Joe's Cafe
American restaurant · Lower State ·

Joe's Cafe

American restaurant · Lower State ·

American favorites with a modern twist since 1928

stiff drinks
old school diner vibe
great service
steak sandwich
prime rib
friendly staff
breakfast
smash burger
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null
Joe's Cafe by null

Information

536 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Get directions

$20–30

Order delivery
See Menu
Restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Dinner reservations recommended

Information

Static Map

536 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Get directions

+1 805 966 4638
joescafesb.com
@joescafesb

$20–30 · Menu

Features

•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Dinner reservations recommended
•Cozy
•Trendy
•Family friendly

Last updated

Jan 17, 2026

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A Fresh Santa Barbara Guide to New and Old-School Restaurants | Eater LA

"A longtime diner opened in 1928 on a central Downtown Santa Barbara corner, opening at 7:30 a.m. for pancakes, omelettes, and huevos rancheros; breakfast runs until 11 a.m. For lunch and dinner, offerings include the classic Cobb salad, lasagna or ravioli, a New York steak with garlic butter, an open-faced tri-tip sandwich, and rotating daily specials such as beef stroganoff, pot pies, and chile rellenos. Cocktails are available at all times of day." - Mona Holmes

https://la.eater.com/los-angeles-guides/286503/santa-barbara-old-new-restaurant-guide-central-coast-california
Joe's Cafe

Carlos V.

Google
Great place to eat. Very nice place and service. Daniel provide an incredible service, he was super friendly. The other guys that brought water were super friendly also. The food is incredible. I highly recommend this place.

Mandy C.

Google
Stopped in TWICE during my recent trip to Santa Barbara. The clam chowder was wonderful but I wasn’t a fan of the bread and salsa. The espresso martinis were a little too good!! The server and bartender were wonderful. Loved the atmosphere. Will definitely come back if ever in the area again!!

Michael Livers (.

Google
Heard about this place at our local sea side motel. Strong drinks is what they said. It was true…. Got in quick. Staff was awesome. Our waitress was very friendly and helpful. Food was amazing. Best corn beef ever. So good. The salsa was amazing. I would recommend yes! Keep it up.

Six Four S.

Google
Breakfast at Joe’s Stopped in for breakfast at Joe’s and tried the All American—2 eggs, bacon, hash browns, and toast. Also had the Pancake Sandwich, which came with 2 pancakes, bacon, and eggs. We ordered orange juice too—it tasted hand-squeezed, which was a nice touch. Food came out warm (not quite hot), and the portions were on the smaller side, but still satisfying. Prices were reasonable for what you get. Big shout out to Juan, our server—super polite and friendly, made the experience better.

Roz A.

Google
Found this hidden gem before going back to reality. I called Joe’s Cafe and spoke with Erin the manager was able to make a reservation with no wait. Excellent service, food, and great atmosphere! The steak and eggs were delicious! A must try if visiting Santa Barbara.

Amelia T

Google
Great food great service! Came on a Saturday afternoon for lunch. Crab salad sandwich was great, and the Diablo dip was a group favorite! Pies looked super delicious and were steaming hot. Recommend Joe’s cafe if you are in the area!

Michael H.

Google
Reason for visiting: dinner; in town for my friend's wedding Date/time of visit: Thursday night, ~6:30 PM Parking: parked at hotel but there's street parking and parking lots around; don't think there's any free parking. No parking for restaurant specifically Party size: ~12; ~4 5 kids/teens Environment/ambience: we had a large party so there was a short wait. We stayed at the Hotel Santa Barbara so Joe's was right across; pretty convenient if you get a little tipsy 😀. TVs around so was able to catch the NBA Finals Game 6; no sound though. Small bar area. Bathroom was clean. Old school Italian place; I was waiting for the hitmen to come through the front door 😀Streets were blocked off so easy to walk around but harder to park. Lots of one way streets around so be careful. Service: was good; he came around often. Orders were all correct, no mistakes. Friendly. Drinks were a little slow at the start but everything was good; they made up for it with the heavy pours 😀 Drinks were strong Food: had the garlic bread, cheeseburger, onion rings (side of thousand island), and old fashioned. Everything was good; cooked as ordered. Cost: $450, including tip Would I go back (yes/no): 80/20; higher if staying at Hotel Santa Barbara but parking seems difficult

Анна Т.

