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TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 Event Calendar 4 Trails, Trails, Trails 6 Art Attack 8 Kids Zone 10 Date Night 11 True West 12 Pet Friendly
2 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
13 Sara’s House 14 Shabby Chic 16 Basil 1791 17 Premium Libations 18 A Game Knight 20 Sweet Treats
Published by
Publisher & President: Eric Harmon Editor: Tim Walker Creative Director: Guy Kelly Designer: Wendy Dunning Advertising Manager: Laura Federle Production Manager: Keith Ohmer Sales Executives: Abbey Cummins, Brad Hoicowitz, Rick Seeney, Katelynn Webb Contributing Writers: Jordan Schotz, Tim Walker Contributing Photographers: Jacob Stone, Butler County Visitors Bureau
www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
Event Calendar for
Hamilton 2019 RIVERSEDGE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The RiversEdge Summer Concert Series presents free musical acts every year. The shows take place at 116 Dayton Street and feature only the best local and national touring performers. All concerts are free and open to the public. MAY 31 | Bishop Gunn, Scotty Bratcher JUN 6 | 90 Proof Twang, Kyle Daniel, The Grove JUNE 13 | Andy Frasco & The UN, Wild Adriatic JUN 20 | The Prince Experience (Prince tribute band), Moonbeau, Papa Gora JUN 27 | Dustbowl Revival, Angela Perley, Maria Carrelli JUL 4 | Very Special Guests TBA in May JUL 11 | ZoSo (Led Zeppelin tribute), That Arena Rock Show JUL 18 | Four Aces, Brass Owl AUG 1 | Strutter (KISS tribute band), Straight On (Heart tribute band) AUG 8 | The Dip, Naughty Professor, N2 Crew AUG 16 & 17 | Whimmydiddle—(paid admission) AUG 16 | Del McCoury Band, Special Guest TBA in May, Sarah Shook & The Disarmers, Arlo McKinley & The Lonesome Sound AUG 17 | Turnpike Troubadours, Shooter Jennings, The Steel Woods, Jaime Wyatt AUG 29 | Who’s Bad (Michael Jackson tribute), Freak Mythology, Moment 44 SEP 14 | Signs of Life: The American Pink Floyd (Pink Floyd tribute) SEP 6 & 7 | David Shaw’s Big River Get Down (paid admission; lineup TBD) www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
THE MAIN EVENTS OPERATION PUMPKIN OCTOBER 11–13 Tens of thousands of festival-goers flood Hamilton’s High Street for Operation Pumpkin every year. This spectacular fall festival features an award-winning giant pumpkin weigh-off, a showcase of beautifully carved giant pumpkins, live music and entertainment, the annual Lil’ Miss Punkin contest, and the city’s favorite Puppy Parade. More details: operation-pumpkin.org & facebook.com/ operationpumpkin
ALIVE AFTER 5 FIRST THURSDAY FROM 5-9PM APRIL-OCTOBER Hamilton’s Alive After 5 is a monthly shop hop in downtown Hamilton. Starting in April, this themed event features costume contests, scavenger hunts, and other family-friendly activities. Past themes have included Summer Blockbuster, Pirates, Vampires vs. Zombies, and Winter Wonderland. Come join us on the first Thursday of the month from 5-9PM for delicious food, unique shopping, and live music! More details: hamiltonaliveafter5. com & facebook.com/HamiltonAA5/
HAMILTON FLEA SECOND SATURDAY FROM 10AM-4PM MAY-SEPTEMBER The Hamilton Flea is a curated urban flea market in downtown Hamilton that draws thousands of shoppers every year. The Flea takes place in Marcum Park from 10AM-4PM on the second Saturday of the month from May through September. Come enjoy one-of-a-kind vendors, food trucks, and the unique atmosphere of one of Hamilton’s favorite events! More details: hamilton flea.org & facebook.com/thehamiltonflea CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 3
ALL ABOUT TOWN
Trails, Trails,
T
here’s a little-known rule of thumb in the great state of Ohio: all trails lead straight to Hamilton. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of river recreation or some scrumptious baked goods, there’s a trail calling your name, just waiting for you to get out and spend some time exploring the community. The Great Miami River Recreational Trail is a popular destination for anyone looking to get some exercise in the fresh air. The out-and-back trail runs along the Great Miami Riverway and, with fairly easy slopes, is good for all skill levels. Cyclers, runners, walkers, and pets are all welcome along the trail—just remember to keep Mr. Fluffers on a leash. The trail started as an expansion of the former River Corridor Bikeway in Dayton, and, once completed, will stretch over 99 miles from the City of Sidney in northern Miami County to south of Hamilton. The Great Miami River is one of only 22
Trails!
