Delicious Mel’s Drive-In at Universal Studios: Where Were You in ’62?

You better head to Mel’s Drive-In, or the Wolfman gonna get ya!

Cruise back in time to the glory days of George Lucas’ American Graffiti when you pop into Mel’s Drive-In for a burger and milkshake. Part of Hollywood in Universal Studios Florida, this hip little dive has everything you need to fuel a day of fun or a night of joyriding around town. (Although Universal Studios usually closes around 9:00 p.m.)

If you love American Graffiti, classic cars, or just mouth-watering cheeseburgers, then Mel’s Drive-In is the place for you! Can you dig it?

Four Friends, One Night, Endless Cruising

If you haven’t seen American Graffiti, then you have an amazing movie night ahead of you! On the surface, Mel’s Drive-In may seem like a stereotypical quick-service eatery, but in reality, it represents something truly special.

The original Mel’s Drive-In began as a small chain in San Fransisco but eventually saw car-hop joints scattered across the state, cementing itself as an iconic part of 1960s California culture. In 1972, George Lucas picked one of the San Fransisco locales for his up-and-coming summer blockbuster.¹

And for fans of the film, Mel’s is where it all begins.

As the sun sets on the last night of summer vacation, four recent high school grads convene at Mel’s for a last night together. There’s university-bound Steve and his Chevy Impala, nerdy Terry “the Toad” on a wobbly Vespa scooter, and down-to-earth Curt, who’s also scheduled to leave for college in the morning. John Milner, a local drag-racer trying to stay seventeen forever, eventually rounds out the party by rolling up in his bright yellow Ford deuce coupe.

They spend the night cruising around against a backdrop of neon lights, classic cars, and classic tunes. The voice of the disc jockey Wolfman Jack often filters through the radio, giving advice on life, love, and music.

What could have been any old cruise night finds the four friends figuring out their own paths and solidifying their goals for the future. Humourous, nostalgic, and bittersweet, American Graffiti truly tugs at the heartstrings. (Harrison Ford doesn’t hurt either.)

Perhaps the film is so poignant because it’s based in reality. George Lucas said in an interview with The New York Times:

It all happened to me, but I sort of glamorized it. I spent four years of my life cruising the main street of my hometown, Modesto, California. I went through all that stuff…They were all composite characters, based on my life, and on the lives of friends of mine.“²

george lucas on american graffiti

Once you’ve watched American Graffiti (or re-watched it for the hundredth time, like me), you’ll be ready to head to Mel’s Drive-In, where you can immerse yourself in the wonderful summer of ’62.

Burgers, Bops, and Best-in-Show

While you might not see John Milner at the wheel, you will get to see a yellow Ford duece coupe when you dine at Mel’s. There’s also a striking black Chevy and, of course, the iconic white Thunderbird belonging to Curt’s elusive love interest.

These classic cars make awesome photo-ops and are just so much fun! Sure, most folks go to Universal for the rides, but a miniature car show sure is a great bonus! Even if you’re not planning to grab a bite, it’s worth stopping by Mel’s simply to admire these sleek beauties.

If you do decide to pop into Mel’s (and you totally should), you’ll notice favorite “oldies” on the airwaves like “(We’re Gonna) Rock Around the Clock Tonight,” “Maybe Baby,” and “Green Onions” by Booker T. and the M.G.’s.

Checkered tile floors, vinyl booths, neon signs, and jukeboxes at every table really make you feel like you’ve stepped, not just into a George Lucas film, but back into the 50s and 60s, when things were a little simpler, and cars were so much cooler. It’s a nice escape from the go-go-go of the roaring 2020s!

With a tried-and-true Americana menu of burgers, chicken, and soft drinks, even your pickiest eaters will find themselves satisfied and happy to cruise along.

Better Than a Melted Popsicle with the Wolfman

Okay, nothing could actually beat getting sage advice from popsicle-loving Wolfman Jack, but Mel’s Drive-In menu is still pretty great!

There’s a tasty BBQ Brisket Burger – a delicious brisket burger with smoked gouda cheese, topped with a glorious, golden onion ring. When it comes to burgers, it doesn’t get much better than this.

But, if bacon is your thing (I get it!), then you’re in luck! Mel’s specialty is bacon cheeseburgers. You can even opt for a grilled chicken sandwich or crispy chicken tenders if you’re a poultry person. All platters are served with salty fries, but you can really splurge and order chili-cheese fries or onion rings, too!

For folks who want to join in the sock-hop but might be watching what they eat, Mel’s has healthier options, as well. Plant-based burgers, plant-based chicken sandwiches, and grilled chicken salads are all available and still delicious. (If you have further dietary restrictions, just let a staff member know – they try to accommodate as much as possible!)

For dessert (you did save room for it, right?), try an old-fashioned rootbeer float, a slice of apple pie, or a milkshake! It doesn’t get more “American diner” than this! The milkshakes are extra fun because they can be customized with a topping of sprinkles, strawberries, or Oreos. Yum!

With classic American fare and even more classic cars, Mel’s Drive-In is a great nod to American Graffiti and a fantastic quick-service option for your day at Universal Studios Orlando.

Just be careful when you peel out of Mel’s – there’s a cop hiding at Jerry’s Cherries!

---

What do you think of Mel’s Drive-In? And more importantly, who’s your favorite character, and what’s your favorite car from American Graffiti?? Let us know in the comments below!

And keep a lookout for a white ’56 T-bird…

Cover Image

Photo: Unsplash

Recommended Gear for this Adventure

Disclaimer: We earn a commission if you click any of the links above and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.