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Leon's Lounge
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 2 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Music:
- Live, Juke Box
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
39 reviews for Leon's Lounge
Review Highlights
"...of fun and games: darts, pool table, and a terrific jukebox."
(in 5 reviews)
"The bartender was excellent, and it made a great first stop..."
(in 16 reviews)
"The original stained glass and chandeliers remain and they..."
(in 4 reviews)
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39 reviews in English
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Review from Dana C.
Houston, TX
1/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
I love Leon's. A dive bar with a very swanky interior (dim lighting with candles and chandeliers) and laid-back clientèle. The bartender here is pretty awesome. Very friendly and he knows how to make a good $6 lemon drop martini. The drink prices are just downright cheap and they don't skimp on the liquor any either. I've never seen this place packed so there are always plenty of open booths to sit at.
The old style phone booth outside is pretty cool. -
Review from Cee B.
10/29/2011 2 Check-ins Here
As Yelper Todd S. pointed out to me, this place is not really a dive anymore. It used to be. I agree with him. But I'll call it "nouveau dive"
Ok, I'll be real. A dive bar that can pull off a Sidecar, Manhattan, Old-Fashioned, Lemon Drop, and a Pimm's Cup like that deserves 5 stars. I've had better of course. But for a dive bar, pretty tasty and strong. Commendable mixology. Especially for that price. Pimm's Cup not as good as Anvil, but it's not a whole lot worse (as many other reviews noted) and I don't have to endure the Anvil $30,000 millionaires and long wait for a drink. I bet they could rock a Pimm's Winter Cup here, too.
The bartender here is legit. On par with Grand Prize Bar with some drinks.
Bring your own vinyl!!!!!!!!!111111!!!!
This crowd is laid back so I could feel comfortable busting out some old skewl Lead Belly, Lightin' Hopkins or John Lee Hooker without disapproving frowns. I doubt I'll remember to bring them. But it's a nice thought.Listed in: STELLA WAS A DIVER: DIVE BARS, Competent (or at least…
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Review from Shakira D.
Houston, TX
10/7/2011
The bar manager is rude and disinterested. He got very defensive with me when I mentioned that he was no where to be found with an empty bar - his response "I'm the only one here and I have work to do in the back." Ummm, isn't that what you do BEFORE you open your bar? And how is it my problem that it's just him?
Call me crazy, but in a bar atmosphere isn't the bartender / bar manager supposed to act like he wants your business?
Service is a HUGE part of keeping your bar afloat with happy patrons, and this bar was empty and unfriendly - sinking ship.
Won't support this establishment in the future. -
Review from Ellen C.
9/5/2011
I was recently reunited with Leon's thanks to a CMYE and I couldn't be more grateful because this place is awesome.
I vaguely remember stopping by here forever ago in some half fatigued/half drunk stupor and being none too impressed. In fact I think I was actually creeped out, but this more sophisticated Leon's (perhaps I am harsh and hasty to have judged it so during its prepubescent years?) is totally rocking.
I guess the interior can very accurately be described as "Lounge-y" now with the velvety chairs, interestingly snazzy decor and such. Very cozy and comfy, but still classy - what more can you ask for?
The cocktails are pretty amazing and delicious. I typically order vodka and soda with lime (because I'm a ~lady~ and apparently old, as I can no longer efficiently metabolize calories, WTF), but I permit myself the indulgent alcoholic calories here because it's so worth it. Given that I am old, I can no longer recall the names of the drinks, but do yourself a favor and stop by during happy hour to try the various delightful concoctions.
I would have to say that this is a pretty legit date destination, ahem fellas and ladies - so go forth and prosper. And keep it classy. -
Review from Kevin D.
Houston, TX
Cool little spot. Like the two turntables (didn't see a microphone) where you can play your own vinyls from home - or sample the house collection.
Good service/personalities. Also, Little Joe Washington seems to be a regular here... -
Review from Weber C.
Encino, CA
1/11/2012
I came here on a Saturday for dinner and was disappointed. The food was mediocre at best. The food is not that great. The burgers are too greasy... the staff is a little slow....I will only go back for a happy hour perhaps.
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Review from Cameron B.
