Léon 1909 - Shelter Island

“I came to Hamptons for only couple of days and we found this restaurant by accident. Turned out to be one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. Very underrated place Especially recommend to try their burger (trust me)”

“Leon 1909 is unquestionably the best restaurant on the East End of Long Island, and ranks right up there with some of the best in the city. The service is unmatched anywhere out east. GM Chris Clark greets you at the door and sets you up for an evening of unparalleled hospitality. This restaurant isn’t staffed with seasonal folks on Shelter for the summer; they are all pedigreed staff from fine restaurants in NYC and beyond. Inevitably your first experience with Leon 1909 will be a cocktail from Gillian Georges, whose cocktail menu is inventive and tasty and executed to perfection. Gillian managed to make even the somewhat polarizing Egg Nog absolutely irresistible for the holidays! The best seats in the house may possibly be at the bar, which is always lively and entertaining, and that’s saying a lot because if you’re at the bar, your back is likely to Leon’s showstopper of an open flame kitchen, roasting up chicken, meats and vegetables that make the ferry ride to Shelter feel more like a pilgrimage than a boat ride. The menu at Leon is thoughtful and perfectly executed - there is never a dish that doesn’t leave you wanting for more. Entering Leon 1909 with its warm fire and beautiful interior is like walking into a well curated party that you are suddenly very excited you were invited to. Buzzy without being loud, and energetic without losing the personal attention from the warm and knowledgeable staff. There are many reasons that discerning diners from the north and south forks, as well as the city, happily make their way to Shelter Island for dinner at Leon 1909.”

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Last night at Leon’s was undoubtedly the best evening yet at what more and more of my friends are calling the best restaurant in the Hamptons, and I can vouch that it’s true! Situated in the middle of Shelter Island, this gem is a five minute car ferry ride from Sag Harbor and 10 from Greenport. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by Chris, the head manager, whose warm smile and genuine hospitality set the tone for a fantastic night. It was impressive, especially considering the challenges he and the team faced after the island had shut down due to a terrible storm the night before. Yet, he managed to create an inviting atmosphere, making us feel right at home, even on one of the busiest evenings of the year. And the place was spotless! Entering the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by the beautiful hearth fireplace, and the intoxicating aromas of grilled seafood and chicken wafting through the air. Kudos to the creatively brilliant head chef, Armond, who has masterfully crafted a summer menu that celebrates the hyper local seafood of the region. Each dish was a treasure trove of flavors, encouraging a reorientation of the senses to the hyper-local delights of Northeastern seafood. Nearly everything on the menu at this beautiful restaurant is a little bit of a revelation. The menu thrilled us with both new tastes and beloved classics. I was particularly taken by the half chicken, marinated in a secret brine and slow-cooked over an open fire, delivering a delicate and savory experience. The Bluefin Tuna Belly, served with Nasturtium, Surf Clam, Ají Dulce, and Cilantro, sidestepped the typical blandness often found in seafood dishes. The Montauk Red Shrimp Crudo, reminiscent of Sicily, was perfectly marinated with punchy Elderflower Vinegar and garnished with Salted Kumquat, fresh herbs, and dill. Our favorite Caesar salad, crafted with a secret blend of Breadcrumbs, Black Pepper, and Parmesan, was a delightful addition. And the Dry-Aged Ribeye was nothing short of perfection—peppery, juicy, and grilled to buttery bliss. Despite being in the thick of the second serving rush, the waiting staff remained attentive and efficient. I always admire a well-organized team that works seamlessly together, and Chris and his leadership team truly exemplified that. Our waiter Yee was exceptional. When our food arrived, the table erupted with excitement over the sassy bites and novel taste sensations. At the end, on our way out we exchanged a few words with Gillian, the bar manager who was gracious and left us with a kind smile. The perfect ending to the evening. Leon’s continues to impress with its commitment to quality and exceptional service. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in the Hamptons, Leon’s on Shelter Island is the place to be. I can't wait to return and explore more of the culinary wonders this gem has to offer!”

“*My only complaint, if you’re going to charge that much for a burger add fries with it. Leon 1909 is a true hidden gem — a refined, intimate dining experience that’s clearly crafted with love and attention to detail. From the moment we stepped in, we were taken by the warm, European farmhouse feel — cozy lighting, beautiful woodwork, and a layout that feels both elegant and welcoming. The food is outstanding. Every dish we tried felt both rustic and elevated — perfectly seasonal, beautifully plated, and absolutely delicious. The wood-fired oven adds a subtle depth of flavor to many of the dishes, and the menu is thoughtfully curated with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Standouts included the roasted chicken (incredible), fresh pastas, and the grilled vegetables — simple but unforgettable. The wine list is well-chosen, featuring small producers and thoughtful pairings, and the service was seamless. Friendly, knowledgeable, and never rushed. It’s definitely on the pricier side — this isn’t an everyday dinner spot — but for a special occasion or a night when you want to treat yourself to something memorable, it’s worth every penny. You’re not just paying for a meal, but for an atmosphere and experience that stays with you. Leon 1909 delivers that rare balance of comfort and sophistication, and it’s easily one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in the area. Highly recommend for food lovers who appreciate the details.”

“Despite our last-minute reservation, the host was welcoming. The food was exceptional - fresh, flavorful, and creatively prepared. Cocktails stood out with house-made ingredients. Service was attentive and professional. Appetizers came out quickly, and while the mains took a bit longer due to a full house, the waiter let us know ahead of time, which we really appreciated. Overall, fantastic dining experience from start to finish.”