Hip, Hop, Hurray (… for the Easter Buffet!)

Easter is this Sunday and it’s a great time to go to Brunch with the entire family!  Here is a list of the Easter Brunches that will be available in Dublin, Ohio on Sunday, April 8 (2012)! Please call ahead for reservations as restaurants will fill quickly.

• Salvi’s Italian Bistro – The Grand Buffet at Salvi’s starts at 10 a.m. and continues until 8 p.m. The day begins with Scrambled Eggs, bacon, sausage and all your breakfast favorites and transitions to Roast Lamb, Roast Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham and Baked fresh Fish. Side items include fresh fruit, cheese platters, green beans, chilled shrimp, bowtie pasta and don’t forget the Pasta Salvi! Adults $25.99, Children ages 5-11 $12.99 and children 4 and under are free. www.salvisbistro.com 5000 Upper Metro Place, Dublin. 614/874-0466.
• J. Liu’s – Known for their great combination of American and Asian favorites, J. Liu’s Easter Brunch will include Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham, Omelets made to order, French Toast and Shrimp–in addition to Crab Rangoon, Spring Rolls, Spicy Chicken, Fried Rice and a large assortment of other wonderful sides and specialty desserts. Their buffet begins at 10 a.m. and will end at 4 p.m. Adults $25.99, Seniors $22.99, Children ages 4 – 11 $12.99 and children 3 and under are free. www.jliurestaurant.com  50 West Bridge Street, Dublin. 614/718-1818.
• Matt the Miller’s will be serving an upscale Easter Brunch this Sunday from 11-4pm. Carving stations and enhanced Chef selections will be served in addition to their already fabulous Sunday Brunch. Adults $24.95, Children 5-10 $7.95, children 4 and under are free with paying adult. www.MtMTavern.com 6725 Avery-Muirfield Drive. 614/799-9100.
• Whole Foods of Dublin is serving an organic fresh All-You-Can-Eat Easter Brunch from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. in their store. Enjoy Herbed Leg of Lamb, Fresh Carved Ham, Made to Order Omelets, French toast and Pancakes, Pasta Salads, Fresh Fruit and Veggie Salads, Desserts made to order and much more. Adults $25, Children under 12 $12.50, Children under 5 are free. www.wholefoodsmarket.com 3670 W. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus. 614/760-5556.
• Crowne Plaza Dublin Hotel – The Dublin Metro Bar & Grill (at the Crowne Plaza Dublin)  is offering a dynamic Easter brunch from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. that includes a chef’s carving station, omelet and crepe stations, breakfast and dinner items, children’s buffet, ice sculptures and live piano music. Reservations required. $27.95 adults, $18.95 seniors, kids ages 6-11, $14.95. Children under 6 free.  600 Metro Pl. N, Dublin 614/764-2200 www.crowneplaza.com/dublinoh
• Columbus Marriott Northwest will be hosting an upscale buffet from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Roasted Leg of Lamb with Mint Jelly, Prime Rib of Beef, Roasted Turkey Breast will be a few of the hot items available along with traditional sides. Chilled Shrimp, smoked scallops, crab claws and poached salmon will also be featured, as well as breakfast items like made-to-order omelettes and waffles, bacon, sausage and fresh fruit. Fresh baked Danish, muffins and croissants will be available in addition to a bountiful array of pastries and chocolate. Adults $31.95, Seniors $24.95, Children 5-12 are $14.95 and children under 5 are free. www.columbusmarriottnorthwest.com   5605 Blazer Parkway, Dublin. 614/791-1000.
• Golf Club of Dublin will start their brunch at 12:30 p.m. with a fun Bunny Hunt for the children. Enjoy brunch favorites of Baked Ham, Prime Rib, made to order Omelettes as well as fresh fruit, salads, side dishes, pastries and desserts. Adults $21.95, Children under 12 are $12.95 and children under 4 are free. www.golfclubofdublin.com  5805 Eiterman Road, Dublin. 614/792-3825.
• The Bogey Inn will be hosting an Easter Brunch from 10 am to 3 pm. Enjoy Carved Prime Rib, Turkey and Ham, an omelette station, breakfast favorites and delicious sides and desserts. Adults are $18.99 and children are $8.99. www.bogeyinn.com  6013 Glick Road, Powell. 614/766-1900.
• Tucci’s Bistro invites you to enjoy either a brunch buffet (11 a.m.-3 p.m.)or a dinner buffet (4-8 p.m.). Both buffets will feature chef stations, a selection of fresh salads, shrimp, smoked salmon, grilled chicken, assorted side dishes and mini desserts. The full menu can be found online at www.tuccisbistro.com. 35 North High Street. 792-3466.

