The Magnolia Theatre is a popular venue for foreign films and art films. Tucked back in an upscale shopping center across from the Chase Bank on McKinney Avenue, the theatre is surrounded by snazzy restaurants that were hopping even on Monday night and is near the parking garage for the West Village. Plenty of seating in the upstairs lobby and the bar gives you a place to chat with friends before going in to the movie.
Tickets cost $8.50 for adults; $6.00 for students, children, seniors. Prices may change, so check before you go or call (214)764-9106.
The Food
In the upstairs lobby, the refreshments area offers the usual movie fare and then some. As my friend exclaimed at the top of the escalator, "It's like a Starbuck's with popcorn!" A variety of coffee drinks, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water are offered. Hebrew National hot dogs, sandwiches, caramel corn, popcorn, and candies round out the food selection. I had already eaten, since I had no idea of the types of food available. I tried a soft pretzel for $3.50. It was huge and tasty.
The Bar
The bar is a cozy place with small button chairs around low tables, art for sale hanging on the walls, and a big screen television. The television was showing a silent film the night I went and I was tempted to watch it and catch a later showing of the movie I came to see.
A wide selection of bottles lined the back of the bar and I suppose I could have ordered just about anything. I ordered a margarita and asked if it could be a frozen margarita. Margaritas there only come on the rocks, but that's no worry--the only thing that can ruin a margarita is cheap tequila. Once the bartender picked up the Cuervo, I knew it would be a good drink. Margaritas are $7, not a bad price, and don't forget to tip the bartender.
The Theatres
Five theatres provide comfortable viewing. Their small size keeps the sound even throughout the room, so there isn't a bad seat. The seats themselves have high backs and nice cushions, not too soft, not too firm.