Original Joe’s

144 Taylor @ Eddy

The decor of this spacious Italian/American restaurant harkens back to a time when the Tenderloin was a little bit more tender and smelled a lot less of piss. At Original Joe’s not much has changed since 1937; the waiters still wear tuxes, the booths are large, the cocktail lounge is swanky, and you can sit at the lunch counter if you like. Truthfully, eating here feels like being in a Frank Sinatra song. Although this is definitely not the cheapest place in the Loin (it’s about $12 for an entree), the portions are big enough to share with the guy who plans on mugging you on your way out. Really though, if you want a good meal and can spare a few extra bucks go to Original Joe’s.
p.s. Word to my dad who turned me on to this place because it’s his favorite restaurant in the City.

p.p.s. Unfortunately Original Joe’s recently burned down 🙁