Leo's Coney Island DTW — Restaurant in Romulus

My wife and I had about a 2-hour layover at DTW airport on 7 Feb 2024, so we agreed to eat at this airport versus having to tough it out and wait until we arrive at our final destination. When we deplaned, we started to walk towards our gate for our connecting flight and tried to find a place that sounded good to eat en route to our new gate...we stumbled across this restaurant.

When we walked in, we were greeted nicely by one of the employees. Within seconds, we were escorted to our table, so right away, I figured it was going to be a pleasant experience. As I was sitting there, I decided to read some of the Google reviews that people left, and to be honest, I was really close to telling my wife to let's find another place because there were so many negative ratings/reviews. But, something I've always believed in is that you have to try things at least once...if not twice for validation of your first experience.

We ended up ordering the Hamburger, Gyro Sandwich, Onion Rings, and French Fries. Overall, the food was adequate; though, there was one thing I was slightly concerned over and that is the lack of onions on the hamburger. I can't recall if I've ever been to a restaurant that doesn't include onions on a traditional, American hamburger. Also, whenever I asked for the raw onion, they were going to charge me for it. I mean, from a business standpoint, I get it...you have to maximize your profits, but, from a customer's perspective, it's just onions...and honestly, it should be on there anyways. Nevertheless, my Onion Rings made up for the lack of raw onions...well, somewhat. Also, the fries were decent, but nothing to tell your friends and family about. And finally, we wished the Gyro had lettuce in it, even though to some, this may not be traditional. Personally, I think it's a good, added texture to it.

The prices were decent - I didn't expect a total bargain or a steal, considering I am dining at an airport. Our server (I think her name was Marissa), did a good job; she operated at a fast pace; she was consistent with all her customers, and she was extremely attentive. Frankly, the majority of the servers that were on shift did not seem or have the appearance of being unprofessional or rude to their customers. They all seemed to be doing their job and doing it effectively, from what I observed. So it's unfortunate that others had issues during their visit, if their complaints are even accurate in the first place.

Overall, I liked the food and service here - it's not world class dining in any way, but still a good place to stop in to get a decent bite to eat. Would I come back to this restaurant given the chance? Probably not anytime soon because I like to try different places and fortunately, DTW airport contains several different restaurants to try. However, I still recommend this restaurant to all passengers and airport employees. This restaurant isn't the best I've experienced, yet, it's not awful like a lot of people have been making it out to be either...or maybe I just got lucky? Regardless, no...

Growing up in Metro Detroit, I've been a Detroit style coney dog fan for years!! (See past reviews and pics). Had a layover at DTW today and had a coney craving. Stopped by Leo's Coney Island inside the airport main terminal. Now, while Leo's is not new to the Detroit coney scene, they are not one of the originals. The space they occupy in DTW was originally occupied by the National Coney Island chain which is definitely one of the originals.

I've had Leo's product multiple times (like I said, I'm a big coney fan!) but todays dog was subpar at its best.

First, the chili was not piping hot. Anytime you get a coney served, the sauce should be like lava hot!

Secondly, the bun. Now, the key to a good sandwich, burger or hot dog is the bun. These buns are below grade.: not quality, and did not taste fresh. Huge turn off.

Third, the main ingredient: the dog. Overcooked and tired, this dog didn't have that traditional "snap" or "bite" of the natural casing that is paramount for anyone claiming to serve up a Detroit style coney dog.

Fourth, the price was steep. Granted it was at the airport and everything is more expensive at the airport but why? Seriously, why? $5.50 w tax for a coney dog? Cmon folks. That's about 85% pure profit.

Fortunately for them they are an airport venue and they have a finite, continued and captive clientele to continue the business. Most folks will be one and done. Unfortunately for us as customers, they don't have a carrot to keep them trying to push out a quality product.

I hope they look for ways to improve but the next time I'm wandering through Detroit Metro Airport, I'm very unlikely to...

I would not recommend this establishment at all. I work at the airport and frequent a lot of the restaurants. It’s a shame when the poor customer service given by the one of the supervisors is main reason for customers not returning. There is a young supervisor with green and bluish colored hair that has the most horrible attitude that you could have for someone serving the public in the mornings. I’ve talked to my colleagues and was not surprised to discover that they have had similar experiences with this particular supervisor. The food is expensive, the wait time is long and there’s constant confusion on which side of the counter that they’re taking orders or delivering orders. I ordered a salad that took 12 minutes to receive while on a limited break with no apologies given for the wait. Thanks to their less than stellar management today will be my last time being a patron at this location. So if you like being greeted with a smile, or if you’re in a rush and you’re looking for some great customer service at a reasonable price this location is not the one to visit The establishment really should consider some coaching of their supervisors because at this point it will definitely impact their...