Lansing Restaurants Sound Alarm as Challenges Mount

Lansing has an incredible food scene—it's undeniable. But what's also undeniable is that it's a hard time for local restaurants right now.

If you're part of any of the local Lansing Facebook groups about food, you'll notice that some restaurants have reached out for help recently.

A few weeks ago, Bell's Greek Pizza in East Lansing put out the proverbial "Bat-Signal" on Facebook. The post reminded patrons that they are still open despite the construction going on in East Lansing.

East Lansing Construction Is Creating Challenges for Businesses

Currently, Grand River Avenue between Bogue Street and Brookfield Plaza is completely closed in both directions. And it's going to remain closed all summer long while work is being done to upgrade and separate the stormwater and sanitary wastewater systems.

While there are detours in place, patrons have to navigate driving through the various neighborhoods in East Lansing to get there. Not to mention—Bell's Greek Pizza isn't the only business on that stretch. Places like Tasty Twist, Bowl & Above, YumYum Bento, Conrad's Grill, Mitten Raised, The Morning Post, and others are likely being negatively affected by the construction.

Construction isn't the only thing that is hurting restaurants. Some are just having a rough go at the moment and are asking for help.

Another restaurant to reach out for help via Facebook is REO Town Clubhouse.

REO Town Clubhouse Opens Up About Financial Challenges

On June 17, REO Town Clubhouse posted to Facebook, reaching out to locals and patrons to say this:

Over the past several months, we've watched several local Lansing restaurants close their doors. These aren't just businesses—they're dreams, jobs, gathering places, and part of what makes our community special.
The reality is that independent restaurants are facing challenges unlike anything we've seen before. Rising food costs, operating expenses, labor costs, and changing consumer habits have made it increasingly difficult for local establishments to survive.
We want to be honest with you: REO Town Clubhouse is facing some of those challenges.

The post goes on to say that if you've been meaning to stop by, the time to do it is now.

How Lansing Residents Can Support Local Businesses

It's clear that our local places need our help. If you have the means, financially and otherwise, to pay our local Lansing establishments a visit, now is the time to do so.

13 Lansing Restaurants That Locals Miss

Change is the one constant throughout life. So of course, Lansing has seen its fair share of restaurants close. However, there are some restaurants that some locals miss dearly. These are 13 restaurants that have closed through the years that Lansing locals miss.

Gallery Credit: Kristen Matthews

A Look Back at the Lansing Restaurants That We Lost in 2021

Lansing is home to tons of great food, but like the sign of the times, we did lose a few restaurants in the year that was 2021. Take a look down memory lane with us as we explore some now closed restaurants in Lansing.