Every now and then, you find a place that doesn’t just serve great food — it serves good vibes, too. That was exactly our experience today at Pickles and Bones BBQ in Milford, Ohio. With its bright exterior, welcoming charm, and the irresistible scent of slow-smoked meats drifting out the door, this little BBQ joint made a big impression.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted like old friends. Renee, who runs the front of house with a warm smile and an even warmer heart, shared the story of how Pickles and Bones got started. It began as a humble food truck — just a dream on wheels — and grew into the cheerful brick-and-mortar spot it is today. At first, it served breakfast and lunch, but since breakfast crowds mostly came on weekends, the team decided to go all in on what they truly excel at: BBQ. And thank goodness they did.
You can taste the passion in every bite. And you can hear it in Renee’s voice when she talks — with unmistakable pride — about how far they’ve come. This isn’t just a business; it’s a labor of love.
Now, let’s talk food.
I ordered the Brisket Reuben, minus the sauerkraut (I know — a German who doesn’t like sauerkraut… I’m a walking contradiction). Instead, I added a side of their creamy coleslaw, which brought just the right crunch and tang. That brisket? Unreal. Smoky, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth good. Layered on marble rye, it hit every note of comfort, flavor, and satisfaction.
Each sandwich comes with two sides, and I didn’t hold back. I picked the hoe cakes — think cornbread and pancake had a delicious baby — served with sweet, rich sorghum butter that melted in all the right ways. My second side, the cheesy potato casserole, was everything you dream of in comfort food: gooey, golden, and outrageously good.
Now here’s where it gets funny — my wife pulled a classic move and copied my order… well, most of it. She duplicated the Brisket Reuben minus the kraut and the cheesy potatoes without hesitation. But she took her own path with the second side and went for the macaroni salad — creamy, cool, and perfectly seasoned. So technically not a total copycat… but let’s just say inspiration was heavily borrowed. Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but in this case, it was also the smartest lunchtime decision of the day.
Another standout? The house-brined pickles that come with every meal. But these aren’t your average deli pickles. Pickles and Bones adds jalapeños to the mix, giving them a bright vinegar kick that’s slightly sweet but not spicy — just a perfect, tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the BBQ.
We both had iced tea with our meals — mine was a half-and-half with lemonade, which hit the spot and paired perfectly with the smoky, savory flavors of the meal.
Just when we thought our experience couldn’t get any better, the staff surprised us with a complimentary dessert to welcome us on our first visit — a cup of banana pudding. Light, creamy, and packed with nostalgic flavor, it was the perfect exclamation point to end a fantastic meal.
But what truly makes Pickles and Bones special is the people. The staff greeted customers by name, checked in often with genuine smiles, and made everyone feel like family coming over for Sunday dinner. That kind of warmth isn’t something you can fake — it’s the real secret ingredient that makes this place shine.
We left full, happy, and beyond satisfied with our pick for lunch — and already talking about making a return visit.
So if you’re ever in the Milford area — or even if you’re not — make the effort.
Take the trip to Pickles and Bones BBQ. Your taste buds (and your heart) will be glad you did.
Bakery barn
Take the Trip by Brian 