Brandon Okumura

An awesome diner with a great vibe and good food. I got an omelette sandwich, and my partner got a ham steak meal. We also got a peanut butter milkshake. We both thought the amount of food you get for the price was worth it. I imagine it gets pretty busy here for breakfast, but for a late brunch there was plenty of parking. It's right near the 10 on ramp so traffic around the area gets pretty packed. Overall, another great diner in Santa Monica!

Dane LaFleur

Overall a great experience with fantastic food! It's a classic diner style with booth seating with some tables having music selectors. The fresh toast was great and fluffy just like the pancakes. The Arnold Palmer was the perfect ratio which is different to get right. I like the frequent visits from Yasmin. She was a great waitress and knew the menu well which definitely helped me decide what to order. I highly recommend this place for the great American diner experience.

+12

Michael Preiss

Classic American Diner Vibes at Mel’s Diner – Worth a Visit! Mel’s Diner in Santa Monica has a very cool and nostalgic look – classic American diner style with some tables even featuring little jukeboxes, which adds a fun retro touch to the atmosphere. The staff was very friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, so there’s something for everyone. The food was freshly prepared and tasted great – classic comfort food done right. The only downside is the price – it’s a bit on the higher side for diner fare, so the value for money is just okay. Still, all in all, it’s a fun and tasty spot that’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

+18

Maggie R

We stumbled upon Mel's Drive-In by accident and I have to admit, it was a nice surprise! They have a large banner outside that says "Mimosas $6" which is one of the things that caught my attention lol!! The atmosphere is like walking into an old 50's dinner would look like, so cute!! Mark, our server was pleasant and so helpful! My boyfriend cut into his burger and because it was so thick, the minute he picked it up, the patty fell out and onto the ground, he looked like a child that had just dropped his ice cream lol!! We told Mark and he was so quick to order him a whole new burger!! But let me tell you, they were Amazing!!! So so good, juicy and delicious!! We had such a great visit and thoroughly enjoyed our meal!! We'll definitely be back!! The place was busy and now we know why!! So so good!! Will Not Disappoint!!!

+3

alex

I recently had a chance to try Mel’s Drive-In, and it was a good experience. The restaurant looks beautiful and has a great retro vibe. It kind of reminded me of diners you see in old movies. The interior inside is beautiful. From what I’ve heard, this place is pretty popular because it’s been filmed in a few movies. One really cool detail is they have jukeboxes on the tables. I’ve never seen that before. And they’re not just for show, you can actually use them. We didn’t try them out, but they are super vibey. As for the food, I ordered “The Famous Melburger” with fries. The burger was good but not amazing. I asked for it medium, but the patty wasn’t cooked evenly, some parts were dry, and there wasn’t much sauce. Only the small part of patty was juicy. The ingredients tasted fresh and the bun was soft. Overall, a pretty standard burger you can get in diners. The fries were great. Crispy, perfectly salted, and not dry at all. The portion was generous too. Prices here are a bit high. For example, coke was about $5 (refillable), and the burger with fries cost more than in some typical burger restaurants. Service was great. It was friendly, helpful, and fast. The food came out in about 15 minutes. Overall, it was amazing experience. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and would say it’s worth visiting at least once. The food was 4/5, and both the vibe and service were 5/5. I’m not sure I’d come back just for the food, but I’m glad I went.

Hayley Di Naso

You can’t go wrong with Mel’s! This is hands down my favorite diner in LA. The sunset location is great too, but it’s not as close to the beach; and nothing ends a good beach day like dinner at Mel’s. This has been my comfort place for years. My dad took me here as a kid, and now my boyfriend brings me for date nights. I’m so lucky! Point to anything on the menu and it will be cooked perfectly or exactly to your liking. Whether it’s breakfast for dinner or dinner for breakfast, it’s anything goes at any time. Let the sound of the oldies and happy people wash over you, as you sip on something cold, or bite into something delicious. There is always plenty of parking and seating, so come anytime and stay as long as you please. Just don’t forget your quarters, if you want to pick a song. Xx, H

+1

Dave W

Super cool, vintage diner at the end of Route 66. Great vibe. Food is good. We both had a burger that was decent. Vanilla shake and Vanilla Coke are tasty as well. Yazmin is a sweetie and took care of us. Definitely a place to visit at the end of your Route 66 journey. Or the beginning, I guess.

