Our experience at River Oaks Theatre did not start out so great. We had to reschedule our tickets, did so through a phone call to the theatre a few days prior, then showed up to discover no tickets had been reserved for us at a sold out showing. We were not happy. The ticket agent at the front notified the manager who came to talk to us, get some clarification on what had happened and see what he could do to remedy the situation. He (regretfully we did not get his name) went above and beyond to make us happy. He had seats and a table moved into an available space, provided ticket passes and numerous other compensation for the missed step in ticket rescheduling. We had a wonderful experience watching the movie in comfort with good food and spot on service. We will definitely be returning. Any establishment that provides such high quality service deserves much support! read more

It's always a pleasure supporting small local theatre! I came to the River Oaks location to watch No Other Choice (10/10 film btw) since it was screening on the first week of January. Tickets were on the pricier end especially since it was a Thursday night, but not a big deal. The workers were friendly, and the seats were EXTREMELY comfortable & cushy... I still think about them to this day... I also thought it was nice how movie viewers could order food and the workers would come serve it on a platter! I'm not too familiar with any deals or memberships that the River Oaks Theatre may have compared to its big name competitors, but I highly recommend everyone to experience a film here at least once! Also there is ample parking nearby, but can't speak on it too much since I was dropped off. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I loved the OG River Oaks theater and am happy to patronize the new theater that's taken its place. Service is good. It's a beautiful space. The programming has been solid. I have removed 1 star due to the unfortunate experience I had via their expensive hotdog. This is a warning to everyone here.. the banh mi hotdog tastes like a**. omgagod... it literally tastes like evil. I have never had anything like it, and I've eaten at dozens of Vietnamese restaurants in my life. It's not only the pickled veggies on it that seemed to have marinated in something really awful, but it's the weird smoked? flavor given to the hotdog. I considered sending it back but opted to just make the best of the movie. Do you like the hotdog? If so I'd like you to post an opposing review because I can't imagine someone enjoying it. And since I am here... I get the gratuity is included but the wait staff never came back to clear dishes, and maybe it's because they will only come if you press the button? If that's the case it was not communicated to us, and when the wait staff went by us to serve our neighbors maybe it would be a good practice to check in quickly with other people in the row while they're there? That's it. Will return. Will never order hot dog again. read more

Went to see a star wars movie! Ambiance was great loads of people who loved the theater and the showings. They have some of THE BEST SODA I've ever had I swear it's different from anywhere I've been to. Popcorn was great too free refills!! Parking isn't terrible there's plenty of places all over read more

This is such a great venue. It's retro and well put together to give you such a great movie going experience. You can order from your seat and the service is prompt. The seats were comfortable and I could only wish that there were more places like this read more

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This movie theatre has nice, upscale vibes in comparison to other Houston cinemas. You can order food from your seat, and they have fancy-looking bars in the common areas. The downsides are that the seats are not very comfy and don't recline, and there are few restrooms for the number of theatres on each floor. The restrooms were nice though. The food and snacks are very pricey, but that's to be expected. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Movie theatre - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

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The programming is great. The food is a bit pricey but kind of the norm with this style of theatre. Seats take some getting used to but a big improvement from the pre refurb seats. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Diet Coke and Cold Brew Coffee - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

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First time here at The River Oaks Theatre and it was a wonderful experience! I went during a weekday afternoon to see The Librarians, and if you haven't seen it, I will not publicly shame you. I will, however, highly encourage you to find a way to watch it. Most definitely required watching if you ask me. Enough of my ranting. The River Oaks Theatre has three auditoriums, with one being a Screening Lounge that they use for special screenings and private events. Getting my movie ticket online was easeful. And as stated above, I went in for an afternoon screening (read: matinee) for the cost of 13 dollars. This price is for all shows before 5pm. Highly recommend. Upon my arrival, I was greeted and informed of which auditorium The Librarians would be showing. After finding the screening, I found a comfortable seat and explored the menu while waiting. I ordered a sparkling water and Fried Cheese (12 bucks). For what it was, the fried cheese was yummy. Overall, I enjoyed my time. It was a solo date and screening worth checking out. The restrooms were very clean and that's always a 10/10 in my book. I shall return. read more

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Okay wait. How did I not know about this place?? My friend and I were DESPERATE to see the new Frankenstein in theatres before it hit Netflix and luckily River Oaks was playing it! I was expecting something Regal Edward's-esque but wow, I was blown away. The seats of course are comfy, but something about the venue felt so intimate. Very immersive. Servers were coming around to different people and didn't distract at all from the showing. Was just a total vibe. After looking it up I learned that this place was a historical theatre! And they play cool stuff all the time. While it's a bit of a drive from me I so plan to come back. Really made a great movie that much better. River Oaks, you've won my heart. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Look how pretty - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

