The River Oaks Theatre
Movie theater · Neartown
2009 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019
Highlights
Step into a beautifully restored movie theater in River Oaks where you can enjoy the magic of new releases and indie gems, all while savoring delicious bites and cocktails delivered right to your seat in a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere.
"For a dinner-and-a-movie date all in one, book a ticket at River Oaks Theatre. The newly renovated movie theater, which also happens to be the oldest in Houston, screens a variety of films and independent movies, and also features its own bars with cinematic-themed cocktails, and a restaurant that delivers food straight to your seat. Diners can enjoy dishes like spicy veal and pork meatballs, lobster rolls, a saucy Luv Ya Blu Burger topped with French-fried onions and gorgonzola, pretzel bites served with beer cheese sauce and honey mustard, seafood cakes, and the banh mi-style Houston Hot Dog with Sriracha mayo and jalapeños. Dessert is also on the menu, but for a true treat, dip into Leo’s River Oaks next door for its souffles. They’re truly next-level." - Brittany Britto Garley
·
Mar 25
"Culinary Khancepts is currently renovating the River Oaks Theater at 2009 West Gray Street, with plans to reopen it and new restaurant Leo’s Restaurant. Jason Ostrow, Culinary’s vice president of development, told online publication What Now Houston, that the renovated River Oaks theater will offer film screenings, events, film festivals, and higher-end food and beverages." - Brittany Britto Garley
·
Jun 2, 2023
"See a Movie at River Oaks Theatre Built in 1939, this is Houston 's oldest continually operating movie theater, showing lots of independent and foreign films, as well as monthly midnight showings of Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Room . Try to get tickets for a showing in the main theater downstairs. There are two smaller screens upstairs that have their own charm, but the art-deco style of the main theater is really worth experiencing."
The Best of Houston's Uptown + Galleria
·
Mar 16, 2022
"See a Movie at River Oaks Theatre Built in 1939, this is Houston 's oldest continually operating movie theater, showing lots of independent and foreign films, as well as monthly midnight showings of Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Room . Try to get tickets for a showing in the main theater downstairs. There are two smaller screens upstairs that have their own charm, but the art-deco style of the main theater is really worth experiencing."
Offbeat Houston
·
Mar 16, 2022
"River Oaks Theater, Montrose. This Art Deco theater has been showing films since the late thirties. It might be small by today's theater standards, but it's the place to see independent and foreign language films. In addition to their regular screenings, they host midnight movie showings of cult classics like Rocky Horror Picture Show and Akira. You'll always find us there when a Miyazaki film is playing, subbed…naturally."
Houston
·
Mar 16, 2022
Victoria Sledz
Google
The theater has been beautifully restored. The ambience is cozy. The menu is excellent, offering small bites as well as main entrees such as hamburgers, hot dogs, lobster rolls, Caesar salads etc. Food is delivered to your seat by a discreet server during the film. I was impressed by the food? Very delicious; definitely not your typical quality found at mainstream theaters. The theater is in the lovely River Oaks area. There is plenty of free parking nearby and feels safe walking on the clean & well maintained sidewalks leading to the theater and surrounding area. I’m going to continue to recommend to my friends to visit the theater soon. There are upcoming events and movies that sound very interesting. The appeal is there. I’m sure we will return soon.
Julius Polintan
Google
Absolutely stunning experience from a movie theatre! Decor was beautiful, seats and tables were great quality to dine and watch, and the staff were very accommodating and pleasant.
I sat in for their spooktacular triple feature at a great price! And never felt restless at any point.
Drinks tasted great and the food was delicious, my only complaint would be that the food was saltier than I would have liked but other than the saltiness the flavor was great!
I had eaten the theatre popcorn and their free range chicken sliders. For drinks I had their orange whip cocktail. All great blends of flavor and high quality ingredients despite the saltiness of the food.
