New to PDX

So many theaters, and most serve beer!

By Richard D. Oxley

Living Room Theaters

Portland is known for quite a few unique attributes, such as our beer or avid use of mass transit. But we also have a keen affection for cinema. Any day of the week, Portlanders have their choice of big-screen attractions ranging from classic movies to TV show marathons.

Ah, but which theaters to visit? The short answer is all of them, but to get you started, here are my top five theaters you shouldn’t miss.

1.Laurelhurst Theatre
21+ after 3pm

It’s common to hear people say, “I’ll wait to see it at the Laurelhurst,” because tickets are only $3 at this second-run theater— cheaper than renting a movie! In addition, they generally offer one great classic movie. Grab a beer, a slice of pizza and enjoy.

2. Living Room Theaters
21+ after 4:30pm

Just like it sounds, though a bit more sophisticated than my living room. Sit back on couch-like furnishings and enjoy a cappuccino or a panini while you take in an independent or classic film.

3. Roseway Theater

Only one screen, yet it packs a punch. By far the best sounding first-run theater you will find in the city, and dare I say anywhere else. Someone threw some bucks down to make this vintage theater’s experience above par.

4. Mission Theatre
Age restriction varies

Kind of like going to church, if your church showed movies and marathons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer (and other cult shows). Pub food and beer to boot!

5. The Bagdad Theater
Age restriction varies

Yes, it’s spelled correctly. A very ornate yet laid back cinema with a full bar too go with pizza and popcorn. Settled right in the heart of the Hawthorne neighborhood, the Bagdad makes a nice end to a night out of shops and cafes.