Dine-in movie theaters are on the rise, and why not? The combo makes the dinner-and-a-movie date night standard that much easier.  Although still limited in the downtown Philly neighborhoods, movie theaters that house bars and restaurants are trending. Even restaurateur Stephen Starr has hinted that he wants to open one in an area close to Center City residents. In the meantime, city slickers who don’t want to venture out into the burbs for the experience can opt for local bars that host their own movie nights. Check out seven places you can find the cinema-bar combo, below.

Movie Tavern: Feel free to get comfortable in the leather seats that line this eight-screen movie theater in Collegeville. With a full service bar and varied menu, burgers and beer can be delivered directly to your seat with the push of a button. Not ready to leave after the credits reel?  Visit the lobby bar for continued appetizers and good spirits (140 Market St., Collegeville; 610-831-9500).

Trocadero Theater: This independent music venue shows more than concerts and special events.  For just $3 anyone ages 21+ can catch a flick in their balcony every Monday at 8 PM. Admission cost also goes towards your first drink. Doors open at 6:30 PM and arriving before 7 PM guarantees one free beer.  Indulge in popcorn, candy and other concession stand favorites to enhance your movie-viewing experience (1003 Arch St.; 215-922-6888).

AMC Cinema Suites: For an upscale movie dining experience, anyone ages 21+ can enjoy their big-screen picture with access to a cocktail bar, extensive menu, and service at the click of a button delivered directly to your personal leather recliner. Visit the bar, MacGuffins, before and after to take complete advantage of this dine-in movie operation. Although sites are limited, there are three conveniently located in New Jersey, including Edison (multiple locations). 

Jet Wine Bar: Thursday nights are movie nights for this South Street wine bar. Come in from 4–7 PM for happy hour before the premiere at 9 PM. Check out their Facebook page ahead of time to find out which flick will be featured and don’t forget to order the motion picture inspired cocktail chosen by the bartender at the special price of $5. (1525 South St.; 215-735-1116).

Bistrot La Minette: Come to this authentic French bistro on Monday, Thursday, and Friday nights and catch “Movies Under the Stars.” At 8:30 PM on Mondays and Thursdays and at 9:30 PM on Fridays, this Queen’s Village establishment will be screening French films (with English subtitles) in the garden courtyard through September. Check out their website for a full show schedule (623 S. 6th St.; 215-925-8000).

North 3rd: Every Tuesday night in their lounge, this Northern Liberties bar invites viewers to be part of Fancypants Cinema. Movies are not pre-selected as they show whatever short films aspiring filmmakers bring in that night. Grab a beer or a late night snack while taking in local talent.  (801 N. 3rd St.; 215-413-3666).

Nomad Pizza: The first floor of this Bella Vista restaurant houses the domed brick oven, which turns out Neapolitan pies after a blistering two-minute sear, but the second floor dining room’s main feature is the screen on the back wall. “Beer Theater” happens on Sunday evenings at 8 PM, and has featured cult classics like Jaws, Grease and Clockwork orange. A decent selection of crafts pours from taps and bottles, making for a perfect brew-pizza-movie trifecta (611 S.7th St.; 215-238-0900).

Photo by Mark Henninger