Original Joe’s is a classic SF restaurant that’s been dishing out authentic Italian food in North Beach for over 80 years. The family-owned restaurant is widely considered an SF institution, and after decades in business, the third-generation owners John and Elena Duggan have added another restaurant to their portfolio.
The first Little Original Joes opened in West Portal during the pandemic, offering a specialty retail market and takeout options. Now, the restaurant has opened a second Little Original Joe’s, this time with its original vision of a full-service, sit-down restaurant.
Located in the Marina, the restaurant pays homage to the founder, Tony Rodin, who lived there for 50 years. The space sports an Art Deco theme, with a full bar fit with 12 stools and comfortable booths in the dining room. A 6-foot black and white photo of the original restauranter Tony Rodin hangs in the corner, a charming reminder of the restaurant’s beginnings. High ceilings and large windows compliment the black and white tile floor, reminiscent of the original location. Ever dedicated to the aesthetic, even potato chips are served on silver platters, and cocktails are finished with stylized garnishes and striped straws.
By 6:00 pm, the bar was buzzing with people eagerly drinking summer spritzes. The Italian black cherry spritz was a standout among the cocktail list, and the Pizza Martini with mixed vodka and gin had a salty finish. The menu features familiar favorites, such as a spicy vodka rigatoni and a melt-in-your-mouth butter cake. The marinated olives with whipped ricotta served with olive oil was ideal for sharing and the truffle cavatelli was a decedent treat. Plenty of pizzas are featured on the menu with creative combinations and the option to create your own.
The restaurant is family-friendly and lively, with the booths in the early evening and the elegant bar overflowing with guests. Little Original Joes embraces its predecessor’s welcoming atmosphere, and just a few weeks after opening, the restaurant is already drawing crowds in its new neighborhood.
Little Original Joe’s is located at 2301 Chestnut Street, and is open 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 pm Sunday through Thursday, and remains open until 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. Both reservations and walk-ins are welcome.