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 2020, Helen has been recognized as one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America, featured in Garden & Gun, Southern Living, Food & Wine, and more — and most recently named a 2025 MICHELIN Recommended Restaurant.
Praised for pairing timeless elegance with genuine Southern warmth, Helen has become a beloved Birmingham destination for thoughtful food and gracious hospitality.Helen was inspired by a cherished memory — Rob’s grandmother cooking over the hardwood coals of her indoor grill, in a home where friends and family gathered to share meals, celebrate milestones, and create lasting memories.
Every dish at Helen begins with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, prepared with care and technique to let the flavors shine. The menu reflects Chef Rob’s Southern roots while offering a distinctive, elevated perspective, served in generous, family-style portions meant to be shared. Paired with a curated beverage program and hospitality that lingers long after the meal, Helen is a place to savor, connect, and celebrate together.
Reserve your table on Resy or give us a call — we look forward to welcoming you.
COME FOR THE FOOD,
STAY FOR THE SPIRIT
HOURS
LUNCH
TUESDAY - FRIDAY 11:00AM - 1:30PM
DINNER
MonDAY - SATURDAY 5:00PM - 9:00PM
THE BAR OPENS Monday - Saturday at 4:00 PM
BAR RESERVATIONS CAN BE MADE FROM 4:00-4:45 ; STARTING AT 5:00, BAR SEATS ARE AVAILABLE FOR WALK-INS
Complimentary valet service is available for dinner guests starting at 4:30 PM.
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR FARMERS AND PRODUCER PARTNERS
When possible, we partner with local and regional farmers and producers who share our commitment to thoughtful stewardship, seasonal growing, and quality ingredients — supporting our community while letting the best of the region shine.
Lovelight Farm — Birmingham, Alabama
A woman-owned, volunteer-powered farm cultivating fresh produce with care, intention, and respect for the land.
Eastaboga Bee Company — Eastgaboga, Alabama
Family-owned, fourth-generation beekeepers producing raw Alabama honey — proudly featured on the plate and behind the bar.
Belle Meadow Farm — Tuscaloosa, Alabama
A family-owned farm growing seasonal Alabama produce using sustainable practices.
Bear Creek Farm — Tennessee
A multi-generation, family-owned farm with decades of experience raising all-natural beef and heritage pork across Tennessee pastureland.
Larder Foods — Birmingham, Alabama
A specialty foods supplier bridging chefs and dedicated growers to source rare, seasonal, and thoughtfully produced ingredients.
Evans Meats — Birmingham, Alabama
A family-owned meat, seafood and cheese company we’ve partnered with for years, valued for their quality, care, and reliability.