+1

Hubert B.

Mel’s Drive-In – Santa Monica Stepping into Mel’s Drive-In in Santa Monica feels like a nostalgic journey back to classic Americana. The decor immediately immerses you in the past, with charming Route 66 murals and vintage-inspired booths that create a fun, laid-back atmosphere perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. The food itself is satisfying comfort fare. I tried the tuna melt, which came toasted just right with a hearty, flavorful filling, complemented by crispy, seasoned fries. The presentation, complete with the signature Mel’s skewer, was a nice touch. My companion opted for the chicken wrap, which was generously stuffed with juicy grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, and a tangy sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Both dishes were accompanied by crispy fries and a side of ketchup served in a charming paper cup. Service was attentive, with staff making sure we had everything we needed. The menu offers a wide variety of diner classics, from burgers to sandwiches, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Plus, the location’s history as the endpoint of the legendary Route 66 adds a layer of charm and significance to the experience. While the food is solid diner fare (nothing groundbreaking but consistently good), the ambiance and nostalgia make Mel’s Drive-In a worthwhile stop, especially for those looking to enjoy a slice of Americana on a sunny California afternoon. Rating: 4/5

+4

Jesabel C.

I'm so happy we visited because the food, service, and atmosphere were awesome. I am a fan of authentic old-school diners, and this is it! The staff is courteous, the place is clean, including the restrooms, and the decor does transport you to that era (think Happy Days). The jukebox is gorgeous, and the mini ones are fully functioning. There's nothing more disappointing than discovering a jukebox that doesn't work. The fact that it's on Route 66 makes it even more iconic! Life IS a highway.

+7

Rod Ressell

I had the Reuben, Ah-nolds protein shake, an Inclined IPA, and all were great. Although, I'd add malt or something thick to Ah-nolds shake, just a bit too diluted/icy imo (not a complaint, just a preference) I love this diner top to bottom. I adore the architecture and the way the place is laid out, I love the throwback vibe (great music 50's-80's). I love the clean bathrooms, clean counters, clean tables, and the dedicated staff. What I love the most, was a perfectly toasted bread on my Reuben, and perfectly toasted french fries, both crispy and both flawless. Beer was cold. The glasses were clean. And everything tastes amazing. I can't wait to come back for breakfast. It's my new, most favorite restaurant in Santa Monica, and LA in general. Great job, and thank you for a great meal!

+11

I went to Mel's Drive-In in Santa Monica recently. I dined in. I had the Nutella French Toast along with a Thick Old-fashioned Strawberry Milkshake. I enjoyed the food and drink. The service was good.

I went to Mel's Drive-In in Santa Monica recently. I dined in. I had the Nutella french toast along with a Thick Old-fashioned Strawberry Milkshake. I enjoyed the food and drink. The service was …

Starting Rt 66 from the west and had to make this a stop. Retro decor, friendly staff, quick service, and one of THE BEST burgers I have had in a long time. Super juicy, crisp bacon....just perfectio…

Starting Rt 66 from the west and had to make this a stop. Retro decor, friendly staff, quick service, and one of THE BEST burgers I have had in a long time. Super juicy, crisp bacon....just perfect…

Starting Rt 66 from the west and had to make this a stop. Retro decor, friendly staff, quick service, and one of THE BEST burgers I have had in a long time. Super juicy, crisp bacon....just perfe…

Love Mel's, our waiter Mark with the red armbands was excellent thank you for being awesome

Came in on Saturday for my brothers bday and the service was top tier . The host was very welcoming and helped me make his day very special , thank you! We also had great service from our server…

Came here while having friend from out of town visiting and we decided coming here based on the cool ambiance and location.\n\nService was top notch and the food was delicious!

