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Mel's Drive-In
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Mel's Drive-In
7.9
Classic diner a block from Moscone slinging griddled burgers, shakes, and late hours most nights. Families and night owls alike use it as a reliable pre- or post-movie bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Melburger, Patty Melt on Rye, Garlic Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Downtown diner heritage with reliable late-night burger service.
Who should go: Moviegoers and convention-night diners
When to visit: After 9pm for easy seating and quick service
What to order: Melburger, patty melt, shake
Insider tip: Ask for well-done griddle sear if you like extra crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid garages at the Metreon across the street; limited meter parking nearby after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, tees, and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible but the diner buzz is steady.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on movie/convention crowds.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; tables turn quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie burgers, grilled cheese, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited—possible to customize salads and fries, but no dedicated vegan entrees.
Gluten-free options: Limited—burgers can be served without a bun; fries are safe but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for casual dates if you’re going to a movie nearby, but the vibe is more retro diner than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Mel’s doesn’t take reservations. Walk-ins are standard and you’ll usually be seated quickly outside of peak convention rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—booths, high chairs, and a kid-friendly menu make it easy for families with children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Late-night reliability and diner classics right by the Metreon and convention center.
Skip if: You’re seeking chef-driven burgers, upscale ambiance, or a quieter dining room.
Mel's Drive-In
7.7
Classic Bay Area diner right by the Metreon with all-day breakfasts, burgers, and roomy booths. Friendly service and a straightforward menu make it an easy pre- or post-movie family stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Patty melt, Buttermilk pancakes, Hand-spun milkshake
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Retro diner staples and big booths steps from Yerba Buena Gardens.
Who should go: Families before movies or museum visits
When to visit: Late breakfast or early dinner to avoid crowds
What to order: Patty melt, pancakes, vanilla shake
Insider tip: Ask for a corner booth—easier for stroller parking and sharing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking at the 5th & Mission Garage across the street; limited metered street spots nearby fill quickly.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate—background chatter from families and music, but conversation at your table is comfortable.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes depending on movie showtimes nearby.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even during peak hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, salads, grilled cheese, veggie burgers, and sides are available.
Vegan options: Limited—salads and fries can be modified; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—no designated gluten-free prep area, but some salads and egg dishes can be ordered without bread.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless you want a casual, retro vibe—it’s more about comfort than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Peak times before and after Metreon movies may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—big booths, high chairs, a kid’s menu, and patient servers make it an easy choice for families with children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Casual family meals before or after movies, with large booths and all-day breakfasts that competitors don’t always offer.
Skip if: You want a quiet or upscale dining experience—opt for nearby bistros or rooftop restaurants instead.
Mel's Drive-In
7.9
Retro diner plating multiple fry styles—from curly to bacon ranch cheese fries—late into the night. Reliable spot before or after a game or convention, with plenty of booths and quick refills.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic parmesan fries, Bacon ranch cheese fries, Loaded short rib fries
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Wide fry menu with nostalgic diner flair and late hours.
Who should go: Groups craving classic diner plates
When to visit: Fri–Sat late night after events
What to order: Garlic parmesan fries, curly fries, loaded short rib fries
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for fastest service during peak hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated garage parking available across the street at the 5th & Mission garage (paid hourly). Street parking is scarce and metered until late.
Dress code: Casual attire—jeans, sneakers, and game-day wear are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate to loud—background music and lively groups mean you can talk, but not in hushed tones.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak post-event hours, especially Fridays and Saturdays.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; booths and counter seats often open.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—curly fries, garlic parmesan fries, salads, and veggie burger options.
Vegan options: Limited—plain fries and some sides, but most loaded fry dishes include cheese or meat.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—fries may share fryers with breaded items, so not celiac-safe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More playful than romantic—great for a casual, low-pressure date, but not suited for a quiet or intimate evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Mel’s is walk-in friendly. Expect waits after conventions or Giants games, but booths usually turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—plenty of booth seating, kids’ menu, and a lively diner vibe make it welcoming for families with children.
Best For
Better for: Late-night fry variety and nostalgic diner atmosphere, with reliable service even after events.
Skip if: You want quiet dining or specialized vegan/gluten-free menus—nearby upscale or niche spots may serve you better.