Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Lansing, MI

North America

United States

# Rick's American Cafe – Vibrant college bar in East Lansing, MI
Rick's American Cafe, located in East Lansing, MI, is a lively restaurant and bar that serves as a popular gathering spot for Michigan State University students and locals alike. Known for its energetic atmosphere, Rick's offers a mix of dining, dancing, and live music, making it a quintessential college hangout. Established with the vision of creating a welcoming environment for students, it has become a staple in the community, often highlighted in reviews for its friendly staff and vibrant nightlife. However, it also faces criticism regarding service and cleanliness, reflecting the diverse experiences of its patrons.

## History
### The story of Rick's American Cafe
Rick's American Cafe was founded with the intention of providing a fun and engaging space for college students to unwind and socialize. The establishment has evolved over the years, maintaining its core mission of fostering a community atmosphere while adapting to the changing preferences of its clientele.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a college bar in the late 1980s
- Gained popularity among Michigan State University students
- Expanded offerings to include live music and themed events
- Became known for its vibrant nightlife and energetic atmosphere

### Cultural and local influence
Rick's has played a significant role in the cultural landscape of East Lansing, serving as a venue for local bands and events that resonate with the college crowd. Its influence extends beyond just being a bar; it has become a rite of passage for students, creating lasting memories and connections.

### Continuing the tradition
Despite facing challenges, Rick's continues to uphold its tradition of being a lively gathering place. The bar regularly hosts events that cater to the student body, ensuring it remains relevant and appealing to new generations of patrons.

## Community
### Community involvement
Rick's American Cafe actively engages with the local community, often participating in and sponsoring events that benefit Michigan State University and surrounding neighborhoods. This involvement helps to strengthen ties with the community and fosters a sense of belonging among patrons.

### Community notion about the place
The community's perception of Rick's is mixed, with many viewing it as a nostalgic venue that encapsulates the college experience. However, some locals express concerns about the bar's cleanliness and safety, indicating a need for improvements in certain areas.

### Events and gatherings
Rick's frequently hosts events, including themed parties and live music nights, which attract a diverse crowd. These gatherings not only enhance the bar's reputation as a nightlife hotspot but also contribute to the local culture by providing a platform for emerging artists and entertainers.

## Offerings
### What Rick's American Cafe offers
Rick's American Cafe boasts a variety of offerings that cater to its clientele, including a diverse menu of food and drinks, live entertainment, and a vibrant nightlife experience. The establishment's focus on creating a welcoming environment is evident in its service and atmosphere.

### Dining and food experience
The food experience at Rick's includes a selection of bar favorites, with an emphasis on quick bites that complement its lively drinking scene. While the menu may not be extensive, it provides enough variety to satisfy patrons looking for a casual meal before or after a night out.

### Events and packages
Rick's regularly features special events and packages, including drink specials and themed nights that appeal to the student demographic. These events often draw large crowds, contributing to the bar's energetic atmosphere and community engagement.

### Facilities and features
- Two distinct areas: one for dancing and one for socializing
- Live music and DJ performances
- Outdoor seating during warmer months
- Pool tables and games available

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Rick's American Cafe reveal a spectrum of experiences, highlighting both the energetic atmosphere that attracts many and the concerns raised by others regarding service and cleanliness. Patrons appreciate the lively environment but express dissatisfaction with certain aspects of their visits.

### Compliments and strengths
Many reviews praise Rick's for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and the sense of community it fosters. The bar's ability to create memorable experiences for college students is frequently highlighted, making it a beloved spot for many.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Conversely, some reviews point out issues such as high drink prices, cleanliness concerns, and service shortcomings. These contrasting experiences suggest that while Rick's has a loyal following, there are areas that require attention to enhance overall customer satisfaction.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Rick's American Cafe stands out as a quintessential college bar in East Lansing, offering a unique blend of dining, dancing, and socializing. While it excels in creating a fun atmosphere, addressing the concerns raised by patrons could further solidify its reputation.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Rick's American Cafe is situated at 224 Abbot Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823, making it easily accessible for both students and locals. The bar is nestled in a vibrant neighborhood that is home to various other dining and entertainment options, contributing to its appeal as a nightlife destination. The surrounding area is rich in cultural significance, with Michigan State University just a stone's throw away, enhancing the bar's connection to the student community.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Rick's American Cafe offer** It offers a variety of bar food and quick bites.
**Is there live music at Rick's** Yes, Rick's hosts live music and DJ performances regularly.
**What are the hours of operation** Rick's typically operates late into the night, catering to the nightlife crowd.
**Is there an age restriction at Rick's** Yes, patrons must be of legal drinking age to enter.
**Can I reserve a table for events** Reservations may be available for special events; it's best to check in advance.

