Mel&#x27;s Drive-In

Where To Eat With Kids In The Bay Area, According To Caroline Chambers

"My friend always says Mel's is the place you go to every Saturday morning and see a bunch of dads there with the kids giving mom a break. It's a classic diner and there's always families around, so it feels very comfortable to be there with kids—even if they're being a little loud. We typically do a burger and shake. My kids like their burgers plain with no cheese. We're working on it." - patrick wong

11 SF Restaurants With Easy Parking

"True to its name, Mel’s Drive-In has a dedicated parking lot with diagonal spots that even a Hummer could slide into with ease. The Geary location of the diner mini-chain always has room, so you’ll only have to take a maximum of 15 steps from car to booth. You’re not at Mel’s for a gastronomic revelation, but their massive plates of burgers, onion rings, turkey clubs, and brain freeze-inducing milkshakes do hit you with a healthy dose of ‘50s nostalgia. " - julia chen 1

12 San Francisco Diners That Stand the Test of Time

"Before you balk at the inclusion of a diner chain on this list, recall that before it ballooned to dozens of locations, Mel’s got its start right here in San Francisco way back in 1947. The Lombard location was the first of a second generation of Mel’s restaurants, founded by Steven Weiss, the son of original founder Mel Weiss, along with partner Donald Wagstaff. It’s a chrome-accented homage to all things Americana with a menu of breakfast, burgers, salads, and milkshakes designed to satisfy anyone and everyone." - Lauren Saria

12 San Francisco Diners That Stand the Test of Time

Mel’s Drive-In on Van Ness Reopens as Mel’s Kitchen with a Full Bar - Eater SF

"Mel’s Drive-In is available in a more traditional diner style reminiscent of the 1950s at several locations in San Francisco including the one on Lombard Street. It maintains the nostalgic charm that many diners seek." - Janelle Bitker

Christina Albert

Google

My experience at Mel's Diner was fantastic from start to finish. The location is convenient, with plenty of parking, and the customer service was exceptional. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for my family and me. We highly recommend it, especially if you're visiting from out of town. It's close to local attractions, and the food was absolutely delicious. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or brunch, or if you're craving a traditional diner meal, Mel's is a must-visit when in San Francisco. Don't leave the city without stopping by!

Kit O

Google

It far exceeded my expectations! It’s a definite 10/10. The food was amazing, fresh, quick, and honestly the best breakfast I’ve had in a really long time. 🙏 I got the Yuppie Joe scrambled with grilled potatoes. They were cooked perfectly and again all really fresh. I just added some more veggies to it and my husband got the biscuits and gravy with a separate order of the ham and cheese omelette. 🤤 The Popeyes power is the green juice I practically drank part of already… if you aren’t used to taking ginger lemon shots then maybe it might not be for you 😅 The biscuits and gravy was a light gravy and not too heavy but still really delicious. The menu is pretty extensive but I definitely believe everything here is really good and delicious. I love the music and parking is pretty spacious and easy to get to. Carlos our server is really sweet and really helpful with ordering and even places to see around the area too! They really take pride in this place, they take care of everything and keep a good flow of customers taking care of them.

Audrey P

Google

25 minutes to get food!!! Gum on Both shoes . No service after got plate. The food actually tasted pretty good it’s just that it did not come in the right sequence and then when it did come hot, I still didn’t come. I asked for fried before the food came as an appetizer and I got the fries. To take home with me in a bag they gave me hot french fries in the bag to take home with me to get cold since I could not eat the one with the thing I’ve already eaten the cookies on my plate and send a message food what happened to none he didn’t come my french fries on the ticket but I surely couldn’t eat anymore. So the manager took the french fries off my ticket but the situation is I got gum on the bottom of both of my shoes and they had nothing to say about that. French fries are not both of my shoes. Can I come on the bottom of them and I had to get this gum off the bottom of my shoe. Then I realize both of my shoes had come home number, and their bus boy was too busy flirting with some lady that was coming to work or whatever they were doing. I don’t know they were just gabbing and gabbing and then took drinks to people out in the car and then I know he was not fussing tampons because it was food left on the table from a long time and he surely didn’t look under the table when he did bus to Tampa and he could push the table.

