Billy Goat Tavern

Billy Goat Tavern

The entrance to the Billy Goat Tavern

The Billy Goat Tavern is a chain of taverns located primarily in Chicago, Illinois, known for its unique history and cultural significance. The original location, situated on Lower Michigan Avenue, has become a landmark in the city, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The tavern is famous for its "Cheezborger" and its connection to the Chicago Cubs and the Saturday Night Live sketch "Cheezborger, Cheezborger."

History

The Billy Goat Tavern was founded in 1934 by William Sianis, a Greek immigrant. Sianis purchased the tavern, originally called the "Lincoln Tavern," for $205. The tavern gained its name when a goat fell off a passing truck and wandered into the establishment. Sianis adopted the goat, named it "Billy," and renamed the tavern the "Billy Goat Inn."

In 1944, the tavern moved to its current location on Lower Michigan Avenue, beneath Michigan Avenue Bridge. This move was strategic, as it placed the tavern in the heart of the city, making it accessible to journalists and other professionals working in the nearby Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times buildings.

The Curse of the Billy Goat

Inside the Billy Goat Tavern

The "Curse of the Billy Goat" is a famous sports curse that originated in 1945. During the World Series, Sianis attempted to bring his goat to Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs play. However, he was asked to leave because the goat's odor was bothering other fans. Outraged, Sianis allegedly declared, "Them Cubs, they ain't gonna win no more," cursing the team. The Cubs did not win a World Series again until 2016, leading many to believe in the curse's power.

Cultural Impact

The Billy Goat Tavern gained national fame through a Saturday Night Live sketch featuring John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, and Bill Murray. The sketch, "Cheezborger, Cheezborger," parodied the tavern's menu and the staff's insistence on serving "cheezborgers" and "no Pepsi, Coke!" This portrayal cemented the tavern's place in American pop culture.

Menu

The menu at the Billy Goat Tavern is simple and straightforward, focusing on its signature "Cheezborger." The tavern also offers hot dogs, fries, and breakfast items. The "double cheezborger" and "triple cheezborger" are popular choices among patrons.

Locations

While the original location remains the most famous, the Billy Goat Tavern has expanded to several other locations in the Chicago area and beyond. Each location maintains the same casual atmosphere and menu that made the original tavern famous.

Legacy

Sign at the Billy Goat Tavern

The Billy Goat Tavern is more than just a place to eat; it is a piece of Chicago's history. Its walls are adorned with memorabilia and photographs that tell the story of its past. The tavern continues to be a gathering place for journalists, locals, and tourists, all drawn by its storied past and unique charm.

Related pages

• Chicago Cubs
• Saturday Night Live
• Wrigley Field
• Michigan Avenue (Chicago)