If I could give this place 10 stars, I would. From the literal moment we arrived until the moment we left, our experience at Leon’s was nothing short of incredible. The atmosphere was welcoming, vibrant, and full of positive energy. Everyone we encountered was so friendly, it truly felt like being part of a community.
While we were waiting to order, the owner himself, Leon, surprised us by jumping into our photo. Which was such a fun and memorable touch as we brought our family there for the first time, and it really speaks to the heart and soul of this place. Becker and Tony at the front were absolute gems! They were warm, personable, and genuinely excited to have us there. Their kindness set the tone for what would be our second unforgettable meal.
Now, let’s talk food. You can’t go wrong with a single dish, everything was absolutely to die for. We’re originally from New Orleans and have Cuban roots, so we’re definitely picky when it comes to flavor, but Leon’s completely blew us away. Every single bite, from the entrees to the sides, to the sauces- was packed with tons of flavor and clearly made fresh and with care. The Cuban sandwich in particular was perfection—flavorful, authentic, and incredibly satisfying. You can truly taste the passion and quality in every single dish. It was a 10 out of 10 across the board. If you’re in Tallahassee and haven’t been to Leon’s yet, you’re missing out on truly a special gem!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Shelby McCrackin
I HIGHLY recommend the gouda grilled cheese with the tomato bisque. It's an elevated dish that still keeps it's comfort.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
camila camargo
Leon’s restaurant is one of the best places I’ve ever eaten. This cozy cottage is home to unique food, flavor and flair. There is much thought put into the menu & pairings. The chef is knowledgeable and makes sure every meal is an experience in and of itself. Never had a bad meal here. A MUST try.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tian Sanchez-Ballado
Leon’s at Lake Ella has destroyed my life and I’m grateful.
I’m writing this from the parking lot because I refuse to leave. The she crab soup has fundamentally broken my brain chemistry. I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to make food this good - someone should call the authorities. I’ve already planned my funeral and I want to be buried with a bowl of this soup.
The fried green tomato sandwich has made me question every life choice I’ve ever made. Why did I waste years eating other food? Why didn’t I move to Tallahassee sooner? I’m having an existential crisis in the best possible way. This sandwich owns my soul now and frankly, I’m fine with it.
And that focaccia - Jesus Christ, what did you DO to this bread? It’s like if angels decided to get into baking but also had a vendetta against my self-control. I ate three pieces and regret nothing. I would fight a bear for another slice.
I’m going to have to start a support group for people whose lives have been ruined by Leon’s. We’ll meet weekly to cry about how nothing will ever taste this good again. The owner should be arrested for crimes against my taste buds and also given a Nobel Prize.
Anyway, I’ll be back tomorrow. And the day after. Forever.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
cvrsxdevil
absolutely fantastic! I had the grit and shrimp sandwich and upgraded it with signature crab soup, and both were fabulous. Haven’t had such good food in a while. One thing to mention though would be flies and other insects on the outside terrace (which is expected, but keep it in mind when choosing where to seat)
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Robert Duggleby
We’ve had lunch at the restaurant and Leon cooking private dinners in our home. He is extremely talented at his trade, but also friendly, personable and engaging!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tony Woodberry
Great food Great service
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Erin Robertson
Leon’s at Lake Ella is an incredible dining experience in the Tallahassee area! The food and service are out of this world and the vibes sitting by the lake are so good. Definitely recommend for any and all occasions. Leon is the best!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Matthew Wescott Manchee
Very happy with how this turned out.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jeanette Soto
We had the wings, tofu bao buns, and yucca fries. All were so delicious! Service was great including the atmosphere
HOW are the reviews so high? The people leaving them must be because this is one of the worst restaurants i’ve ever been to. Each time we have come here, we end up waiting at least 45 minutes for our meal. They ask for tip, but there is zero service? Food isn’t worth the wait either. mehhhh. ✨🥂💅🏼
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Marc S
Lots of gnats if you eat outside
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Frankey May
I expected it to be delicious, but lunch far exceeded my expectations! The BLT sandwich and fried yucca were insane, every bite was perfect. We are so lucky to have this awesome spot in Tallahassee. love that it's right on Lake Ella underneath the beautiful shade trees.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Franceska Drinkovic
I expected it to be delicious, but lunch far exceeded my expectations! The BLT sandwich and fried yucca were insane, every bite was perfect. We are so lucky to have this awesome spot in Tallahassee. love that it's right on Lake Ella underneath the beautiful shade trees.
dusty boyd
Leon's on Lake Ella by awesome Joe's Bike Store 31 years- serves incredible shrimp and grit sandwich, fried green tomatoes- and most of all- they pour it on! Sandwiches loaded with whatever you order. Order a coke, it's like 32oz in a real cup, where they bring it all out to you on a table sitting within 15ft of Lake filled w turtles, ducks, fish. Giant oaks strewn w moss shade you- but you better pay attention- he's only open 11a to 2p!!
