The Pickled Pig
Restaurant seen on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

About
THE PICKLED PIG

Cincinnati’s Farm-to-Table Deli Gem

In the heart of Cincinnati’s buzzing food scene, The Pickled Pig stands out as a true original — a deli-style eatery where tradition meets innovation. Recently featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this local treasure is finally getting the national spotlight it has deserved for years. With a dedication to handcrafted, made-from-scratch food and a passion for pushing the limits of what a deli can be, The Pickled Pig is redefining comfort food in all the best ways.

From Grandmother’s Kitchen to Flavortown

Owned and operated by the dynamic duo Gary and Libby, The Pickled Pig was born from a shared love of food, nostalgia, and good old-fashioned kitchen magic. Both grew up watching their grandmothers make soulful, homemade meals, and that same spirit is baked into everything they create today. Since opening its doors in 2013, The Pickled Pig has been steadily building a loyal following of locals and travelers alike who appreciate honest food with serious flavor.

Here, farm-to-table isn’t just a trendy buzzword — it’s the real deal. Every item on the menu is crafted with intention, showcasing fresh ingredients, slow-smoked meats, fermented delights, and an unwavering commitment to scratch cooking.

The Deli Counter Reimagined

While many places rely on mass-produced products and pre-packaged shortcuts, The Pickled Pig has taken a bold step in the opposite direction. It's a deli-style setup with counter service, but once you dig into the menu, it’s clear this isn’t your average sandwich shop. There’s artistry in the way Gary and Libby prepare their smoked meats, the care they take in fermentation, and the thought behind every side dish and house-made condiment.

Everything is made to order, giving guests the freshest possible experience. It’s quick service without sacrificing quality — a perfect marriage of efficiency and flavor-forward food.

Flavors That Break the Mold

Let’s talk about the food, because honestly, it’s why we keep coming back.

Start with their Pulled Pork Sandwich, a standout favorite featuring pork that’s been slow-cooked until it’s fall-apart tender, then stacked on their homemade sourdough rye bread. It’s smoky, juicy, and full of character — no sauce needed (though it’s available if you want to amp it up even more).

Another must-try is their Smoked Salmon Tacos, a brilliant fusion of deli and coastal vibes. The flaky, house-smoked salmon is paired with bright toppings and wrapped in a soft tortilla — a surprising and delightful bite that breaks the traditional mold.

Craving something hearty? The Pork Burger is one of the best in the state. It’s flavorful, perfectly grilled, and always juicy. And then there’s the Smoked Chicken Sandwich, which takes simplicity to new heights with its tender meat, subtle smoke, and scratch-made accompaniments.

Vegetarians and veggie lovers haven’t been forgotten either. The Grilled Veggie Baba is loaded with flavor and packed with freshness — a great meatless option that doesn’t feel like an afterthought.

Side Dishes That Steal the Show

Let’s not skip the sides — because at The Pickled Pig, they’re stars in their own right.

Their Potato Salad is creamy, zesty, and loaded with texture and personality. The Black Bean Soup is comfort in a bowl, slow-simmered with spices that warm you from the inside out.

But what really sets them apart is their love for fermentation. Their assortment of pickled vegetables adds a punch of brightness and crunch to any meal. Whether it’s Korean carrots with just the right tang or their house-made krauts, these sides are a celebration of balance and boldness.

The Smoked Turkey Reuben, served on their fresh-baked sourdough rye, is another can’t-miss dish. It takes a deli classic and elevates it with artisan precision. Every bite is stacked with flavor, from the house-smoked turkey to the tangy slaw.

More Than a Meal — It's an Experience

What makes The Pickled Pig such a standout is not just the food — it’s the entire experience. Gary and Libby don’t just want to feed you; they want to share their story, their memories, and their passion for food. And it shows.

The vibe is warm, welcoming, and unpretentious. Whether you’re dining solo at the counter or bringing in the whole crew, you’re treated like family. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and just as excited about the food as the customers are.

There’s also something incredibly satisfying about seeing the open kitchen in action. Watching food made from scratch — with real ingredients and real care — gives a sense of connection to your meal that’s hard to come by these days.

Cincinnati’s Culinary Crown Jewel

The city of Cincinnati is filled with great eats, but The Pickled Pig has carved out a place all its own. It’s the kind of spot that food lovers dream about — where every bite tells a story, and every plate is made with passion. Thanks to their recent Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives feature, the secret is out. But even before the cameras showed up, this was a place worth celebrating.

Gary and Libby have created something truly special: a deli where everything is personal, where the traditions of the past meet the flavors of the future, and where you can taste the love in every bite.

My Final Bite

So if you’re road tripping through Ohio, exploring the food scene in Cincinnati, or simply searching for your next great meal — don’t pass up The Pickled Pig. From the house-smoked meats to the fermented veggies and that killer sourdough rye, every part of this menu is a home run. It’s one of our favorite deli-style eateries in the country, and we’re certain it’ll be one of yours too.
Aired on August 22, 2025
Updated July 10, 2025

Address / Location

645 E McMillan St
Cincinnati, OH 45206

513-748-7114 website