For other dining options in Dublin, Ohio, visit www.IrishisanAttitude.com or call the Dublin Ohio Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800/245-8387.

~Post by Katie

 

 

Talking Turkey: Thanksgiving Day Buffets in Dublin Ohio

What’s the BEST thing to make for Thanksgiving? Reservations! Not only do you get out of a long day standing in the kitchen cooking, but someone else cleans up.  That means you get to (1) sleep in, (2) watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and (3) take a nap. (Why fight the Tryptophan-induced, after-Thanksgiving food coma?) Here are a few great restaurant options for turkey day … and a few Black Friday incentives to get you out the door the day after turkey day.

Matt the Miller. Fab buffet (from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.) that includes a carving station with oven roasted turkey, Garlic roasted Ribeye, Honey glazed ham, Cranberry-apricot relish, Mashed potatoes, Spinach and sage stuffing, Corn soufflé with honey and fried onions, Green beans with roasted shallots, candied yams with walnut crumbs, Shrimp cocktail, Flatbreads, Salads, Fresh Rolls, Pasta Veggie and cheese display, Great desserts. Reservations required. $28.95 Adults, $10.95 Kids 5-10 years old. Kids 4 and under are free with a paying adult. Additional 4 and under: $4.95 each.799-9100. 6725 Avery-Muirfield Dr. www.mtmtavern.com

 Salvi’s Italian Bistro. This luscious buffet (from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.) includes: Roasted Turkey, Pan Gravy, Cornbread dressing, Cranberry sauce, Roasted Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham, Pasta Alfredo with vegetables, Mashed Yukon Gold potatoes with Sour Cream and Chives, Candied Sweet Potatoes, Mini Pasta Salvi, Italian Green Beans and Kernel Corn, Baked Acorn Squash,  Assorted Hot rolls, Delicious Dessert selections, Shrimp Cocktail,  Medley of Relishes, Fresh Fruit, Cheese logs and cheese cubes, Marinated Tomato and Cucumber Salad, Cottage Cheese and Mandarin Orange Sections, Green salad with bacon. Reservations required. $24.99 Adults. $12.50 Kids 5-11. Children under 4 are free. 614/874-0466. 5000 Upper Metro Place. www.salvisbistro.com

J. Liu’s Restaurant. Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving buffet as well as signature J. Liu favorites. Buffet will be served from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call ahead for reservations. $27.99 Adults. $25.99 Seniors. $14.99 Children ages 4-11. 614/718-1818. 50 West Bridge Street. www.jliurestaurant.com

Columbus Marriott Northwest. Savor your favorite holiday flavors with this traditional Thanksgiving buffet with Turkey, Ham, and Prime Rib, as well as delicious sides, salads and desserts. Buffet will be offered from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Seating is limited; please call ahead for reservations. $30.95 Adults. $24.95 Seniors. $12.95 Children ages 6-12. 614/791-1000. 5605 Blazer Parkway. www.columbusmarriottnorthwest.com

