Rob M.

Every once in a while I get surprised...it doesn't happen often but when it does I love it! SaltRock surprised me and knocked my socks off. An old Lansing building that used to be a flower shop. They now specialize in the most delicious steaks and burgers in Lansing. Full bar, cozy and clean. Knowledgeable waitress and a very cool vibe. I may have a new Lansing favorite!

Bryan B.

Downtown Lansing is a proving ground for many businesses and restaurants, and as several organizational mainstays like the state government and the insurance industry continue to find their way back after the pandemic, the need for more places to dine and gather grows. Through the fall, foot traffic around Washington Square seemed to be increasing by the week, and the Michigan Avenue corridor reinvents itself nearly every quarter with new ventures that put a fresh spin on old spaces. The areas adjacent to Jackson Field, home of the Lugnuts, have become a jewel in the community with their modern housing options and dining and drinking venues. One could argue that the big comeback folks have been awaiting for generations has begun in earnest. What's less obvious to an untrained eye -- but equally as exciting -- are the smaller developments on streets just off the beaten path. The Allen Neighborhood Center, with its farmers market and incubator kitchen, is one shining example of the impact that investments in spatial rehabilitation can have on a localized community. Such is the hope for the new businesses on West Ionia Street that occupy the historic Bailey Buildings. Hair United, an inclusive salon, occupies one of the buildings, and this month's focus, SaltRock Brewing Co., inhabits the other. SaltRock opened in July and was immediately welcomed as a change of pace, with a menu that's more reminiscent of a chophouse than a brewpub. A short walk from the Capitol, it offers a vibe similar to the eateries of Tribeca in New York City, Hyde Park in Chicago or Wallingford in Seattle -- industrial-chic décor, flavors that push the envelope and a beer, wine and spirits selection worthy of brunch or happy hour for statesmen and stateswomen. It also has one of the happiest staffs I've seen of late. Competent and attentive, they seemed to enjoy the company of one another and that of their guests. So, what about the food? What's rocky Lobster mac and cheese ($10) appears on many steakhouse menus, and SaltRock has followed suit. The mac was creamy on the bottom and crispy on top, and black pepper dominated the flavor profile. By itself, it wasn't so bad, but the previously frozen lobster meat was more reminiscent of hours-old bubble gum in texture and not far off in flavor. I'd order the cheaper, plainer version next time. Also lacking in flavor and visually displeasing enough that I was surprised it made it to my table was the beer cheese that accompanied the loaded fries ($7). This sauce had been simmering beyond recognition, and any semblance of taste had long since disappeared. What's really good The smoked deviled eggs ($11) were much closer to my expectations for the ambitious menu. The filling was creamy with a hint of tartness, and the bacon and green onion offered textural contrast. Each egg was dusted with a barbecue dry rub that offered a perfect amount of smokiness. Diners will find it tough to share the plate of five. The cherry and blue cheese salad ($20 with salmon addition) was also very good. The complementary flavors of tart dried cherries and creamy blue cheese worked even better with the refreshing raspberry vinaigrette. The salmon was cooked quite nicely and was seasoned well, but it didn't overpower the rest of the salad. The kaffir lime crème brûlée ($9) was delectable and sweet without blowing out my tastebuds with sugar -- just rich enough to reappear in my daydream over my morning coffee. Best bite This category was a true toss-up this month. On my first visit, the 8-ounce USDA choice filet ($47) was divine. Perfectly medium rare, with a crust that would make any summer grill master jealous, the steak was clearly well rested before it was served because not a drop of red appeared on the wood plating board when I cut into it. Tender and flavorful with minimal fat to carve away, it was obvious SaltRock does steak right. I was sure the steak was going to be the runaway favorite this month until I ordered the walleye sandwich ($18). Battered with a cornmeal crust, the large slab of fish poked out from every side of the brioche bun. Topped with house tartar sauce and crunchy house slaw, this handheld should be a shining star in the Lansing food scene for years to come.

Kyli H.

If you're looking for a chill spot to grab a bite in Lansing, I can't recommend SaltRock Brewing Company enough! The place is nicely divided into two dining rooms, which are just the right size--not too big, so it doesn't feel crowded, and not too small, giving you that cozy, intimate vibe. Perfect for enjoying a meal or catching a game without the noise getting overwhelming. The ambiance is really nice with cute decor, a minimalist touch, and a few plants that add a lovely freshness to the space. Plus, the location is super convenient, and I had no trouble finding parking--always a win in my book! The staff were amazing--so friendly and attentive, always checking in and refilling our drinks from their great selection. We kicked things off with a couple of appetizers, and I highly recommend the pulled pork nachos and the Brussels sprouts--both were delicious! For our main dishes, we tried the salmon and a spicy chicken sandwich with lobster mac n cheese. I have to say, the salmon was the best I've ever had! The only thing I'd suggest for the menu is adding a couple more gluten-free options, especially gluten-free buns & pasta. We were so full by the end of our meal that we didn't get a chance to try the dessert, but it looked and sounded absolutely delicious! Overall, SaltRock Brewing Company is a gem, and I can't wait to go back! Highly recommend it for a relaxed meal. You won't be disappointed!

Matthew W.

Very pleasant experience. Great burger. Very, very good mac and cheese. Shrimp skewer was lightly seasoned and perfectly grilled. I recommend this as a nice place for a date.

Michelle F.

We tried this place after MSU graduation. When we pulled up I was a little nervous. It doesn't look like much from the outside. We easily parked right out front. We had a reservation for 9 people and it was super comfortable seating at a nice table so we could all talk. Loved that! Our server Tiffany was the bomb! We all loved her. I had the wine and it was so good I had 2 glasses. We all loved our drinks. We didn't try the beer. My husband had a cranberry and vodka and enjoyed it. The appetizers we had were chicken wings and the smoked deviled eggs. Both were delicious. I had the carbonara and would not order it again. It just wasn't my thing. Someone had the steak and said it was good. Actually everyone else liked the food. A breadstick would have been nice to serve with the carbonara. One thing I didn't love was that the carbonara came out much later than everyone else's food. About 15 minutes later. Also some at the table said their food was not very hot when it came out. It was warm but not hot. Also the restaurant was cold inside when we sat down. I asked Tiffany for a space heater and she turned up the heat so then it was fine. Overall I am on the fence about this place. There was good and bad. That's why it gets 3 stars.

Absolutely love this place! The staff was amazing, the food delicious and atmosphere was great! highly recommend!