Mel's Diner Opens On Lincoln and Olympic Blvd in Santa Monica

Mel's Diner has opened on Olympic and Lincoln. The building began as the Penguin in 1959. In 1990, it became Dr Beauchamp's Western Dental for 20 years, but is now once again a classic American diner.

Denny's and Norms are gone from Lincoln and Colorado for good. But Mel's Diner offers American fare to diners 24 hours a day. At the moment though it's hours are more restricted.

The sign is on the list of Santa Monica's historic places, so no change to the Googie era penguin.

Despite first opening in San Francisco, Mel’s Diner served as background in films and tourist photos over the decades. Mel’s has locations in Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, and West Hollywood already, each open 24 hours.