Follow the paths of least resistance to a truly wonderful experience, indoors or out.
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4 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
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national water trails in the United States, and the only one in Ohio. To date, 63 contiguous miles of recreational trail have been completed, with only two breaks. The largest gap in the trail is the stretch between Middletown and the eastern edge of Rentschler Forest MetroPark. 1.6 miles of trail was recently completed to connect Rentschler Forest to the City of Hamilton and to allow for the eventual connection to the trail’s end in the City of Fairfield. If you’d rather indulge your sweet tooth, Hamilton also has a world-famous trail of a very different sort. Wake up early one weekend, grab a donut-loving companion, and embark on the Butler County Donut Trail, a map of the most delicious momand-pop donut shops around. Once you’ve completed 12 donut shop stops and gotten your passport filled out, you’ll get a SWEET Donut Trail T-Shirt. Check out gettothebc. com/donut-trail to download a passport and get started on your journey! n
Fried, glazed, filled, and sprinkled. Try them all on the Butler County Donut Trail! With one of the largest numbers of donut shops per capita in the Midwest, donuts are a big deal on the Butler County Donut Trail.
Grab your Butler County Donut Trail Passport, complete the journey, and earn your SWEET Donut Trail T-shirt.
Which one will be your favorite? Dayton (30 min.)
Oxford
4
5
9A
63
Monroe
7
Liberty Township
4
Hamilton
129
75 129
12
27
Fairfield
9B
3
127
Central Pastry Shop
1518 Central Ave., Middletown, OH 45044
5
2
Holtman’s Donuts
6
3
Jupiter Coffee & Donuts
7
Kelly’s Bakery
8
4
9558 Civic Centre Blvd., West Chester, OH 45069 5353 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, OH 45014
1335 Main St., Hamilton, OH 45013
10 11
4
747
Cincinnati (20 min.) 1
6
Trenton
73
8
(90 min.)
1
Middletown
177
Columbus
4
122
127
732
Martin’s Donuts
4 W. State St., Trenton, OH 45067
Milton’s Donuts
3533 Roosevelt Blvd., Middletown, OH 45044
Mimi’s Donuts & Bakery 2267 Millville Ave., Hamilton, OH 45013
Oxford Doughnut Shoppe (Optional) 120 S. Locust St., Oxford, OH 45056
2
West Chester
Ross Bakery 9B
1051 Eaton Ave., Hamilton, OH 45013 or 4421 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
10
Stan the Donut Man
11
The Donut House
12
The Donut Spot
9A
7967 Cincinnati Dayton Rd., West Chester, OH 45069 8268 Princeton Glendale Rd., West Chester, OH 45069 5148 Pleasant Ave., Fairfield, OH 45014
Butler County Visitors Bureau
8756 Union Centre Blvd., West Chester, OH 45069
Download your Butler County Donut Trail Passport, and discover more fun things to do along the way at GetToTheBC.com/Donut-Trail
fittoncenter.org www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
pyramidhill.org
lemongrenade.com
mvbtdance.org
cityofsculpture.org
artspace.org/hamilton CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 5
PICK YOUR PATH
Art Attack I
f you’re a fan of the arts, you can certainly find your happy place right here in Hamilton. The city boasts a vibrant and growing arts community, with artist live-work lofts, small businesses dedicated to the arts, a variety of art programs, and a robust collection of public art. There’s always something new, exciting, and beautiful to see here! Take Hamilton’s murals, for example. StreetSpark is a partnership between the Fitton Center for Creative Arts, the Hamilton Community Foundation, and the City of Hamilton founded to further the creative identity in the community. The program encourages the production of high quality art, and provides opportunities for local artists to display their work and enhance the visual appeal of the city. Launched in 2016, eight murals have been created through the program, with another three planned in summer 2019. These murals help create awareness of the arts, energize the visual appeal of the city, and spark new development throughout Hamilton.
