0 Followers
Original Joe's
Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)
Original Joe's
8.3
Italian-American institution across from Washington Square with a full ‘Steaks & Chops’ section and business-friendly pacing at lunch. Reliable execution and white-jacket service make it an easy choice for executive meet-ups.
Must-Try Dishes:
14oz New York, 25oz Bone-In Ribeye, Prime Rib Dip (lunch)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Steaks-and-chops heritage with polished, swift lunch service.
Who should go: Executives needing classic, dependable plates
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:00 for smooth seating
What to order: New York steak; Steak alla Bruno; Prime rib dip
Insider tip: Request a booth for quieter conversation and quicker pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking surrounds Washington Square but fills quickly midday; a paid lot sits one block east on Vallejo near Stockton.
Dress code: Smart casual; button-downs or blouses fit well, jackets optional but common for business lunches.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak lunch; comfortable for business talk in booths or side tables.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially around 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated within 10 minutes; faster with small parties.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pasta dishes and salads can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 customizable items; request olive oil-based prep.
Gluten-free options: Some steaks and salads qualify; staff can adjust sides accordingly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if your date appreciates old-school San Francisco charm and polished service; the booths create a semi-private, classic vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes for weekday lunches; dinner and weekends benefit from reservations to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids or family gatherings; no specific kids’ menu, but approachable comfort dishes work well for most ages.
Best For
Better for: Business lunches where you need reliable pacing, polished servers, and a steakhouse menu without fuss.
Skip if: You’re seeking experimental cuisine or a quiet fine-dining experience — it’s classic, not cutting-edge.
Original Joe's
8.4
Italian-American institution (since 1937) overlooking Washington Square with tuxedoed service and a classic supper-club feel. House specialties and strong cocktails make it a polished, celebratory night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana, Joe’s Special
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A storied, white-jacket service experience with classic fare.
Who should go: Anniversary or special-occasion diners
When to visit: Early evening or late after the rush
What to order: Baked Lasagna; Ribeye; Martini
Insider tip: Grab bar seats for quicker walk-in dining.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is tight after 6pm; nearby North Beach garages (like Vallejo or Green Street) are the safest bet. No dedicated valet.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy—button-downs and dresses fit the vibe; avoid overly casual wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—buzzing supper-club energy but still fine for conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on the hour; bar seating often opens faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated right away or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pastas and salads are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify a few pasta dishes or salads; confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Partial—some dishes can be prepared gluten-free upon request; no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The classic service, dim lighting, and old-school charm make it a strong first-date spot—especially if your date appreciates timeless San Francisco institutions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky on weekends. Walk-ins can find seats at the bar or later in the evening after 8:30pm. Reservations are recommended for prime dining hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens will do fine, but it’s not a toddler-friendly environment—more of an adult, special-occasion setting.
Best For
Better for: Old-school ambiance, reliable service, and traditional Italian-American classics done with polish.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet fine dining or a cutting-edge culinary experience—try nearby North Beach modern spots instead.
Original Joe's
8.4
North Beach institution (since 1937) serving a classic baked lasagna layered with meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella. Warm service, strong martinis, and steady execution make it a dependable choice near Washington Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Made Baked Lasagna, Joe’s Eggplant Parmigiana, Chicken Parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Old-school Italian-American lasagna made in-house and served daily.
Who should go: Fans of timeless red-sauce classics
When to visit: Early evening before peak dinner rush
What to order: Baked Lasagna; Eggplant Parm; Joe’s Special
Insider tip: Bar seats move faster for walk-ins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited; nearby paid garages on Vallejo and Stockton are the best bet. No valet service.
Dress code: Classic smart casual—collared shirts or sweaters fit the vibe; jeans are fine but avoid overly casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—expect conversation buzz but still easy to chat across a table.
Weekend wait: Expect a 45–60 minute wait without a reservation after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal to no wait except during peak tourist hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple pasta and salad options, including Eggplant Parmigiana and Caprese.
Vegan options: Limited—few items without cheese or cream, but some sides and salads can be adjusted.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free pasta, though select mains and salads can accommodate requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its vintage décor and dimly lit booths make for an inviting, low-pressure date setting with a nostalgic charm.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes for small parties—bar seating moves quickly and the staff manages turnover efficiently, though waits can stretch on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly atmosphere with high chairs and a menu suited to classic tastes; early evening is best for families.
Best For
Better for: Authentic old-school service and a timeless Italian-American menu that beats trendier newcomers for comfort and consistency.
Skip if: You’re looking for experimental cuisine or vegan-forward Italian—Original Joe’s stays firmly rooted in tradition.
Original Joe's
8.3
Old-school Italian-American chophouse with a lively grill, strong martinis, and plush booths. Locals come for dependable steaks and classic sides in a timeless North Beach room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bone-In Ribeye, New York Strip, Petite Filet Mignon
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Classic grill house traditions executed with steady precision.
