2803 E. Kalamazoo Lansing, MI ~ Open 11am to 11pm every day
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2803 E. Kalamazoo Lansing, MI ~ Open 11am to 11pm every day
Around 1937, on the eastern edge of Lansing – just steps away from the dry campus of Michigan State University – a bar opened on this location at the corner of Kalamazoo and Howard streets. By 1946 it was a local bar called Nim’s, and Derwood Root, an Oldsmobile Payroll Supervisor, was tending bar there. By February of 1947, Root had purchased Nim’s and renamed his tavern “Dagwood’s.”
Rescuers look for people in need of help after the great flood of 1975.
Ads in the Lansing State Journal from 1947 invite patrons to “Come out and meet Dagwood The Friendly Barkeep.” According to legend, Root thought that “Dagwood’s” would be more memorable than “Derwood’s,” possibly because of the connection to the bumbling, sandwich-loving husband from the comic strip “Blondie” which was popular at the time.
The building itself dates back to 1901, and has a very singular architectural style. If you look around at the walls, you will notice that the interior is inside out! The walls are lap siding, the faux bay windows extend inward, and the doorways have Georgian cornices.
Spartans, Tigers, Lions, Red Wings… all kinds of sports fans love Dagwood’s for game day.
Dagwood’s has always been a great place to get a bite to eat and a cold drink, and it would become a favorite watering hole for politicians, auto workers, athletes, locals, VIP’s, students and sports fans. Up until 1968, East Lansing was one of the few “dry” cities in the area. Being so close to the city limit, Dagwood’s was especially popular with patrons from East Lansing.
Back in the day, you might run into Jack Breslin, George Perles, Jud Heathcote, or hundreds of other legendary Spartans. Dagwood’s was often a meeting place for MSU coaches to enjoy some cold beers and some sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere. Former MSU football, basketball, and other legendary athletes and administrators may come walking through the door at any time.
Today, Dagwood’s is famous for their unforgettable made-to-order hamburgers and hand-cut fries, all prepared right in front of you, the same way they have been since 1947.
Derwood Root sold Dagwood’s in 1987 at the age of 72, but the name and the bar’s status as a Lansing landmark live on. The current owner, Randy Farlin, took the tavern over after managing the bar for more than 20 years. We hope you enjoy your visit, and invite you become a part of the legacy by taking a selfie and tagging us on your socials.
