McKiernan, who owned a tavern that served many lower-class laborers in Montreal, "died in his canteen of a heart attack at the age of 54.

"[3] McKiernan's generosity and gluttony may have inspired the concept of Joe Beef restaurant, which challenges the conventions of fine French dining.

As of November 25th, 2021 co-founder David McMillan announced his retirement, citing burnout and stress after 32 years in the restaurant industry stating, "I never want to shave white truffles on to asparagus for someone from Toronto ever again in my life".

McMillan has since sold his shares to fellow co-founders and co-partners Fred Morin and Allison Cunningham.

[4] The menu at Joe Beef changes every dinner service, usually according to the produce sourced from Atwater Market and other local suppliers.