Who should go: Fans of timeless steakhouse comforts
When to visit: Early dinner or late evening to skip peak
What to order: Ribeye, New York strip, creamed spinach
Insider tip: Bar seats are easiest for walk-ins and martinis.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited; public garages at Vallejo and Stockton or Filbert and Powell are the safest bets. No valet service currently offered.
Dress code: Smart casual—button-downs, dresses, and nice jeans fit the room’s mid-century steakhouse style.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; bar area buzzes during peak hours, but booth seating allows for comfortable conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—pasta pomodoro, salads, and vegetable sides are solid options.
Vegan options: Limited—can assemble a meal from sides like spinach and potatoes but no dedicated dishes.
Gluten-free options: Accommodated on request; grilled meats and salads are reliable choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, martinis, and vintage charm make it an easy romantic choice if you enjoy classic steakhouse energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible; bar seating and booths open up regularly. Arrive before 6pm or after 8:30 for best odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—older kids do fine, but it leans adult with a strong bar scene and later dining crowd.
Best For
Better for: Classic steakhouse nostalgia, strong cocktails, and dependable service in a North Beach institution.
Skip if: You prefer quieter, modern minimalist steakhouses or need extensive vegan or gluten-free options.
Original Joe's
8.2
Three-generation SF institution serving Italian-American standards in a polished, bustling room by Washington Square. Grilled chops, pastas, and cocktails anchor the playbook.
Must-Try Dishes:
Joe’s Special, Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti & Meatballs
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Classic Italian-American menu with timeless diner-meets-supper-club energy.
Who should go: Families and nostalgic SF diners
When to visit: Early dinner before Washington Square fills up
What to order: Joe’s Special; chicken parm; martini + spaghetti
Insider tip: Bar seats turn fastest—good for walk-ins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking near Washington Square; North Beach Garage (735 Vallejo St) is a reliable paid option two blocks away.
Dress code: Smart casual; button-downs and jeans are fine, but many guests lean dressy for dinner.
Noise level: Lively but manageable—conversation possible at smaller tables; bar area gets louder.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually 10–15 minute wait or immediate seating before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – solid selection including pastas, salads, and vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Limited – a few pasta and salad options can be modified upon request.
Gluten-free options: Partial – they accommodate with gluten-free pasta and grilled proteins, but cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want old-school charm and lively energy over quiet intimacy. The bar or corner booths work best for dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait during peak hours; bar seating and early arrivals before 6pm improve your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Very – families are a big part of the crowd. High chairs available, and the menu works for all ages.
Best For
Better for: Classic Italian-American comfort, nostalgia, and generous portions in a true SF institution.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet fine dining or regional Italian nuance—this is more hearty and traditional.
Original Joe's
8.2
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Classic Italian-American institution (est. 1937 brand; North Beach location overlooking Washington Square) with red booths, strong martinis, and a lively sidewalk scene. Outdoor tables pair city energy with comforting pastas and parm classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Parmigiana, Ravioli & Meatball, Joe's Special
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Old-school Italian-American fare with prime Washington Square patio views.
Who should go: Families and nostalgia seekers
When to visit: Golden hour pre-sunset for patio and park buzz
What to order: Chicken parm; spaghetti & meatballs; Joe’s Special
Insider tip: Ask for bread to soak the parm sauce—simple and satisfying.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square can be tight, especially evenings; nearby paid garages on Vallejo and Stockton typically $10–$15 for 2 hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts and nice jeans or dresses fit right in with the North Beach crowd.
Noise level: Lively, especially indoors and on weekends; patio offers moderate buzz but still allows conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seating sometimes opens sooner.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated within 10–15 minutes except during peak tourist rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pasta and salad options including eggplant parm and meatless ravioli.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for pasta marinara or side veggies without butter or cheese.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free pasta, but grilled proteins and salads can be customized.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you like classic charm—dim lighting, red booths, and martinis make for an easygoing, nostalgic vibe. Not ideal for whisper-quiet romance, but perfect for conversation and energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but expect a wait, especially on weekends. The bar and outdoor patio often seat walk-ins first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids are welcome and the menu has family favorites like spaghetti and meatballs. High chairs available; better for ages 6+ during dinner hours due to crowd volume.
Best For
Better for: Lively group dinners, casual celebrations, and people-watching with a martini in hand.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet fine dining or gluten-free/vegan-forward options—try Original Joe’s Daly City or a lighter Italian spot instead.
Original Joe's
8.5
Classic San Francisco Italian-American comfort—red sauce pastas, chicken parm, and steaks—in a big, bustling room facing Washington Square. Families appreciate large booths, generous portions, and a kids-friendly menu cadence that still feels special.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Ravioli with Meat Sauce
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Long-running SF institution delivering timeless Italian-American plates.
