Lively Portuguese spot in the West Village with standout seafood, friendly service, and a creative bent; prices are high with a 20% service charge, and richness/oiliness can be polarizing.
Leitao delivers solid neighborhood dining through excellent food quality anchored by standout octopus and clams, paired with genuinely warm, attentive service. However, inconsistent execution—occasional dryness and oiliness in mains—prevents grade A territory, while a tight compact space and automatic 20% service charge temper the overall value proposition. The West Village location and hospitable atmosphere make it worth visiting for Portuguese seafood and wine.
One caveat: Mandatory 20% service charge; some perceive as a junk fee