Cancel

Open app

Search

El Capitan Theatre

4.3 (1k reviews)

El Capitan Theatre Photos

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - El Capitan Theatre

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Zoe C.

What an awesome theatre. It looks so beautiful. First time here to watch a movie. Get here 30 minutes before the show starts so you can experience a real Organ called Mighty Wurlitzer being played live before the movie starts a real treat there are a few Organs left in the USA. They have upstairs and downstairs seating, no matter where you sit it's a nice experience. People, please support this theatre so it will still be here years from now. We lived it so much we will be coming more often, well worth it.

Melody A.

Can I just say El Capitan Theatre is one of the best parts of living in Los Angeles? If you love Disney, El Capitan Theatre is where your favorite movie watching experience will be. I'm not a huge movie-goer, and tend to only go if it's a special movie I really want to see on big screen, or if it's a luxury lounger. El Capitan's old school not so cushy red velvet seats are not the most comfy, but you won't even notice because you're too excited about the fan experience. As Zootopia is literally my favorite movie of all time, it was a no brained to go to the theater for Zootopia 2. And El Capitan's hare pair goodies with the headbands, and the blanket, and the preshow (which I sadly missed but watched on some rando's youtube film) and the streamers all over the floor that made my nonexistent FOMO almost exist, made my heart so excited. The prices are high, but accessible given the experience, and the excitement is higher.

Owl  shown before the movie
Jo C.

I looooove this place for a family night out with my daughter. The theater is so beautiful; the curtain opens slowly before showing the big screen and it always has something special to show the audience before the movie starts and it's usually interactive. We went to see The Hoppers and we got to see some cute animals like an owl , a hedgehog , a porcupine. The popcorn buckets are also really unique. They also decorated the sides of the theater to match the theme of the movie. The seats are very comfortable and cushiony. The staff there are always very warm and friendly. There's also Disney merchandise right next door.

Aimee C.

Came to El Capitan for the premiere of the new Mandalorian & Grogu movie and didn't regret my choice at all. The employees are so kind, truly made us feel like VIPs. The entire theatre was full of decorations, murals, and behind the scenes props from the movie which was such an immersive touch and made us that more excited for this movie. We were greeted by everyone and felt so welcomed. There was a mistake where I was given the wrong size popcorn, I paid for a large and was given a small but I brought it to an employees attention and they gladly helped me resolve it and let me keep the small popcorn anyway. There was an amazing laser show before the movie that played the awesome theme music for the show. The theatre seats themselves are pretty crammed, not the most comfy but understandable as it is a very old theatre. Parking across the street was $3 with validation from the theatre which is a blessing given its smack dab in the middle of Hollywood BLVD where parking can be a challenge, overall, I had the most magical experience and hope to come back soon!

Minnie Mouse Hollywood star in front of the theater
Jennifer N.

What do I come to El Capitan Theater for? For special occasions only with special screenings, fan events, or Premiere. With that being said, unfortunately for a regular movie night, I'll skip this theater due to inconvenience of Traffic and parking, and the tiny uncomfortable low seats with barely any leg room and with a short design of the cup/drink holder on the arm rest of the seat that when people walked into my row, their butt or legs had knocked my drinks off the cup holders spilling the drinks all over... TWICE in one night!! Restrooms are downstairs. (Not sure if they have elevators, didn't go to bother and check) Screen is a little old so don't expect those fancy clear and bright screen from regular theaters. That being said, El Capitan is an Historic iconic spot of Hollywood. If you haven't been, should try it at least once. 4 hours free parking Validation across the street at the Ovation Center, previously known as Hollywood and Highland. A little distance for the weak knees to go from the parking structure to walk through and out of the shopping center than cross the street over the street. It's at the center heart of Hollywood Blvd. So Plan your trip with some extra time so you can do some sight seeing of Hollywood Blvd and shopping.

Lilo & Stitch
Travis T.