Take me out to the movies! It's so art deco... This historic theatre first opened on November 28, 1939 where my favorite time the Hollywood Golden age was in full swing with the Wizard of Oz & Gone with the Wind being released this same year. The theatre maintained some of its classic art deco style but unfortunately due to renovations to bring it up to modern times, some of it was lost. Nonetheless the nostalgic feel of stepping into a theatre mixed of modern and timeless old Hollywood style art deco accentuates the place. Please practice courteous cinema etiquette and be mindful of those around you. Don't take off your shoes, or talk throughout the movie. Ambiance: 5/5 Parking is available across the street at no additional cost in the River Oaks Shopping Center parking garage behind Barnes & Noble. You just have to cross the street. Additional parking is available for pay. I love how they screen a variety of classic cinema, art house and blockbuster films amongst other events. Service:5/5 The theatre is set up like studio movie grill where you push a button to get service. They're really good about getting to you and staying low profile while the movie is going on. The staff is friendly and accommodating. Food:5/5 The menus is by barcode, and there's a variety to choose from. Houston Dog - very flavorful all beef frank, toasted roll, banh mi veggies, sriracha mayo & fries. Espresso Martini- good flavor profile doesn't disappoint. They also have a movie themed cocktails which I haven't gotten a chance to try yet. But if you just want a fountain drink they have that too. Overall, I enjoy coming here after work since it's close but especially because of the history of the theatre and how it has the personal touch of ushers and employees being friendly, attentive and helpful. I enjoy the nostalgia and just thinking of the people that have come through here over the years. Glad that the theatre was restored and revitalized. read more

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I've been here twice to see movies with two of my book clubs. The first time I was in a smaller theatre (to see Babygirl starring Nicole Kidman) and got the mozzarella sticks, which were really good! Service is really fast as well (gratuity already included). The second time I went was to see Psycho, and we were in the large theatre. Service was fast and timely this time as well. This time I got the loaded fries (no meat or chili) and the popcorn chicken. I could've done without the fries, but the popcorn chicken was surprisingly good! This theatre has mostly indie films, but I will definitely stop buy again when I see something interesting showing! read more

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I guess the dinner and movie experience just isn't for me. I found it too distracting. That's a big disappointment for me, as I really wanted to live this new version of a beloved local cinema. Also, when I was there the movie audio was uncomfortably loud. I would know to bring earplugs to a music concert in case needed, but did not expect to need them for a movie. read more

Saw a great movie in a comfortable setting. Had some popcorn and a cold brew coffee with excellent service very pretty nostalgic theater. I'll be back. Update - still love this theater and that some of the movies that are being shown are off the radar to the big theaters - this is the best aspect of this theater to be able to see great movies with lower budgets and therefore less publicity. Bought the monthly pass recently. The only problem with this is that it does not retain your credit card information. Each time you have to enter in a bunch of data typing it on your phone. A pain in the axx. But I guess it is better for security reasons. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I hadn't been to this theater since it reopened. There is free parking in the garage behind the book store. The place is swanky. I didn't order any food or drinks. The prices are sky high. The only seat left for the "Cat Video Fest" was one next to a wheelchair space. The couch-type seats are very comfortable. They each have a small sliding table for menu orders. Folks were hanging out at the bar. The bathroom had sure been upgraded from old times. It's very luxurious. I'll remember to take photos next time. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - We got free popcorn. - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

River Oaks Theatre is one of the iconic landmarks of Houston. Especially in the River Oaks area. There came a time when it almost closed due to Covid, but somehow someone pulled through and kept it alive. Whoever did, they're a real one. I remember going even before Covid for an event. Wong Fu Productions. IYKYK. It's not just a theater space, it can host a multitude of events of all kinds. From stand up, to tours, to even music shows. It's quite a novelty experience. I think what keeps it from being a true 5 star experience is the cinematic portion. It tries to cater to a fun and upscale experience by having waiters. It's studio movie grill/alamo draft house meets imax. From ordering a $20 hot dog to a $16 old fashion plus your $15 movie ticket. Oh, did I mention that it's quite distracting seeing several waiters coming in and out delivering food, holding trays of food and beverages, while you're watching your movie? Oh and one more thing, the seats are cramped just a smidge. While they are comfy, they don't even recline. Sad face. I'd feel too rushed to be eating a burger within an hour while watching a movie at the same time and moving my head from side to side avoiding the waiters to watch my movie. I don't want to spend any more money, especially having spent $15 for a ticket. Look, everyone should at least experience River Oaks Theater at least once. It's a novelty for sure. But would I come back? Most likely not. I'd rather go to AMC and sit in a recliner seat with my feet propped up and a huge screen. Maybe purchase a Groupon for $9 bucks that includes a big ol' bucket of popcorn. read more

