It was a big day on Catoctin Circle last Thursday as neighbors, town officials, and Mayor Kelly Burk gathered to cut the ribbon at Johanna’s Bakery and Restaurant, a new family-run spot just a short walk from downtown Leesburg.
Owner Johanna Deodanes stood beside a display of handmade cakes and pastries, proudly showing off her creations to guests—many of whom had followed her journey from baking at home to opening a full restaurant.
“I’ve always loved cooking, and so has my husband,” Deodanes said. “Opening this restaurant is something we dreamed about together, and Leesburg has been so welcoming.”
Located at 7 Catoctin Circle SE, Johanna’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day, with a focus on Hispanic and Central American flavors—think pupusas, tamales, and sweet breads fresh from the oven.
But it’s the dessert case that catches your eye when you walk in. Personalized cakes, pastries, and breads are made in-house, many of them the same recipes Johanna built her home-based business on before taking the leap to open a storefront.
For those who’ve seen Leesburg change over the years, the arrival of family-owned businesses like this one feels like a breath of fresh air. In a town where chain restaurants often crowd out local flavor, Johanna’s Bakery and Restaurant is rooted in something real: homegrown passion and community spirit.
To see more about Johanna’s story, check out her interview on Locally Leesburg, or visit johannasbakeryandrestaurant.com to browse the menu.