How a Small-Town Restaurant Builds a Loyal Family Through Unforgettable Customer Service

At Milkey’s Place in Barry, Illinois, customers become family from the moment they walk through the door.

"They know your name when you walk in here," said Daman Emrick, who eats at the restaurant three to four times a week.

The small-town restaurant has built a loyal following through exceptional customer service that goes far beyond taking orders. Owner John Howell and his daughter, who help run the business, check on elderly customers who don’t show up for their regular visits.

"Some of the elderly, we check on and make sure they’re ok. If someone needs something to eat, we’ll deliver them some food," John Howell said.

Regular customers become part of the family

David Sharrow drives from Pittsfield twice a week like clockwork for fried chicken and fish on Fridays. Reba Bainter comes in Thursday and Friday for the same specialties.

"We treat everyone who comes in here like family," Tammy Howell said.

The restaurant’s specialty items include oversized tenderloins and hot beef plates that surprise first-time visitors with their size.

"When it comes out, the look on everyone’s face, seeing how big it really is catches everybody off guard," Emrick said.

Community support extends beyond food

Milkey’s features "Barry’s Wall of Prayer" where customers can request prayers for friends, family and neighbors who are struggling.

"It’s for people who aren’t doing very good. We put their names on there," Tammy said.

The community spirit flows both ways. During busy times, customers help take orders and serve food.

"There will be some that take their orders for them and take them back there for them and bring out the orders for them if they get real busy," Bainter said.

Thanksgiving tradition brings community together

Each Thanksgiving, Milkey’s prepares and serves a free-will donation dinner for anyone who needs a meal.

"We got people who come who have no place to go, nobody to cook for and some people just can’t do for themselves," Tammy said.

John Howell, who drove trucks for 48 years before opening the restaurant, said his experience eating at restaurants across the country taught him the importance of exceptional service.

"I know how some people treat you," he said. "I enjoy it more than anything I’ve ever done in my life."

The restaurant’s name comes from a 1979 misspelled check made out to "Milkey" instead of "Mike." The check cleared and the nickname stuck.

Those interested in joining the Thanksgiving meal should RSVP to ensure enough food is prepared.