BREAKING: Leo's Barbecue is going back to Kelley

Last day of Homeland operations was Saturday

The owner of Leo’s Barbecue announced last week he was closing his business located inside the Homeland store at 625 NE 36^th St, but reopening down the street at the original location at 3621 NE Kelley Ave.

The last day for Leo’s in Homeland was Saturday. Renovations appear well under way at the old gas station where Leo Smith first opened his iconic smokehouse in 1974. Leo’s son Charles Smith has been running the business since his father passed away in 1994 at the age of 57.

Charles was 10 when his father opened the original and "didn't see how it could happen" as a child. Now nearly 60, Charles has carried the banner for his family’s brand almost a decade longer than his father did, which includes appearing the Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.

Besides first-rate ribs, pork and brisket, Leo’s is known for its fiery barbecue sauce, and delectable strawberry-banana cake. I do look forward to passing the relish and green onion tray around the dining room.

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