I absolutely love this place! I grew up watching movies here and am a proud supporter to this day. It's newly remodeled with renovated bathrooms and added barstool seating. The theater is a staunch supporter of small local businesses, mainly those in Castro Valley. They're also building community in a new and exciting way through their Movie Club, trivia nights, and more. Can't wait to see how this theater grows! read more

I am so glad I found this place. Recently, every time I have been to the theaters, I felt like I have been ripped off, kinda like going to an auto mechanic. At the price we pay these days, the movie better be entertaining, funny, dramatic with outstanding acting, special efforts and much much more. Well Chabot Cinema is a throwback in many ways. It is 1 screen movie theater with prices from the 90s. I went there to Avengers on the opening weekend and it was quite fun. I was lucky to find street parking right next to the theater but not sure if it would have been a pain otherwise. Since it was a big movie, we waited in line for around 30 mts outside the theater to get in. No extra charge for buying online and tickets were just $5! I recommend going to the balcony where you have ridiculous leg room. Very very comfy. The only complaint I had was that something triggered my allergies and it took me a little while to settle in and stop sneezing. Must be dust mites. Anyways, I will still be going back. read more

Still have mixed feelings but fond memories of Chabot. Nothing earth shattering. Their biggest change is they have removed the movie times from the marquee so you are forced to look on their website, their instagram, or in the forum once a week. Also still rolling my eyes at Smalltown's attempt to re brand it to "The Chabot" come on now. The previous staff of indifferent 30 something guys was more friendly than these eager high school kids. I had just finished a purchase and one of them had asked, "Can you please move to the side so I can take the next patron?" with a large arm movement. Like dude calm down. They also have a new vendor for their soda, some bougie soda company based in Oakland made with real cane sugar blah blah blah; skip the root beer it tastes nothing like mug or a&w. I get what they are trying to do, but don't change the soda. The popcorn didn't taste very fresh. Also when I saw the Joker, I could hear the guys talking from the front of the concession area; so please inform the staff not to have loud conversations mid-movie because everyone in the theater will hear it. Although I grew up going here, I really prefer the Historic Piedmont theater to Chabot. *Edit to mention the defensive and somewhat rude response from the owner. Would be great if that laundry list of updates was on this business page. And for what its worth, I attended the Elf fundraiser screening on the 9th so my review is relevant. Oh and why would I walk out of a movie I paid for to tell the staff to keep their voices down in the main lobby? It should be common practice that they realize the logistics of the theater design to not talk loudly during a movie. I'd rather pay more at the Piedmont for a better experience and a more tactful business owner. read more

I liked it better with the previous owner. Has the staff completely changed over too? My first experience at this theater after the change in management wasn't so great. I bought a regular price ticket at $8.50. I also about $15 of concessions and found myself a good seat and sat my butt down. I turned off my phone and was ready to enjoy a good movie. The patrons in front of me kept laughing at inappropriate times, which isn't any part of the theater's fault but it was super annoying. They were an older couple laughing at cultural differences and at the sad moments. But, Castro Valley, right? Anyway, during the movie, there were at least three times when employees made it up the stairs to go to the projector room. Mind you, they were not quiet. One had keys rattling all the way up, two were stomping up and down the stairs. At one point in the middle of the movie, an employee was talking very loudly out front then slammed a door. It wasn't a full theater. There were maybe only around 15 people but you'd think they'd still take care to not disturb patrons from being able to enjoy the movie. While I loved the movie, there were several parts that I missed because of all the disturbances. I am all for supporting local but this experience just ruined it for me. Under the previous management, things were all good. All of the employees were so courteous and mindful of your entire experience. I didn't mind buying tons of concessions and buying tickets for others to support them. Now, not so much. read more

A family friend recently rented out a section of this charming Art Deco theatre for her son's 5th birthday. Every person, child or adult, got a snack box which included M&Ms, popcorn, and soft drink. The mom distributed goodie bags and cupcakes at the end of the movie; we watched _Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2_. The sound system wasn't overwhelmingly loud nor was the trip to the bathroom too far. Stars off for the awkwardness handling my extra food order: I ordered nachos for my daughter and a hot dog. The three employees immediately became flustered. One young woman told me it would be a 20-minute wait after watching her male co-worker literally hammer the hot dog buns against the counter. She explained that the manager would need to go to Safeway to get more buns since those had gone stale. I returned in 20 minutes and the manager had not yet returned. I finally got my hot dog with 15 minutes or less left of the movie from the very red-faced employee. Cute little place. Just don't order a hot dog. read more

