New Restaurant & Event Space Opens in Braintree
Leo's Events and Restaurant has officially opened its doors in Braintree, Massachusetts. The new establishment aims to function as both a dining venue and an event space, adding another option to the region's growing culinary scene.
The new Leo's Events and Restaurant is the latest venture from seasoned restaurateur Leo Keka, who also owns Alba in Quincy and Hanover, as well as Zef Cicchetti & Raw Bar in Quincy. Keka has a history of creating high-end dining experiences on the South Shore, with his Quincy steakhouse, Alba, being noted for one of the most extensive wine lists in the state. For his new Braintree establishment, Keka's company purchased the 16,000-square-foot property at 589 Granite Street for $4.2 million. The property, formerly a Dunkin' Donuts training facility known as Dunkin' University, has been transformed into a dual-concept venue. The initial plan for the location was a Northern Italian restaurant called Scutari, a concept Keka has already opened in Hanover. However, the vision for the Braintree space evolved into the current restaurant and elegant event space model. The function hall is already open and accepting bookings for private events, corporate gatherings, and other celebrations. The opening of Leo's Events and Restaurant contributes to the economic activity along the Granite Street commercial corridor. It joins other recent additions to the area's dining scene, such as the New England restaurant chain Tavern in the Square, which opened in a former TGI Fridays location. The new establishment is creating service and hospitality jobs, with positions for servers advertised at a pay rate of $24.55 - $29.56 per hour and back-of-house staff at $21.00 - $30.00 per hour. This development aligns with Braintree's broader economic landscape, which is characterized by a mix of retail, healthcare, and professional services. The restaurant industry is a significant driver of local economies, providing employment opportunities, supporting local suppliers, and generating tax revenue that contributes to community services and infrastructure. The addition of a new, upscale dining and event option can also enhance the desirability of an area for both residents and other businesses.
