A Battle Creek Icon Reimagined: Nostalgia Meets Fresh Vibes at Speed’s

Review: Speed’s Koffee Shop

Location: 1525 West Michigan Ave, Battle Creek (Urbandale)

 

A Battle Creek Legend in a New Lane

Speed’s Koffee Shop has been a cornerstone of the Urbandale community for decades.

 

Originally founded by Richard "Speed" Eddinger, the shop earned its reputation as the go-to "greasy spoon" for locals.

 

While it recently moved down the road from its long-time home at 1425 West Michigan to a fresh space at 1525 West Michigan, the soul of the diner remains firmly intact.

 

The Atmosphere: New Space, Old Soul

 

The new restaurant is bright, fresh, and roomy, offering a modern comfort that the old spot lacked.

 

However, they haven’t forgotten their roots.

 

You’ll find classic memorabilia from the previous locations throughout the dining room, providing a warm nod to the nostalgia of the original Speed’s.

 

Most notably, the original sign is proudly displayed on the wall, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

 

The Service

 

Our server, Bobby Jo, perfectly embodied the friendly, small-town spirit Speed’s is known for.

 

She was incredibly attentive and made sure we never wanted for anything.

 

While she checked in frequently, her genuine friendliness added a welcoming layer to the meal.

 

The Food & Value

 

One of the most impressive things about Speed’s is the sheer variety. Whether you want breakfast at noon or a full steak dinner, the menu covers it all at very reasonable prices.

 

• Appetizers: We started with the onion rings ($5.99), which were a standout, perfectly fried and a great way to kick off the meal.

• The Classics: I opted for the bacon cheeseburger ($7.25). Well-prepared and juicy, it’s a bargain for the quality you get.

• The Wrap: My wife ordered the chicken ranch wrap with grilled chicken ($10.25). She noted it was delicious and particularly enjoyed the crispiness of the toasted tortilla.

• Massive Variety: Their "Breakfast Served All Day" section is huge, ranging from a "Quick Start" for $5.99 to a 6oz Steak and Eggs for $13.99. They also offer a full dinner menu featuring items like Country Fried Steak ($11.99) and Jumbo Shrimp ($13.99).

 

The Verdict

 

Whether you’ve been going to Speed’s since the Eddinger days or you’re checking out the new location for the first time, it remains a reliable, budget-friendly staple for comfort food in Battle Creek.

 

Q&A with the Reviewer

 

Q: With the move to a newer, brighter building, did the restaurant lose its classic "diner" feel?

A: Not at all. While the space is definitely more roomy and fresh, the owners did a fantastic job of bringing the history with them. Seeing the original signage and all the old memorabilia on the walls makes it feel like the same Speed’s we’ve known for years—just with a bit more elbow room!

 

Q: Is Speed’s still a good value for a family meal?

A: Absolutely. Looking at the menu, it’s rare to find such a variety of hearty meals—from $7.25 bacon cheeseburgers to full steak dinners—at these price points. It remains one of the most budget-friendly spots in Battle Creek without sacrificing quality.

 

Q: What is the one "don’t miss" item based on your visit?

A: You have to start with the onion rings! They were perfectly crispy and set the bar high for the rest of the meal. Also, if you’re looking for something slightly lighter but still satisfying, my wife highly recommends the chicken ranch wrap for that perfectly toasted crunch.