Violet Crown Cinema

Movie theater · Warehouse District

Violet Crown Cinema

Movie theater · Warehouse District

3

434 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701

Photos

Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by Photo courtesy of Violet Crown Cinemas
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null
Violet Crown Cinema by null

Highlights

Violet Crown Cinema is a cozy downtown gem showing indie, documentary, and foreign films with comfy reserved seating and a great bar plus cafe.  

Featured in Eater
Placeholder

434 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Get directions

austin.violetcrown.com
@violetcrown_austin

$$

Information

Static Map

434 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Get directions

+1 737 688 0022
austin.violetcrown.com
@violetcrown_austin

$$

Features

wifi
payment credit card
Tap to pay

Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@afar

"In the heart of the Second Street District, Violet Crown Cinema makes dinner and a movie an experience worth checking out, withfour screens devoted to independent, documentary, andforeign films, great food and cocktails,and super-comfortable seats. Sit at the bar if you must discuss the film afterward (parking's free for four hours!), or stroll throughthe Warehouse District if your legs need some stretching. Great beerandwine selection."

The Best Things to Do in Austin
View Postcard for Violet Crown Cinema
@eater

Alamo Drafthouse Closes For Now Because of Coronavirus Outbreak - Eater Austin

"Violet Crown, which includes a location in downtown Austin, is still open. It reduced its theater capacity by half and emphasized regular sanitization of everything." - Nadia Chaudhury

https://austin.eater.com/2020/3/17/21183328/coronavirus-austin-alamo-drafthouse-closed
View Postcard for Violet Crown Cinema
@eater

The Best Austin Movie Theaters that Serve Food - Eater Austin

"Violet Crown offers indie features, documentaries, foreign films, and limited releases — basically all the stuff usually not available at most mega-chains." - Britt Hayes

https://austin.eater.com/2018/12/10/18132132/best-austin-movie-theater-restaurants
View Postcard for Violet Crown Cinema

Adam Jones

Google
Violet Crown Cinema is an iconic and unique escape in downtown Austin, offering a clean and cozy atmosphere perfect for quality films. The incredibly friendly bartender crafted a solid spicy margarita, adding to the delightful experience. With good parking options and validation, convenience is a plus. While there’s always room for a bit more magic, it’s definitely a must-visit for film enthusiasts.

Joe Bryson

Google
It's an interesting smaller movie house downtown for mostly first run movies. They also in a few other cool cities. Not quite the cinema selection of major chains, which gives it an edge. The bar/restaurant/waiting area is pretty cool, They could be a little better, but it's pretty good. There does seem to be a little "too hip to deal with you" attitude, but they're typical Austin hipsters, so who really notices?

Michael Castillo

Google
Definitely coming back again! Come from San Antonio to see Charli Xcx and Wednesday Japanese Breakfast before concert I have come here to see The Wedding Banquet spent time . This movie theater was interesting smaller theater but it’s good enough for me. Employees were polite and informative where to go. It’s something different compared to your usually bigger theater chain industry like Regals.

Shannon Sierra

Google
Honestly, I never do this, yet I believe people need to know about how bad it is here. Diana Wang was someone I went to previously and I followed her to this new location in private practice. She listened to you and really cared. Something has changed unfortunately with this new organization. You are treated like a piece of meat in this office and if you are uninsured you are charged a lot more money then what they would charge insurance. The office is gorgeous and some of the staff are very friendly, yet, every time I went in I waited for hours even when I was early to appointments!! When I had concerns I was gaslit and made to feel like I was an issue. Even when I had an infection they made me feel like I was an inconvenience to them. Their prices are outrageous and the care is not to help you it is to make as much money as possible off of you. I would not recomend my enemy to go to this place. It is awful. I did see some recent reviews that were very close to the same tone and somehow those are all gone...

c willis

Google
Great downtown movie theater! Seats are comfortable, the staff are friendly and the cocktails are an extra touch! Free 4 hr parking is generous

Carole Panagopoulos

Google
Really love the Violet. Good mix of popular & arty films. Comfy seats. Easy booking. Will refund (also easy). Good popcorn. Still not a complete return to pre-Covid days of restaurant & full bar. Miss this! Of course, the parking.

