When Robert St. John speaks about food, he brings stories of people and places with him. Recently, he shared his journey at the Starkville-Oktibbeha County Public Library during a talk organized by the Starkville Friends of the Library. St. John’s roots in this Mississippi city run deep, filled with experiences that tie him to the community.
His book, “Mississippi Christmas,” mixes childhood memories from Hattiesburg with recipes that resonate with readers. At the event, he emphasized how food connects us and keeps memories alive—whether it’s meals from childhood or dishes served in his restaurants across the state.
Mayor Lynn Spruill asked if he would consider opening a restaurant in Starkville. St. John revealed that he’d thought about it several times. He mentioned a near-launch of Ed’s Burger Joint, which didn’t happen due to property issues. He enjoys visiting Starkville without the pressure of running a restaurant, especially since his apartment in New Orleans gives him access to one of the nation’s top food scenes. Yet, he remains open to the idea of a future restaurant there.
St. John also highlighted some of his favorite local spots. While he didn’t pick a single favorite, he shared his long-standing love for Oby’s, a place he frequented since 1976. He noted his friendships with local restaurateurs and acknowledged the vibrant dining options Starkville offers.
For St. John, food represents more than just taste; it symbolizes connections. His upcoming recipes in “Mississippi Christmas” reflect love, community, and the spirit of the holidays. Each dish carries a story, drawing from his own life experiences and the places he’s visited.
The reading reminded everyone that food journeys are not just personal—they’re communal. Attendees left inspired by St. John’s philosophy that meals can bridge our past with our present, intertwining family and community.
As he continues his Mississippi book tour this holiday season, he will share joyful and chaotic memories, including his infamous tinsel tradition in his regular food column. For those in Starkville, they can cherish St. John’s stories and hope one day to enjoy a meal at his future restaurant.
According to recent surveys, 79% of people believe that sharing food enhances relationships, proving that St. John’s views resonate widely. His experiences and insights remind us that food is indeed a bridge—connecting us not just to our memories, but to each other.
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