Pretty good. There was parking around the corner came here on the first showing and it was 5 dollars. You get the large drink and popcorn and you can get refills that's pretty cool. It wasn't too expensive either. They have a balcony area. Too. All in all pretty cool. Would definitely watch a movie here again. read more

I really like the fact the city of Castro Valley has allowed this theater to remain. It's really old skool, with only one screen and it's simple seating. I'm not even sure it has cup holders. But it's cute, quaint and affordable. My parents often visit this theater because it's close for them, affordable, especially with the senior discount available for them. I'm not really down for the fancy theaters, I just want to see a good movie and be comfortable, but not go broke. The seats are pretty comfortable too and there is plenty of leg room. However, the one main drawback about this theater is the parking. It is few and far between, and mostly street parking or parking in shopping centers across the street. I would return to this theater, it's fun!! :) read more

I love the chabot theatre and the recent changes they made. Don't you dare change the soda vender, that is the best fountain soda I have had. ( responding to a previous post ) Coke and Pepsi are everywhere; good for you! Josh, if you are listening , try a pre sale for some future events targeted to covid support sales. Get creative with online sales to avoid the crowds doing popcorn sales. Castro valley supports its landmark businesses! read more

I love this local movie theater! Great prices and great seats. I do wish the employees would be quieter as we can often hear them during quiet parts of the movie. read more

Perfection in a small theater! I made it a point to drive out here from Pacifica and the drive was worth it my time and money. Everyone should see a movie here at least once in their life. To say anything more would be to take away from the first paragraph. read more

Love their family screenings. If you have younger kids, these are the best. The sound is not as loud and the don't keep it as dark. And you can't beat their matinee price. It's become an affordable afternoon or morning out with the kids. And we love the new couches for date night! So wonderful that we have this movie theatre right here in Castro Valley! read more

Love my local movie theater! Of course, it's not a shiny new theater with reclining seats, but that's fine. They've kept the screen, projector, and sound system up to date so it's still a good movie experience. Prices are much better than any of the chains and the people are always friendly. read more

My wife and I always enjoyed watching a movie at this hometown movie theater, great prices and popcorn. The staff was always nice and there was always a place for my wife's wheelchair when she needed it. They play first rate movies at a reasonable price...love the small, hometown theater over the huge multiplexes. read more

Favorite town movies!! They always have the kid movies or family movies which we love, because that means we can all go together! Plus when there more adult movies it's still a great experience!The price is unbeatable since this is a everyday price!! It only one movie theater so don't expect more if that's the case this is not the place for you! Sign up for the email to get the showtimes and new movie dates plus a free coupon usually for a large drink when u buy a popcorn! read more

This place is a Cinelux theater, which means the tickets are heavily discounted compared to your local Century or AMC. I paid around $6 to watch Suicide Squad with friends. Since it was our first time here, we prepared for the worst. We came extra early to secure seats. But in the end, it actually wasn't that bad of a line. People just trickle in eventually and it fills up around the time of starting. For the lack of wait time, decent seats, great pricing and locality I fully recommend supporting this theater. The only drawback is there is one screen. As a result, they only show one movie at a time for certain periods. Since it's a kid-friendly theater, they tend to choose the more family-friendly movies to show, even if something like Dr. Strange is premiering. They decided to show Trolls instead. read more

I love the prices here. It is very affordable, and the quality of the movie theatre aint that bad either. They have some nice seats and lots of leg room. My complaints are that the movie screen flashes too bright at times. My friend and I were watching Thor a little while ago and we kept on getting blinded by Thor's lightning. Another complaint is the bathroom. It is very dirty, and the sinks seem to have a mind of its own. It just randomly started spitting out water. read more

Just like I'd always rather hit a locally owned coffee house than one of the chains, I try to see movies at the Chabot as often as possible, just to support the idea of local, one-screen theaters. Don't get me wrong, I like the multiplex stadium seating as much as the next movie lover, but the Chabot is the only stand-alone in the area, so I really want it to be successful and not go the way of other single-screen theaters. The sound system is state-of-the-art. The prices can't be beat: Admission Prices MATINEE: Before 6:00 PM Mon - Fri All ages: $ 5.00 Before 4:00 PM Sat/Sun & Holidays All ages: $ 5.00 NON-MATINEE PRICING: Child / Seniors: $ 5.00 Adults: $ 7.00 Terrific Tuesdays: $4.00 All Day - All Shows (unless noted otherwise) Plus, this week, they are doing sing-along Hairspray showings at 8:55 (through 9/6). Fun! There's usually plenty of street parking, but if you're desperate, go across the street and park in the lot behind the Chevron station. Warning: Don't park in the lot right next door -- they tow. Also, if you're going to a late show and park on the street, pay attention to the parking signs -- some stretches along Castro Valley Blvd. limit parking after 9 p.m. read more

