SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA — A kitchen fire Tuesday morning has forced Mel’s Drive-In on Lombard Street to close indefinitely, putting a sudden pause on one of San Francisco’s most recognizable late-night diner staples.
Fire Prompts Indefinite Closure at Lombard Street Location
The Lombard Street restaurant is now shut down with no reopening date announced, following the kitchen fire reported Tuesday morning. The closure impacts a location that has long been a go-to stop for locals and tourists looking for a classic diner meal at all hours.
Why This Particular Mel’s Drive-In Matters to San Francisco
While Mel’s has grown into a chain over the years, this Lombard Street spot is widely seen as unique within the brand because it is described as the longest continuously running Mel’s Drive-In. For many customers, that history is part of what makes the restaurant feel like a piece of the city’s identity rather than just another diner.
The Restaurant’s 1950s Diner Style Helped Make It a Landmark
Mel’s Drive-In is known for its nostalgic, retro vibe that aims to bring diners back to the 1950s. That theme—paired with its reputation as an iconic late-night destination—has made the Lombard Street location a familiar name for generations of San Francisco visitors and residents.
What Customers Should Know Right Now
With the restaurant closed indefinitely, customers should expect the Lombard Street location to remain dark until repairs and inspections are completed and the business announces next steps. No timeframe was provided in the information shared.
What Happens Next
The next major update will likely be whether the restaurant provides a reopening plan, repair timeline, or operational changes after the kitchen fire. Until then, the Lombard Street Mel’s remains closed.
Have you eaten at the Lombard Street Mel’s Drive-In, or is it one of those San Francisco spots you always meant to try? Share your memories and thoughts with the WingsPNW.com community.
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