LOGAN SQUARE — A historic 1928 building that once housed the Diversey Funeral Home will soon become the Afterlife Bar and Grill, a new neighborhood gathering spot at 3601 W. Diversey Ave. The project is being led by local business owners Valerie and James “Jim” Spyropoulos, who have a track record of opening and operating restaurants throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Preserving History While Adding New Life
The Spyropoulos family plans to retain the building’s distinctive stained‑glass windows and possibly the original funeral home sign, while giving the interior a “cathedral‑style” aesthetic that nods to its past without frightening patrons. “We’re not building any benches out of caskets or anything,” Jim Spyropoulos said with a laugh.
Funding and Timeline
The city awarded the developers a Community Development Grant of $250,000 in June to support the bar and restaurant build‑out. The owners expect to invest an additional $300,000 of private capital. Architectural plans are being finalized, permits will be filed soon, and construction is projected to last at least a year.
Menu and Theme
While the full menu is still being developed, the Spyropouloses anticipate classic American bar fare such as smashburgers and wings. The cocktail program will play on the “afterlife” theme, with drinks like the high‑proof “Six Feet Under.”
Local Impact
Preserving the building’s exterior and maintaining the apartments above the storefront aligns with the goals of Logan Square Preservation president Andy Schneider, who praised the adaptive reuse as a “tremendous victory for preservation.” The project adds a new dining option to the neighborhood and keeps a piece of local architectural heritage intact.
Owners’ Background
Valerie and Jim Spyropoulos have long been involved in Chicago’s food scene, having opened and sold fast‑casual concepts such as Fulton’s Chicken in Rogers Park and Mr. Zees II in Portage Park. Their portfolio also includes eateries at O’Hare Airport, the East of Edens restaurant in Lincolnwood, and a West Loop location that now houses Su Taqueria El Rey Del Taco. Jim also owns a collectibles shop in Portage Park.
The Afterlife Bar and Grill is described by the owners as a passion project, driven by a desire to preserve the historic structure while offering residents a new place to eat, drink, and gather.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