Murals, scupltures, and public art abound in the city—take advantage of the beauty that Hamilton has to offer. 6 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
Hamilton is known as the “City of Sculpture”, and it is through the nonprofit board of the same name that the community has been able to maintain and increase its impressive collection of public sculptures. Local favorites include “The American Cape”, a sculpture of Alexander Hamilton (after whom the city is named) that sits in the median on downtown High Street. Download the Otocast app for iPhone or Android to get a guided tour of the sculptures. If you prefer large-scale sculptures, check out Pyramid Hill just south of the city, a 300-acre park of rolling hills, ponds, and trails. For those looking to catch a show, browse a gallery, or learn a new creative skill, the Fitton Center for Creative Arts is the place to go. This non-profit organization has been part of the Hamilton community for over 25 years. The Fitton Cinema, launched in 2018, focuses on event screenings, family films, documentaries, classic and cult movies, and locally produced films, while the Fitton Family Theater hosts a variety of musical programs, plays, and song and dance routines. You can check out a gallery at the Fitton as well or, if you’d prefer to see some local art, head over to Artspace Lofts & Gallery. www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
These live-work lofts include a first-floor gallery space where residents display their work and host events. Finally, what aspiring artist wouldn’t be interested in collecting some materials or practicing their craft? Renaissance Fine Art Supplies, one of the first-floor commercial spaces in the Artspace building, has a wide selection of high-quality sup-
plies for artists practicing in any medium. The Studio: Masterpieces and Memories is a paint-your-own-pottery shop on Main Street perfect to host a party or even to spend an afternoon alone with your creativity. Hamilton’s art scene is a must-see for anyone who truly loves art. Come for the day, bring the family, and find yourself inspired! n CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 7
ALL ABOUT TOWN
Kid
Zones
I
t can be difficult to find fun and exciting places for both parents and children to visit. Fun destinations, family-friendly places to eat, and new experiences for the family can all be found around Hamilton, where there are more than enough activities to keep both children and parents occupied and happy no matter the season. When the weather’s nice, Hamilton’s unique park system, featuring 47 parks and greenspaces and over 1,300 acres of natural and wooded areas, offers space to unplug, spread out, and relax. One of the newest and most exciting parks in Hamilton is RiversEdge at Marcum Park, a greenspace and amphitheater that was nationally recognized by the APA as one of five Great Public Spaces in 2018. Marcum Park has just one of Hamilton’s many splash pads and water features for children, while RiversEdge offers a variety of free concerts every summer and fall. If a picnic sounds fun, check out Crawford Woods, Joyce Park, Veterans Park, Millikin Woods, or Jim Grimm Park. Each of
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State Certified Teachers Play-based, developmentally appropriate activities Safe and nurturing environment Supported by Speech & Language Pathologists and Physical Therapists
513-785-7070 hamiltonohiobusiness.com 8 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
hamiltoncityschools.com 513-887-5000
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these parks have plenty of parking and are equipped with picnic tables, shelters, grills, restrooms, and playground equipment. With more than 50 pieces of public art on display, many of which are downtown, Hamilton is known as the “City of Sculpture” for a reason. Download the Otocast app to get a guided tour of sculptures around Hamilton, and start with a local favorite such as “The American Cape”, a sculpture of the man after which the City of Hamilton is named. Nearby Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum has more than 60 monumental outdoor sculptures displayed in a 300-acre park of rolling hills, ponds, and trails. Open year-round and attracting more than 30,000 visitors annually, Pyramid Hill is the single largest cultural tourist attraction in Butler County. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, make sure to check out the always-popular Holiday Lights on the Hill drive-through light display, which attracts visitors from all over. If your child is a bookworm, the Ham-
With more than 1,300 acres parkland, you’re sure to find the perfect place to picnic.
