
Cook the bacon in a 4.5-quart soup pot slowly over low heat. Set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Reserve bacon drippings.
Wipe dark spots from the pot, add bacon drippings and butter, and sauté onions and celery for 5-6 minutes.
Add garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1 minute.
Add flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
Stir in chicken broth and Half and Half gradually, cleaning the pan.
Add chicken bouillon, bay leaf, clam juices, and 8 oz. clam juice. Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer for 20 minutes.
Add diced potatoes and cook for 20-25 minutes until fork tender.
Stir in clams and heat through for 5 minutes. Remove bay leaf and serve.