Laura Duggan, Austin, TX Realtor

Google
My favorite movie theater in town! Small theaters with comfortable seats, great staff, cocktails and lounge, limited kitchen. Great place to see arts movies and the latest releases in a cool environment on a hot day. Order tickets online, park free in garage. Always a treat.

Melissa Nguyen

Google
what a gem of a little theater in the heart of downtown! 4 screens, great sound and bottomless popcorn with nutritional yeast on the counter to add to your liking (yum!) 4-hour validated parking for their garage on San Antonio with direct access from the garage to the cinema. if the $1 service fee online bothers you, you can buy tickets off the tablets in the cinema lobby without the fee. love this theater!
google avatar

Quin T.

Yelp
Violet Crown is the neighborhood gem you never knew about. For the past couple of years I would walk by & make a metal note to check it out. Finally, while surfing movie theaters to watch Nosferatu, VC was an option. I loved several things about the ticketing process. One, the prices are reasonable. Two, the price includes parking in the attached garage for up to 4 hours. Three, all of the theaters allow you to choose a seat and four, no "convenience fees". The theater is small and only shows about a handful of movies, but it is intimate. However, the downside to being small and intimate theater is that if anyone makes a noise, you can hear it and I do not think I would like to see a movie here where kids are in attendance. The staff was very nice and personable and the cocktails were great!
google avatar

Peter H.

Yelp
It's easy to support your local cinema when it delivers like the Violet Crown does. Good cocktails, great vibe. Validated parking!
google avatar

Treacy N.

Yelp
I had a great experience at Violet Crown Cinema! I went to see Gladiator 2, and the service was excellent. I ordered the margarita pizza and the Sister Sara cocktail, both of which were really good! The food and drinks were high quality, and I appreciated the thoughtful menu options. The only thing I wish is that they served food directly in the cinema, as you have to get everything beforehand. Also, reclinable chairs would have been a nice touch for extra comfort. That said, the overall ambiance and experience were still fantastic, and I'll definitely be back for another movie night!
google avatar

Gina C.

Yelp
What a cute local theater!! The vibe is great - front the walk up the stairs, a view over the trees, and a welcoming lobby. The staff was so personable as well. We started with a few beers and queso while we waited for our movie to seat! All was great and ordered a popcorn to enjoy during the film (very good - not too buttery like some). I'd be interested to try the first row as looked like some comfy seats. My only complaint is a few chairs looked like they could use some TLC - but overall can't wait to come again!
google avatar

Christina H.

Yelp
The Violet Crown Cinema tends to get overlooked, as it's tucked away on the strip of West 2nd. This theater has a few screening rooms and offers limited seating, which makes you feel more exclusive and makes the experience feel more personable. Parking - street parking is available, but why stress about parking, when you can park in a garage and get your parking ticket validated (AKA FREE).
google avatar

Kristal O.

Yelp
I sometimes forget this is even here since places like Alamo take a lot of the marketing. Which I'm actually okay now because I LOVE THIS place. It's a very homey feeling if you come and grab a drink before the show. The popcorn is always tasty and service great. There's not a bad seat in the house either!
google avatar

Michelle A.

Yelp
This is a my favorite cinema . Mainly , because Kenny , the manager is so kind and personable everything I go there . I also love how their popcorn is cooked in coconut oil and they use real butter . This is the only cinema I will eat popcorn at while watching the movie . The comfy seats in the first row are my goto:))))

Kyle K.

Yelp
Not a very comfy theatre but very cool vibes and a gives you that at home feel but i do enjoy comfort more like those really nice chairs in most new theaters
google avatar

Cassidy H.

Yelp
I love Violet Crown, it is cozy and smaller and feels very "austin". Thankfully I can walk here from my apartment but I have always loved a classic movie theater vibe and this one hits all the boxes. Their food is really good, I love the popcorn and their servers are quick, kind and attentive.
google avatar

Keerthan D.

