For 52 years, Chicago’s favorite haunt hasn’t been on Michigan Avenue, it’s been under it!
On March 4th, 1964 Billy Goat Sianis moved his tavern to the current subterranean Michigan Avenue location. The original Billy Goat was located on Madison Street, across from the Chicago Stadium. Thanks to the large following of newspaper men who were regulars at the Billy Goat, it was only natural that the new location be situated between the Tribune and Sun-Times buildings.
Ain’t nothin’ better than a delicious Double Cheezborger straight from a sizzling grill – unless it’s a Triple Cheezborger, or a home run!
Ordering at the Billy Goat may go something like this: “Cheezborger! Cheezborger! You want doublecheez?!? Who’s next!?! WHO’S NEXT!?!” If you take more than one second to answer: “Don’t look at the menu, look at ME! I order for you – DOUBLECHEEZ!” If you only feel like a single: “No. DOUBLECHEEZ!!!” If it’s the end of the week: “It’s Friday, doublecheez for everybody! It’s payday! Triplecheez for the big guy!” Want French fries with that? “No fries – CHEEPS!” Thirsty? “No Pepsi – COKE!” To drink: “Coke or Diet?!”
Such rantings by the Billy Goat staff have gone on for almost 40 years and originated when Billy Goat Sianis and another Greek immigrant by the name of Bill Charuchas would entertain patrons by yelling out: “Try the double cheese! It’s the best! No fries, cheeps!” In the 1978, Sam Sianis and Charuchas were immortalized by Saturday Night Live’s John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray and Loraine Newman. The sketch was originally written by Don Novello (of Father Guido Sarducci fame) when he was an advertising copywriter in Chicago. John Belushi and Bill Murray knew the Billy Goat from their Second City days, and the rest is history. As a result, the Billy Goat Tavern achieved national infamy. When in Chicago, Don Novello and Bill Murray still come by and visit Sam and the Billy Goat staff and have their “Doublecheezborger”!
It’s a bit chilly to be taking your family on outdoor adventures, but don’t let that stop you from having unique state-of-the-art fun at Navy Pier’s IMAX Theatre!
Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens IMAX 3D PG-13
Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or are looking to seeing it again (and again) in a new way, you’ll enjoy the continuation of the saga created by George Lucas set thirty years after Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983).
Pandas: The Journey Home, An IMAX 3D Experience Rated G
Filmmakers of Pandas: The Journey Home were granted unprecedented access to the Wolong Panda Center in China. Meet all of the pandas at the center as they get ready for their new lives in various parts of the world, and learn about their fascinating habits and personalities. A better view than seeing them the zoo, that’s for sure!
Living in the Age of Airplanes, An IMAX Experience NR
The airplane has changed our world, but do we really understand exactly how much? LIVING IN THE AGE OF AIRPLANES reminds us how profoundly this amazing invention has changed the way we do just about everything. It also renews our appreciation for the airplane and stunningly conveys the wonder and grandeur of flying. Filmed in 18 countries across all 7 continents, the film explores the countless ways the airplane affects our lives (even when we don’t fly). With a fascinating take on history, breathtaking visuals, soaring music, and a truly unique perspective, LIVING IN THE AGE OF AIRPLANES shows the airplane in a fresh light as it takes audiences on a wondrous trip around the globe.
The IMAX Theatre isn’t the ONLY 3D adventure at Navy Pier…Experience Billy Goat’s unique state-of-the-art 3D creations – a cheezborger with a side of chips, of course – just steps away from the theatre. No need for 3D glasses, all you need is your appetite!