Although it’s located next to Eugene hot spot The Jungle, Joe’s Bar and Grill seems far removed from the wild tangle of drunk college students and is surprisingly low-key and mellow. Joe’s Bar and Grill provides a touch of diversity through the assorted theme nights and digital jukebox that plays everything from Afroman to Jimmy Buffett and Butthole Surfers to Hanson.
The first song I heard while entering Joe’s was “Crash” by Dave Matthews Band, which cast a laid-back vibe throughout the establishment, but then “Candy Shop” by 50 Cent came on and the vibe quickly turned in the opposite direction; this seems to personify the diverse crowd found inside.
From students popping in to get a breather from The Jungle to a husband and wife celebrating their anniversary dressed in a tuxedo and evening gown, Joe’s Bar and Grill caters to a wide variety of people. The bar and restaurant seems to acknowledge its ability to attract many different types of people; it regularly hosts theme nights throughout the week.
Body Modification Mondays give those with tattoos or body piercings a dollar off their drinks. Hip-Hop Tuesdays draw in a younger crowd as hip-hop blasts from the jukebox and well drinks are only $1. PBR Wednesdays celebrate those with a love for Pabst Blue Ribbon by selling PBR for just $1 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Grateful Thursdays change the crowd to devoted deadheads, who get $1 off their draft beers. Fridays and Saturdays are up in the air: On those nights it’s Bartender’s Choice. Microbrews and well drinks are discounted for ladies, no matter the time or day of the week.
According to bartender Jason Cannon, Fridays and Saturdays are a mixture of all the crowds that come in during the week because Joe’s provides an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. There are four pool tables throughout the establishment and booths big enough to comfortably seat at least six. There is also a back bar at Joe’s, connected to and yet separated from the main bar, that provides a more intimate setting.
Although the name is Joe’s Bar and Grill, the restaurant is not owned by the same person.
“We rent out the kitchen so we don’t have to endure the costs of having a kitchen staff,” Cannon said. “Also, it gives someone a chance to get their restaurant going and develop a clientele without having to own a full business.”
The restaurant currently found inside Joe’s, which Cannon says has yet to be named, provides a wide selection of typical bar foods, including cheap appetizers such as mozzarella sticks, beer battered “O Rings,” french fries, chicken wings, mini burritos and “The Very Large Nachos,” which comes with salsa, black beans, sour cream, guacamole and chicken or beef for less than $7. Burgers are also on the menu for $6 to $7. Dishes such as a grilled chicken sandwich and a basket of wings and fries are also available.
When in the mood for a quieter bar experience in Eugene, Joe’s Bar and Grill is a great place to check out. Joe’s provides options for lots of different types of people, which is fitting in a town like Eugene.

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