Houston, TX
I came here to check out the new and improved Leon's and have a few drinks before heading to a show at Continental Club.
I was impressed with the decor. The original stained glass and chandeliers remain and they have added some great comfortable furniture in the lounge area behind the bar. The jukebox is no more, as now they only play vinyl. The bartender told us that during the week you can even bring your own.
All in all I'm sold on Leon's. Loved it and will be sure to head that way more often. -
Review from Farrah A.
Thank Jebus that Leon's has reopened (as of earlier this year) and still posses that vintage, old skool Houston charm.
So what's new about one of H-town's oldest bar - besides new management? Sadly, the piano and jukebox are gone. However, expect the tunes to come from vinyls played from behind the bar.
They've also revamped their drink menu, adding craft cocktails to the mix. The Pimm's Cup wasn't nearly as good as Anvil, but I had a great basil, cucumber and gin cocktail. It was so refreshing, I coulda sworn it was actually doing my liver some good. -
Review from Jenna H.
Seattle, WA
1/27/2012
I'd really like to love this place; the bar is funky and old timey. When we walked in, though, I could swear we were invisible. Not many people at the place, and no "hey hows it going, welcome to our fledgling establishment!!" We wandered back and forth a bit, but a stray beer here, a jacket or a hamburger there, everything looked kinda taken. I tried to make eye contact with the dude behind the bar but he was pretty determined to continue ignoring me until I finally asked if every seat was spoken for or not?? He proceeded to move a beer bottle and carry on. Apparently, he was not the bartender. Eventually, the bartender got around to us. We ordered some drinks and looked around... I felt like I was imposing upon them just trying to spend my money there. There were some kids running around.. And some boxes on the counter... This is a bar, right? And they're open? Just a strange vibe all the way around. We felt unwelcome and will not be back.
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Review from David N.
4/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been looking for more chilled lounge areas since I'm getting a bit older. Leon's Lounge seemed like the perfect place. However, it was just a big too tame for my liking.
This place was a dive bar...but it was classy. They had real candles and chandeliers. There is plenty of street parking and this place is isolated so you can get in and out of here easily.
Apparently they updated their drink menu and now serves specialty drinks. I had the whiskey smash which was made with makers mark, lemon, mint, sugar, and soda. The drink was just ok. It was on special for 6 a drink which saved a dollar from normal price. Our group stayed about 40 minutes, just didn't ever figure out the hype.Listed in: Houston: Worst Bars
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Review from Arie M.
6/10/2011
I am almost ashamed that I had never heard of this place even though I have lived in Houston for a long time and frequent many places around here.
From what I hear and what I saw on the pictures on the wall, this is a very old bar which was recently rebuilt. This is a very charming bar. The decorations are an absolute throwback to what you see on the TV shows like Mad Men. Everything was clean and comfortable. The bartenders were also very nice and laid back. I don't know whether this was an everyday thing, but they had some delicious and healthy appetizers when I visited there too.
If you've never been to this place, give them a try. The only criticism that I have is that there was only one TV and it didn't have an HD signal. Of course, this isn't a sports bar, but if there is a sporting event on TV, I'd hate to avoid coming here because I would miss the game. -
Review from gini r.
Friendswood, TX
4/2/2011
Finally made it to a happy hour with my work crew to Leon's. I never made it to Leon's before the current reopening so don't have a before and after to compare but .. dive bar ... i wouldn't necessarily call it that.
Was pleasantly surprised to walk around the corner from the entrance room long bar, to find a very comfortable and cozy setting area - chandeliers, mirros, velvets and throw pillows add to the ambiance. I know there is also a small alley/patio area though i didn't take a look.
It may not be "galleria" fancy but that's more than ok by me -- service was great, they were playing vinyl album sides and drinks were good and affordable. I'll be back Leon's i promise. -
Review from Kels R.
Houston, TX
5/6/2011
I am always hesitant to go near Midtown, but will always go there to go to this bar. The drinks are delicious, and the bartenders are awesome. I went here on a Saturday night, and it was not very packed. We all sat in the back room with the lounging chairs. And apparently you can bring a record in and they will play it.
Atmosphere is great, drinks and bartenders are too. -
Review from Kari M.