Embassy Suites Hotel/Kilpatrick’s. Just like Mom used to make. This traditional Thanksgiving buffet includes Oven Roasted Turkey, Mashed potatoes with gravy, Corn Bread stuffing, Green Bean Casserole, Mixed Green Salad, Assorted Pies and Cakes. Buffet will be served from 5 -8 pm. $17.95 Adults. $8.95 Children 12 and under. 614/790-9000. 5100 Upper Metro Place. www.columbusdublin.embassysuites.com

Black Friday Specials

Kogen’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi  is having a one-day sale on gift cards. Buy a gift card and Kogens will match 50% of the amount in a gift card back to you! Nov. 25 only. 614/798-8882. 9711 Sawmill Pkwy. www.kogens.com

Sunny Street Café Fuel up on breakfast before you hit the shopping! Open at 5 am and offering $3.99 breakfast specials ‘til 9 am. Also serving a BBQ Rib dinner Friday evening. Receive a $10 bonus gift card for every $50 gift card purchase. 614/389-3640. 7042 Hospital Drive. www.sunnystreetcafe.com

For more information about dining and shopping options in Dublin Ohio, visit www.IrishisanAttitude.com or call 800/245-8387.

 

10 Holiday Deals in Historic Dublin on Nov. 17

Here at the Dublin CVB we are fully aware that it’s mid-November, but with our Kids Go Free/Columbus Zoo Wildlights Package available online we can’t help but be excited for the holidays. So before you cut that Thanksgiving turkey, go out and explore the charming Historic District in Dublin this Thursday, Nov. 17th from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Historic Dublin is located at the intersection of Bridge St. & High St.

The District Open House features specials from 10 different shops that are sure to help you get in the spirit and get some of that necessary shopping done. So hop on one of the Trolley Rides (available 4-7 p.m.) or stroll through the Luminary Walk, compliments of the American Cancer Society, and increase your holiday joy before the snow even falls.

 

1. Ha’penny Bridge Imports of Ireland: Belleek & Galway Open House (1pm- 6pm)
Gifts personalize by Belleek Painter, Collette Green, from Belleek, Co. Fermanagh, Ireland. Enjoy light refreshments and Enter to Win 10 Gifts on your Ha’Penny Christmas Wish List. 17% discount on any one item priced at $50 or higher and purchase of a Belleek event piece.

2. The Sister’s Sweet Shoppe: Enjoy fruitcake tastings and try samples of the gourmet chocolates. There will be fun activities for you to view like their chocolate dipping and peanut butter harvest movie.

3. Z Bearla’s Gifts: Try some tasty treats like holiday cheese balls and champagne.

4. Blankets & Booties: Receive a 25% discount on your purchase of full-priced merchandise and enjoy refreshments and free Christmas gift wrapping.

5. Dean Insurance Group: Enjoy wine and food sampling along with a jewelry party.

6. Clover Boutique: Holiday treats and 20% off entire store and 30% off jewelry.

7. Our CupCakery: Holiday cake pop tasting and demonstrations. Enter to Win a free box of Holiday Cake Pops.

8. Boho 72 Boutique: 20% off handmade jewelry, scarves and handbags at this chic boutique.

9. What’s the Point: Delicious holiday cookies are available as you peruse a variety of needlepoint items.

10. Woodhouse Spa: Appetizers and seasonal beer tasting courtesy of Mezzo’s Italian Restaurant. The Diamond Cellar will be showcasing several of extraordinary pieces. You can also register to win tickets to the last big Ohio State football game. Purchase $100 gift card and you will receive an additional $20 gift card to pamper yourself or a friend.

For more information about the District Open House and future “Holly Days in Historic Dublin” please visit http://www.HistoricDublin.org

-Post by Allison

 

7 Days of Dublin Happiness

I believe happiness should be pursued daily. That happiness can come in the form of an act of kindness, accomplishment, or time with a good friend.

This week, November 8-14, is recognized by the International Society of Friendship and Good Will as Pursuit of Happiness Week.

