Wheat Penny!

Okay, foodies, let me tell you about my absolute favorite spot in Dayton, Ohio: Wheat Penny! If you're planning a visit or just looking for an incredible dining experience, you have to check this place out. I recently had lunch there, and seriously, every single dish was a winner. We kicked things off with their famous Eggplant Fries. Now, I know what you might be thinking – eggplant fries? But trust me, these are not what you expect. They’re perfectly crispy thanks to a rice flour and cornstarch coating, giving them an amazing crunch. You can dunk them in either a refreshing yogurt sauce or a classic marinara. I tried both, and honestly, they're the best way you'll ever eat eggplant. They set the bar high right from the start! Next up were the Meatballs, and wow. These aren't just any meatballs; they're beef and incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth. They come served over a creamy cheese polenta, which is just divine, soaking up all the richness of the red wine sauce. And yes, they serve it with warm focaccia bread – you want that bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that you won’t want to share. Of course, you can't go to Wheat Penny without trying one of their pizzas. I went for The Angry Sal, and it did not disappoint. This pizza features Italian pork sausage, fresh mozzarella, and basil, all brought together with a punch of spicy tomato sauce. It’s a beautifully balanced pie – fiery but not overwhelmingly so, and seriously addictive. The crust is perfect, too, with just the right amount of chewiness and char. But the real showstopper, in my opinion, was The Philadelphia sandwich. This isn't just any sandwich; it actually won second place in an International Italian Sandwich Competition! And after tasting it, I totally understand why. It's packed with juicy braised pork shoulder, sharp provolone, and rapini, all served on their house-made ciabatta. The flavors are incredible, and the ciabatta is so fresh and perfectly made. It’s a truly gourmet sandwich experience that you absolutely have to try. Beyond the amazing food, the atmosphere at Wheat Penny is fantastic. They even have outdoor seating, which is a huge plus when the weather is nice. It’s clear why this is one of my favorite spots in Dayton. Whether you're a local or just passing through Ohio, make sure to add Wheat Penny to your list. You haven't truly experienced Dayton's food scene without a meal here!