David Marmolejo
Google
This is such a beautiful theater. Old school with a modern touch, this piece of history reopened and it’s such an experience. Seats are surprisingly comfortable, staff is great and friendly, food is good, and the theater quality is excellent. First time coming, and hopefully not the last! I will say parking is a bit of a hassle, tiny spaces and to pay for it, I get it, but that’s a bit of a bummer.
Noe Huerta
Google
My first time ever in this theater and I absolutely love it! It has a nostalgic feel and a prestigious atmosphere. The mirrors, the walls, the bar give it all an iconic look to the past.
aric anderson
Google
Refurbished movie theater. Reminds me of a mini Grauman's Chinese Theatre in California.
It's a dine-in experience that's a little expensive, but worth it. Food quality and quantity is satisfactory.
Staff goes over-the-top with service! Just like the good old days.
Go support this theater. See what going to the movies was like when service was king and you movie experience was memorable.
Saw Joker 2. It was actually the perfect movie to see there.
Jason Schell
Google
RIVER OAKS is BACK BABY!!! I am 50 years old this year and I remember coming here at 8 years old to see a DOUBLE FEATURE of EARL FLYNN'S ROBIN HOOD AND CAPTAIN BLOOD... Incredible nostalgia here and such a classy movie theater... Definitely Houston's premiere nostalgic theater bringing back all the cult classics during primetime hours! It's very expensive, but the food is excellent for a movie theater AND the drinks are bar quality strong... NOT the normal watered down movie theater drinks. Just so happy River Oaks is back!
Relii Cabrales
Google
Absolutely beautiful place! Takes you back to the old style theater.
When you walk in you are greeted with friendly helpful people, then the theaters are so clean and ample, the seats do lack the fact that they do not recline but they are comfy and the service is good. Food is also delicious. I definitely cannot wait to go back.
Tyler Self
Google
This is a great renovation they have done. The art deco inspired style makes it seem like a blast from the past. While the food/drink are a little pricey they are very good. My only issue is the walls are not sufficiently insulated so the sound of the nearby theatre bleeds in to your auditorium. It’s very hard to watch a quiet serious film as loud screaming/music blares through the wall. Great for casual watching but if you are wanting a real cinema experience be aware.
Nick S.
Yelp
I am a huge cinephile, and I spend a lot of time in movie theaters. The River Oaks Theatre is one of my all time favorites
There are only three auditoriums, one large one and two smaller ones downstairs. They show some popular films (blockbusters), but often you can find art house films and other films that don't get as wide of a release but that are often included in the film festival circuits. You can watch foreign films, documentaries, and even some classical films
The interior and exterior are gorgeous and inviting. The marquee out front is modern but is reminiscent of theaters of past generations. Even the box office attendants, bartenders, servers, and ushers are in vests, slacks, and bow ties. The bars/concessions are relatively upscale, and there are drinks and foods that are film themed and fun
The staff is friendly and helpful. You can order food and drink from your seats or at the bar/concessions
This theater actually closed around Covid, and I was so bummed. I am so glad that they reopened and updated the theater, but not without it losing its classic and timeless charm
Some tips:
There's isn't great parking, and you will most likely have to pay for parking, but that is pretty much to do anything in the River Oaks area. Update: there is free parking in a parking garage across the street from the theater
Take a look online to find rare screenings or interactive cult classics like The Room or Rocky Horror Picture Show. Keep in mind, as other movie theaters are using leather recliners and other modern day advances, this is not that experience. Also, you won't purchase tickets at a kiosk in the lobby. You will go up to an actually box office outside the entryway and speak to someone in the box office. This is the classic movie theater experience that may one day be a thing of the past
Cheers!!
Jane B.
Yelp
I absolutely love the vibe of the remodeled ROT. From the uniforms of the staff, the background music, the decorative elements - everything adds to the perfect date night experience. I felt like I was stepping back in time, it was just so cool.
