Nashville to Welcome Mel’s Drive-In, Iconic Californian Diner, with First Location Outside California

Nashville Welcomes Mel’s Drive-In

Nashville has some exciting news for food lovers. Mel’s Drive-In, a popular American diner, has chosen this vibrant city as its first location outside of California. The new diner will open its doors at 152 Second Ave. N. in May or June of 2025. This spot was previously home to B.B. King’s Blues Club before it closed down due to the pandemic and the unfortunate bombing in 2020.

A Bit of History

Mel’s Drive-In first opened in 1947 and has grown to include seven locations across Los Angeles and San Francisco. The diner gained additional fame when it was featured in the classic 1973 film, American Graffiti. Known for its casual American cuisine, Mel’s offers a wide variety of food including breakfast items, juicy burgers, milkshakes, fresh juices, and smoothies.

New Beginnings for the Weiss Family

Colton Weiss, one of the partners in Mel’s Drive-In and the grandson of the co-founder Mel Weiss, is relocating to Nashville alongside his brother Chasen Weiss at the beginning of the year. This means that two out of five owners will now be based in Nashville, further strengthening their connection to the city.

According to Colton Weiss, the family has had a love for country music for years. They established a residence in Nashville back in 2021 and have been on the lookout for a location on Broadway ever since. “It seemed like every time we found something, someone had taken it,” he mentioned. After a long search, they finally feel like they’ve found the right spot for Mel’s Drive-In.

Perfect Location and Future Plans

Colton expressed that Second Avenue felt like an ideal fit for the diner. “Mel’s being an American diner just fits in such an American city,” he said. He acknowledged the ongoing revitalization efforts of the area and remarked on the exciting atmosphere in Nashville. The north block of Second Avenue reopened this summer, and the area is set to house Mel’s near the bustling Broadway area by the end of this year.

The area where Mel’s will be located, having a rich history, is important to the Weiss family. They aim to pay tribute to the previous occupants, like B.B. King’s, as they set up their new diner. Colton shared that Mel’s Drive-In looks for historic buildings when selecting locations, opting to honor the history rather than erase it.

Nashville’s Recovery and Growth

Nashville is still in the recovery phase from the 2020 bombing on Second Avenue, which caused great damage and impacted many businesses. However, progress has been substantial, and the city is rebuilding. As Second Avenue gradually comes back to life, Mel’s Drive-In intends to contribute positively to the community and the city’s vibrant dining scene.

Not only has Mel’s chosen Nashville for its historic and cultural significance, but the decision also comes amidst various developments in the area. The Metro Council has recently approved short-term rental properties on the same street, with some buildings also up for sale. These changes reflect Nashville’s continuous evolution and attractiveness to new businesses and residents.

Looking Ahead

The Weiss family is enthusiastic about bringing Mel’s Drive-In to Nashville, and they envision the diner becoming a local favorite. They anticipate that the diner will attract both locals and tourists who are looking for a classic American dining experience in an iconic city known for its music and culture.

As Nashville gears up for this exciting new addition, foodies and fans of American diners alike can look forward to enjoying a taste of Mel’s Drive-In, complete with nostalgic vibes and delicious menus. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Mel’s is all set to create a spot where friends and families can gather to enjoy great comfort food.

A Bright Future for Mel’s in Nashville

Overall, Mel’s Drive-In plans to make a significant mark in Nashville’s food landscape. With their commitment to honoring the history of their chosen location and their passion for good food, Nashville is ready to welcome them with open arms. As the city continues to grow and develop, Mel’s will be another piece in Nashville’s rich tapestry of culture, music, and culinary delights.