Some folks have an affinity for the ‘golden era‘ of things past, while others chase the latest trends in technology and fashion. There isn’t a gearhead alive who doesn’t love the ’57 Chevy but how many would daily-drive a carbureted, half-century old car, in this modern age of electric, self-driving vehicles?
Similarly, many gearheads have a soft spot for old diners, like Flo’s V8 Cafe in Anaheim, Times Square Diner in North York, and Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank. They are a direct connection back to the golden age of motoring, when chrome was king and the drive-in movie theatre was the height of entertainment.
In many ways Tesla is represents everything wrong with the automotive universe rolled into car (and person). Boring, ugly, overweight cars with so much power that its actually a waste. Yet fanboys line up for new models because it’s the ‘IT’ car. That’s why it’s so confusing that the Tesla Diner in Hollywood seems like such a cool place.
Two years ago, Tesla took over the old ‘Shakey’s Pizza Parlour’ on Santa Monica Blvd and what they’ve created is astonishing. A two story space-age styled building, the 24-hour diner also has two ‘drive-in movie theatre’ screens showing short films. Patron’s can hang out in their Tesla parked at one of the 80 supercharger stations, or walk up to the upper-level ‘Skypad’ patio to watch movies from there. Inside the actual restaurant is seating for 250 patrons, with the kitchen serving up classic American diner food, with some health-conscious options.
When the Tesla Diner idea was floated by that Musk fellow back in 2023 the idea of a 50’s style burger joint didn’t seem very ambitious. Describing it at the time as the movie ‘Grease‘ meets TVs ‘The Jetsons‘ sounded like more hype-man talk.
However, the genius of the Tesla Diner is how it enhances the experience of charging an electric vehicle, which normally sucks. By offering comfort food and retro entertainment to a ‘captive audience’ of Tesla drivers who would otherwise be anxiously waiting half an hour for a charge, suddenly turns it to a night out. Bring the kids, go on a date, hang out with a buddy and watch old Jetson’s cartoons on the big screen. Suddenly that 30 minutes doesn’t seem long enough.
The guy that runs Tesla is… polarizing. His politics earned him a lot of hate, and caused the sales of Tesla vehicles to drop by 70% while inviting vandalism of Tesla stealerships. But you have to hand it to him on this one.
The Tesla Diner is a genius idea, and it’s everything that gearheads love; drive-in movies, hanging out in the parking lot, ‘car hops’ on roller skates bringing out the food. IF they ever open one in Toronto, we’ll be there.
I was a little confused on this Tesla Diner idea but it seems like it’s a nice one-off, something unique to visit. i’m not particularly sure this would take off in terms of other locations (just something about it I can’t articulate). Nevertheless, it is a cool idea. Mike
As a one-off, the Tesla Diner will work. It can make money as a restaurant, and provide great marketing for a brand who’s sales have been on the ropes all year long.
They’ll probably open these in major cities where demand could support it. Hell, here in Toronto, Tesla drivers hang out in the parking lot of the dealership (charging) all night long. Looks SO suspicious, but it’s just charging going on.
Is there a chance that Tesla Diners will replace highway rest stops and gas stations? I can’t see it happening. I can’t believe Shell and Exxon ever let Tesla get a foot hold in the mobile energy distribution business with that NACS plug / charging standard.