Downtown’s Nearly Completed Alamo Drafthouse Starts Feeding Movie-Goers This Summer

Alamo updates

Things are getting close for the Alamo Drafthouse in Downtown. The popular and food-friendly movie theater has been in discussions since 2013 to take over some serious real estate at the Bloc, but new paperwork sent around to neighboring businesses says a summer opening is happening. The company also says to expect 12 “dine-in” screening rooms that each seats 80 or less customers, and with full food and beverage options available inside (including gluten-free and vegan food). There will also be a “casual full service lobby bar” on property when it opens. As for a firm date, that’s still up in the air.

In the alley

There’s a paella pop-up happening at Tabula Rasa Bar this coming Sunday, put on by the lovely folks from Otoño in Highland Park. The evening affair runs 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in East Hollywood.

Another option

There’s a new hand roll bar coming to Downtown soon and, after that, Century City. The restaurant is called the Hand Roll Bar Experience, and it aims to take some business from KazuNori. Look for the first location at 523 W. 6th Street.

New blood

Chef Robert Flaherty is now on site at the Pikey in Hollywood, having moved to Los Angeles to open Barbette in West Hollywood. The seven-year-old British pub will update some of its menu items while still focusing on its place as a neighborhood dining staple.

On the cheap

Free Play is rolling out a new happy hour near Downtown. The Tim Hollingsworth sports bar inside the Fields food hall next door to Banc of California Stadium is doing half-off select food and drinks from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily (unless its a game day at the stadium), along with options like $4 glasses of wine.

Native news

Speaking of parties, check out this one year Native Fields anniversary throwdown. The Walnut, CA spot is doing a series of weekend brunches that include guests chefs like Ria Barbosa alongside pop-ups from businesses like Whitebark Workwear, Keep Cups, and Now Serving, among others.