‘Tesla Takedown’ protesters shift focus to Elon Musk’s Tesla Diner in US

The “Tesla Takedown” movement protesters have found a new hotspot, i.e., Elon Musk’s freshly opened 24-hour Tesla Diner in Hollywood, Los Angeles, after organising regular demonstrations outside Tesla showrooms across the US for months.

These protesters have been targeting the Tesla CEO for his political influence and role in government spending cuts linked to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Billed as a retro-inspired, futuristic drive-in experience, the diner features EV charging stations, servers on roller skates, and food served in Cybertruck-themed packaging.

The restaurant officially opened on Monday and has already drawn massive crowds, with one customer posting online about waiting 11 hours just to be among the first served.

Despite the buzz, protest organiser Joel Lava noted that opposition to the venue is ramping up.

“People are waiting 11 hours just to eat Tesla-branded burgers and fries. This is the same Elon Musk known for anti-trans rhetoric, opening a diner in West Hollywood. The community isn’t exactly embracing it,” Lava said.

According to Lava, around 75 people joined the diner protest on Saturday, with more actions likely throughout the summer.

“Our main message is Tesla funds fascism,” he said. “Musk, through DOGE, has undermined government agencies and cost people their jobs; he’s responsible for harm globally.”

While turnout for Tesla Takedown protests peaked in March, Lava noted that the momentum has held steady.