Cauê H.
9/24/2025
Stopped by this spot for breakfast and had a good experience. The place has a really nice vibe and the ambiance is great. The staff was friendly and polite, which made the visit even better. The...
Mel's Kitchen
$$
Closed
(296)
Photos
1050 Van Ness Ave
San Francisco, CA 94109
History
In 1947, Mel Weiss and Harold Dobbs opened the first drive-in restaurant in San Francisco, Mels drive-in. At the time, the drive-in restaurant concept was just beginning in America, and the agreeable weather of California was ideal for year round carhop service. The original location of Mels drive-in was 140 South Van Ness Avenue. It consisted of ample grounds, attractively landscaped with the capacity for 110 cars, and a two-story rectangular building. Anyone who has seen the 1973 film
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Reviews
3.5296 reviews
Julia L.
9/15/2025
Came here 09/13/25 at around 3 pm. Inside was quite nice and spacious. Since it's not dinner time, there were plenty of seats. Friendly staff. Ordered a clam chowder bowl w bread bowl...
John A.
7/17/2025
Mel's has several restaurants. Each of my reviews about Mail is tied to a particular location. I had lunch here with my kids who were in town on vacation. Mid afternoon I don't know if that...
Abel A.
9/29/2025
Service was slow but staff was courteous. Burger was ok with decent flavor but over-cooked for my liking. Restaurant was clean.
Lorraine G.
9/29/2025
If you're staying at the Marriott Courtyard Downtown on Van Ness and Geary stop in to Mel's for breakfast, lunch or dinner. After a long flight it was a welcome sight. The delicious burger...
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