Kim G.
Yelp
Another gem from the McMenamins chain of family-owned brewpubs & theatres, many masterfully renovated and transformations of historical properties. True to its name, the Bagdad pays homage to a Middle Eastern palace with tiled arches and columns, Moroccan lanterns, carved woodwork and ornate fixtures. The beauty of the theatre adds to the experience.
As with all McMenamins' theatres, the draw is the ability to enjoy a beer on tap, hard cider, movie themed cocktail or wine while watching the movie, plus hot food delivered to your seat (Balcony only for table service.) The choices are classic pub food with quirky names; there are many standouts: Fleetwood Mac & Cheese, Gaucho tacos, Brewmaster's Steak Bites, Dilly Tuna sandwich, Hail Caesar Salad, and of course the truffle fries and tater tots!
No need to meet friends for a drink or dinner before the movie; just meet at the theatre for HH and hang out at the Theatre Pub, the Back Stage Bar or Cigar Bar located on either side of theatre entrance. Just be prepared to text your friends for exact location; we were meeting at Back Stage but I ended up at a table in the Theatre Pub! All good. Servers work hard and are efficient and friendly without being intrusive.
Theatre is old school with just one screen, one movie playing at a time. Seats don't recline but they are big, roomy and comfy. Rows themselves are spacious and in the balcony, there are tables for your food and drinks.
Ticket prices for first run movies are less than the huge cinema chains: $10 per ticket for adults 5 pm and later; $8.50 before 5 pm; $7 for children 12 and under.
While seeing certain movies with special effects are better on huge movie screens, I'm still giving a 5* rating because I am judging the entire experience, the ambiance, quirkiness, and ability to have full bar and good pub food while enjoying a flick. Oh, and the popcorn is awesome - add the nutritional yeast for a delicious flavor enhancement! Trust me on this one!