ilton Lane Library can definitely handle all your literary needs. Built in 1866 by industrialist Clark Lane, the historic octagonal building that now houses the Hamilton Lane Library was a gift to the City of Hamilton. The impressive building houses a large modern library collection as well as the Cummins Local History Room, and Butler County residents are able to participate in a variety of free programs such as Library Scavenger Hunts, Teen Movie Nights, and Story Time for younger book lovers. Last but not least, the Fitton Center for Creative Arts has a number of free galleries
open to the public. For anyone interested in learning a new skill, from pottery making to photography to creative writing, the Fitton Center has classes and workshops for children and adults. A non-profit arts organization that has been part of the community for over 25 years, the Fitton Center also hosts musical programs, plays, and other special events including Fitton Family Fridays. Whatever your taste, Hamilton has something fun and unique to entertain children and families of all ages! n
Advertiser Profile
Hamilton’s Art Scene Known as the City of Sculpture, Hamilton is home to lots of art, both visual and performing. The arts have an economic impact nationally and regionally. Some of the arts organizations and businesses in Hamilton include Artspace Hamilton Lofts, which offers affordable live/work space for artists and their families and house the resident-led Strauss Gallery and Event Space; Miami Valley Ballet Theatre, who believes in dance for everyone and specializes in youth classes and performance for dancers of all abilities; the Fitton Center for Creative Arts, whose mission is building community excellence through the arts and culture; Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, whose mission is bringing people to art in nature; City of Sculpture, which promotes the recognition of Hamilton as a cultural community through obtaining sculptures to be placed in public spaces for the enjoyment of citizens and visitors; and LemonGrenade Creative, who believe amazing graphic design has the power to tell amazing stories. If a picture is worth a thousand words, their design talks volumes. What story can they tell for you? We ART Hamilton!
ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE: Fitton Center for Creative Arts 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton, OH 45011 513-863-8873, fittoncenter.org
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH 45013 513-868-1234, pyramidhill.org
City of Sculpture 1 High St., Hamilton, OH 45011 513895-3934, cityofsculpture.org
Miami Valley Ballet Theatre 175 Market St., Hamilton, OH 45011 513-737-1780, mvbtdance.org
www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
LemonGrenade Creative 10 Journal Square #430, Hamilton, OH 45011 513-737-6800, lemongrenade.com
Artspace Hamilton Lofts 222 High St., Hamilton, OH 45011 513-785-7000, hamilton-city.org/360/Artspace-Hamilton
CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 9
PICK YOUR PATH
Date Night
D
inner. Drinks. A night out filled with fun and romance. Whether you’re going on your first date or you’ve been together for years, downtown Hamilton has the sights and sounds to make your own personal version of date night a truly memorable evening. What’s a date without flowers? Two Little Buds is the perfect local florist to visit before your date to sweep them off their feet. Make your own bouquet or let florists and co-owners Mindy and Alice help you pick out just the right flowers. Two Little Buds also offers a boutique floral design studio, specializing in wedding florals and event design…something to keep in mind in case the date goes especially well. For a beautiful and relaxing start to the night, head over to RiversEdge at Marcum Park. This amphitheater and greenspace, which was recognized by the APA as one of America’s Great Public Spaces in 2018, is right in the heart of downtown Hamilton. RiversEdge often has free concerts, but even if it’s empty, you’ll love the view of the Great Miami River, especially at sunset. Marcum Park has a wide green space perfect for a picnic or for just taking a stroll when the weather’s nice. After a good time at Marcum Park, head over to Main Street to make something to 10 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
The perfect evening, filled with a little fun and romance, is never hard to find in Hamilton
help you remember your evening together. The Studio: Masterpieces and Memories, a paint-your-own-pottery shop located at 118 Main Street, offers a huge variety of pieces to paint. Whether you’re artistic or not, your masterpiece will be a unique reminder of the night. If you’re crazy about fragrances, head across the street to Petals and Wicks. Here, you can mix your own scents to put in a candle or in a variety of body products. The two shops have also coordinated to offer a special “make & take” deal, where customers can create pottery and then take it across the street to make a candle.
