Nothing special here for my Thanksgiving Day Dinner at Joe's. Last year, the meal was quite a bit better. True, the service (at the bar) was ample, Derek Z. did a good job. Remembering last year's entree of turkey dinner, today when I gave my order to Derek, I asked for "extra" gravy. My plate was delivered in a reasonable amount of time, but there was no butter for the dinner role and the "extra gravy" did not appear to be "extra." The cranberry was a mere speck in small paper cup, similar to what I'd expect a "sauce" to be delivered in. The turkey, an ample portion, covered a very small "allotment" of stuffing. C'mon!! Stuffing is an intricate part of any Thanksgiving dinner...anywhere. This portion was half of what it should have been. Plenty of peas and mashed potatoes (no gravy on these potatoes) completed the entree. When Derek came by and asked me how my dinner was, I requested some more gravy and he delivered it right away in a cup. My experience was not as good as last year. I'm saying I wasn't pleased that I had to ask for things that should have been there to begin with. Another thing that bothered me was that when I looked at the bill, there was an unspecified extra charge of $1.00. I asked Derek and he looked at it and said it must be for the extra gravy. Well, that amount wasn't going to ruin my life, but it irritated me. $1.00 for extra gravy? Gimme a break. read more

This place is always busy. I feel like you can't go to Santa Barbara without stopping here. Great breakfast and strong drinks. I used to come here for the drinks when I was younger but now I go for the food and service. read more

Stiff stiff drinks and food was good. Nice place with a lot of history. Waiter was good but new...still learning the ropes. Would definitely go back if we are in the area again. Dinner and drinks at Joe's...is a must! read more

Joe's Cafe - Menu - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

The place is beautiful when you walk in. I am sorry but I don't remember our servers name but she was great- paid attention- got more sugar when we ran out and before we could ask. The food was ok- I got the ham steak- it was delicious- the home fries were interesting. Some were over cooked and black- it needed seasoning and my toast was barely buttered. We probably won't go back but our server was the best. read more

You must go to Joe's when visiting Santa Barbara! The food is great, the restaurant has so much history and great bar with a perfect cocktail menu. The location couldn't be better, a delicious spot for breakfast before walking around downtown. Friendly service as well. read more

Not really sure how this place has so many stars. Save your money and time and just go elsewhere. We came for lunch this last weekend as we were walking along State St and seemed like it was bustling. Food menu was diner food which was expected. I ordered the smash burger and my husband got the club sandwich. The waitress never asked me how I wanted my burger (medium, well done, etc). When my burger arrived, the burger and the onions were burned, the cheese wasn't melted somehow, and there was a tiny drop of the "special sauce". It looked so unappetizing. And there were no other fixings on it--no tomato, lettuce, or pickle. It was extremely disappointing. The chicken club was OK but nothing to write home about. For the price we paid, I really expected more out of this meal. Service was lacking as well, though they seemed understaffed. I would just head somewhere else next time when looking for a fulfilling meal and this price point. read more

Such a cute place. Food is nice too. Hubby & I ordered the Wednesday special for the stuffed chicken which was yummy. Stuffed with cheese and spinach with a touch of citrus. Nice crust on the outside. I loved that the butter with bread was not cold like some other restaurants serve. Nice waiter too. read more

See all

In town for the weekend and planned on going to Dawn Patrol but ran into Joe's Cafe first since it was on the corner and decided we were too hungry to walk the extra steps so we put our name down! On a Saturday morning 11/30/19 around 10am we were seated in 15 minutes. It's a lovely kind of old school diner vibe but the string lights and dark wood enhanced it to be nice and homey atmosphere. The three of us sat down and each ordered the All-American breakfast. You have a choice of ham, bacon, or sausage, egg your way, choice of toast, and hash browns, breakfast potatoes, or grits. I got bacon, my egg over easy, hash browns and sourdough toast. Immediately I was impressed by the hash browns. At most breakfast spots the top layer is crispy and then the other shaved potato pieces lie wet and limp under that first layer. The hash browns here were super crispy but not burnt, and held together. Eggs were made with butter and had a strong flavor of butter. Bacon was a generous portion of 4, with crispy parts and chewy parts. Bread was pre buttered! I would've liked a little more on the side. Overall food was decent and the experience was good. No frills, you get what you pay for meal. The meal satisfied but wasn't terribly memorable for me. I'd like to try something different like pancakes or a breakfast burrito next time that may sway my opinion! read more

Joe's Cafe - Interior - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Breakfast: breakfast sandwich and oatmeal with fruit. All food came room temp. Tasted good. Oatmeal came plain with choice of fruit but no other accompaniments. Loved the atmosphere and service but food was so-so. A little disappointed. read more