Yelp
best movie theater pizza i ever tried. we came for a quick snack but this was awesome. chill place and vibe too

Leslie R.

Yelp
I want to rate you a zero, but I can't, so I give you.. a ONE. Out of most of the snacks, empty containers of drinks for tea, bathroom out of soap and toilets out of order, trash on the floor, and the air conditioning in our theatre was out and staff unhelpful about it. Alamo from now on, veering here was a bad idea.
google avatar

Eric B.

Yelp
2nd time here. Great place to see a movie. Free parking in parking garage attached--4 hrs. Mostly foreign films or directors, which is nice. Great drinks and menu. I go out of my way now to find a movie here. Front row has ottomons for the seats--pretty rad. 5 stars.
google avatar

La M.

Yelp
pros: * their curation of new releases * validated parking in a nicely lit garage * the food menu * the place is clean unlike cinemark/amc theaters * tickets are $7 on tuesdays cons: * literally none! i come here all of the time and I've never had an issue
google avatar

Felisha S.

Yelp
Love this theatre! They validate parking which is nice because it is downtown. The seats are standard but have semi adjustable backs - more comfy than any other standard theatre! Super cozy and not a lot of people can be in the theatre at once. They also do have better food selection vs a traditional theatre with nachos and hot dogs, so you can enjoy a dinner & a movie while you're here! I will say it's a little more pricey & if you get the inside seats of the theatre you have to walk in front of everyone to step out of the movie!
google avatar

Amber R.

Yelp
This was one of the best movie theaters that I have ever been to. We have not been to a movie theater in over two years, and we have a baby. It's beautifully intimate, thematic, and approachable. We ended up seeing Batman, and they had themed food and drinks that we happily had in the lounge with a beautiful view before the film itself. The bartenders even had a friendly competition of giving us the most fun themed drinks for us on the spot because we were so excited. All of them were superb! Their palettes were over the top phenomenal and they're so passionate about their creations. The Vigilante pizza was also amazing. I felt very adventurous trying this as I am not one to mix much of sweet with savory, but every single part of the pizza was extremely decadent. I've been to some of the top places in Los Angeles, and they would not even compare to how good this place was. The staff were so amazingly accommodating. There is this one sweet girl who should be a model with wavy hair, who is over and beyond trying to accommodate us with a full house. She also made sure to offer us a free refill on the popcorn, and even gave us suggestions on where to go as we were just visiting in town. Usually we go to AMC Burbank and the Laemmle's where we live, and this was a wonderful mix between the two. Best of both worlds in my opinion. Over and beyond those worlds. If we lived here, this would be our second home.
google avatar

Paul D.

Yelp
The Violet Crown Cinema is a really cool place to experience films. It is in the heart of Second Street District where before or after the movie you can walk around checking out boutique shops and local eateries. There are a few parking garages nearby where one provides free parking for four hours and can enter on San Antonio Street between 2nd & 3rd Streets. I parked at Austin City Hall garage. We arrived early to our show so we could enjoy lunch at their cafe/bar. The place supports local businesses with food and drink choices. I ordered Grilled Cheese and a local draft beer. There is plenty of seating and even though can take your food with you in the cinema. The lobby bar is a great place to hang out. This is an artsy move theater where today we were seeing '1917'. The theaters are reasonably small but has great comfy chairs that recline. The sound and video are top notch. Once this virus outbreak dissipates will once again return.
google avatar

Gnet A.

Yelp
Violet Crown is a great little theater in downtown not too far from the Willie Nelson statue at Moody. It has a place to order snacks & cocktails, spots to sit at the bar and a longe area. There is a self serve ticket kiosk when you walk in. I was here for a lionsgate screening to see "I still believe" and it was a great movie; very moving. Go see it when it comes out in March. The staff is friendly and social, the establishment looks clean and quaint, and the theaters have cushion chairs that go back a bit which makes it more comfy. the theater I was in is small but I like it because its not a huge packed room. You can park in the garage on san antonio st and they will validate your parking up to 4 hours. We had a cocktail while waiting and tried the Sister Sara. It has a few different ingredients in it but one is ginger beer. It was really good and they add blackberry with the drink. Very yummy. You can take your drink and snacks into the theater as well. Overall experience was great. We had a great time, great drink & seen a great movie. I would definitely recommend this spot. Ill be returning to watch another movie with some snacks and a cocktail.
google avatar

Andrea A.