So I tried to think of 7 simple things that make me happy:

1. Peanut Butter
2. Learning something cool
3. Really good food… and lots of it
4. Singing loudly to a live band
5. Exploring art exhibits
6. Shopping with no regrets
7. Sleeping like a baby

In honor of this week, I have decided to complete these simple little things that make me happy. So whether you are a resident of Dublin or a visitor, I challenge you to explore a week’s worth of Dublin treasures.

Peanut Butter: Maybe this list isn’t necessarily in order, but yes, I consider peanut butter life’s simple treat that makes rain clouds disappear. The best peanut butter in the world (seriously) is made right here in Dublin. KREMA Peanut Butter. This peanut butter has been featured on The Today Show, Prevention Magazine, Men’s Health Magazine and Cooking Light Magazine.

Why is it so awesome? Well besides from being owned by the two most adorable, blonde sisters, Melissa and Nanette, it has only one ingredient; peanuts. Who would have thought?

Grounds of Rememberance

Learning something cool: Did you know the City of Dublin commissioned a public artwork in recognition of veterans and their families? The Dublin Veterans Project is a lasting tribute to those men and women who have served our country in war and peace. It also received a National Honor for outstanding achievement and is featured in the September 2011 edition of Landscape Architecture.

The Grounds of Remembrance in Dublin Veterans Park will be hosting Dublin’s Veterans Day Ceremony from 11 a.m.-noon Friday, Nov. 11. Veterans are invited to enjoy a complimentary breakfast from 9-10:30 a.m. at La Chatelaine, 65 W. Bridge Street.

Really good food… and lots of it: The varieties of culinary creations keep growing in Dublin. I’m not sure if that directly correlates with my growing waistline… either way, when I do bring home bags of groceries, I usually just go out to eat anyway. Why? Because it’s more fun. Also because I’m good at finding deals.

Like at Max & Erma’s Restaurant. They have ongoing weekly specials; $5 munchies during their Happy Hour (Monday-Friday), Free Cookie Wednesdays and Kids Eat Free Tuesdays. Ok, I don’t have kids, but if I did you better believe I’d be taking little Audrey to get her chicken tenders.

Live music at Brazenhead Pub

Singing loudly to a live band: It’s a very realistic possibility I will have hearing problems in the future because I love experiencing live music. You may think we only have fiddlers and bagpipers here in Dublin.

I challenge you to check out our authentic Irish Pub this Saturday, Nov. 12 and listen to some rocking covers by The Jenkins & Scott Band. There’s live music here in Historic Dublin every weekend. Singing loudly is optional. Eating fish & chips is mandatory.

Exploring art exhibits: If my artistic talent could support my shoe fetish,  I’d be at home painting. Since some things have to be labeled “hobbies” I choose to view the masters by going to art museums. Did you know Dublin has its very own art gallery? The Dublin Arts Council selects incredible exhibits and will be featuring “Oh Rats!” a collection of ceramic sculptures by Juliellen Byrne.

The exhibit’s grand opening is Tuesday, Nov. 15 with a reception for the artist from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibition remains on view at Dublin Arts Council through Dec. 16.

Clover Boutique

Shopping with no regrets: When I go shopping, it is a hunt. I scour clothing racks and home goods like a lioness ready to make her kill. Here at the Bureau, we understand you probably look for deals too. That’s why we have amazing travel packages, like our new Kids Go Free Columbus Zoo Wildlights Getaway Package. You can also download our Discover Dublin Discounts where you can get deals from some of our favorite places in Dublin. *Cough… Clover Boutique… *cough *cough.

Sleeping like a baby: Sometimes the best part of being awake during your day is knowing you can soon go back to sleep. I take my slumber very seriously. So does the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dublin. They actually did a study about the sleep necessities so you can receive your best night’s sleep.

Lavender room spray, a curtain clip, and body hugging duvets are all a part of their Sleep Advantage system. Oh and if they miss your scheduled wake-up call your room is free. Be sure to check out all of our Dublin hotels.

Your happiness list may vary, but be sure to turn to the Green Team at the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau if you need help. We are the local experts here to make your experience a happy one.