Google
Absolutely the best pasta I’ve ever had in my life! If I could give this place 10 stars, I would. It was my first time here, but it has instantly become my favorite restaurant. Huge thanks to the team for the amazing care and hard work — you’ve truly made my day!💕
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Payge B.

Yelp
5 stars because I've been eating at joes for 2 decades now and they deserve the love. I would hate to tank their rating based on one experience. Sadly though our experience tonight was pretty bad. The food has never been perfect, we come for the atmosphere and drinks. But it's always been at least edible and comforting. We were starving so we forced down the meatloaf and Alfredo. They just tasted bad. They weren't super busy or in the weeds it was just mediocre at best. New kitchen staff perhaps? The Alfredo which used to be decent was watery and sour. My husband's meatloaf came cold and tasted off. We each ate half our plates simply cause we were starving but each bite was worse and worse. The server, while a kind gentleman who has always provided great service was having an off night perhaps, never checked in with us till it came time for the bill. I know I could have flagged him down I just would have felt rude doing that. I ended up eating all the saltine crackers to fill up cause I couldn't stand another bite. To be honest, even if he did check in I'd probably feel too awkward to say the food was bad. Both of us having worked in restaurants, we don't like to be "those customers". It's just such a bummer with the cost of living in SB to spend a whole days salary on food that left a sour taste and not feel waited on. I hope this was an off night and not management cutting corners with food quality. I would hate to lose Joe's as my go to restaurant, I live 2 blocks away. But I'm apprehensive to come back and waste money if the food continues to be like that.
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Jenn M.

Yelp
Joe's is known for its strong cocktails and fun bar vibe but let's talk breakfast at Joe's! I think it's one of the best breakfasts in Santa Barbara. Great food, decent portions and legendary environment. Now, if you like pie for breakfast (I'm not a pie fan), they have fresh pies everyday. My pie friends tell me it's great. I usually get The Champion, avocado toast with eggs, bacon and chile flakes-salsa on the side. Today I mixed it up today with the smoked salmon amd poached eggs with grits. Yum! This is a spot for locals and visitors alike.
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Alex K.

Yelp
It's been a while since we were last here. I do remembered they offer breakfast which we were originally interested in but when we arrived, there was a sign posted that breakfast was finished and lunch was being served. Oh well... We ended up staying for lunch instead and got seated on the patio. Downtown Santa Barbara has changed since we were last here. The restaurant use to utilize some of the street for outdoor dining but there's now a new walkway that takes over that area. It did take a while for our waiter to come to us even the hosts (gentlemen who seated us) asked if we've been helped yet. He was gracious and brought out some water which was nice. After a bit the waiter did come out to take our order. Menu wise, it's still the same from last visit. Even though breakfast was over, mimosas was still good. Mini bottles of bubbly was served with a mini carafe of orange juice. I remembered the onion rings last time and that they were good. So that was a must with the meal. It's was a mixture of everything for our table. The Cobb salad which portion wise was nice and big. You have everything in it, nice chunks of blue cheese, eggs, bacon, turkey, tomatoes and a nice potion of avocado. The salmon salad was also a nice option. Petty big size of salmon on top a bed of mixed green. The fried chicken sandwich with a side of sweet potatoes fries and chicken quesadillas. Sandwich was great, nice big chicken battered and cooked perfectly. Quesadillas on the other hand, it was whatever. Nothing really major to rave about. Had to ask for some salsa to accompany it. Then the onion rings. From what I've seen with other tables ordering it, it looked great. And i remembered last time. When ours arrived, it was overcooked. And not only that, cold to the touch. Seemed like it was made in a huge batch and left there till someone ordered it. I don't like sending anything back but we asked one of the waiter if they could just replace it with something hotter. He was kind of hesitant at first. Asked if I wanted them heated up in the microwave which I said no. And asked if it was possible to get another order. From what I've seen coming out, our batch was a disappointment. Maybe a minute later, he brought out the onion rings which was exactly the same thing we originally had. They must had just threw it in the microwave.... Oh well, guess they didn't care to make customer happy. Anyways, we still munched on them as it was being paid for. Food, some of the dishes were good. Service, it was nice. Staff were friendly. Overall, we would have like to have breakfast but now know that there's a cutoff time. Didn't want to be a nag but the onion rings situation could have been dealt better but it's whatever. Didn't want to complain as it didn't affect our other meal but it could have been better.
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Tracy A.

