Friday, September 28, 2001

Not your typical dinner and a movie
By Emily Turner
Skiff Staff

Nestled amongst coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques, Angelika Film Center in east Dallas provides film patrons a unique movie experience.

The film center, located at 5321 East Mockingbird Lane, opened its doors Aug. 5, 2001. The Angelika attracts a crowd that ranges from college students to middle-aged adults who are all searching for fresh movie entertainment.

According to Citadel Cinemas Inc., the Angelika is the most successful and well-known art-house cinema in the United States. Exclusively showing independent and specialty films, the center is a unique addition to Dallas’ cultural division. Dallas, Houston and New York City are the only cities to host a theater of this caliber.

Guests can take advantage of valet parking, and the theater entrance is complete with extravagant steps and a meandering fountain. Large glass plates and neon blue lights accompany the box office as the Angelika immediately expresses its individualism. Not only does the center offer movie-lovers diverse film programming, but in-house dining is also available. The Angelika Café and bar presents film buffs with delicious, made-from-scratch dishes prepared by the renowned Dallas chef Lisa Kelley.

Kelley said Angelika Café serves Mediterranean-influenced American food in a bistro-style atmosphere. The café draws in a crowd throughout the week, she said.

“We have older couples during the week and a lot of college kids on the weekends.” Kelley said. “Everyone seems to love (the film center) because you can eat a meal, drink and watch a movie all at the same time.”

While some guests choose to dine in the up-scale atmosphere of the café, others prefer take-out. Versatility at the Angelika allows patrons to devour a lavish meal and sip on a cocktail in an indoor or outdoor setting and even in one of the eight theaters.
The complex adds a new dimension to a night out at the movies. It is the place to chat with friends at the adjacent Trinity Hall Irish Pub or to enjoy a frozen drink at the Margarita Ranch that is opening soon. Inside the Angelika, comfy leather sofas await anyone longing for a latte and some post movie conversation.

But the center isn’t limited to dining and entertainment.

When making the trip to the Angelika, shopping should definitely become part of the agenda. Virgin Records, Urban Outfitters , Gap, Ann Taylor and Victoria’s Secret are just a few establishments open weekends and weekdays within walking distance from the Angelika.

For those wanting to explore alternative Dallas locations, the Angelika is just minutes away from shopping and dining at North Park Mall and Highland Park Village.

Snuffers Restaurant and Bar, located on Greenville Avenue, is another popular eatery that offers casual dining on the way to the Angelika. Known for their juicy hamburgers and cheese fries, this hangout is a favorite to many Dallas residents.

Fine dining and a different movie experience are waiting for students who are willing to make the 35-minute drive from TCU for a perfect evening excursion. Tickets at the Angelika cost $5.50 with a student discount.