Phil Rosenthal, the renowned television writer and food enthusiast, has recently opened a new diner named Max & Helen’s on Larchmont in Los Angeles. This diner is a passion project for Phil, who has been dreaming of this venture for over 22 years. Working alongside chef Nancy Silverton and his daughter Lily Rosenthal, Phil has poured his heart and soul into creating a warm and welcoming space for the community.
Named after his late parents, Max & Helen’s aims to provide a dining experience free from the pretentiousness often found in Los Angeles restaurants. Lily, who serves as the creative director, emphasizes the importance of hospitality and creating a sense of community within the diner. The staff at Max & Helen’s have been carefully selected to ensure that every guest feels valued and cared for.
Despite the upscale location on Larchmont, Phil and Lily are committed to offering affordable prices at Max & Helen’s. The menu features classic diner fare like grilled cheese, omelettes, and desserts, with special nods to Phil’s parents through dishes like Max’s fluffy eggs and Helen’s matzo ball soup. The collaboration with Courage Bagels for their sesame bagel highlights Phil’s attention to detail and dedication to quality.
One point of contention during the menu planning was the inclusion of a burger, which Nancy Silverton initially opposed. However, after tasting her patty melt, Phil insisted on adding a burger to the menu as well. The diverse menu also includes options like a hot dog and Max & Helen’s Not for Me Hot Sauce, catering to guests with varying tastes.
For Lily, working on Max & Helen’s has been a learning experience, as she delves into the restaurant world alongside her husband, Mason Royal. The family has big dreams for the future, hoping to eventually expand the Max & Helen’s concept to other locations, possibly even in New York. However, their primary focus now is on perfecting the original diner and maintaining its high standards.
While Max & Helen’s may not appear on “Somebody Feed Phil,” Phil is open to the idea of featuring the diner in a documentary series that explores the making of the diner and the concept of community in American diners. Max & Helen’s Diner is now open at 127 N. Larchmont Blvd, inviting guests to experience a taste of home and hospitality in the heart of Los Angeles.
