Springfield fine-dining institution sold

The ownership of Clary’s Restaurant changed hands this week from founder Clary to Dave and Lynee Fender.

Clary said he opened the fine-dining spot at 3014-A E. Sunshine St. about 18 years ago with a $50,000 investment. The well-known chef said he couldn’t pass up the Fenders’ offer, which he received just a few weeks ago.

“I’m not saying he overpaid, but it was a very good offer,” Clary said.

Clary wouldn’t discuss details of the transaction, but he said the sale was finalized Monday.

Fender said he’s always dreamed of entering the restaurant business and recently sold his Republic-based stainless steel manufacturing company, The Turning Center LLC, to fulfill the dream.

Picking a restaurant to acquire was easy, he said.

“Clary’s is an institution,” Fender said. “James has set the highest standard for fine dining in Springfield.”

Fender said he won’t change the name of the restaurant or make any significant staffing changes. He said he’s fairly confident that chef William Mauk will agree to stay on.

Clary said he would assist Fender with restaurant operations in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.

Clary plans to focus his attention on “food and service issues” at Fish, a south Springfield casual dining restaurant that he co-owns with Carenna Butterbaugh. Fish, 900 E. Battlefield Road, opened Jan. 1, 2005, in Battlefield Marketplace.

See SBJ’s Aug. 28 issue for more about the sale of Clary’s.[[In-content Ad]]