A movie auditorium.
Photography: Courtesy of Alamo Drafthouse
Photography: Courtesy of Alamo Drafthouse

The best dine-in movie theaters in Chicago

No time for dinner before a film? Enjoy them both at a dine-in movie theater around Chicago.

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It's time to elevate your movie-going experience. There's more than just popcorn and candy to snack on at the movies these days and an increasing number of dine-in movie theaters are keeping up with the times. Thanks to appetizers, cocktails and full entrees delivered right to your seat, the cinema experience is only getting better. Check out the menus at these dine-in movie theaters and see why the culinary amenities raise them into the ranks of the best movie theaters in Chicago.

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Best dine-in movie theaters

  • Movie theaters
  • Independent
  • Lincoln Square
  • price 1 of 4

Since its community-led revival in 2016, the Davis Theater has grown as a community favorite as a center for cinema and events. Sojourn, the theater's connected eatery, serves contemporary American fare you can take with you into the theater. Snack on a cauliflower steak or a tuna poke bowl while enjoying your favorite film. Don't skip out on the cocktails either—the Strawberry Basil Smash and Liquid Taco will be calling you back even after movie night. Talk about dinner and a show!

  • Movie theaters
  • Wrigleyville
  • price 2 of 4

Popular Texas theater chain Alamo Drafthouse's first Chicago location arrived in Wrigleyville in 2023. In addition to showing the newest films, the venue offers full-service meals with staff bringing food to customers' seats during screenings. Elevate your go-to movie snack with the truffle herb parmesan popcorn or indulge in a heartier meal like spicy buffalo chicken pizza. There are also movie parties—immersive and interactive viewing experiences featuring fun props, themed drinks and more.

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  • Movie theaters
  • Multiplex
  • Loop

This Chicago location of the AMC multiplex chain, located on the fourth floor of the Block 37 shopping center, offers 11 screens and AMC's full dine-in menu, featuring everything from burgers to loaded bacon tater tot appetizers. Dessert options can make the ending of your viewing experience even sweeter with chocholate hazelnut churros and a bevy of Double Decker shake flavors. You order from a console at your seat, and your freshly prepared food is delivered right to your plush leather recliner.

  • Movie theaters
  • Multiplex
  • Loop
  • price 2 of 4
ShowPlace ICON at Roosevelt Collection
ShowPlace ICON at Roosevelt Collection

A multiplex theater that meets the needs of the casual moviegoer as well as those who want an upgraded cinematic experience, this South Loop spot also boasts a second-floor lounge where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat before the show. If you're looking to splurge, get a VIP ticket and enjoy the latest blockbuster in a cozy balcony seat, where you can enjoy drinks and lounge food while watching the movie.

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  • Movie theaters
  • Multiplex
  • Streeterville
  • price 1 of 4

This nine-screen ’plex just off the Magnificent Mile is equipped with the plush reclining seats you'd find in newer theaters. Order at the concession stand and have your food delivered to your seat. There's also a MacGuffins bar, so you can take your beer, wine or cocktail into the show.

The Northbrook location of AMC Dine-In Theaters offers a full menu, bar options and impressive desserts to remember. While immersing yourself in the cinematic experience, don't forget to dive into the Mega Milkshakes that come in birthday cake, chocolate, s'mores, apple pie and Oreo flavors. As a handheld behemoth of sweetness, it rivals the classic popcorn or slushy as a preferred movie snack.

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This Lakeview cinema is definitely one to put on your Chicago bucket list. The theater offers stadium seating and screening lounges to view independent and foreign language films. Visitors can grab some pre-showing drinks and snacks at The Century Bar or take them into the auditorium once the movie starts. 

8. AMC Dine-in Rosemont 12

Just a brief drive outside the city, movie-goers can enjoy a dine-in experience at the AMC theater in Rosemont. Sip on creative cocktails at MacGuffins Bar, where there are usually drinks inspired by movies shown at the theater and enjoy expanded dine-in food options. Make sure to take advantage of the 25 percent off matinee movie tickets before 4pm every day!

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Located at the Glen Town Center in Glenview, this 10-screen theater boasts new renovations, a full bar and expanded hot food options—including a loaded hot dog—to enjoy during the movie. Be sure to try the vodka-based Raspberry Pillow Talk to spice up date night at the cinema.

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