Yelp
Stopped in for lunch at Joe's. My server was very friendly and attentive. I sat out on the patio and watched people walking up and down State Street. I had a really good old fashion and a hearty salad. The salad was really good and filling, couldn't finish it all. I would stop into Joe's again.
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Stephanie L.

Yelp
Joe's Café in Santa Barbara is one of those rare places that becomes an icon in the memories of countless people. It's been around for God knows how long and has so many people that worked there that have stayed with the place for many many years. It adds to the allure of it, the history, The memories, and just the overall experience. It's a really casual dining spot in Santa Barbara, but somehow their bar feels super Lux and classy in its own way. The red and white checkered tablecloths are sweet and just so representative of the place. We have a lot of memories here over the years from late nights and night caps to brunch or lunch. Anytime of day, Joe's is the answer. Lots of memories to be had here and lots of great service. You'll always find it busy and bustling it's just a magnet.
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Rose L.

Yelp
Fun staff and interior but the food was okay at best. We got the Cuban and the all day breakfast. There was a strange after taste with the eggs but the toast and butter were great. French fries were nice too. My partner enjoyed the Cuban. The total ran us about $46 which was slightly pricey but well worth the ambiance. The thing that irked me the most was the water cups, it smelled like dog for some reason, therefore was slightly off putting to drink and get refills. Otherwise a decent experience.
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Michael F.

Yelp
Gio was our waiter and was excellent. Bacon, eggs, hashed browns and sourdough toast with a large OJ. Everything cooked perfectly and hot.
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Nicole B.

Yelp
No thanks. The server was beyond slow. Then brought me a completely wrong sandwich. I only came to this restaurant for a crab sandwich. The bread was toasted, but the filling was ice cold. I was sitting on the patio. There was a man smoking while playing music on a speaker AND picking fleas off his dog. French Fries were the best part, although I never got the ranch I ordered.
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Bryan A.

Yelp
I want to give this place a horrible review because of the service but I can't because the food was so damn good! A large group of us decided to eat here on our way home from a road trip to Pismo. When we walked in we waited at the host counter only to be greeted with a "what do you want". I thought the host was just trying to be funny but I realized he wasn't when I replied "to eat" and he just gave me a blank look. After waiting a few, uncomfortable, moments he begrudgingly took us to a booth. When we sat we debated leaving but a few of us were too hungry so we stayed. We ordered a good amount of food and we all liked our dishes. Especially my Chicken Alfredo, I still have cravings and seriously consider driving back there and be treated poorly just for that dish. Mmmmm!
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Michael P.

Yelp
Chile rellano Monday special. Large menu, full bar. Classic SB decor, cozy, dark wood booths and a bright well lit room. Busy staff, friendly hostess.
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Anna T.

Yelp
Absolutely the best pasta I've ever had in my life! If I could give this place 10 stars, I would. It was my first time here, but it has instantly become my favorite restaurant. Huge thanks to the team for the amazing care and hard work -- you've truly made my day!
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Phoebe C.

Yelp
A classic SB staple in downtown area. If you're looking for a hefty Italian meal this is your go-to place with strong cocktails! It can get busy after 7 so there could be a wait time but no reservations accepted. There is plenty of seating and the service is excellent. Love the upscale diner style interior!
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Elaine D.

Yelp
Great location, lots of table and friendly staff, was seated right away. Hubby just had root canal and needed something soft to eat. He ordered the Open face turkey plate, he thought is was a bit bland but the portions were large and they brought him extra gravy ...I liked it but it did need some salt and pepper. i ordered the potato skins (big mistake) they were horrible, tasted old and dry...the worst I have ever had. That is why only 3 stars. Place was packed and the meals that I saw looked good, so just a bad night for potato skins I guess
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Angela R.

