One of my favorite neighborhoods in my hometown of Dayton is the historical Oregon District. The area consists of twelve city blocks rich in history and abundant in character. Tall storied brick and stone homes sit shoulder to shoulder, streets are cobbled, and an air of charm runs deep throughout the neighborhood. The centralizing 5th Street serves as the district’s atrium, offering boutique goods, independent restaurants, and friendly bars.
A Quick History of the Oregon District
Development of The Oregon District, Dayton’s oldest surviving neighborhood, started in the early 1800s. By the end of the 19th century, The Oregon was thriving. Talented developers made their stamp here, bringing an architectural mix of mansions to reside among the more modest accommodations. Today, it gives that perfect eclectic mix the neighborhood is well-known for.
The area hit hard times after the Great Flood of 1913 swallowed the cobbled streets up to 10 feet high. By the 70s, discussions turned to bulldozing the area, but enough locals defended the historical plots. In 1972 the city named The Oregon a Historic District for preservation, placing it on the National Register of Historic Places by 1974. Since then, Dayton’s favorite legendary district has been on safe ground, and we are forever grateful for this beautifully eclectic spot.
My Favorite Things in the Oregon District
Architecture
The Oregon District is known for its cobblestone streets and charming architecture. I enjoy walking through the neighborhood and admiring the eclectic and historic characteristics of this area.
Coffee
Press Coffee for a coffee shop that does their own roasting
It’s a minimally designed shop bathed in natural wood and black & white. The air is thick with warm, rich beans- the aroma of an elite brew. Needless to say, these guys believe in the power of the roast. Several years into running the coffeeshop, Press owners founded Wood Burl Coffee in order to do a little roasting of their own. And a success it was, earning credibility with Food & Wine, naming Press Coffee Bar in the article “The Best Coffee in Every State 2018,” specifically calling out its attention to detail. Grab a cup; you’ll taste the difference.
Ghostlight Coffee for a seasonally-inspired coffee and baked good
It’s several blocks outside of The Oregon District, but I’m counting this one in. As an independent shop beloved by the Dayton community, Ghostlight has been voted Dayton’s favorite coffeehouse in the last four years by Dayton.com. And it’s not just the coffee served that makes this shop a favorite, but handmade baked goods as well, with some vegan and gluten-free options. In addition to scones, muffins, and Ghost Tarts (the shop’s vegan spin on a Pop-Tart), this place sells whole pies at Thanksgiving. And these are pies you want making an appearance at the holiday table- Pumpkin & Maple, Lumberjack, and Kentucky Bourban Pecan are among the local favorites.
Shopping
Heart Mercantile for a one-of-a-kind gift
This shop, rich in character, features a lot of Dayton/Ohio-themed merchandise, but not exclusively. You’ll stumble across tongue-in-cheek handmade goods, like “Soap for Hipsters,” sarcastic mugs, and cheeky t-shirts for the whole family. When I want to send some Dayton love to my out-of-towners, this is my go-to supplier. You’ll likely find something for everyone on your Christmas list, especially for those on the sassy side.
Brim for a beautiful cap
This store is a gem. You’ll find more gift ideas here for sure, except you’ll want them all to yourself. This shop has the most beautiful, unique, and dapper hats you’ve ever laid eyes on. Vintage-inspired berets, bow-adorned cloches, driver caps in tweed… Say you’re not a hat person. Say it, then step inside BRIM and realized you are, in fact, a hat person.
Luna Gifts and Botanicals for a potted plant to gift or home
It’s refreshing, colorful, and full of earthy-vibed goods. We all need more green in our living space, especially heading into the colder months, and Luna is here to help. You’ll find an array of potted cactus, ferns, and crawling vines among fruity-colored glass vases, clay pots, and geometric jewelry. Get your Christmas list out again because you’re at a one-stop-shop for the ladies in your life.
The Arts
The Neon for an indie movie indulgence on the big screen
This small theater offers two screens featuring hand-selected films for the Dayton community. Here they take pride in customer service and promoting art expressed through film. The Neon features documentaries, independent and foreign films, among some mainstream choices. It’s a space that provides local filmmakers and businesses a platform they might not otherwise have. Plus, it’s just a really cool experience. Where most movie theaters are overgrown, The Neon remains quaint and in possession of discerning taste. Grab a coffee or a bubbly for the show, along with a salty treat, and settle into an artsy experience indeed.