They do have a menu and a full bar service during the production. They also have bars on two levels. The seats are comfortable fabric cushioned, although they do not recline. They do have little food tables that rotate. Service for the food was perfect, the food was tasty.
There is security guard patrol in the parking lot. Everything is well lit. I will be returning!
Nancy T.
Yelp
River Oaks Theatre is one of the iconic landmarks of Houston. Especially in the River Oaks area.
There came a time when it almost closed due to Covid, but somehow someone pulled through and kept it alive. Whoever did, they're a real one.
I remember going even before Covid for an event. Wong Fu Productions. IYKYK. It's not just a theater space, it can host a multitude of events of all kinds. From stand up, to tours, to even music shows.
It's quite a novelty experience.
I think what keeps it from being a true 5 star experience is the cinematic portion. It tries to cater to a fun and upscale experience by having waiters. It's studio movie grill/alamo draft house meets imax. From ordering a $20 hot dog to a $16 old fashion plus your $15 movie ticket.
Oh, did I mention that it's quite distracting seeing several waiters coming in and out delivering food, holding trays of food and beverages, while you're watching your movie? Oh and one more thing, the seats are cramped just a smidge. While they are comfy, they don't even recline. Sad face.
I'd feel too rushed to be eating a burger within an hour while watching a movie at the same time and moving my head from side to side avoiding the waiters to watch my movie. I don't want to spend any more money, especially having spent $15 for a ticket.
Look, everyone should at least experience River Oaks Theater at least once. It's a novelty for sure.
But would I come back? Most likely not. I'd rather go to AMC and sit in a recliner seat with my feet propped up and a huge screen. Maybe purchase a Groupon for $9 bucks that includes a big ol' bucket of popcorn.
Kyla F.
Yelp
Wow I absolutely LOVE this place! It makes going to the movies feel like so much more of an ~event and really escalates the experience. The interior is beautiful, and it has a nice bar area both upstairs and downstairs as well. The downstairs movie theatre is very large and the space is beautiful! They offer a large menu and drinks to choose from, and the popcorn is bottomless for ten dollars! I think the prices are fair as well and not too much more than what you would pay for another movie theatre. Highly recommend this place!
Annalisa P.
Yelp
Wow, I absolutely love this theater. I had looked up places to watch a particular movie, and this theater popped up.
Looking back at its history, it opened in 1939, closed in 2021, then was acquired again and reopened October 2024. I love the look of the theater auditorium like the Wortham Center. The chairs are comfy like soft recliner chairs, yet these don't recline, sadly. The large screen drops down when the movie is about to start. The button to order food was a bit hard to find until I was walking up the aisle and noticed it on other seats. It's located down at the bottom right of the chair. I was used to theaters having it on the table. The food and drink menu had some fancy options and cocktails. The bar is upfront right when you walk in, and they also scanned the ticket there. There's a $10 bottomless popcorn option. I didn't order cause I knew I was eating out after, but next time!
The restrooms, single and multiple stall, are renovated so beautifully in art deco wallpaper, flooring and fixtures.
I love that they show old and new movies, comedy and music shows. I can't wait to see more here!
Oliver B.
Yelp
Congratulations on the reopening of this historic cinema.
Parking is available around the complex, and you will need to scan the QR code for LAZ parking. It was reasonably priced at under $5 for 3 hrs for a Saturday night.
The box office will scan your mobile tickets to enter. You are welcomed by a full bar to your left. The theatre downstairs has been fully renovated each having their own table. The only downside is the chairs do not recline, and the tables are slightly narrow for those blessed with big butts.
Servers are great, but they should be mindful their voices carry as they congregate in the back which can be a little annoying. Other than that, this iconic movie theatre is very much welcomed back for the community. Looking forward to returning.
Beth W.
Yelp
I was so happy to hear that the River Oaks theater was saved! The best way I can describe it is IPIC but make it eado/pre-cali takeover Austin.
