Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s latest venture—a 24-hour diner and drive-in concept blending retro aesthetics with futuristic tech—opened in Hollywood this week, generating mixed reactions for its quirky design and gadget-heavy dining experience. The Tesla Diner & Drive-In debuted Monday at 4:20 p.m., a time nod widely interpreted as a playful reference to cannabis culture, a theme Musk has occasionally embraced.
Described by Musk on social media platform X as “Grease meets The Jetsons with Supercharging,” the two-story stainless-steel structure seats over 250 patrons and features 80 electric vehicle charging stations. Its angular, metallic exterior has drawn comparisons to a 1950s-era UFO and a car showroom, while neon lights and two 20-meter LED screens—streaming movies via Tesla touchscreens—aim to evoke a retro-futuristic vibe.
The diner leans heavily on Tesla’s tech-forward branding. During its launch, a humanoid Optimus robot served popcorn to guests, while food arrived in Cybertruck-themed packaging. Though Tesla has not confirmed whether these elements are permanent, the company emphasized convenience for EV drivers, billing the site as an “island of good food, good vibes, and entertainment” during charging stops.
The menu offers classic American diner fare, including hot dogs, tuna melts, and a signature $13.50 “Tesla Burger” topped with “Electric Sauce”—a mysterious condiment left undefined. Beverages include “Charged Sodas” infused with natural caffeine. Behind the kitchen is Eric Greenspan, a Los Angeles chef known for operating delivery-only “ghost kitchens.” The New York Times reported that other chefs declined involvement in the project, though reasons remain unspecified.
Musk hinted on X that similar diners could launch globally if the Hollywood model succeeds, particularly near Tesla Supercharger hubs on major routes. The venture coincides with ongoing legal challenges for Tesla, including a trial over its Autopilot system’s role in a fatal crash.
While the diner’s long-term appeal remains uncertain, its launch underscores Musk’s penchant for merging technology with unconventional consumer projects—a strategy that continues to polarize critics and enthusiasts alike.
