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Mel's Drive-In
$$ · American, Burgers

801 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 227-0793
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Late Night Burgers in SoMa Best Family Friendly American in SoMa Best French Fries in SoMa

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Mel's Drive-In 7.9
SOMA
Vibes: Family Friendly Favorites Comfort Food Classics Quick Bites Champions Late Night Legends
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.

Hours

Monday7am - 11pm
Tuesday7am - 11pm
Wednesday7am - 11pm
Thursday7am - 11pm
Friday7am - 3am
Saturday7am - 3am
Sunday7am - 11pm