Max & Helen's Diner Draws Crowds, Celebrities, and Mixed Reviews

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Max & Helen's, a new diner opened in November 2025 by renowned chef Nancy Silverton and TV personality Phil Rosenthal, has quickly become a hot spot in Los Angeles, drawing long lines, celebrity sightings, and a secret phone number to get a table. While the menu pays tribute to classic diner fare, the execution and pricing have received mixed reviews, with some standout dishes like the waffle and fries but other items like the matzo ball soup falling flat. The vibe aims to be a warm, neighborhood fixture, but the hype and crowds may deter regular return visits for all but the most dedicated fans.

Why it matters

The opening of Max & Helen's highlights the continued popularity of diner-style restaurants, even when operated by high-profile culinary figures. It raises questions about whether a diner needs to be more than just a diner to justify long waits and premium pricing in a competitive Los Angeles dining landscape.

The details

Max & Helen's menu features Silverton's takes on diner classics, including a tuna melt sandwich, a "Larchmont Slam" breakfast plate, and a lemon-zest pancake. While some dishes like the waffle and fries have impressed, others like the underseasoned scrambled eggs and sweet matzo ball soup have fallen short. The restaurant aims for a vintage diner aesthetic with warm wood tones and a curved counter, and the service is described as warm and familiar.

• Max & Helen's opened in November 2025.
• The restaurant quickly developed long waits, with reports of eight-hour waits and a secret phone number to get a table.