I hate going to the movies nowadays. I hate hate having to deal with little teeny boppers who should be at home studying or sleeping instead their running around the place like they own it. I hate that tickets are now up to 10-12 bucks. I hate how a large popcorn, soda and a box of goobers will cost more than some people make in a month in a third world country. But at Chabot Cinema (my favorite theater in the whole entire world) you don't have to deal with any of that. Tickets are only 6 dollars! They have ONE huge screen, big comfy chairs with plenty of leg room. The floor isn't sticky, your seat isn't warm, there is plenty of parking and since it's located on Castro Valley Blvd, there are soo many places to eat after. You should definitely come out and support this local business. It really is the last of it's kind. They only show one movie and it's usually for a few weeks. I actually took my niece here today to see Justin Bieber's Never Say Never 3D. The theater and staff was great as usual and the movie was fantastic. My niece and I LOVED it, we were so moved by the movie. For those who are rolling your eyes, it's not just about the Bieb's its about never giving up on your dreams alright. So DO NOT diss the Bieb's, it's not a fever, it's a way of life. I am a Belieber. read more

It's kind of funny, but I guess I am so used to the larger movie theaters (with smaller viewing rooms) that when I walked into the 1 theater Chabot cinema has, my first thought was, "wow this place is really big!" Seriously, uber small concession area, HUGE theatre. I can't believe I live down the street and have never been here before. That being said, I saw 500 days of summer for $7. Not bad for the best movie ever...! Will definitely return for another cheap flick! read more

I've came to Chabot Cinema since 2004 when I moved to Castro Valley, at least once a month or two. I recently moved to Anaheim, so I wanted to finally leave a well-deserved 5-star review! The price is cheap, which is a lovely start. Terrific Tuesdays are $5.00 for all times and non-Tuesday matinees are $6.00. Regular price is $8.50, which is cheaper than $9.75 here in Anaheim :( The theater is clean, except sometimes after an evening showing of a popular movie that was just released. The seats are well-spaced, horizontally and vertically--I've never had a problem with my line of sight bc of someone in front of me. Nothing to complain about, really. The display is great, audio is fantastic, and temperature is just right. Chabot Cinema does its job so well that I took it for granted. My experiences were always comfortable here. The restroom is fairly clean but there are steps leading down to the restroom, so watch out for it! The staff is wonderful here. They are always so patient and considerate. I've absolutely never had a problem with customer service. Interacting with such a friendly, polite staff when you buy your ticket starts off your cinema experience in such a positive way that I wish more people would appreciate them. Of course, it's not ideal that they can only show one movie at a time, but Castro Valley isn't SF, and most movies just take up space, so I actually like that Chabot Cinema cherry picks the best movies to show. I've had the perfect cinema experience for 12 years and I'm thankful for Chabot Cinema. read more

I really love Chabot Cinema. Any time that a movie I'm interested in seeing comes here, I'm in a seat opening weekend. The theater inside brings me back to my childhood, one expansive theater with the concessions and box office out front. During busy times, you can purchase your ticket at the outside window before entering. On a slower day, you just buy your ticket right at the concession stand and pay for it along with your snacks. Inside the theater I always choose the upper level- with widely spaced rows and more updated seats. The seats down in the front are a bit older and the rows situated closer to one another. The price absolutely can't be beat- matinees tickets (also on weekends) are just $5.50 each. My boyfriend and I both get in for less than the price of one ticket most other places. The concessions are tasty and fresh. If you want to order a hot dog, this often means a 10 minute wait- because the dog is cooked up fresh for you when you order it- rather than spinning frankfurters that have been rolling around for hours. I appreciate the freshness and don't mind the wait at all. It just makes me really happy that a theater like this exists still, and that I can find it right down the street in Castro Valley! read more

Home away from home. Even though I've been frequenting the Chabot pretty much my whole life, only recently have they started the Friday Night Midnight Movie! It's super exciting for all those young kids who have been utterly deprived of fun in such a weaksauce town like CV... but these Midnight ventures aren't just for kids in tight pants and awkward postures... because they show movies for EVERYONE... for instance, last Friday, like... yesterday? My sister and I were fortunate enough to see our all time favorite movie: Pee-Wee's Big Adventure on the big screen and it was amazing. If you want a mini reunion with all your favorite stro-v locals go to the Chabot Cinema, grab a p-corn, sneak in some candy (just kidding!!!) and sip your soda cause it's hard to find such a beauty of a gem in cinema-land these days. read more

