Clay Seafood opens new restaurant in Selma

Clay Seafood officially opened its doors in a spot on Citizens Parkway on Monday, March 2, with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Owner Clarence Clay, a Montgomery native with more than three decades in the food industry, said at the event hosted by the Selma Dallas County Chamber of Commerce that bringing his seafood brand to Selma has been a meaningful experience. The restaurant is open at 3037 Citizens Parkway next to the Marathon.

“Man, we are ecstatic about bringing Clay Seafood to Selma,” he said. “It’s just a blessing because it’s an opportunity to come in and bring something into a community that really just embraces you.”

Clay has operated Clay Southern Fried, Clay Seafood and managed food and beverage operations in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and New York. Despite his broad reach, he said Selma’s reception has been uniquely special. “This has been dear to my heart because of the warmth that you get, people just appreciate what you do,” he said.

Clay was joined by business partners Jeffrey Thomas and others who proudly noted their Selma roots. The ribbon was cut by Clay’s nephew and partner Jamal Jones, who helped originate the brand’s other locations before relocating from New York to support the Selma expansion.

The opening of Clay Seafood adds a new dining option to the city while also reflecting a broader spirit of local investment and hospitality. Clay said he hopes the restaurant will not only serve good food but also inspire others who dream of building something meaningful in their hometown.