Wheat Penny Wins Battle of the Bartenders, Expands with New Restaurant

Dayton's popular Wheat Penny Oven and Bar defends its title while also opening a new sister location.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Wheat Penny Oven and Bar, one of Dayton's favorite restaurants, is celebrating a big win at the Miami Valley Restaurant Association's Battle of the Bartenders competition. The restaurant, which is the reigning champion, is also expanding with a brand-new sister location.

Why it matters

Wheat Penny has become a beloved institution in Dayton's dining scene, known for its creative cocktails and commitment to locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's victory at the bartender competition and expansion plans signal its continued growth and popularity within the community.

The details

Wheat Penny Oven and Bar competed in and won the Miami Valley Restaurant Association's Battle of the Bartenders event held at The Steam Plant. The restaurant's bartender, Bryan Sturgill, helped lead the team to victory. In addition to the bartender competition win, Wheat Penny is also expanding, opening a brand-new sister restaurant location.

  • Wheat Penny competed in and won the Battle of the Bartenders on February 25, 2026.

The players

Wheat Penny Oven and Bar

A popular restaurant in Dayton, Ohio, known for its creative cocktails and commitment to locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Bryan Sturgill

The bartender at Wheat Penny Oven and Bar who helped lead the team to victory in the Battle of the Bartenders competition.

Miami Valley Restaurant Association

The organization that hosts the annual Battle of the Bartenders competition in Dayton.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to defend our title at the Battle of the Bartenders and excited to bring our unique dining experience to even more Dayton residents with our new restaurant location.”

— Liz, Chef (WKEF)

What’s next

Wheat Penny plans to open its new sister restaurant location in the coming months, expanding its reach within the Dayton community.

The takeaway

Wheat Penny's continued success, from winning a prestigious bartender competition to expanding its footprint, demonstrates the restaurant's commitment to innovation, quality, and serving the Dayton community.