Discovering The Silos: Dayton’s New Foodie Haven at a Historic Site

If you've been craving a fresh spot to eat, drink, and unwind in Dayton, you're in for a treat. The Silos, a brand-new food hall and beer garden, has officially opened its doors at 810 E. 1st Street, right next to the 2nd Street Market in downtown Dayton. After months of anticipation—this place celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Valentine's Day 2025. Let's dive into why The Silos is quickly becoming a local favorite.

A Historic Spot Reimagined

The Silos isn't just another eatery—it's a creative rebirth of a historic site. Sitting on a 1.5-acre property, this venue blends Dayton's industrial past with a modern community twist. Founders Wes Hartshorn and Shannon Thomas initiated the project in July 2024, turning their vision into reality. Hartshorn, who moved to Dayton 15 years ago, told WYSO he saw untapped potential here after traveling the Midwest with his wife. "Dayton was missing out on commercial beer gardens," he said, and The Silos is his answer to that gap. The result? A space that's part nostalgia, part innovation—think shipping containers turned into food stalls framed by those iconic silos.

Four Flavors, One Roof

What sets The Silos apart is its lineup of four local food vendors, each bringing something distinct to the table. Nood Bar, a new concept from Chef Dane Shipp, dishes out Asian-inspired noodle bowls, bao buns, and dumplings with a Dayton flair. Shipp told Dayton Daily News, "I've always loved Asian food… I wanted to give Dayton something it was missing." Then there's The Burger Bistro by Chef Centruela "Cece" Collier, elevating classics with options like buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches and black bean burgers—don't skip the cheese fries with their house-made sauce. KungFu BBQ brings a unique fusion of Filipino, Japanese, Hawaiian, and Mexican influences, serving up brisket birria tacos that pack a smoky punch. Rounding it out is Indigo, offering gluten-free, plant-forward dishes featuring seasonal farm-to-table salads, grain bowls, and herbal elixirs.

These vendors surround a central bar that's the heart of the action, pouring 16 Ohio craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Whether you're a hophead or a mocktail fan, there's something to sip while you soak in the vibe.

Unique Features and Future Plans

The Silos boasts several distinct areas including The Front Yard, American Yard, Little India, and European Alley. A 1,500-square-foot mezzanine provides additional seating, and the venue features one of only three feather bowling courts in the country. Future development plans are equally exciting, with proposals for a coffee shop, an event center, converting four silos into Airbnbs, and creating a wildflower garden with walking paths.

Why It Matters to Dayton

This isn't just about good eats; it's a boost for downtown. The Silos sits steps from the 2nd Street Market, tying into Dayton's food culture while adding a fresh layer. It's a magnet for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of Dayton's evolving identity—where history meets a bold, delicious future.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore? Head to 810 E. 1st Street—street parking's available, and it's easy to spot. Hours run Monday (bar-only) 4-10 PM, Tuesday-Thursday 4-10 PM, Friday 4 PM-midnight, Saturday 11 AM-midnight, and Sunday 11 AM-7 PM. Follow @silosdayton on Facebook or Instagram for updates on events and specials.

The Silos is more than a food hall—it's Dayton's newest reason to gather, eat, and enjoy. Have you checked it out yet? Let me know your favorite dish—or what you're dying to try—in the comments!