-Post by Allison

 

I-Scream in Dublin

In honor of National Ice Cream month, we took our staff meeting to the local Jeni’s Ice Cream. To be honest, it was more about finding a cooler location to meet since our A/C was down–but it was a good excuse for us to savor some new flavors!

There is something about eating ice cream that makes you feel like a happy kid again. According to one study by scientists at the Institute of Psychiatry in London, one taste of the frozen sweet treat sends a brain into its happy zone. Nothing like a good brain freeze, huh? 

If you’re among those who savor the sweet stuff, you have Ronald Reagan to thank for naming July National Ice Cream month (and the third Sunday in July “National Ice Cream Day”) in 1984. You can go HERE to read the actual proclamation that states that “ice cream is a nutritious and wholesome food that is enjoyed by over ninety percent of the people in the United States.”

Is your mouth is watering for ice cream about now? Good. We rolled up our sleeves, dug into the trenches and did our due diligence to sniff (and taste) the best ice cream flavors in and around Dublin, Ohio. It was tough work, but someone had to do it. Here are a few notables:

• Graeters. Savor Graeter’s seasonal favs like peach, watermelon sorbet and coconut and you’ll understand why the French Pot process makes all the difference. Pay just $1.41/scoop on 7.17.11 when Graeter’s celebrates its 141st birthday. Plus, it’s the kick off of their SweetStakes where one lucky person will win a year’s worth of ice cream!

• Menchies. If frozen yogurt is more your thing, Menchie’s offers a do-it-yourself smorgasbord of flavors and combinations. Try the new Chocochella–a combo of two Italian favorites, creamy hazelnut and decadent chocolate. Yummissimo.

• MJs Candy Bar. Surprised to learn that the #1 candy store in Columbus serves ice cream? It all makes sense when you discover that it’s Hershey’s Premium Ice Cream that goes into MJs specialty milkshakes like Buckeye Blast, Shirley Temple and Shamrock Chip.

• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. We love our Jeni’s in Central Ohio … but she keeps surprising us with her out-of-the-box creations made using local ingredients. Recent favs: Backyard Mint, Peach Buttermilk, Coriander Raspberry and Askinosie Dark Milk Chocolate.

• TehKu Tea Company. Dublinites love this local oasis for its ambiance and selection of nearly 200 teas, including a signature green called “Matcha.” Now you can get your green tea health benefits in the form of ice cream with TehKu’s own Matcha Ice Cream, as well as the new Chai flavor. (Available 7.22.11)

~Post by Mary

 

Sláinte! (Cheers) From Historic Dublin Ohio

This post comes from guest writer Gretchen Friend, Coordinator for the Historic Dublin Business Association.

Sláinte (pronounced SLON-CHA) is the Gaelic or Celtic equivalent of  the friendly toast, “Cheers” or “To your health!”  Just saying it out loud makes you wish you were Irish, huh?  In fact, many of the residents of Dublin,Ohio have embraced this vibrant culture from across the Atlantic by partaking in many of the traditions which makes Dublin,Ireland so interesting.

Next Thursday, May 19 marks the first Sláinte Thursday of 2011–a fun evening of cheer  in the the City’s Historic District. These exciting third Thursday celebrations are held throughout the summer months in Dublin, Ohio.  Beginning at 4 p.m., restaurants are buzzing with live music while shops and businesses ready for a steady stream of visitors to the area. Specials, open houses, children’s activities and food sampling create a swirl of activities for all ages.

Created for locals and visitors alike, a Sláinte Thursday celebration is just right for those warm summer nights. Live musical melodies at several locations throughout Historic Dublin lead people from place to place as they visit the district. My favorite is part of the evening is walking along the brick sidewalks under the canopy of shade trees. It’s so quaint, yet hip!  No one is pushing me to a deadline (unless it’s getting the last taste of a special in one of the many great restaurants).

