Most people in California have at least a passing knowledge of Mels Drive-In, from its beginnings on skate wheels to its star turn as a backdrop for the 1973 George Lucas film American Graffiti, where hotrod cars and teenage angst meet over french fries and milkshakes. The film, shot on location at a Mels Drive-In in the Bay Area, was already a nostalgia play when it was released, harkening back to the early 1960s and helped to solidify what the neon-riddled West Coast diner scene had really looked like

First Generation

In 1947, Mel Weiss and Harold Dobbs opened the first drive-in restaurant, Mel's, in San Francisco, pioneering the concept in America due to California's favorable weather for carhop service. The original location on 140 South Van Ness Avenue had space for 110 cars and was featured in the film "American Graffiti."

The restaurant quickly gained popularity, covering its startup costs in the first month. With a diner-style interior, it had booth seating, a dining counter, and a high-capacity cooker. They expanded with additional locations in San Francisco, and Weiss's son Steven later opened a Next Generation Mel's at the original site.

By the mid-1950s, Mel's had become a chain, generating about $4 million annually and serving a diverse menu. It thrived through the 1950s and 60s with multiple locations across Northern California.

However, competition from fast-food chains led to a decline, and in 1972, Weiss and Dobbs sold the franchise to Foster's. The location became famous as "Burger City" in "American Graffiti." After Foster's bankruptcy and subsequent ownership changes, Mel's closed and was demolished in 1976.

Second Generation

In 1985, Steven Weiss and Donald Wagstaff reopened Mel's Drive-In on Lombard Street in San Francisco, reaching out to columnist Herb Caen to generate excitement. On opening day, patrons flooded in, bringing generations to experience Mel's nostalgia.

After their San Francisco success, Weiss, Wagstaff, and Mendez expanded Mel's to Southern California in 1989, choosing a historic "Googie" style building on Ventura Blvd in Sherman Oaks. The neighborhood embraced it, becoming a beloved spot for families and late-night outings.

In 1997, the iconic Mel's Drive-In on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood was rescued from demolition, preserving its historic charm and legacy. Known for its 24/7 service, Mel's is a favorite spot for breakfast, brunch, and more, attracting a diverse range of patrons.

In 2001, the third Next Generation Mel’s drive-in opened in Hollywood’s Max Factor building. Featuring the Celebrity Bar, it’s a favorite for locals and tourists, offering a slice of Hollywood history with Mel’s burgers, shakes, and hospitality, open until 3 am on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends!

Ford Motor Company chose Mel’s Drive-In, located on the iconic Sunset Strip, as the venue to introduce its new line of Mustangs to the automotive press. Over several days, different groups of journalists were invited to test drive the new vehicles. Upon arrival, they were greeted with a presentation about the new Ford Mustang line, all while enjoying a delicious, classic American-style breakfast at Mel’s.

Mel’s Drive-In opened its Santa Monica location in the iconic Penguin building, constructed in 1959, situated at the end of the iconic Route 66.