Leo’s Coney Island is a full-service, fast food dining experience with carry-out options, as well Leo’s Coney Island is a Detroit native restaurant, family owned and established in 1972. The restaurant required a complete repositioning in order to meet the needs of an airport venue. The location offers full service dining and a carry out service with a strong grab and go station.

The décor is a contemporary approach to a classic American diner with a variety of seating types, large screen TV’s and airline F.I.D (Flight Indicator Displays). The atmosphere is intentionally relaxed and suitable for both business travel and families on the go. The seating offers plenty of places for guests to charge their personal devices. In addition to TV’s, there is also an airline F.I.D. (Flight Indicator Display) to inform guests of flight status.

The design is unique since it combines a nationally recognized American diner with a contemporary aesthetic of a world class international airport that must serve a wide range of customers – from business travelers to families and everything in between. There were some challenges that came with tackling this project. First of all, we had to adapt and modernize the brand design palette for a traditional family owned Coney Island restaurant, which was established in 1972.

We also had to get the design up to design standards for a world class international airport. And last but not least, we had to accommodate customers that are traveling with a small amount of time and a large amount of luggage while making a unique look that feels friendly for business travelers and families alike.

We offered plenty of solutions. First of all, we incorporated an efficient TO GO area that delivers food in less than 10 minutes for travelers and allowed visibility into and through the restaurant to see the tarmac. Thinking practically, we were careful to select materials readily available in short delivery time that can respond to the abuse and traffic demands of airport guests and their luggage.

Designed by Studio|H2G
Photography by Don Kurek