Lansing isn't exactly short on places to grab a beer, but the REO Town Clubhouse feels different. It’s tucked into that gritty, revitalized stretch of South Washington Avenue where the industrial bones of the city are still very much on display. You walk in and it’s a vibe. Neon. Vintage arcade games. A bit of noise. But honestly, most people are there because the REO Town Clubhouse menu manages to do something that’s actually pretty hard to pull off: it serves "bar food" that doesn't feel like an afterthought.
It’s easy to throw a frozen patty on a grill and call it a day. Plenty of spots do. But the kitchen here seems to understand that if you’re going to sit under a neon sign for two hours, you want something that actually tastes like it was made by someone who likes food.
The Smashburger Obsession
If you look at the REO Town Clubhouse menu, the burgers are the undisputed heavyweight champions. We’re talking about smashburgers. If you aren't familiar, a smashburger isn't that thick, rounded hunk of meat that stays pink in the middle. It’s thin. It’s pressed hard against a screaming hot griddle until the edges get lacy and crispy. That’s the Maillard reaction doing its thing—basically turning beef into a savory, salty crust.
The "Clubhouse Burger" is the flagship. It’s usually a double. You’ve got American cheese, which is the only correct cheese for a smashburger because it melts into a literal sauce, and then they hit it with the "Clubhouse sauce." It’s tangy. It’s got that classic Thousand Island DNA but with a bit more kick.
What's cool is they don't overcomplicate it. You get pickles. You get onions. Maybe some shredded lettuce. It’s messy. You’ll definitely need more than one napkin, and your hands will probably smell like onions for the rest of the night, but it’s worth it. For those who don't do beef, they’ve been known to swap in black bean patties that actually hold their structural integrity, which is a rare find in the wild.
Beyond the Bun: The Sides and Snacks
Let’s talk about the fries. There is a specific kind of heartbreak that comes from ordering a great burger and getting limp, sad fries. Thankfully, that’s not the case here. The fries on the REO Town Clubhouse menu are usually served in those little red plastic baskets that scream "authentic dive bar." They’re salted properly.
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But the real sleeper hit? The fried sides.
Sometimes they have cheese curds. If you see them, get them. They aren't those weird, airy breaded puffs you find in the frozen aisle at the grocery store. They’re usually battered, squeaky, and served piping hot.
Then there are the wings. Bar wings are a gamble. Sometimes they’re soggy; sometimes they’re drier than a desert. The Clubhouse tends to lean toward a crispier skin. They don't drown them in sauce to the point where the chicken loses its identity. It’s a balance. You want that hit of Buffalo heat or maybe a garlic parm, but you still want to hear that crunch when you bite in.
The Social Dynamics of the Menu
Food at a place like this is social. It’s designed to be eaten while you’re mid-conversation or waiting for your turn on the NBA Jam cabinet. You’ll notice the menu reflects that. It’s heavy on things you can pick up with your hands.
It’s also surprisingly affordable. In an era where a "gourmet burger" can easily run you $22 in some parts of East Lansing or Downtown, the REO Town Clubhouse menu stays relatively grounded. It feels like a neighborhood spot because it is priced like one. You can grab a meal and a drink without feeling like you need to take out a small personal loan.
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Vegan and Vegetarian Reality Checks
A lot of bar menus treat vegetarians like an annoying neighbor who showed up uninvited to a BBQ. They offer a sad salad with browning iceberg lettuce and call it a day.
The Clubhouse is a bit more evolved. Because REO Town itself is a hub for artists and younger professionals, the menu has to cater to more than just the "meat and potatoes" crowd. While it’s definitely a burger-centric spot, the inclusion of things like heavy-duty veggie burgers and substantial appetizers means you aren't stuck eating a basket of plain fries while your friends feast.
One thing to watch out for, though: the menu rotates. It’s not static. They might have a specific sandwich one month that becomes a local legend, only for it to disappear and be replaced by something else. It keeps things fresh, but it can be a bummer if you have your heart set on a specific limited-time item.
The Beverage Pairing
You can't talk about the food without mentioning the drinks. This place is a "clubhouse" after all. They have a solid rotation of Michigan craft beers. Think Founders, Bell’s, and some of the smaller Lansing-area breweries like EagleMonk or Lansing Brewing Company.
If beer isn't your thing, their cocktail game is surprisingly tight for a place with arcade games. They do the classics well—Old Fashioneds, Mules—but they also lean into the nostalgic theme with drinks that might remind you of an adult version of a soda shop treat.
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What Most People Get Wrong
People often assume that because the REO Town Clubhouse looks like a bar/arcade hybrid, the food is just "fuel" to keep people playing games. That’s a mistake. The kitchen actually cares about the output.
Another misconception is that it's only a nighttime spot. While the neon really pops after dark, grabbing a burger from the REO Town Clubhouse menu during a Saturday afternoon is a top-tier move. It’s quieter, you can actually snag a table without a wait, and the kitchen isn't slammed, meaning your smashburger gets that extra bit of attention on the flat top.
Tips for Navigating the Menu Like a Local
- Check the specials board. Seriously. Some of the best things to ever come out of that kitchen aren't on the permanent printed menu. If there’s a seasonal burger, just order it.
- The "Clubhouse Sauce" is mandatory. Even if you’re just getting fries, ask for a side of the sauce. It’s the glue that holds the whole experience together.
- Parking is a thing. REO Town can be tight. Don't let the frustration of finding a spot on Washington Ave ruin your appetite. There are lots nearby; use them.
- Timing is everything. If you go on a Friday night at 8 PM, expect a wait. The kitchen is small, and they make things to order. If you’re starving and impatient, go during the "off" hours.
The REO Town Clubhouse manages to stay true to Lansing's industrial roots while offering a menu that actually feels modern and intentional. It’s salty, it’s greasy in the best way possible, and it’s exactly what you want when you’re hanging out in one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
- Order the Double: A single smashburger can get lost in the bun. The double provides the perfect meat-to-bread ratio.
- Embrace the Mess: This is not first-date food if you’re trying to look "polished." Wear something you don't mind getting a drop of burger juice on.
- Explore the Neighborhood: After you eat, walk down the block. REO Town has some of the best coffee and vintage shopping in Mid-Michigan, making it a full afternoon trip rather than just a quick bite.
- Keep an Eye on Socials: Since the menu can shift, the Clubhouse often posts their latest creations or tap takeovers on Instagram. It’s the best way to see if a specific seasonal item has returned before you make the drive.
The reality is that the REO Town Clubhouse isn't trying to be a five-star bistro. It’s a community hub that serves high-quality comfort food. Whether you’re there for the high scores on the pinball machines or just a solid meal, the menu consistently delivers on its promise of being reliable, flavorful, and distinctly Lansing.