Alvin Leung has never been known for doing things the conventional way. The self-taught chef and television personality built The Leo around a visual idea that has long fascinated him. To Leung, a sunflower’s centre resembles a face, while its petals look like a lion’s mane. That connection led him to the Merlion, Singapore’s iconic half-lion, half-fish mascot, and ultimately helped shape the concept for The Leo. The result is a restaurant inspired less by traditional branding and more by Leung’s distinctive perspective.
The sunflower connection extends far beyond The Leo’s name. The space pays tribute to Vincent van Gogh, with a ground-floor ceiling inspired by The Starry Night and an upper level featuring sunflowers drawn from the artist’s most recognizable works.
Moving between the two floors feels like stepping between two of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings. It’s an ambitious concept, with Van Gogh-inspired elements woven throughout the restaurant.
Rather than offering an extensive menu, Leung has taken a more focused approach. He describes The Leo as a continuation of the philosophy behind his Hong Kong restaurant Bao, emphasizing a smaller selection of dishes done exceptionally well.
Food & Wine
Guests begin by choosing from nine appetizers, including crab cakes and Indonesian-style ox short rib onion soup, before moving on to shared mains centred around beef, lamb, pork, or seafood. Dishes can be paired with sauces such as Singapore chili, ginger chimichurri, or lemongrass Béarnaise.
Desserts are served as full portions, with options including baked Alaska and crème brûlée. The menu is designed for sharing, reflecting Leung’s focus on bringing people together around the table.
The wine program emphasizes Canadian producers, a choice Leung says is rooted in quality and value rather than prestige. For a chophouse built around bold flavours, the focus on Canadian wines feels like a natural fit.
With its art-inspired design and distinctive concept, The Leo offers a destination dining experience beyond Toronto’s downtown core.
The Details
- What: The Leo, celebrity chef Alvin Leung’s new art-inspired chophouse
- Where: 162 Enterprise Blvd., Markham, ON
- Cuisine: Premium steaks, seafood, and shareable dishes with Asian influences
- Hours: Wed–Thu 5 p.m.–9 p.m., Fri 5 p.m.–10 p.m., Sat 5 p.m.–11 p.m.
- Reservations: Available through The Leo’s website
- Website: The Leo
- Phone: (365) 559-0049
