Welcome to Helen
Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Helen is a contemporary Southern grill led by 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 and most recently named a 2025 MICHELIN Recommended Restaurant. In 2026, Chef Rob McDaniel was recognized as a James Beard Foundation Outstanding Chef semifinalist.
Rooted in memory and fire, Helen was inspired by Rob’s grandmother, Helen, cooking over hardwood coals — a home where friends and family gathered to share meals and celebrate life’s moments.
Every dish 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 an elevated perspective, served in generous family-style portions meant to be shared.
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
11:00 AM–1:30 PM
DINNER
Monday–Saturday
5:00 PM–9:00 PM
The Bar Opens at 4:00 PM
Bar reservations are available from 4:00–4:45 PM. Beginning at 5:00 PM, bar seating is available for walk-ins.
Complimentary valet service is available for dinner guests starting at 4:30 PM.
We Are Proud to Support Our Farmers & Producer Partners
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 allowing the best of the region to 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.
