Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas

Address: Multiple Locations

Why it’s a spot: At this point cities around the country are lucky enough to have their own Alamo Drafthouse, and some have similar theaters, while even being theaters have adopting a model, but this weird niche cinema chain founded in Austin was the first of it’s kind when it opened. The idea of getting a full meal let alone an alcoholic beverage while you enjoyed everything from the newest blockbuster, to a small indie movie, to special screenings of classic or hard to find movies was seriously unheard of.

To that point, we get it— why come to Austin, just to sit in a movie theater? Alamo Drafthouse is a spot not just because it’s cool, but because of it’s a unique programming. Check out what’s playing when you visit town. It could be a cool retrospective or a classic; a movie party (like the famous ones for The Room and Rocky Horror Picture Show); Master Pancake; or take a risk on a movie you probably never heard of with awesome series like Terror Tuesday or Weird Wednesday.

You’ve got to try: The Drafthouse constantly has a revolving movie-themed specials menu that coincide with their programming that month, but beyond that some classic menu items we’ll always recommend are Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower, Royale with Cheese burger, and the unsung hero of the menu— their Chips & Queso (one of our votes for best queso in Austin. It’s definitely the most forgotten in the battle for best queso in Austin).

For dessert, check out their options of shakes, and if you want a real 2 for 1— check out the boozy shakes.