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Billy Goat Tavern

Billy Goat Tavern The Billy Goat Tavern, located on N Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois, is a world-famous bar & grill and burger restaurant chain founded in 1934 by William Sianis, a Greek immigrant. With its unique fame primarily achieved through newspaper columns by Mike Royko, the restaurant serves delicious burgers and offers a memorable experience.
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Recent social media posts

We touched grass. It was nice. Now back to beer.
06/03/2026

We touched grass. It was nice. Now back to beer.

You're Chicago sports fans.You should be used to bitter by now.If you can handle decades of heartache and disappointment...
06/01/2026

You're Chicago sports fans.
You should be used to bitter by now.

If you can handle decades of heartache and disappointment, surely you can handle "The Chicago Handshake." C'mon--give it a shot!

Cheezborger! Cheezborger! Cheezborger!
06/01/2026

Cheezborger! Cheezborger! Cheezborger!

Despite dining costs being at an all-time high, these local spots offer fresh, high-quality ingredients and family-friendly dishes.

Everyone’s welcome to float with the Goat 🌈 Happy Pride!
06/01/2026

Everyone’s welcome to float with the Goat 🌈 Happy Pride!

More Chicago than a Lakeshore Drive pot hole
05/31/2026

More Chicago than a Lakeshore Drive pot hole

You can't beat a cheezborger in the sunshine. Time to enjoy the lake view, the warm sun, and a delicious cheezborger--or...
05/30/2026

You can't beat a cheezborger in the sunshine. Time to enjoy the lake view, the warm sun, and a delicious cheezborger--or two--at Navy Pier!

Happy Memorial Day! –Goat
05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day!

–Goat

❤️
05/23/2026

❤️

Sam Sianis was more than the face of Billy Goat Tavern. He was part of the soul of Chicago hospitality. We always admired the way he carried such an iconic legacy with humor, heart, and authenticity. The city won’t be the same without him.
Sending love to the Sianis family and the entire team. Thank you for the memories, the laughs, and everything you gave to this city, Sam. 🤍

05/21/2026

Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming outpouring of love, memories, and tributes shared for Sam.

Your kind words, stories, and support have meant more to us than we can put into words. Sam loved Chicago, the tavern, and the people who walked through its doors every day. Seeing how many lives he touched is a true reflection of the legacy he leaves behind.

From all of us at Billy Goat Tavern, thank you for honoring Sam and keeping his spirit alive!🐐🪽

The New York Times
05/20/2026

The New York Times

His dive bar became famous thanks to Mike Royko’s columns, a baseball curse and a “Saturday Night Live” skit.

REMEMBERING SAM: The Man Who Inspired the Classic Saturday Night Live Cheezborger Skit!
05/20/2026

REMEMBERING SAM: The Man Who Inspired the Classic Saturday Night Live Cheezborger Skit!

05/19/2026
Remembering Sam - The man who broke the Curse of the Billy Goat on the Chicago Cubs
05/19/2026

Remembering Sam - The man who broke the Curse of the Billy Goat on the Chicago Cubs

REMEMBERING SAM: Sam and Mike Royko developed a legendary friendship. Now they're reunited. “I miss Mike very much,” Sa...
05/18/2026

REMEMBERING SAM: Sam and Mike Royko developed a legendary friendship. Now they're reunited.

“I miss Mike very much,” Sam says in May 2000. “I see Mike three, four times. Matter of fact, I see him three days ago. Mike come by here. It was when he was dead. I ask him if he remembers when I said, ‘Mike, if anything ever happen to me, I want you to keep the Billy Goat name alive.’ And he nods his head and I tell him, ‘Now that you are gone I am going to keep your name alive. I’m going to make sure your name will live forever.’”

05/15/2026

Sam Sianis of the Billy Goat, Chicago’s most famous saloonkeeper, dies at 91 🐐🍔🕊️

📸: The Billy Goat Tavern’s Sam Sianis at his famous restaurant and bar at Hubbard Street and lower Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, Feb. 18, 2026. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune)

05/15/2026

REST IN PEACE: Chicago has lost a true original. Billy Goat Tavern owner Sam Sianis has died, the restaurant announced Friday | DETAILS⬇️

05/15/2026

Sam Sianis, legendary owner of the Billy Goat Tavern, died Friday from natural causes at Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital. He was 91.

❤️
05/15/2026

❤️

Sam Sianis, a Greek immigrant who became one of the most successful saloonkeepers and a popular figure in the sports and media worlds, died in Chicago early Friday morning. He was 91.

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sam Sianis — the legendary, longtime owner of ...
05/15/2026

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sam Sianis — the legendary, longtime owner of Billy Goat Tavern and a true Chicago original. Sam passed away peacefully this morning in his sleep, surrounded by his loving family.

Sam was more than a restaurateur; he was a Chicago legend. His tireless work ethic, devotion to his beloved Tavern, and deep love for this city made him a cultural icon and an inspiration to all who knew him. Above all, he was a devoted family man and a cherished friend to countless people whose lives he touched.

Loved by many, he will be deeply missed. May his memory be eternal.

Mickey is the world’s most famous Mouse.But Billy is the world’s most famous Goat.
05/15/2026

Mickey is the world’s most famous Mouse.
But Billy is the world’s most famous Goat.

This is where Chicago’s greatest journalists hang.
05/14/2026

This is where Chicago’s greatest journalists hang.

Address

430 N Michigan Avenue, Lower
Chicago, IL
60611

The bar & grill and burger restaurant is located on N Michigan Avenue in Chicago. For those using public transportation, take the subway/bus and get off at the nearest station. From there, walk towards N Michigan Avenue and follow it for a few blocks until you arrive at your destination.

For those driving, take the nearest highway and exit at Michigan Avenue. Turn onto N Michigan Avenue and continue driving until you see the location on your left or right side. Parking options include street parking or nearby parking garages that may charge a fee.

Opening Hours

Monday 6am - 1am
Tuesday 6am - 1am
Wednesday 6am - 1am
Thursday 6am - 1am
Friday 6am - 2am
Saturday 6am - 3am
Sunday 9am - 2am

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What people say

Billy Goat Tavern on N Michigan Avenue in Chicago is a must-visit for anyone looking for a classic American bar and grill experience. Founded in 1934 by William Sianis, this tavern has achieved worldwide fame thanks to its appearances in newspaper columns by Mike Royko and the Olympia Cafe sketch on Saturday Night Live. The ambiance of the place is truly unique, with its old-school decor and friendly staff. But what really sets Billy Goat Tavern apart is its delicious food. Their burgers are simply amazing - juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. And don't forget to try their famous "Cheezborger! Cheezborger!" - it's a true Chicago classic! Whether you're a local or just visiting the Windy City, Billy Goat Tavern should definitely be on your list of places to check out.

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