David Nagel-Nunez

Google

We enjoyed this diner! Very good food, great mimosas and for a good deal ($6), and good atmosphere and service. They actually had a good amount of unique food options available as well. My husband loved the spare ribs grilled cheese. The only complaint was that it's really expensive, even for being in San Francisco. Meals are about $20 each, and appetizers are expensive. The only reasonable price was the $6 mimosas!! But, despite the price, the food was great and we had a good experience!

Viktoriia Siedikova

Google

The atmosphere there is amazing, but prices are crazy :) you can order a song from selection they provide, 0,25 cents per song. But it doesn’t work well sometimes. I ordered “time of my life” song and almost couldn’t hear it and then “summertime sadness” and they turned on completely different song. We went there late evening and were ordering only drinks so I can’t judge the food, but prices are wow! Appetisers are approximately $16. And a dish is $20+. I feel like it’s too much, I guess you pay for the atmosphere. Overall, we had cool experience, interesting place to visit when you’re a tourist. I think I’d come back😊 you can make there stylish photos. My vanilla thick milkshake was cool! Super sweet and thick. Mimosa is fine, has good amount of alcohol.

Kory Haas

Google

After researching the best places to eat in this area, we came across Mel’s and it DID NOT disappoint. The food and service was excellent.

Megan Hall

Google

Cute place, but food was not worth it price or the hype. Service was really slow. We came in at about 2pm so there weren't many others as main lunch time had passed. Took 10 minutes for anyone to come by to even take our drink order. We both kept it simple with cheeseburgers, and server was knowledgeable and asked us about toppings, type of cheese, etc. However, when our food came out it came out without any cheese on it. Our original server was no where to be found and had to get up to go look for someone else to tell, who look irritated we were asking. We never got a refill on soda because there was just no one around. Luckily the original server brought four glasses of water despite there only being two of us (crowded the table since there were also four place settings, but at least we had stuff to drink). The actual food was just... Fine. Nothing particularly great, especially at about $25/person. The fries had no real seasoning, barely any salt even. Burger was just plain. Toppings were fresh and good quality, but on a boring burger that doesn't mean much.

M J

Google

Fast service. A bit pricey but I think that's consistent with San Francisco generally. Food is good with big portions

Em K.

Yelp

Came for a late night bite and was not disappointed. Ordered the Mel's burger with fries (6.5/10), short-stack combo with scrambled eggs and cheese and bacon (8.5/10); the eggs were cooked perfectly and blew me away so had to give an extra point, and an Oreo Shake (they split it for us which was a nice touch). Ambiance is any typical diner, the decorations are pretty cool and fun. Service is friendly, at times we struggled to get their attention but what can you expect at 2:30 AM on a Saturday night.

Harlee S.

Yelp

It was such a pleasure having breakfast at Mel's Drive-In. The old diner and jukebox vibe was just what I needed. And just like the good all days (if I was alive), you can put a quarter in and pick a song to play. Of course, we had to choose Benny and the Jets by Elton John. Such a classic! The food was fantastic and they had $6 mimosas, which you could choose either cranberry, orange or pineapple. All three were delicious! I had the huevos rancheros and it was the perfect meal to start the day. I ordered fruit, as well, and got all the good stuff, not just melon and cantaloupe! The service was great and friendly!

Monica M.

Yelp

Apparently you need proof of purchase to exit? I came in by myself and had a lovely meal. My server came to check me out when I was finished and I paid my bill + tip via the mobile POS device. I got up to walk out and another server stops me and asks somewhat interrogatively, "You already paid?". I was confused and asked, "Excuse me?" and he says again interrogatively, "Did you already pay?". On one hand, I get it that you want to make sure no one stiffs the table. On the other hand, there's a much better way to handle the situation. It felt very accusatory and insulting to assume that I didn't pay. If you're going to use the mobile POS payment method so that diners can pay at their seats , staff should be adequately informed of completed transactions to avoid these confrontations. While the food and initial service was fine, this part of my visit left a sour taste. Please consider improving communication among your staff to ensure guests feel respected and not overly questioned as they leave.

Claudine R.