The interior gives retro velvety vibes with a nice bar upstairs. The seating has been reduced to allow for more comfortable recliner minus the reclining seats. There is also food and drink service provided to your seat via server. My friend got the ice cream sandwich dessert which was quite nice. We didn't try anything else as we went to dinner before, but the options seemed more upscale. I look forward to trying dinner options in the future. The server was also super sweet and helpful. She definitely seemed happy to be there which is always nice.
The movie selection and times are limited so plan ahead and grab your tickets early. Ticket prices were also quite fair.
Overall 10/10 if you want a little different vibe to your movie night.
Katrina T.
Yelp
The ticket prices are comparable to a regular movie theater so that's nice! I went to watch wicked which was in the smaller upstairs theatre. The seats were comfortable and I was seated in row B which I was nervous would be too close to the screen but it was actually perfect! I ordered popcorn and a soda to my seat while some of my friends ordered burgers and fries. Staff was nice. The restrooms are located on the bottom floor and were small but well kept. I came on a Saturday mid afternoon and wasn't packed. Would definitely go again!
The parking spots surrounding the theatre are pay to park.
Haley G.
Yelp
Super cute theatre! Had the original theatre ambiance and comfy chairs. Only thing is that they don't recline. They have 2 bars (one on the first floor and one on the second). Drinks were pretty good. They have a food menu, but I only got popcorn & it was pretty good! Would definitely go again!
Kristin J.
Yelp
I absolutely love this historic theater. The chairs are super comfortable, but the only thing is they do not recline. I love the service and being able to order food and drinks with a waitress/waiter that brings your items to your seat! I tried the ice cream cookie which was delicious. I also love how they show more indie films
Martin F.
Yelp
In the 3 times that I've been to this theater, it has been difficult to get food service since they simply overlook me for larger parties or they just don't like me- lol. Seriously, they need to implement those hand devices that Alamo Drafthouse uses to get the attention of the server. I'm starting to think this personally. Also, the popcorn was WAY TOO SALTY on my last visit- almost inedible in fact. The seats are a tad uncomfortable.
Joseph M.
Yelp
Fantastic renovations. Gorgeous theaters and lovely ambiance. The customer service is exceptional too. Recently, I was helped on the phone by Ari (I believe) who was diligent in answering my questions and quickly brought me to her manager when my questions exceeded her knowledge.
The menu is small but really good, the portions are mockingly small for date night, though. Popcorn is GREAT. Cocktails are crazy.
THEY DO NOT ACCEPT APPLE PAY , this was the only let down
All in all, this is the only theatre I would seriously consider subscribing to. Not many business deliver past customer service to customer experience, but this one does.
Rachel J.
Yelp
Went to the grand opening for joker!! Was very nice and the food was delicious. Got the bleu burger was 10/10
Ashia H.
Yelp
I cannot get over how gorgeous this Theatre is!!
Honestly, I recommend going at night just so you can catch those spectacular views of the outside all lit up.
I had a good time at this theatre. The staff were friendly, the seats were comfy, and the pop corn was good (with free refills!).
There's just a couple of items that took away from a 5 star rating. The seat with the tray is a bit narrow for my wider hipped people. I could get in and out it was just weird trying to navigate. Also, towards the end of the movie the staff were walking through the seats trying to collect payments which was distracting. But! They were quick and that wasn't a huge deal for us.
Still a great experience!
Rachael L.
Yelp
This was the BEST movie theater ever!!! You walk in and they have jazz music playing and the environment/decor was phenomenal. The bar was so nice, the staff so kind, and the popcorn was AMAZING. Felt like I was at a jazz bar and not the movie theater. I LOVED this place and will be back. 10/10!!!
gail l.
Yelp
Such a beautiful theater. We watched a movie with a live orchestra and it was a great performance. Every thing has been renovated in the theater. The seats are incredibly comfortable and they have waiters and waitresses that come to your seats. I would love to return and see more shows here.
