End of an Era - Dimitri's in Downtown Lansing Closes Its Doors after 36 Years

An icon of downtown Lansing for over 30 years is disappearing.

No, not Crazy Pete down at the bar, I'm talking about Dimitri's. This place was one of my favorite stops for breakfast and lunch downtown. Dimitri's closed for good on Tuesday, June 15th.

This place had character to spare. I loved the hand painted menu on the wall, the bright orange trays, the old style lunch counter. Every bit of it had personality.

Dimitri himself was a great part of the experience too. He wasn't afraid to chat with customers. I remember one time, a couple years ago, I stopped in for breakfast and I only ordered eggs and hash browns.

"What, you don't want meat?" Dimitri said, every syllable dripping with his accent. "You can't get big if you don't eat meat."

And that is one of only a few anecdotes that myself and others could tell. This is part of the charm of a local business. It is something I love, and look for.

The coney dogs and fries were good (and cheap), and service was fast.

While waiting for my last coney dog ever (the day before they closed), I over heard Dimitri's son saying he will try to open a new restaurant on the West side in Delta Township.

I hope so. I love me some coney dogs, they are a very guilty pleasure.