Yelp
Joe's Cafe is your classic historical restaurant that has stood the test of time since 1928. It's definitely a staple here in town and known for their stiff drinks. My friends love coming here whenever there's an event happening in town and we always meet up for breakfast. The ambiance here is dated, but with a classic old school feel. It's pretty loud and busy here, so if you're looking for a nice chill place to dine at, then this isn't the spot. They do offer table seating outside though, and the view is great if you want to people watch on State Street. The service is always great here, but a little slow depending on how busy it is. For my order, I usually gravitate towards the All American breakfast. This comes with two eggs, bacon, sausage or ham, home fries or hash browns and a side of toast. When my plate was served, it only had one slice of toast! I quickly pointed it out to the waiter, and he was kind enough to bring me the rest of my bread. If you plan on ordering a mixed cocktail here, then expect it to be extra heavy handed! You have been warned. I recommend asking them to make it on the lighter side if your liver can't handle it. Overall, this place is a piece of history in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara and one that I do like coming to on occasion.

Rebecca S.

Yelp
Well we're back! Decided to take a drive just to get out of the house and away from the heat. Plan was to come again to Joe's Cafe for breakfast then walk around town. Server is very friendly. Husband ordered the same breakfast as the last time we stopped. Me, decided on pancakes. I asked if they were buttermilk. I was told they were. I didn't think they tasted like it. But they were ok. Next time going to try the Chilaquiles Divorciados
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Raymond L.

Yelp
It's a 50's diner, from the decor, the uniforms, and the background music. The bacon is actually cooked TO ORDER (a rarity these days) and great (strong) coffee. Great complements to otherwise good food (huge breakfast variety) and friendly servers.
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Ashley C.

Yelp
The food here was pretty mid but I've since learned that this is not really a place to go for dinner lol The food wasn't terrible but prices are definitely not worth the food quality. I've heard they make up for it in how strong their drinks are but I don't really drink, so I don't think I'll come back. Service was sparse, as well, so we waited a long time for our food and then it came out with wrong items. Restaurant was pretty empty when we were there around 7pm on a Sunday.
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Cleo M.

Yelp
Service- Honestly, the wait wasn't worth it. We got here around 11:20, and were promised 11:45. We weren't seated until 12:00. I've never wait this long to sit inside a restaurant. When we walked in there was plenty of booths and tables open, but they made guests wait outside. Food- The food was pretty alright, it wasn't life changing to the point where I would return again. We ordered the Fettuccine Alfredo which is basic, but we wanted a simple dish to compare to other places we've been too. I understand they may not be known for their pasta, but waiting long to even enter the restaurant made it seem that way. Ambiance- The ambiance was good, there's plenty of seating inside. There's a bar area, if people are dining for cocktails or just want to chill. As far as the service, lady was super sweet and did her best. We sat at a booth which was nice because it was enough room for five people. The menu underneath the glass table was a nice touch. Overall, very pricey for a diner quality food, but nothing to miss here especially with better options around state street and surrounding areas.
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Theresa G.

Yelp
Old world vibe with a beautiful diner ans bar setting and a drape of lights that meet in the middle. Service was fast and smooth. We came in on a Monday. My friend was sick and ordered a hot Toddy and instantly the waiter knew what she was talking about. Strong black coffee and great portions as well as prices. The waffle with fruit was filling and delish as well as the eggs and pancakes. Most def a place to get breakfast when in Santa Barbara. :)
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Gracie G.

Yelp
Growing up in SB we would always either start the night at Joe's for the drinks or end the night for the late night food. We popped in there the other night, because i've been craving a good Cosmo. Joe's did not disappoint! They pour you your martini and also a little side kick. The stack of onion rings was a delight. And i love their salsa and bread. It was a great way to end the night!

Sofia C.

Yelp
Always good food and great service. This time we had the roasted chicken and fish and chips. Chicken was tender and flavorful. Fish and chips was not greasy at all.
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Raúl R.

Yelp
Stopped for breakfast on our way to Santa Maria. Service was great friendly, helpful and attentive. We didn't wait to long to get our food. I tried their bacon and eggs and it was pretty good. I wanted to try their pancakes but those were a bit of a disappointment I would give this place 4.5 starts. There is indoor and outdoor seating. The music they played was good and had tv so you can watch sports.
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Sasha A.