Rachael G.
Yelp
The River Oaks Theater is back!!! First, let's stop and think about how wonderful that is...
Ok, now for the review. It's nearly flawless:
Movie selection!!! Whoever is choosing the movies is doing a bang-up job. Seeing a movie you love in a theater filled with people who love the movie as much as you, it's an unmatched experience. It's something I remember from the old R.O.T. days, only now the seats are comfortable. Their schedule is so good I said "oh why not" and bought their unlimited movie (well, one a day) pass. It's $200 a year, so the math made sense. Seriously, if you're pretty sure you'll see more than one movie a month, just get it.
Live events!!! I love that they're making use of the stage. They had the George Lucas Talk Show, and Joe Bob Briggs, and looks like some more fun stuff upcoming. (The cinema savant unlimited movie subscription doesn't cover live events, of course).
Food and drinks!!! Ok I've only ordered popcorn so far, but it all looks really good. It's pricey though, so I'll probably just stick with popcorn. They have two very nice bars, one on each floor, and you can order drinks to your seat.
Now, here's the one critique I have, and it's what's keeping this from being a 5-star review. The staff is so loud in the back! They put in such an effort to move quietly throughout the theater while taking and delivering orders, so I really think maybe they don't realize how disruptive they're being. I saw a movie with a lot of quiet, intense moments - you know, like everyone in the audience is frozen watching the screen in anticipation - and the moment is ruined by raucous laughter coming from the back. Like, it really takes you out of it. Now, I have worked in the service industry, and staff camaraderie is imperative to a healthy work environment. I would never ever say how staff should behave "behind the scenes", and they do a wonderful job taking care of everyone, so I feel bad even writing this. But it bugged me enough that it makes me not want to see movies in the large theater anymore. Just something to consider.
So overall, the new iteration of the River Oaks Theater is a big win.
Carrie W.
Yelp
Luxe seats, note they don't recline. Lots of padding toward the top of the chair which will be great for tall people (and lots of legroom, too), but for short people like me it got a little uncomfortable on my lower back. May bring an inflatable cushion next time. Silly I know, I have to do the same things for airplanes. Fabulous service all the way around. Great vibes with old timey music in lobby areas. Extensive menu for now, with snacks and entrees, but doesn't seem sustainable as I noticed most people only ordered popcorn (which tasted weird like the humidity got to the kernels imo). A fabulous renovation overall. I'm super grateful that this Houston gem is back, baby, and that we once again have a beautiful venue in which to enjoy indie and classic films!
Nick J.
Yelp
I'm happy Houston has the River Oaks Theater. However, in the handful of times I've gone some issues I would like to see improve are the menu, seats, and pre-show.
Menu:
I understand this theater is located in River Oaks and the neighborhood of River Oaks being an affluent crowd but I would argue watching a film isn't a fine dining affluent experience where you go to eat food like steak frites and lobster rolls. I would love to see items like pizza, chocolate chip cookies, mozzarella sticks, loaded fries, or nachos. I would argue most people aren't River Oaks residents and would appreciate some of these more affordable options that people might prefer over steak frites and lobster rolls.
Seats:
Personally this is the first theater where I'm half way through a film and it takes me out of the film experience to think, "man my back hurts from this seat." Unfortunately I don't think this will change but something I wanted to address and don't look forward to when I buy a ticket.
Pre-show:
I think a simple warning or reminder to silence cell phones and remain quiet can go a long way. I was shocked to see how many phones and chatter occur during the past films I've seen here. I think a quick little motion graphic reel could go a long way and improve the experience of others and remind guests that it's movie time not phone time.
I really think this can be the inner loops Alamo Drafthouse but better and I hope the management for River Oaks Theater does more community outreach on what we're liking and not liking. Again so happy we have the River Oaks Theater but it's unfortunate I sometimes prefer going to the Regal over The River Oaks Theater.
Cait B.
