Original Joe Restaurant in Walnut Creek

This place was temporarily closed 3 Days after Operation due to a Kitchen Fire. I believe it is still closed as of this writing date.

https://bayareatelegraph.com/2025/08/25/more-details-emerge-on-original-joes-in-walnut-creek-as-reopening-is-delayed/

The recent opening of Original Joe Restaurant is another fantastic addition to the Walnut Creek culinary Scene last August 14.  If you love American- Italian food, this is the place to go. Here's the latest writeup and some photos of the menu I found in my Facebook page for your viewing pleasure. This place is in my wish list.    

Opening & Local Coverage

• The grand opening took place Thursday, August 14, 2025, bringing the iconic San Francisco Italian-American restaurant to Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek.SFistABC7 San Francisco

• KGO-TV (ABC7) reported that locals are thrilled: one resident called it “the most exciting thing that's happened in the culinary world for this area in some time” and noted the new location features the original sign from the 1937 Tenderloin opening.ABC7 San Francisco

• SFist described the space as massive and stylish: 300 seats including cocktail lounge, private dining, and substantial indoor/outdoor areas. They even noted Mayor Cindy Darling proclaimed August 14 as "Original Joe’s Day" in Walnut Creek.SFist

• A Yahoo report confirmed the August 14 opening at 1300 S Main St., with doors opening to the public at 11 AM.Yahoo

Dining Room Area

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Early Reviews & Buzz

OpenTable

• Though formal reviews are just starting to appear, the description highlights “exceptional food, service, and ambiance,” “stunning decor,” and “delicious dishes.”OpenTable+1

• OpenTable rankings show 5.0 “Exceptional” rating (based on 30 diners) and lists Original Joe’s as a top Italian and American restaurant in Walnut Creek.OpenTable+1

Open Kitchen Area

• Early feedback on Yelp is also glowing:

  “The food is absolutely outstanding—fresh, flavorful, and authentic with every bite. The drinks were equally impressive, crafted with care…”Yelp

• Another user posted:

  “No disrespect for the many great restaurants in Walnut Creek, but Original Joe's truly hits every mark: food, service, and ambiance… Every meal was delicious. Such large portions that we had a second meal the next day.”Yelp+1

• Yelp’s broader rankings list it among the top spots under “Old School Italian,” with a 4.6 rating from 22 reviews—not bad for the first few days!Yelp

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Here are some photos of the Dishes

Fillet of Sole 

French Fries

 

Rib-Eye and Mashed Potatoes

The Calamari

The Coconut- Margarita

Summary

• Opening date: August 14, 2025 — Confirmed by multiple outlets.

• Media coverage: Warm and celebratory, with civic recognition (Original Joe’s Day).

• Reviews: Early diners are loving it—praised for food, drinks, décor, atmosphere, service, and generous portions.

At Opening Day, the waiting time was only about one hour according to one of restaurant's patrons that day ( FaceBook comment).   
I am getting hungry just looking at the Calamari. 

Meanwhile, here's news on latest Development in Downtown Walnut Creek. Brian Hirahara, son of our fellow resident Carle is involved in  this project. My Congratultions!

 

https://bayareatelegraph.com/2025/08/25/walnut-creeks-massive-24000-sqft-food-hall-is-coming-heres-everything-we-know-so-far/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMbWqFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHr45QMkMEnqoLCj8Gwo-3iJsOspSLt-z7Gp-BpNroJ6S8HJuFTRnV4liU2Ie_aem_nxVFuLJtuGzNO_Hc5g95swI 

I am hoping a Filipino restaurant will be one of its tenants, so I do not have to drive to Concord or Pleasant Hill to enjoy Filipino Food

Finally, Did you know that....    

Original Joe's is a San Francisco institution with a history rooted in the city's Italian-American community. It began in 1937 as a small, 14-stool counter on Taylor Street, founded by Croatian immigrant Tony Rodin. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its classic Italian-American comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, it expanded, including a location in San Jose and a more recent move to North Beach after a fire. Original Joe's is now a multi-generational family-run business, with the third generation overseeing its operations. 

Key aspects of Original Joe's history:

• 1937: Founded by Tony Rodin on Taylor Street in San Francisco's Tenderloin. 
• 1956: A San Jose location was opened by partners who aimed to bring the San Francisco experience to the South Bay. 
• 2007: The original Taylor Street location was destroyed by a fire. 
• 2012: Original Joe's reopened in San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood. 
• Multi-Generational Family Business: The restaurant is now run by Tony Rodin's grandchildren. 
• Expansion: Original Joe's recently opened its first East Bay location in Walnut Creek. 
• Signature Dishes: Known for classic Italian-American comfort food and generous portions. 
• Community Hub: It has served a diverse clientele, from politicians to people from all walks of life. 
  
  
  
  
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