Joe's Cafe - Mimosa - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Joes cafe is off state street with excellent breakfast choices. Just be there before 11:20. Out side dining allows to take in the action of biking and skaters down the street. Would like to see the outdoor area pressure washed to give a more fresh ambience. But all of state street could use a regular wash down. read more

Have been going to joes since a child.... Last couple years it's been very disappointing!!! Bathroom is hideous no tp paper towels all over the floor and dirty! Yuk The food is sub par, and ordered bread salsa which used to come with every table now charged ordered and it never came and waiter said they were out of salsa!!!!! Whaaaaat.... And doesn't check back when food delivered and the only thing the same is how strong the cocktails are!!!! Thank goodness.... But will not be returning regularly like we used to! Sorry Gene!!!!! read more

Great ambiance, service, and yummy food! Cool looking bar and decor throughout. Love the history behind this cafe. read more

See all

Great America food, adequate quantities and a fun atmosphere. Server was very attentive.

Finally I had chance to go back to this legendary place downtown SB!! And still amazing as always!! Service was great food was good, specially that truffle Mac and cheese, always sharing our plates, we got fish and fish and the Mac and cheese, awww so delicious. Will definitely go back on another lunch break!! read more

See all

This wasn't expect but I did enjoy the smash burger. It really wasn't a smash burger since it looked like a double meat bacon burger. But nonetheless it was very juicy, meaty, and flavorful. I ordered the sweet potato fries which were pretty good. It was slightly over fried and it didn't taste completely freshly hand cut. Yet, it was very much welcomed on the plate coupled with ranch dressing. The margarita was the best ever! As it promises, Joe's let's you know the spike is up front and center as it was for this drink. It's stronger than most restaurants but balanced perfectly. I would have preferred a bit more of tang to it, but definitely one of the best margaritas I've had. I also tried their fried onion rings. Very good indeed!!! The batter was light and held up against the onions. Next burger, I'll get that as my side instead. Joe's you did A-Ok in burgerville! read more

Joe's Cafe - Smash burger with sweet potato fries. - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

The service was SO slow, the server was inattentive and the food was mid at best. Would not eat there again.

We had the Cuban sandwich. A bowl of chili. Meatball sandwich. Cornbread. Everything was delicious and hot. It was such great comfort. Holly took such good care of us and made sure we had everything we needed. The iced tea is really good also. The room is not too loud so we could hear one another. The twinkle lights are lovely. There is a bar although none of us drank anything. read more

We were actually planning on going to Dawn Patrol nearby for breakfast, but had a hell of a time finding it so we decided to give Joe's Cafe a try. Good option! The place is situated on corner of State St. and Cota in downtown SB. There's public parking nearby which is free for first 90 minutes. The first thing that I noticed while walking in was how pleasantly appealing restaurant was. Love the old school charm. A mix of pressed tin ceiling, dark wood floors/booths, red and white checkered table clothes, historic black/white photos and cool juke box. The double bar in center of the restaurant is huge. We had the omaha steak and eggs which was fabulous and not too bad for $12.50 price tag. The steak and eggs were cooked to perfection. Fresh salsa elevates my eggs nicely. Portions were more than enough. Even the coffee was solid. Our meal were served with a choice of Joe's potatoes, hash brown, or grits with toast. I thought the Joe's potatoes was okay. I think minimal seasoning threw it off, but might be perfect for others. Overall, great food, friendly service and decent prices here. I'm glad this place is around and will definitely come back when I'm in the area. read more

Joe's Cafe - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Absolutely best experience! Food was delicious, service was fast and pleasant and they provide plenty of options with a full bar to top it off! My partner and I enjoyed the spicy chicken sandwich and grilled chicken with tomato and mozzarella. Definitely will be returning and referring others! read more

See all

Super old-fashioned place. Red/white checkered tablecloths, dark wooden furniture, crown molding, all the bells and whistles. But they're authentically old-fashioned; this is the oldest cafe in Santa Barbara after all. Joe's doesn't really specialize in one menu item or have a standout dish; I could name a bunch of other restaurants that have better fish & chips, steaks, sandwiches, or pastas. But it's a safe choice for groups, especially if you have friends who are very particular about their food. I went ahead and ordered the Pacific Salmon, wild-caught. The piece was a decent size, but feels small compared to the price tag ($27). Gently charred on the outside, and buttery on the inside. Each bite was honestly devine, I went to a fish grill restaurant recently and Joe's salmon blew that one out of the water. The dish is served with a scoop of almond rice, which was just as tasty. And I enjoyed the medley of vegetables on the side, like carrots, broccoli, and other greens. There's also a lemon slice to squeeze over your fish, because the salmon won't be complete without it. My friend got a Caesar Salad, which had all the classic ingredients like romaine lettuce, dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese. Chicken is $2 additional if you want a bit of protein. They wanted something a little light, and this was perfect for them. I've been hearing many positive remarks regarding their breakfast, I'll have to come by in the morning to see for myself! read more

