Help Lansing’s REO Town keep its doors open
A New Era for the Old Ellison Brewing Co.
In early 2025, REO Town Clubhouse breathed new life into the historic Ellison Brewing Co. space, transforming it into a vibrant hub for Italian cuisine, artisanal pizzas, and craft cocktails. The restaurant quickly became a neighborhood favorite—until the harsh realities of modern economics threatened its future.
The Brutal Math of Small Business Survival
Like countless independent eateries, REO Town Clubhouse now faces an uphill battle:
- Skyrocketing ingredient costs
- Rent hikes that strain budgets
- Fewer diners post-pandemic
A recent social media plea from the team didn’t mince words: They need help now—or they might not last.
More Than Just a Restaurant
This isn’t just about pizza and pasta. It’s about: ✔ Preserving local jobs ✔ Supporting nearby farms and suppliers ✔ Keeping REO Town’s unique character alive
Every meal purchased, review shared, and event booked directly fuels their survival. The owners aren’t begging for handouts—they’re asking for a simple choice: Choose local over chains. Choose community over convenience.
Why Chains Thrive While Independents Struggle
Big corporations cut deals, slash costs, and sometimes even get rent relief. Small businesses? They pay full price for supplies, fair wages to staff, and market-rate rent. When inflation hits and foot traffic drops, the math becomes unforgiving.
A City Loses Its Flavor One Closure at a Time
REO Town Clubhouse isn’t just another dining spot—it’s part of what makes the neighborhood special. With Coral Gables and Smokey Bones already gone, another shuttered business means fewer choices, less character, and a quieter Main Street.
What Happens Next? It’s Up to You.
Will REO Town Clubhouse become another forgotten name in the city’s culinary history? Or will the community step up—one reservation, one recommendation, one visit at a time?
Your choice could make all the difference.
--- For updates or to support their efforts, check their social channels.
