Local theaters celebrate decision to allow beer and wine during movies

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Popcorn and candy are a must when you go see a movie, but what if you could add a stiff drink? Well, you can!

Local theaters are already getting approval from the New York State Liquor Authority to serve alcohol.

Entertainment with a side of beer or wine? Yes, please. If you stroll down to the Little Theatre, its cafe side will happily pour you a glass to enjoy during your movie.

"I think it’s really cool, I used to live in Austin before I lived here so there were theaters that do home meals and beverages at your seat so this is cool, and it’s a local theater,” Emily Gammon said, who was waiting outside The Little for a movie.

The Little will even give you a special cup.

"You can come into the little cafe order beer and wine, ask for the "To go" cups and we pour it, and you take it right into the theater,” Scott Pukos said, spokesperson for The Little.

Moviegoers who are looking for the film/cocktail combo might soon have the luxury to pick and choose which movie theater. We checked the New York State Liquor Authority’s website, and on the map, it says “The Cinema” on Clinton Avenue applied, and it says, “pending approval”. The theater is changing its name to “Roc Cinema” and is planning to reopen as Rochester’s only dine-in movie theater.

"People were really excited when we posted about it, they were like "Finally" because it’s just an added element that adds to your experience watching a movie,” Pukos added.

Film buffs agree. They too, say this is a great way for independent theaters to earn back some bucks that COVID took away.

"The little being like a one-off independent theater is really cool, so anything that keeps them part of the scene and encourages people to come is great,” Gammon added.

The Little said it only has a select few options of beer and wine, but they’re in the process of teaming up with some of our local breweries so you’ll have an array to choose from.