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Cafe Leonelli

3.6 (83 reviews)
ModerateItalian, Cafes
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CAFE LEONELLI ATMOSPHERE

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Touristy
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Outdoor seating

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Recommended Reviews - Cafe Leonelli

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Nice lighting
Arie M.

All looks but little substance unfortunately. At first glance this place is beautiful. It's big, it's clean, it has outdoor seating, indoor seating, and they even have food, pastries. Also, this is right across from the MFAH on Bissonnet so don't go by what google maps tells you. Customer service on the other hand is pretty bad. The person I was with was asking the kid taking the order whether some of their deserts were gluten free and the kid started acting weird and almost getting upset because it was such a hard question. It could have been as easy as "I'm sorry, I don't know, but I can ask my manager and get back with you!" but his reaction was just awkward. And then for me, on a 100 degree day, I asked for Iced Tea, after the person ahead of me got one and I was told "Sorry, that was the last one". This was around 5 PM and they close at 6 so I'd understand that if it was 15 minutes till closing and they didn't want to brew a whole new batch, but with another 50 minutes to go, they likely would have still sold a few more cups before closing and even if they didn't, at the prices they charge, even selling one cup of iced tea would have covered the cost of the big tea-bag they use for iced tea so if they had to throw a little out after closing, it'd just be a cost of doing business. I mean the place is cute so I probably will be back but they need to train their people better here.

Menu Feb. 2023
David P.

We went looking for an Italian bakery in the area and found Café Leonelli. I did not get anything due to concerns of cross-contamination between the Hazelnut gelato and the Almond Croissant with other pastries. A very spacious, sun-lit café in the Museum of Fine Arts. Maps isn't going to help you getting here, since it's in the museum and parking is elsewhere. We parked on a Sunday afternoon on Main Street outside St. Paul's Methodist Church and walked over. There are two entrances to Café Leonelli: (1) from inside the museum itself, and (2) from the left side of the museum (facing it from Bissonnet Street) in a little walkway. The café prices are high, as anticipated by a restaurant for convenience inside of the museum. We sampled the butternut squash soup, which was a bit sweet; and the Tuscan soup, which was a bit salty. There are other sandwiches, hot foods, and pizza available for entrees. Coffee, tea, pastries, and gelato are also available. Complimentary water is available at multiple locations in the café, which is nice.

Slice of Margherita Chicken Caesar Salad
Allysa O.

I found this cafe on TikTok after looking for a local place to "work from home" during the day. Turns out, it is connected to the Museum of Fine Arts (MFAH). I arrived at about 9:30AM and it was super quiet. I loved the lighting in this cafe, it was very bright and airy. I ordered an oat milk latte that was really good. Once lunchtime came around, the cafe became flooded with people (mostly museum visitors). Before the rush, I ended up trying the margherita pizza and the chicken Caesar salad. Both were just okay in my honest opinion, but not much is to be expected of cafe food. The menu is not very robust, it's just cafe food with an Italian style menu as there were lots of pizzas and bread, and a salad bar. It was quite limited in options. I really enjoyed working in this space before the lunch crowd rushed in, there are tall glass walls and I had a nice view of the museum statues and the street. I'd come back for a morning working session, but the lunch crowd was a bit too loud and hectic for me to work, so I left shortly thereafter.

Thuy P.

I came back last week for desserts after eating lunch elsewhere and finally good a good desserts this time at Cafe Leonelli. The eclairs this time wasn't dried as last time.

Slice of Sausage and broccolini/ Slice of Margherita
Michelle O.

The flavors and textures of the Slice of Sausage and Rapini and Slice of Margherita, which I shared with my sister, were pretty good. You choose from the slices that are in the display case, then it goes into the oven to be heated up. The cheese is melted, and the dough gets crispy. They hand you the slices on plates while you're in the line, and then you pay at the register. The fennel seeds's flavor was apparent, and I like how the cheese had toasted. The mozzarella on the Margherita had softened enough to be enjoyable, while the tomato had a slight blistered edge.

Margherita pizza slice
Maria S.

