Original Joe's San Jose

Mr. George

The food was good and the service was okay, but the restaurant was way too dark and the food was a bit pricey.

Jae Duvall

For those of us who remember Original Joe's from the last 50 years, it is really hard to recognize today. Sure, it's still on the corner of 1st and San Carlos and they still serve prime rib and American Italian food. But once you walk through the door, uncertainty awaits. As the only people waiting for a table, we were told three times that someone would be right with us. After a couple of minutes, a hostess came to seat us; she had no interaction with us except to ask how many. I reached in to grab her attention and start conversation but she could only utter a couple words. This review is already too long, so just let me say that the sauce no longer has depth, the ravioli is overcooked, the prices too high, and the service seems frazzled. Our waiter is one that will educate you on how busy he is, and all I did was smile as he walked by. There was something rare the old staff had, they gave excellent service no matter how busy and they were always busy! They didn't make excuses or educate you on how expensive bread is nowadays and that's why we charge for it now. What! Okay, if you are going to be slow in service, give the people bread, they'll be less hangry. Charge for a second basket if you must. And please, if you really want a good tip, treat me like I know what I'm doing. I've managed food and beverage in hotels and was in the food and hospitality industry. I may not order a cocktail or wine because I don't drink anymore, but I still enjoy the experience of having a great and long meal fueled by good conversations. Laugh with us, make suggestions from the menu and you might wind up with 100% tip instead of 30%.

Wei Dai

It is just a reminder to myself, please do not come. Service was great, food is so plain, come on, I cook better burgers. Trader Joe’s linguine is better. Two years ago before pandemic, I told myself do not ever come, welll well well, I forgot. Still dining in while editing….. what a brave man.

Linus Tan (Linus Populi)

For six years I thought about dining at Original Joe’s, but for reasons even unbeknownst to me, I could not find any chance to actual dine here. Today, after moving to another state for a year, I returned to the place a called home for six years, and actually dined here. The place looks exactly like what was described on SJSU’s new student city guide back in 2014: classic, but not old. The food? Although it’s definitely not the most authentic Italian food, it tastes good. Even though I don’t have any Italian bloods running in my family, the food tastes exactly like how my parents would have made it. It tastes like home, and it’s uniquely delicious. I am an international student, and that means there is a good chance that I won’t be able to stay, to work, and to live in the United States after my graduation. And since I already moved out of San Jose, I won’t be able to return to this place for a second round of meal. That thought actually scared me a little, and I can’t help but shred some tears during my visit. It was a bit awkward, but I glad I did. Because that is exactly what I felt about this place, and I wish one day I will be back, and get myself some good pastas and desserts.