Clark County dining scene about to expand with these restaurants

The rear patio and bar at the former 316 Tap & Barrel Grill, which is being renovated and will reopen as Mad River Tavern in October, owners said. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

The rear patio and bar at the former 316 Tap & Barrel Grill, which is being renovated and will reopen as Mad River Tavern in October, owners said. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

Clark County’s food choices will grow with two new businesses planning to open soon and one site that had been closed for some time in the midst of reopening with a new German menu.

The three businesses are Mad River Tavern in Medway, plus The Villa Pizzeria and Hafle Winery, both in Springfield.

The Springfield News-Sun told you in early July that a couple planned to open the Mad River Tavern at the site of the former Tavernette at 111 W. Main St. in Medway.

Dustin Gilroy and his wife, Tiffany, have been busy getting the place ready, including an upgrade to the parking lot across the street, and seeking a new head cook.

The Gilroys now are targeting an opening in October.

The Mad River Tavern will feature American pub food and introduce Clark County to fried pizza. The crust is stuffed with a couple ingredients, folded over and deep fried, then garlic butter and seasonings are added.

The Villa Pizzeria plans to open in September at 1047 Villa Road in the Northland Plaza Shopping Center at Derr and Villa. The restaurant recently completed a mural that grabs attention of those driving in the area, and the owners have been working on the kitchen, promising the News-Sun an interview as opening day nears.

Our outside mural is finished!! We can’t thank Casey Harrod enough for such an amazing job!! Another step closer to opening! 🍕🍕

Posted by The Villa Pizzeria on Friday, August 25, 2023

Hafle Winery at 2369 Upper Valley Pike is open again after closing for a few years. The winery has been in a period of soft opening recently, training staff and organizing its new offerings, but said on Facebook it was open from Tuesday through Saturday evenings and featuring a German-themed menu. The owner has said he wants to share his story with the News-Sun once things are fully running.