How often do you hear of a southerner moving to the north? It’s rare, but Mt Airy native Leon Newman moved to New Jersey and started his family there. Though his primary job was being an electrician, he really loved cooking! With a busy life and the added stress of being in a big city, Leon and his wife Eileen decided to move to Mt Airy in the mid 1980’s and open their first Leon’s Burger Express off US Highway 601. After working very long hours and building up their restaurant, Leon convinced their daughter and son-in-law, Vicky and Paul Riekehof to leave their home in New Jersey, and partner with them. Soon after the restaurant was built up very well, they moved to our current location in downtown Mt Airy, where we have been since the late 80’s. Though the California Cheeseburger is the hot item, it hasn’t been the only contributor to our success. Being family owned and operated along with a superior and hardworking staff, our restaurant has been recognized by thousands as one of the best in Mayberry.

In 2025, Paul and Vicky decided to retire after spending many years building Leon’s up to where it is today. David and Tonya Wall, Yadkin Valley locals, decided to embark on a new journey, and carry on the 2-generation legacy that started with Leon and Eileen!

David spent his life carrying a very solid legacy working for RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company and retired in 2025. The Wall family has experience in the food industry, being part of running a successful seafood restaurant in their hometown decades ago. Tonya spent her life focusing on education and helping kids in need, working an outstanding 30 year career in Yadkin County Schools. Ironically, her family has extensive restaurant ownership experience as well in their hometown as well. You will see the Wall family in there now, but they live by the quote “don’t fix what isn’t broken”, so no ingredients have changed on their items, they have just added more delicious options to their menu. Under their leadership, Leon’s has rapidly grown even further, while keeping to their core values.

Stop by and pay us a visit! We are located at 407 N Main St, Mt Airy, NC. Come pay us a visit and we promise you will not regret it!