Sybill's Saint James — Restaurant in St. James

Making a long road trip from Central Illinois to Texas, we happened to be passing through the culinary desert that is Central Southern Missouri. Searching for a better option than Wendy's or the lovely burritos at the next Kum & Go, we Googled and found Sybil's just off the highway. The menu looked amazing and we were excited to get a decent, possibly excellent, meal.

On arriving, it was surprising to see a nearly full parking lot. Yes, it was a Saturday night but I wouldn't have thought the economics of the area could support an upscale business at that volume. Turns out, guests come from many miles around to enjoy a night out at Sybil's.

We walked in and immediately knew we were underdressed. Here we were in road trip shorts and t-shirts and the clientele was dressed up for an elegant night out. Normally we would have left but that would mean a burger and fries on the roadside so we apologized to the hostess for our attire to see what response we'd get.

As it turns out, Sybil herself greeted us and thanked us for coming and assured us we were welcome, even without a reservation. She also recognized that we had been driving and helpfully pointed out the location of the restrooms. She went about finding a free table and within 10 minutes we were seated. I can't say enough about how comforting her hospitality was and we indeed felt welcome.

The food was fantastic. I got the ribeye (special that night) and she got a filet. Both were cooked to temperature perfectly and the accompanying mashed potatoes were delicious as well. I had also started with the lobster shrimp bisque, a house salad with clearly homemade thousand island dressing, and some lobster rangoons. All of these items were excellent with surprising flavors. Even the bread brought to the table was warm and hearty.

I don't normally write reviews like this but felt compelled to return the favor of Sybil's wonderful hospitality. I highly recommend visiting and we will be sure to plan another visit should we be passing...

This could have been the worse lunch ever...but thanks to Sybill's it was enjoyable. I drove my mother and I from Marionville, MO to Sybill's...2.5 hours, to meet up with her step cousins. The gift shop set the mood. I wanted to buy everything!! Then we all met for lunch at the restaurant. The waitress, Tina, was awesome. She was very busy but never let that show. I ordered the Reuben and Mom had the chicken salad plate...they were both beyond perfect. I never finish my sandwiches, I did not leave one bite. I had called head for reservations and advised I would be with 3 older ladies, one who could not hear so I wanted a quiet table near the ladies room. Ms. Sybill herself saved us literally the best possible table for us in the house. I had the Tuxedo cake. It was so good I wanted to buy more and just rolling it...lol. My Mothers step cousin, whom I have never met and she had not seen in over 30 yrs, turned out to be, well let's just say nosey, pushy and bordered on rude. This would have such a waste of gas, money and time...except for Sybill's. I would drive 2.5 hrs anytime to have that atmosphere, the decor, the kindness, the excellent service and the beyond this world good food. My only regret is Ms. Sybill was wearing amazing earrings, which we commented on. She kindly told us where she got them, but I did not write it down...now I can not remember. Thank you Sybill's and Tina for being so amazing you...

I just have to say that our experience at Sybil’s was over the top. I walked in a few days ago to purchase a gift card for our daughter and was floored by the details they put into their holiday decorations. I just had to make a reservation for the experience of the holiday spirit itself. The rest beyond my expectations. The food is five star. We had the flash fried oyster mushroom appetizer served with a creamy horseradish. It was well served and truly one of the most delicious mushroom dishes I’ve had so far. My husband ordered the salmon special with some kind of cherry sauce and couscous. He raved about it. I had a 6 oz filet and Canadian lobster tail that was cooked to perfection and served with a butter heater for dipping. My dish was served with mashed potatoes and squash medley and came with a soup. Let’s not forget about the desert which I normally by pass … the coconut cake is super most moist and delicious 🤤 The ambiance is entirely stunning, professionally decorated. Now the best for part… our waitress Bobbie! She took care of us as if we were her only table. She made great recommendations and checked on us quite regular ensuring we had what ever we required. We even requested that she look after our daughter when she comes in for her holiday gift dinner date night with her hubby. By far, Sybills is up to par with any other high end restaurant I’ve been to in big cities and the best I’ve been to so far in all...