This is a beautiful place and convenient for hanging out after visiting the MFAH. It was about 4 p.m. and they were already out of the tomato gnocchi soup. Mind you, they close at 6 p.m. Plus at $4.50 for a small cappuccino, they should have brown sugar available. If you're a member of the museum, you get a 15 percent discount.

"Moon Dust" by Spencer Finch (2014)
Inga C.

A great museum café is part of the experience. Cafe Leonelli makes a trip to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston even more satisfying. The menu ranges from satisfying hot entrées (salmon, potatoes, etc.) to soups, salads, and sandwiches. They have kid-friendly foods like cheese pizza, and also pizzas with flavorful toppings. For beverages, they have coffees, teas, and Italian sodas. There are self-service water carafes. For desserts, they have chocolatey brownies, as well as several flavors of gelato. As any good museum café should, the surroundings elevate the experience. You might think the light fixture is just a light fixture, but it's actually an installation: "Moon Dust" by Spencer Finch (2014).

Mushroom (top) and Margherita (bottom) focaccia breads
Gin Y.

This cafe was conveniently located within the Kinder building and had adequate outdoor dining tables. So, if you were visiting this museum, this is a great one stop shop. We had to go to the museum across the street, though. But, we decided to get a quick bite here first. We wanted something savory for this visit and settled on their mushroom and margherita focaccia breads. They were pretty good. They both had punchy flavors, but I wished they had put more sauce and toppings on the bread since they were quite pricey. They did have beverages available, but we opted for their sparkling water. It was ok. I wished they had Topo Chico. Oh well. Overall, I'm giving them a 3.5 stars for now. But, I do plan on trying out their desserts next time. They look delicious from the pictures. I'll have to give their coffee drinks a try too.

Veggie focaccia sandwich
Jessica H.

This cafeteria style cafe was set up in a way that some of the offerings were just as you walked in but had to turn the corner to read the menu and see the hot offerings. The options were plentiful but my veggie sandwich was just ok. The gelato was excellent. They had a lot of staff behind the counter but none clearing the garbage or self service bus pan.

Mango passion sorbet
Natalie E.

Café leonelli is it quaint, modern bistro, perfect for a snack or a lunch. They had a variety of sandwiches and salads and hot plates, as well as a European pastry case and gelato and sorbet. I ended up getting the mango passion sorbet and it was refreshing, tart, and berry smoothies. It is attached to the Kinder building, but you don't have to be visiting the museum to eat here. If you were an MFAH member you do get a discount, I think 10%.

Eggplant Parmesan
Wendy W.

Review #2 We have a Michelin star chef in the house Houston! Chef Jonathan Benno has an impressive resume. Working in San Fransisco and of course New York City. Yes he even worked along side Daniel Boulud!!! How's that Houston, Texas!! I was laughing tremendously because a Yelper compared Cafe Leonelli to Houston's Common Bond. I almost wet my pants. Y'all this is NOT EVEN remotely the same. Two totally different concepts. Isn't Common Bond French influenced? Cafe Leonelli is Italian influenced. Lord help us all with some of these Yelpers! Located directly across from the MFAH Sarfin building which actually seems if it is on Bissonnet, but the address seems to be on Main. Confusing. It is located in the MFAH Kinder building. Beautifully lit with wall to wall windows to let in natural light. Modern lights hang from the ceiling, with minimalistic decor. Remember this is a cafe, so prices are extremely reasonable. Food ranges from fresh pasta, baked pasted, porchetta sandwiches, salads, sweet breads and deliciously eye appealing pastries. I was excited to dine the first weekend after opening. Extremely exceptional service with a wonderful atmosphere. Order at the counter and the food will be brought to you. One side of ordering is strictly for sweet treats and the r other side order anything. It will make sense you get there. Remember MFAH receive a discount so be sure to show them your membership!

Lasagna
Dan A.

