Sam Sianis, the beloved owner of the Billy Goat Tavern, passed away on Friday at the age of 91. He died from natural causes at Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital. His son, Bill Sianis, shared, “My dad had a way of lighting up any room. He was always cheerful.” Along with his brother Paul, Bill has been running the family tavern since their father retired about a decade ago.
Sam Sianis opened the famous Billy Goat Tavern on Lower Michigan Avenue in 1964. This spot became known for his iconic phrase, “Cheezborger, cheezborger, cheezborger. Cheeps, no fries, Coke, no Pepsi,” made famous by a 1978 Saturday Night Live sketch. Customers loved the genuine atmosphere, and Sam was often seen behind the bar, chatting and taking photos with patrons.
The tavern has a rich history linked to the “Curse of the Billy Goat,” which started with Sam’s uncle, William Sianis. In 1945, William brought his pet goat, Murphy, to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. When the goat was removed due to complaints about its smell, he allegedly cursed the team, predicting they would never win another World Series without a goat in the stadium. This legendary event has remained a point of fascination for Cubs fans.
Years later, in 2016, just before the Cubs broke their long championship drought, the Sianis family held a “Reverse the Curse” ceremony. This event marked 71 years since Murphy was banned from Wrigley Field. They hung a traditional Greek goat bell, called a trokani, around the neck of a new goat, hoping to lift the curse.
Sam, who immigrated to the U.S. from Greece in 1955, quickly became part of the fabric of Chicago life. He worked hard in his uncle’s tavern and helped it grow into a cherished institution. Now, there are seven Billy Goat locations across the city, each welcoming locals and visitors alike.
The Lower Michigan location became a favorite spot for journalists due to its proximity to the Chicago Sun-Times and Tribune. Columnist Mike Royko often visited and shared a close bond with Sam. Guests still reminisce about Sam’s warm interactions and friendly demeanor. Regulars, like Mikey Holmes, who has been visiting since 1989, recall how Sam always engaged with them, creating a sense of community.
Mark Guzman, the head cook at the tavern, described the Sianis family as always warm and genuine. “You think of Chicago, you think of the Cubs, the Blackhawks, and the Billy Goat,” he said.
Sam Sianis leaves behind his wife, Irene, six children, and twelve grandchildren. While the tavern will carry on, his legacy of warmth and joy will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.
For further exploration of the Billy Goat Tavern’s history and its significant cultural impact, you can visit this official site.