10/10 Experience at Leon’s at Lake Ella!
If I could give this place 10 stars, I would. From the literal moment we arrived until the moment we left, our experience at Leon’s was nothing short of incredible. The atmosphere was welcoming, vibrant, and full of positive energy. Everyone we encountered was so friendly, it truly felt like being part of a community.
While we were waiting to order, the owner himself, Leon, surprised us by jumping into our photo. Which was such a fun and memorable touch as we brought our family there for the first time, and it really speaks to the heart and soul of this place. Becker and Tony at the front were absolute gems! They were warm, personable, and genuinely excited to have us there. Their kindness set the tone for what would be our second unforgettable meal.
Now, let’s talk food. You can’t go wrong with a single dish, everything was absolutely to die for. We’re originally from New Orleans and have Cuban roots, so we’re definitely picky when it comes to flavor, but Leon’s completely blew us away. Every single bite, from the entrees to the sides, to the sauces- was packed with tons of flavor and clearly made fresh and with care. The Cuban sandwich in particular was perfection—flavorful, authentic, and incredibly satisfying. You can truly taste the passion and quality in every single dish. It was a 10 out of 10 across the board. If you’re in Tallahassee and haven’t been to Leon’s yet, you’re missing out on truly a special gem!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I HIGHLY recommend the gouda grilled cheese with the tomato bisque. It's an elevated dish that still keeps it's comfort.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Leon’s restaurant is one of the best places I’ve ever eaten. This cozy cottage is home to unique food, flavor and flair. There is much thought put into the menu & pairings. The chef is knowledgeable and makes sure every meal is an experience in and of itself. Never had a bad meal here. A MUST try.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Leon’s at Lake Ella has destroyed my life and I’m grateful.
I’m writing this from the parking lot because I refuse to leave. The she crab soup has fundamentally broken my brain chemistry. I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to make food this good - someone should call the authorities. I’ve already planned my funeral and I want to be buried with a bowl of this soup.
The fried green tomato sandwich has made me question every life choice I’ve ever made. Why did I waste years eating other food? Why didn’t I move to Tallahassee sooner? I’m having an existential crisis in the best possible way. This sandwich owns my soul now and frankly, I’m fine with it.
And that focaccia - Jesus Christ, what did you DO to this bread? It’s like if angels decided to get into baking but also had a vendetta against my self-control. I ate three pieces and regret nothing. I would fight a bear for another slice.
I’m going to have to start a support group for people whose lives have been ruined by Leon’s. We’ll meet weekly to cry about how nothing will ever taste this good again. The owner should be arrested for crimes against my taste buds and also given a Nobel Prize.
Anyway, I’ll be back tomorrow. And the day after. Forever.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
absolutely fantastic!
I had the grit and shrimp sandwich and upgraded it with signature crab soup, and both were fabulous. Haven’t had such good food in a while. One thing to mention though would be flies and other insects on the outside terrace (which is expected, but keep it in mind when choosing where to seat)
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
We’ve had lunch at the restaurant and Leon cooking private dinners in our home. He is extremely talented at his trade, but also friendly, personable and engaging!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great food Great service
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Leon’s at Lake Ella is an incredible dining experience in the Tallahassee area! The food and service are out of this world and the vibes sitting by the lake are so good. Definitely recommend for any and all occasions. Leon is the best!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Very happy with how this turned out.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We had the wings, tofu bao buns, and yucca fries. All were so delicious! Service was great including the atmosphere
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
HOW are the reviews so high? The people leaving them must be because this is one of the worst restaurants i’ve ever been to. Each time we have come here, we end up waiting at least 45 minutes for our meal. They ask for tip, but there is zero service? Food isn’t worth the wait either. mehhhh. ✨🥂💅🏼
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Lots of gnats if you eat outside
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I expected it to be delicious, but lunch far exceeded my expectations! The BLT sandwich and fried yucca were insane, every bite was perfect. We are so lucky to have this awesome spot in Tallahassee. love that it's right on Lake Ella underneath the beautiful shade trees.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I expected it to be delicious, but lunch far exceeded my expectations! The BLT sandwich and fried yucca were insane, every bite was perfect. We are so lucky to have this awesome spot in Tallahassee. love that it's right on Lake Ella underneath the beautiful shade trees.
Leon's on Lake Ella by awesome Joe's Bike Store 31 years- serves incredible shrimp and grit sandwich, fried green tomatoes- and most of all- they pour it on!
Sandwiches loaded with whatever you order. Order a coke, it's like 32oz in a real cup, where they bring it all out to you on a table sitting within 15ft of Lake filled w turtles, ducks, fish.
Giant oaks strewn w moss shade you- but you better pay attention- he's only open 11a to 2p!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Loading...