Elon Musk's Tesla Diner unveiled: Step inside Hollywood's retro-futuristic charging hub with robots and movies

Dubai: Elon Musk's highly anticipated Tesla Diner in Hollywood, California, has opened its doors, captivating the public with its unique blend of retro aesthetics and futuristic technology. The two-story establishment serves as both a diner and a drive-in charging experience, featuring not only charging stations but also Optimus humanoids serving food and giant screens showcasing movies. A major point of interest for potential customers has been the menu and pricing of its food and beverages.

The Tesla Diner's menu is a tribute to classic 1950s diner staples, updated to cater to contemporary tastes. You'll find smash burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and fried chicken sandwiches, all served with a nostalgic flair. Even the milkshakes come in Cybertruck-themed packaging, adding to the unique experience.

For those seeking plant-based options, the diner offers a vegan burger, vegan chili fries, and oat milk options for shakes. Sides include classic choices like onion rings, tater tots, and house-made coleslaw. The company emphasizes its commitment to quality, stating that the "overwhelming majority of the ingredients sourced for the Tesla Diner are rooted in responsibly sourced, sustainable local products available within a full charge of a Tesla."

The drink menu is straightforward but brand-conscious, with sodas served in reusable Tesla-branded bottles and a rotating selection of limited-edition frozen drinks. Customers can conveniently place their orders directly from their vehicle using the Tesla touchscreen or mobile app.

Regarding prices, the Tesla Diner aims for affordability, particularly by Los Angeles standards. A burger and fries combo comes in under $15, while milkshakes are priced at $5. Vegan alternatives are slightly higher but remain competitive within the market.

Adding to the nostalgic atmosphere, meals are delivered by staff on roller skates, reinforcing the 1950s aesthetic. Tesla's humanoid robot, Optimus, also makes an appearance, handing out popcorn during scheduled demo hours. Guests have multiple dining options: classic retro booths inside, carhop service for those who prefer to stay in their vehicles, or a rooftop seating area.

Orders are efficiently prepared, typically ready within 10 to 12 minutes. The curated movie clips playing on the outdoor screens are approximately 30 minutes long, aligning perfectly with most EV charging sessions. Beyond food, the diner integrates entertainment with trivia games, merch kiosks, and augmented-reality experiences available on-site.

The Hollywood diner signifies a strategic shift for Tesla. The company is transforming charging stations from mere pit stops into engaging destinations. On its opening day, long lines formed down the block, and social media was abuzz with images of the distinctive chrome building, vibrant neon lighting, and skaters delivering Cybertruck-branded trays.

This Hollywood location is just the beginning, as Tesla hints at a potential national expansion of these diner-and-charger hybrids, with possible future sites near Gigafactory Texas and Starbase in South Texas. For now, the Tesla Diner in Los Angeles offers a unique fusion of food, entertainment, and innovation, all anchored by a menu that respects tradition while looking toward the future.