![]() ![]() Read the full story on San Antonio Business Journal. “There are some other prospects,” de Leon said, noting that those talks are ongoing.Įditor’s note: This story was published through a partnership between KSAT and the San Antonio Business Journal. The city’s mayor says there is interest in the theater site. That deal was inspired in large part by the city’s interest in helping ensure a viable future for one of its more important properties. In November, Balcones Heights purchased a nearly 46% ownership stake in Wonderland, a deal it had pursued for several months with the mall’s major stakeholder group, led by managing partner Sid Weiss. That venue eventually closed as the mall later added the larger, multiscreen theater acquired by Santikos nearly two decades ago. The mall has had a movie presence since the 1960s when it was home to Wonderland Theater. It wasn’t financially sustainable, Handren said. ![]() Santikos tried to fill in the gap with other first-run movies. “We had a lease renewal coming up,” Handren said, noting that theaters reliant on art films especially are having a tougher time post-pandemic. Santikos CEO Tim Handren said a dearth of new films that fit the Bijou’s arthouse niche didn’t help. Multiple factors likely contributed to the decline, including the pandemic and the challenge malls have faced even before COVID-19 in attracting customers. Santikos saw its business shrink at Bijou. “We did know that that was their plan,” Balcones Heights Mayor Suzanne de Leon said. Balcones Heights officials, however, were bracing for the closure.Īnd while Santikos’ exit is a loss for the city, its leaders are already pursuing potential new uses for one of the landmark anchors of the more-than-60-year-old Wonderland of the Americas mall. I did find the auditorium to be a bit too cold, but the sound and picture quality was excellent.SAN ANTONIO – Moviegoers were caught by surprise this week when Santikos Entertainment posted a note on Bijou Cinema Bistro’s front door indicating the company planned to shutter the movie theater. The armrests can be lifted if you'd like to snuggle with your companion and there is about six feet between rows so getting in and out is easy. In the actual theater, you'll find over-sized power recliners with leather, a footrest, and a little built-in table. In addition to standard movie fare like popcorn and candy, there is a big menu of sandwhiches, salads, and appetizers. ![]() For those wanting something stronger, it appears the full bar is well-stocked. Soda fountains are self-serve, have a huge variety, and refills are unlimited. Concessions are pricey, but typical for most theaters these days. Seating is reserved for all shows so be prepared to choose a seat without seeing the theater first. Inside, there is just a small desk like the concierge would have at a fancy hotel that sells the tickets. Instead of a typical box office, there are self-serve ticket machines like ATMs outside. ![]() I love every thing about this upscale theater.Curious though, the Bruehouse 410 and Perrin Beitel, why do they charge a service charge on food? Your theater doesn't so I assume it's because we pick up our own food instead of having it brought to the theater by a server?įor the uninitiated, this theater is a bit odd. It's like having your own private home theater. The Bijou theater has been part of the Santikos family since December 1987, and over the past 35 years it has become. I love the extra large leather recliner seats, lots of leg room and the fact you can choose your own seat not worrying about beating the rush to get your perfect seat. Santikos’ Northwest theater at 7600 Interstate 10 West is close by. The bathrooms are very beautifully decorated and spotlessly clean, ALWAYS! They actually have a chef preparing your food, a pizza oven, fire a blazing, not over processed microwave stuff.I have my lunch there and the prices are comparable to most restaurant lunch prices. So much better than the JUNK FOOD ,buttery high calorie heart attack popcorn elsewhere. The staff is always friendly, helpful.The food is great(wings) is my favorite. WhenI first walked in I said "wow", from the beautiful chandeliers to theĭecatant bar, photos of prominent stars back in the 40's -60's. I don't find this theater "ODD " as one expressed but rather a perfect amibance reminiscent of the era of the oldies actors/ movies. ![]()
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