Most of us with roots in, or connections to, Alexandria, remember Herbie K's.

An Alexandria institution for decades, it was perhaps "THE" place for fine dining and entertainment.

Its tongue-in-cheek byline was well known in Alexandria and throughout Louisiana:

"The World's Worst Service, with the World's Finest Food"

Owned by Herbie K. Smith, its last location was on 3515 Lee Street.

The ad shown to the right, from the early 1960s, lists some of the amenities of Herbie K's:

• Oysters on the Half Shell
• Seafoods
• Choice Steaks
• Maine Lobsters
• Facilities for Parties and Banquets
• Hammond Organ for Your Amusement
• Air Conditioned for Your Comfort
• Member of Diner's Club & American Express

Here's a quick history of Herbie K's, as documented in the image to the right that appeared in the Town Talk's Sesquicentennial edition in 1957...

Herbie-K's Has Been Practically a Legend to Alexandria!

Since the meager beginning of Herbie-K’s back in September, 1941, this establishment has been know as a headquarters for better foods. From the Oyster Bar, that was the beginning, down through the years, Herbie-K’s has kept abreast of the times.

When the business increased so that space was inadequate, a location was secured on Lee Street Extension (the present location) and there a building was erected. Since that date May 9, 1942, three changes have been made to provide additional space that was required.

Today’s modern edifice is proof of the popularity and efficiency of the “world’s worst” service that been given by this well-known Restaurateur, who is an Alexandria boy, born, reared here, and destined to serve Alexandrians for the years to come!

Exterior View of Herbie K's Restaurant, 1957