Museum Cafes are usually best kept secrets with great lunch selections and coffee/snack/dessert options. Leonelli meets this billing. Quite busy on a Thursday afternoon around 1:30. Thursday is free for general admission so possibly why?- as well their reasonable prices We mixed it up with ordering lunch (Lasagna) and Dessert (Apricot Crostata Della Nonna) with a Cortado. Tasty lasagna with spinach and mix of beef/pork filling. I asked which pastry, Crostata or Babka? The Apricot was excellent with a good balance of fruit and cookie crumble. Will try the Babka next time. They had some sandwiches, flat breads as well ice cream. You line up to place your order and they bring your food/drinks to your table. Friendly people behind the counter, making the food and delivering to the tables. Plenty of windows and light in the dining area make for a pleasant experience. Work this spot into your MoFa visit!

Anthea R.

Open, and minimalist decor makes this cafe feel clean, and welcoming. They have gelato, sorbets, pastries, desserts, breakfast options, as well as lunch. Breakfast is from 8-11 am, and lunch starts after 11am. I ordered the lemon meringue , and strawberry mascarpone pate choux. Loved the lightness of the pastry and the creams were just right and not too sweet. The cornetto (Italian croissant )breakfast sandwich was delicious. So flaky that I wanted to have more. I also got the dark chocolate babka. IT is my favourite from this place now. So many brioche layers with generous dark chocolate oozing with every fork stabs. Their flat breads are delicious too because they are made fresh daily. The ricotta and meatball, and margherita were just yum! So if you haven't had the chance, I'd recommend trying this place out before or after a museum visit, or just go for the food!

Slice of Pepperoni, Chicken Caesar Salad, Carrot Cake

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1 year ago

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4 months ago

I will add more about my experience later but over all this was the perfect space to meet for a meet up instead of going to a coffee shop

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Magdalena's Trattoria & Pizzeria - Our outdoor spread -- two wood-fired pizzas, a Robiola cheese board, antipasto, and Italian wine. The patio at its best.

Magdalena's Trattoria & Pizzeria

(135 reviews)

West University

A friend and I went for a late lunch, and had the most lovely experience!…read more The food was all absolutely wonderful, the service impeccable, the staff very gracious. We sat on the patio and even though we were there for two hours our server never missed a beat! We ordered a bottle of Prosecco to start and he was always there right before our wine glasses were empty to refill them, and then again to get us started on something else when the bottle was gone. Our waters were never empty, as soon as a plate was cleared it was gone, as we finished a slice of pizza he was there to serve our next. The food was all lovely: we had the insalata Bianca and the arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, we both agreed the arugula salad was our favorite, I'm not usually a fan of a salad with just arugula in it, but this was so good I'm going to go home and try to duplicate the dressing so I can make all the time! We then had the Rabiola and Salsiccia E Friarielli pizzas, both cooked perfectly, our server recommended the rabiola and so glad we got it! Finished off with great coffee and the chef brought us out these amazing little dark chocolate truffles and biscotti to go with it. Honestly, one of the best restaurant experiences I've ever had. I wish I lived here so I could go again soon! But I will definitely be back next time I am in Houston!

Glad to see they have improved. Pluses…read more1. Nice outdoor patio 2. Pizza this time was crispy on the bottom (last time was soft) 3. Carbonara was hot and tasty not soggy and cool like last time 4. Trio gelato great, hazelnut our favorite because the texture was just right 5. Glass of muffatto dessert wine is delicious 6. Owner chef stopped by to say hi Areas to improve 1. Music is too loud for me and the selection is strange - rap, reggae, rave, etc - just turn off the music 2. Carbonara portion was small Great local spot and we will be back. Highly recommended and good value for good Italian.

Mimo - Risotto at the top and ragu penne at the bottom

Mimo

(109 reviews)

Eastwood

Went here for a late dinner date and I cannot recommend it enough! The service was quick and easy…read more Our waiter was so helpful in going over the menu for us. We ordered two different pastas to try and fritters to start. The vibes were IT for both a date night or to have a chill night with a big group. I think the menu had a good variety in each course without it being overwhelming, I will be going back to try their large selection of wine and more of their dishes!

