or their classic S&E burger.

First Watch
2614-A Colonel Glenn Hwy., Fairborn
937-431-9150
Open 7am-2:30pm Daily

Whether you are looking for something healthy or looking to splurge on a carrot cake and pecan pancake, First Watch has something for you and all your friends. Try their “Million Dollar” bacon, kale tonic, or something special off their seasonal menu.



Taco Spotlight with Mr. Taco

 Hometown Favorite ((INSERT PROVIDED PICS))

La Catrina
845 W Market St, Troy
(937) 703-9041
Sun & Mon 11am-9pm/ Tue - Thurs. 11am-9:30pm/ Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

At La Catrina, you’re not just grabbing a taco—you’re joining a familia. Their street tacos, hearty tortas, and creative margaritas are fresh, flavorful, and all about community. The friendly service, farm-sourced ingredients, and lively vibe make it Troy’s go-to taco and tequila destination.

My favorite taco is the BBQ Chicken Taco—and even just typing this, my mouth is watering. The flavor profile hits all the right notes: sweet, smoky, savory, and just the right amount of kick. It’s a must-try for any true taco lover.


El Taco Mexican Restaurant 
301 E Troy Pike, Covington
(937) 753-1062
Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm/ Fri & Sat 11am-10pm/ Sun 11am-8:30pm

El Taco is Covington’s go‑to for fresh, flavorful, down‑home Mexican cooking. Whether you're craving carnitas tacos, sizzling alambres, or spicy Camarones a la Diabla, this family-run spot delivers authenticity and heart in every bite. With consistently great service and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a true local staple.

My favorite tacos are the Birria Tacos—packed with bold, full-bodied flavor and served with a consommé that’s absolutely delicious. Rich, savory, and satisfying, they’re the kind of tacos you’ll crave again and again.


Victor’s Taco Shop
549 North Vandemark Rd, Sidney
6418 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights
Monday - Sunday 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Victor’s Taco Shop serves up fresh, street‑style tacos and hearty Tex‑Mex combos with hometown warmth. From carne asada to birria, every taco is made to order with crisp shells and bold flavors. With friendly service, drive‑thru convenience, and a family‑run vibe, its spots in Sidney and Huber Heights are local go‑tos for no‑frills, flavor‑first meals.

All of the street tacos are on my list of favorites. I’m a sucker for a traditional taco—simple, classic, and full of flavor. Corn tortillas piled with your choice of protein, fresh cilantro, and chopped onions… it’s taco perfection.


Fridas Mexican Kitchen & Bar
965 W Main St, Tipp City
(937) 506-8093
Mon-Thur 11am-9:30pm/ Fri&Sat 11am-10:30pm/ Sun 11am-9pm

Frida’s brings authentic Mexican flavor to Tipp City with passion, flair, and true hospitality. From fresh-made guac and soft tacos to molcajetes and inventive fusion dishes, every bite feels like it was made just for you. Great drinks, vibrant decor, and a welcoming cantina vibe make it a top pick for family dinners, date nights, or fun nights out.

My favorite taco is the Tacos Al Carbon. The grilled ribeye is tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection—every bite is absolutely delicious.





Date Night


The Bridge Restaurant
127 W. Poplar St., Sidney
937-492-2542
Open 11am-9pm Mon. - Thu./11am-9:30pm Fri./4pm-9:30pm Sat.

A gorgeous and inviting atmosphere perfect for an enjoyable evening for two. Feast on a delicate surf and turf style cuisine with a fine bottle of wine or bourbon. Daily specials and happy hour from 4-6pm M-F. Reservations Recommended. 

The Caroline
5 S. Market St., Troy
937-552-7676
Open 4pm-9pm Tue. - Sat.

Laid back, semi casual dining, perfect for an unwinding dinner for two or a double date. Serving classic American fare within a specialty dining experience. Locally acclaimed for their perfectly cooked to order steak dinner; no A-1 sauce needed. To make the night most memorable, try one of their decadent desserts such as the dutch apple pie ice cream. 

Coldwater Cafe
19 E. Main St., Tipp City
937-667-0007
Open 11am-8pm Tue. - Thu./ 11am-9pm Fri. & Sat.

A true special occasion experience with a call-ahead feature to customize your arrangements according to event: birthday, anniversary, etc. Most famous for their quiche, their dinner options will not disappoint. For the entree, try the Faroe Island Salmon or the Duck Confit Grilled Cheese paired with a craft cocktail made from freshly squeezed juice.
Reservations recommended. Private dining available. 



Pizza!

(Dayton Infatuation pick)
Tipp City Pizza
14 E. Main St., Tipp City
9.37-506-7440
Open 11am-9pm Tue. - Thu. & Sun./ 11am-10pm Fri. & Sat.

Tipp City Pizza is so much more than your average pizza joint. This spacious, industrial-chic spot blends crave-worthy food with fun, making it a top-tier hangout for any occasion. Whether it's a laid-back date night, a big family get-together, or drinks with friends, Tipp City Pizza should be on your list to visit!
Their thin, slightly crispy crust pairs perfectly with a sweet, flavorful sauce—and don’t sleep on the cupped pepperoni, it’s a fan favorite. Their massive salads are a surprise highlight: fresh, filling, and beautifully made. Beyond the food, the atmosphere is a total win. With exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and a stylish bar featuring craft beers on tap, the space feels modern yet cozy.
Bonus points for the duckpin bowling lanes, which add a fun, casual edge for both kids and adults. Upstairs, there's a private party room for events, and when the weather’s nice, you can sip and snack on their small outdoor patio. Tipp City Pizza hits the mark on food, ambiance, and fun.

