The Original Mels Diner

1441 Fitzgerald Dr, Pinole, CA 94564, United States
$$$ Diner
(1342 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're searching for a slice of Americana with a warm, welcoming vibe, look no further than The Original Mel's Diner, located at 1441 Fitzgerald Dr, Pinole, CA. This true diner experience feels like stepping back into the glorious 50s, where the atmosphere hums with nostalgia and the smell of hearty comfort food fills the air.

Cuisine Type: The diner serves up a delightful array of classic American diner fare. From mouthwatering burgers to savory sandwiches, every dish is crafted with care and attention to flavor. Notably, the extensive menu includes delicious options like the BBQ Crispy Chicken Melburger—a succulent chicken breast topped with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and crunchy onion rings, drizzled with BBQ sauce, all on their signature bun. At just $19.98, it’s a meal that promises to satisfy.

For a lighter option, try the Veggie Melburger. This vibrant creation is piled high with fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a tangy honey mustard dressing on a whole wheat bun for $15.98. It showcases how classic diner staples can cater to all palates.

No diner would be complete without breakfast served all day, and Mel's has you covered there as well. Enjoy the famous Mels Chili Cheese Dog, bursting with flavor, or indulge in the hearty Chicken Fried Steak that many have raved about, though do keep in mind that consistency appears to be an area where some guests have expressed concern.

Dining Atmosphere: The ambiance at The Original Mel's Diner is both lively and relaxed, reminiscent of classic diners in American pop culture. The decor exudes a nostalgic flair, with checkered floors and retro furnishings that invite you to sit back and stay awhile. Despite its bustling nature—where laughter and conversation echo through the room—most diners report quick seating and attentive service. As one visitor noted, "The staff is very attentive," and another exclaimed, "The server was incredibly accommodating and genial," showcasing the dedication to customer experience.

Customer feedback highlights this commitment. “Fantastic stop,” praises Presciliano Padilla, appreciating the overall family-friendly vibe. While there are occasional mixed reviews about specific menu items, most feel that the staff is eager to make things right, like the glowing report of Uriel, a waiter who went above and beyond to ensure guests' needs were met. This level of service is what turns a meal into a memorable outing.

So, whether you're in the mood for a classic burger, a hearty breakfast, or just a fun dining experience, The Original Mel's Diner stands ready to serve. With its endearing decor and a menu that has something for everyone, it’s a delightful pitstop for locals and travelers alike. Don't miss your chance to experience a piece of diner history that beautifully blends good food with cheerful service!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Has drive-through
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
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Monday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Tuesday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Wednesday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Thursday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Friday

7:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Saturday

7:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Sunday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

1342 Reviews
Kasey Chaney

18 Aug 2025

I order chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy and a house salad with ranch. When i got my order the ranch was so clumpy, and it smelled old. I didnt even bother eating the salad. But the rest of the food was okay. I will only go there if its my last choice. It use to be great. It slowly has gone down hill.

Presciliano Padilla

11 Aug 2025

Fantastic stop, my whole family loved it here. From the food to the service and atmosphere! Can't wait to stop again next time we're down in California.

Naomi Alfaro

28 Jun 2025

This venue is always a fun place for a decent bite. Lots of options on the menu, and breakfast is served all day, so there is something for everyone. The staff is very attentive. It can get busy at times. But we rarely have to wait for a seat.

Sabrina Padilla

20 Jun 2025

The food is delicious. The atmosphere was peaceful & fun... I felt like I set stepped into an episode of Happy Days The server was friendly & helpful.

Global Expat Reviews

17 Jun 2025

One of the best Mel’s I’ve been to ever! The staff from our waiter to the manager “Uriel” was phenomenal! They acknowledged our food concerns , and how we liked it cooked and prepared, and did just that. Uriel deserves a pay rise at best. Good character professionally and just generally. Rock on Mels Pinole!

Booey

10 Jun 2025

Food Service Ambience Food Pretty expected for what they were offering, Nothing they messed up on with the sunny-side up eggs, country potatoes, and ribeye steak. Service Server was incredibly accommodating and genial. She was knowledgeable about the menu, and even had a spare AI steak bottle in her apron pocket! To be honest, I wasn't impressed with the first Mel's I went to on Sunday since they took so long to get me to table and weren't that friendly. I decided to try out the Mel's in Pinole since I was in an exploratory mood since my Los Angeles trip driving there and driving home on Friday and Saturday. At the Pinole location, the employees were quick to find a table for me, answer my questions, and to get my transaction going through. I'll come back if I'm in the area and feeling like eating here again.

Lorenzo I

29 May 2025

This was my first time at Mels! I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised! The menu had so many options. You could choose from burgers to salads or steak. The restaurant is like a 50s diner and the staff were so accommodating. We went on the 4th of july and everyone was in such great spirits. Talking about spirits... THEY EVEN HAVE MICHELADAS! Definitely coming back when we are in the area!

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