No date would be complete without dinner, of course. If you’re in the mood for Asian-style cuisine, check out Basil 1791, which serves sushi, pad thai, and a variety of Asian fusion burgers, or Roll On In, a sushi burrito and rice bowl restaurant. Those looking for seasonal variety might enjoy a meal from Plaza One Grille, located in the Courtyard by Marriott Hamilton, or The Coach House on Hamilton’s west side. For something faster and more casual, check out All8Up for a pizza or calzone, Neal’s Famous BBQ for a pulled-pork sandwich, Alexander’s Deli for a sandwich, or True West Coffee for a cup of joe. n www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
True West
T
rue West Coffee has certainly stepped up the coffee game in Hamilton, and you’ll find either one of their two locations busy no matter what time day or night you stop in. One step inside the business and your senses are enveloped with the smell of fresh roasted coffee beans. Pick up a mocha latte, cappuccino, or a shot of espresso to get you through the afternoon slump. These drinks pair well with their selection of muffins, scones, and other baked goods. If coffee’s not your thing, grab a cup of tea, one of their flavored steamers, or a Milkshake of Glory. If you’d like some lunch, True West has you covered there, too. Get a cup of soup or try one of their signature gourmet sandwiches, like the Loch Ness Monster, www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
the Bada Bing, or the George Bailey. The only problem you’ll have here is deciding which one to order first. Both coffee shops are furnished with reclaimed materials, and both host music nights and participate in events such as Hamilton Alive After 5. Even on a regular day, you can check out displays of local artwork while you listen to a wonderful curated selection of your favorite coffee shop tunes. More than just a place to eat or drink, True West’s is truly an experience to visit. True West operates two locations in the city of Hamilton: 313 Main Street and 221 High Street. The High Street location is closed on Sundays, but stop in any time at either coffee shop for an experience you won’t soon forget! n
Freshly brewed coffees, lattes, and cappuccino—True West’s brews are true eye-openers anytime. CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 11
PICK YOUR PATH
Pet Friendly in Hamilton
E
veryone loves their pets, and people in the City of Hamilton are no exception. In addition to the miles of trails and acres of parks you can enjoy with your furry friends, there are a number of pet-friendly businesses and organizations in the city that you might enjoy visiting. Pet Wants is an all-natural pet food business created in 2010 after Rachel Steinman noticed some serious health issues with her pets. After several thousand dollars and many unsuccessful trips to the vet, she discovered that the problem was the low nutritional value of the food she was feeding her pets. Steinman decided to take matters into her own hands. She now owns and operates Pet Wants with co-owner Chris Miller. Pet Wants manufactures cat and dog food using only high-quality salmon, chicken, lamb, brown rice, and other natural ingredients, ensuring that the product is as nutritious and healthy as possible. There are never any sugars, fillers, or animal by-products added. The food is competitively priced to other healthy alternatives, and given that corn, wheat, soy, and dyes are never used it is a perfect fit for pets with allergies. Pet Wants operates a storefront at 139 Main Street and also offers free delivery to most locations 12 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
Hamilton is a pet friendly city with plenty of amenities to make you and your pet smile.
in Butler County. If you’re on the hunt for a new friend check out the Animal Friends Humane Society, located at 1820 Princeton Road. Animal Friends is open seven days a week, and helps thousands of cats and dogs every year find their forever home. Visit the shelter to find your fur baby or to find out how to volunteer your time or donate to a good cause. Something that might be of interest to sports fans: Animals Friends Humane Society usually sends several puppies to the Puppy Bowl every year! Looking for a park specifically for your pup? Look no further than the “Bark Park” at Veterans Park, located at 20 New
London Road. The bark park comes with a smaller ‘run’ for the smaller breeds of man’s best friend as well as a large sized ‘run’ for dogs of all sizes. It’s jam packed with dog themed amenities including a watering station, three fire hydrants, and sculptures to enjoy. For the humans, the park provides plenty of seating and ample parking. Of course, if your beloved animal friends aren’t feeling well, there are a number of board-certified veterinarians who practice in Hamilton. Keep West Side Animal Clinic, Brookside Animal Hospital, and Dixie Animal Clinic in mind the next time Mr. Fluffers is feeling under the weather. n www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
Searching for the perfect gift? Sara’s House is filled with hundreds of handmade and truly unique items.
Sara’s House
L
et’s say you’re a shopper, and you love unique, repurposed, and handmade goods—and honestly, who doesn’t? You like to support local small businesses, and you’re looking for that special gift, something that you just can’t find at the mall. Good news, shopper: Hamilton has the perfect spot for you! Sara’s House Home Decor and Gifts, located at 254 High Street is a gorgeous boutique selling one-of-a-kind furniture, women’s clothing and accessories, and gifts for the entire family. Inside you can find everything from handmade jewelry, soaps, and candles to signs, knick-knacks, and original artwork of all shapes and sizes. A relaxing and enchanting shopping environment, Sara’s House is all the more interesting when you discover that the building’s top two floors are the actual home of owner Sara Vallandingham and her husband Dave. www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
“We loved it so much, we decided to move in!” laughs Sara, when asked about her shop and residence. “We had an existing business in Bridgewater Falls, about three miles from here. It was also called Sara’s House, and we had been there for about two years, and we had been exploring options for relocating the business.” “Dave and I had seen this building several years before, and we just thought it was an incredible location, right on the corner. Months had gone by, and we found out that CORE had purchased the building.” CORE is Hamilton’s non-profit Consortium for Ongoing Reinvestment Efforts. “CORE was going through the process of renovating it,” Sara continues. “New roof, new exterior, and they wanted to put some kind of business in here, which of course was exactly what we had in mind. It all came together just perfectly.”