Yelp
This was my first time at Violet Crown and watched Black Widow. The space was clean and well lit. Loved the vanilla iced coffee and got plenty of snacks. Theater is a lot smaller than an AMC which I enjoyed. $24 - 2 candies, 2 coffees, 2 waters $32 for 2 tickets. Parking validated for Amli on 2nd if you drive

Beth C.

Yelp
The first several minutes of the movie we were trying to watch was interrupted by the confusion w seating and lack of ushers attempting to help remedy the ridiculousness. Nothing was done to fix this and still people ended up sitting in seats they had not purchased. I was so looking forward to this and was super disappointed. P.s. pizza wasn't sliced so we got to eat it like savages
google avatar

Alma P.

Yelp
LOVE this little gem of a theater! I was in town for a conference and wanted to get out of the heat so an AC'd movie sounded like a great plan! The theater is in a super cute neighborhood and the service was BEYOND friendly and helpful. They had themed cocktails and lots of food options. The theater and bathrooms were clean and well kept although perhaps a wee bit dated but it is an independent theater so that can be forgiven. HIGHLY recommend if you're looking for somewhere to catch a show!
google avatar

Zen G.

Yelp
The front row seats are comfy chairs with ottomans. No worries about crooking your neck. The bar serves great drinks and food that you can take into the theater. I highly recommend the rosewater cocktail.

Theodore C.

Yelp
I had never been to this down theatre that had a movie playing that was sold out at Alamo. Thought cool place for a date. It was very intimate, only 3-5 people in the on a Saturday night. Bar was cool and reasonable. Unfortunately the kitchen was closed. Also the film played a good 20 min with 15% of the top of the film missing until I had to get up and tell them. The price was $5 more and parking another $20 unless you find the exact parking lot (not the one in front of the theater) where they can reimburse you. I will be surprised if they stay in business. Too bad. Could be a great movie theater
google avatar

Jorge G.

Yelp
My favorite place in Austin to catch a flick. Violet Crown provides you a boutique style experience to watch a movie, featuring small theaters perfect for the right movie. Although they generally have a small movie selection, if the movie I want to watch is playing at Violet Crown, I definitely prefer it over Alamo Drafthouse. Located in downtown Austin, its a perfect place for a date. They also validate parking which is a nice accommodation. Notably, the food and beer selection is pretty good considering its a Movie Theatre. My favorite plates are the brussel sprouts + pork tapas. Limited seating so buy tix ahead.
google avatar

Eleanor L.

Yelp
Came for the first time for an event! The dining spaces were nice and the staff was nice despite the long line of people. I appreciated the smaller theater rooms since I tend to get anxiety in massive theaters. The seats were comfortable - especially the front row seats! We got pizza (Margherita and Pepperoni - I wished I tried the hot honey one!) that were surprisingly good. The drinks (Trainwreck and Sundance Kid) were not bad either. They have real food items and snacks; a couple mock-tails along with fountain drinks!

Anne W.

Yelp
I don't know why it took me so long to come here, but wow it's my new favorite theater in Austin. I love small theaters & this one goes above & beyond. It's such a clean, bright, intimate facility. I've been very impressed by the food selection (including pastries from local Austin places), great cocktails, validated parking & just an overall cool experience in the heart of downtown.
google avatar

Jacques I.

