Billy Goat Tavern is a Chicago staple and became immortalized when John Belushi and Bill Murray did a skit lampooning the place on Saturday Night Live, imitating owner Bill Sianis’ accent. “Cheezborger! Cheezborger! Cheezborger! No Pepsi. Coke. No fries. Cheeps.” After that episode, everyone had to go there, and the place adopted those words as their motto, putting them on display all over the restaurant. This Illinois restaurant started as an actual tavern in 1934, started serving delicious burgers shortly thereafter — and the rest is history.

The Billy Goat Tavern is a beloved Chicago institution that many say serves up the best burgers in the state.
Fernando Burges/Google Maps
As you enter, you'll see various awards and recognitions that have been received over the years. At this point, you know some yummy goodness is on the way!
David Barro/Google Maps
Once inside, you'll see that the place absolutely oozes Chicago history. Greek immigrant Bill Sinise was the original owner and got the nickname "Billy Goat" when a goat fell off a truck, wandered in, and was adopted by Bill, who then grew a goatee. He brought the goat to a Cubs game, was kicked out, and cursed the Cubs, saying "Cubs, they ain't gonna win anymore."
Nohemi Cervantez/Google Maps

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The diner's burger may look simple, but it's classic and packed with flavor. It's what has kept Chicagoans coming here for generations.
Billy Goat Tavern/Facebook
These tasty burgers became such a hit that they were made available in local stores for people to cook for themselves at home.
Billy Goat Tavern/Facebook
Here's where the magic happens. They could easily have raised their prices astronomically, but they keep 'em cheap. The namesake "cheezborger" is still less than five bucks.
Florian Tschurtschenthaler/Google Maps
Bill Sianis is unfortunately no longer with us, however, his nephew Sam keeps his legacy alive.
Billy Goat Tavern/Facebook

Here’s hoping the Billy Goat Tavern keeps selling scrumptious cheezborgers for another 88 years. After you’ve tried them, get out and explore things you never thought of doing in Illinois, but should. Have you been to Billy Goat Tavern? Let us know about your experience there!

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