Eastern Shore Icon Yuk Yuk & Joe’s Seeks Community Support to Reopen

EASTVILLE, Va. — For 25 years, Yuk Yuk & Joe’s has been a beloved fixture on the Eastern Shore, serving as a gathering place for farmers, watermen, and locals drawn to its fresh seafood, friendly atmosphere, and legendary happy hour. Now, the cherished restaurant and bar is calling on its community to help keep the memories alive as it faces a costly infrastructure challenge.

The owners of Yuk Yuk & Joe’s recently launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover the expense of replacing the restaurant’s commercial-grade septic and drainfield system—a critical upgrade that must be completed before the establishment can reopen. Without this essential fix, the future of this local treasure, known as one of Coastal Virginia’s 25 hidden gems, remains uncertain.

“Yuk Yuk & Joe’s has always been more than just a place to eat and drink. It’s a place where ‘From-heres’ and ‘Come-heres’ alike can swap stories, share a laugh, and enjoy great company,” the campaign announcement reads.

The fundraiser, which aims to bridge the financial gap needed to reopen the doors, has three simple requests for supporters: donate what they can, share the campaign with fellow Yuk’s fans, and visit when the restaurant reopens to celebrate the community spirit that defines the Eastern Shore.

For those who have spent afternoons swapping fish tales over cold drinks or celebrating milestones with friends at Yuk Yuk & Joe’s, this is a chance to give back to a place that has been part of the fabric of their lives for decades.

To contribute to the campaign, visit the GoFundMe page at Rebuild Yuk Yuk & Joe’s – Keep the Memories Alive.

With the support of its loyal patrons, Yuk Yuk & Joe’s hopes to fire up the kitchen, pour cold drinks, and once again welcome friends old and new to its tables.