Billy Goat Tavern and Grill Slated to Expand to the Wrigleyville Area

According to a recent permit filing, Billy Goat Tavern and Grill will soon open in the Wrigleyville area at 3724-3726 N Clark Street.

A representative of Billy Goat Tavern and Grill was not immediately available for commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request.

According to the company’s website , this will be the ninth overall location for Billy Goat Tavern and Grill. Some of the other locations reside at O’Hare, Yorktown, and more.

“The original Billy Goat Tavern location was “born” in 1934 when Greek immigrant, William “Billy Goat” Sianis, purchased the Lincoln Tavern. Billy Goat bought the tavern for $205, with a check that bounced but was later repaid with sales from the first weekend. The tavern was located across from the Chicago Stadium (now United Center) and attracted mainly sports fans.”

“Sianis became known as “Billy Goat,” when a goat fell off a passing truck and wandered inside. Sianis adopted the goat, grew a goatee, acquired the nickname “Billy Goat,” and changed the name of the bar to the Billy Goat Tavern.”

“The Republican Convention came to town in 1944 and Billy Goat posted a sign saying, “No Republicans allowed.” This caused the tavern to be packed with Republicans demanding to be served and led to local fame for the savvy Billy Goat, publicity stunt master.”

“In 1964, Billy Goat moved his tavern to its present subterranean location. Since then, the Billy Goat Tavern has expanded to include locations on Washington Street (Loop), Wells Street (South Loop), the “Billy Goat Inn” on Madison Avenue (United Center), Navy Pier, O’Hare (Terminal 1, Concourse C), and Midway Airport,” the website adds.

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