Beyond the Pub: Why Supporting Local Restaurants Matters More Than Ever This Month

January hits the restaurant industry like a cold slap in the face every single year. After the holiday rush dies down, dining rooms that were packed just weeks ago suddenly feel eerily quiet. We know this reality all too well at Clancy's, and it's exactly why we're passionate about encouraging everyone to venture beyond their usual spots and explore what our local restaurant community has to offer.

Here's the thing – when you choose to dine locally instead of heading to another chain restaurant, you're not just getting a meal. You're investing in your community, supporting your neighbors, and keeping the unique character of West County alive. And right now, that support matters more than anything.

Our Personal Go-To Spots When We're Not Behind the Bar

We don't get out nearly as often as we'd like – between running the pub and chasing after the kids, date nights are pretty rare commodities in the Clancy household. But when we do manage to escape for a meal, or when we're looking for a family-friendly spot that gives us a break from pub grub, we have some tried-and-true favorites.

Places We Love (and Keep Going Back)

1. Vallarta Mexican Restaurant. Vallarta has been our go-to for authentic Mexican food for as long as we can remember. Generous portions, bold flavors, and the kind of consistency that never lets you down. They opened while I was away in the service, and I still remember calling my family just as they were sitting on the patio ordering their first round of margs. When I finally got home and tried it myself, the welcome was immediate. They knew me as a kid—and now they know and love our kids. It’s familiar, reliable, and always delicious.

2. San Jose Mexican Restaurant. We love having options, and San Jose brings a different take on Mexican food that keeps things interesting. Some days call for the comfort of Vallarta; other days, we’re in the mood for San Jose’s spin on the classics. Their queso and ice-cold salsa are staples, the margarita flights are fun, and Nick is a big fan of the carnitas tacos.

3. Hawthorne Inn. Hawthorne Inn holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a bit of a drive, but heading west feels like stepping into another world for a few hours. The atmosphere is cozy, the food is hearty, and it’s the kind of place that makes you slow down. Top recommendations: the Bowtie Jack, the pizza, and the stuffed mahi mahi. We’ve been going for years—and even hosted our staff Christmas party there—so that should tell you everything.

4. Massa’s of Course! Massa’s is where we go when we want to feel a little fancy without going overboard. We even gave several of our staff gift cards to Massa’s this holiday season because we believe in sharing the love with places that consistently deliver. Fun fact: Nick and I had our first date here. We sat at the bar—Kevin made me a pepperoncini martini, Nick ordered a Jameson on the rocks, and we split toasted ravioli. Nick swears by the Cajun pasta, and I always order the carbonara with chicken and peas.

5. Annie Gunn’s & Smokehouse Market. Annie Gunn’s is our splurge spot—the place we save for anniversaries and celebrations. When you want to remember why dining out can feel special, this is it. Grab a snug, order the Prussian oysters, get the steak, and wobble out happy. Worth every penny. Or, if you're in a rush and want something less formal, but just as delicious- run next store to their Smokehouse Market and grab a Lucky's Sure Bet.

6. Boardwalk Pizza. Boardwalk keeps things simple and does them right. When you want good pizza without any fuss, this is where we go. A classic pepperoni pizza and a house salad never miss.

7. Country Club Bar & Grill. Country Club Bar & Grill rounds out our regular rotation. John Cain has created the kind of neighborhood feel we love. It’s a great date-night spot with a solid wine list. We always start with the spinach dip. Nick orders the New York strip, and I always get the chicken gruyere—though the salmon BLT keeps calling my name. Fun fact: My dad played in his band here YEARS ago, when it was Poor Richard's! (Yes, I have the pictures.)

8. Sunny Street Café. Breakfast is my favorite meal to eat out—always has been. The hustle, the coffee, fluffy pancakes, savory eggs and bacon, hashbrowns… I love all of it. When Sunny Street opened in Wildwood, it became my go-to morning spot when I was pregnant with Penny and Roane. We had so many breakfast dates there. I always order the classic breakfast, Nick gets the Southwest Turkey Club, Roane orders the dinosaur pancakes and Penny is all about the protein: eggs with an extra side of bacon and sausage! The staff is always wonderful, the place is clean and bright, and the coffee is always hot.

Honorable Mentions (Because There Are Too Many Good Ones)

• Joey B’s – The Cardinal Chicken Sandwich

• Katie’s Pizza & Pasta – Lemon Paccheri

• Pizzarelli’s – Any New York–style pizza

• Tucker’s Place – 8 oz. filet with baked potato and salad

• JJ Twigs – Bacon & pineapple 9” lunch special + house salad

• Sarah’s on Central – “The Mayor” Bloody Mary

Why January is the Perfect Time to Give Places Another Shot

The only constant in the restaurant business is change. Menus evolve, recipes get tweaked, staff turns over, and systems improve. A place you visited a year or two ago may look and feel completely different today.

January is often when those changes take shape. With a slower pace, restaurants can fine-tune operations, retrain staff, and roll out improvements they’ve been planning all year. It’s a reset season—and for many places, a chance to get better at what they do.

Restaurants that last aren’t standing still. They’re always adjusting, learning, and improving.

The Bigger Picture: Why Local Support Creates a Stronger Community

Choosing locally owned restaurants means your dollars stay close to home, supporting local families, neighbors, suppliers, and other small businesses. These places aren’t just restaurants—they’re gathering spots where fundraisers happen, teams are supported, and memories are made.

Independent restaurants also give a community its character. Unlike chains that look the same everywhere, local spots reflect the people and places they serve. They’re part of what makes an area feel like home.

The January Challenge: Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone

We encourage you to use January as a time to explore your local dining scene. Try a restaurant you’ve never been to—or give one another chance with fresh expectations. Every place has off nights, but they also have the potential for really great ones.

January’s slower pace can actually make for a better dining experience: more attentive service, thoughtful recommendations, and an easier time getting a table. Supporting restaurants now helps ensure they’re still here for the moments that matter later—your celebrations, your traditions, and the nights you just don’t feel like cooking.

What We're Looking to Try Next

Here’s where we’d love your help. In 2026, we want to make it a priority to discover more local spots—new places and longtime favorites we somehow haven’t made it to yet. Running a restaurant keeps us close to home, but we’re committed to getting out there more.

Drop your recommendations in the comments. Breakfast spots, late-night bites, hidden gems—we’re open to it all. Supporting other local restaurants makes our whole food community stronger, and we’re excited to explore it together.

Making a Difference, One Meal at a Time

Supporting local restaurants goes far beyond one meal. It’s about building the kind of community we want our families to grow up in—places with character, connection, and people willing to take a chance on a dream.

This January, while big chains will be just fine, your local favorites truly feel the support. Whether you’re trying somewhere new, giving a place a second chance, or sharing a great experience with friends, those choices matter more than you might realize.

What local restaurant should we try next? Drop your recommendations in the comments – we're always looking for our next favorite spot! #SupportLocal