I have stood in front of this theatre many times while walking down Hollywood Blvd. I love the neon sign in the front and how the theatre is built into a six-story office building from the 1920's. El Capitan shows and premieres Disney movies and other special events. I finally caught a movie here on a recent trip to Los Angeles. El Capitan is across the street from Dolby Theatre and Grauman's Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Blvd. It is a beautiful venue to see a movie at. El Capitan opened in 1926 by Charles E. Toberman and Sid Grauman. In addition to films, it has showcased live performances. It has also been owned by several people over the years. Disney took stock into El Capitan in the 80's and renovated it. Since then, they have been showing Disney movies and hosting events. "The Rocketeer" was their first premiere. I saw the live action version of "Lilo & Stitch" when I was here. I enjoyed walking around this historic movie palace before my movie. There is a concession stand and a small area to display movie props. The theatre seats about 1,000 people. I found the seats to be nice and comfy. Before the movie started, a Stitch costumed character put on a mini show on the stage. El Capitan has gorgeous architecture with a curtain that opens before the movie begins. They also have a large Wurlitzer theatre organ. They have really done a nice job renovating this place to create a classic theatrical ambiance for moviegoers. I love the movie going experience and had a fun time here. Next door to El Capitan is Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop. It is also a Disney store with all sorts of Disney merchandise. You can exit the theatre through this store after the movie. El Capitan validates parking if you park at the Ovation Parking Structure across the street. It is $3.00 for up to 4 hours. I found this to be a great deal for an area that is tough to find parking.

Marian G.

I had the pleasure of visiting this historic iconic theater. This theater is celebrating 100 years in business! We were enthusiastically greeted. I had tickets for the Devil Wears Prada 2. We got there earlier and took advantage of all the photos opportunity this theater had to offer. The sound system is amazing and all of the old world charm is still intact after all these many years. Fresh popcorn was popping upon entering the theater. The seats are comfy and they do not recline (old world nostalgia). There are three floors to this theater. Restrooms are located on the lower floor, the main floor and balcony. There was a red carpet photo opportunity on the lower level as well. Walking through the glass double doors to the gift shop. Parking is available at the plaza. Be sure to get your parking validating before leaving. This theater is more than just a theater. It's California history!!

Strawberry  Salted caramel
Silvia G.

Upon entry they did security bag check and it felt awkward entering El Capitan theatre . It didn't have a safe feel. Proceeded to find our seats which they should have done, once we entered the establishment. Everyone at the concession stand didn't greet, it lacked feeling welcomed! We ordered our popcorn, nachos & soft drinks. Service was awful! No one helped each other (not even after spilling some of my popcorn on the counter) they all stood their like zombies. Nacho cheese needed more warming up , it was like curd! {Gross! }

Entrance on Hollywood Boulevard along the walk of stars
Jay T.

I had only been to the El Capitan once before many many years ago, and I enjoyed the classic style of the architecture and knew I was gonna come back eventually and decided this was it. I sat in the balcony area on the front row and had a lovely view of the whole theater, really beautiful building with classic designs throughout. Just a experience to visit this place regardless of what show you're seeing. A special theater everybody should check out at least once!

Alyssa A.

Used to come here all the time, but it's been years since I've visited. Finally came back because I had to see Lilo & Stitch here. So glad to see that this theatre hasn't changed and is just as incredible as it was a decade ago. Love that it's still a grand old-fashioned movie theatre, complete with the ornate facade, red velvet curtains, and gorgeous architecture. They usually always have some small show before the movie starts as well as a set-up downstairs with information and props from the movie. If you have time, definitely go next door and explore the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain. They have all kinds of Disney merch, and they have great desserts . It's more than just seeing a movie at El Capitan, it's an experience. Grab yourself some popcorn, and enjoy.

Alejandro F.

This beautifully-restored movie theater is owned by The Walt Disney Company and is where most of their movies premiere. I have visited several times over the years and it's always nice to see what new things they're showing. In that particular evening that I went, they were rolling in a giant skull (the head of Jack Skellington) because they were going to show a special edition of The Nightmare Before Christmas. 10/10. Highly recommended spot to catch a movie.

Kevin C.

The El Capitan Theater still has it! While the theater does mainly cater toward kids, it still has a lot of fun and nostalgia to offer adults as well. The theater is still keeping up, nice consessions, seats, and the theater screen looked great and had awesome sound. My biggest tip is for those that come late to skip the previews, if you do that at this theater you will typically miss out on more as there is usually a preshow event or unique display before the movie.

Theatrical Screening - Hamilton
Anton F.

I enjoy this theater, a place for the whole family, whether seeing a movie or checking out a live performance, it's a fun time. My daughter was casted in The Nutcracker here, we had such a great time. Located in tue heart of Hollywood, there is no street parking, only parking lots. The theater has the old school design with the ticket taker booth out front. There is a concession stand inside and the Ghirardelli Chocolate Store next door that you can access from within the inside. Designated as a Historical Registered Landmark, you can also stroll the Walk of Fame right outside the doors.

