News Summary
Tesla Diner, a retro-futuristic restaurant designed to attract EV drivers, has faced difficulties just weeks after opening. The diner has reduced its menu and altered operating hours, receiving mixed reviews from diners concerned about food quality and local community issues. Designed by Tesla’s chief designer and featuring unique technology, the diner aims to redefine casual dining while adapting to consumer feedback amid controversy surrounding its owner.
Hollywood, CA – Tesla Diner, a new retro-futuristic restaurant, is facing challenges just weeks after its grand opening on July 21, 2023. Originally created to attract electric vehicle (EV) drivers, the diner has significantly curtailed its menu and altered its hours of operation, leading to mixed reviews from diners and concerns from the local community.
The diner was designed by Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla’s chief designer, and is strategically located next to a Supercharger station. It has quickly gained public interest, with long lines forming on opening day. Chef Eric Greenspan, known for his work at Greenspan’s Grilled Cheese and MrBeast Burger, leads the kitchen.
Upon opening, the diner offered a diverse menu featuring items such as biscuits and gravy, cinnamon rolls, burgers, waffles, and breakfast sandwiches. However, as of August 5, the restaurant has condensed its offerings to only five sandwiches, two sides, two flavors of pie, shakes, and soft drinks. Discontinued items include the popular Epic Bacon, a veggie patty option, and various breakfast items like waffles, which are now limited to morning service.
Initially marketed as a 24-hour establishment, Tesla Diner now operates from 6 a.m. to midnight for non-Tesla vehicles, which are unable to charge on-site. The restaurant currently employs a team of 140 staff members and plans to adapt its order system through geofencing technology to streamline service for drivers within a designated radius.
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, announced the diner concept in 2018, envisioning a fusion of food service and electric vehicle charging. The diner features interactive components, including a humanoid robot that serves popcorn and showcases Tesla’s technology to enhance the dining experience.
Despite the innovative approach and design, customer feedback has been varied. Many have reported experiences with food quality that do not meet expectations, citing issues such as overcooked dishes and a lack of flavor. However, the tuna melt has received praise, characterized by a well-seasoned tuna salad served on toasted Tartine buttermilk bread.
The Hollywood location has also faced scrutiny tied to Musk’s controversial political affiliations and actions, which have influenced public perception of the diner. Local residents have expressed concern about light pollution generated by the diner’s large screens, and safety concerns arose following a reported injury caused by a falling table shade.
Looking ahead, Chef Greenspan has promised updates to the menu, suggesting it will be “forever evolving” in response to customer demand and operational hurdles. The diner’s unique offerings and ambitious design aim to redefine casual dining while aligning with Tesla’s commitment to electric vehicle innovation.
As Tesla Diner navigates these challenges, its future success will likely depend on its ability to adapt to consumer feedback and maintain a strong focus on operational efficiency in a rapidly changing environment.
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Additional Resources
- Eater: Tesla Diner Menu Reduced
- Google Search: Tesla Diner Los Angeles
- Eater: Tesla Diner Scene Report
- Wikipedia: Tesla, Inc.
- Eater: Los Angeles Restaurant Recommendations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tesla Restaurant
- Eater: Hotel El Roblar Restaurant Opening
- Google News: Restaurant News Los Angeles
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