The May 19th  Sláinte Thursday will feature a golf theme–a nod to the world-class PGA Memorial Tournament that Dublin, Ohio will host May 30-June 5.  During Sláinte Thursday folks can try their putting skills on nine greens placed around the Historic District. Knocking all the balls in the holes will give you a chance to win tickets to the Memorial Tournament or many other great gift certificates and prizes from Historic Dublin businesses. Live music by Rockbridge Crossing will play from the Frog Park, next to the Visitors Center (9 S. High St.)

Catch the Trolley as it passes by each hole, if the walk is too much for you. From 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. the Trolley loop will follow South High Street up to the library and back. Or just meander up and down the sidewalks, enjoying an ice cream or iced tea, a little patio dining, some great shopping and plenty o’ fun!   See you Thursday, May 19!    Sláinte!     

For more information about Sláinte Thursday, visit www.HistoricDublin.org or the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau website.

~Gretchen Friend, Historic Dublin Business Assocation Coordinator

 

Mama’s Day Out in Dublin Ohio

Planning to treat Mom to a spectacular Brunch this Sunday?   Consider these Dublin, OH restaurants for unique menus, lovely settings and great memories. (Note: Call ahead for reservations and to confirm pricing.)

• Crowne Plaza Hotel in Metro Place. Prime Rib of Beef, Omelet Station, Breakfast and Dinner Entrees, Salads, Kids Buffet and a scrumptious dessert bar. 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. 600 Metro Place North. 614/760-7939. www.cpdublinoh.com  
• Marriott Columbus Northwest at Tuttle Crossing  The beautiful full-service Marriott Northwest puts out an amazing buffet spread to rival any other. Be sure to make your reservation early–as this one books quickly. 5605 Blazer Pkwy. 614/791-1000 ext. 4762 www.columbusmarriottnorthwest.com
• Digger & Finch.  Enjoy live music by Steve Ward, along with your buffet. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Reservations required. $24.95 adults; $10.95 kids.  6720 Riverside Dr. 614/889-8585 www.diggerandfinchpub.com
• Salvi’s Bistro — Prime Rib of Beef, Baked Ham, Pork Roast, Fried Chicken, and a variety of pastas and side dishes, salads and desserts. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $24.99, Children (5-11) $12.99, Children 4 and under are free. 5000 Upper Metro Place. 614/874-0466. www.salvisbistro.com
• Golf Club of Dublin. Seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Adults $21.95, Children (6-12) $9.95, Children 5 and under are free. 5805 Eitherman Rd.  614/792-3825. www.golfclubofdublin.com
• Hoggy’s. Mom can enjoy all of Hoggy’s signature comfort foods from the buffet, or try one of the featured new menu items. Buffet 11 a.m.-9 p.m.  Adults $15.95, Children $8.95.  7509 Sawmill Rd. www.hoggys.com 614/791-8661
• Hyde Park Steakhouse. Enjoy an elegant brunch including salad, choice of entree and dessert from 12-3 pm. $27.95 per person.  6360 Frantz Road 614/717-2828 www.hydeparkrestaurants.com
• J. Liu’s.  Treat mom to J. Liu’s unforgettable brunch comprised of their signature classics. 50 W. Bridge St. in Historic Dublin  614/718-1818 www.jliurestaurant.com
• La Scala Italian Bistro One of Dublin’s longstanding local establishments offers their famous Italian specialties. 4199 W. Dublin-Granville Rd.  614/889-9431
• Montgomery Inn (at the Shoppes at River Ridge) What mom doesn’t love amazing barbeque (especially when it’s prepared by someone else)? Add the lovely vistas overlooking the Scioto River and you can’t miss!  4565 W. Dublin-Granville Rd. www.montgomeryinn.com 614/791-7427

If you are looking for great gift ideas for Mom, try our local garden centers. From potted plants for the front porch to patio tomato pots, these stores also carry a great gift section as well:

