Q&A interview with Steve and Casey Claypool, owners of Docs Just Off 66-
In December 2021, Steve and Casey Claypool took over the longtime Girard, Illinois staple formerly known as Docs Soda Fountain, giving it new life as Docs Just Off 66—located at 133 S 2nd St, Girard, IL 62640. After a full renovation, the doors reopened on June 18, 2022. The vintage soda fountain remains a central feature, and relics from the original pharmacy and drugstore remain thoughtfully displayed. The Claypools also expanded the space, introducing a full-service bar and gaming area—all while honoring the history and charm of this beloved stop along Illinois Route 66. Today, Docs Just Off 66 carries forward the legacy of Girard’s longest-running business with a fresh new twist. Now for their interview:
1- You bought this business on a whim during a Route 66 trip—how has the transition been since then? Did relocating play a big part in that change?
It’s hard to believe we just passed our 3-year anniversary! Every year has been better than the last, and we’ve really settled into the rhythm of running the business. Like any small-town spot, we’ve faced our fair share of ups and downs, but the support from the Girard community and folks from surrounding areas like Springfield and Carlinville has been incredible. Our biggest challenge right now is simply getting our name out there. We don’t have an advertising budget, so we rely heavily on word of mouth, and thankfully, that’s been working for us. We’re grateful for every customer who helps spread the word about Docs, every customer that does this helps up tremendously.
2-How have you balanced honoring Docs' rich tradition while adding your own modern spin to connect with today’s visitors?
Honoring Doc’s rich tradition has always been at the heart of what we do. We’ve kept the old-fashioned soda fountain feel alive, hand-made sodas and sundaes, classic favorites, and that welcoming small-town atmosphere people remember. At the same time, we’ve added our own modern spin with creative specials, fun events, and new menu items that keep things fresh and appeal to today’s visitors. It’s really about blending nostalgia with new experiences, so whether you’ve been coming to Doc’s for decades or you’re just discovering us on your Route 66 adventure, there’s something that makes you smile.
3-What are some of your signature menu items that people just have to try?
Docs is known for our Flights of Ice Cream, Boozy Root Beer Floats, and some of the best burgers you’ll find anywhere. We take pride in serving fresh food. Our food is never frozen and never deep fried. You won’t find fries on the menu, but you will find fresh, delicious salads, sandwiches, pasta, and steaks that keep our guests coming back for more.
4-Do you find most of your customers are locals or Route 66 travelers passing through? How does that mix shape the vibe here?
It’s really a good mix of both. We have a great base of locals and people from nearby communities who support us regularly, and then we also get Route 66 travelers and road trippers passing through. That mix definitely shapes the vibe here. You’ll see neighbors catching up at one table and folks from across the country sharing travel stories at the next. It gives Docs this fun, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels like they belong, whether they’re from five minutes away or five states away.
