Elon Musk might run several companies and be the world’s richest man, but his daily diet seems relatively normal for someone with his lifestyle.
In a recent interview, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO offered a surprisingly candid glimpse into his eating habits, revealing a preference for classic American fare over exotic or elaborate meals. Despite managing a business empire that spans electric vehicles, space exploration, social media, and brain-computer interfaces, Musk’s culinary choices reflect a straightforward, almost utilitarian approach to food—one that prioritizes simplicity and convenience over gourmet complexity.
A Protein-Heavy Start
When asked about his typical day of eating, Musk described a routine that begins with substance. “These days I start off with a breakfast of steak and eggs and coffee,” he explained. This protein-rich morning meal stands in contrast to the rushed, on-the-go breakfast—or lack thereof—that many executives adopt. The combination of steak and eggs suggests Musk prioritizes sustained energy, though he’s quick to note that his midday eating is minimal. “I usually don’t have lunch. Or if I do, it’s something very small.”
His dinner routine, meanwhile, adapts to his schedule. “Dinner tends to vary depending on whether it’s social or not, will vary in cuisine. I like a wide range of cuisine,” Musk noted, indicating some flexibility in his otherwise structured approach.
The Cheeseburger Confession
When pressed about his favorite food, Musk didn’t hesitate. “American food is my favorite food,” he said. “If I had to say there’s only one thing you can ever have for the rest of time, which really would be a bit monotonous, but it would probably be a cheeseburger. Because cheeseburgers are amazing. It’s a genius invention.”
The billionaire’s enthusiasm for this quintessentially American creation was palpable. He went on to express his appreciation for barbecue and, when circumstances call for it, French cuisine. “If it’s haute cuisine, I like French food, but not every day,” he clarified, suggesting that while he can appreciate culinary sophistication, it’s not his daily preference.
The Broader Picture
Musk’s straightforward diet choices align with a broader pattern among tech leaders who often treat eating as fuel rather than leisure. The sparse lunch, the reliance on familiar foods, and the emphasis on efficiency over indulgence mirror the approach taken by other high-profile entrepreneurs who have famously simplified their daily routines to minimize decision fatigue. Warren Buffet famously ate breakfast at McDonald’s, and Musk fondness for burgers seems to It suggests that even those reshaping industries and pushing humanity toward Mars still find satisfaction in the simple pleasures—like a well-made cheeseburger.