(Dayton Infatuation pick)

Old Scratch Pizza
19 E. Race St., Troy
937-552-7283
Open 11am-9pm Tue. - Thu. & Sun./11am-10pm Fri. & Sat

With four locations across the greater Dayton area, Old Scratch Pizza has earned its reputation as a go-to for wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pies and their Troy location might just be the crown jewel. The space is modern and inviting, making it the perfect weekend hangout for a casual lunch, dinner with friends, or date night over cocktails.
Fan favorites like the Shroom, The Dayton, and the spicy-sweet Angry Beekeeper are just the beginning. Don’t sleep on their monthly specials either! And yes, vegans, you’re covered too with plant-based Neapolitan pies that don’t sacrifice flavor.
The drinks menu is just as strong, featuring local craft beers and curated cocktails, and the salads—yes, the salads—are absolute standouts. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Old Scratch in Troy is a must-stop for pizza lovers with a taste for the exceptional.

3 Joes Pizzeria & Trattoria
414 W. Water St. Piqua
937-615-1100
Open 11am-10pm Sun. - Thu./ 11am-11pm Fri. & Sat

A cozy and inviting eatery serving classic Italian dishes and a wide variety of pizza styles. The locals’ high recommend the breadsticks, ravioli, and Margherita pizza.


Little York Tavern & Pizza
4120 Little York Rd., Dayton/Vandalia
937-890-6700
Open 11am-12am Mon. - Thu./11am-1:30am Fri. & Sat./ 12pm-12am Sun

American style pizza pub with a private dining area, bar dining area, and outdoor seating. Additionally, they serve up pub-style foods and provide music and bands regularly. 





Unique Eats with Dayton Infatuation

Mulberry & Main 
130 Main St, Brookville
(937) 770-1158
Tue & Wed 10am-4pm/ Thur. 8am-9pm/ Fri & Sat 8am-10pm
Mulberry and Main is the kind of place that makes you wonder how Brookville ever lived without it. This stunning new café and eatery hits the sweet spot between cozy and elevated. They offer breakfast, lunch, top-notch coffee, and a rotating lineup of local craft beers all under one roof.
Step inside and you're greeted with natural light, breezy garage doors, and a thoughtfully designed space filled with plenty of seating; from bar stools and café tables to cushy couches and even a kids' play area! The vibe is warm, welcoming, refreshingly versatile and perfect for a morning coffee run, remote work session, or casual brunch with friends.
Don’t skip the avocado toast, it’s a clear crowd favorite. And if you love to shop while you sip, you'll adore the two spacious antique rooms tucked inside. Add in excellent service, a well-curated tap wall, and that neighborly small-town feel, and it’s no wonder Mulberry and Main is already a must-visit. Whether you're rolling solo or wrangling kids, this spot delivers a 10/10 experience every time.

Home Sweet Home Café
320 W National Rd #6, Englewood
(937) 832-2765
Tue - Thur 10:30am-8pm/ Fri & Sat 10:30am - 9pm
Home Sweet Home Café is a tucked-away local favorite that offers homemade comfort food, friendly service, and a laid-back charm that keeps regulars coming back week after week. Whether you’re stopping in for a business lunch, grabbing takeout, or settling in for breakfast with the family, this place hits the spot.
From stacked sandwiches and generously filled wraps to crispy onion rings and perfectly seasoned fries, every dish is made with care and consistency. Some of our favorites include the Southwest Chicken Wrap, Chicken Bacon Ranch on a pretzel bun, and their hearty Philly cheesesteaks! Plus breakfast classics like the sausage gravy and breakfast burritos that actually fill you up.
Inside, the vibe is cozy and down-to-earth with just a handful of tables, local artwork on the walls, and a staff that makes you feel right at home. The prices are fair, the portions are big, and the flavors are unforgettable. A true neighborhood treasure!

Franco the Foodie
120 Jefferson St, New Carlisle
(937) 679-5404
Wed - Sat 3-7pm
Don’t let the size of Franco the Foodie fool you! This tiny spot in New Carlisle is dishing out some of the most authentic, soul-satisfying Italian food you’ll find anywhere in Ohio. With a rotating weekly menu and portions that’ll leave you full for days, Franco delivers bold flavors and homemade comfort.
Here are some favorites: the creamy salmon pasta, the pillowy lasagna, spicy rigatoni, and stuffed shells!. The cannolis? Legendary. And if you’re lucky enough to snag the cheesecake before they sell out, you're in for a real treat. The garlic butter baguettes are a must (trust us… get more than one), and the value is unbeatable, especially given the generous portions.
Mostly geared toward takeout but with a few cozy dine-in spots, this is a place where you’re greeted like family and fed like royalty. Franco and his team put love into every dish, and it shows. Whether you’re driving in from nearby or ordering on Messenger, Franco the Foodie is a hidden gem that deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Viva La Fiesta
836 W Main St, Troy
(937) 335-6800
Mon - Thur 11am-9:30 pm/ Fri 11am - 10pm/ Sat 11:30am-10pm/ Sun 11:30am-9pm 
If you're craving bold, authentic Mexican flavors with a fun and creative twist, Viva La Fiesta in Troy delivers in every way. Their colorful plates and sizzling entrees to the giant, flavor-packed margaritas that deserve their own spotlight.
Expect big portions, piping hot food, and an atmosphere that feels like a celebration! The staff here is genuinely warm and lightning-fast, and the owners go out of their way to make everyone feel at home. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, whatever you're in the mood for, the menu is stacked with options and easy substitutions. With prices that feel like a steal for the quality you’re getting, Viva La Fiesta is one of the best Mexican restaurants in the state.