Inside Deadbolt, Preserving Dive Bar History While Transforming The Two Way in Logan

Visitors of the Deadbolt would be hard pressed to spot remnants of the departed Two Way Lounge at the corner of Milwaukee and Fullerton. The lighting, the seating and the mood have been transformed inside the formerly-gritty dive bar which closed last year after nearly half a century of cheap beer and sticky floors to neighborhood regulars. Dustin Drankiewicz (MONEYGUN, Dusek’s Board & Beer) has ensured bartenders will still pour Old Styles, and his crew has restored the bar’s original tin ceiling. However, the ambience—which includes some killer house cocktails—is a radical change.

The space at 2928 W. Fullerton Ave. has entrances on both Fullerton and Milwaukee avenues in Logan Square, and new ownership believed it was in need of major TLC. Much of the bar’s infrastructure was neglected. Deadbolt’s team built a new bar top and it feels more like a tavern rather than a dive thanks to dark woods and leather booths. The exposed brick walls have been restored, harkening back to a time before the Two Way. Another change is the DJ’s platform that can also double as a bandstand. Say goodbye to the old the pool table.

Drankiewicz said he preferred a simple design and he hopes the changes will better showcase the space’s energy and create a new generation of regulars who may come to trust the Deadbolt as their neighborhood hang. But that doesn’t mean Two Way’s loyal fans aren’t welcome. Drankiewicz wants to make the old-timers happy and invites them to take a gander at the changes.

Officially, Deadbolt management isn’t ready to share an opening date, but they’re close to wrapping up staff training. Don’t be surprised if they start pouring by the end of the week.

Take the first look inside the bar below.

Marc Much