You know that feeling when you find a place that just works? It isn't flashy. There aren't any neon signs screaming for attention from a mile away. It’s just there, reliable as a heartbeat, tucked away in Rome, Ohio. That’s Miles Supermarket & State Liquor Agency.
If you live in the Ashtabula County area, you already know the deal. But if you’re just passing through or maybe you’re new to the neighborhood, you might just drive right past it. That would be a mistake. Honestly, in an era where every grocery store feels like a sterile, corporate warehouse designed by a committee in a glass office building, Miles feels like a breath of fresh air. It's a throwback, but not in a "we forgot to update the floors since 1974" kind of way. It’s a throwback to when customer service meant something and the person behind the counter actually knew where the horseradish was kept.
What's the Deal with Miles Supermarket & State Liquor Agency?
The first thing you have to understand is the "State Liquor Agency" part of the name. In Ohio, liquor laws are... well, they're a bit specific. You can't just pick up a bottle of high-proof bourbon at every corner gas station. The state controls the distribution of spirituous liquor, which means they contract with specific local businesses to act as their agents.
Miles Supermarket & State Liquor Agency is one of those chosen spots.
This isn't just a place to grab a loaf of bread and some milk. It is a one-stop shop where you can prep for a backyard BBQ, stock your home bar, and grab a quick lunch all in one go. They’ve managed to maintain that "village market" vibe while staying relevant.
The Meat Counter is Actually the Star
Look, we have to talk about the meat. People travel for this.
It’s becoming increasingly rare to find a grocery store that still prioritizes a real, functional butcher shop. Most big-box retailers sell "case-ready" meat that was packaged hundreds of miles away in a factory. Miles? They do it differently. Their custom-cut meats are arguably the biggest draw for the locals.
- Freshness: You can see the difference in the color. It’s not that weird, pumped-with-gas pink you see at the mega-marts.
- Custom Cuts: Want a ribeye cut three inches thick because you’re feeling ambitious with the smoker? Just ask. They’ll do it.
- The Famous Smoked Meats: This is where things get serious. Their smoked meats—especially the jerky and the sticks—have a bit of a cult following.
It’s the kind of quality that makes you realize you’ve been settling for subpar steaks for way too long. The butcher knows the inventory. If you ask what’s looking good today, they aren't going to give you a scripted answer. They’ll point to the brisket and tell you exactly why it’s the right choice for Sunday dinner.
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Navigating the Spirits and Brews
Because they are a designated State Liquor Agency, their selection is governed by Ohio’s Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ). This is actually a massive benefit for you, the shopper. It means they have access to the same wholesale pricing and inventory systems as the giant liquor stores in Columbus or Cleveland.
But here is the secret: because it’s a local supermarket, you often have a better chance of finding those "allocated" bottles that disappear instantly at the massive city stores.
Think about it.
The "taters" (that’s bourbon-speak for the guys who hunt rare bottles) usually swarm the big-name liquor stores. They often overlook the local supermarket in Rome. While there are never any guarantees when it comes to things like Blanton’s or Eagle Rare, Miles is the kind of place where you might just get lucky on a Tuesday morning.
Beyond the hard stuff, their beer and wine section is surprisingly robust. They carry the domestic staples, sure, but they also lean into the local Ohio craft scene. Whether you're looking for a heavy stout for a cold Lake Erie winter night or a crisp Riesling from the nearby Grand River Valley wineries, they’ve usually got a shelf dedicated to exactly that.
More Than Just Groceries
It’s easy to focus on the "State Liquor Agency" part of the sign, but don't sleep on the "Supermarket" side. It's a full-service grocery. They have produce, dairy, frozen goods, and a bakery section.
One thing people often miss is the deli.
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If you’re working nearby or just driving through on Route 6, their deli sandwiches are a godsend. They aren't fancy. There’s no "artisanal aioli" or "micro-greens" harvested by moonlight. It’s just good meat, fresh bread, and enough toppings to actually satisfy you. It’s honest food.
The Logistics: Where, When, and How
If you're trying to find them, they are located at 2460 US-6, Rome, OH 44085.
The location is pretty strategic. It sits right on a main artery, making it a convenient stop for people heading toward Pymatuning or coming back from the lake.
Pro-tip for the Liquor Agency: Remember that in Ohio, liquor sales have specific hours that might differ slightly from the general grocery store hours, especially on Sundays. Generally, Miles stays open late enough to catch the after-work crowd, but if you’re hunting for a specific bottle, calling ahead is never a bad idea. They can’t "hold" spirits for you—that’s against state law—but they can tell you if they have it in stock.
Why the "Local" Aspect Matters
When you shop at a place like Miles Supermarket & State Liquor Agency, your money stays in the community. That sounds like a cliché from a Chamber of Commerce brochure, but it’s true. The people working there are your neighbors. They support the local schools and the local fairs.
There is a level of accountability there that you don't get at a national chain. If you buy a bad piece of meat at a giant retailer, you’re just a transaction number. If you have an issue at Miles, you’re talking to a person who cares about their reputation in the town.
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Go
Don't expect a 50-aisle warehouse. This is a compact, efficient grocery store. If you are looking for some incredibly obscure, imported dragon fruit from a specific province in Southeast Asia, you might be out of luck.
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But if you want:
- High-quality, butcher-cut beef and pork.
- A massive selection of Ohio-regulated liquor and spirits.
- Fresh, daily-made deli items.
- The convenience of a quick in-and-out shop without the 20-minute walk from the parking lot.
Then this is your spot.
One thing to watch out for is the holiday rush. Because they are the primary liquor agency for a decent-sized radius, the days leading up to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the Fourth of July can get busy. Like, really busy. The parking lot fills up, and the line for the liquor counter can snake back into the aisles. Plan accordingly. Go on a Tuesday or Wednesday if you can.
The Verdict on Miles
Is it the fanciest store in the world? No. Is it the cheapest? It’s competitive, but you’re paying for quality, especially at the meat counter.
What it is, though, is a cornerstone of the Rome community. It represents a style of retail that is slowly dying out—a place that does a few things exceptionally well and treats people like humans instead of data points.
Whether you're stocking up for a camping trip, grabbing a bottle of local bourbon for a gift, or just need some really good bacon for Saturday morning, Miles Supermarket & State Liquor Agency delivers. It’s one of those local gems that makes a small town feel like home.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
To get the most out of your trip to Miles, keep these points in mind:
- Check the Meat Specials: They often have "bundles" or bulk deals on meat. If you have a deep freezer, this is the way to go. Ask the butcher if they have any bulk packs available.
- Use the OHLQ Website: If you are looking for a specific bottle of liquor, use the OHLQ.com site to check Miles' inventory in real-time. It’s not 100% perfect, but it’s pretty close.
- Try the Jerky: Seriously. Just grab one pack of the house-made smoked meat. You’ll be back for more next week.
- Time Your Visit: Aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid the "after-work" liquor rush and get the first pick of the fresh-cut meats.
- Bring a Cooler: Especially in the summer. If you’re buying their fresh meat or some cold brews, you don’t want them sitting in a hot car while you run other errands in Ashtabula County.
The store is a staple for a reason. Go in, say hi to the staff, and see why the locals have been loyal to this place for years. You won't regret it.