UNDER THE BAR - LEONARDS HOUSE OF LOVE

Interview and intro by Carolina Pasini | Photos by Jack Gruber

Welcome to Leonard’s House of Love, a '70s-inspired log cabin tucked away just off Chapel Street in South Yarra/Naarm, where every visit feels like the best ski-lodge-house-party you’ve ever crashed. This gem, brought to life by the creative minds behind The Sweetwater Inn, invites you to a world where the music is loud, the burgers are juicy, and the vibe is effortlessly cool.

Stepping inside Leonard’s, you’re immediately greeted by the warmth of double-sided stone fireplaces, timber-panelled walls, and a buzzing atmosphere reminiscent of the grooviest rec room. The food is hearty and indulgent with an epic bar serving up easy-drinking lagers, fruity cocktail jugs, and a quirky wine list, ensuring there’s something for every taste. 

We sat down with their venue manager, Andy, to talk about their history, drinks tricks and their special bond with their community.

CP | What do you like most about working at Leonards?

A | Fostering a community of like minded folk who feel welcome in our space. We’ve been around for nearly nine years and in that time you see a lot of people come and go, whether they’re behind the bar or leaning off it. I like to think every one of them has contributed to what this space is today. Folks have celebrated here, folks have commiserated, lovers have met and lifelong bonds created. That’s the beauty of the local. I mean doors were first opened in 2015 - the whole world has changed in that time! We’re still here, still truckin’, and we’ve been lucky enough to cross paths with more than our fair share of beautiful people. I think that should be celebrated.

CP | What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen or heard while working?

A | Schrödinger's screwdriver! A vodka orange that had been knocked off a ledge and landed perfectly upside down so as to seal the contents of the drink and not spill. We were all in hysterics wondering how to clean it up as it wasn’t yet a mess, but picking up the glass would create one. A true act of god.

CP | What dish from Leonards would you pair a Normie with?

A | Beer can chicken & gravy roll. Our chef Baden concocted this unholy sandwich for a Heaps Normal event. Can of Heaps Normal right up the chicken’s unmentionable while it roasts to create a perfectly succulent chook.

CP | Describe Leonards in three words

A | House of Love.

CP | What’s your favourite drinking song?

A | George Thoroughgood’s version of ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’

📍 Leonards House Of Love is located at 3 Wilson St, South Yarra/Naarm (VIC)

OPENING HOURS:
Mon to Thu 5pm–1am
Fri & Sat 12pm–3am
Sun 12pm-1am

@leonardshouseoflove
https://leonardshouseoflove.com.au/

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