Our office building is right across the street from Leon's so we visit often! I try oh I try to remember to pack a lunch or get myself to go grocery shopping elsewhere because yes it is a bit more expensive, but in a pinch or when you're in the mood for some comfort food from the deli hot case, it's a great resource to have. I often find things here I might find in a health market or specialty store, like crackers or chips or special sauces. Even the butter my husband LOVES to ship in from Europe is available on the shelves.
That being said, sometimes the deli food is a little hit or miss. Even the same dishes aren't consistent. Mac and cheese is amazing on most days, but sometimes it's eh. Just last week I had some yummy beef and noodles (I picked out the celery) and when I just want something plain, I'll get chicken strips with mashed potatoes. They also don't have many veggie options, wish they did, especially because dinners come with two sides and I often go for two starches if there isn't a veggie option. So as far as being healthy, yeah, not so much. As I write this review I'm eating some sort of an Alfredo noodle, mushroom soup, ham mixture and it's not really as good as I had hoped for. The meatloaf is almost always pretty good and the menu constantly changes so you're in for a real treat or surprise each time you visit. As far as the pre made sandwiches and sandwich spreads, I have sampled a few. I really like the ham salad (it's actually bologna not ham) and the chicken salad (which is actually turkey) but one time I had the salmon spread and it made me very sick. Some things are super fresh, some things not so much. I also often times get freshly sliced deli ham and make a lettuce wrap.
As another reviewer mentioned, Leon's has its own distinct smell. It's more old versus fried chicken but yeah, I don't really like that part of it. But there is a nice selection of gourmet meats and cheeses. Sometimes I've found spoiled produce, which is to be expected at any grocery really. I have yet to try any of the meat from the butcher but I've heard they have some of the best cuts!
One thing I can say with confidence is the customer service is top notch. The ladies in the deli (sometimes there is a young boy or two back there and they aren't as friendly) are awesome. It takes me forever to make a selection, they are patient. Sometimes I like to try things, and they let me no problem. Sometimes I ask for a little more and they oblige. I visit often but even from the beginning, they strived to remember me and treat me like a regular or a friend. And the cashiers are always very helpful and if I happen to run into the manager, he knows I'm from across the street and greets me. It's a great neighborhood market, albeit a bit pricey, worth a visit now and again. I have yet to go for one of their foodie Fridays where you get to sample the goodies. I hope to make one soon.
They also have a great deal during the summer where they grill burgers, brats, hot dogs and steak skewers outside and serve up a cold drink and chips. I don't remember the cost but it's pretty cheap and the meats are top quality. read more