See all

1 month ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 2
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 2
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 7
Thanks 4
Love this 9
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

11 months ago

Helpful 10
Thanks 2
Love this 7
Oh no 0
Photo of Li C.
0
11
7

21 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 14
Thanks 4
Love this 16
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

11 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

9 months ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 12
Thanks 6
Love this 10
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Ajay H.
222
551
2033

1 year ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 1

8 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 13
Thanks 6
Love this 8
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 26
Thanks 11
Love this 25
Oh no 0
Photo of K W.
463
30
8

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 6
Thanks 3
Love this 8
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

3 years ago

Helpful 9
Thanks 0
Love this 13
Oh no 1

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 26

El Capitan Theatre Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - El Capitan Theatre

Are tickets available at the theater or I have to buy online?

Depending on the show you are better off buying online. To answer your question yes, you can buy tickets at the venue. The advantage is you save by not having to pay the service fees. The disadvantage is the seats you want may not be available. Or… 

Hi! I have a popcorn question!! Of all the theaters I have been to, I noticed somehow the popcorn here tastes the best, what brand do they use, or do they just make it differently? Thank you!

The popcorn is pretty tasty here

How much are the tickets to see a movie?

Go to their website.

How much is a large popcorn and soda? Also is it more if I want a souvenir popcorn bucket? What's the price difference

$15 for the large popcorn and bottled soda.

We are going in september on a saturday to see the nightmare before christmas does that have a pre show any one know? If so how early should one arrive?

The live stage shows are usually provided during the holidays, so it's likely there will be a live stage show. You only need to be at the theatre doors about 15 or 20 minutes early, since seats are assigned (on your ticket) in one of the balconies… 

Do they have dessignated parking?

https://www.yelp.com/questions/el-capitan-theatre-what-is-the-parking-situation-like-here/G6-vho5dFBULKMgjBpWZNg

Purchased Reserved tickets, which don't include concessions. Do they sell food there or do I have to purchase in advance?

Yep! Hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, sodas, candy, and pretzels.

Which are the best seats?

We feel the middle row seats are best. There has been times when confetti drops from the ceiling and it at times it only goes towards the middle row seats and front of balcony. That has been our experience.… 

Do they have Spanish subtitles?

No, they do not

If I bought tickets for the wrong day, are they able to be switched to the correct date?

I'm not sure. I believe they would be able to switch, if they have the available time slot you want. Disney is very flexible and is always willing to work with you. You can always check their website an FAQs. I'm sure it's happened to other… 

Does the organ player play before every screening? And if there's a preshow, confetti, etc., is that only on weekends?

No we went to see Mary Poppins Returns on a Saturday there was no organ player. Seemed as though they are cutting costs.

How much is popcorn and soda? I know they come with the VIP option but how much are they on their own?

I can't remember the exact price but I do remember thinking that the pricing was surprisingly affordable as theaters go. I can take pictures next time I'm there :)

Best seats in the theatre? Best seats for kids?

Honestly it all comes down preference. But the best seats, in my opinion, would be on the lower level, middle section, and anywhere between the middle of that section to the back.

Is it reserved seating?

Yes, all seats are reserved seats.

If I have a ticket on my phone will they scan if from there or does it have to be printed?

We are able to scan tickets on your phone.

What is the Parking situation like here?

Your best bet is to park in the parking structure across the street which also serves as the parking for the Dolby theater. You can validate at the theater and it is owned by the city of LA. That being said parking is usually cheaper than other… 

Which part is the premium balcony?

The center rows closer to the screen

Is close captioning available?

Not that I've ever seen, but I do know they offer accessible assistance for hearing and vision impairment and the sing a longs usually only have the closed captioning

If you don't buy the VIP tickets can you still get popcorn and a drink? or do those only come with the VIP tickets

Popcorn & drinks are available for purchase at concessions, along with many other refreshments and snacks. The VIP package includes a souvenir bucket for the popcorn and usually offers preferred seating for instance Orchestra Center seating. The… 

View All 22 Questions

Review Highlights - El Capitan Theatre

. And once the show is done (or prior), be sure to go next door to Disney's Soda Fountain and Studio Store

Mentioned in 281 reviews

Read more highlights

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for Cinema 30,078 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Vista Theatre