Joe's Cafe - Wild-Caught Pacific Salmon w/ Dill Butter & Almond Rice ⋅ State Street - Santa Barbara, California - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I'm very picky about my coffee and eggs, this place exceeded my expectations, Juan is very friendly and patient especially we came with our 4 kids! We decided to stay for desert rather than going to another spot in SB! You definitely don't want to miss out on good food, great coffee and as a bonus a full bar if you're on vacation and not driving! read more

Took my family out for a nice lunch at Joe's Cafe. We were seated within 20 minutes of arrival without any reservations on their outside dining to accomodate my dog. I love how they are really dog-friendly and they even have a dedicated food/water bowl for their four-legged guests. Also, you can order a side of chicken or a side of burger for your dog/cat in case you want them to join you for a meal. The inside of the cafe looks great! The environment and the ambience feels very homey. I surely wish that we could experience eating inside on our next visit. Also, the outside table was too small for 5 people to be eating on. Staff is friendly and you could tell that she's trying her best. The service wasn't that bad but there is a lot of room for improvement. Our appetizers came after the main course have been served and consumed halfway which is not cool. Condiments and utensils are also not readily available. Food is great, not gonna lie. Although quite expensive for its serving size, I highly recommend trying their crab cakes - very delicious and creamy! Meat Loaf was also good as well as their 1/2 Jidori Chicken. read more

See all

Cocktails anyone? Joe's is known for stiff drinks. Yet, this was my first time actually dining and eating food here. I ordered the Meatball marinara sandwich and switched out the fries for mashed potatoes. Yum! Savory Comfort Food after a night out on the town with friends. Surprised the service was so attentive and enjoyed the outdoor patio area on State Street under twinkling lights. Delicious meal. Do plan for $25-$28 per entree and drinks are about $12-$15. Meal portions were enough for leftovers to take home or Come hungry. read more

Joe's Cafe - Meatball marinara sandwich and mashed potatoes. - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Good drinks and affordable meals. Wait staff is always friendly and courteous. Been a favorite for after dinner drinks with friends.

Good and decent sized bowl of clam chowder. Service was all right. Tasty Joe's bad ass blonde.

Food was cold, order wrong . Waiter in a dirty shirt really bad experience. Stake was cold because they've waited for a toast to cook! read more

Joe's Cafe - Egg Sandwich send back once second one! No taste - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I wanted to pick up my birthday drink from Starbucks and noticed on the map that this place was right across the street. So, I checked out what people had to say on Yelp, checked out their menu, and decided to have breakfast there before going to Starbucks. This place is great! I love it when restaurants are able to stand up to the changing restaurant trends and stick to what they know and love. Here, it's just straight up good food and friendly service. We shared the Joe's omelette, and it was really good. Nothing fancy to it, and it fed us just fine. I picked grits and toast for my side. Omg I have had grits in forever! So good! Coffee cups don't go empty here either. Staff kept coming by to check on us to see if we needed anything. We got there around 9am or so, which seems to be just the right time. We got seated right away! When we were done, the line was around the corner. So glad we beat the breakfast rush. I would've been hangry! Really glad I got to check this place out before leaving SB. I hope they're still around on my next visit. read more

Great ambience in this place. I only had the blackberry pie. It was delicious. The service was excellent. I went for coffee and pie . read more

Joe's Cafe - Front of the inside - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Stopped in for a convenient breakfast as it was super accessible for our hotel. We were greeted and seated immediately which was nice! Our server was super kind and SUPER attentive. To the point where I was like "woah is it normal to be checked on this much?" I mean GENUINELY checked on. My partner and I then realized that THIS is what the service industry used to look like. You used to be able to walk in to a restaurant and be treated like family. Like you were actually important. It's sad that the service industry has changed so much to the point where when you get good QUALITY service you're confused. I am super bummed I didn't catch our servers name, but if management is reading this we were on the left side of the restaurant and our server was a kind "seasoned service veteran" with short red hair and STELLAR eyeshadow. I hope this description makes sense because I would really like to thank her for her service and kindness. She was a highlight of our trip!!!! The only reason I give it 4 stars is because eating inside of an establishment with a non service animal roaming the table next to me wasn't for me. I am 1,000% dog friendly and love when places allow people to bring their fur babies,however it is a personal opinion of mine that pets should be kept to patio only. read more

Came here for breakfast after church & loved the atmosphere! Started off at the bar but my dress made us have to move to a booth (thanks to the nice man letting me know of my unfortunate exposure! ) Corned beef & hash browns, grits, side of bacon, Bloody Mary - so much food tried a little bit of everything and all was good. Took a fun picture with bartender Derek! Good times. read more

