While Leo’s Coney Island remains closely tied to Metro Detroit, the chain will expand further North to Mount Pleasant.
Community and Economic Development Director Rodney Nanney said that Leo’s Coney Island is being constructed on the South side of Walmart and is expected to open in the summer of 2027.
Nanney said that this has been in the works since Nov. 19, 2024, when Union Township’s Planning Commission approved the preliminary site plan application for the restaurant’s new location.
The site plan laid the groundwork for a development featuring a 4,820 square foot building and a second 6,059 square foot retail and restaurant building. Township officials later issued a building permit for Leo’s restaurant on June 11.
According to the developer’s building permit application, the overall project is estimated to cost $1.8 million. Construction of the Leo’s Coney Island restaurant accounts for $750,000, while $600,000 is allocated for a second retail and restaurant building and the rest for site improvements including parking, lighting, sidewalks, landscaping and signage.
The second building will be a Big Chicken with a drive-thru, according to Union Township’s Dec. 14, 2024 meeting packet.
As the development moves forward, some nearby business owners are watching to see how the new restaurant may affect the local market.
Joe Powell, owner of Mancino’s on East Bluegrass Road, said he is not concerned that Leo’s opening will have a long-term effect on his business.
“Our customer base is mostly local with a mix of college students,” Powell said. “I would like to see more family local businesses here so that we, as a smaller business, don’t have to compete against cheap corporate chains.”
Also on East Bluegrass Road is Noodles and Company, a restaurant chain that specializes in freshly prepared noodle dishes, soups and salads. Ian Emmons, general manager for Noodles and Company, said he is excited for Leo’s opening.
“Leo’s will drive more traffic to businesses on Bluegrass,” Emmons said. “I am excited to have more of a consumer base recognizing the businesses here.”