Yelp
I went to the grand reopening and just had an amazing experience. I never went to it before it closed so I can't compare. But the architecture from when the theater was originally built was beautiful. However, it's updated to give you a luxury theatre experience that is popular today but way better. The style is this prohibition-like era style that takes you back to that time. The staff are all dressed very well and are incredible. They really add to the experience. They offer blankets for you to buy which is nice since it can get cold in theaters. Also helps you snuggle in when you sit in their incredibly comfy seats. I've never sat in more comfortable seats at a theater before. They serve you at your seat and our server was great. I got the pretzel bites and the strawberry mascarpone cheesecake. Totally recommend both. The cheese for the pretzels is very good but would have like it to be a little less liquidy and a bit thicker just because it dripped a bit too much. Not a big deal at all but probably my only one very, very minor complaint since you're eating them in a dark theater. The strawberry mascarpone cheesecake. Omg it was so good. My only complaint was that there wasn't more because of how good it was. So fluffy and airy.
I'm so glad I got to go to the grand reopening because I got a little piece of history. They gave out gold coins to everyone because it was a tradition in the early 1900s to give out gold coins to patrons on opening night to bring good luck and prosperity to the theater. They really did everything to take you back in time.
I have been recommending to everyone I know. This is a great experience and a fantastic date night place. Very upscale feel where you could even get a little dressy and fit in well. Will absolutely be going back.
Donna D.
Yelp
I went with friends to the newly renovated River Oaks Theatre and was pleasantly surprised. The theater was beautiful, clean and shinining. We arrived early to have drinks at the upstairs bar. The bar is still small with limited space but it was beautiful. The sound system was very good. The theatre seats are very nice but uncomfortable for short people and they do not recline. The staff was friendly and the service was good.
The food and especially the drinks are overpriced. Unfortunately, we experienced drinks that were watered down and although we ordered call liquor, it appeared that wasn't used. We did tell the staff that the drinks tasted watered down and did order another drink but they tasted watered down as well. The overall experience was marred by the bar but the theatre is a great experience.
L B.
Yelp
Wonderful service and a great menu to choose from. Very comfortable chairs and although the theatre fits plenty, it felt super cozy. Recommend crisp and juicy chicken nuggets with fresh ranch and mustard or the pretzel bites with beer cheese or honey mustard. Nice, tall iced drinks with paper straws that aren't disintegrating by the end of the movie.
Sandra L.
Yelp
My friends and I went to The River Oaks Theatre to view a movie. We decided we would go early to the have a drink at the bar. I would not recommend going to the bar if you plan on spending time there. The bar on the 2nd floor is extremely small and very crowded. It has 10-12 seats around the bar and a long sofa about 3 feet behind the people sitting at the bar. It was uncomfortable as people are constantly moving between the sofa and the bar. You have to keep moving your feet to let people pass. Also, we ordered some called liquor Vodka martinis that were very weak and appeared to be watered down. We asked the waitress to make sure the shakers were emptied of extra water, but the second drink was the same, watered and tasteless.
The show experience itself was nice. The seats were a little uncomfortable with the tables hard to move as you get in and out of the chairs. The popcorn and beer that was served was good.
Esther D.
Yelp
Stale, over-salted popcorn, servers dropping dishes and blocking your view of the film, seats that are not easy to get out of with really bad little tables that take up too much of the chair's real estate. Liked the movie but will not ever be returning here. How I miss what this theater once was.
Willis C.
Yelp
What a difference 3 years makes. The new theater is rebranded as a luxury theater complete with very courteous waitstaff () and pricey menu. I am just glad to see the theater back in ANY form. Joker 2 was a crap movie that I could not watch completely. If the theater mixes it up with classic movies like upcoming Baby Jane, that would be swell. Parking is no longer free. I'm glad to see it back! Bring back the old photos in the stairwell area. Ditch Joker and get us that Trump/Roy Cohn movie.