Vista Theatre

4.6
(844 reviews)
3.0 mi

I'm so glad that classic movie theaters are still around and The Vista Theatre is one of them…read more Owned by Quentin Tarantino, this theatre thrives with current and past motion pictures! I had to see Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" at this theater in Los Feliz. You could pay at the box office or order your tickets on the website. I bought my ticket online and just had my QR code scanned at the theater entrance by an employee with an iPad. Walked into the lobby and joined the line for the concessions stand. There is popcorn, candy, soft drinks and also adult beverages: beer and wine. After getting my popcorn I walked into the huge theater and it was amazing. Egyptian style architecture, a huge closed red curtain that hides the screen and the seats a comfortable with ample leg room. The same employee that scanned my online ticket came to the front of the movie screen and greeted us with a warm hello, introduced the film, told us proper movie etiquette (no filming or taking pictures of the movie and to please take your trash out with you when you leave the theater) and let us know there was 15 minutes of previews including a Bugs Bunny cartoon. So cool! Will definitely come back to watch more movies here!

Many years ago, when I was a Fellow at AFI, the Vista graciously granted permission for me to film…read morea period piece inside and outside the theater. Happy to say, virtually nothing of the classic "Egyptian themed" decor has changed. Karloff's mummy would feel right at home. Tarantino is definitely the right guy to have purchased it. Among other pluses, there's a handprint and signature gallery outside, obviously referencing The Chinese, but with a much hipper roster of honorees. Then, there's the stated mission of screening only film prints. Caught the "Kill Bill Saga" in 70mm and, a few weeks later, the return engagement of P.T. Anderson's "One Battle After Another", this time also in 70. It had originally shown there in Vistavision, the format in which it was shot. Anyway, I live in Atwater Village, so it's just a few minutes away. I plan to return often.

Photos
Inside the theater
Inside the theater
New poster!
New poster!
Pre-amble Q&A w/ the team on "The Perfect Gamble"

See all

Pre-amble Q&A w/ the team on "The Perfect Gamble"
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA

Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA

4.7
(963 reviews)
6.2 mi

If you have a significant other or even just a special person this is a MUST! It's a bit pricey but…read moredefinitely worth it! It's my 3rd time here and i'm still impressed. So much that i had to make a review. We watched the notebook and drank hot chocolate which was included with our ticket (not sure if every ticket has it). It's definitely a vibe but make sure to go based on the weather because although we were next to a fire pit it was a bit chilly. You're allowed to bring a blanket though but we were silly and forgot. The view, the movie and the company (my boyfriend) made this experience a 10/10

This is such a cute date night idea. There's plenty of eateries nearby to grab some dinner before…read more The cinema has some concession items like your regular candy, popcorn, nachos, and they also offer alcoholic beverages. Getting to the theater can be a little confusing, but they do send you instructions before your visit. BE AWARE their email says parking is right across the valet for about $10-$12. Since it was dark, I mistakenly parked at the lot next to the $10 one, and that one was $20 (ouch). Don't make that mistake. When you walk through the valet, there is someone there to tell you where to wait. The doors open about a half hour before your showing. We were a little confused because we weren't sure if someone was going to come down and get us. There was a resident that scanned us up the elevator, and there were plenty of spots to lounge outside of the cinema area. We sat in front of the concession stands, and the valet from downstairs had come up and ask us and the other two couples waiting to move to the seating area closest to the elevators. It wasn't a big deal but I thought it was weird that we had to do that. Our tickets were for the loveseat, which comes with one popcorn per person. We watched LaLa Land (in LaLa Land), which was nice because there's also a view of the buildings in downtown. Seat was comfy, but I wish there were either cup holders on the chairs or perhaps a small table in between seats for your food & drinks. I HIGHLY recommend bringing a blanket. There are other reviews that mention they have heaters, however, this was not the case during our visit. I'm thinking they probably have them for the winter, but there were no heaters present during our visit. It gets rather cold, but it feels okay if you bring a sweater and a small blanket. I loved the concept of the headphones for the movie. They were excellent quality and had great sound. You can adjust it based on your liking. Also, all the seats have a great view of the screen. It's a pricey date, but it's worth it if you're looking for something different.

Photos
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA

See all

The Culver Theater

The Culver Theater

4.3
(79 reviews)
6.2 mi

Really fabulous option for a neighborhood theater in downtown Culver City with decent pricing and…read morevalidated parking in a few of the city lots off of Cardiff and Watseka (the Washington one too but check the website for the specific times). Great concession stand with options. Decor is in the retro Gatsby style is clean and well kept. Staff is super friendly and helpful as well. Sound in the theaters also great. I've also been here for a few screenings which has been a fun way to watch some new movies in advance of them coming out!