Yelp
This is a great boutique cinema in downtown Austin. To pass some time until our evening flight home, we decided to watch a movie here, and it was a nice time spent. Violet Crown Cinema has its own style and flair, making it stand out from chain cinemas. Once you enter the cinema, you purchase tickets on a screen right by the door, which was easy to use. Then there's a seating area where you can wait until you're allowed into the theater section, as there's a screen that indicates the countdown until you can enter the theater. When you're allowed inside, you just walk to your theater room, as indicated on the screen or ticket, and no one checks your ticket. I like that it's very independent, as staff was mostly there to help at the refreshment stands. As for refreshment stands, the offerings here were better than the average cinemas. Yes, they have popcorn, but they have actual sustenance that you can get, like sandwiches, salads, hearty appetizers, desserts, etc... They also had a full bar here. You're allowed to take your refreshments to the theater with you, but note that there is no table in the theater room, so may be difficult to eat entrees. Overall, this was a nice, small cinema downtown. If in the area and wanting to see a movie, check out Violet Crown Cinema. They have a handful of trending movies with a range of showtimes.
google avatar

Elizabeth J.

Yelp
Update- they wrote me back and agreed to make this veggie chili option all vegetarian.
google avatar

Saba E.

Yelp
I can't believe I haven't reviewed this place yet! I try to watch a movie here every time I'm in Austin. They have great snacks, concession products, and even drinks if that interests you. My favorite seats are really all of them, but I like to go in for an afternoon movie and book the front row. Their hummus plate is my favorite, and the overall selection of movies usually makes me feel like I've paid for a quality experience. I hear parking is awful, but I usually walk or cab it there. My reason for removiing a star is because I like to be spoiled and would prefer to have my food delivered to me, but it's okay. It's not enough for me to want to not return. I'm pretty loyal.
google avatar

Thanh L.

Yelp
Fancy and cute looking place. They are friendly and helpful. The redrum sangria was pretty and strong. The theater was small and nice. Ticket was $9. They also validate
google avatar

Rob P.

Yelp
Oh man this place is great! I didn't even know we had a luxury cinema in Downtown until someone told me about it. It's so hidden you would never even know it's there, and to me that's part of the appeal. They validate parking which is obviously a must in Downtown. Special shoutout to Cole at the bar for being awesome!
google avatar

veek n.

Yelp
I'm almost embarrassed to admit this was my first visit to Violet Crown. But I'll gladly tell you that it won't be my last. We attended the showing of the 2020 Oscar-nominated Animated Shorts last night and had a great time. The theatre has a full bar as well as an assortment of eats and soft beverages. There isn't table service, so go early enough to grab your goodies and bring them to your seats. We grabbed a bite next door at Numero 28 so did not get to sample the food at VC but the bar drinks were tasty. There are, I think, 4 separate theatres/screens and each viewing room is comfortable and cozy with cush seating - our theatre sat about 30 people. Reserved seating is readily available through the VC website. The thing I liked best about VC was the staff. Everyone was professional, friendly, and sweet. They are happy to be working there and it shows. One of our party had to cancel last minute and VC did not hesitate to give me a rain check for that ticket. Nice touch. VC just has a good vibe and a great location on 2nd street. And in addition to the big commercial hits, they also show good movies that you might not find elsewhere. Go check them out!
google avatar

Luci H.

Yelp
As a diehard Alamo fan, I've always had a special place in my heart for Violet Crown. It feels like a luxury at-home cinema instead of a movie theater. It's a completely different experience and shouldn't be compared to other theaters in town. We arrived about an hour before our movie, so we could enjoy food and drinks at the bar. The food was phenomenal. I had the Chicago dog, which included an all-beef sausage with pickles, tomatoes and peppers. I rarely crave hotdogs, but this one will be a go-to when I'm coming down with the desire. I upgraded my fries to a truffle, parm order and they were delightful. The truffle was aromatic and they weren't too heavy handed on the Parmesan. The upcharge is totally worth it. As for the theater itself, there are no bad seats. The stadium-style seating is staggered in the perfect way that allows the shortest people a full view of the screen. Since the rows are short, you're pretty much in the middle wherever you sit - which is where I wanna be! Pro-tip: try the front row for a great view and a footrest!
google avatar

Cesar O.

Yelp
I went in on a Saturday noon and the movie theater was almost empty which was great for me and my friend. We both enjoyed great drinks from their bar and took them with us to watch our movie. This theater is clean and has a nice Interior design to it. You can also get your parking validated for 4 hours so you don't pay for parking. I will be back for sure to keep watching other movies!

