Joe's Inn opened in 1952 on Shields Avenue, founded by Joe Mencarini, and became one of the Fan District's defining neighborhood restaurants: narrow aisles of booths, long-tenured wait staff, and a menu that ranges from pancakes to a pastrami-and-Swiss sandwich.
Nick Kafantaris bought the restaurant in 1977, and in 1980 the family leased the adjoining Fan Grill space to expand the dining room. Michael Kafantaris took over the building itself in 2008. Through the changes in ownership and space, the menu has stayed close to what it always was.
The kitchen's best-known dish is Spaghetti á la Joe, a fixture regulars have ordered for generations. Brunch brings pancakes, potatoes, and chicken, while the rest of the menu runs through sandwiches, salads, onion rings, and bread, plates typically served with two sides.
Richmond Magazine named Joe's Inn to its Best of Richmond list in 2025.
Nick Kafantaris bought the restaurant in 1977, and in 1980 the family leased the adjoining Fan Grill space to expand the dining room. Michael Kafantaris took over the building itself in 2008. Through the changes in ownership and space, the menu has stayed close to what it always was.
The kitchen's best-known dish is Spaghetti á la Joe, a fixture regulars have ordered for generations. Brunch brings pancakes, potatoes, and chicken, while the rest of the menu runs through sandwiches, salads, onion rings, and bread, plates typically served with two sides.
Richmond Magazine named Joe's Inn to its Best of Richmond list in 2025.