The Governor
Restaurant seen on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

About
THE GOVERNOR

Milford’s Modern Diner with a Golden Touch

Tucked away in the welcoming city of Milford, Ohio, there’s a spot that has quickly become more than just a place to grab a meal—it’s a community landmark. The Governor, dreamed up and brought to life by brothers Paul and Neil Barraco, is a shining example of what happens when passion, creativity, and love for people come together under one roof. This modern diner isn’t simply a restaurant—it’s an experience, and one that locals and travelers alike have come to cherish.

A neighborhood diner for everyone

From the moment you walk in, The Governor feels like home. It’s not just the stylish but comfortable design that sets the stage, it’s the way the staff greets you, the hum of conversation, and the steady flow of plates filled with inventive comfort food. The Barraco brothers envisioned a spot where Milford residents could gather, laugh, and share food that feels both familiar and fresh, and they’ve hit the nail on the head.

What makes The Governor stand out is that it balances being a trendy modern diner without losing that small-town soul. Whether you’re there for a weekday breakfast, a quick brunch with friends, or a dinner that turns into a lingering night of conversation over drinks, it feels like the right place at the right time.

The menu: comfort food reinvented

The Governor’s menu reads like a greatest hits album of diner favorites with just enough inventive flair to keep things exciting. Each dish is crafted with care, leaning into high-quality ingredients and thoughtful combinations. It’s comfort food elevated—but not overcomplicated.

Take their Deviled Potato Skins for instance: a mashup of two classics that feels like it was always meant to be. Or their Lobster Roll, a nod to New England tradition, yet plated with that Ohio diner charm. Brunch lovers rave about the French Toast, thick-cut and perfectly golden, while the Short Rib Grilled Cheese delivers that ooey-gooey richness that Guy Fieri himself would call “a flavor bomb.”

Fans of salads aren’t left behind either. The Smoked Salmon Salad offers fresh balance, while the Steak Salad piles on protein for those looking to keep it hearty. And then there’s the Mushroom Fromlette—a clever play on a mushroom omelet that manages to be both earthy and indulgent.

But that’s just scratching the surface. Regulars know that there’s always something new to try. From the Lamb French Dip that melts in your mouth to the nostalgic bowl of Italian Wedding Soup, this is a menu that rewards repeat visits. And for the adventurous, dishes like Fried Chicken Livers bring old-school flavor to a new generation of diners.

Drinks with personality

Food may take the spotlight at The Governor, but the drink selection deserves equal attention. The menu is filled with creative concoctions that pair perfectly with any meal. From imaginative brunch cocktails to refreshing non-alcoholic options, there’s something for every taste and every mood.

What sets these drinks apart is the same thing that defines the food—attention to detail. It’s not just about mixing flavors, it’s about creating something that fits the vibe of the place: laid-back, approachable, and endlessly enjoyable.

Community at the heart

While the menu is enough reason to visit, what makes The Governor special is the sense of community it fosters. This is more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect. Families gather here for Sunday brunch, friends meet up for a weekday catch-up, and travelers passing through Milford quickly realize they’ve stumbled upon a local gem.

Paul and Neil Barraco have built more than a restaurant; they’ve built a gathering place. It’s the kind of spot where birthdays are celebrated, stories are shared, and memories are made. That’s why when locals describe The Governor, the word “family” comes up just as often as “food.”

Why it’s a five-star standout

On a show like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Guy Fieri has seen it all—classic greasy spoons, modern takes, and everything in between. But if you’re looking for a place that checks all the boxes of what makes a diner great—warm atmosphere, innovative but comforting menu, drinks that impress, and a genuine sense of hospitality—The Governor rises to the top.

This is a place where the phrase “five-star” doesn’t feel like an exaggeration. It’s earned. Every plate, every smile, and every detail reflects the Barraco brothers’ vision of what dining should be: joyful, flavorful, and deeply connected to the people it serves.

Must-try favorites

If it’s your first visit and you’re wondering where to start, here’s a lineup of menu items you can’t go wrong with:

Deviled Potato Skins – a playful twist on two diner classics.

Lobster Roll – East Coast flavor, Ohio-style hospitality.

French Toast – brunch perfection, thick and golden.

Short Rib Grilled Cheese – melty, meaty, and unforgettable.

Smoked Salmon Salad – fresh and satisfying.

Lamb French Dip – tender and savory, a standout sandwich.

Italian Wedding Soup – comfort in a bowl, just like grandma used to make.

But honestly? You could close your eyes, point at the menu, and walk away happy.

Final thoughts

The Governor isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a reminder of what makes diners special. It’s the place you go not only because the food is incredible (which it is), but because it feels like where you’re supposed to be. Whether you’re passing through Milford on a road trip or you’re lucky enough to live nearby, this is one stop that deserves a spot on your personal “best places to eat” map.

So next time you’re hungry for more than just a meal—hungry for an experience, for a connection, for something that feels like home—pull up a chair at The Governor. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
Aired on August 4, 2023
Updated August 24, 2025

Address / Location

231 Main St
Milford, OH 45150

513-239-8298 website