Tesla is wrapping up work on a flagship venture in Hollywood that blends electric vehicle charging, retro dining, and classic drive-in entertainment. The project, located at 7001 West Santa Monica Boulevard, has been in the pipeline since 2017 and is now close to debuting, though the official launch date remains under wraps, according to Urbanize Los Angeles.
A 1950s-Style Diner Meets Modern Tech
The diner is designed to evoke the charm of mid-century America, complete with rooftop seating, traditional lunch counters, and old-school carhop service. The site features 30 EV charging stations, two drive-in movie screens, and even a rooftop bar, creating an immersive, nostalgic experience for Tesla drivers and curious visitors alike.
Celebrity Chef at the Helm
Tesla tapped well-known Los Angeles chef Eric Greenspan to curate the menu. Greenspan, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef and founder of the now-defunct Foundry on Melrose, has made his mark across the L.A. food scene with multiple restaurants and his ghost kitchen brand, Alt/Grub/Faction. He also created New School American Cheese, which has become a staple in many local dishes.
However, Greenspan seems to be keeping some distance from the project. When asked about his involvement, he told the Los Angeles Times, “I’m not sure there’s that much to talk about.”
Complicated Branding in a Liberal City
The location of the project adds an interesting dynamic. While Hollywood is known for innovation and progressive values, some locals may feel conflicted about openly supporting a brand so closely tied to Elon Musk — especially following his involvement in the Trump administration. Once a symbol of eco-conscious innovation, Tesla now sparks mixed feelings among L.A. residents, as reported by the Times.
A Glimpse at Tesla’s Future Retail Vision
Formerly a Shakey’s Pizza and located along the iconic Route 66, the Hollywood site was chosen for both its symbolic and strategic value. Tesla is using this location as a prototype for upscale “charge-and-dine” stations that could be replicated in other urban centers across the country. If it succeeds, it may revolutionize the way drivers experience downtime while charging their vehicles.
Conclusion: A Bold Experiment in Lifestyle and Infrastructure
Tesla’s Hollywood diner is more than just a restaurant or a charging station — it’s a bold experiment in blending lifestyle, nostalgia, and sustainable infrastructure. While the brand’s evolving identity may impact its reception in Los Angeles, this one-of-a-kind venue could signal the future of experiential retail for EV drivers nationwide. Whether locals embrace it remains to be seen, but the buzz around the project is undeniable.