Who should go: Families wanting classic, reliable favorites
When to visit: Early dinner before peak 6:30–8:00 rush
What to order: Chicken parm; spaghetti & meatballs; garlic bread
Insider tip: Request a Washington Square booth for easier stroller/child seating.
Original Joe's
8.4
Classic SF Italian-American supper house with a bona fide steak program—think 25oz bone-in ribeye, New York strip, and filet—served in a dark wood, white-tablecloth room overlooking Washington Square. The lively bar and old-school service make it a reliable, celebratory date night that still feels authentically North Beach.
Must-Try Dishes:
25oz Bone-In Ribeye, 14oz New York Strip, 8oz Filet Mignon
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Since 1937, a city institution with a serious steaks & chops lineup.
Who should go: Couples who love classic steakhouse energy
When to visit: Prime time 6:30–8:00pm; request a booth
What to order: Bone-in ribeye; New York strip; martini at the bar
Insider tip: Ask for the ‘Steak ala Bruno’ if you like garlicky pan juices.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited and fills quickly after 6pm; nearby garages on Vallejo or Stockton usually have space, and valet is occasionally offered on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual — dark jeans or slacks with a button-up or dressy blouse fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — energetic dinner chatter and bar clatter, but you can still hold a conversation in a booth.
Weekend wait: Expect a 45–60 minute wait without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally easy to walk in before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, pastas, and sides like spinach or mushrooms offer solid vegetarian options.
Vegan options: Limited — a few sides can be adapted, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several entrées can be prepared gluten-free on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim lighting, classic booths, and old-school charm make it an impressive yet comfortable first date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible if you arrive early or sit at the bar; otherwise, reservations are highly recommended for dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — families visit for lunch or early dinners, but the evening crowd skews adult with a cocktail-forward scene.
Best For
Better for: Traditional steakhouse fare in a lively, nostalgic setting — ideal for those who appreciate history and hearty portions.
Skip if: You want a quiet, modern fine-dining steakhouse or prefer plant-based cuisine.
Original Joe's
8.3
Classic Italian-American institution where steak-cut fries land alongside burgers and chops. The kitchen hits consistent color and crunch, and portions suit sharing across the table.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak-cut French fries, Garlic fries with parsley, Truffle-parm fries (off-menu request)
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Legacy spot pairing well-executed fries with clubhouse classics.
Who should go: Groups wanting fries with mains
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:30 or early dinner
What to order: Steak-cut fries; garlic fries; burger + fries
Insider tip: Request fries extra-crisp; timing is on point at lunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available after 5pm ($15); limited metered street parking on North Beach side, especially tough weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or nice tees; jeans fine but skip gym wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation possible at booths but bar area can get loud.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats often open faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated within 10 minutes unless peak noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pastas, salads, and sides work well without meat.
Vegan options: Limited—request modifications; fries are cooked in vegetable oil.
Gluten-free options: Partial options—steak, salads, and some mains can be modified upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual second or third date; lively energy and old-school charm make conversation easy but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins welcome, though waits build up after 6:30pm; bar or counter seating helps bypass the line.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—booths fit families and staff are accommodating; best for ages 6+ who can handle bustling energy.
Best For
Better for: Classic steak-cut fries paired with full Italian-American meals—more upscale and consistent than nearby diners.
Skip if: You want quick counter service or a quiet meal; this is a sit-down classic with a lively crowd.
Original Joe's
8.3
Historic red-booth North Beach classic (since 1937 lineage) where the “Joe’s Famous Hamburger Sandwich” anchors a menu of Italian-American staples. Third-generation Duggan family stewardship keeps the grill turning out hefty, diner-style patties in a polished setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Joe’s Famous Hamburger Sandwich, Patty Melt, Onion Rings
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Decades-deep burger tradition served in classic red-booth style.
Who should go: Burger fans wanting a sit-down, old-school experience
When to visit: Early dinner 5–6:30pm to avoid peak waits
What to order: Hamburger sandwich, patty melt, onion rings
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to watch the grill and get faster refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking around Washington Square; nearby North Beach garages on Vallejo or Filbert typically $8–$12. Valet service offered weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or nice tees are fine; locals lean classic rather than trendy.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—expect background buzz but still fine for conversation across the booth.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without reservation; bar area sometimes quicker for walk-ins.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; fills fast after that.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, pastas, and grilled cheese options available.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize salads or veggie sides, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes adaptable; ask for bunless burger or grilled proteins, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—red booths, polished service, and a warm vintage feel make it classic-date friendly without pretense.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted; bar and counter seating usually turn faster. Expect waits up to an hour on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids—booths and simple pastas work well, but it’s more adult-leaning at peak dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Classic San Francisco ambiance and full-service burgers in a timeless setting.
Skip if: You want a quick bite or plant-based options—this is more about tradition and hearty fare.