3/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
What a quirky little place. It's SO classy (as long as you stay INSIDE!).
When we went the bathrooms were broken and the back patio was closed because of a busted sewage pipe...I was sad but it didn't deter me.
I love the velvet wingback chairs, the adorned throw pillows, the BEAUTIFUL chandeliers, the dark wood and the stained glass windows. The bar tenders are hilarious. I told him they were rated highly on Yelp and he just said "I'm not rated highly on anything and I've never heard of that before." WHAT!? Well, we'll make sure he knows who we are soon enough :)
They have an awesome deal where you can go in from 2-5 pm with your own vinyl records and they will play them for you. Everything about this place is cozy and cute. I can't wait to take some of my girlfriends here.
I love this bar. Do not get it wrong. Go here....but you need to know about this next part just for the sake of it.
Now....let's get back to the issue you were all wondering about. Why did I say that it's classy as long as you stay inside? When we were there, we were outside in their cute little bench and table area, just hanging out. Then this guy comes up and tries to open to door inbetween the bar. Apparently it's an apartment above the bar. He's yelling upstairs through the open window with a Russian accent "I have left my keys, let me in!"
So a woman comes down and opens the door. She is clearly wasted. She sits on the bench with us and starts talking to us about how he lost her keys to her brand new car and she's pissed, etc, etc. In the middle of this a homeless man walks up to me and is trying to sell me these origami roses and insects he makes (which were actually beautiful).
The crazy woman turns around and is like "Ain't no body want those so why don't you just move on?!"
ok ok ok
I could go on. My point. I don't mind the occasional homeless man. I can handle that. What I CAN'T handle is a woman who lives up stairs which means she is probably ALWAYS out there doing that to people. No thanks! -
Review from Donna C.
Houston, TX
8/30/2011
Hey, you gotta appreciate creative drinks! It's a fun environment. Go with your friends.
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Review from Jeffrey S.
Brenham, TX
8/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love this bar! If I lived closer I'd be a regular.
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Review from Nicole M.
Houston, TX
7/21/2011
I love this place and had a great first experience here 1 month ago. However, I have to agree with the prior reviews I have seen on the awful rude bartender. The chick with the big 80's Flock of Seagulls hair cut was a total $&@# from start to finish. To men she was helpful, but the ladies were ignored & scowled at. I swear we are very tolerant of a bad day, but she was just ridiculously rude to the point of entertainment value. We literally laughed. The guy behind the bar was nice in the past and nice this time too, but did not have the balls to step up and say something. He even gave us a few sympathetic looks. Quick tip: fire the beast. She can play nice with my man all night but mama holds the wallet. :)
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Review from Lisa A.
Austin, TX
8/31/2007
That's it! It's all settled. You're all welcome to my 70th Birthday Party at Leon's Lounge (date and time TBD). Since Leon's has been open since 1947 I'm quite certain it will still be around in 40(ish) years!
What a terrific place to find yourself with strangers! The bartender is fun and helpful and remembers your name (I'm sure wearing a name tag helps). The beer is ridiculously cheap! They've got plenty of fun and games: darts, pool table, and a terrific jukebox. Plus, the clientele is a kooky mix and a maybe a little rough around the edges but we were all there for the same purpose -- a cold drink.
I particularly like the atmosphere and the eclectic decorating that's probably as accurate as carbon dating: 1800s stain glass windows, silver candelabras, beautiful chandeliers, pleather 70's lounge chairs (I'd half expect Merv Griffin to appear and interview me in those chairs), a metal deco wall decoration...now that I think of it the carbon dating may end around 1979.
If that isn't enough for you Little Joe Washington might show up (if you're lucky) and make the piano come alive with a few blues songs. Then your Leon's Lounge experience is complete! -
Review from Janelle B.
Houston, TX
3/22/2008 ROTD 10/25/2008
It seems that I'm not the first one to be more impressed by the bartender here than anything else. His name is Jason. He's cool. Friendly, professional, and personable, he knows just how to handle the kinds of drunken confessions that only a bartender is privy to hear.