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Extremely nostalgic venue. Comfortable seating and great temperature. Outstanding sound system and lovely aesthetics read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Movie theater premiere "UNREAL" - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

Wow, I absolutely love this theater. I had looked up places to watch a particular movie, and this theater popped up. Looking back at its history, it opened in 1939, closed in 2021, then was acquired again and reopened October 2024. I love the look of the theater auditorium like the Wortham Center. The chairs are comfy like soft recliner chairs, yet these don't recline, sadly. The large screen drops down when the movie is about to start. The button to order food was a bit hard to find until I was walking up the aisle and noticed it on other seats. It's located down at the bottom right of the chair. I was used to theaters having it on the table. The food and drink menu had some fancy options and cocktails. The bar is upfront right when you walk in, and they also scanned the ticket there. There's a $10 bottomless popcorn option. I didn't order cause I knew I was eating out after, but next time! The restrooms, single and multiple stall, are renovated so beautifully in art deco wallpaper, flooring and fixtures. I love that they show old and new movies, comedy and music shows. I can't wait to see more here! read more

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I've swung by here twice in the time I've been aware of this place's existence, and both trips were drastically different experiences. The first time was about 20 years ago, back when the theater was still owned by Landmark Theaters and was best known for artsy shows. I guess it still is. We swung by to watch some rerun of a film that had originally come out in the 1980s and was airing again for a 25th anniversary. I couldn't tell you anything about that experience, other than that it was a nice, but dated, theater experience. The popcorn was mediocre and the soda was kind of flat, but as others have said, you come here to support a historic and artsy venue, not for modern aesthetic. My latest trip here was to see the "Cat Video Fest," a 75-minute series of cat videos supporting local animal shelters. The original owners had closed the theater, Star Cinema Grill had taken over, and things had definitely changed. While the theater room itself retained its charm, the seating had been upgraded, with extra seating and those rotating tables for if you wanted food. The menu was considerably expanded, with a variety of options that didn't exist before. I really like what the theater has become, despite one major flaw-- the entire River Oaks Shopping Center has not only become very difficult to park at, but now you have to pay to park no matter where you're at. This basically guarantees that I'm going to be going elsewhere to catch a film unless this is the only place in town showing it, and even then I'm going to second guess my choices. read more

I am a huge cinephile, and I spend a lot of time in movie theaters. The River Oaks Theatre is one of my all time favorites There are only three auditoriums, one large one and two smaller ones downstairs. They show some popular films (blockbusters), but often you can find art house films and other films that don't get as wide of a release but that are often included in the film festival circuits. You can watch foreign films, documentaries, and even some classical films The interior and exterior are gorgeous and inviting. The marquee out front is modern but is reminiscent of theaters of past generations. Even the box office attendants, bartenders, servers, and ushers are in vests, slacks, and bow ties. The bars/concessions are relatively upscale, and there are drinks and foods that are film themed and fun The staff is friendly and helpful. You can order food and drink from your seats or at the bar/concessions This theater actually closed around Covid, and I was so bummed. I am so glad that they reopened and updated the theater, but not without it losing its classic and timeless charm Some tips: There's isn't great parking, and you will most likely have to pay for parking, but that is pretty much to do anything in the River Oaks area. Update: there is free parking in a parking garage across the street from the theater Take a look online to find rare screenings or interactive cult classics like The Room or Rocky Horror Picture Show. Keep in mind, as other movie theaters are using leather recliners and other modern day advances, this is not that experience. Also, you won't purchase tickets at a kiosk in the lobby. You will go up to an actually box office outside the entryway and speak to someone in the box office. This is the classic movie theater experience that may one day be a thing of the past Cheers!! read more

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Came here to watch No Other Choice and loved it! It was comfortable (do wish the legs on the chair would go up) and the food service was fast. I have been here before and loved it. Movie selections are top notch. Got the cheese bites and wings. Wings were really crispy and huge. HUGE! They do give you to go boxes if you need them which I did. Excellent service. read more

We came for a matinee on Saturday afternoon after having a pretty bad experience at another theater in town. Purchasing tickets online was easy. The pay to park situation over there is kind of a bummer but it does make it easier to find a parking spot. The seats were pretty comfortable but would be much better if they reclined. We didn't order food or drinks so I can't speak to that but I did notice that they serve their popcorn in reusable metal buckets which I like. I know that this is an art house theater but I do wish they played more of the current films because this would for sure be my movie theater of choice. read more

