Sam Sianis, longtime owner of iconic Billy Goat Tavern, dies, restaurant says
ABC7 Chicago • • business
Key Points:
- Sam Sianis, the longtime owner of the iconic Billy Goat Tavern in Chicago, passed away peacefully at age 91, surrounded by family.
- Sianis was celebrated as a Chicago legend known for his tireless work ethic, devotion to the tavern, and deep love for the city, often seen behind the grill or bar.
- The Billy Goat Tavern, established in 1934 with the Michigan Avenue location opening in 1964, is famous for inspiring the "Billy Goat Curse" on the Chicago Cubs and John Belushi's "Saturday Night Live" impersonation.
- Employees and customers remember Sianis as humble, generous, and friendly, noting his kindness to staff and the homeless community.
- Under Sianis' leadership, the Billy Goat Tavern expanded to seven locations in the Chicago area and became a beloved cultural and social hub, especially among journalists and locals.