Went here last night for an early Valentine's Day dinner. We use the InKind app and had picked up…read moresome gift cards from Costco, noticed this spot was on InKind, and decided to check it out -- really glad we did! First off, it's located in a cool little pocket on the East End inside Tlaquepaque Market. It looks a bit dark from the outside at night, but once you step in, it's warm and cozy. There's also plenty of parking, which is always a plus. My wife and I shared the pane along with their Valentine's Day prix fixe menu, which included an appetizer, salad, pasta, and dessert. The pane came out warm - perfectly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.The starter was a scallop with pomegranate vinaigrette that was light, bright, and a great way to open up the palate. The salad (I think it was purple kale, but I forgot to ask) was fresh and well-balanced. For the main, we had a pasta dish topped with a ribeye meatball that featured a bold sauce with tons of flavor, and the meatball had a subtle kick to it. Dessert was a cherry gelato that was simple, refreshing, and the perfect way to end the meal. They also have a solid wine selection, which paired nicely with dinner. Service was great - our server Philip was clearly busy but still made sure to check on us regularly. Overall, this is a great East End date-night spot. They also have a spacious outdoor patio that feels like it was pulled straight out of an Italian backyard. We'll definitely be back.

Mia Bella Trattoria - Seafood Capellini

Mia Bella Trattoria

(806 reviews)

$$

Greenway

We were well taken care of. Kara was our hostess and she was very tentative to all our needs. Her…read moresmile was with her the entire night. I appreciate the service she provided. I also met Nico and he was tentative as well. I plan on dining here more in the future and will gladly refer you to my family and friends. The food was very tasty and appeasing to the eye. We all took pictures of our plates. Thank you!

Once upon a time I visited here for a lunch meeting…read more Last night we were out and about without the small human and decided to check it out. Suffice to say, we have this on our go back and keep trying the dishes list. Everything was excellent. Emilio, our server was great, the restaurant itself is open but cozy, and they dimmed the lighting as the sun went down and it was really nice. Our glasses stayed full, and the food was amazing. We got the mushroom pastry thing from the appetizers - perfection. The pastry itself was a knockout but the "sauce" was *chefs kiss*. It's something I already desperately want to recreate at home but know it won't get there, c'est la vie. Anyways, the specials sounded amazing but we settled for giving the regular menu a whirl. He had the seafood lasagna and I had the chicken piccata. Both were excellent. Their chicken piccata take is better than the standard version - highly recommend. Hubs said the lasagna was great too. All in all, we loved everything, can't wait to go back. I'd also rate Mia Bella extremely high on value - for service, food quality, and portion size they're very reasonable on cost.

Impero Italiano - Margherita pizza

Impero Italiano

(438 reviews)

$$

Energy Corridor

authentic, amazing Italian food. this place is not something that you see or can find these days.read more

Idk why some folks are hootin n hollerin about the rules page on the menu- everything written there…read more isn't anything out of the ordinary and makes sense. Some of y'all are silly gooses Anyway, my friend and I came by on a Thursday night and it was pretty busy! The inside of the restaurant is decorated with so many Italian knick knacks which gives this place a cozy vibe. Instead of ordering an appetizer and an entree, my friend and I decided to order 3 things from the appetizer menu: Arancini Montanare Impepata Napoletana The arancini was delicious! The exterior/crust wasn't too thick and was fried nicely. As for the filling, it had cheese, beef, and tomato sauce- yum! I really enjoyed the montanare because it came with 3 different toppings. Not to mention, the bread was fantastic! All 3 were great but my favorite was the one with smoked provolone, anchovy, and the red chili on top (I believe that's what the red topping is). The Impepata Napoletana was another solid dish- loved the white wine sauce with garlic and pepper. Although it was a tad bit too salty for me, it paired nicely with the bread. For dessert, my friend got the pistachio gelato and I ordered the Tiramisu. Both were a great way to end dinner. Food was wonderful, our waiter was very friendly/welcoming, and the vibes were lovely. This spot is a gem!

Aperitivo - The trio dip appetizer.

