For nearly 35 years, Sweet Joanna’s Cafe has been a neighborhood staple at the University of San Francisco’s downtown campus, serving students, staff and local workers. But after surviving the severe economic downturns of recent years, the cafe’s owner says he was shocked to learn last month that the university does not plan to renew his lease.
Operating on the first floor of the historic Folgers Coffee building at 101 Howard St., just a block from the Embarcadero, Sweet Joanna’s has weathered the neighborhood’s ups and downs.
“In the pandemic we went through the worst. And I thought, okay, the good time is coming,” owner Joseph Abughosh said. “I don’t know about the good time anymore.”
The sudden notice prompted Abughosh to rally his customers. Alongside a “Best of 2026” award and a certificate of honor from the city, a blunt poster recently hung on the cafe wall reading: After 35 years, USF is throwing us out.
Over the past few weeks, Abughosh has encouraged patrons to email the university to voice their concerns. Customers have echoed his frustration, pointing to the cafe’s reliable service and affordable pricing in an increasingly expensive area.
“I’m surprised,” customer Iain Clayton said. “I mean, it’s been a great place to come, the food’s good and it’s pretty cheap.”
For USF graduate student Michael Vostrikov, the cafe is a vital resource.
“Considering it’s on a college campus, here you can get something to eat [for] 15 bucks after tax,” Vostrikov said. “Anywhere else it’s 20-plus. And you’re in a situation like, you don’t really make a lot going to college.”
Abughosh added that USF staff are among his most loyal patrons, often calling him at late hours for last-minute catering help, which he says he has always been happy to provide.
In a prepared statement, USF spokesperson Mary McInerney said the university plans to transition to a new food service partner but has not yet selected one.
“The university’s decision was made only after careful consideration,” McInerney wrote. “It was not an easy decision, nor does it diminish our appreciation for the cafe’s long history.”
Despite the impending closure, Abughosh recently expressed renewed optimism after receiving a personal phone call from the university president.
“He was optimistic, actually he was kind and nice, and I know he’s a man of God,” Abughosh said. “So I feel that, maybe he wants to work something out with me.”
As a show of good faith, Abughosh took down most of the protest posters inside the business. While he has not received further contact from the university and his future at 101 Howard St. remains uncertain, he and his staff continue to serve their daily customers.