A Statement from the Sianis Family Regarding Billy Goat on Michigan Ave.

Nov 14, 2013 | Cheezborger, Michigan Avenue

The Sianis Family would like to thank all of the Billy Goat Tavern fans for their years of unrelenting loyalty and support. This outpouring of affection and support from our customers and from our social media fans these past few days has touched our hearts deeply. We share your passion for the Tavern’s history, its cultural influence, and the many stories and memories shared over these many long years. The Billy Goat Tavern has become a Chicago Landmark, a true legend, and would not be what it is today without our fans all over the world, but especially the great people of Chicago. We are proud to be Chicagoans for life.

We would like to take this opportunity to clear the record of some misinformation that has been reported these past few days. First, we have no knowledge of the details in the proposed redevelopment, and no plans have been presented to us, if they even exist. There have been no negotiations with us about moving the Tavern any time soon, and as far as we know the Tavern is here to stay on Michigan Avenue.

For close to 50 years we have had our home at the Realtor Building on Michigan Avenue, and over those years have become a family with the Realtors Association. So much so that in 2005 when the National Association of Realtors built a headquarters in Washington DC, without second thought they asked us to go with them and open a Billy Goat Tavern in that building, and we did. The Realtor Building has been above and beyond great to us over the years. They are fully aware of the Billy Goat Tavern’s historical significance with the City of Chicago and the importance that the Tavern stay where it is.

The Realtor Building has been keeping us in the loop since discussions began with us over a month ago, and have assured us that The Billy Goat Tavern will not leave or close its doors on Michigan Avenue if or when the proposed redevelopment happens. From our close relationship with the association over the years, we have full faith and trust that they will take care of the Tavern for the next generation to enjoy.

It was a shock for the neighborhood when the Original Billy Goat Tavern left Madison Street in 1964, after 30 years, and moved to Michigan Avenue. But what had made the Tavern legendary were not the walls that surrounded it, but the history, its stories and the people who resided within. So when it did move we enjoyed another 50 great years and added to its history and lore. If or when this proposed redevelopment happens, the Realtors Association will be on the front lines when it comes to preserving the legendary Tavern on Michigan Avenue and its legacy.

Be assured that we will land on all four hooves and the only thing that will have changed will be the plumbing…..even if that means scraping the 50 year cigar smoke stains from the walls and moving that as well.

Sincerely,
The Sianis Family
The Billy Goat Tavern Family

Cheezborger. Cheezborger. Cheezborger.

The best tavern in Chicago isn’t on Michigan Ave., it’s under it.

The original Billy Goat on Madison Ave.