Mel's Drive In

Classic American diner with a modern twist, serving everything from breakfast to burgers to late night fare, vegetarian dishes, milkshakes, and more! Mels has been in operation since 1947. You've seen us featured in countless movies and TV Shows, most notably 1973's street rod classic film, "American Graffiti." Our present day inception includes updates such as craft draft beers, grass fed beed, fresh juices and smoothies, but we still serve our tried and true American favorites. Established in 1947. In 1947, Mel Weiss and Harold Dobbs opened the first drive-in restaurant in San Francisco, Mels drive-in. At the time, the drive-in restaurant concept was just beginning in America, and the agreeable weather of California was ideal for year round carhop service. The original location of Mels drive-in was 140 South Van Ness Avenue. It consisted of ample grounds, attractively landscaped with the capacity for 110 cars, and a two-story rectangular building. Anyone who has seen the 1973 film "A