The Brass Lantern

The Brass Lantern in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, is where the story of Legends Restaurants truly begins. Purchased by Johnny Fleeman in 1988, The Brass Lantern was the first step in what would become a beloved collection of casual, family-friendly steakhouses across the region. With its warm atmosphere and menu of classic American steakhouse fare infused with Southern tradition, The Brass Lantern quickly became a local favorite—and a proving ground for a much larger vision.

At a time when more people were choosing to dine out rather than cook at home, Fleeman saw an opportunity to bring big-city quality and hospitality to his small-town community. His experience at The Brass Lantern laid the foundation for what would become Legends Steakhouse, which opened its first official location in Columbia, Tennessee, in 1993.

The name “Legends” was born from a quiet moment in The Brass Lantern’s office, where Fleeman noticed the name of a Packard Bell computer—Legend 386. That small spark inspired a larger idea: to build restaurants that honor the legendary people, stories, and spirit of the communities they serve.

Though the Legends name has expanded to multiple locations across Tennessee, The Brass Lantern remains a cornerstone of the brand’s identity. It embodies the same values that define every Legends restaurant today: unwavering commitment to quality, heartfelt hospitality, and a relentless focus on guest satisfaction. Every dish is made from scratch using the finest ingredients, with many recipes rooted in the heritage of Fleeman’s mother, Faye.
From its beginnings at The Brass Lantern, the Legends brand has grown by empowering team members to think like owners and lead with purpose. But no matter how far the brand reaches, its heart will always be in Lawrenceburg—where one restaurant lit the flame for a legendary journey.