About us.

Sycamore began in 2005 from a desire to support ourselves and our families by doing what we love; cooking and serving food and drink to our friends and family. “We”, originally were Mike Odette, Amy Barrett, and us, Jill and Sanford Speake. Before opening Sycamore we had all worked in a variety of Columbia restaurants: Trattoria Strada Nova, Booches, Cherry St. Wine Cellar, Murry’s, Les Bourgeois Bistro, and the MU Alumni Center. We occasionally got together and fantasized about our own place…often fueled by whiskey and wine! This space became available and it was Amy who pushed us, and provided the initial organization. We are named after a tree because of obvious symbolism: we want to be rooted in our community, and change and evolve with each season, and each year. We wanted our menu to relate to what our customers would recognize, but elevated. We wanted it mostly to be driven by what was in season, and local. We wanted to work with mid-Missouri farmers, ranchers, and dairies. Over the years we have developed amazing relationships with these people and these places, through their products. Our children have grown up here, and our staff have continued as chefs, and managers, in their own restaurants. Our commitment to our friends and family has broadened to our community and those just passing through Columbia.  In August of 2018 Jill and I bought out Mike and Amy, who’s lives were taking them in different directions. Our goal was, and still is, to enrich your dining out experience in Columbia by offering locally sourced, well crafted dishes in a lively, comfortable atmosphere. Whether you're celebrating a special event or need a quick bite and a drink at the bar, we hope to make you a regular. 

Thanks for stopping by, 

Sanford Speake and Jill Speake