Two favorites: Fried Chicken and Chargrilled Oysters
This low-key restaurant, located in a converted auto body shop, is known for its fried chicken and frose. Leon's Fine Poultry and Oysters has an interesting decor, featuring concrete floors, exposed wooden beams, and warm white walls adorned with a variety of old, framed portraits and memorabilia from the original body shop.
I love that they have that high/low vibe - serving cheap beer, oysters, and even French champagne!
Leon’s doesn’t take reservations, so plan on waiting or visit early on a weeknight. The interior has a vintage feel, warm and cozy. However, I like the outdoor patio next to the garage doors.
Whether you are a champagne lover or a beer drinker, you’ve got options. I like both, so depending on my mood, I might have a glass of French champagne or a cold beer. They offer ‘cheap beer’, including classic Miller High Life ‘ponys’ and PBR on draft. Leon’s also provides a variety of local brews, a draft rose, and good cocktails.
If it’s a hot day, order a rose slushie to start. I’m not a big fan of sweet drinks, but this is a Leon's classic, so …
It also pairs well with the salty fried chicken and oysters. I realize they don’t sound like they go together, but trust me on this one.
Start with the smoked mahi dip with fried saltines. I know... not healthy, but amazingly good. The combination of the smoked fish with the salty crackers is fabulous.
I’m obsessed with chargrilled oysters, and Leon's are the best I’ve had outside of New Orleans. They are grilled in lemon, butter, parsley, and parmesan cheese and served with crusty Texas toast and lemons.
Don't miss the fried chicken at Leon's
Order a plate of fried chicken. It’s served on an enamel butcher tray with a red and white checkered cloth paper. It’s hot, crispy, slightly spicy, and incredibly juicy.
Try Leon's marinated cucumber salad, made with champagne vinegar and a hint of sesame oil. The scalloped potatoes are billed as ‘old school,’ and that’s right on target if you grew up in the South.
When Leon’s Fine Poultry and Oyster Shop opened, they wanted a comfortable southern joint, and that’s precisely what it is.
Well done.
