Billy Goat Tavern

The Billy Goat Tavern is a Chicago tavern and grill founded in 1934 by Greek immigrant William "Billy Goat" Sianis, who purchased the Lincoln Tavern that year. It became a favorite home of Chicago journalists and is known for the "Curse on the Cubs" and the classic SNL skit. The tavern moved to its present subterranean location in 1964 and has since expanded to multiple Chicagoland locations, including Navy Pier, Merchandise Mart, Clark Street (Wrigleyville), the "Billy Goat Inn" on Madison Avenue (United Center), O'Hare (Terminal 1, Concourse C), and Midway Airport. The tradition lives on with Sam and his family, and Billy Goat Tavern Burgers and Beer are now available at local grocery stores.

The original Billy Goat Tavern location was "born" in 1934 when Greek immigrant William "Billy Goat" Sianis purchased the Lincoln Tavern for $205, with a check that bounced but was later repaid with sales from the first weekend. The tavern was located across from the Chicago Stadium (now United Center) and attracted mainly sports fans. Sianis became known as "Billy Goat" when a goat fell off a passing truck and wandered inside; he adopted the goat, grew a goatee, acquired the nickname, and changed the name of the bar to the Billy Goat Tavern. In 1944, the Republican Convention came to town and Billy Goat posted a sign saying, "No Republicans allowed," which caused the tavern to be packed with Republicans demanding to be served and led to local fame for the savvy Billy Goat, publicity stunt master. In 1964, Billy Goat moved his tavern to its present subterranean location. Since then, the Billy Goat Tavern has expanded to include locations on Navy Pier, Merchandise Mart, Clark Street (Wrigleyville), the "Billy Goat Inn" on Madison Avenue (United Center), Navy Pier, O'Hare (Terminal 1, Concourse C), and Midway Airport. The tradition lives on with Sam and his family.

A Chicago tavern and grill known for its Cheezborger, its association with Chicago journalists, the "Curse on the Cubs," and the classic SNL skit.

• Cheezborger

• Double Cheezborger

• Triple Cheezborger

• Homerun

• Billy Goat Tavern Burgers and Beer (grocery)

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