See all

One of the oldest, if not THE oldest cafe in sunny Santa Barbara. Because of this my expectations were high going in. It is so unfortunate that I am writing this only giving it 3 stars. The customer service was excellent and the workers were very sweet. But the food was unfortunately not:( I asked for my meat to be medium rare and my eggs to be over hard, instead I got well done meat and raw eggs. It was not just over easy, the whites were still undercooked. Also everything else was just overall very plain. It's a pretty average price, but the food is not worth it. read more

See all

What a horrible service. We waited for a long time for someone to acknowledge our table, to take an order, to refill water. And water smells bad. Not sure I will ever come here again read more

Ate here before seeing a movie. Good food and share a pie a La mode for dessert! You won't regret it. Good service, too. I accidentally forgot my phone and when my husband came back to get it, they were charging it for me! read more

Joe's Cafe - Cherry Pie a la mode! Soooo warm and good... - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Good food - we've tried the Beef Brisket which was slow cooked and delicious. Side fries were below average. Excellent service with very attentive staff Plus: Has outdoor seating on State Street read more

Joe's Cafe - Beef Brisket with baked potatoes, onion and carrots - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Wandering on State Street and Joe's Cafe caught our eye. It's the oldest restaurant in Santa Barbara (1928) and it's oozing with charm. It's an old-school Italian joint with hanging decorative lights, checkered table cloths and all. It was crowded, but we didn't have to wait. The ambiance was buzzing and lively. Started off with calamari and steak bites. Both were excellent - the calamari was tender, not rubbery in the slightest. We all had pasta for dinner and ended our meal with a couple of flavors of gelato. The gelato was a real highlight and is absolutely recommended. Joe's has good food, good service and decent prices for what you get. That combined with the lively atmosphere made it a truly memorable night out. read more

Joe's Cafe - Dinner at Joe's Cafe! - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

This place is still fantastic. I haven't been here since the 90's when I used to go to Santa Barbara more often. And even though it's coveted 19 they have lovely outside tables and fantastic service. The drinks are still outstanding and strong. had a calamari appetizer that was excellent as well. Saw some daily specials of people eating dinner but wasn't quite ready for it. I definitely would stop in here for a meal or a drink or both. The restrooms are clean and I'm not sure about parking since it's right on State Street and the street is closed for cars which is nice because everyone on State Street has put up an outside dining area. read more

Joe's Cafe - Lovely gin and tonic - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

The good Our red headed bang toting server was the sweetest. Ordered the American breakfast that came with two eggs, hash browns, sausage and 1 piece of sourdough toast for $17.50 Hashbrowns came as a 4x3 square precooked ( maybe hours before) geasy mess. Sausage I could not eat due to its poor fatty quality. Tasted like biting into lard. Soughdough was poor quality and tastless. Walked by open kitchen and was appalled at filth on floor and counters at 10am on a Monday. Really? Do not waste your money here. A big disappointment. As a bonus . Two trips to bathroom within 20 minutes of eating there. Do better proprietor . read more

A very nice spot in Santa Barbara to visit and have a meal. Came in on Sunday 5-23-21 around 6pm. This was my first time visiting Santa Barbara and of course this location. The food was pretty good, I ordered the Spicy Shrimp with a side of Onion Rings. My only critique of the shrimp is that you get 5. The shrimp and onion rings were good. Our server was Adam and he was nice, professional and took care of us that evening. Looking forward to returning and trying other things on the menu. read more

Joe's Cafe - Spicy Shrimp - American Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

I was visiting friends in Santa Barbara and I took their daughter (my niece) who was back home from college 3 days in a row. Why? Because the breakfasts were awesome with lovely service and atmosphere. I had the Challah French toast and fruit and my niece had the oatmeal and a side of scrambled eggs cooked with oil as she requires dairy free. Another day I had an egg white scramble w mushrooms, tomato, spinach and cheese w perfectly cooked home fries and wheat toast. My niece had the avocado toast. Each day we also had a large glass of fresh squeezed OJ. The wait staff is charming and aim to please. I always think it's hard to ruin breakfast but so many places actually do. Joe's was excellent each time. Comfy booths too. I highly recommend. read more

It's common for restaurants to "go downhill," especially when times are tough and cutting costs becomes important. But this one was fallen off a cliff. Horrendous food and service. At 11 AM, my wife and I were shown an extremely limited breakfast menu, almost all of which is eggs and meat. "When can I order from a lunch menu?" Get this, and I triple-checked to make sure I didn't misunderstand: After ALL the breakfasts are sold, then half an hour later, to give the kitchen staff a chance to transition from breakfast to lunch. Not a molecule of food served from 12 noon to 12:30 PM. Been in business since 1928. Even given its incredible location, I'll be shocked if it sees its centennial. read more