But we aren't here to talk about bartenders, we're here to talk about the place itself. And I like it. I recommend it. It's very non-pretentious, which is essential for making me feel at home. Laid back, casual, easygoing. This is the kind of place you can let down your hair and unwind.
The rooms are rather split and separated though, it's an odd layout. You've got the front room with the bar, a side room with billiards and other such games, and yet another room with a piano and a homeless man who talks too much.
Is that mean? The homeless man, though, apparently is always here, and definitely is part of the experience. At first he is charming. He's entertaining and he clearly loves being center stage. But after a few minutes, you realize that his speech is not winding down anytime soon. You start to want him to leave so that you can go back to socializing with your friends. And he is not going to leave.
All the same, though, what could possibly fill out the experience of a true dive bar, better than being serenaded by a friendly, slightly crazy indigent older fellow? -
Review from Gretchen P.
Houston, TX
4/14/2009
Why is it that I want to start every review of a dive bar with "I love this place?" Actually I do, I just rewrite those intros. So here's how I'll start this one:
Leon was a bookie. That's what I was told by the bartender. I'd asked whose framed, folded flag was hanging above a doorway and was given that juicy tidbit. It had belonged to Leon, the bookie. Apparently there was originally one entrance and five exits. Awesome. I looked for a game of craps, but was lucky to have not found one. No telling what dangerous ghosts would have been involved in that scenario.
As I walked through the bar, I noticed a seedy feeling. Very vague, but present none the less.
The main room, where the old wooden bar lives, has a sketchy, you're being watched feel to it. Perhaps it was the regulars sitting at the bar cutting glances at us, but I also felt as if history was staring me down. Like a storied past was giving me the once over for never visiting it. And with it's storied past, I'm not a bit surprised.
At the back of this room, I got the feeling once again. I spotted my absolute favorite qualifier in the dive bar equation: the juke box. Sitting on a wooden pedestal, this old dear looked at me sadly when I only put a dollar in. When fellow Yelper, Mike, put in enough for an additional thirty songs, both Jaire and Mike were lucky to be able to type in a couple of their selections. Two minutes later, I'd dialed up a list of awesomeness. My choices were of course scrutinized. (I just want to apologize to everyone that evening, jukeboxes with seventies, sixties, eighties, and hair metal gems turn me into a maniac with crack addict like tendencies.)
Beyond this room, is a lounging area. Basically it's just a anteroom with a low table and seventies-esque stuffed chairs. To the left, a game room with a pool and Foosball table. To the right was a back bar that smelled of stale ghost and wood. There were several old registers, an old piano with candelabra, and more chairs. Beyond the lounging area was the outdoor area/gated space between the two buildings. Not so "ghosty" out there with it's beer banner hanging along one wall, but I was still a little apprehensive.Listed in: Where everybody shouts your…
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Review from Cory O.
Houston, TX
Updated - 6/13/2008
I'd like to drop this review a few more stars, but I can't completely justify doing so since my issues aren't necessarily the fault of the establishment. However, it has been months since the "incident" and I'm still irked, so down one star you go.
We'd planned the going away party for Ms. Fayza at Leon's to commemorate her time as the Houston CM and to wish her adieu on her move to SF. That being said, my previous experiences at Leon's (minus the parking issues) have always been great and wonderful. I'd always heard there was a local celebrity that entertained guests on the piano, but had never met him before. That was my (un)lucky night.
Yes, Little Joe Washington is famous. And talented.
No, I'm not a fan of him.
Joining the party and playing on the piano for tips is understandable. After receiving tips, staying around to badger us for more money and then harass certain members is not. Racist comments are just not going to put me into a giving mood--go figure.
Again, though it isn't the bar's fault that Little Joe can be a jerk, it has forever tainted my feelings towards the place. And though I love the place, I doubt I'll be heading back any time soon in hopes of living out the rest of my days without running into him again.Listed in: Some of my favorite dive bars, Bullseye!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/28/2007
I love dive bars. I do. It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside to walk into a place and have that… Read more »
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Review from Kevin N.
