Leon's transforms a former gas station into a lively New American spot in Decatur with inventive cocktails, fresh farm-to-table fare, and a dog-friendly patio.
"One of the first craft cocktail bars in Decatur (and sibling to Brick Store Pub,) Leon’s has seen a few of Atlanta’s finest behind its bar at one time or another. Does Miles Macquarrie (Kimball House) ring a bell? The bar program continues to focus on classic cocktails as well as its extensive local beer list thanks to its Brick Store ties in Decatur." - Beth McKibben, Henna Bakshi
"Leon’s has a prime location just off the busy Decatur Square with a large, always-packed, shaded patio, where you can watch passersby clutching tiny shopping bags. The building used to house a gas station (hence the name) but has been transformed into a farmhouse-chic New American restaurant. Entrees like a decent, thinly sliced hanger steak and just-fine risotto mean you’ll walk away satisfied. But we usually use Leon’s as a cocktail hangout because they make seemingly odd combinations (like a roasted beet, tequila, and coffee vermouth concoction) taste like liquid gold. They don’t take reservations, so plan on a wait during the peak dinner rush. photo credit: Alan Maxcy Food Rundown Peppadews You get six of these little sweet peppers stuffed with goat cheese and a dash of basil. They’re only $6 and pretty decent for an appetizer. video credit: Juli Horsford Warm Hominy + Feta Salad This is one of their more popular salads for a reason. The chickpeas and chewy hominy are covered in a delicious, spicy chimichurri and have a nice zesty tang. Brussels Sprouts We’re on board with the standard take on this crispy, fried vegetable with a light balsamic glaze. But we’re not OK with the ranch dip they’re paired with since it drowns the good flavors out with run-of-the-mill buttermilk dressing. video credit: Juli Horsford Hanger Steak This thinly sliced steak is just your average steak. photo credit: Juli Horsford Risotto A skillet containing roasted cauliflower, capers, and mushrooms sounds good in theory. But in reality this is a serving of bland, warm mush. La Belle Endormie The cocktail menu changes frequently, but if this is available, get it. The slightly bitter cognac mixes well with the sweetness of the spiced pear, honey, and lemon." - Juli Horsford
"The dining concept at Leon’s is reminiscent of a full-service gas station where attentive and friendly service remains a priority. The staff is knowledgeable and welcoming, the cocktails are fantastic, and the menu is chock-full of locally sourced offerings at equally pleasing prices. The outdoor patio seating is perfect on a cool day and the interior space is bright and open and feels great even when it is jam packed. FYI: Get the burger. You’ll leave feeling full and satisfied!" - Staci Janik
"Decatur haunt Leon’s Full Service kicks the charcuterie plate up a notch by aging its own meat, pickling vegetables, and even creating mustards in house. The assortment is paired with Sweet Grass Dairy’s soft-ripened cow’s milk Green Hill and grilled sourdough from Alon’s Bakery." - Sarra Sedghi
"Leon’s Full Service includes a small but buzzy front covered patio that offers great people watching along East Ponce and shelter from the rain and sun while dining on pub grub and sipping on cocktails. It’s also heated during the winter. There’s now a second covered patio on the side of the restaurant. And it’s dog-friendly." - Beth McKibben