Yelp
This omelet revived me from a long night out, and dang it tasted soooo good. The generosity with the avocado was much appreciated! The biscuits and gravy were also well proportioned. The best part of Joe's though, was the service! Our waitress was so welcoming, kind, and efficient. I definitely will be returning to this classic themed restaurant next time I'm in SB!
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Randall E.

Yelp
This must have been a happening restaurant back in the day. I have been there several times, but this last visit will be my last. Overrated, and not very good food! I ordered a Turkey Burger, and it looked like a well done piece of wallet when served. The salad was eatable but nothing to write home about. The waiters all wore fancy uniforms, and were nice. Yikes! These people are riding on an old established eatery, but doesn't hold up!
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Victor R.

Yelp
The food was good but the fries got cold and didn't taste good after that but everything was amazing. imma season type of guy but some plates needed more of that but that just mine opinion
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Athena N.

Yelp
We went into Joe's Cafe at 9AM on Saturday morning. The host was clearly uninterested in her job. Despite there being open tables, she acted like it was an inconvenience for us to ask to be seated. They don't provide menus, which made ordering more difficult. Our food took 45 minutes to arrive, possibly because there was a large party of 12 before us. The food tasted good overall, but the home fries had a soapy taste. The restaurant was somewhat dirty, and the prices were high for the quality and experience. However, the waitress provided good service.
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Kris A.

Yelp
We went to Joes cafe for lunch and it did not dissapoint. We had the smash burger, roast beef dip sandwich and the prime rib dinner. The food was delicious, the service was great and the restaurant was very clean. We highly recommend this place.
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A L.

Yelp
This is a busy restaurant on a Saturday night and very loud too. But we didn't have to wait for a table when we walked in around 7.30pm. I noticed that most people were mainly by the bar having drinks. Food was average but drinks were good. Service was friendly and pretty good for a busy night. By about 9.30, they had cleared out some of the tables to allow people to stand around in groups so it seemed more like a bar then. I don't think I'll be returning to eat there but maybe just for drinks
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Giselle N.

Yelp
The food was very good. It is our go to breakfast cafe when we are visiting Santa Barbara. The service was really phenomenal . Our waiter, Eric was amazing. It is a really cool older cafe (since 1929) and the ambiance is really nice. The have a beautiful bar there as well.

M M.

Yelp
Ambiance was amazing! The Philly Cheese steak was awesome! Great martinis and just a great overall vibe. Took our kid there for parents weekend at UCSB and we had a perfect time!!!
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Jason S.

Yelp
Sooo. Was passing through Santa Barbara on a Friday evening with my better half. We live in Ventura, but felt like trying something new... so why not downtown state street. The sun was still up but it was about that time. As it neared dark, we have walked most of downtown state street and landed at Joes. Tbh, joes wasn't our first choice, but service was lacking at our first choice. Anyways, we were pleased on our choice. From the outside, you'd never know how lively it is inside. The staff all were friendly and engaging as were the guests. It was a Friday evening and there some lubed youngens, but all were having a blast! For dinner, I almost went with the special pot pie, but opted for the Cuban sandwich. I give it a solid B. Nothing really wrong with it, but may or may not get it again should I return. 4 stars for the service and atmosphere. Better tasting food or anything else over the top would have earned the 5th. I'd return and recommend a friend to try.
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Kim R.