Yelp

This is such a cute spot. I love the vibe and the service. I came in during the day time on a Tuesday and I was helped by Carlos. He was so kind and helpful with the menu. My food came out very quickly and I really enjoyed my sandwich. My only reason for giving 4 stars is because I think the menu is overpriced for basic diner food. I would still come back tho, they are open late and it's a great spot for a small group. They also have parking.

Eric B.

Yelp

I'm born and raised in the city and this is my first time at Mel's. My first impression is that it gives me a cool and old school vibe. The restaurant was not very busy at all and the server sat as very quickly. She took our order and the food came out quick as well. The burger and sweet potatoes fries were decent but not amazing. It was kind of pricey for what you get but I think it would be a nice experience if you've never been to Mel's.

Randy S.

Yelp

This was at the Lombard Street location. Thr food was good, but our waiter, an older man, was hurried throughout our meal. He didn't check if we needed drink refills, and when my friend asked for water he only brought one glass without checkikg if I also wanted some. I had esten about half my meal and was going to ask for a to go box, but he came by and grabbed outlr plates. He barely stopped to see if we needed anything, so I was unable to save my meal, short of yelling oit or chasing him down.

EM H.

Yelp

Of the eight locations in Northern and Southern California, the Mel's Drive-In on Lombard Street in San Francisco has been the locale of the restaurant chain that we have recently been visiting. This location of the old-fashioned eatery follows the retro diner design that all Mel's Diner regulars have come to know. Brightly lit, cheerful and with jukeboxes throughout the dining room, nostalgic of the 1950's is the environment. The staff keeps the place clean and well kept. The venue also has a private parking lot for customers which is a major plus for a San Francisco establishment. The menu serves BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER and FOUNTAIN & DESSERTS, offering American classics like burgers, sandwiches, meatloaf, shakes, and pies. Below are a few items that we have recently ordered: THE IMPOSSIBLE BURGER - A vegan, Wendell savored every bite of this plant-based meal. The french fries were golden fresh with a perfect crisp. THICK OLD-FASHIONED CHOCOLATE SHAKE - Topped with whipped cream and a couple of cherries, V enjoyed his tall glass of this fountain drink. As usual, a little extra was served in the blender can. LANA DEL REY SHAKE - Good, according to Z. VEGAN THICK OLD-FASHIONED CHOCOLATE MALT MILKSHAKE - Kudos to Mel's for offering vegan shakes! Wendell and I split this. We were inadvertently served vanilla versions at first, though. The second serving was with no malt and too sweet in taste. Fail. BANANA SPLIT - Our waiter told us that the Banana Split comes with a scoop each of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, but they served one with three scoops of vanilla. Another fail. Kitchen mistakes aside, service has been nice and friendly.

Varun V.

Yelp

Daniel took great care of us, dinner was decorated with Halloween theme that the kiddo enjoyed!

amy T.

Yelp

So many dining options to choose from. Breakfast for dinner? Check! Avocado toast? Check! Tuna melt? Yes! Crispy fries. Yum. The service is fast and efficient. Go on a Groupon and get the deal. It's been a San Francisco institution that is still delicious and up to standards that make it a great Monday night spot.

Ash K.

Yelp

Mel's isn't anything like it used to be. Food wasn't good at all, is overpriced for what you get, and service is terrible. Our unfriendly server took our orders, never returned to check on us, and didn't even bring enough straws (or the extras we requested). We weren't able to flag anyone down, so I had to share a straw with my companion. We had the pesto melt sandwich, short rib nachos and the famous melburger. We didn't enjoy any our meal; nothing tasted fresh, the cheese on the nachos was gross, the meat was hard, and the fries were hard and dry. The diner itself was very dirty. The table and seats were sticky, I had to wipe things down before we were seated. We sat near a window and you could see dust caked all around, it was disgusting. Even the glasses seemed dingy. From the food to the service, to the condition of the diner, all of it left a bad taste in my mouth. Would not return!

Audrey P.

Yelp

25 min for dinner to be cooked Rude and dirty as much as they try to be nice having two pieces of gum on your bottom of your shoes really does make it a rude situation.

Chris G.

