"Stepping into Mel’s Drive-In feels like walking straight into a living postcard from classic Americana. The glowing neon signage, retro façade, and constant buzz make it instantly iconic, especially at night when the lights bring the whole block to life. There’s an effortless charm here that blends nostalgia with the energy of San Francisco’s nightlife. From the outside alone, you can tell this is more than just a diner it’s a landmark. The atmosphere feels welcoming, familiar, and cinematic all at once. Whether you’re stopping in after a long day or bringing friends from out of town, Mel’s feels like a must-visit experience rather than just a meal. It’s the kind of place that stays memorable long after you leave."

"We just got a mimosa, a milkshake, and split a burger with onion rings, it was all very nice. While the prices weren't that great it want too bad either. In N Out and ShakeShack may have better prices but the atmosphere was a little better and I didn't have to wait for a seat or stand while eating like some other places. All in all it was good, we had a great time and my wife really enjoyed it. They had a nice Thanksgiving theme going on too."

"Classic spot with great vibes! Stopped at Mel’s Drive In on Lombard for breakfast before hitting the road and it totally hit the spot. I had the avocado toast with poached eggs and bacon on the side super fresh, creamy, and perfectly seasoned. My friend got the breakfast burrito (“burrito bomb”) and loved it. Coffee was hot, service was friendly, and the retro diner atmosphere with the little jukebox at the booth made the whole experience even better. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a real San Francisco breakfast experience before a long drive!"

"Took a while to get table service. Crispy fried chicken was burnt on the outside. Fries were cold (they did get me a fresh bowl of fries). Roll was refrigerator-cold. This used to be one of my favorite stops for their country fried chicken plate. I was bummed."

"Food was sub par, service was decent - loved the atmosphere although our mini table side jukebox did not work. Fun place but not for the food!"