I try to give my business to Chabot Cinema - I would hate to see it go and the only way it will stay in business is if it gets business. I'm so clever... Their popcorn is so yummy (not all movie theatre popcorn can say the same) that when I was pregnant with my youngest son I would ask my ex-husband to pick up popcorn for our movie nights at home. Haha There is only one screen, though, and one can only watch the same movie so many times - usually just once for me but I have been known to watch the same movie twice while it's at the theatres if it's really good! If you're in the area, give Chabot Cinema your business and if you're not in the area, it's definitely worth the drive! read more

I truly appreciate this theater because it is not your typical high-maintenance venue (not to be confused with poor cleanliness and upkeep). Also, it's less than 5 minutes from my house... though somehow I still manage to drive rather than walk there. One theater means less selection and flexibility for movie times but it also means a larger theater room and comfortable seating spaces. I've never had to worry about sitting too close or in an inconvenient seat - no one puts their feet next to my head, I never lean back into someone else's lap, and I don't have to worry about which rows rock and which rows have flexible arm rests. The prices are lower than any chain movie theater. A matinee for two tickets, dibs ice cream, and a kids pack totaled $16! Where you can beat those prices?! Note: A kids pack is a small box of popcorn, fun-sized candy, and a small fountain drink all for just $5. The prices are ridiculously low. But you won't find discount tickets for this theater at Costco. The only down side is that the box office doubles as the concession stand... so it usually takes a while to get in as folks purchasing their tickets are also ordering their food and drinks. However, one line means you are still in your first come, first served order for seats inside the theater as well. read more

It has been more than a year since stumbling upon this wonderful gem of a theater and every time I visit, it's always a good time. I enjoy taking my son out here when they have a kid appropriate movie playing because it's always a treat for him and I to go and break away from our weekly routine. It's sad to read the less than stellar reviews of this place because it really does a job well done for what it is. It's a one movie theater that still sells tickets from a box office and offers the basic movie theater concession snacks -- not really more you can ask for. Also, Bevy M's review accurately breaks down the prices for admission. So for two matinee tickets and a kid's pack (popcorn, small drink and candy for $4.75) our movie day is less than $15... money well spent to keep a happy greasy child entertained for two hours. read more

This is a neighborhood gem-- the center of activity in Castro Valley on a Friday night! Quaint cinema house with 1 big screen and 1 concession area that sells both movie tickets and refreshments. Seats on the upper level are more spacious-- though these seats fill in quickly. Otherwise, we usually find good enough seats even on opening night for a popular movie. Best part is the affordable prices! $8 admission, $5.50 matinees-- can't beat that! read more

Timeless Inexpensive Non-crazy movie-watching patrons Friendly staff people I don't go out to catch a flick all that often but it's nice that places like this still exist. I came, saw something, and didn't have to check my bank balance at the end. Good times. read more

Friday night and we can't find the movie playing at the right time anywhere else so we end up at the Chabot. Had I forgotten what a little gem this place is? Most certainly! So glad we happened in for a wonderful evening that started with a very inexpensive admission, smiling, sincere helpful staff at the snack bar/ticket area and a very uncrowded theater. I can remember coming here with my mom as a kid in Castro Valley in the 1960's. This theater has gone through a few hands and many coats of paint and remodeling since then but it still holds up well. At least one of my sons worked here for a stint and it appears the teenage staff is still well trained and enjoys their work. We will certainly make it a point to come back soon. If you want a mellow evening at the movies, this is the place! read more

I really enjoy seeing movies at Chabot. Some people may think that a theater with only one screen is weird but I think it's cute and cozy. They started doing midnight movies on Friday nights, I went and saw Ferris Bueller's Day Off over the summer with a bunch of friends. The Chabot carries some great memories for me. One of which being that I saw Titanic there 7 times with my BFF Valerie B. Chabot Cinema Hints: The seats can be uncomfortable, the floor is sometimes sticky, more often than not you can hear the kids working at the concession stand chatting it up during the movie, the back row of the bottom level has no leg room, park across the street by Lil Ceaser's. read more

Most definitely dig this place when I want to go catch a popular flick without dealing with corporate regular movie theaters. They have a huge one screener! Those are rare. RARE. Anyway, go Tuesday's and you will save a ton of money. Have kids? Kickass place to go. Though they recently had a one night showing of Goonies that sold out for a nonprofit cause, I have not seen that they often do it. I believe they would be much better if they regularly did so. Nice little place in the valley, where there isn't that much else to do. read more