Aperitivo

(61 reviews)

$$$

Fifth Ward

We had a nice time at Aperitivo…read more One of the best looking restaurants in Houston. From the decor, the bar, views...everything is a vibe. Came in for my birthday after dinner. Service was great and the manager helped us get a better table even though they were completely booked. We had a random assortment of food. Oysters 4/5 Shrimp cocktail 3/5 Charcuterie board 5/5 I had really solid old fashioned and my wife had mezcal margarita which was also great. We then switched to wine for the rest of the night. It was raining when we first got there so the patio was closed. However, when we were almost done one of the waiters told us which door was unlocked and said make sure to go get some picture and enjoy the view. The view is one of the best around and we had it all to ourselves. Overall, a really nice way to end my Birthday and I would definitely recommend checking them out.

Aperitivo has been on my last for awhile now with the gorgeous interior and downtown skyline views…read more A group of my friends and I finally got the chance to visit, unplanned, on a Sunday evening while celebrating a birthday. The restaurant and bar is located on the top floor of the new East River complex. They have valet parking as well as free lot parking a couple of blocks away. Since the visit was a last minute decision, we did not have a reservation. The hostess informed us that they would be able to seat us but that drinks may be up to a 30 minute wait since they only had one bartender. We agreed and were seated at a large table inside. While skyline views always make a place special, Aperitivo raises the bar even further with lux design and interior accents that make it feel super elevated. In terms of drinks, they have a number of original cocktails that you won't be able to find anywhere else. My friend got the "caprese" which is prepared with tomato water and a mozzarella brine, which was translucent and had a hearty but balanced finish. An interesting drink for sure. I got the "Aperitivo spritz" which was very light and refreshing. Cocktails are all $18 and there is also an automatic 20% gratuity added to all checks. The drinks and ambience were great but unfortunately the service did not impress us. After being seated, we had some time to review the menu before our waitress approached the table. When she arrived, we did ask whether there would be a 30 minute wait for drinks after the host provided this warning due to the single bartender. She took the question defensively saying that she had a bunch of tables and got to our table when she could. I realize that the question could have been interpreted in the wrong way but will say that her response was not very customer service oriented. This was a little bit of a let down given that you are locked into a 20% gratuity.

Bellissimo - Tiramisu

Bellissimo

(82 reviews)

Independence Heights

WOW! Highly, highly recommended!!!…read more When we pulled in we were concerned due to neighborhood and exterior look of the restaurant ... Still gave a chance, and so glad we did! This food is amazing! One of the best Italian food we ever ate! Sauce, spice, time of the meat cook.. all perfection. Even it is 45 mins away from where we leave, we feel like we discovered our new Italian restaurant going forward.

1 star I don't…read moreusually leave reviews like this, but this one felt necessary. The staff was kind and welcoming, so service wasn't the issue. The problem was the food did not match the high reviews at all. My wife's lasagna came out looking like a giant block of tofu. It didn't resemble lasagna, the pasta felt rubbery, and the meat didn't even look like ground beef. She didn't feel comfortable eating it. Her Greek salad also looked off, like a mix between a Caesar salad and something random with feta on top. I ordered the Chelidra Rossa because I love red snapper. What I got was definitely not red snapper. It tasted and broke apart like old tilapia that had been sitting for days. The dish also only came with one shrimp, which was disappointing. The pasta, vegetables, and mushrooms were bland and had no flavor. The bread was not fresh. When I asked for vinegar, they brought another oil mixture that wasn't what I asked for. The calamari came with a dried-out lemon that had clearly been sitting, and I had to ask for fresh slices. The pizza also didn't taste right, and the cheese had a grainy texture that didn't melt like normal pizza cheese. For what we paid, the quality didn't come close to matching the price. We ate maybe 10 percent of our food and left. I honestly don't understand how people are saying this place has fresh pasta and fresh ingredients. Based on our experience, it clearly did not. Real, honest reviews matter, and this was ours. I really wanted to like this place, but this just wasn't it. I won't be returning.

Cafe Leonelli - italian - Updated May 2026

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