10/24/2009
Um, whoa, Leon, what in the For Crying Out Loud is going on here? I dropped in here on the tail end of an epic couple of days that saw me ciimb and descend the same batch of stairs give or take a billion times (I may exaggerate somewhat, but trust me, there were stairs, there were lots of them, and I was climbing those suckers). I was so wiped, in fact, that when the esteemed Lisa A suggested something else I basically replied with 'well, you lead, I'll follow.' Even the dim can occasionally burn bright, and how cool it was that we found this place on the back end of a full day.
I admit to being a little clouded by the cheery skies, and was a blank snowglobe of enthusiasm when we hit Leon's afterward. Cockails, friends, family, a smiling barkeep who's feigning thirsty. We'll see. But for now, thanks for being such an important part of all that's going right thus far. Viva!Listed in: Houston Means I'm One Step…, Drinking in Houston
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Review from Nikki B.
Dallas, TX
10/31/2009
I WANT A LEON'S IN DALLAS
That could suffice as all I want to say, but that wouldn't give you a very good inclination as to *why* I want a Leon's in Dallas, now would it?
Leon's reminded me a lot of the Loon back home, but smaller and a lot cooler. If I ever had to move to Houston, it would definitely be my regular hang out.
First of all, it just has a cool vibe. Everyone seemed to know everyone and it was obvious when we walked in that we were out of towners. But they weren't rude about it, more like looked at us then turned back to their conversation.
The bartender quickly become one of my favorite people in the world - sooo friendly and nice, and treated me like he has known me for years. The pours were strong and the prices made me a happy camper. For all that we had we should have had a much higher tab, but I guess either we got a hook up or they're just plain cheap.
The music was great and I really enjoyed the random piano players, although one of them came by our table haggling us for a tip and I was a little off-put by it.
Next time I'm in town I'm going to Leon's again. No questions asked.Listed in: Yelping all over Houston
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Review from Jaire Q.
4/12/2009
I went to Leon's lounge after a hockey game at Toyota Center. When we made it there we found parking right away, but I can tell parking can be a problem. We stepped out of the car and Eren M didn't believe we were in the right place, it just looks a little questionable from the outside. We found the door and went it. The first thing we saw as we walked in was the narrow space to walk to the back. Once there we met with the rest of the Yelp squad and discovered the great things about this bar.
Thanks to Mike W, we had 30 songs to choose for our musical entertainment. However, the jukebox played about 5 and then decided to stop working. The bartender was nice enough to go fix it, but didn't offer to reimburse mike for the other 25 songs we purchased. Moving on.. I really enjoyed the look of the place. It seems fancy in a antique rustic kind of way (visualize that!!). It actually has a lot of original touches to it. I have a thing for stained glass windows and couldn't get enough of the ones at Leon's lounge. I loved the dim room with the piano. I can so see myself just relaxing there enjoying the dimness. In reality the place is bigger than it seems, but still very compact.
They have a small alley outside used for smoking. We enjoyed a portion of our stay in the alley, while Gretchen and Tony smoked their fags (just learned what that means). I liked Leon's lounge and can see myself going back. -
Review from Danielle S.
Houston, TX
11/3/2009
Finally made it out to Leon's Lounge recently, when my friends and I were cruising for a bar on Halloween night that wasn't packed to the gills a la Montrose Pub Crawl. When we saw that Leon's was mercifully un-busy, we all let out a cry of victory.
My friends described this place as "a dive bar with chandeliers", and it's pretty much spot-on, both literally and metaphorically. There's nothing fancy about the place but since it's the oldest continually operating bar in Houston it's got a certain provenance of its own. The bartenders are no-nonsense and pour with a heavy hand--my whiskey soda was as it should be...whiskey first, THEN soda, which is a concept lost on many bars. My friend ordered a round of lemon drops and they were basically pure vodka with a little squeeze of lemon on top. Helloooo alcohol!
The interior isn't fancy but it's definitely warm and welcoming. There was a band playing when we were there, though I don't think Leon's is really set up to be a venue. There's a pool table in one room and out back is the requisite post-smoking-ban patio. The only negative in Leon's corner is the parking situation--we were able to jet across McGowen and snagged a parking space in a lot, but towing was a definite concern. Take the light rail and save yourself the headache, especially with McGowen completely torn up right now due to construction.