Yelp
Joe's has been a SB favorite forever, since 1928! I have many, many fond memories coming here over the decades with family and friends. Joe's used to be located in the building just to the right on State of where it currently sits. It moved to the corner location in 1985, and then was later bought and is still run by the Montesanos (Lucky steakhouse, jeans, etc.). The Montesanos did a nice job of maintaining the original, old school diner vibe, while upscaling it a tad. You will find the same cozy booths, checkered tablecloths, high and meticulously crafted ceiling, impeccable service, stiff drinks (not as ridiculous as Harry's), diverse menu (steaks, pasta, hot sandwiches, dips, prime rib, etc.), with a touch more refinement (and higher prices) than in years past. Lower State was considered downright sketchy back in the 60s and 70s, and older restaurants (are there any others left?) have necessarily upped their game with the times and increased tourism. This latest occasion was for my birthday with family after a movie. We were seated immediately as it was relatively early. My wife and I ordered a couple of drinks - an aperol spritz type thing and a Mai Tai (it's my birthday after all!). We started with some nice sourdough bread and salsa, which may sound odd, but used to be delivered to the table without asking - it's an old habit. We ordered two sirloin steak sandwiches, braised beef ravioli and a burger. I love the steak sandwich - it's a manageable and tasty piece of meat, perfectly cooked with a nice portion of salad (blue cheese please), fries and a couple of onion rings, reasonably priced. The fries are nicely cooked and tasted super fresh IMO. The side salad is chopped iceberg with shredded carrots and croutons. The ravioli was a good portion and delicious. Burger ok, perhaps a touch dry. We finished with some house-made cherry pie and ice cream. We were happy campers. If you are looking for mind boggling culinary creativity or uber-crafty cocktails, look elsewhere; Joe's Cafe is simple, comfortable fare, stiff drinks, great service, a fun crowd and a cozy environment that has not changed much in the 50+ years I have been coming here and the nearly 100 years it has been in existence. Long live!

Agg N.

Yelp
I just had a turkey burger there the bun was literally a quarter inch thick and flattened completely with saturated liquid from the condiments and the french fries were completely crispy and burned I don't think I'll be back again... sorry for the bad review but unfortunately a turkey burger something totally easy to put on a fresh bun and this bun was like completely saturated and old sorry for you.. Local residents.

K S.

Yelp
Food was good as always but the service was terribly disappointing. We were a table of 7 to be fair. Took over 30 minutes before they took our order. We had to beg for drink refills. And the worst was 5 orders cam out and 2 did not. And when they did, after asking twice where they were. The two plates came out after everyone had finished their meal. No apologies. They did offer a dessert as a mea culpa but that was after we declined any dessert when offered by our waitress to close out the meal. Felt tone def the situation. Sadly we will not be coming back because of this experience. Also when asked if we could push two tables together to sit outside the request was denied. They said that was not allowed on the street as if it were a rule. But funny we had done that twice on already on State St at other restaurants so it was all just so unaccomodating and did not feel friendly at all. Will not be going here again.
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Jim M.

Yelp
Went there on a Wednesday morning about 10:30. We got served by a very nice hostess. The waitress seemed to be annoyed that most of our party of 4 was deaf. By the time she took me order she seemed pissed off. Food came out in two orders about 5 minutes apart. Read this only one waffle maker. The rest of the food was over cooked. Sorry to report that a place that has been I business as long as they have, could not get it right. Will be eating elsewhere
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Delia N.

Yelp
Unbelievably unprofessional and no regards for making things right. Place was empty upon arrival, placed our order and was waiting for over half an hour. Server never checked in on us or to explain why it hadn't arrived. Spoke to hostess and once Manager got to us the food had still not gotten to us. Left without our food!!!! Disappointed and very unprofessional!!!
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Twitch R.

Yelp
I think the server had better things to do than his job. It felt like we were a chore for him. Better service = better tips. Overall it was old school inside. Perhaps a little dark feeling. Was offered toast and it never arrived. When asking if the sausage was pork, had a deer in the headlights look. Asked for a bowl of fruit, and they took sooo long to come out. At least the coffee was strong. Probably would not go back though. Staff wasn't too friendly.
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Julie P.

Yelp
When I am super hungry, I don't read reviews. This is my fault for not checking with my helpers. This is like a Dennys. Nothing special or great. It did contain my hunger, which boyfriend appreciates. Until next time, Santa Barbara , I will do better and read my reviews
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Zan L.