Yelp

I come from New England where old fashioned diners abound. I was wanting that experience today. I have passed by Mel's and one other a few times. The parking lot had a security guard which was nice! And, I was greeted at the front door with a wonderful smile. One of the waiters passing by made a point to compliment my sneakers and make some quick convo! appreciated! This diner sported green upholstery rather than the classic red. This was a nice change. They worked hard to put up the Christmas decorations which made me feel relaxed and at home. On a Sunday at 11:30, it was quiet with small parties trickling in I was also hankering for chicken and waffles ($18.70) so that's what I dialed in on. I've tried two other spots and this is my third. I got a grapefruit mamosa ($5) as well; the menu image made it seem bigger, but still tasty and plenty of champagne. The food came with crisp presentation and the waitress wished me a lovely meal . Interesting it was to see the bacon, cheddar, and green onions cooked into the waffle! That was new. The chicken was crisp and hot, and when paired with the buttermilk syrup... man it was satisfying. The waitress came over a few times to check in as well! For a total of $27.05, I was pretty damn satisfied! 5/5

Karlee J.

Yelp

If your in a pinch or it's late when there aren't many places open in SF, I would go here, especially for their malted shakes. Otherwise it's nothing spectacular. The service has always been good but the food is just ordinary, not bad but not overwhelming good! The diner 50's vibe is fun but feels like this is the Denny's of the bay!

Holly H.

Yelp

I came here mainly for the old fashioned diner vibes. Super cute inside and the jukebox was cool. Bonus points for having Lana Del Rey songs. Service was a little spotty, seems like they need more waitstaff. The food was okay, it was just your standard diner food. Nothing special, but the portions were large. Prices were about average for the area as well. I got an iced coffee and breakfast plate for around $30. They do have a decent size parking lot for the San Francisco area.

MaryAnn A.

Yelp

I'm a little sad to give this review because this Mel's is part of my childhood. I remember it being such a good time, I remember the food being really good. But this time, the food wasn't great. My daughter ordered the chicken nuggets and she said "Dino nuggets are better than this". I tried one and she's right. I ordered the fried chicken and I was excited to try it! But these pieces were so incredibly small. For $26-$27 it was such a disappointment. My brothers ordered the braised beef sandwich and dinner and THAT was good. Not sure if it was worth the cost but it was better than my daughters and I's good for sure. Service was great, he was attentive and funny. I know this location is old but I wish the chairs/booths didn't feel sticky and feel like old plastic. This visit made me a little sad but I'm glad my daughter got to experience the car-plate. ‍‍ waaaay too overpriced for the lack of quality food.

Taylor M.

Yelp

5 stars for Mel's Drive-In at the Lombard location. Its iconic and delicious food is a must do when in town. We happened to go on a vintage car night and my boyfriend was blown away. The super hot, delicious sandwich & milkshake was A+. Friendly staff and unforgettable atmosphere. A staple for the Bay, yum!

blaine s.

Yelp

I had my heart set on chicken pot pie but it was not on menu. I wanted to try it despite mixed reviews. I opted for huevos rancheros with extra side of avocado. While the over easy eggs were undercooked everything else was delicious. The black beans were too salty. Very small serving of rice. My friends raved about hot Turkey meal and veggie omelette with hash browns, very generous a serving. Waiters were attentive

Barry B.

Yelp

Hadn't been here in years, and thought it would be a good place for a school trip. It did not disappoint. Large menu, super fast service and excellent, attentive waiters. Great for brunch.

Trini M.

Yelp

Super cute interior. Service was great. Stopped by for breakfast before heading to the airport to fly back home. I ordered a mocha, which was delicious. Unfortunately, the food was terrible all across the board. I ordered chilaquiles, which weren't terrible, but I asked for chorizo, and I am convinced it was ground beef. That tasted absolutely nothing like chorizo and everything like turkey chili or chili beans( without the beans), so it completely changed the flavor of the chilaquiles. My mom ordered an omelet with chorizo and said the same thing. My step dad's club sandwich was made with super dry bread and burnt bacon, which ruined his sandwich, and the bite he gave me tasted smoked like the over cooked bacon. What was actually really good (everyone dug in) were my son's fries. To each their own. I always say, don't let a certain review deter you from experience it yourself.

Cris M.

Yelp

This review is for Julio and team. My wife and I love and frequent this specific location weekly. Not only is the food always delicious, Julio and his team always go above and beyond to make the meal a great experience. We love this place, thanks for always taking care of us!!!! Keep up the great work fellas!

