Tesla’s Supercharger Diner in Los Angeles has begun serving patrons as both a charging destination and a neighborhood attraction, signaling an attempt to merge EV infrastructure with classic American leisure. The new site features 80 Supercharger stalls, two movie screens, and a diner that operates around the clock, blending the nostalgia of a retro eatery with modern amenities. Locals and travelers alike can gather for meals or movie screenings, even without owning a Tesla vehicle, expanding the diner’s appeal beyond the EV community.
During its planning stages, the concept of a diner integrated into an EV charging site generated curiosity, especially after Elon Musk’s 2018 remarks about developing a 1950s-style venue. Since then, other charging locations across the U.S. have sought to add amenities, mainly through convenience stores and quick-service outlets rather than full-service diners. Previous coverage highlighted delays in Tesla’s implementation and skepticism over whether such facilities would materialize, but no other automaker has offered a comparably elaborate combination of large-scale charging, dining, and entertainment in one destination.
Amenities Go Beyond Charging
Visitors to the Supercharger Diner are greeted by an extensive food menu, showcasing local partnerships and classic American diner fare. Meals such as the Tesla Burger, Hot Dog made with Snap-o-Razzo beef, and Fried Chicken & Waffles are served alongside all-day breakfast options like egg sandwiches and biscuits with red gravy. The diner’s kitchen highlights ingredients including organic free-range eggs, Brandt Beef, and Tartine bread, targeting customers looking for premium or locally sourced eats. Side dishes, desserts like soft serve and pie à la mode, and specialty drinks such as nitro cold brew and house “charged sodas” round out the culinary offerings.
Is the Diner Open to Non-Tesla Owners?
The Supercharger Diner explicitly welcomes anyone, not just Tesla drivers, to enjoy its services. The communal dining and cinema setup is intended to attract foot traffic from the broader community, making EV charging less exclusive and positioning the diner as both a rest stop and a social venue. This inclusive approach could foster a unique blend of car culture and neighborhood activity, echoing the roadside diners of earlier decades.
What Other Features Are Available to Visitors?
In addition to food and film, the Diner stocks branded merchandise such as the Tesla Bot Action Figure, Retro Diner Tee shirts, Supercharged Gummies, and themed trucker hats. The grand opening was led by Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla’s Chief Designer, underscoring the company’s emphasis on aesthetics and brand personality. Event anticipation led some enthusiasts to wait up to 13 hours for entry, reflecting the brand’s strong following and the venue’s novelty.
The concept implemented in Los Angeles provides insights for the future of public charging infrastructure and the development of destination-oriented amenities. Tesla’s approach stands out for merging lifestyle elements and practical needs at one location, which could influence competitors or inspire other manufacturers to introduce similar models. Consumer response is likely to determine if such integrated charging, dining, and entertainment facilities will become more widespread or remain unique to specific flagship sites. For those planning a stop at a charging hub, knowing that wide-ranging meal options and recreational activities are available can change perceptions of downtime and help shape travel routines around new types of amenities.
