In Downtown Waco, family-owned businesses are more than just shops—they’re the heartbeat of our community! Whether charming stores or beloved eateries, these family-run establishments offer diverse products and experiences that reflect the rich spirit of our town. Join us as we learn more from their inspiring stories, the impact of shopping small and the special bonds that tie these businesses to the Waco community.
Since opening its doors in 1946, Tony DeMaria’s Bar-B-Que has remained a cherished family-owned establishment in Downtown Waco. Originally launched as a grocery store and meat market by Tony DeMaria Jr., the restaurant quickly became a local favorite when Tony began serving barbecue to road crews constructing Interstate Highway 35. After marrying Lillie Cassiola, the couple worked together to grow the business, raising their four children—Gary, Greg, Gina and Geoff—who all played a role in its operations. In 2021, Geoff passed the torch to Blake DeMaria, who continues to uphold the family tradition while modernizing the restaurant.
“My journey with the restaurant has been as long as I can remember,” Blake reflected. “When it’s something you grow up with, it inherently changes the way you run and treat the business.” Under his leadership, Tony DeMaria’s Bar-B-Que has expanded its space and menu, embracing the community spirit of Elm Avenue. Blake emphasized the importance of local collaboration: “Keeping business and community local is really important to the heart of any town’s scene. I especially love how Elm Ave. has developed over the last couple of years.” Attributing this development to a joint effort, he said, “We have a great relationship with Daniel from Revival, the guys down at Brotherwell and all the staff next door at Rapoport Academy. As small businesses, it sort of feels like we’re able to work together to bring back the Elm District.”
With a commitment to quality and a deep-rooted connection to Waco, Tony DeMaria’s Bar-B-Que continues to be a beloved destination for great barbecue and family values.
Reed’s Flowers, a Downtown Waco institution since 1930, has been proudly family-owned and operated for nearly a century. Under the care of Debbie Reed, the shop continues its legacy of offering fine floral arrangements and gifts backed by friendly and prompt service. Reflecting on the shop’s history, Debbie shared, “My grandparents opened it in 1930, and then my grandma ran it for the longest. When Daddy got back from the war, he took over, and he worked here until he was 93. He worked here every day and never missed a day.”
Now approaching 100 years of business, Debbie appreciates the shop’s enduring success, saying, “Every day is a new day here. There are no two days the same, so that’s what I like about it.” She added, “We’re just thankful to still be around, really. We’re thankful for Waco for keeping us here.” For Debbie and her team, each day brings fresh opportunities to share joy through flowers, continuing a legacy of care and connection.
Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shoppe has been a beloved fixture in Waco since 1975, starting on the Baylor campus and quickly expanding to Downtown Waco and Valley Mills Drive. Since 1978, Nelson Rue has been at the helm of Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shoppe, dedicated to the everyday rhythms of running a beloved Downtown Waco establishment. “I’ve been involved on a daily basis since then,” he said, interacting with loyal customers who have been regulars for decades. Nelson is involved in every part of the business, from ordering supplies and prepping for the day to crafting sandwiches. He emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses, ensuring that his shop sources supplies from fellow Wacoans. For many, returning to Schmaltz’s is a cherished Waco tradition; as Nelson noted, “Only in Waco can you have a Schmaltz!”
For nearly 45 years, Clay Pot has been a treasured part of Downtown Waco’s community. “Clay Pot is more than a business for me; it’s an investment in my family and homage to the elder generation who built us this gift,” Thanh Le shared. The restaurant has seen Waco grow, welcoming back couples who had their first date there and now bring their children. “We are part of a village, and that’s what a family-owned business is truly like. Our family becomes your family,” said Thanh. Through good times and hard times alike, the Le family behind Clay Pot comes together to celebrate the community and keep their legacy alive. Shopping small, to them, means supporting families and uplifting the local economy. Adding to this, Thanh said, “When you shop small, you’re helping a family live and a local economy thrive.”
Be sure to explore other family-owned businesses in the area, including Alpha & Omega, Twisted Sisters Shoetique, Patrick’s Dry Cleaners and Falcon & Owl, each contributing their unique charm and community spirit to Downtown Waco!
As we celebrate the family-owned businesses of Downtown Waco, we see how deeply these shops and restaurants are woven into the fabric of our community. They bring character, history and charm to our town. Supporting them not only strengthens our local economy but also keeps alive the traditions, memories and passion that these families pour into their work every day. This holiday season, let’s continue to honor and cherish the hard work of our small business owners by shopping small, supporting local and sharing in the legacy of Downtown Waco’s treasured family-run establishments.
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