Yelp
Open since 1928. Joe's Café is a real Santa Barbara staple. Every time I visit town I pass it but was lucky enough to have time this visit to stop in for my first time. We chose to do breakfast although I know it is also popular for dinner. Located on State Street it's a beautiful walk filled with other shops and restaurants and is closed to auto traffic so it's pedestrian walking only. Inside is really large and open with a lot of different seating options both booths and tables. We were able to be seated immediately after arriving and our waitress was fantastic. She was extremely polite and very quick with everything. There are large parking lots located close by and the first 75 minutes is free, after that it's $3 an hour. They have a pretty large menu that's filled with all sorts of different dishes. Being that we stopped in for breakfast I chose to order my favorite breakfast dish: Eggs Benedict. It was truly great and the eggs were cooked perfectly. The hashbrowns weren't my favorite but I still finished them and overall really enjoyed it. I also got a cup of chili on the side and thought it was very good. It had beans and meat but still I was a big fan. Their coffee is strong and the iced tea is homebrewed and delicious so I would recommend ordering both. Overall a really great meal and someplace that I would definitely stop at each time I visit Santa Barbara. Service is fantastic and pricing is fair so it's a real easy recommendation to anyone.
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Raechel I.

Yelp
Walked here while our car charged for breakfast. Right when you walk in, you are greeted with the ambiance of a classic cafe. The staff was amazing and suggested their favorites. Our group went with The Champion, breakfast burrito, and lox (not on the menu) and everything was delicious! 100% recommend this Santa Barbara gem
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Samantha J.

Yelp
Pricey breakfast, standard fare. Joe's has everything you would expect from a local cafe. Eggs and bacon, decent coffee. Nothing to write home about, but it will get the job done if you're okay with shelling out $21 for breakfast and coffee. The environment was cozy, people were mildly friendly. It was fine, and just that.
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Katy C.

Yelp
Fried Calamari * crust fell apart from picking up/did not stick well to calamari * would not recommend Lasagna * generous amount of meat * on the saltier and saucier side * did not particularly stand out in taste Fettuccine Alfredo * super creamy, buttery, and cheesy alfredo sauce * salt and pepper at every table to season to taste * must try! * orders came with a standard ceaser salad and bread slices (which were dense and untoasted) * energetic environment with friendly staff 7.5/10
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Lejla I.

Yelp
Love this little spot in Santa Barbara, we came here a few times. I love the vibe and the lights in the restaurant. Service is pretty fast and they are very kind. The food is ok, not maybe 5star but it's good enough.

Yvonne S.

Yelp
This place was just ok. My husband and I ordered French dip tri tip sandwiches and they were super bland. They forgot my mother's fettuccine but our son loved his spaghetti. It was pretty mid at best.
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RAY D.

Yelp
I have been going to Joe's once a month since 1975. That's 50 years. I have prime rib. Rare t med rare. The past 3 times I have been there they tell me we are out.???? At 5:00 pm. You are out. No the waiter said we don't serve rare or med rare prime rib WTF. You don't serve prime rib rare? Your chef is an idiot. I will go to Harry 's now. Lots of locals tell me Joe's has gone down hill. NoW I belive it. 15 lb prime rib 8 bone. 15 min per lb. Heat over to 500 degrees. Roast for 30 min ,reduce heat to 225 degrees for around 2 hours. Test with instant read thermomer. To 115 degrees. Let rest. Put the roast in around 1:00 pm. It's ready at 5:00. Put one in at 2:00 and one at 3:00. Easy. AFTER 50 YEARS I WILL NEVER GO BACK. If you can't do it right takevit off the menu. The owner is a steak man does he approve of this culinary disaster?

Dan W.

Yelp
Fun old style atmosphere. Bartender was quite good handling another busy night. I chose the top sirloin steak with mushroom/onions med-rare although was told they have higher quality beef available. Nice presentation and perfectly cooked "but" had a horrible burnt marks off the unclean grill which gave a bitter/burnt flavor and the meat was tough. In away I was happy I didn't splurge more on the cut of beef after tasting the grill taste.
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Larry P.

Yelp
Came to this cafe which has been here on the corner for almost 97 years! The food is super and our server Carlos wearing his suit and tie and jacket was outstanding! Inside takes you back in time with the decor. Great place for anyone anytime.
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Clara T.

Yelp
you had me at the old school interior, large comfortable booths buy a mug. leave full, even if your wallet is less so
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Alicia F.

Yelp
We used to love this place, everything was so good...not anymore ordered the steak sandwich medium well and special order prime rib sandwich medium well. Prime rib came and was a fatty bloody mess on top of a piece of