Joe’s Cafe, a venerable Santa Barbara dining and drinking institution, is the oldest restaurant in the city.  Over the years, it has become a favorite for locals and tourists alike, who mingle over cocktails or chat during dinner in a buzzing, traditional atmosphere.  The exceptional ambiance underscores its rich heritage and long history.

The original location of Joe’s Cafe was 512 State Street, just down the street from its current site. Before becoming Joe’s Cafe, the lot hosted many diverse businesses over the years, including: Sing Lee’s Chinese Laundry, “Lord” Harry Harcroft blacksmith shop, Boston Restaurant, K. Konda Restaurant, De Hart’s Second Hand Store and Domenico Pignocco’s Soft Drink Stand & Pool Hall, which later became the Channel Bar.

Joe Ferrario, an Italian immigrant, and his wife Adelina bought the Channel Bar in 1928 — and Joe’s Cafe was born.  The advent of the Great Depression the next year did little to squelch Joe’s enthusiasm for owning his dream restaurant.  His hard work and magnanimous personality quickly established Joe’s as a favorite.

The repeal of the 18th Amendment in 1933 ended 14 years of Prohibition. Seizing the moment, Joe became a distributor of Acme Beer, brought from San Francisco by boat and unloaded at Stearn’s Wharf under tight security.  The good times – and draft beer – were here again. Joe’s Cafe flourished during World War II with the opening of two sub-assembly defense plants in Santa Barbara. The transplanted servicemen and workers enjoyed the friendly environment of the restaurant and the potent beverages at the bar.

I encourage you to read more of Joe’s Cafe history here: https://www.joescafesb.com/history