Quality
Voted best breakfast, lunch, and dinner in California.
Loyalty
No. 1 in customer loyalty by Brand Keys Customer Loyalty Index.
History
The most famous diner in the world and an American classic since the 40's.
Historic Hollywood Brand
Established in 1947, Mel’s Drive-In - a fixture of American contemporary life - gained iconic American brand status after being featured in the 1973 comedy-drama American Graffiti by George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola.
Notably, Mel’s also inspired two successful TV shows: ABC's Happy Days with "Arnold’s Drive-In" and CBS's Alice with "Mels Diner." Today, Mel’s is a globally recognized, Next Generation brand, renowned for serving top-quality meals and baked goods, setting industry standards for quality and customer service.
We're expanding nationwide with even more exciting offerings.
There’s A Reason Why Mel’s Drive-In Restaurants Have Held Parties For Arnold Schwarzenegger, Diddy, Lana Del Rey, Al Pacino, Snoop Dogg, And Countless Other Stars. Everyone From The Girl Next Door To The Rich And Famous Loves Mel’s.
We Are The Go-To Spot For An Early Morning Short Stack, A Delicious Mid-Day Santa Fe Salad, Or A Comforting Short Rib Grilled Cheese. If You’re A Night Owl...It’s Easy To See That Mel’s Late-Night Menu Is Perfect For Those After-Hour Get-Togethers.
Specialized
Collaboration
Mel’s Drive-In is expanding through franchising - with technology-driven site selection, unique design, training, digital marketing, and the #1 All-American diner menu, you'll benefit from Mel’s iconic Hollywood brand. Build your future with us, backed by decades of excellence in menu, brand, and community development. Wondering if you have what it takes?
Media & Consumer
Attention
For decades, people around the world have celebrated Mel’s Drive-In in movies, television, podcasts, commercials, radio, music, photography, and now social media. Restauranteurs know that kind of brand awareness is great for business.
Mel’s Drive-In restaurants get attention. But our expertly executed menu, served in a courteous and cheerful manner is the reason why Mel’s consistently leaves a lasting impression.
Mel’s Drive-In Locations Offer A Memorable Dining Experience, Immersing Guests In "Googie Architecture," Vintage Decor, And Classic Tunes. Yet, It's Our Iconic Menu That Truly Sets Us Apart.
Renowned for our 100% American Angus beef burgers, thick milkshakes, and more, Mel’s satisfies with classics like buttermilk pancakes, patty melts, and Grandma's chicken soup. But we're not just about tradition; our next-gen menu brings exciting options that appeal to Millennials and Gen Z. So, get ready for a taste of the future!
Historic Brand & Opportunity
Our leadership team will work directly with you to locate, design, construct, operate, and market an economical 3,500 to 5,000-square-foot Mel’s Drive-In restaurant. Your location will benefit from our innovative marketing initiatives, national promotion, as well as local social media and industry public relations.
A typical Mel’s Drive-In has an “all-in” initial investment as low as $1.2 million, before landlord contribution.*
*See 2023 FDD for details.
Contact Us Form
New York Residents: This advertisement is not an offering. An offering can only be made by a prospectus filed first with the Department of Law of the State of New York. Such filing does not constitute approval by the Department of Law.
California Residents: Our website has not been reviewed or approved by the California department of business oversight. Any complaints concerning the content of this website may be directed to the California department of business oversight at www.dbo.ca.gov.