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I absolutely love the vibe of the remodeled ROT. From the uniforms of the staff, the background music, the decorative elements - everything adds to the perfect date night experience. I felt like I was stepping back in time, it was just so cool. They do have a menu and a full bar service during the production. They also have bars on two levels. The seats are comfortable fabric cushioned, although they do not recline. They do have little food tables that rotate. Service for the food was perfect, the food was tasty. There is security guard patrol in the parking lot. Everything is well lit. I will be returning! read more

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I was happy to see this theatre back open and even more stoked after seeing its affiliation with Star Cinema Grill. Movie prices were very reasonable for the area. The theatre renovations were beautiful while still maintaining the classic charm. Although there have been renovations, there is still some work that needs to be done. The ceiling appeared to have some water damage, which gave the theatre an unpleasant, moldy smell. The theatre could also use a deep cleaning. The new seats do not recline, but they are pretty comfortable. It was very easy to order food and drinks. I ordered the double cheeseburger and fries, along with the ice cream sandwich. Everything came out hot and fresh. The burger was juicy and well-seasoned, and the fries were crispy. The ice cream sandwich was the true star of the show--perfectly delicious. I'm not sure what flavor the cookie was, but it had a nice buttery taste with chocolate drizzle, a caramel coating, and vanilla ice cream in between. There was also caramel-covered popcorn to accompany the sandwich. Can't wait to give updates about other dishes. read more

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Congratulations on the reopening of this historic cinema. Parking is available around the complex, and you will need to scan the QR code for LAZ parking. It was reasonably priced at under $5 for 3 hrs for a Saturday night. The box office will scan your mobile tickets to enter. You are welcomed by a full bar to your left. The theatre downstairs has been fully renovated each having their own table. The only downside is the chairs do not recline, and the tables are slightly narrow for those blessed with big butts. Servers are great, but they should be mindful their voices carry as they congregate in the back which can be a little annoying. Other than that, this iconic movie theatre is very much welcomed back for the community. Looking forward to returning. read more

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Great historic venue with competitive ticket prices. We went to a matinee on a Friday afternoon to see "The Phoenician Scheme". It was slightly confusing bc there was no one at the box office, but once we went inside and inquired were told we could purchase tickets at the bar to the left. Seats are comfortable although there were leftover popcorn stuck in between seats from who knows when. Will continue going though since the location's very convenient to us. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

River Oaks Theater is now open after the remodeling! It looks very elegant inside. I love the retro atmosphere from the iconic sign out front, to the grandiose curtains in the theater itself. The seats are comfortable and spacious as well. A little bummed the seats didn't recline but not a huge deal breaker. I didn't try the food since I went right after brunch but I did get a chance to try their drink including the house cabernet wine and old fashion and both were pretty good. I watched the movie Sinners here and really enjoyed myself! The staff were very attentive and helpful. Ticket price on a Sunday was ~ $12 which was pretty decent. I hadn't been to the movies in a while so this was a nice treat on a Sunday afternoon. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

I was so happy to hear that the River Oaks theater was saved! The best way I can describe it is IPIC but make it eado/pre-cali takeover Austin. The interior gives retro velvety vibes with a nice bar upstairs. The seating has been reduced to allow for more comfortable recliner minus the reclining seats. There is also food and drink service provided to your seat via server. My friend got the ice cream sandwich dessert which was quite nice. We didn't try anything else as we went to dinner before, but the options seemed more upscale. I look forward to trying dinner options in the future. The server was also super sweet and helpful. She definitely seemed happy to be there which is always nice. The movie selection and times are limited so plan ahead and grab your tickets early. Ticket prices were also quite fair. Overall 10/10 if you want a little different vibe to your movie night. read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

Not sure why I had never been here before! It is such a cute theatre and I would totally go back. The seats are comfy, but oh if they had individual recliner couch seats that would be even better! I randomly decided to go here one night because I wanted to watch the new Downton Abbey movie, so I took myself on a solo date. The guy at the window was super sweet and very helpful as I had no idea where in the theatre I should sit. His recommendation was perfect! I was starving so I did order food. I got the chicken sliders and the fried cheese (Mozzarella sticks, which were so delicious and had the perfect crunch!!) read more

A hidden gem. Vintage charm meets modern chique at the River Oaks movie theatre. It offers most movie showings in cozy screening rooms. The bottom and top floors have a wonderful bar that you can stop at before the showing. I'm seriously considering the monthly membership! read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Big screens with stage, monthly membership details - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

