iPic Theaters

I remember when DH and I became girlfriend-boyfriend, our idea of a "date" was to go to SM North Edsa and watch a movie.  He would pick me up from UP, ride the jeep to SM and we would watch a movie, eat at the food court and stroll around until its time to go home.  We were young and don't have enough money besides our allowance but we make do and enjoy the time we have with each other.

Nowadays, the only time we see a movie is at the comfort of our own home watching DVDs rented from Redbox or our neighborhood DVD Hut.  Except for the really major movies I want to see, we rarely go to the theaters anymore.  And I kinda miss those days when we would just cuddle up, just the two of us, and enjoy the magic of film.

This past weekend, DH's family celebrated his grandmother's 85th birthday.  Perfect timing! MIL will be available over the weekend. Someone can watch Macu! So for our anniversary, we decided to steel ourselves towards the movie house.  To make it extra special, we didn't just go to any normal theater.  We decided to go to iPic Theaters in Pasadena.

 Photo credit: iPic Pasadena

Ever since I heard it (they were formerly known as Gold Class Cinema), I have wanted to go and check it out.  Located in 42 Miller Alley, the place only has about 6 theaters with about 30 seats each.  You have to buy your ticket online where you can select which seat you want to reserve.  At $29 per ticket, it is pricey. But the ambiance, seating and service more than makes up for the price.

The waiting area is a lounge. You can get drinks and food while you wait to be escorted inside the theater. The seats are these very comfortable lounge chairs that recline. Pillows and blankets are on hand.  There is a table between two seats and with a push of the call button, your very own server is there to get your order. More cocktail? Push the button.  Feeling hungry? Push the button. No need to stand up and get popcorn -- they serve complimentary popcorn at the start of the movie. Overall, it was a great experience and will definitely do this again.

TIPS:

• Parking is validated only for the One Colorado Parking structure. 
• Plan to arrive early so you can hang out in the lounge area and get some "refreshments". But don't drink too much. Libations and comfy seat combined might make you sleepy. You don't want to start snoring in the middle of the movie.
• Food and drinks are in the $$ range. To give you an idea -- cocktails are around $12 - $15. We ordered the Prickly Pear - Honey Margarita which was kinda strong, but for the money you pay, you want to at least get a buzz right? Loaded Potato Skin is about $12. Generous serving for 2 people. We didn't get to finish it.  Blue Moon is $7 a glass.
• iPic Theaters is conveniently located in downtown Pasadena. Stroll around the many unique shops in this historic place.

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 I said before that DH is not the flower-giving type. Well, this is what he gave me for our Anniversary. I think he also mentioned that this is my birthday, Christmas, and any future occasion gift.  But let us just pretend I didn't hear that.

 

Half a decade of married life -- WOW. We still have forever to look forward to Love. So sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.