Always wanted to try this restaurant and was happy I did. Location is easy if coming off the 10. They have their own parking area and the burger and home fries I had were both excellent. Omelettes …

Food really \ngood, ambiance fun, service -fabulous! We loved Mark - who paid warm attention to us, remembered our quirky order details, went beyond to satisfy our needs, and treated us like he was…

Chill spot out of the way of the promenade but walkable to the beach. Its a good vibe. Food is expensive but location location location. I just came to get work done. Like I said it's chill. Not su…

Yummy diner menu and service with a smile. We’d flown in from the East Coast and were looking for a menu that offered both breakfast and dinner options and this place didn’t disappoint. The veggie om…

Yummy diner menu and service with a smile. We’d flown in from the East Coast and were looking for a menu that offered both breakfast and dinner options and this place didn’t disappoint. The veggie …

Yummy diner menu and service with a smile. We’d flown in from the East Coast and were looking for a menu that offered both breakfast and dinner options and this place didn’t disappoint. The veggie …

It is so good! I ordered the banana milkshake and the classic buttermilk pancakes, and my dad got the short stack pancakes and the refill coffee. All was very good! I even went back the next day and …

It is so good! I ordered the banana milkshake and the classic buttermilk pancakes, and my dad got the short stack pancakes and the refill coffee. All was very good! I even went back the next da…

It is so good! I ordered the banana milkshake and the classic buttermilk pancakes, and my dad got the short stack pancakes and the refill coffee. All was very good! I even went back the next day an…

We have traveled Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica and we took the opportunity to find the second terminus of the Historic American Highway. A couple years ago we had breakfast at Lou Mitchell’…

Great authentic American diner experience. Went for breakfast and had a great meal and the best coffee that I’d had in the States. The staff were great, very friendly and genuine. Definitely give i…

Great authentic American diner experience. Went for breakfast and had a great meal and the best coffee that I’d had in the States. The staff were great, very friendly and genuine. Definitely give i…

Great authentic American diner experience. Went for breakfast and had a great meal and the best coffee that I’d had in the States. The staff were great, very friendly and genuine. Definitely give i…

Mel's is an upscale diner and it is always great. We stop there whenever we can. The food, service and prices are all great. This one is located on Lincoln Blvd., right before the 10 Freeway which…

Very nice interior, cute little spot. Huge menu, interesting items. coffee was delicious, juke boxes at the tables. Cleaned out plates!

Kimberly Sanchez

Went here after watching a movie the food was great I thought we had to wait to be seated but that wasnt the case. The chili cheese fries were so good!

Edwin

Rolled in pretty late around 10pm thanks to a flight delay, completely wiped and starving. Honestly, couldn’t have picked a better spot. Started with a cold pint of IPA and went straight for the Famous Melburger, which really hit the spot. The burger was solid medium rare, juicy, and just what I needed at that hour. I swapped fries for coleslaw to feel slightly healthier, and it was actually pretty tasty. The retro vibe was a fun bonus, it genuinely felt like stepping into an old-school movie set. I even dropped a few quarters into the jukebox just to lean into the experience. All in all, it was the perfect late-night fix when I needed comfort food and a chill place to unwind.

We came in after a long day of touristing and the place and food felt heavenly. I ordered the sunset burger and it was HUGE, proportions are so big and generous. They also had pies, which aren't my…

Food is kind of nasty. Got breakfast sandwich. Greasy. Hash browns were cold. Coffee just OK. Server was very nice. Otherwise, big disappointment.

Food is kind of nasty. Got breakfast sandwich. Greasy. Hash browns were cold. coffee just OK. Server was very nice. Otherwise, big disappointment.

