The cheesesteak hoagie makes Nite Lite a downtown Jackson destination

JACKSON, MI – Nite Lite has been through many changes over the years, but one thing that's stayed the same is customers' love for its cheesesteak hoagies.

Joe Brandeberry has owned the downtown Jackson bar since 2018, but the eatery has been around for a lot longer than that. Since day one, the cheesesteak hoagie has been its No. 1 seller, Brandeberry said.

The hoagie is made with ribeye, sauteed mushrooms, onions and American cheese. It's served with a side of fries as well, he said.

"That's what Nite Lite's always been known for," Brandeberry said. "It's such a good tasting meal, and it's a great portion."

The restaurant also offers a variety of sandwiches, grinders, flatbreads, burgers and salads. Customers commonly gravitate toward the Santa Fe Salad, which is mixed greens, shredded pepper jack and cheddar cheeses, black bean corn salsa, avocado, tortilla strips and chipotle ranch.

Aside from the food, Nite Lite offers a full bar with around nine beers on tap. People often order Moscow mules, along with items found on rotating seasonal menus, he said.

Nite Lite also offers special events throughout the week, including trivia and karaoke. Plenty of televisions can also be spotted around the bar where people can catch games.

The restaurant caters for family events, weddings and graduations. A mural of musician Benny Poole can also be found on an exterior wall of the building, he said.

Read more: ' His whole life was music,' family says after Jackson jazz legend Benny Poole's death

Brandeberry strives to create a space where people can grab a meal, while having a good time, he said.

"I think that downtown has become a nice destination place for shopping, entertainment and great food," Brandeberry said. "We just want to continue that atmosphere. A nice, safe place to get out with your family and enjoy a great meal together."

Nite Lite, 145 W. Pearl St., is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to midnight Friday and Saturday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page.

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