If you’re looking for a cozy place to study before finals, Cleo and Leo might be your new spot. The woman-owned bakery is located in North Lawrence and opened its doors this past November. The bakery is named after owner Gabriela Otero’s black cat named Leo, and her dog named Cleo.

Ashley Updike | @aupdike26@ku.edu

“We really dug into our Mexican heritage and roots and really wanted to bring that to Lawrence. Introducing the random, like, Mexican baked goods or drinks that we have, that’s really fun, Otero said. “Having new items for people that they probably wouldn’t come across on a regular basis.”

Otero shares her passion for her favorite Mexican bakery treats with the community, but she also enjoys exploring new recipes that she can add to her repertoire for Cleo and Leo customers.

“It gets really exciting to like learn a new product, and then get to learn where it came from, and then forward that message to the customers and the people that come by,” Otero said.

Otero met her right-hand business partner and coffee manager Madison Luchsinger while working together at local brunch spot, The Roost. The two clicked right away and began their project to bring Cleo and Leo to Lawrence. While Otero bakes the pastries and treats, Luchsinger crafts the coffee menu.

“As a barista, you dream about making your own menu and having your own drinks, and being able to connect with regulars. You meet so many different people,” Luchsinger said.

Cleo and Leo offers indoor and outdoor seating where guest can bring their pets, enjoy Mexican-inspired treats and soak in the Spring weather.

“Even with our limited seating, I think it’s a very comfortable space. I don’t know what students do besides study a lot, so they can like sit out there for hours and never feel like they’re like in the way or anything like that,” Otero said.

Cleo and Leo is located at 300 Elm Street, and is open Tuesday through Sunday.