Gotta love the one-screener. Its super old, been around way longer tha anyone I know who's lived in CV for days. It's a wonderful spot for local C. Vallians. It was even better when I didnt pay cause all the employees were my homies. The good ole days of CV high circa 2001. I've been coming here since I was 4, and seen some seriously classic blockbusters before their mainstream release at midnight the night before, including Hannibal, Star Wars (all the new ones), Lord of the Rings (all), Spiderman, X-Men, and so many I cannot remember. I haven't been here in a while, since it's 'renovation' so I can only imagine its even better. I wonder how much a matinee is? They used to be $6.00... read more

Every aspect of the Chabot Theater brings joy to Castro Valley. From the bright marquee welcoming you in to the friendly faces inside to the buttery smell of popcorn to the unbeatable ticket prices, this theater has created such an abundant sense of community for us locals. I've been going to the Chabot since I was little, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to visit our favorite big screen happily and often! read more

They don't have a lot of showings here but if they have a movie you want to watch , I highly recommend you watch it here . This place has a charm to it that the new theaters nowadays just can't replicate . The actual theater room is huge ! During the whole movie I had my legs fully stretched and my legs were no where near the person in front of me . There's literally like 4 to five feet between us . This place is awesome read more

Chabot Theater - Cinema Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I came in here with my two daughters to watch the epic movie. We walked into a small little place right in front of us was concessions where we Bought our movie tickets, popcorn, soda and our candy all in one spot. there wasn't many people, so it was great. The chairs were very comfortable, and the arms would move up or down. you can even recline. It may just have one movie only, but usually it is a good one! read more

I'm still smitten with Chabot Cinema. Came for the 7PM showing on opening night to see The Hunger Games. I showed up at 6:30 and of course there was already a line of 40-50 people. The staff was helpful and ushered everyone in quickly. Since the theatre is large there was plenty of seating. You can't beat the low tix price, convenience of the location and the friendly staff. When a movie comes out that I can't wait for it to come out on DVD I always check to see if this theatre is playing it before going elsewhere. I would prefer to spend my money here rather than a large chain theatre company. read more

First theater I've ever been to that has only 1 screen! It really makes it a different experience. Even though the chairs were a little squeaky, it was still a good movie screening experience. Everyone was particularly respectful of others, and I didn't see a single person using their phone during the movie. Therefore, no distractions, and I was able to enjoy The Martian for the entire 2 hours and 22 minutes. read more

My first time here for a movie and I came for The Avengers midnight showing. I got here almost 2 hrs early and my group had a good spot in line. Unlike other theaters like cinemark, regal, and AMC, this theater allows you enter the movie an hour early to get seats; which was great. However, 3 stars for not informing advance ticket holders that we must present our online print outs at the front counter. The procedure had absolutely delayed us from getting the seats we wanted and our group was ultimately separated. It kind of defeats the purpose of buying advance tickets to save time. If you ever come for a midnight showing for a highly anticipated movie like this one, id highly suggest all online ticket buyers come early to claim your actual tickets at the counter! Or even just buy the tickets at the box office. read more

Parking can be dicey, but there are lots of nearby residential areas to find a space, come early to give yourself enough time. 5 bucks for a matinee, awesome! No breaks on snacks. Seats aren't stadium, leg space is more limited, but for five bucks its all good. Screen is decent size and the sound is good, albeit a little too loud. People seemed surprisingly well behaved here, I didn't see a lot of texting, or hear a lot of talking or disruption. It's an affordable way to take the family to the movies. read more

Had a great time! There was a pop up restaurant so we grabbed dinner and was able to eat in the lounge section of the theater. We were greeted outside of the theater by a very nice person, very friendly. Great "first impression" The theater is clean, patrons and staff all makes up. I saw plenty of hand sanitizer stations. Everyone seemed respectful of each other's space. I brought cash but it's card only. Not a problem I just wasn't sure which they would prefer. So just a heads up to others. I was very happy with our experience. read more

I love this place. You just cant beat the price and it was nice. I came for a 12:30 showing of Hunger Games the weekend it came out. Came just in time and still found seats. The place is filled. Now get this, but 20$ for movie tickets for three, large popcorn and soda, I did have a coupon, from the paper for a free popcorn. But movie tickets are 5$ before six. I'd rather come here than the multiplex. But this place is all old school theater. Comfortable seats. Place is clean. Staff is friendly. The patrons are nice. Just one screen. read more