Donetta Q.

Yelp
Very clean,intimate setting with friendly service in a nice environment.Recommend for date nights. Only negative is that the seats do not recline.

Samantha K.

Yelp
Great place to come and pee really nice people :) very comfortable, good vibe. vegan ice cream also !
google avatar

Christa S.

Yelp
This is not your traditional movie theater - meaning it's not like a traditional big name theater. Violet Crown is smaller and has a bit of an upscale flair to it. They offer parking validation for up to 4 hours in the garage, which has easy access to the theater. You'll likely want to arrive early or stay late as there's a comfortable lounge and bar area in the lobby. You'll wait here until seating begins for your movie - an easy way to grab a drink or snack before it starts. I don't think there is a bad seat in the theater - they are small, but the seat space is ample and comfortable. They offer a handful of movies at any given time, so always check the schedule before you plan to go in case there is something you really want to see - and then, be sure to book your seats online so you don't miss out.
google avatar

Melissa A.

Yelp
I walk by Violet Crown Cinema almost every day and have recently noticed a sandwich board outside, notating lunch specials starting at $7. Lunch at a movie theatre? That sounds like dinner at a bowling alley. Intrigued, I finally made it in today and was pleasantly surprised by the quiet, almost library-like ambiance. The theatre is to the left as you walk in, with the kiosk where you pay for your seats. To the right is the bar for ordering lunch and further right, two seating areas with various tables, benches, and stools, well-decorated and nicely lit from the windows facing 2nd street. They were not kidding about the lunch specials starting at $7. In fact, I was not feeling too hungry, so I just got a side salad ($4) but next time I will round it out with a cup of potato soup ($3) or, get a sandwich or calzone ($9) that comes with your choice of soup, salad, or fries. These are very reasonable prices considering the ambiance, quality of the food, and the location. We are in the 2nd street district after all where most places are pricey, and chaotic, with varying levels of food quality. The lunch specials run from 11-3PM, just on the weekdays I think but I am not sure. I wish they would post this information on their website. I had not gone in yet, since I had not found any accomplices fearless enough to go with me and I happened to be feeling fearless enough today. And to think I almost went to Leaf. So The Avocado Lightening was delicious (see photo) and was definitely well-portioned and priced. Basically three handfuls of field greens, half an avocado, diced tomatoes, crushed tortilla chips, some onions, and some jalapenos (just enough for kick, not overwhelming and no seeds). The salad was very lightly dressed and served with more peppercorn ranch on the side. I appreciate that they didn't fully dress it, as it was not necessary with so much avocado, but it was as if the chef was saying, "I understand if you don't want to put a whole 2 ounces of dressing on your salad, but you need at least this much to get the impression I want you to get of the salad." And it was. My first bite was actually really nostalgic and it took me a minute identify it: my grandmother's taco salad. She makes hers with ground beef, iceberg lettuce, olives, Doritos, and Green Goddess dressing. The VC version is obviously a little more high-brow but plays on the powerful trifecta of greens, chips, and dressing just as grandma's version does. It is a shame that there was no need for more of the ranch since it was drinkably-delicious. Next time (ahem, tomorrow, anyone?), I definitely want to try the potato soup that boasts parmesan, prosciutto, cream, and chives, and possibly the PLT sandwich(prosciutto, lettuce, tomatoes). The menu is small and slightly repetitive (potato, avocado, prosciutto, pepperoni, and smoked pork show up in almost all of the menu categories, in slightly different forms) but, if they are combining them and re-combining them in tasty ways at reasonable prices, who cares? And maybe someday, I will actually see a movie here.
google avatar

Susan P.

Yelp
I often attend movies at the Violet Crown that I have never heard of and no one I know has seen. Their curation is so spectacular , the film is almost always excellent, entertaining and thought provoking . The intimidate theatre, great food and bar selections make it a terrific choice. You usually must buy your tickets at home on their website as the theatre is so small, it will likely be sold out.
google avatar

Jordana G.