Maybe it was the spirit of the season or something, but the crowd was really agreeable and we even got everybody to yell "HAPPY MOTHERFUCKING HALLOWEEN" as we made our exit. I definitely see Leon's in my future thanks to its friendly crowd and historic setting.Listed in: Discussions and Drank
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Review from Christian C.
Kingwood, TX
2/26/2008
2.5 stars, for those who are saying this is the oldest bar are wrong. La Carafe, is Houston's oldest bar and has much more character.
This to be honest is just a normal bar stuck in a place where people expect glam. There really is nothing too special outside of the lighting fixtures and stained glass window. Sure you can play darts/pool/shuffleboard/jukebox, but thats avail in most bars. The bartenders/clientle are cool as this place is geared toward having the regulars pay the bills.
Overall I enjoy this place, but its not a bar I would drive across town for. Drinks are low priced, not incredibly difficult to find parking, and it is not loud so its a good choice to meet up friends there before you go out. -
Review from Adam O.
Houston, TX
8/31/2007
This place is great!
First off, the bartender is pure class. I walked up to the bar, ordered a beer, and started to bring out my wallet. He said "pal, you wanna start a tab?" I did, and I pulled out my credit card. His response: "don't worry about it pal, what's your name?" I then asked why he didn't take a credit card for the tab... "well buddy, I will just remember your name... and anyways, if you try to take off without paying... I have sized you up, I think I could catch you."
Honestly, can you beat that for a cool bartender? Although I feel a bit offended because I feel like I could have a fair shot in a footrace. Next time I go back I might have to challenge him.
As for the bar itself. It has comfy chairs, a dart board, a pool table, a piano (which was played on quite well by a man called Lil' Joe... something or other)... basically it is everything you need in a dive bar. Plus it is right next to the light rail and HCC... where I just so happen to be taking an accounting class. I might have to stop by Leon's after class... or depending on how work goes, maybe before.Listed in: the best and the worst of…
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Review from Rose K.
Boston, MA
12/6/2007
Everyone is dead on about the bartender. He is wonderful! So nice.
I totally didn't expect the inside of the place to look like it does, considering it's the oldest bar in Houston, and the looks of it on the outside. But it was so nice on the inside. All of the other rooms are really cute, and there are comfy chairs in the back.
Also, I really dug the jukebox.
And this place if uber close to my house! I'm so glad I went. I'll be back.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Jennifer W.
Schertz, TX
10/30/2007
As far as dive bars go, this was a classy joint. The bartender was excellent, and it made a great first stop for a night of mayhem.
I enjoyed the pool and darts while enjoying my Blue Moon served up in a pint glass and with a juicy slice of orange. The place wasn't that crowded, but there were a couple of people who appeared to be "regulars." Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of the experience was the bartender himself, who was knowledgeable, friendly, and just a classy guy (which is no small feat for a dive bar).
Leon's is unpretentious, self-aware, and an overall good time. On the outskirts of the strip of "frat-daddy-esque" bars, Leon's has good drinks, mellow times, and you can actually have a good conversation without the din of thumping techno or Top 40 pop. -
Review from Victoria S.
Austin, TX
6/2/2009
Where do I begin?
I have always wondered about this dive bar, but I finally went on Saturday, all i can say is thank god I had male protection. The bartenders were weird! I was on a "date" of sorts and me & my date are on the patio, then the bartenders just come over and sit with us and start talking about ramdom chit and one of them is flirting with my date it seemed. He and I were the only ones in there, except for the guy who lives above the bar and he was drunk and the bartender was yelling at him to get up to his room, just weirdness. They did however have a pretty cool piano room, too bad there was no piano player, i tried, but I cant play a note. This could be a really cool dive bar, but i dont know, it was kinda creepy, and i've been to dive bars on the lower height & ashbury, this place was just a big NOT.
Drinks were weak, in my opinion, but i think my date was almost drunk by the time we left, some people are light weights =) -
Review from Gemma A.
Houston, TX
5/4/2008
Leon's Lounge. A surprisingly wild & crazy little bar.
Who knew this seemingly forgotten dive bar was the place to start the weekend? I'd have to guesstimate about 100 or more of Houston's wildest hipsters knew it last Friday night.
