Today we’d like to introduce you to Steve Lonzo.
Hi Steve, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The building at 600 S. Pennsylvania has a long history as a neighborhood gathering place in Lansing.
Longtime residents remember it as DeMarco’s, which operated at the location for decades. Local accounts trace DeMarco’s back as far as the early 1930s, when it functioned as a grocery store and bar, and it continued as a restaurant and neighborhood staple through the late 1980s and 1990s. For generations, it was a familiar place where people met, shared meals, and built relationships. I was told by one of the family members that Al Capone himself was a guest in this structure.
In 2002, the space became Leo’s Outpost, which served the Lansing community for nearly 20 years before closing in September 2021. Leo’s Outpost continued the tradition of the building as a place for connection and conversation, and its closure left a well-known corner of the city quiet for a period of time.
When we acquired the property, our intention was not to erase its past but to build on it. We were very intentional about preserving the character and structural integrity of the building while giving it a fresh, elevated touch so it could once again serve the community.
That vision became The Comfort Zone.
The Comfort Zone is a thoughtfully curated lounge and gathering space designed to feel familiar, welcoming, and intentional. It’s an elevated but approachable environment that continues the building’s long legacy as a place where people come together. Our focus was on creating a space that honors Lansing’s history while offering a modern experience rooted in conversation, culture, and community.
For us, revitalization isn’t about replacing what was there — it’s about restoring purpose to spaces that already matter. The Comfort Zone reflects our broader commitment to investing in Lansing, supporting small business, and highlighting the unique places that give the city its character. It’s a continuation of nearly a century of gathering at this address, reimagined for today.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would not consider my experiences thus far in this journey as challenges, but learning experiences; different or better ways of doing things.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about The Comfort Zone Cigar Lounge and Bistro?
Your premiere Cigar Lounge nestled in the Capital City, providing ambiance, cigars, drinks, food and service!
Who else deserves credit in your story?
SBDC, LEDC, Studio Intrigue, Julian Darden, Tony Henry of Top Notch Carpentry and Construction ,and many members of the community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Theczlounge.com
- Instagram: #theczlounge