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They don't honor their membership, they will swap your casa amigos for Jose Cuervo and act like it's nothing; their staff are a bunch of empty heads; their app/website never work; their 2nd story theater to the right quite literally stinks of mildew; their food is always old,stale and disgusting. Some guy almost threw up from their food during our movie. Buyer beware, read more

Wow I absolutely LOVE this place! It makes going to the movies feel like so much more of an ~event and really escalates the experience. The interior is beautiful, and it has a nice bar area both upstairs and downstairs as well. The downstairs movie theatre is very large and the space is beautiful! They offer a large menu and drinks to choose from, and the popcorn is bottomless for ten dollars! I think the prices are fair as well and not too much more than what you would pay for another movie theatre. Highly recommend this place! read more

The River Oaks Theatre - Outside - Cinema Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I am happy to see this historical landmark back in service. I am also pleased with the movie selection. The service? No. I asked politely three times for a refill on my soda and I was ignored. I asked for a refill on my popcorn and was served cold, stale food. The most serious issue, I was not served my bill at the end of the night. I can only assume to try and get a walked ticked gratuity out of me. Bad service and stale food is one thing. Not presenting me with a bill, making me waste my time hunting down a manager, and doing the server's job for them, is quite another. While I will vist for the movies, I will make sure to eat beforehand. read more

Came in on a Sunday night to watch Superman, was only able to get a front row seat but still loved the experience! Each chair is larger than your typical movie theatre and much more plush with a tray attached to put your food in it. Waiters come to you and take your order before and during the movie. Ordered the crab cakes, the chef salad and the torta au chocolate and all 3 were fantastic. I do wish there was more variety in movie showing but can't wait to come back! read more

The ticket prices are comparable to a regular movie theater so that's nice! I went to watch wicked which was in the smaller upstairs theatre. The seats were comfortable and I was seated in row B which I was nervous would be too close to the screen but it was actually perfect! I ordered popcorn and a soda to my seat while some of my friends ordered burgers and fries. Staff was nice. The restrooms are located on the bottom floor and were small but well kept. I came on a Saturday mid afternoon and wasn't packed. Would definitely go again! The parking spots surrounding the theatre are pay to park. read more

Our family of 4 recently came here for a late night showing of Superman. The theater is so classic and beautifully maintained which really added to the movie going experience. The seats were spacious and overall comfortable. The food is the one thing that needs some improvement. Several of the hot items we ordered were cold (tacos) and the pretzel bites were served both cold and inedibly hard. The service was attentive overall and besides the food, we don't have any other complaints. We would absolutely visit again in the future, purely for the ambiance, but maybe just stick to the popcorn and a soda. read more

Super cute theatre! Had the original theatre ambiance and comfy chairs. Only thing is that they don't recline. They have 2 bars (one on the first floor and one on the second). Drinks were pretty good. They have a food menu, but I only got popcorn & it was pretty good! Would definitely go again! read more

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I absolutely love this historic theater. The chairs are super comfortable, but the only thing is they do not recline. I love the service and being able to order food and drinks with a waitress/waiter that brings your items to your seat! I tried the ice cream cookie which was delicious. I also love how they show more indie films read more

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River Oaks has great programming, which is highly unusual in Houston, essentially a movie desert. Unfortunately, the main theatre is a disaster. Because food is served, servers scurrying in and out of the theatre block the screen for the first 25 minutes of the movie and periodically adterward. If you're near the back of the theatre you can hear lobby noise (music and people). Ruins the experience. The upstairs theatres are much smaller and don't have the visual distractions, but you can still hear the lobby music. It was annoying to hear "Holly Jolly Christmas" while watching "Hamnet". read more

I've been an avid supporter of The River Oaks Theatre for many years, since my university days. I remember seeing The Piano here when it was first released. The last film I watched before the theatre shut down and management changed was a Toni Morrison documentary. Although it took a few years to be relaunched, I am so grateful The River Oaks Theatre is back. Although I prefer the old iteration, which was less formal and never had dinner tables, I do appreciate the current iteration. My first film screening at the new revitalized theatre was a showing of the powerful, important documentary "No Other Land" (2024). And my second screening here is the Tamara de Lempicka documentary. Programming-wise, it's really cool to see the '70: Japanese cult classic "House/Hausu" on the schedule. Hopefully, the programming will get even better as time goes by. If you're looking for a unique film experience, I would recommend The River Oaks Theatre. read more

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Comfy seats with tasty food in iconic Houston landmark theatre. Wait staff excellent. Upgrade to sound system pending.