Mels Drive-In — Restaurant in West Hollywood

Ah, Mel’s Drive-In on the Sunset Strip—a true gem that’s been keeping LA weird and wonderful since, well, forever. Walking into Mel’s feels like stepping back in time, to a place where burgers are served with a side of nostalgia, and you half-expect to see James Dean brooding in a corner booth.

Now, I’m not saying Mel himself is back there flipping burgers and shaking up milkshakes, but if he were, I wouldn’t be surprised. The man—or should I say, the legend—knows how to craft a burger that can power me through a late-night workout or a brainstorming session that goes until 3 AM. Because let’s face it, sometimes you just need a double cheeseburger to spark those creative juices.

But Mel’s isn’t just about the food. It’s about the experience—the neon lights, the classic cars lined up outside, and the waitstaff who somehow manage to pull off the retro look without looking like they’re on their way to a Halloween party. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer, maybe order that extra side of fries because, well, you’re at Mel’s, and why the hell not?

So yeah, Mel’s Drive-In is more than just a pit stop on the Strip—it’s a cultural institution. A place where you can refuel both your body and your spirit, with a side of sass and a whole lot of flavor. And if you happen to catch Mel himself wiping down a table or handing you a menu, well, just know you’re in the presence...

I visited Mel’s Drive-In at Sunset Plaza (8585 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood), and it was honestly one of the most memorable moments of my trip to Los Angeles. At first, everything was just perfect, the retro vibe, classic diner music, and warm California sunset setting the mood. I ordered the Hollywood Burger, paired with crispy golden fries and a cold refreshing beer, and just sat back, completely relaxed and soaking in the iconic atmosphere of West Hollywood.

But what started as a chill evening turned into a heart-stopping moment when I realized I had lost my wallet and not just any wallet, but the one that held all my most important documents, including my passport. Without it, I wouldn’t be able to return to my home country. I felt panic rise in my chest and was literally on the verge of tears.

Luckily, the staff at Mel’s Drive-In were incredibly kind, calm, and quick to help. One of them had found my wallet and kept it safe, and when they handed it back to me completely intact, I almost cried out of relief and gratitude.

It was not just about great food or a nostalgic American diner experience. It was about genuine kindness. Mel’s Drive-In gave me not only a taste of Hollywood but also a memory that I will never forget. Thank you to the amazing staff, you didn’t just serve food, you...

This used to be one of my regular eateries when I lived in the area. I hadnt been here in about a year. I ordered steak & eggs which was always my go to. Only this time the food was just so so. The steak was overcooked and the eggs were undercooked like to the point they were almost raw on the 'sunny side'.. that i had to ask them to cook it some more.. only they cooked the underside some more and still the top was questionable.. I mean seriously who screws up fried eggs esp in a place that serves food like that all the time. They also used to do hand cut red skin potatoes which have now become small diced potatoes which taste more like hash browns. It was jst really sorry & disappointing but if id never been there before id still feel that way cause it just wasnt enjoyable. The one thing that was pretty good were the biscuits. The server was ok friendly but not on point i had to keep asking for things like refills and even to get sauce for my steak i had to ask. Basically from the overall experience it felt a bit like the place has 'stopped caring' and lost its standards a bit. I think it will be some time before I go there again. **Also just to note you now have to prove evidence of vaccination to...