The Pennell - Butler

The service was disappointing and the food was even worse. However, the restaurant itself is absolutely beautiful. I truly wish there was a great dining experience to match the lovely setting.

We had an incredible dining experience with exceptional service! I ordered the chicken dinner, which came with homemade rolls, a salad, vegetables, and a loaded baked potato. Everything was delicious, and I could only manage to eat half of it! It was just $14! My husband chose the KC Ribeye, which included the same sides as my meal. It was cooked to perfection and is one of the best steaks he has ever had, as well as the priciest.

This restaurant is situated in a charming historic hotel, and it's located in what was formerly the lobby. Unfortunately, I wish the quality of the food and service matched the lovely ambiance. The service was slow and inconsistent, and we tried their tacos, which were the most unusual I've ever had!

The Pennell is truly unique! My wedding party rented the space for the weekend and we had an amazing time! The food was excellent, the drinks were fantastic, and the atmosphere was wonderful! If you're in town or planning an event, I highly recommend The Pennell!

While there are decent dining options off the highway, including the Flaming Lantern, which I've loved for over a decade, I urge you to skip them if you’re in search of a truly remarkable meal in a distinctive setting. First impressions truly matter, and the 1906 brick building resonates with a sense of history. The interior mirrors the grandeur of its exterior; stepping inside, you’ll feel transported from the quiet, reserved community of Butler to a dazzling art deco paradise reminiscent of 1920s Miami. The dining room features palm trees, a checkered tiled floor, soaring ceilings, and beautiful arches. The back bar area evokes a 1920s speakeasy vibe, complete with wood-paneled walls, cozy couches, and a fully stocked bar. Now, let’s talk about the food. The special on the night we visited was a massive ribeye topped with Gorgonzola cheese. Normally, I prefer my steak with nothing but its own juices, but this dish was truly exceptional. The garlic or mashed potatoes were decent but hardly necessary when such a fantastic cut of meat is on your plate. Other menu highlights included a generous pound of boiled shrimp—impressive for landlocked Missouri—and a perfectly grilled double pork chop. We were so satisfied that we had no room left for dessert, even with the temptation lingering! The service here is outstanding. Our server was attentive, engaging in small talk and ensuring our needs were met. To top it off, the owner stopped by to chat, and the chef even came out after our meal to check that everything was to our liking. The atmosphere is welcoming, allowing everyone—from the staff to the patrons—to enjoy themselves without judgment. Everyone is simply there for the same reason: great food and good times. An intriguing aspect of The Pennell is its connection to the paranormal. Although I'm not particularly fond of ghosts or spirits, the stories surrounding the alleged apparitions here are captivating. The owners have even invited well-known ghost hunters to investigate the place. If you're feeling adventurous after your meal, there are a couple of hotel rooms available upstairs for rent, perfect for a fun night away while you search for any supernatural encounters. Take the time to drive down to Butler and experience The Pennell. Once you taste the food and absorb the atmosphere, you'll see that it’s a no-brainer. Don’t let the hour-long drive or the off-highway location deter you from enjoying such a unique restaurant.