Clary’s plans return to southeast Springfield

The fine-dining spot relocated about a year ago to Battlefield Marketplace, 900 E. Battlefield Road, after nearly 18 years at its signature nook in Southern Hills Shopping Center on East Sunshine Street. The restaurant replaced Fish, another Clary-owned eatery that closed in June 2007.

When a chance came up to negotiate out of his Battlefield Marketplace lease, Clary said he jumped at the opportunity to find a smaller footprint in the southeast part of town, where most of his regular patrons live.

“What we’ve heard from a lot of our regular customers is that this location is too far away,” Clary said, noting that it did help pick up new south-side clientele. “But for me, it makes a lot more sense. I live over there, I grew up over there, my friends and family are over there. I’m a southeast guy.”

Clary said he could have a deal on the new location within 48 hours. He wouldn’t disclose details, but said the space did not previously house a restaurant.

Saturday will be the restaurant’s last day in Battlefield Marketplace, and it will be closed for up to six weeks during the transition, Clary said. Clary’s will continue its catering services in the meantime.