Long-Vacant 517 BBQ Building is Getting New Life

Lansing has had an exceptional year when it comes to new businesses—particularly eateries. Looks like we have another such business to add to the list: a coffee shop.

Lansing Restaurants

Those familiar with 517 BBQ know it first opened in August 2019 at the northwest corner of Cedar and Oakland in Lansing.

Unfortunately, it closed sometime in 2022 and has sat empty since then.

Now, the former drive-thru BBQ place will be a new Biggby location.

New Biggby Coffee Opening in Lansing

While the remodeled building and Biggby signage make the forthcoming coffee shop a sure thing, there was actually 'word on the street' long before November 2025.

One of the most bountiful Facebook groups in Lansing when it comes to food news is the Lansing Foodies Facebook group. A post there in July 2024 kicked off the Biggby announcement.

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All it took was someone asking, "Anyone know what’s happening at the former 517 BBQ?". A Kel M. mentioned that when they attempted to purchase the building, their realtor said it wasn't possible "because it was already sold". It was in the same comment section that Kel made the comment about Biggby opening there.

Restaurants Opening in Lansing

At this time, there's no word on when the new Biggby location plans to open. When it does, it will join the long list of recent openings in the area.

So far, 2025 has seen over three dozen restaurants, cafes, and fast-casual eateries open. Plus, there are still more on the way. It seems Lansing's food scene is delicious and bright.