Mel's Drive-In, American diner in San Francisco, United States.
Mel's Drive-In is an American diner in San Francisco featuring stainless steel walls, red vinyl booths, and chrome fixtures that define its retro look. A bold neon sign visible from several blocks away marks the building as a recognizable landmark in the neighborhood.
David Weiss and Harold Dobbs opened the first location in San Francisco in 1947, riding the wave of America's drive-in restaurant trend. The business grew to operate eleven restaurants across different locations before changes affected the chain.
The restaurant gained widespread attention after appearing in the 1973 film American Graffiti directed by George Lucas. Visitors come to experience the same spot featured in this iconic movie, making it a destination tied to film history.
The restaurant accepts major credit cards and serves breakfast throughout the day for those arriving at any hour. Extended opening hours until midnight on weekdays and 3 AM on weekends make it accessible for late-night meals and early-morning visits alike.
The kitchen still prepares meals using recipes from the original 1947 opening. Signature milkshakes are made with local dairy products and fresh ingredients, maintaining flavors that have remained unchanged through the decades.
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