Since opening Sara’s House at their new Hamilton home in May 2014, the Vallandinghams have fallen in love with the area. “It seems like really early on we snuck up the backstairs to see what the rest of the building looked like,” Sara says. “And I think it was my husband who said ‘How cool would it be to live here?’ We just love it here; we can look right out the front windows and see how the city is growing and getting better every year.” Dave Vallandingham contributes to the shop’s merchandise by manufacturing one-of-a-kind lamps. He repurposes items such as vintage blenders, cameras, and surveyor tripods, and the couple sells those items in the store. Sara’s House is open from 10am–6pm Monday through Friday and from 10am–4pm on Saturday. No trip to Hamilton is complete without a trip to Sara’s House Home Decor and Gifts. n CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 13
PICK YOUR PATH
Shabby Chic and Up-Cycled Retail A
wise lady once said that day filled with shopping makes the world go ‘round, and if a little retail therapy is what you’re looking for, look no further than the City of Hamilton. Whether you’re looking for upcycled home furnishings and decorations, handmade goods, or a unique gift, there are dozens of trendy shops in town just waiting for you to come and explore. Shoppers can find a variety of stores with unique home goods on Main Street. Following their motto of “Helping You Fleurish in Little Everyday Ways”, Fleurish Home offers their customers unique items for every price range. With curated home decor, candles, jewelry, baby & child gifts,
clothes, and chalk paint available for your perusal, there’s something for everyone to find here! Secretly Shabby is a boutique offering a variety of home and personal items, but the painting and craft-making classes are perhaps this shop’s most exciting offering for those with an artistic bent. Lisa Weaver, an accomplished DIY expert and owner of Secretly Shabby, is beloved by her clients and can teach anyone how to create unique, handmade masterpieces of their very own. Secretly Shabby is a friendly, unique shopping stop and, once inside, you might just discover talents you didn’t even know you had. Unsung Salvage Design & Ink is part
furniture store, part t-shirt screen printing shop. The “design” part of the store specializes in creating one-of-a-kind pieces of decor and furniture using mostly reclaimed materials. The “ink” side specializes in graphic design and screen printing for shirts of all kinds. Order your group’s next batch of shirts from them, or pop in to see what designs they already have and watch them print your shirt on the spot. Rustic Home offers custom built and painted furniture in a wide variety of colors and finishes. They stock 75 different colors of furniture paint, with a variety of colors and types of finishes available. The store also carries Swan Creek Candles, Willow Tree hand sculpted figurines, Badass Beard Care items, as well as other home decor and gift items. Front Room on 7th is located in the historic Dayton Lane neighborhood. Since opening their doors in November 2014, Front Room on 7th has quickly established itself as a favorite shopping spot for Ham-
Find your new favorite restaurant at
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ARTS
14 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
•
BUSINESS
•
CULTURE
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ilton residents and out-of-town visitors alike. Very conscious of supporting and promoting local artisans, Front Room carries Skin Foodie’s organic skin care line, a large selection of essential oils, and bath and body products to please every shop-
per. The store also carries a selection of beautiful antiques, chalk synthesis paints, and a variety of home décor and other items. Make Front Room on 7th a definite on your list of places to visit while you’re shopping in the city. n
Find a repurposed decoration or unique item at one of Hamilton’s many home goods shops.
your community. our mission. Health Services | Active & Independent Living | In-Home & Community Based Support | Youth Programs
At Community First Solutions, we have seen firsthand the difference one person can make. But, what about when that one person unites with many? The collective impact can change an entire community. More than a century ago, our not-for-profit began when an innovative woman gifted her house to meet the needs of older adults, and a group of philanthropists came together to make their vision a reality. Today, the difference we make is magnified because as a group of not-for-profits, united under one organization, we pool resources and expertise to make a collective impact on healthcare, wellness, older adult housing, behavioral health, pharmaceutical services, and even early childhood education.
