Two Way Inn

History

Established in 1876, the Two Way Inn is widely considered Detroit’s oldest bar — and it’s got the stories to back it up. The building’s origins trace back to the legendary Philetus W. Norris — Civil War vet, Yellowstone superintendent, and all-around character — whose name is tied to its earliest days. Over the years, the space wore many hats: a dentist’s office, doctor’s office, brothel, post office, dry goods store, dance hall, and even a jail — all while pouring drinks as a saloon.

When Prohibition hit, the Two Way Inn didn’t close — it adapted. Whiskey was poured for “medicinal purposes,” and business remained surprisingly healthy.

The Vanneck family owned the Two Way Inn through the early 1900s, shaping much of its storied past. In 1973, longtime patron Harry Malak purchased the bar, and it has remained in the Malak family ever since — now lovingly run by his daughter, Mary Aganowski. The Two Way Inn will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026, a testament to its enduring place in Detroit’s history.

The bell hangs in the center of the bar — not as a relic from the past, but as a ritual of the present. When someone buys a round for the house, they ring the bell and earn bragging rights with their name written on the board. Some folks chase legends — here, you become one.

Mary’s Midweek Pop-Ups

Every Wednesday and Thursday, something good is cooking at the Two Way Inn — and it’s whatever Mary feels like making. From cottage pie, sloppy joes, and homemade chili to kielbasa and sauerkraut that’ll take you right back to grandma’s kitchen, Mary’s pop-ups are all about comfort, flavor, and feeding the hardworking folks who keep the Motor City moving. She cooks up a big batch, and once it’s gone, it’s gone. No menus. No reservations. Just good food, good folks, and a seat at Detroit’s oldest bar.

Haunting at the Two Way

The Two Way Inn is widely considered one of Detroit’s most haunted places, a reputation earned through generations of stories, strange moments, and the quiet consensus of those who believe. It's been written about in books, mentioned in ghost tours, and whispered about across barstools. Paranormal investigators often reach out and while some are welcome to wonder, the family has chosen not to chase or seek validation. As the family says, “It’s not about fear — it’s about respect.” There are stories, some shared over a drink, others left unsaid. You might hear one if you're lucky and if you're really lucky... you just might experience one for yourself..

Contact

Hours

Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Address

Two Way Inn
17897 Mount Elliott Street
Detroit, MI 48212

Location Map

Phone

(313) 891-4925

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