I've been here three times in the past couple of months, and I won't be returning. Two issues kept…read morecoming up every visit: 1) Popcorn quality is consistently bad. At a recent showing, I ordered the Culver Combo and the popcorn was almost entirely small, crumbly fragments, the tiny broken bits you'd normally find at the very bottom of the bag. It was basically impossible to eat. I got a refill halfway through, assuming I'd just gotten the ends of a batch, but the replacement scoop from a fresh machine was no better. On top of the texture, the popcorn also just doesn't taste good. it had a slightly burnt taste every single time. 2) About an hour into every movie, it becomes obvious there's no AC or fan running. I wouldn't be surprised if a CO2 monitor showed elevated levels. I've flagged this to staff on all three visits, and each time turning on the AC fixed it immediately, but it's never on by default. Sitting in a hot, stale theater for two hours is genuinely unpleasant, and the difference in air quality the moment you step into the hall is obvious. I really want to like this theater, it's a local business and I'd rather support it than a big chain but I won't be returning unless these issues are addressed/fixed.

Photos
The cast and producer of Nurse Unseen
The cast and producer of Nurse Unseen
Outside
Outside
Outside

See all

Outside
Los Feliz 3

Los Feliz 3

4.0
(364 reviews)
2.8 mi

I love watching movies. And the Los Feliz 3 Theater in Los Feliz, California is the place to see…read morethem! It's such a nostalgic movie theater with a person at the one box office who greets you warmly and is nicely dressed in a vest, the cartoon countdown from 10 minutes to it's time for the show, a classic confessions person taking your food and drink orders to the detailed orientated rugs and fun designed lighting fixtures. The restrooms are clean and modernized. The lighting could be a bit brighter. Inside of the theaters is a fun experience. It's as if we're transported back in time with it's art deco style on the walls, plush and roommy seats that start with many seats in the back then goes to two seater aisles the closer one gets to the screen. The screen it self is hidden behind a plush or velvet curtain until it's time to watch the other movie previews, watch a cartoon about going to the concession booth or the hilarious "Turn Off Your Cellular Phones" Victorian opera style. I caught a matinee which was a great price and the other attendees enjoyed the movie! I love this theater!

As a member of American Cinematheque, I have to start by saying this is my favorite of the three…read moretheaters they typically show screenings in. Everything is always so well organized and it's just the cutest theater. Now the only negative for me is finding parking, but that's always an issue in this busy area of Los Feliz. My usual routine is to check for street parking, then check the tiny lot behind the theater, then I usually end up at the $8 church lot. The flip side positive of this is there are so many food and dessert places around for pre or post-show eats. I like that this theater is a bit more cozy than other locations, but honestly it's a normal size when thinking of it as a straight movie theater. I most recently saw Come See Me in The Good Light (an amazing documentary that will shift your perspective on death & grief) with a spirited Q&A with the producers Tig Notaro, Jessica Hargrave & Ryan White centering around poet Andrea Gibbons. Go watch it on AppleTV! Now I say this to emphasize that there wasn't a bad seat in the house. The movie and the Q&A after had good views & good vibes. The seats at Los Feliz Theater are wide and comfortable faux leather. This was the first time at a smaller non-chain theater I wasn't constantly shifting in my seat, as the seats were just plain comfy here though they don't recline or anything fancy like that. Concessions aren't overpriced, with many thinking the popcorn here is above average. And just $5 for a LARGE! Clean bathrooms. Friendly staff! I really like coming to Los Feliz's Vintage Cinemas and I'll be back for sure.

Photos
Los Feliz 3
Nostalgic theater with a plush and very clean front lobby!
Nostalgic theater with a plush and very clean front lobby!
View from one of the three theaters. Comfortable seats and beautiful drawings on the wall.

