Leo’s is stunning, even if the oyster bar’s seafood-heavy menu isn’t - Review - San Francisco - The Infatuation
"A lot of restaurants in SF have predictable minimalist dining rooms. Some warm wood accents here. A little exposed brick there. Maybe a neon sign that spells out “You deserve this.” Leo’s, though, looks like a tropical bird trying to attract a mate, and that’s why we come to this oyster bar. The seafood might not leave much of an impression, but the space is enough to make you forget about concrete- and monitor-infested FiDi. video credit: Taylor Gomez video credit: Taylor Gomez video credit: Taylor Gomez Pause Unmute The most coveted seats are at the bar, where you can see Leo’s overgrown ferns and pots of fresh flowers framing a tiny atrium. Sit here. You’ll still have access to the full menu, and you won’t need room for more than a few small plates anyway. Rather than ordering a full dinner, pick and choose a few snacks, like a crudo that teeters on almost being too spicy, and a great one-bite deviled egg topped with a fried oyster. Just be aware that Leo’s tends to fill up shortly after 5pm when office-goers have been freed, so try to beat the rush for the bar—doors open at 4pm every weekday. (Or come later.) How to get into Leo's Oyster Bar Same-day weekday reservations are easy to nab. Just don’t bring a group—Leo’s is mostly just bar stools and two-tops. RESERVE A TABLE WITH RESERVE A TABLE Food Rundown Oysters Solid all around. Some come with toppings, but we prefer as is with mignonette and cocktail sauce. Deviled Eggs With Fried Oysters Order this version instead of the smoked salmon. It’s a great starter—we always order at least one per person. Fish And Chips While the meat is moist, the soggy breading falls apart. The menu only has four entree options, and we’d either get another lobster roll or the risotto over this. PlayMute video credit: Taylor Gomez Leo's Crudo Refreshing, acidic, and just spicy enough thanks to habanero. Get this to round out your appetizers. Saffron Risotto The rice is slightly undercooked and the saffron is overpowering. We suggest skipping. PlayMute video credit: Taylor Gomez Lobster Roll Generously filled and creamy, but it disappears in a few bites. At $40, with a near guarantee you won’t be filled up, only order this if you have a couple of other small plates at the ready. Drinks There are just six cocktails on the menu, but they’re all solid. Our favorite is the celery- and citrus-based Barbarita with lingering heat from jalapeño (it’s also available as a mocktail without the tequila). The wine list is longer with at least a few reds, whites, and sparkling options by the glass." - Patrick Wong