-Baker’s Village Garden Center in Shawnee Hills http://www.bakersvillagegardencenter.com 614/889-9407
-Cedarbrook Nursery in Shawnee Hills 614/766-2100
-Oakland Nursery (Dublin-Granville Rd.) www.oaklandnursery.com 614/874-2400
-Strader’s Garden Center in Shawnee Hills http://www.straders.net 614/792-1970

 

Variation on the Valentine Variety

There is an Irish saying that goes, “You can give without loving, but you can’t love without giving.” So, in the interest of helping you gift from the heart this Valentine’s Day—we’ve scouted out some great deals and unique finds in Dublin, Ohio. Here’s the crème de la crème of our treasure hunt:

Getaways:

• Columbus Marriott Northwest Romance Package includes an overnight stay in this award-winning hotel, chocolate covered strawberries, Champagne and breakfast for two in the RiverCity Grille—all for $199. In addition, the hotel is offering an amazing Valentine’s Dinner for two for $65.
• Crowne Plaza Dublin Heart2Heart Romance Package. Includes an overnight stay in an executive room, a romantic candlelight dinner for two and a dessert at the Dublin Metro Grill, plus a complimentary bottle of the House Wine or Champagne and breakfast for two, all for $174.95.  Call 614/764-2200 for more info.
• Embassy Suites Dublin Suite Romance Package offers the perfect opportunity to rekindle the flame. Package includes luxury accommodations in a two-room suite, a complimentary bottle of wine*, chocolate covered strawberries and cooked-to-order breakfast buffet starting at $114/per night.  

Tasty Indulgences: 

•  J Liu Restaurant & Bar in Historic Dublin will feature a special menu for Valentine’s Day weekend.
• MJs Candy Bar offers unique finds like the Earl Grey candy bar (my personal fav) and the “Firecracker”—a concoction of specialty dark chocolate made with chipotle, salt and popping candy … perfect if you are “Popping” the question!
• Our Cupcakery will bundle a “4 Pack for Lovers” of  gourmet filled cupcakes in a pretty Valentine box wrapped with ribbon for $15. Woo your sweetie with flavors like Red Velvet, Raspberry Truffle, German Caramel or the decadent Triple Chocolate. 
•  Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt is featuring a Rose flavored yogurt for Valentine’s Day and kids Valentine crafts at various times over the weekend. Call for details: 614/339-5656
• Pair one of Graeter’s amazing French pot ice creams with their handcrafted chocolate covered marshmallow hearts for happy Valentine tummies of any age. (You can even send some Graeter’s love long distance through their website.)
• Visit Sisters Sweet Shoppe for hand-dipped chocolate covered strawberries, chocolate covered Peeps and heart-shaped frosted sugar cookies that can be personalized.
• Whole Foods  creative gift solutions include 20 stems of Whole Trade™ Roses for $20; 3-4oz. cold water lobster tails for $5.99 each (available Friday 2/11 ONLY); White Chocolate Raspberry Desire Cake for two $12.99 and fully catered dinners for two starting at $30  (www.wholefoods.com/shop)
• Kogens (Asian Fare with Flair!) has prepped a great Valentine’s weekend menu that is simply inspired— all for just $25 per person. Call for details (or reservations): 614/792-8882.

Need more ideas? Visit the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau website for an extensive list of local restaurants, shopping and attractions!

-Post by Mary

 

Party of One: How to dine solo while traveling

There is one common fear within our society when we go out to eat and that is… going out to eat ALONE.

When you are traveling for business you might find yourself ordering-in a pizza to your hotel, taking advantage of room service or grabbing take-out. Why resort to a styrofoam box when there are so many great restaurants surrounding you? Break free from the confines of your suite and treat yourself to a meal, party of one.

In honor of Solo Diners Eat Out Week
(Feb 1-7th) the Dublin CVB has some tips on how to be a solo diner whether you’re traveling alone, single, divorced, widowed, those whose spouses are away (or those who want to get away from their spouse.) There are a few tricks to make yourself feel comfortable in an otherwise uncomfortable situation.

