Welcome to Helen

Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Helen is a contemporary Southern grill led by six‑time James Beard Award semifinalist Chef Rob McDaniel and his wife, Emily. Since opening in the summer of 2020, Helen has been honored as one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America, featured in Southern Living’s “12 Tomato Dishes Our Editors Wait For All Year Long” for our beloved Tomato Pie, and highlighted by Alabama NewsCenter as one of Birmingham’s top restaurants to watch with the debut of the MICHELIN Guide American South. Praised for balancing timeless elegance with Southern warmth, Helen continues to be a Birmingham favorite.

Helen brings to life a cherished food memory—Rob’s grandmother cooking over the hardwood coals of her indoor grill, in a home where friends and family gathered to share, celebrate, and create lasting moments together.

Every dish at Helen begins with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, prepared with care and technique that lets the flavors shine. The menu reflects Chef Rob’s Southern roots while offering a distinctive voice that is both familiar and elevated. With generous, family‑style portions and a commitment to hospitality that lingers long after the meal, Helen is a place to savor, share, and celebrate together.

Call us or visit Resy today to reserve your table.