My only other experience at Leon's was on a recent Sunday night when the place was basically empty. That "Seedy CD Sunday" night, the bartender indulged us by playing a silly CD I had in the car. This past Friday, Leon's had a live DJ spinning old Country Western tunes.
The main, narrow bar area was tightly packed with all sorts of folks, including leather vest-wearing, newbie bikers. My friends and I scored the more spacious pool table room and played there for most of the evening. Even the dark, cigar-bar-looking lounge in the back with the baby grand piano was teeming with people. The bathrooms were tiny. Barely room to reach around for toilet paper. But that's OK - there wasn't any!
If you like your bars loud and crowded and your drinks cheap and tasty, you're going to like Leon's. A tip for those who plan to stay until last call, consider leaving a bit early to beat the rush of everyone closing out their tabs at once.Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Cristane M.
Houston, TX
9/12/2008
My friends and I decided to visit Leon's for the first time for our Friday outing last week. I would have to agree that the bartenders are excellent and definitely give you your money's worth when pouring a drink...well more than your money's worth considering drinks were pretty cheap. We talked outside with the doorman who apparently worked at Ringling Brothers for awhile. There was a strange mix in terms of crowd which was definitely a plus. Everyone was friendly and about midnight the place really came to life with everyone coming through the doors at about that time, making the place really rowdy.
All in all, I was told it was a good call (it was my turn to pick a bar) and my friends and I vowed to return. We'd be back this week if it weren't for Ike! -
Review from Irfan S.
Houston, TX
2/12/2008
Awesome place, love the juke box, love the bartender, love the ambience, and love the non-yuppy feel to the place. It is the oldest bar in Houston.
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Review from Katharine S.
Houston, TX
6/13/2008
What can you say about Leon's that hasn't already been said? Like its bosom buddy, La Carafe, it's refreshingly yuppie-and-aged-frat-boy-free. The happy hour prices are great, especially for Midtown. The bartenders are reliably friendly and provide great service. There are tons of little areas to hunker down in for the evening; cozy spots abound, especially good for date nights! The location always makes you feel like it's your own, personal treasure, tucked away from the rest of the world yet right in the middle of the city. Leon's quite simply rocks.
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Review from Andrew P.
Houston, TX
5/10/2011
Went here with some friends on a Saturday evening. The bartenders were cool and got everything I wanted for myself and my friends. The interior decor was very unique and has a soft comfortable feel to it, but we sat outside. The staff was quick to come by and pick up empty glasses and everything about the experience was very no-BS and straight to the point. Love it!
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Review from LAWJISTIK -.
Houston, TX
11/2/2007
This is a great Atmosphere bar...great decor....
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Review from Victoria H.
Houston, TX
4/6/2009
This place is great for getting away from the crowds or to grab a drink before getting on the light-rail to Reliant (you can actually park in their lot and leave your car!) The prices are excellent considering that their standard "pour" is 1.5X that of other bars! This place feels fancy in a antique way that I find quite charming. The bartenders are always available for conversation, so if you're waiting for others to join, you're never alone!
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Review from Sandra V.
Houston, TX
7/31/2009
Poor Leon's has taken a turn to yuppie-dom. I haven't been here in years until recently. Previous owners are gone, place is cleaned up slightly, original bartenders replaced with some who don't know how to make a drink i.e. WEAK POUR. This used to be a regular hangout for me in the 90's and am so disappointed that it's changed for the worse.
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Review from Brenna S.
Houston, TX
2/12/2011
(2/10/11) My boyfriend and I recently tried this place after reading reviews about it being a dive bar with a piano and pool table. Upon arriving and chatting with other guests, we found out the place was under new management and no longer had the piano or the pool table. While I think eliminating the pool table and piano was a step down, the drinks were creative, well-poured and reasonably priced. The bartenders were friendly and happy to make recommendations. The decor was nice; the place is obviously recently re-done and definitely no longer has a divey quality. It was not very busy but there appeared to be several regulars. I think the smaller number of patrons was amplified by the fact that there is a lot of seating, which will be nice as the place gains in popularity. I would definitely recommend for a low-key night with friends or a date. Also, the music played was an eclectic mix, in a very good way.
