Movie Tavern: Dinner and a movie ... all in one place

People love to go to the movies. People usually grab a bite to eat before or after a movie. Why not combine a restaurant and movie theater? Better yet, serve your favorite draft brew or mixed drink, which you can enjoy before, during or after the movie.

What a concept. Why didn't I think of this?

Movie Tavern, a Texas-based chain, has opened its 15th location in the U.S. and first in Pennsylvania near Collegeville.

It's a whole new movie experience that will leave you wondering why you'd ever go back to a regular theater.

You know this is not your mother's movie theater from the moment you walk in the doors.

Movie Tavern features a full bar with three big-screen TVs, lounge seating to enjoy a snack or beverage before or after the movie and personal table side service inside each of its eight theaters.

You heard it right. Servers will bring food and drinks to you while the movie is playing.

The comfortable stadium seating comes with individual tabletops and a service call button so you don't interrupt other patrons when you need a server to come to you. (Hint: Get to the theater at least 30 minutes before your feature starts so you can place your food order).

And you get real napkins and silverware. No plastic forks and knives in this place.

If you just want to watch a movie, the tickets prices in the eight first-run theaters are comparable to other area theaters. No extra charges to see a movie ... unless you order food or drink.

The Movie Tavern menu offers a wide variety of food choices, including burgers, sandwiches and wraps, skewers and salads.

Appetizers run in the $6-$8.50 range. Burgers and sliders will run you $8.50-$9.75. You can also order a 10-inch personal pizza starting at $8.75 with additional toppings at .75 cents each.

Sandwiches and wraps run in the $7.50 to $9.75 range.

Movie Tavern offers a half-dozen beers on tap as well as bottled beer, a variety of wines and margaritas.

You can also order from the Kids Meals menu, offering five different choices plus a small drink for kids under 12.

If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, you can try a milkshake, fruit smoothies, soft drinks, coffee and bottled water.

And yes, you can still buy popcorn and other theater concession favorites, but where else can you enjoy a slice of red velvet cake or brownie bottom pie? Only at Movie Tavern's "Reel Dessert" area.

Movie Tavern lives up to its slogan: "Movies Never Tasted So Good"

The Collegeville Movie Tavern is located in the Providence Town Center, 140 Market St., right off Route 422.

For more information about what's playing the menu and prices, visit the Movie Tavern website.