1. Eat at the bar. This doesn’t mean you have to order a drink, but you can chit chat with the bartender or get a good view of a television screen to keep you entertained. It’s also easier to strike up a conversation with someone sitting at the bar stool over instead of a whole table over.

2. Carry a book, journal or magazine. In between savory bites of your steak, skim some reading material. You’ll get caught up on news and have talking points for when you do have company. We suggest the new 2011 Dublin Visitor & Event Planning Guide that’s chock-full of things you can do during your stay in Dublin.

3. Order appetizers for your meal. They are usually cheaper than a full meal and just as satisfying. The Columbus-based Max & Erma’s Restaurant recently unveiled their new “Wings Done Just Right” in flavors like Cannonball BBQ or Sweet Chili. Pair it with their new “Horseradish Cheddar Sliders,” three mini-burgers piled high with toppings. Best of all, there’s no sharing!

The Dublin Max & Erma’s conveniently neighbors four of our hotels and has been a hometown favorite for over 35 years.

Insider tip: Max & Erma’s Happy Hour is Monday – Friday from 4-7 p.m. and includes: $3 off select appetizers, $2 off draft beer, $1 off liquor/wine.

So save some money, get out and explore at least one of our 365 Dublin area-restaurants.

-Post by Allison

 

New Year’s Family Fun in Dublin Ohio

Resolving to ring in the New Year with your family in a fun (and different) way?  Several Dublin, Ohio businesses have come up with some fun activities and deals that won’t break the bank. Here are just a few ideas …

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt (7545 Sawmill Rd. 614/339-5656) is having a family New Year’s Eve party from 6-8 pm.  There will be hats, horns, favors and crafts for the kids.  Let them build a tasty, towering concoction from their favorite flavors of Fro Yo–topped with all the fun candies they love. There is no cost, other than any yogurt purchased.  7545 Sawmill Rd, 614-339-5656

In addition to the awesome New Year’s Eve package being offered by the Chase Suite Dublin Hotel (featured in this blog post), several other Dublin hotels are offering budget friendly, fun getaways.  The Embassy Suites Columbus/Dublin is hosting a family friendly New Year’s Eve package.  Enjoy early check-in (and late check-out) and an upgraded Manager’s Cocktail Reception with hors d’oeuvres.  Two Movie Rooms will be set up–one room with movies for young kids and one room with teen-oriented movies. (Parents must supervise their own children.) In addition, there will be a Family Game & Activity room with board games, crafts and appropriate family friendly music. Phillipo’s Pizza Shop will be open in the atrium to buy made-to-order pizza, wings by the dozen & soft drinks.  At midnight, there will be a countdown in the Atrium with snacks and a Champagne toast. Guests will enjoy a full, cooked-to-order buffet breakfast in the morning.  For more info, call 614/790-9000 or visit  www.embassysuitescolumbusdublinhotel.com

New Year’s Eve at the Hilton Garden Inn-Dublin will include a bottle of Champagne chilled in your suite upon arrival and an all-you-can-eat hot breakfast buffet for two.  For more info, call 614/766-9900 or visit www.hiltongardeninn.com

In addition to the festivites at The Brazenhead in Historic Dublin,  Digger & Finch Scottish Grill and Pub will be open until 2 a.m. and feature live music by The Ronnie Lee James band and Dancing from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.  Enjoy dinner specials until 10 p.m.  a Champagne toast at midnight.  (Late night appetizer menu from 10 p.m. –  1 a.m.)  For more info, call  614/889-8585 or visit  www.diggerandfinchpub.com

Sunny Street Café  (7042 Hospital Dr.) will close early on New Year’s Eve, but will be open 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on New Year’s Day to feed all the hardy partiers (and those of us who didn’t). 614/389-3640

 If we don’t see you on New Year’s Eve … see you next year in Dublin, Ohio!

 ~Post by Andrea