Tesla is moving forward with its much-anticipated retro-futuristic diner in Los Angeles, an innovative blend of 1950s charm and the electric-car era. According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by Sawyer Merritt, the project has now secured its chef: Eric Greenspan. This diner, designed to combine nostalgic vibes with modern technology, will offer a menu featuring freshly grilled burgers, hand-spun milkshakes, and the unmistakable allure of neon lights.
The Diner’s Vision
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, confirmed the announcement in a comment under the post, sharing excitement about the venture. Musk had previously teased the concept in 2018, describing an old-school drive-in experience with roller skates, rock music, and movie clips shown on outdoor screens. The restaurant’s concept aims to combine the classic drive-in atmosphere with the practical needs of electric vehicle owners, offering entertainment for the duration of a vehicle’s charging session.
Chef Eric Greenspan at the Helm
The project’s chef, Eric Greenspan, is an experienced Los Angeles entrepreneur known for his work in the virtual-restaurant industry and his American cheese brand. He has founded delivery-only restaurant incubators like Alt/Grub/Faction, where he helped create several notable brands. Greenspan’s culinary background includes a focus on innovative takes on American comfort food, such as his famous grilled cheese sandwich at The Foundry on Melrose.
Greenspan’s venture into the Tesla diner project marks a significant departure from his previous work, shifting to a more traditional restaurant setting. His appointment has sparked interest due to his unique blend of culinary experience and entrepreneurial spirit.
The Controversy and Criticism
Despite the excitement surrounding the diner’s development, the project has faced some controversy. Several chefs and restaurateurs have publicly distanced themselves from Tesla, citing concerns over Elon Musk’s political affiliations and actions. Chef Walter Manzke, who owns République in Los Angeles, faced backlash after mentioning the Tesla project, even though he clarified that his comments were not politically motivated.
Despite the controversy, work on the diner’s location on Santa Monica Boulevard is progressing quickly. Tesla’s diner will feature white charging stations and visible furniture, indicating that the restaurant is well on its way to completion.
Behind the Scenes: Zero2One LLC
The diner will be operated by Zero2One LLC, a company recently registered in Delaware and California. The company’s manager, William Chait, has an extensive background in Los Angeles’ restaurant scene, having previously been involved in influential establishments such as République, Bestia, and Otium. Chait’s experience, along with Greenspan’s culinary leadership, aims to make Tesla’s diner a destination for both food lovers and Tesla owners.
Tesla’s diner promises to be a unique experience that blends retro aesthetics with the modern electric vehicle lifestyle. While it may take some time before it officially opens, the project is certainly generating plenty of buzz in the culinary and tech worlds.
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