I love this place. I love this place because it is quint-essential Chicago and has the best hamburgers in the entire city. Yes, this is the place that inspired the SNL bit with the Cheezeborger, cheezeborger bit. So, be prepared when you walk into this Chicago classic.
First of all, you have to find it. It looks like you are about to go underground to find the subway. The entire place is beneath Michigan Avenue, so keep your eyes open for the signs and the stairs.
When you get in, you find yourself in a bar. Yes, the Billy Goat is a bar. That's why there's smoke and why it looks like...well...a bar. The men behind the bar will let out a Cheezeborger, cheezeborger for you. They will also tell you there is no Coke but Pepsi and no fries but chips.
I recommend the double-cheeseburger which comes out "Double-Oh Cheeeze" when shouted down the line. You then get two delicious, greasy hamburgers on kaiser-type roles. You get to add the ketchup and onions. This is greasy, heart-clogging hamburgers the way they were meant to be.
This is a legendary restaurant complete with Cubs-related lore. Mike Royko, the famous columnist from Chicago, was famous for hanging out in this place. It's history and it's delicious. If you are looking for something fancy, go visit the Signature Room down the street in the Hancock Building.
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