Original Joe’s history runs deep, beginning in 1937 as a 14-stool counter on a saw dust covered floor at 144 Taylor Street in San Francisco’s Tenderloin. It was opened by a Croatian immigrant, Tony Rodin, who had witnessed hunger, war and adversity—a man who landed here in search of the American Dream and the promise to provide something great for those who had the will to seize it. It was Tony’s will, honest work ethic and vibrant sense of hospitality that grew Original Joe’s into the culinary institution it is today.
Serving classic Italian-American fare, the restaurant prepares dishes in an open kitchen for all to see, providing hearty portions at reasonable prices. The oldest of all the “Joe’s” restaurants, Original Joe’s is the innovator of the now nationally known “Joe’s Concept”—exhibition kitchen, notable leather booths, smooth cocktails and renowned Italian-American menu. Known as much for its comfortable familiarity as for its abundant portions, the menu offers hamburgers, steaks, seafood and pastas, which now represent a Northern-California style of food that delivers the feeling of hope, camaraderie and optimism synonymous with the American Dream.
Today, Original Joe’s has succeeded in establishing a high-profile, yet approachable identity in San Francisco and surrounding Bay Area, standing tall among the well-known restaurants and bars—a place genuinely worthy of its proven credential.
