A First-Timer's Guide to Visiting Herb Restaurant

New to Herb? Here's what to expect before you go, so your first visit feels familiar rather than like guesswork.

Before you go

• Booking – walk-ins are welcome at both branches, but booking ahead is worth doing for weekend evenings or if you're coming as a group.
• Where to park – if you're driving to Leicester, see our parking guide for the nearest car parks.
• Dietary needs – the whole menu is vegetarian, so there's no need to check in advance unless you have a specific allergy, in which case flag it when you order.

What to expect from the menu

Everything on the menu is vegetarian, with most dishes vegan or easily made vegan. The cooking style is Kerala specifically – coconut-based, rice and lentil led, generally mild to moderately spiced rather than fiery. If you've mostly had North Indian food before, expect something noticeably lighter.

What to order

A dosa or a Kerala thali are the two easiest ways in – see our guides to dosa varieties and what a Kerala thali actually is. If you want a wider shortlist, our 10 dishes you must try covers more ground.

Spice levels

The food is generally mild to moderately spiced, with flavour prioritised over heat. If you want something milder or spicier, just say so when you order – the kitchen can usually adjust.

Two locations

Herb has restaurants in Leicester (96 Granby Street) and Leamington Spa (5-6 York House, Clarendon Avenue), both serving the same core menu.