Billy Goat Tavern

Billy Goat Tavern is a cherished Chicago-based restaurant group renowned for its iconic burgers and casual pub fare, deeply intertwined with the city's sports and media history. The tavern was founded in 1934 by Greek immigrant William 'Billy Goat' Sianis, who opened the first location on West Madison Street. It quickly became a popular spot for journalists, politicians, and sports fans. A notable moment in its history occurred in 1945 when Sianis and his pet goat were denied entry to Wrigley Field, leading to the legendary "Curse of the Billy Goat," which lingered over the Chicago Cubs for many years.

Today, Billy Goat Tavern operates eight locations as of November 2025, all within the Chicago area, including downtown, the suburbs, and O’Hare International Airport. Known for its "Cheezborger, Cheezborger" chant, made famous by a Saturday Night Live sketch, the tavern offers a no-frills, counter-service experience that attracts both locals and tourists. The Sianis family continues to own and manage the business, maintaining its quirky traditions and strong community presence.

In recent years, the company has focused on optimizing its existing locations and expanding selectively into high-traffic areas like airports. This measured approach ensures that Billy Goat Tavern remains a reliable and recognizable name in the food and beverage industry. For commercial real estate professionals, the tavern's enduring brand appeal, adaptability to various formats, and ability to draw consistent foot traffic make it an attractive tenant for both traditional and non-traditional venues. Billy Goat Tavern's blend of historic charm and operational resilience offers landlords a unique and experience-driven anchor tenant.