Yelp
Wow, why have I never been here before? Awesome craft cocktails, particularly the Corpse Bride with genever and plethora of other liqueurs and herbs. Others have commented that the drinks are expensive, but I think they are on par with craft cocktails at other high end bars in downtown ($9-$12). They also offer super sized cocktails to last through the movie LOL. For food, we ordered watermelon salad, Brussel sprouts, and a Mediterranean plate. The sprouts are worth a trip here alone. Crunchy, bitter, sweet, salty, nutty. Mmmmmm. Definitely get the bacon if you eat meat. Watermelon salad is perfect for a hot Austin summer evening, bright flavors, slightly sweet and a tad salty from the cheese. Mediterranean plate was a solid dish of baba ganoush, hummous, falafel and veggies. Great, intimate film experience. Highly recommended.
google avatar

Rob R.

Yelp
Why is everyone so lame? Reading some of these one star reviews gave me a headache. THIS ISNT ALAMO. Just because it's a cinema that you can order food at doesn't make it fucking Alamo. If you can't handle a "smallish" portion of pricey food and a $10 ticket, don't come. Youre on 2nd street in downtown Austin to watch an awesome movie AND they give you free parking. Who else does that downtown? ....Uncomfortable seats? Rude service? I've never had an issue and I've been here a dozen times. Idiots
google avatar

Kevin H.

Yelp
I didn't have the best experience at Violet Crown. Unfortunately my movie experience was tainted as we could hear the sounds from the movie theatre next to us. (Probably didn't help that the film I was watching was a serious drama with very serious scenes)- but you would have thought the movie next to us was another Die Hard movie from what we could hear in our theatre. The plus side is that there is 4 hour parking validation Also bring a jacket! It was very cold
google avatar

George W.

Yelp
I've read all the reviews and scratched my head at some of the comments. First this is a small, 4 screen artsy theater. You aren't likely to find, big blockbuster films here. They specialize in artsy, independent and documentaries. They sell out often, so buying your reserved tickets online, is strongly encouraged! Upon entering you'll see the bar directly ahead, and to the left of the bar, you'll find the snack counter, where you often purchase your tickets, and get your parking stub validated. Across from the snack counter, you'll see a free standing counter and cash register, where you can purchase tickets and get your parking validated, if open. The lobby isn't that large on the left, but if you look to the right of the bar there's a lot more seating. I've always found, everyone in a good mood and helpful. All the employees, are more than anxious to help. You do have to ask, though... I've been attending for years, and love going! Since I've had back surgery, I do sit on the front row in their large chairs with ottomans. If you plan on eating a meal, you should eat in the bar. It would be difficult to juggle multiple items. Give them a try, I'm sure if you've read my review, it's an accurate description of what you'll find. Enjoy!
google avatar

Kyle F.

Yelp
This place is a complete disgrace. My girlfriend and I had a customer service issue at the theatre in August, 2018. In addition, the place is a complete cluster. When you walk in, it's utter chaos. You'd think you were walking into a Pentagon building and not a customer-friendly movie theatre - it's so confusing. As we believe in second chances we decided to give it another shot. Due to a malfunctioning website, we called the theatre to reserve tickets for a 2:15 showing on 12/26/18. The associate we spoke with on the phone informed us that our tickets would be waiting for us at the door upon arrival. Upon arrival at the theatre on 12/26, the theatre made an error and reserved the tickets for the following day, 12/27. As the show was sold out, we weren't able to attend the showing. While mistakes certainly happen, selling movie tickets is their core business, so screw ups are unacceptable. Furthermore, the arrogance and condescending tone in which we were spoken to by the venue's General Manager was rude and inappropriate. When I told him his mistake was unacceptable, he escorted us out of the venue like we were criminals. Hell will freeze over before I step foot in this place again - and if hell ever does freeze over and I choose to do so, there is no guarantee our tickets will actually be reserved.
google avatar

John H.

Yelp
Thanks Andy for being a great help. You're a gentleman. A quaint theater complex with unique films. Cool environment, intimate. Great seating. All reserved. Buy early!
google avatar

kelsey w.

