We are proud to be behind the brand identity for Leo’s, now officially Houston’s Best New Restaurant — as named by the 2025 CultureMap Tastemaker Awards!

 

Branding Leo’s – River Oaks

“Refined, But Never Tame”

Designing the brand for Leo’s wasn’t just about looking good—it was about channeling legacy, luxury, and a whole lot of lion energy. Rooted in family ties and the bold heart of the Leo zodiac, the goal was to strike that sweet spot between timeless elegance and River Oaks-ready swagger.

 
 

Typography
We went on a full-blown font safari, hunting down typefaces that felt sharp but not shouty. The winner? A sophisticated serif with just enough muscle—classic, confident, and a little bit cocky (in the best way).

Lion Icon
Let’s talk lions. I sketched everything from royal crests to sharp geometric beasts before landing on a minimalist mark that roars quietly. Clean, powerful, and worthy of a gold foil finish.

 
 
 

Color & Mood
Picture gold glinting off glassware, forest green banquettes under soft lighting, and the subtle elegance of white linen. The palette sets a scene that’s rich and inviting—warm tones that whisper luxury without shouting ground the space, and add just enough drama to make it unforgettable.

Application
From menus to business cards and gift cards, every touch-point was designed with intention (and a bit of flair). The result? A brand that doesn’t just speak—it purrs, it prowls, and it knows it looks good doing it.