John I.

Yelp

I'm a sucker for a classic diner, and nothing fits that bill like Mel's. We came the week before Christmas at an awkward hour between lunch and dinner, and found we were one of only a couple groups there. There was a cute display of holiday decorations adorning the interior, and we enjoyed the warm, familial feel of the diner as we took a break from the cold, windy weather. Though the service was a bit slow, they were very friendly and welcoming once they did get to us. We ordered the four sliders combo, the grilled cheese and tomato basil soup, and the tuna melt. The tuna melt and grilled cheese were good and completely hit the spot; however, the sliders were a little underwhelming. The meat was a bit dry, and there wasn't much flavor to them (though the standard beef one was my favorite and had the most flavor to it). The twisty fries we ordered with them were very tasty, though, and made me wonder why more restaurants don't offer curly fries! With Mel's, you know exactly what you're going to get - a variety of decent comfort food served within the quintessential diner experience. It's familiar, it's consistent, and if it's what you're in the mood for, you can't go wrong!

Cindy C.

Yelp

Yum!! Old school deliciousness. We came here for their 75 anniversary, the prices were 75% off ..

Gene D.

Yelp

Good food but the service is lacking a bit. And, they were not crowded since it was in between lunch and dinner. We hardly saw our server after he dropped off our food. Speaking of food... Chicken & Waffles! And the bacon and green onions were incorporated into the waffle batter. Genius! My order came with 2 pieces of chicken, a rather small drumstick and a good sized breast. This place is definitely convenience in the Marina area since they have their own parking lot. And by the looks of the number of cars there against the number of diners, one could guess that at least 2 of the cars were taking advantage of the free parking.

Ryley J.

Yelp

Called and confirmed corkage was allowed. Trekked in the rain, filled with mirth, joy, potential energy, verve. Joy and wonder on the horizon. My 30th birthday en route to being a blissful memory. Only to show up and be told we were misinformed. Mistreated. Maligned. I didn't catch the manager's name but his scowl is seared in my brain. Would have done anything to spend my birthday there, but now just prowling the streets, umbrella up, looking for ways to celebrate. Had to cancel our order of grilled cheese. Wouldn't wish this devastation on anyone. I'm begging you, take your hopes, dreams, and wishes somewhere else. (Worst decade of my life so far)

Dallas T.

Yelp

Great for late night food! I have been coming here for years, and I think it's the best front of the house staff they have had in awhile. Food is always great for diner food. And the vibe is cheesy but I expect it!

Lisa M.

Yelp

You absolutely must try the milkshakes at this place! Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly blended, these milkshakes are a delight for the taste buds. Not only are the milkshakes outstanding, but the hamburgers and club sandwiches also deserve applause. The patties are juicy, the toppings are fresh, and the sandwiches are well-constructed. For milkshake aficionados, food enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a satisfying meal, this place is a must-visit. Prepare to be impressed by the delightful milkshakes, delectable hamburgers, and club sandwiches. With fast service and convenient parking, it's an all-around win!

Ramona G.

Yelp

5 stars for the kindest staff! Here's why: I came here around 2am on 03/05 after bar hopping with my friend. I think all women can relate how scary it can be to be out at night and feel unsafe around men. My friend and I just wanted to get something to eat before heading home that night, when two young guys walked into the restaurant and started harassing my friend and me. We didn't know who they were and they sat down at our booth and wouldn't stop bothering us and were making unwanted advanced towards us. This one guy was even trying to eat my friend's food! Thank God the Mel's Drive-In staff noticed this interaction and one of the employees, I'm not sure if he was the shift leader or supervisor but he approached us and asked if we knew the two guys, when we said we did not, he told the two guys to stop bothering us. It restored our faith in humanity that night and made us feel good that not all men should be feared. Too bad I didn't get his name, but THANK YOU!

Carmelo O.

Yelp

Horrible costumer service. I have a service animal and just because he is a husky he was still denied. Another small dog was accepted right in-front of my eyes just a second later. The guy accepted them because they were women and he was talking to the young ladies in a very pervy way. I will never even consider going back to eat there because of the staff. I was with a bad taste even though I didn't even try the food. I hope the food is better than the costumer service. I never write Yelp reviews but I felt disrespected and

Deborah H.

