Forbes Contributor Reports Busy Attendance at Tesla Diner on Saturday

The Tesla Diner, located in Los Angeles, California, received a review from Forbes contributor Brooke Crothers following his visit on Saturday. Crothers described the diner as busy if not packed at times, indicating steady customer traffic during his observation period.

This assessment comes amid varying reports about the diner's performance since its opening. The Tesla Diner is part of Tesla Inc.'s initiatives to create experiential retail and entertainment spaces, combining a drive-in theater, charging stations, and a retro-style diner. Opened in late 2023, it aims to attract Tesla owners and the public with 1950s-themed architecture and amenities.

Crothers' observations contrast with coverage from certain eatery and automotive blogs that have portrayed the diner as underperforming or failing. These reports have suggested low attendance and operational challenges, though specific details from those sources were not detailed in the review.

The diner's location along the Pacific Coast Highway positions it as a potential tourist draw, but its success depends on factors like foot traffic and integration with Tesla's Supercharger network.

Tesla announced plans for the diner in 2021 as part of broader efforts to enhance customer experiences beyond vehicle sales. Construction began in 2022, with the site featuring two 1950s-style screens for movie viewing, seating for over 300 people, and 32 Supercharger stalls. The project, designed by architect Brandon Johnson, draws inspiration from classic American drive-ins to evoke nostalgia.

The diner's opening faced delays due to permitting and construction issues, finally welcoming visitors in October 2023. It operates daily from 10 a.m. to midnight, serving a menu of burgers, shakes, and other diner fare prepared in an open kitchen. Tesla has not released official attendance figures, leaving public perceptions reliant on visitor accounts and media reports.