Fast Facts: Downtown Hospitality Businesses Making Headlines

Downtown’s restaurant and hospitality industry is a huge driver for tourism and economic stimulation for the urban core. Here are a few updates on big announcements coming from this community of small businesses:

• The Oregon District Business Association has submitted a petition to the Dayton City Commission to be considered for a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA). After such DORA zones were created by the Ohio State Legislature in 2015, the City of Dayton approved the regulations outlining the policies and procedures businesses must follow in order to obtain the DORA. Specific hours and marked locations, as well as details about branded cups and participating business markings were submitted with the application. City officials, including reps from police, public works, economic development, law and planning and community development departments, must now weigh in on the application before it’s approved.
• Winan’s announced it will open a coffeehouse in the first floor of a CareSource building at 217 N. Patterson Blvd. this fall. The shop will also serve wine and chocolates.
• Local distillery Belle of Dayton is offering tours of the facility on Wednesday and Thursday nights. Distillery tours give people an inside look to learn about craft distillation and spirits. The whole experience will give visitors the chance to see where Belle spirits are made, and includes a sampling of spirits-all made onsite. Visit the website to learn more and book a tour.

Funk-inspired downtown cafe Third Perk Coffeehouse and Wine Bar recently announced it will expand to an additional location at the Dayton Mall. Third Perk Express is set to open in the mall’s food court later this month. The shop also became an official vendor of the National Football League in July when it was selected to cater the NFL’s “Way to Play” camp. Third Perk’s downtown location offers coffee beverages, bistro salads and sandwiches, pastries, and wine and cocktails. Watch their Facebook page for special events, including brunch buffets, cocktail tastings, and live music.