Yelp

Came in and was seated right away.The person who seated us took our drink order. I ordered black breakfast tea. The tea arrived I add cream and sugar only to find it is lemon tea . Our waitress Brianna was very nice. She fixed my tea and took our order promptly. I got the chicken and waffles it was good but the wings were a little salty. My husband enjoyed his burger.

Devon M.

Yelp

DO NOT ORDER THE FRESH SQUEEZED ORANGE JUICE! I have been ordering here for years, and would always get their fresh squeezed orange juice because it was truly fresh squeezed. But no more, I have ordered it twice over the last month and have only received juice that has zero pulp, and has that non-mistakable pasteurized taste. Super disappointing because the cost is over $7 dollars. They should update their menu and be honest.

Tonitini C.

Yelp

Step into the past and have that after movie special at Mel's. I eat here, because it's nostalgic. Not to mention, the taste of their burgers have been consistent since they day I remember it. We used to eat here after hitting the club in Castro. They have a jukebox player that will play in the overhead speakers, its pretty cool. The dining tables are styled smaller, so you really have the 60's feel. The traditional decor and the set-up of a restaurant adds to the vibe.

Leicia W.

Yelp

Rick was the best server we have had in a very long time. So sweet and genuine and a cutie. The kale salad was surprisingly delicious. Always a good place for a quick sit down. Thank you Rick!

Adrian L.

Yelp

I was in the neighborhood and looking for a quick bite to eat. I drove by Mel's a couple times looking for parking, which can be challenging here. The parking lot Mel's had was a value add and I figured after over 30 years ago, I'd give them a try. It's pretty much was I remembered. The menu had the standard diner dishes and I decided to go for a Mel's Burger and a San Francisco Hot Dog...I guess I was a bit hungry:) The burger came with crispy shoe string fries. Everything was tasty. The service was good. If you're looking for a meal that's simple and tasty Mel's is nice choice.

Joanna B.

Yelp

After marathon expo I had a craving for Mel's. It was close enough to Sports Basement I went for it! Oddly, I was feeling shy and wanted to eat in the car as we just got dining trays. Yes, we do too much with the car accessories. I used a rideshare app with a pick-up option. I realized I couldn't edit my order. No one picked up the phone. I dashed in, made my requests and hopped back into my mobile to bask in heated-seat glory while water fell from the sky. I feel like I got extras. It was tasty. The staff was super nice. The parking lot is super small.

Robin A.

Yelp

Perfect late night selection, when you are starving and have 5 people all wanting different food! Delicious but we ordered same items and split Patty melts, onion rings, garlic park fries...it was all delicious, hit the spot!! Thank

Rachel R.

Yelp

Service and shakes were good, everything else was the opposite. Their definition of caramelized onion is a raw baddie who barely met the grill.

Kyle H.

Yelp

Nice diner with decent food and a convenient location! Somehow I've lived in the Bay for years and never set foot in a Mel's but that changed today! Sat down for a nice dinner in this retro diner that Ambiance 3/5. A bit over the top on the Nostalgia for my liking but I can see the appeal. I liked that the my have a jukebox there in the typical old-school diner fashion. Location is super convenient on Lombard in the Marina so that's a plus. Service - 3/5- The staff wasn't super respondent and took awhile to take our order so one star off for that. Not the friendliest of welcoming folks either. Food - 3/5 - Got the classic burger with Garlic fries. The burger was decent but a bit over cooked. Certainly can find much better burgers within a few block radius (Causwells, Roam, Balboa cafe, ect.). The garlic fries had a good amount of garlic but were a bit greasy for my tastes Overall, good spot to stop in for a quick dinner at their SF classic.

David N.

Yelp

Excited to order fish and chips. A complete failure. Frozen fish sticks would have been a better option. Nugget- sized fish. Tarter sauce of mayonnaise and relish was definitely an afterthought. Coleslaw a mushy mess. A few fries and a single black olive was the saving grace. GF ordered a vegan shake. Arrived with canned whipped cream on top. Do over. Her Impossible burger was okay and thus, a two star experience.

Eliza J.

