News Summary
Tesla Diner, Elon Musk’s first restaurant, opened in Hollywood featuring a retro-futuristic design and 80 electric vehicle charging stations. The diner operates 24/7, offering classic diner food and a unique experience with a robot server and geofence ordering system. The soft launch saw thousands of Tesla fans gather, while protests against Musk’s ventures occurred nearby. Plans for expansion are already in the works depending on the success of this location.
California – Tesla Diner officially opened its doors on Monday in Hollywood, marking Elon Musk’s first venture into the restaurant industry. Located at the former site of a Shakey’s Pizza, the diner features a retro-futuristic design that reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation. The establishment is unique for its inclusion of 80 electric vehicle charging stations and two massive 66-foot screens, making it a hub for Tesla owners and diners alike. Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, it caters to night owls and day-trippers, providing a unique dining experience at any hour.
On its opening day, Tesla Diner attracted more than 1,000 customers, all eager to see what the new concept had to offer. Many Tesla owners dressed their vehicles with custom decals for the occasion, including playful designs featuring the popular Doge meme. Guests experienced a lively atmosphere as they waited in line, with some noting the friendly interactions among diners.
The menu at Tesla Diner includes classic American diner fare, featuring items such as the “Tesla Burger” and “Epic Bacon.” Curated by chef Eric Greenspan, it also boasts options like fried chicken & waffles, grilled cheese, and tuna melts. Prices for menu items range from $4 for fries to $15 for biscuits with red gravy, appealing to a variety of tastes and budgets. Customers can handle their orders through an app that also allows them to watch movies on the giant screens or right from their vehicles.
The diner has incorporated elements of Tesla technology, including a humanoid robot named Optimus who serves popcorn. Furthermore, an innovative “geofence” ordering system prepares meals based on the vehicle’s location, allowing for a seamless pickup experience upon arrival. A 360-degree rooftop is accessible by staircase, offering stunning views of the massive screens and a showcase of Tesla’s next-generation robots.
The soft launch prior to the official opening had generated considerable buzz online, spotlighting the unique design and experience awaiting customers. Elon Musk, ever the visionary, expressed plans to expand the Tesla Diner concept to other major cities and Supercharger locations worldwide, conditional on the success of the Hollywood establishment.
While the exciting new diner drew a significant crowd, it also came with its share of controversy. Nearby, a group of protesters expressed their discontent with Musk’s business ventures, voicing anti-Musk sentiments. Security measures were in place initially, limiting access until 4:20 p.m., a tongue-in-cheek nod to Musk’s humorous connections with cannabis culture.
Despite the vibrant opening environment, Tesla Diner currently does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment option, a departure from Tesla’s typical embrace of digital currencies. Nevertheless, the concept aims to blend dining with entertainment, further embedding Tesla into the lifestyle of its users while potentially reshaping the restaurant industry.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Tesla Diner Opens in Hollywood
- Wikipedia: Tesla, Inc.
- CNBC: Photos from the Tesla Diner Opening
- Google Search: Tesla Diner Hollywood
- KTLA: Tesla Diner Features Giant Movie Screen
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurants
- Fox Business: First Tesla Diner Opens in Hollywood
- Google News: Tesla Diner
