Dining at Herby-K’s: A Culinary Journey Through Time in Shreveport
There’s a charming little spot in Shreveport that’s been delighting locals since 1936. Yes, you guessed it! It’s the legendary Herby-K’s, a restaurant that many claim is a living piece of history. With its fascinating past and an unwavering reputation, the question that lingers is: does this beloved establishment still deliver the delightful dining experience that has won so many hearts, or is it merely resting on its laurels?
A Warm Welcome and Nostalgic Atmosphere
Recently, on a sunny Monday, I decided to revisit Herby-K’s. I invited a friend along for some much-needed culinary exploration. We arrived just before 11:30 AM, knowing that Herby-K’s can get quite busy. The lovely weather tempted us to sit outside. Now, don’t get too excited — the patio is covered and air-conditioned, which gives it a cozy vibe without requiring sunblock!
As we stepped inside to get a glimpse of the dining area, I was immediately enveloped by a sense of nostalgia. It felt like stepping back in time. The walls were adorned with old photographs and quirky signs, and the classic bar still featured those delightful swivel stools without backs. Here was a place that seemed to have a harmony with history.
Meet Percy: The Friendly Server
No sooner had we sat down at our cute little table than Percy swooped in to take our drink orders. And let me tell you, folks, Percy is the kind of person who radiates positivity. He was warm, engaging, and treated us like guests in his home with polite “ma’am” and “sir” comments. You could tell Percy loves what he does, and that filled the atmosphere with an inviting aura.
The Menu: A Cornucopia of Choices
Herby-K’s menu is brimming with tempting options. From oysters and po’boys to burgers and salads, there’s something to satisfy every craving. However, if you know a thing or two about this eatery, you know that the Shrimp Buster is their claim to fame. My friend, surprisingly, had never tried one, so she decided to go for the Baby Shrimp Buster ($13.99), substituting fries for crispy onion rings for an extra $2. As for me? I couldn’t resist ordering the grilled catfish po’boy ($13.99).
The Big Reveal: What’s Cooking?
It didn’t take long before Percy brought our delicious dishes to the table. My friend was thrilled with her Baby Shrimp Buster, served on a bed of buttered garlic French bread, complimented by a small serving of coleslaw and a container of their special Shrimp Buster sauce. Her enjoyment was palpable as she exclaimed about the buttery flavor of the shrimp that had just the right thinness. Just the right size for a light lunch, she mused about the nostalgia of the coleslaw, comparing it to her mother’s recipe. And the onion rings? Perfectly crispy and not too thick—she was absolutely pleased.
As for my catfish po’boy, it was a sight to behold! The sandwich was robustly filled, so much so that I questioned whether I could finish it. But as I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The bread was merely the vessel, allowing the perfectly cooked fish to shine through, all dressed with cool mayo, fresh lettuce, and tomatoes. Delightfully, the experience exceeded my expectations, as Herby-K’s catfish po’boy has now joined the ranks of the best I’ve ever tasted!
Dessert Dreams: A Sweet Surprise
After we had indulged in our generous portions, Percy surprised us with a complimentary bowl of white chocolate bread pudding. Initially, we hesitated, feeling too full to indulge in dessert. But, oh boy, once we took a bite, there was no stopping us! This heavenly delight burst with sweetness, tinged with a hint of nostalgia. It claimed its rightful place as one of the best desserts I’ve had, and we enjoyed every last morsel!
The Final Tally
Our delightful lunch came to a total of $34.21 before taxes and tip. If you plan to pay with a credit card, be mindful of the 4% surcharge, which is clearly noted on the menu. After taking it all in, we were left marveling at how, after 87 years, Herby-K’s is still wowing diners with its rich history and fabulous flavors.
In conclusion, Herby-K’s remains more than worthy of its longstanding reputation. I will certainly return, and maybe even navigate my way back through the quaint neighborhood it resides in, as all good dining experiences are worth the detour!