See all

View from one of the three theaters. Comfortable seats and beautiful drawings on the wall.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

3.7
(700 reviews)
5.9 mi
$$

It was okay. Chicken tender sandwich wasn't that good. Chicken tenders kept falling out and chicken…read morewasn't seasoned much and it tasted sorta bland even with sauce and other toppings. Also super pricey but wtv I'm feeling bitchy

This is still my favorite movie theater, and I'm keeping my rating at five stars for now, but I'm…read moreconcerned about some of the recent changes. One of the things that made this theater special was the full-service experience. The 80s movie-themed atmosphere, extensive food and drink menu, and attentive servers made it feel like much more than a typical theater. Recently, they've switched to online ordering, and it has really changed the experience. Instead of quickly looking through a menu and placing an order with a server, you can end up spending much of the 30-minute pre-show period staring at your phone. That defeats part of the reason I come here in the first place. I've also noticed that the menu has been scaled back significantly. Some of my favorite items, including the breakfast sandwiches and other offerings, have disappeared. I used to recommend this theater not only because of its movie-loving atmosphere but also because of the quality and variety of the food. I don't come here for standard movie-theater snacks. I come for the great food, good beer and cocktails, nostalgic atmosphere, and overall experience. If the new ownership continues cutting back on what made this place unique, they risk losing loyal regulars. At that point, I might as well go to AMC if I'm just looking for typical movie-theater food. I hope management listens to customer feedback and preserves the qualities that made this theater stand out.

Photos
I love movies
I love movies
Chicken Tenders entree meal
Chicken Tenders entree meal
April 20, 2025 | Sunday | Cool Hallways! | Movie w/friends!

See all

April 20, 2025 | Sunday | Cool Hallways! | Movie w/friends!
IPIC Pasadena

IPIC Pasadena

4.0
(2k reviews)
11.2 mi
$$

Felt like a VIP movie night (with one tiny wrap flaw!)…read more Let me start with a quick parking tip because it's definitely in the fine print: there's "One Garage" literally right next door that offers complimentary 3-hour parking once you get validation from iPic, the only garage to get validated! Sounds amazing... until you show up and it's already full... which was what happened. Our movie started at 6:00 PM, we arrived around 5:20 PM, and the garage was completely closed off -- they weren't letting anyone else in. Luckily, we found parking about 3 minutes away and paid around $5, which honestly wasn't too bad. We came here for the second part of our Valentine's date night and watched Wuthering Heights because hello... Margot Robbie is my favorite girl. I haven't been here in over 15 years and WOW -- I forgot how absolutely beautiful this theater is inside. The lobby is spacious, classy, and honestly feels kind of luxurious. There are pool tables, a full bar area downstairs, and spaces where you can hang out with drinks and good company before your movie. We headed straight into our theater and ordered food from our seats (also... water is complimentary, love that). We were seated in our own little pod -- super intimate with two seats, cozy setup, and yes... a blanket. It truly felt like rich people movie night. Shoutout to our server Jake, who was outstanding from start to finish. Great service, super attentive, and made the experience even better. Food-wise: The Boss Burger ($20.5) was a solid 8.5/10 -- hubby really enjoyed it. Although, there were no pickles or tomatoes in there even though it was in their menu. I ordered the Chicken Caesar Wrap ($17), and I'll be honest... it was the only downside of the night. It was a bit cold and tough, and the tortilla-to-filling ratio was a little off for me. I'd give it a 6/10. If the tortilla was a bit warmer I'd think it'll be able to hold onto the filling a bit better, but that was meh, for me. BUT the fries? Piping hot, crispy, and delicious. And Jake even brought us ranch, BBQ sauce, and extra ketchup without us having to ask twice. Overall, this was my husband's first time here, and it definitely won't be our last. We had such a great experience -- the ambience, service, and overall vibe were top-tier. Can't wait for our next cozy movie night here!

Very disappointed with the customer service at iPic Pasadena. We purchased the front luxury seats…read moreexpecting a premium experience, but the seating arrangement was extremely cramped and uncomfortable. The seats were way too close together, and the person next to us had belongings spread into the shared space, making it very difficult to get in and out of our seats comfortably. Because of how uncomfortable the situation was, we decided to leave during the previews before the movie even started. We politely explained the issue to the manager and asked if we could either move to different seats -- even less expensive ones -- or receive some type of accommodation such as passes for another movie. Unfortunately, the manager refused to help in any way and would not issue a refund, exchange, or even offer courtesy tickets. For a theater that markets itself as a luxury experience and charges premium prices, I expected much better customer service. Other theaters like AMC are usually much more understanding and willing to work with customers when issues arise. Instead, we left feeling frustrated after paying for a movie we never got to watch. Sadly, this experience completely turned us off from coming back.

Photos
IPIC Pasadena
IPIC Pasadena
IPIC Pasadena

See all

El Capitan Theatre - movietheaters - Updated July 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...