The Bar for Movie Buffs

© Flickr / Caliper Studios

They say you can’t fight city hall, but don’t tell that to the proprietors of Nitehawk Cinema in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. On Thursday October 27th, Nitehawk became the first New York State movie theater to offer legal alcoholic drinks that moviegoers can bring to their seats. Yes New York, the days of shady brown-bagging are over; we have our first official bar/movie theater.

© Gabrielle Sierra / RumBum.comIn a location that was strangely lacking in movie theater options, Nitehawk is a newly arrived breath of fresh air. Occupying several floors of what looks like loft apartment spaces, Nitehawk holds three theaters with the largest topping out at 92 seats. Outside, the space is lit with patterns of circular LED lights, standing out from the rest of the residential block in a big way.

Aside from the joy of an expanded liquor license, this spot also boasts a street-level neighborhood bar and café, where cocktails and concessions are available without a ticket. The menu isn’t your ordinary theater fare of popcorn and soda (although they do offer both); offerings range from homemade jerky to cheese empanadas, steak kimchi sandwiches and fish tacos. The street-level café is complete with a large bar and several booths and tables, all lit by low orange and blue lights.

Once inside the theater, it's clear that Nitehawk is no run-of-the-mill movie house. Small-shared tables are attached for each pair of seats and come complete with a low light (to read the menu by without detracting from the movie), cup holders, space to eat, and a pad of paper. During the film any food or drink requests can be scribbled down and propped up at your table. Like magic, the waitress comes by, picks up the paper, and brings over your booze or treats. It is an efficient system that will leave you hankering for Milk Duds.

Downfalls? This place is cool, so it gets busy fast and lines form in small spaces. But if you're smart and arrive early you can nurse a drink in the lobby while waiting to get into your movie. Most patrons are friendly and social, so be prepared for some drunken chatting before and after the movie. Regular big box office films run alongside themed B-movies and independent flicks, so it is best to check the schedule before showing up.