Today wasn't the greatest but still worth the drive. I got the J's Jalapeño burger, medium, which came out charred. The burger tasted ok but could have been better. Ruben sandwich was dryer than ex…

This is the best of the Mel's Drive-in restaurants! Service was spot on and the food filling and delicious. I was particularly happy with the environment and atmosphere of the restaurant. It was …

Don’t go there. expensive and bad service. The Mexican waitress added side dishes that we didn’t order. My husband and I ordered a simple breakfast (omelette with hash browns and a coke) and the to…

We stopped into Mel’s Diner for breakfast. The food was very good. Omelette and home fries for me. The kids loved the smoothie. Good service.

Pretty good spot when the owners not there walking around with his dog short rib sandwich was great.

Service was great and the place does have the diner vibe. However, the prices are very high for what you get. Smash burger and grill cheese w/rib meat set me back $50 ( no drinks). The flavor was j…

Service was great and the place does have the diner vibe. However, the prices are very high for what you get. Smash burger and grill cheese w/rib meat set me back $50 ( no drinks). The flavor was j…

I ordered take out on Uber Eats takeout and upon getting home my son and wife shared the chicken noodle soup. \n\nAs soon as they were taking their first spoonfuls they notice a cooked fly mixed amon…

I ordered take out on Uber Eats takeout and upon getting home my son and wife shared the chicken noodle soup. \n\nAs soon as they were taking their first spoonfuls they notice a cooked fly mi…

I like Mel's but not this location. Don't come here for the food. It's overpriced and not that great. The aesthetic is very cool though. \n\nWaiter forgot my drink and when I asked him for it he pr…

This place is nuts $41 for a burger, fries and a coke... this was my first time there... walked in and walked out and will never look back

Terrible late service, making us wait not taking order while serving others who came in after we did. Wouldn't recommend.

Terrible late service, making us wait not taking order while serving others who came in after we did. Wouldn't recommend.

I ordered take out on Uber Eats and upon getting home my son and wife shared the chicken noodle soup. As soon as they were taking their first spoonfuls they notice a cooked fly mixed amongst the vegetables. I immediately went back to the restaurant thinking they were at least going to attempt to make things a little better by offering me another item. I discretely made my way in and showed the manager the soup. The manager had a blatantly unapologetic attitude. He inspected the soup and then offered me another to go bowl, which I declined to take as my wife and 8 year old would not have dared to try it after being so grossed out. He then said he can only do a refund. I reluctantly accepted. I then waited 15 minutes while they were trying to figure out how to refund me thru Uber Eats. After waiting so long he came out and said he’s only able to refund me in cash. I again politely asked why it was difficult for him to simply offer me another item to try to make the situation a little better, I really didn’t want the refund, I just wanted a sandwich to feed my family especially after waiting so long while they were trying to refund me. He grew increasingly frustrated and turned his back away from me while I was talking after basically throwing the refund at me. In short, this restaurant nor manager, seem to care eating the costs of a club sandwich to make a customer’s negative and gross experience a little better. I dared to let the restaurant patrons know that they should not order or eat the soup as I exited the building, something I wouldn’t have done had I been treated with respect and understanding. I really hope they weren’t careless and actually made a new pot.

I was very disappointed 😔 on this place we went in Valentine’s Day and our server was just rushing and not checking on us and we asked for 3 things a sweet heart shake n some a fries n a dessert. But was more please to serve the other people behind me than us .told him it was my first time he was just didn’t care I ask for the shake n waters and said I’ll put that in right now and he brought out our waters but no shake . Food was super great 😊 n please but the service was not great . I wouldn’t go back here again it ruined my experience and I love diners and I think I was charged for something I didn’t get also I was trying to finish paying n as soon as I clicked no tip he snatched the machine out of my hands . That was rude and I wanted to click print receipt but couldn’t and was upset he did that . So personally I won’t be visiting this location again.