## Visit Rick's American Cafe Today
Rick's American Cafe invites you to experience its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and community-friendly environment. With a mix of dining options, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife scene, it remains a popular choice for students and locals alike. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or enjoy a casual meal, Rick's is the place to be in East Lansing.

ccd01e16-c248-4230-9e7c-882f38865d1c

Came here with my husband after our extravagant dinner at Beggar's Banquet, was informed by the GM Steve Hermanson that both Beggar's and Rick's are owned by the same people! No wonder this place had such a great environment to it. Staff was friendly and alert, service was exceptional, and after a few (too many) drinks, my husband and I wrapped things up and were helped out the door (hehe we were a bit tipsy) Door staff even offered to buy us an Uber because my silly husband couldn't figure out the app! Very welcoming place and we can't wait to go back again soon!

a1823c5a-d52f-44b1-b27d-daaa6e029e76

If I'm going to be honest, this place is going down hill. I ordered 2 high noons, handed the bartender a 20, and received 35 cents back. Is that a joke? I can go 1 block away and get a 12 pack for 20 bucks anywhere. What a sick joke from a once great college bar. I would seriously reevaluate the menu here, a long with fixing the atmosphere and cutting out underclassmen. Fix the bar.

90162c0f-85e7-4a23-a5bc-2b5ac250bd72

DO NOT USE THE ATM!!! I needed to withdraw $20 from the ATM last night to pay the $5 cover. The first time I tried it, nothing was dispensed and my receipt said that $20 was withdrawn but $0 was dispensed. I tried again and again, no cash was dispensed, however, when I checked my receipt this time, it said that $20 was dispensed from the machine. I checked my bank account and $20 + the $3 "tax" was taken out of my account. I put the receipt in my pocket and asked the manager about getting a refund. Conveniently, the last 4 digits of the card on my receipt somehow didn't match mine so he said he couldn't help me. Found out that the same thing had happened to my friend last week but they took $40 from her! This "broken" ATM is a total scam so DO NOT USE IT and honestly, don't go to Rick's ever it's not fun at all, drinks are wayyyy too expensive, and the manager is a d*ck.

c26c9409-eb75-4926-b214-a685ac57e917

BEST bar ever. I have never felt more at home than I have at this establishment. They truly do it better in the basement.

6be23dca-06bf-4289-96d2-7b6a04274c0a

I normally like this place enough, but last night i was being stalked by a man who was waiting at the bar for me to leave. I told the bouncers and begged them for help and they did nothing. Very disappointed and concerned for other woman that this may happen to. So just want to leave a warning to women that this bar clearly does not have the best interest of women's safety in mind.

ed8b15ea-c004-43e9-81ca-1ae5fc51f78b

Full of energy, if you want to dance and meet people.. THIS IS THE PLACE!!!! Awesome bartenders who are happy and excited to be there. Everyone is dancing, so much fun

189cfcfd-c8f1-44e2-9bb8-f0d432dcc988

Drinks here are cheap and the lines are always nuts. The DJ on the one side of the bar usually places Top 40 music it's always blown out and loud. This is where college memories are made and forgotten the next day. This dark basement they call a bar is dirty and downright loud. Nonetheless, this is where college kids come to congregate, meet and maybe end up in places they don't expect. It definately is a filthy place. The bathroom is disgusting and the pizza is only tasty when drunk. It can sometimes be compared to reheated cardboard with cheese on top. Whatever, it's free. The only reason why i rate it so well is because of the memories that i've had here. The ambiance and the crowd is what makes this place so amazing. This is by far the best place to experience a college crowd and atmosphere. Don't expect clean floors. Party on!

1e09a9e9-ecd6-4f22-a785-55cc01a6f529

Rick's, The Riv, The Planet & Bilbos (with the semi frequent Lansing/AA/Kzoo/Detroit/Chicago shows mixed in) was the epicenter of my late 80s to mid 90s youth! But Ricks in particular holds the crown of the place where I've seen the most/some of the best shows in my life. Hannibals, Bop (H), Verve P...Water for the, TMIW, Pato Banton, and many, many other bands. Plus, CMON, the freaking dark ass basement, the long line down the long stairs, pics of previous bands, pitchers of Old Style (so called) Black n Tans, the troughs, puke & incredible graffiti in the mens head...ABSOLUTELY one of the classics!

27482376-f057-4671-98e6-f4d6d6db8814

Rick's is a dump. It has the reputation of being the place where people finish their night, after they're already hammered. There's two sides at the place. One has a DJ and dancing, the other has tables, tvs, etc. Both sides are a mess at night, You have to go at least once while a student at MSU. Some people love it; I'm not one of them.

77c8fea0-cb2b-4892-b751-01acd9130d04

We asked the DJ to play 70s music because we are here for a 70's themed fundraiser and the DJ said "fuck you" and when we got the manager involved he said "I can't do anything about it"

Discover Rick's American Cafe in East Lansing for classic American cuisine in a cozy setting. Perfect for a delicious meal—visit us today and enjoy great flavors.

Rick's American Cafe in East Lansing - Top Local Dining

East Lansing

Rick's American Cafe

Enjoy authentic American classics at Rick's American Cafe in Lansing, MI. Perfect for family dinners and casual outings. Visit us today!

Rick's American Cafe in Lansing, MI - Classic American Diner Experience

Learn about Rick's American Cafe in Lansing, MI. A beloved local spot serving delicious American cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. Discover more!

About Rick's American Cafe, Lansing, MI - Your Local Diner

Opening hours for Rick's American Cafe, Lansing, MI. Find opening hours for Rick's American Cafe, Lansing, MI on 224 Abbot Rd.

Rick's American Cafe Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Rick's American Cafe

Beggar's Banquet

Kimchi Box

Cottage Inn Pizza