Mike Royko and a Visit from President Bush

in 1991, President Bush came to Billy Goat for a visit and to meet Sam.

Sam calls Mike and excitedly tells his assistant over the phone, “The president wants to know if Mike is here. I tell him no and then he wants to know where he usually sits and I show him and he seems very excited to see where he site when he comes down here.”

Sam wants Mike to have a burger with Bush. Hes says no. Sam calls Mike’s wide, Judy. Shes wants him to go. He says no. Mike often refers to Bush as “the greatest tourist of our time,” and in the next day’s Tribune writes, “The country is going to hell in a hand basket, and the president of the United States wants to know on what part of the bar I rest my elbows? Or forehead?”

Read more stories about Mike Royko, Sam and Billy Goat Tavern Rick Kogan’s Book “A Chicago Tavern” https://www.billygoattavern.com/product/book-a-chicago-tavern/

Royko’s Raiders

Royko’s Raiders deliver another trophy – Mike Royko (back row, second from right), Don DeBat (back row, third from left), Tim Weigel (front row, far right)

Chicago’s after-work tavern since 1934.

Chicago’s after-work tavern since 1934.

Generations of Chicagoans have been butting in to Billy Goat Tavern after work. Why?  Because after a tough day at work, you can’t beat a hot borger, a cold beer, and a great bartender.

Even the best day at work can’t top the best cheezborger in Chicago. So, if you can’t stop in after work, then leave early.