Donald Link is a highly acclaimed, James Beard Award-winning chef and co-founder of the Link Restaurant Group. He is known for his innovative approach to Southern and New American cuisine, deeply rooted in the...
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FrenchLocal ModernVegetarian Vegan FocusAmericanSeafoodUpscaleLunchDinnerFine DiningCocktail Bar
Last updated: 7/7/2026, 4:58:43 AM
Key Information
Herbsaint, established in 2000 by Chef Donald Link, is the flagship restaurant of the acclaimed Link Restaurant Group. Located on historic St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, it's known for its sophisticated take on Southern and French-inspired cuisine, emphasizing local ingredients and a vibrant bar scene.
Customers generally praise Herbsaint for its high-quality food, elegant yet comfortable ambiance, and attentive service. It is considered a staple for fine dining in New Orleans, offering a memorable culinary experience.
Additional Details
The restaurant's name, Herbsaint, is also the name of a New Orleans-born anise-flavored liqueur, often used as an absinthe substitute, reflecting a nod to local culinary history.
The restaurant does not explicitly highlight extensive vegetarian or vegan options, and Google Maps hints suggest it does not serve vegetarian food as a focus. Guests with specific dietary needs should inquire directly with the restaurant.
Best Times to Visit
Herbsaint serves lunch and dinner Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and dinner on Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays. Weekday lunch and early dinner might be less crowded, while evenings, especially Friday and Saturday, are likely peak times.
5
Herbsaint – A Fantastic Lunch Experience
We had a wonderful time dining at Herbsaint. Our group of five stopped in for lunch and cocktails, and from the moment we arrived, the experience was smooth, welcoming, and delicious.
The food was the undeniable star of the meal. The gumbo was easily the best we’ve ever had—deep, rich, and perfectly seasoned. The fried oysters were another standout, crisp on the outside and tender inside. Every dish at the table was enjoyed, and not a single complaint was heard from anyone in our group.
The cocktails were good, though they didn’t quite reach the same heights as the food. The Ginger’s Last Word leaned a bit plain, and the Banana Bird was sweeter than expected. The Venetian Spritz was flavorful but not particularly memorable. Still, all were solid drinks; the food simply outshined them.
Service was truly exceptional. Our server was kind, attentive, and incredibly helpful in guiding me through the gluten‑free options. I was grateful to have several safe and delicious choices, and it made the meal even more enjoyable.
One tip: consider making reservations. The restaurant filled up quickly right after opening, and it’s clear why—it’s absolutely worth a visit.
Overall, Herbsaint delivered a fantastic lunch with outstanding food, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere. We’ll happily return.
The food and service were absolutely amazing. Highly recommend. Server was kind and helpful. He did not rush me, even though I was dining alone.
The atmosphere while very nice and beautifully decorated it is a bit loud. As long as you're not looking for a quiet dinner, I would absolutely go.
I got 2 small plates the spaghetti and the fried green tomatoes. Both were amazing.
My G-d this place was good. Every. Single. Bite. We just kept going OMG THIS IS SO GOOD.
I kept forgetting to take pictures of the food before starting. I had the pasta with fried egg and bacon. My husband had the tuna sandwich. All phenomenal.
An absolute must-visit in New Orleans. Everyone we met told us we had to eat at Herbsaint, and it did not disappoint! We shared four small plates and a few glasses of wine, and every single dish was a masterpiece of flavor and beautiful presentation. Beyond the spectacular food, the service was flawless, and the ambiance was incredibly romantic. It was a highlight of our trip, and we’ll definitely be back. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an exceptional meal in The Big Easy.
Came here for dinner on a Saturday night and it was absolutely incredible. We definitely recommend the cornmeal fried oysters, the crudo, the fried green tomatoes(!!!), the Wagyu croquettes, and DEFINITELY the duck confit. The soup of the day was also great, and the gumbo and fried flounder were okay.
The servers were very kind and professional. The noise level was very manageable so we could actually have a conversation.