It’s 2016 and entertainment options are endless. How will you spend your evening? Binging on Netflix? Streaming Hulu? Maybe a little On Demand or some good old HBO? With so many incredible viewing options it can be hard to motivate yourself to leave the comfort of your home (and sweat pants). Movie theaters everywhere are realizing the importance comfort plays in filling seats and are updating screening rooms to resemble your living room. And what better way to do this than offer reserved seating, reclining chairs, and of course, gourmet dining. The days of stale hot dogs are ending as bougie theaters take their concession stands and restaurants to a new level. Would you like your popcorn with truffle butter or sriracha flakes? Breakfast burger or BLT? Microbrew or Manhattan? Vegan? No problem. Here are three of the most popular San Francisco theaters to enjoy dinner in a movie. The only thing missing is the constant need to check your phone.
Sundance Kabuki Cinema: A hip upscale theater that upon entering feels more like a gastro pub than the place to catch the latest Tarantino flick. Kabuki boasts a high-end concession stand, sit down restaurant and craft bar serving movie themed cocktails. Choose from appetizers like garlic tater tots or the Aloha pizza for your dine-in dinner. Swap out milk duds for the famous Humphrey Slocombe’s Secret Breakfast ice cream (bourbon and cornflake cookies). 1881 Post Street in San Francisco
Reserved Seating: Yes
Table Service: No
Alcohol Served: 21+ over films only
Parking: Yes
Embarcadero Center Cinema: The place to go for foreign, independent and award nominated films. The newly renovated space is equipped with a cinema lounge serving happy hour Monday–Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Their bar features craft beer and a strong selection of wines by the glass. Grab popcorn from the concession stand or for a heartier meal, choose from their extensive “bite” selection with options ranging from curly fries to steak and cilantro empanadas. 1 Embarcadero Center in San Francisco
Reserved Seating: Yes
Table Service: No
Alcohol Served: Wine and Beer only
Parking: Yes
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: The beautifully renovated art deco theater is hoping to become the new neighborhood hangout. Their standalone bar Bear Vs. Bull serves serious cocktails in a hip atmosphere and is a fun place to hang regardless if you’re seeing a flick. Hungry? You won’t find a concession stand so head to your reserved seats where a full food and cocktail menu is waiting. Simply fill out the menu card, place it on your table, and let your server do the rest. Choose from snack options like deviled eggs or fried pickles to larger plates like the pancetta mac & cheese. Just make sure to get your final order in 45 minutes before the closing credits. 2550 Mission Street in San Francisco
Reserved Seating: Yes
Table Service: Yes
Alcohol Served: Yes
Parking: No