513-785-4750 | www.Community-First.org www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 15
ALL ABOUT TOWN
Basil 1791
Y
es, it’s Asian cuisine—but it’s also a whole lot more. After opening their doors in January 2018, Basil 1791 has quickly become one of Hamilton’s favorite dining destinations. This bistro features a menu of pan-Asian cuisine with an American twist. Tr y the egg rolls, crab rangoon, or wonton soup to start, and then get a generouslyproportioned pad thai, Vietnamese pho, or General Tso’s chicken dish. If you’d prefer something more familiar, check out the menu for juicy steak, salmon, or one of the many different types of Asianinspired burgers. Combine the overstuffed menu with a knowledgeable and friendly staff, a comfortable dining atmosphere, a fully stocked bar, and space upstairs available for private events, and it’s no surprise that Basil 1791 has become such a hit with both local and out of town foodies. “Business is good,” says Monica Hite, the house manager for the restaurant. “Very, very good. We offer good old American food. Burgers and salads, American entrees, steaks, salmon, pork options—but most of our menu is Asian, and people really seem to love it. We have stir fry, we have a sushi chef who is here all day long. We have quite a mixture. Something for all tastes, really.” The Basil restaurant chain is based in Canton, Ohio, with locations in downtown Canton and Wooster. The owner, Tony Ly, also owns Ramen Katsu in Green, Ohio, near Akron. The Hamilton restaurant was named Basil 1791 after the year the City of Hamilton was founded. “We have a banquet facility upstairs which holds about 150 people,” says Monica Hite. “We do a lot of reunions, weddings, and receptions. It’s really a great place, and we’re so glad to be here serving the people of Hamilton and keeping people happy.” n 16 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
Elegant yet comfortable, Basil 1791 offers a great menu and entertaining dining experience no matter what type of cuisine you crave. www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
Premium Libations
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rinks, friends, and good times go hand in hand! W hether you’re watching the game with the gang, taking your partner out after dinner or a movie, or just want to have a social hour with friends, Hamilton’s bar and nightlife scene definitely has something to please everyone. Located at 20 High Street, Municipal Brew Works is an award-winning craft brewery located right in the heart of downtown. MBW offers customers their choice of over 20 totally unique beers on tap daily. You can find a different food truck outside every day, but it’s those finely crafted beers, freshly brewed—and the fun atmosphere—that will quickly make the brewery your new favorite thirstquenching spot. North Second Tap and Bottle Shop, at 134 North 2nd Street, serves up premium beer and wine to fun-loving customers who come in for the drinks and stay for the musical performances. With a full calendar of popular local acts on their stage and Hamilton’s largest selection of craft beers on tap, North Second has steadily been growing in popularity since first opening their doors in 2017. For a unique night out, check out A Game Knight restaurant and gaming bar. In addition to wine and beer, this bar has a variety of nerd culture-inspired mixed drinks and a selection of bar food. Take a group of friends and browse the huge selection of board games and card games or, if you’re feeling adventurous, start up a new role-playing game at one of their specialized RPG tabletops. They also have a variety of events, such as trivia, chess club, and Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, that will satisfy your inner nerd. Several new bars and restaurants will be opening their doors in 2019. Three of them, Tano’s Bistro, The Casual Pint, and Bones Brothers Wings, are all opening in the first-floor commercial space of the new Marcum Apartments development. Tano’s www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
Hamilton is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends and loved ones. Visit Municipal Brew Works for a local brew or stop in at A Game Knight for themed mixed drinks and a massive selection of board games.