Yelp

Well known establishment. No frills or thrills, just grubby good diner food. Shakes, banana splits, burgers, chili cheese fries... Hubby decided on Fried Chicken. Tasty, fresh, hot, lightly fried Big portions! I decided on Smothered short ribs and so glad I did! All I can say is stick to your ribs goodness!

Bryce M.

Yelp

I was in the city for a function and decided to take my girlfriend to Mel's drive in for breakfast. It's been years since I was last at Mel's and it is still good. I love the decor of the dining area. It's from a bygone era. Our server and the staff were wonderful. Took care of us. My girlfriend had the biscuits and gravy which she thoroughly enjoyed. I had a bite and it was very good. I had the eggs, sausage, and hash browns. The hash browns are the bomb! I have had there milkshakes in the past and I saw a customer have one and it looked great. If you are looking for a fun restaurant for a breakfast or a burger then Mel's is the place. I will be back. Oh.... They do have parking but it is small lot.

Will D.

Yelp

If you want to close 45 minutes early that's fine but at least don't be a huge douche about it to your customers of 20 years... shitty asshole service

Audrey F.

Yelp

After a long night of hanging out with friends in the marina/ north beach area, we can rely on Mel's for a yummy late night meal! Despite the night surges during the weekend, their staff is very accommodating and will even get the restaurant to sing happy birthday to you(; We went to Mel's because we were craving the bare minimum but it ended up being a great experience. If you're craving a "higher" end fast food restaurant experience, look no further. Their chicken sandwich is my go to and the portions are pretty big to me. Their milkshakes also are 10/10. I usually go for the cookies and cream. Mel's is great place to end your night after a night of bar hoping! This place is a 5/5 because of their reliability during those crazy nights!

Milton Y.

Yelp

Went to one off Lombard Street for breakfast. Had a coffee and omlette dish. Perhaps the restaurant is located in a touristy area, it was more crowded than I ever see a Mel's drive-in especially post-Covid. The food was good and service was standard fare. I had the El Rancho Breakfast Burrito whilst my friend had the Mel's Thick Slice French Toast. Presentation of both dish was spot on and delicious as all items were consumed.

Harper W.

Yelp

Amazing service. Classic SF spot with consistent great food. We ordered coffees and several breakfast items. All turned out amazing.

Abraham A.

Yelp

Let me start off by saying I'm a huge fan of Mel's diner, this location in particular is a great place since I work nearby. Always nice to visit San Francisco's very few late night restaurants and grab a coffee and pie. Most times I'm picking up some sliders or a side salad, depending on what day it is service can be so so I'm a huge fan of the 1950s restaurant feel and whatever they do they need to keep on doing it because we can't modernize this one like they did Van Ness location.

Audrey S.

Yelp

The Oreo milkshake is life changing. Straight liquid Oreo, fully saturated Oreo. The onion rings were scrumptious. Chicken tenders were everything we were looking for. Coloring books and crayons are provided, great for kids

Matt T.

Yelp

Stopped with co-workers for breakfast. Took 30 minutes just to get coffee...longer than that to order, and "bottomless coffee at $5" is no deal when you can't get it refilled. Some of our orders delivered 5+ minutes after the others, and then only when we reminded the waiter that he'd forgotten one of us. And then we had to remind him that he'd also forgotten the toast for all the orders. Still waiting on that coffee refill, btw. Then we asked for the check and sat there for 20 minutes watching our server ask the people in line on the sidewalk to be patient, when all he had to do was bring us our check and the 8-person table would be available. Took us 2 HOURS for breakfast, and we got there before 8am. And the prices -- even though we're all lifelong San Franciscans -- were still shockingly offensive.

Saahil S.

Yelp

A classic. Came here at around 7:30am last week after sunrise at the bridge, food was good but service lacking. Place is a fun retro style inside! We were asked for vaccine proof after entering, but as we pulled it out the server immediately walked away and left us waiting at the front for 5 minutes. There was basically no crowd inside and it's not like we were taking a long time on our end either. Once seated, we were fortunately able to order pretty quickly. I got the short stack with bacon and eggs. Food was good, especially the pancakes - light and fluffy! Overall, cute diner and decent breakfast. Would recommend.

Luis M.

Yelp

Food was great, the service was great ... I really recommend this place for tourists or locals.

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