Well Fed On the Town

Wait, don’t you mean Dinner and a Movie? No, I mean, dinner in the movie theatre. Austin, Texas, is home to this small, unique chain of cinemas, Alamo Drafthouse.

There are a few places where you can get dinner and partway through or near the end of dinner service see a movie that’s been out for awhile, on a small screen, across a cramped dining room. However, Alamo Drafthouse features the brand new releases, along with their own, slightly warped, specialty film events and selections.

The setting: At first it looks like a typical cinema, with typical cinema seats. However you will immediately spot the fact that every other row of seats has been removed and replaced with a high, bench style table. At strategic places along the table tops there are menus, small pencils, and small white pieces of paper.

The entertainment: While the first run movies that are fresh in every other theatre are available for your viewing pleasure, you simply must not overlook the special events at Alamo Drafthouse. Spaghetti Western night, with all you can eat Spaghetti and classic westerns. With Valentine’s Day upcoming, they are featuring a Sleepless in Seattle Valentine’s Feast. What comes on the menu with a Valentine’s Feast? Actually, quite the feast.

On Tuesday afternoons you’ll find them hosting Baby Day, where mom’s or dad’s in search of a movie getaway can feel free to bring along the tot and be in good company.

The menu: Well, with a name like Drafthouse, you’d hope they’d have something on Draft. And you wouldn’t be disappointed. From your typical domestics, to microbrews, to Texas traditions like Shiner Bock and prized imports like Guinness, you will find more than 25 beers on Draft at the Drafthouse, and many more are available in bottles.

The bar is also full service, with a complete choice of mixed and well drinks, along with a decent wine list.

Food offerings are simple and hearty, you don’t want something too complex when you’re going to have to eat it while watching a movie. Primarily it consists of a full selection of appetizers, sandwiches and salads, along with a modest choice of desserts. I can personally recommend their Asian Chicken Salad, their Jalapeno Poppers and just about any sandwich on the menu.

The process: As soon as you’re seated and have gone over the menu, write your selection on one of the sheets of paper and tuck it into the metal strip at the edge of the table that holds it. Drinks will arrive first and food soon after. If you want a refill or the like, just place a new slip of paper in the holder and await service. If you are at the late movie, take care to note last call.

Their fun, quirky events, good foods, full bar and unique place in the market make the Alamo Drafthouse a serious contender for any date night. Oh, and trust me when I say they have the funniest “No talking in the theatre” promos ever.

Always take care to check the special events page too. There’s a very reasonable chance that something which will appeal to you or your S.O. is coming soon. If not though, you can make arrangements with management to host your own special event. Television events and sporting events also make the rounds, with recent notables being the season opener of Lost and the Superbowl.

As much as I love going out to the movies, I will be the first to admit that Alamo Drafthouse has spoiled me. I enjoy my movie more now with a cold pint of Shiner Bock.

Theatre locations and show times can be found at www.drafthouse.com.