Yelp
This was fun place!! I definitely would have given more stars but our cheese plate was a little sad for the price, the movie theater did not have tables to place your food you got at the lounge or bistro, and the chairs didn't recline (which for 36 week pregnant me, sucked). However the staff was super friendly, the view is very fun and the crowd was respectful during the movie. I loved being able to walk out after the movie and pop into Toy Joy and Lambert's. I DEFINITELY loved that they showed the Peanut Butter Falcon...thank you for that!!! SUCH a cute movie!
google avatar

Alexis B.

Yelp
My favorite Austin theater! Yes, even more than the Drafhouse. Small theaters, great movies, good food, great beer and cocktail options. It's basically heaven for a cinephile like me! And - since this is often a problem in downtown - they validate parking for three hours if you park in the AMLI's parking lot!
google avatar

Valentina P.

Yelp
Disgusted with Violet Crown Cinema. Sicario was an incredible and disturbing movie - it is rated R for good reason. The only thing more unsettling than the movie itself was having to sit next to a four or five year old child throughout the violence and bloodshed of the 8:45pm showing. (Yes, his parents brought him and that's a whole issue in itself.) Why do you not have a policy of not letting young children into rated R movies? @drafthouse does. And then the manager, Tim, says it "isn't your (@violetcrowncinemas) problem" while the bartender adds that "Violet Crown's policy is also to serve alcohol to young kids when the parents want them to, even if we think it's weird." Awesome. (That's sarcastic. NOT cool.) Which was weird and an unnecessary addition to the situation. Truly, WTF. You've lost long-time, loyal customers. Gross.
google avatar

Tim M.

Yelp
Excellent food and drinks; though, the popcorn may be the worst tasting popcorn I have had in my life from any cinema. Fair seating except the front row which is superior. Difficult to eat in the theater as you have to bring your plate in the theater thru very tight isles. I go for the unique excellent movies. I wish Austin's theater was remotely close to their theater in Santa Fe NM. If the seating is not corrected soon, I see the competition putting Violet Crown out of business. No calendar online. e.g. ical No app to show the movie ticket. Improvements are needed in all avenues. Disappointing for a cinema downtown.
google avatar

Matthew N.

Yelp
I really hate to give this place a negative review because the "pros" about the theater really make it sound like a great place: -movie starts on time without previews -reasonably priced theater considering no previews ($13 a ticket) -smaller, intimate theaters -comfortable seats with tray table for meals -bar with reasonably priced drinks (less than $10 for a mixed drink) -varied food menu with traditional move snacks and made to order food items Unfortunately, the set up causes way too many headaches mainly due to the food menu. Unlike iPic or Alamo Drafthouse, you order your food before entering the theater and you pick up the food outside of the theater. We learned the first time we saw a movie here that it takes a good 20+ minutes for food to be prepared. This time, we arrived at 7:10 pm for a 7:30 pm movie and finished ordering at 7:12 pm. The 2 out of 3 items were ready just after 7:30 pm and sat under a heat lamp until 7:42 when the last item was ready. I walked in to the theater for the first time almost 15 minutes after the movie started. And to top it off, since my pizza had been sitting under the heat lamp 10+ minutes, it was only marginally warm by the time I ate it. After I sat down, 5 other parties got up during next 25 minutes of the movie to get their meals. This would not be a huge deal but the buzzers to alert you that food is ready is incredibly loud and distracting. Additionally, if those individuals aren't sitting on the end, everyone in the row has to move their legs so people can get their food (and again when they return). And since there isn't a good place to put the trays when you are done eating, some people get up to remove their trays causing even more of a distraction. The first 45 minutes of any movie is basically musical chairs. The kitchen should not take 30 minutes to prepare meals for a movie. After the first time I visited this theater, I learned to show up early and even 20 minutes early was not enough. I get that the kitchen is a made from scratch kitchen (at least I hope it is) but they need to hire more cooks, prep food ahead of time and learn to multi-task. Or maybe just scratch the kitchen all together and focus on popcorn and other movie snacks.