Original Joe’s, San Francisco’s time-honored, family-owned and operated Italian-American restaurant, has announced plans to open its third location in Walnut Creek, CA. Opening in 2024, Original Joe’s will bring its signature dishes, classic cocktails, and iconic booths to the 8,000-square-foot former Stanford’s restaurant space in Broadway Plaza at 1300 S. Main St., Walnut Creek, CA 94596. The Walnut Creek restaurant joins existing Original Joe’s locations in North Beach, San Francisco and Westlake, Daly City.
John and Elena Duggan, the third-generation brother-and-sister team behind the brand, have had their sights set on the East Bay for many years, deeming it the best next step in their expansion plans. “We always felt the East Bay was the right location for our first venture outside of the city limits, particularly with a strong contingent of San Francisco transplants,” said Co-Owner John Duggan. “It’s truly humbling that Original Joe’s, for over 85 years, has become a cherished home for our customers celebrating milestone moments in their lives. We’re honored and eager to build upon those traditions and spirit of community in Walnut Creek.”
Similar to the two existing Original Joe’s in San Francisco’s North Beach and Daly City’s Westlake neighborhoods, the culinary program in Walnut Creek will focus on nostalgic Italian-American cuisine with an emphasis on simple, comforting, and approachable dishes. Menu staples include long-standing favorites like Chicken Parmigiana, Joe’s Famous Hamburger Sandwich, the signature Joe’s Special, Eggplant Parmigiana, and, of course, Joe’s House Made Ravioli, which have all lived on the menu for decades.
The aesthetics of the Original Joe’s Walnut Creek restaurant will include design elements that make it its own while reflecting the brand’s defining characteristics, including rich woodwork, signature booths, ambient lighting, lively bar and lounge, exhibition kitchen with counter seating, and over 200 seats. With the warmer East Bay weather in mind, outdoor dining will be available, featuring a fireplace, lush greenery, awnings and misters.
A Bay Area favorite since 1937, Original Joe’s has been serving classic, Italian-American fare in an open kitchen for all to see. In the same year the Golden Gate Bridge was built, Original Joe’s was opened by John and Elena Duggan’s grandfather, Tony Rodin, a Croatian immigrant in search of the American dream. What was once a 14-stool counter is now a culinary landmark institution, beloved for making anyone and everyone feel at home. Since its inception, the Original Joe’s brand has developed into a beacon of nostalgia and camaraderie, synonymous with comfortable familiarity, abundant portions, unpretentious ambiance and service, and a rich history serving generations to come.
