VIDEO: Smoky Kitchen Fire at Mel's Drive-In Brings Lombard to a Standstill

A one-alarm working fire in the kitchen of Mel's Drive-In on Lombard Street sent smoke drifting over the Marina today and briefly shut down the busy corridor as firefighters moved in to knock down the flames.

Crews zeroed in on the restaurant's kitchen area while stunned onlookers watched firefighters work to get the blaze under control.

According to SFFDPIO, the one-alarm working fire started in the flue area of the kitchen at 2165 Lombard St, and firefighters responded to extinguish the blaze. The update was amplified by the city's Department of Emergency Management, with SF Emergency advising people to avoid the area while crews were on scene.

*****Working Fire*****

1 alarm fire at 2165 Lombard St at Mel’s Drive In. Firefighters are on scene working to extinguish a fire that started in the flu area of the kitchen. Lombard St. between Fillmore and Steiner St is closed. Please Avon’s the area. #SFFD pic.twitter.com/sruzovRHLn

— SAN FRANCISCO FIRE DEPARTMENT MEDIA (@SFFDPIO) February 3, 2026

Where it happened

The diner lists 2165 Lombard St as its location, according to Mel's Drive-In. The spot sits along Lombard near Fillmore and Steiner, a stretch that can clog up quickly once a lane closes for emergency response.

Traffic and neighborhood impact

The San Francisco Fire Department advisory stated that Lombard between Fillmore and Steiner was closed while crews operated, forcing drivers and pedestrians into detours and slowing traffic through the Marina. As noted by SFFDPIO, fire units remained on scene to ensure the flames were fully extinguished before reopening the block.

What’s next

Fire investigators are expected to examine the origin of the blaze and assess the extent of the damage once crews wrap up at the site. Officials have not yet released any additional details about injuries or how the incident might affect the business, and say more information will be shared as it becomes available.