You don't have to be a Blues Brothers fan to enjoy a visit to the Billy Goat Tavern in down town Chicago . . . but it doesn't hurt. Though this iconic hamburger joint certainly did get a big boost from the movie, it has been around for many years . . . more than 75 actually.
The original tavern was established by Greek immigrant, William "Billy Goat" (hence the name) Sianis, in 1935 and moved to its current location in 1964. Though the Tavern has expanded to several locations around the Chicago area the "must see" location is the Billy Goat Tavern Original, located at 430 N. Michigan Ave lower level, at the feet of the famous Wrigley Building.
The atmosphere at the Billy Goat Tavern is as romantic and charming as it sounds. In seventy years plus one is bound to collect a bit of nostalgia and the Billy Goat is no exception. It is filled to the gills (or would that be horns) with fun stuff to look at - not to mention a fine collection of signed celebrity photos and old newspaper clips.
If you're not in the mood for food, you can always just lounge about in the fully stocked, bar or sample a taste of several of the local brews. But really, if you have come this far you should at least have the house special - the Double Cheeseburger and, of course, wash it down with a large Coke (no Pepsi, Coke - the sign reads).
So how is the food, you ask? Really? After so many years serving the same thing you can be assured that they have it down by now. The food, the experience, the history - fantastic. The Billy Goat Tavern has it all and it is well worth the trip (you were probably shopping at the Miracle Mile anyway, right). Put it on the top of your list for your next trip to Chicago.
For more information about the Billy Goat Tavern Original or other Billy Goat Tavern locations please visit their site by clicking on the Billy Goat Tavern link.
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