Our Story

In 1924, as part of his ongoing efforts as an entrepreneur and community leader, Mr. Jean Joseph Sibilly built Sib’s On The Mountain (Sib’s) on a piece of previously undeveloped land to house a grocery store and bar for the people of the Northside for many years. In that same year, Mr. Sibilly also donated land to the Catholic church to build what is now Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church as well as the land for a public school for the Northside children which now appropriately bears his name, Joseph Sibilly Elementary School.
Back in those days “The Shop” as it was called, was the only grocery on the Northside. Friends and neighbors came to “The Shop” on their donkeys to purchase goods and socialize. On weekends Sib’s was also known as the place to get wine and spirits behind the grocery store and attracted an audience for weekend boxing. Mr. Sibilly took exceptional care of the grounds that surround the bar. He established a garden that grew the local fruits and provisions in the back of the building that has recently been known as the garden dining terrace.
Whether shopping for groceries in the old days, dropping in for a drink or some good food, Sib’s has always been the place to stop on the way home for one. This is where the slogan “Sibs 4 One Can’t Be Done” came from. You can’t stop at Sib’s and have just one drink. Once you stop, you’re sure to meet neighborhood friends and family and you can’t resist spending several hours catching up with food and fun. Eventually, the responsibilities of Sib’s were passed on Joseph Sibilly’s son, Leo Sibilly Sr., who not only operated Sib’s but also managed numerous tenants for many years. Tenants like Jimmy Loveland can’t be forgotten for the years of Octoberfest celebrations and Bastille Day functions.
Sib’s On The Mountain is currently operated by Joseph Sibilly’s grandson, Leo Sibilly Jr., and his wife Jennifer Sibilly, who are determined to continue his legacy to provide Virgin Islanders and visitors with quality food and cocktails, while enjoying the cool Mountain breeze. Sib’s has been embraced by family and friends and hopes to continue its legacy for many years to come. Sib’s is known to be the oldest bar and restaurant on St. Thomas.

The Sibilly Family