Dining
Roost for Italian
The executive chef/owner, Dana Downs, likes to take local ingredients and create modern Italian dishes. And she does an excellent job of this. Scallops Alla Plancha, Mussels Di Finocchio, and Parm Frittes are among the starting choices. For the main course, you’ve got “Land, Sea & Pastas” options, each one looking divine. Whether you end up surfing or turfing, end the evening with a truly Italian classic, Spumoni Bomba- “strawberry/chocolate/pistachio gelato, wrapped in chocolate ganache.”
Wheat Penny for a slice
They serve a rustic elevated pizza pie, full of flavor, herbs, and a crispy crust in a trendy setting that buzzes with activity and clinking glasses. My personal favorite pie is the Miss Ohio with “Corn Crema, Roasted Corn, Fresh Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, Basil.” But the Duck Yeah!! Pizza is a popular choice…”A white pizza with Provolone and Mozzarella, house-made smoked Maple Leaf Farms duck bacon and juicy local tomatoes, finished with caper dijonnaise, dressed arugula and Parmesan/Romano cheese.” Whatever you do, start with the meatballs “on cheesy polenta with red wine sauce.”
Jay’s for seafood
It’s a warm and friendly atmosphere, wood and brick interiors lit with antique pendants, and at the atrium sits a historic mahogany bar. The environment is a bubbly one with chatty locals. Start with the crab cakes and work your way to the Twin Lobster Tails, a Spiced Bourbon Salmon, or my personal favorite, the Greek Style Swordfish “with a sauce of butter, cream, capers, tomatoes, fresh lemon, herbs and Feta cheese crumbles.” Be sure to save room for a dessert tasting. The Four Yums is the perfect plate to be shared, with slivers of Key Lime Pie, Cheesecake, Bourbon Pecan Pie, and Flourless Chocolate Cake to pass around the table.
Drinks
Lily’s for an island-inspired cocktail
Lily’s has reimagined itself in 2020 for pandemic survival, providing a getaway to patrons needing to sit back and relax for the evening. They may not be able to bring the tropical weather, but with drinks and plates that would serve just as well in the Hawaiian Islands, Lily’s delivers those warm vibes. Enjoy a juicy Mahalo Margherita or a seasonally spiced Sweater Weather over the Caribbean Pulled Pork Nachos.
Dublin Pub for Irish cheer
The melodic pipes will draw you to the crossing of 5th Street and Wayne, where a vibrant scene awaits. The music resounds as locals share a sudsy Irish pint while toasting to the Oregon neighborhood. There’s plenty of outdoor space for communing and a full menu with Celtic flavors to nosh. A great deal of talent has made its way up to the wooden stage inside, including Sheryl Crow, Blue Oyster Cult, and various local Irish favorites.
Warped Wing for a local brew
This independent, craft brewery is known for the Trotwood lager, but there’s much more hoppy delight to explore. Here you’ll find what’s on tap changes quite frequently. What remains constant is the ingenuity and passion these guys have for unique flavor and quality. With each frothy option comes an entertaining description. In Autumn’s time, you might feel like a seasonal choice- the 10 Ton S’mores for hints of chocolatey-vanilla. If you’re not into hops, they also provide ciders from Mad Moon Craft Cidery in Columbus. A Hunky Dory Apple Pie cider sounds nice on a crisp fall afternoon. When summertime comes around, look out for the pale ale Liquid Picnic or a tart Magic Melon.
You’ll find a scrumptious bite as well. Their grilled sandwiches make a tasty pairing with their brews. I suggest the Corned Beef Reuben, but they also make a hearty chili with their 10 Ton Oatmeal Stout that’ll warm you up on a cool day.
This is by no means an extensive list, but rather a taste. There’s plenty more to explore in The Oregon District and the surrounding downtown area of Dayton.
We’ve got an abundance of charm in Dayton, but what’s really at the core are the people that make the area what it is. Here a midwest spirit melds with city grit, a byproduct of hard times, and finds strength in community ties. It’s a place I’m proud to be tethered to.
Till next time,
A Note: Our current situation brings more challenges for travel, even local. The pandemic should be taken seriously, with caution and respect. Please wear a mask when out, and follow your state and local guidelines. We are all experiencing a standstill in some of our planned adventures. But we shouldn’t pause dreaming up escapes for the future. Just remember, this too shall pass. Let’s inspire and dream and plan.
