Eat Like a Local: Sullivan-Area Dining
A practical guide to breakfast, barbecue, burgers, dinner, drinks and worthwhile short drives around Shamrock Court. These are independent local businesses, so check current hours before heading out—especially Bourbon Cafe and MK BBQ.
BREAKFAST & COFFEE
Bourbon Cafe & Coffee Saloon — Bourbon
A Roamin Rich favorite for scratch-made food, baked goods and coffee in a comfortable, eclectic setting. Hours are very limited, so confirm they are open before making the drive.
Country Skillet Cafe — Bourbon
A dependable country-cafe choice with breakfast, comfort-food plates and a broad selection through much of the day. Save room for dessert.
Sully’s at Sullivan Golf Course — Sullivan
A relaxed clubhouse restaurant with breakfast and casual meals, plus some of the best dining-room views in the area.
LUNCH, DINNER & LOCAL FAVORITES
MK BBQ — Sullivan
Small, passionately operated local barbecue serving smoked meats and hearty plates. Its schedule can be limited, so check current hours before going.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=MK+BBQ+Sullivan+MO
Rich’s Famous Burgers — Sullivan
A straightforward local stop for burgers, catfish and casual American food.
Menu and information: https://sullivan.richsfamousburgers.com/
El Nopal — Sullivan
A reliable choice for Mexican food and one of Rich’s regular local stops. Good when you want a familiar menu, generous portions and an easy meal.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=El+Nopal+Sullivan+MO
Boomer’s — Sullivan
Inexpensive bar food, cold drinks and genuine local color. Go for a casual meal, people-watching and a look at everyday Sullivan beyond the interstate exits.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Boomers+Sullivan+MO
Muddy Banks Brewing Company — Sullivan
An easygoing brewery with a comfortable atmosphere, smoked meats and locally brewed beer. A good middle-of-the-road choice when the group wants food and drinks in one place.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Muddy+Banks+Brewing+Company+Sullivan+MO
WORTH THE SHORT DRIVE
Sybill’s — St. James
A Roamin Rich 5-Star Favorite and the strongest destination-dining recommendation on this list. Polished food, attractive surroundings and a porch that makes the drive worthwhile. Reservations are encouraged.
Website: https://www.sybills.com/
Uncle Ernie’s — Bourbon
A laid-back nearby choice for burgers, sandwiches and casual specials. Useful when you are exploring old Route 66 through Bourbon.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Uncle+Ernies+Bourbon+MO
Bourbon Cafe & Coffee Saloon — Bourbon
Worth repeating because it is a favorite, but plan around its limited hours. Check its current Facebook information before leaving Sullivan.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Bourbon+Cafe+and+Coffee+Saloon+Bourbon+MO
Country Skillet Cafe — Bourbon
Good for travelers who need a substantial meal at almost any time of day, with plenty of familiar choices and notably good desserts.
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Country+Skillet+Cafe+Bourbon+MO
Peaceful Bend Winery — Steelville
A relaxed countryside outing for Missouri wine, craft drinks and food. Best treated as an excursion rather than a quick meal from the motel.
Website: https://peacefulbend.com/
Before You Go
Independent restaurant hours change, particularly in smaller Route 66 towns. Check the linked website, Facebook page or Google listing before driving. Looking for more than food? Explore Sullivan: https://www.shamrock66.com/explore-sullivan