Food has always been a love of Lily Rosenthal’s, even before she married chef Mason Royal. Food is what brings people together, across cultures and generations, breaking down barriers with one bite. The joy of eating food, of sharing food, is what drew Lily to become Creative Director of LA’s new Max and Helen’s restaurant, owned by her father Phil Rosenthal. A true family affair, Mason Royal is Director of Operations, and is in charge of the more behind-the-scenes aspects of this popular restaurant, whereas Lily steers the ship with more broad visions.This powerhouse couple works together to create an atmosphere and space for people to come together, eat good food, and enjoy themselves.

The enjoyment of food and the art of eating, is the foundation of Max and Helen's, and is something that Lily wants to share with even the youngest of ages. A love of food starts young, and it starts with fun, and with adventure. Most recently, Lily has teamed up with her father to write a sequel to their children’s book “Just Try It”, titled “Just Try It! Someplace New?”. Advocating for the same welcoming energy that Max and Helen’s represents, this book is a reminder that no matter your age, you really never know if you don’t like something if you never give it a chance, especially when it comes to food. So, be adventurous, seek out that new restaurant, discover a new dish, and as Lily says; “Just Try It!”. Read all about Lily's newest book, her love of food, and the importance of sharing food, below.

What inspired you to create a sequel to your first book, "Just Try It," with "Just Try It! Someplace New!"? In what ways does this new book expand on the themes introduced in the original?‍

At its core, Just Try It is about broadening horizons, so we’re following that path. Hesitation to try something new, the fear of the unknown, it’s all anxiety. But once you try it, you know it, and then maybe everything becomes a little less scary. ‍

Given the close bond you share with your father, Phil Rosenthal, how did that relationship influence the storytelling and creative process for creating your new book?

It just doesn’t feel like work and I think that’s why we keep writing together. I got to learn everything about writing from my dad and now get to work alongside him. A dream come true.  ‍

Your concept of food as a “bridge” between cultures and communities is powerful. Can you share a memorable moment from your life that perfectly illustrates this idea?

I see it every single day in our restaurant. Strangers to friends when one guest orders something the other didn't, they share, they start talking, suddenly they’re friends. Magic.  One time a guest brought us a gift and when we asked why he said “you sat me at the counter alone a few weeks ago, then you sat a lady next to me who was also alone. Now we're dating, so thank you” I mean… If that’s not reason enough to open more restaurants…‍

As a creative director at one of LA’s most sought-after restaurants, MAX & HELEN’S, what personal experiences have shaped your approach to both the diner and storytelling?

Every decision for the diner comes through a filter of “would my grandparents get this? Would they like it? Would it make them say "oy”?” So is it “chic” to put up the crayon covered coloring sheets we give to the kids that come in? No, but we put them up because that’s what my grandparents would do if I gave them a drawing.‍

What are your plans for advancing your mission to build community through food? Alongside your work in restaurants and literature, are there additional platforms you intend to explore to foster this sense of community?

My dream is to do a Max & Helen’s pop up in other parts of the world, like Tokyo and Copenhagen and present an Americana experience through our diner. Maybe we’ll film that experience if it happens.  

How do you start and end your day? What helps you unwind and ready yourself to begin again?  

Starts and ends the same way, real housewives of New Jersey and rhode skincare