Moes and Joes History:
Step back into the rich tapestry of Atlanta's history and discover the enduring legacy of Moe's & Joe's Tavern, a beloved establishment nestled in the heart of Virginia-Highlands.
Founded in 1947 by two brothers fresh from the trenches of WWII, Moe and Joe Krinsky, the tavern emerged from the ashes of a former delicatessen. With a vision fueled by camaraderie and community, they transformed the space into a haven for locals craving the iconic MoJo Burger and pitchers of Pabst Blue Ribbon, forever dubbed "the finest" by the late, revered server, Horace McKennie.
At the heart of Moe's & Joe's stood Horace McKennie, a legendary figure whose presence was as enduring as the tavern itself. Hired in 1949, just a couple of years after its opening, Horace became more than a bartender; he became the soul of the establishment. Dressed impeccably in a starched white oxford cloth shirt and a red bow tie, Horace exuded the air of a distinguished maitre d', greeting patrons with warmth and familiarity.
Over the next fifty years, he became an integral part of the tavern's fabric, etching his name into its storied history. Over the decades, Moe's & Joe's became synonymous with Virginia-Highlands, its wooden booths, vintage cash register, and even the cigarette smoke-stained wallpaper standing as steadfast monuments to its timeless allure.
Despite changes in ownership, the essence of the tavern remained untouched, preserving the warm embrace of familiarity cherished by generations of patrons. In 2014, a significant renovation breathed new life into the historic space, ushering in modern amenities while honoring its storied past. The addition of a full bar with liquor and cocktails, alongside expanded seating indoors and on the sidewalk patio, marked a new chapter in the tavern's journey, welcoming both loyal regulars and curious newcomers alike.
Beyond its rustic facade lies a treasure trove of memories and anecdotes, each echoing the indomitable spirit of Moe Krinsky and his brother Joe. Among these tales is the legendary exchange where the Krinsky brothers traded 1,700 pitchers of PBR for a 1947 Rolls-Royce, a testament to their ingenuity and the tavern's spirit of camaraderie. As patrons continue to gather beneath the familiar glow of Moe's & Joe's neon sign, they not only honor the past but also celebrate the enduring charm of a neighborhood institution that transcends time.
So, whether you seek solace in a cold PBR, crave the comfort of Atlanta's best wings, or simply long to savor the nostalgia of an original MoJo Burger, Moe's & Joe's Tavern awaits, ready to welcome you home.