Nothing is more American than an old, neon-lit diner at the end of a famed highway. Pulling into Mel’s Drive-In after travelling down Route 66, and slipping into one of its cozy red booths. Sliding a quarter into the jukebox to sing along to that perfect Beach Boys tune. The occasion is iconically Californian, belonging to L.A. just as much as beach curls or the swell of the waves.
This nostalgic love for vintage diners persists among Angelenos who enjoy the charm of a pancake breakfast. A double-egg hashbrown plate devoured late at night makes the city what it is. However, certain beloved L.A. stops may be threatened in their old age.
Santa Monica’s Mel’s Drive-In faces potential demolition in hopes of replacing the stop with apartment buildings. The roadside landmark heads to the Santa Monica Landmarks Commission for a hearing to decide the site’s protection status. Preservationists believe the diner is an L.A. staple — a landmark worthy of protection.
Even though some old locations face modern-day impacts, a wave of new L.A. diners opening in the county suggests a craze. Does this signify a newfound love for the retro-styled restaurants?
Max & Helen’s is a cozy diner located at ...