Bistro will offer premium drinks and food to its clientele in a new 100-seat dining space. The Loveland-based restaurant has won numerous awards, including in the Best Chef category in Cincy Magazine’s “Best of the East” and the Best Caterer category in Cincy Magazine’s “Best of the North”. The Casual Pint is a craft beer market that will offer 30+ beers on tap and hundreds more for carry-out, along with a variety of wines and a food menu. With franchises in several Ohio cities, each Casual Pint is independently owned and operated. Bones Brothers Wings, a popular
Cincinnati food truck, will offer up chicken wings with their original handcrafted sauce in their first brick and mortar location here in Hamilton. Want to walk around Hamilton while you enjoy your adult beverage? As long as you’re within the Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, you can! This district encompasses 190+ acres of downtown Hamilton on both sides of the river, and allows businesses that serve alcohol to sell you a “to go” cup. DORA beverages are allowed in public spaces and many local shops, so make sure to take advantage the next time you visit! n CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019 17
ALL ABOUT TOWN
A Game Knight W
ho doesn’t love family game night? Board games and card games are not only an affordable source of fun, they have become an indelible part of our popular culture. So what could be better than a night out with friends or loved ones, drinking a craft beer and playing a game? That thought was exactly what led Hamilton native Bryan Brunner to opening A Game Knight in late 2018. “We have over 300 games of all kinds,” said Brunner. “People just love it. They come in and can play Battleship or Hedbanz, Candyland, Uno, Cards Against Humanity… It’s really great to see so many groups of people coming in and having fun together.” A Game Knight, located at 345 North 3rd St. in Hamilton’s German Village, is a board game parlor and tavern. In addition to its hundreds of card and board games, the parlor hosts regular trivia leagues, Magic: The Gathering tournaments, chess clubs, and a weekly Dungeons & Dragons 18 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
campaign. The menu features a variety of craft beers, wine, and nerd cultureinspired cocktails as well as sandwiches, pizza, soup, and desserts. Before opening the parlor, Brunner spent more than 30 years working for a Fortune 500 company and even owned a comic book and game store for a time. Now, with his new business squarely on the path to success, Brunner can smile at all the patrons who come through the doors to enjoy the drinks and game options. “We have over 20 different craft beers on tap,” he says, “and a full bar with wine, 30 specialty cocktails, and 14 different martini options.” Hours of operation are 4PM to 1AM on Tuesday through Friday, and 1PM to 1AM on Saturday and Sunday. Minors must be accompanied by an adult, and the hours from 8PM to 1AM are reserved for those aged 18 and older. With something to satisfy board game fans of all ages, A Game Knight and Bryan Brunner are certainly playing to win in Hamilton. n
A Game Knight board game parlor and tavern opened in November 2018. www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
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Sweet Treats
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ot a sweet tooth? Day or night, there’s nothing better than sharing a sugary confection with friends or family. Whether it’s frozen desserts you’re craving, baked goods, or sweet and colorful confections, you can always find exactly what you’re looking for right here in Hamilton. No visit to the city is complete without a stop at the Almond Sisters Bakery, located at 224 High Street. Since opening in November 2015, the bakery has become the go-to destination for hungry shoppers and sweet lovers. Owned and operated by Hamilton natives Jenni and Scott Hubbard, the bakery sells goodies made from scratch. In addition to their signature Almond Twists, local favorites include the Geode, which has a brownie baked into a cookie, Death By Chocolate cookies, and a variety of Savory Pastries. The wonderfully enticing smell of the shop will stop you in your tracks, but it’s the mouth-watering taste of the baked goods that will make you a lifelong fan of the Almond Sisters. If gummy bears are more to your liking, then Henry’s Candy Company has you covered. The shop has over 20 different versions of gummy bears in stock, plus a wide array of milk chocolate, dark chocolate, toffees, buckeyes, fruit slices, Swedish fish, chewy candies, and good 20 CITY OF HAMILTON :: 2019
From a mix of candies at Henry’s, to sweet treats like the Almond Twist from The Almond Sisters, to ice cream floats from Village Parlor, satisfy your sweet tooth in Hamilton!
old-fashioned bubble gum. Owners Mia and Tony Farquis opened Henry’s in July 2017—naming it in honor of their late son —and the candy store quickly became a favorite for Hamilton residents of all ages. In addition to candy, you’ll find nut and trail mixes as well as a number of sugarfree candy options. Over on Main Street, the Village Parlor serves up sweet treats from Johnson’s Real Ice Cream, a family-owned company in Bexley, Ohio. A sister location of the same name to the Lebanon restaurant and ice cream shop, Hamilton’s Village Parlor is located at 304 Main Street. Have your ice cream served up in one of their fresh,
hand-rolled waffle cones, or get an oldfashioned ice cream soda in a variety of delicious flavors. Buzzed Bull Creamery harnesses the power of liquid nitrogen to bring its customers fresh, premium ice creams and milkshakes while focusing on offering a one-of-a-kind-experience. They are perhaps most well known for specializing in alcohol-infused treats, and they encourage customers to get creative with over 30 available flavors. Located inside Roll On In Sushi Burritos and Bowls at 102 Main Street, Buzzed Bull Creamery serves up frozen desserts that will keep you coming back over and over again. n www.downtownhamiltonohio.com
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