EpiCentre Theaters

210 E. Trade St., Charlotte
704/688-2400
www.epicentretheaters.com [1]

HOURS: Vary based on showtimes; 21+ after 7 p.m.

The EpiCentre Theaters might show the same blockbuster films as movie theaters all over town, but that’s where the similarities to a multiplex end. The five-screen theater is the first movie theater in Uptown and offers a moviegoing experience that deserves two thumbs up.

Reserved seats ($9 matinees/$12 evenings) are the norm, and the concession stand looks like a bar in an upscale hotel (with prices to match) and has a stocked bar as well as soda, popcorn, and Goobers. In the lobby, gallery-quality art replaces traditional movie posters and movie trailers are played on flat-screen televisions.

There are small tables at every seat to accommodate meals from Mez [2]. (The restaurant shares the same space as the theater and provides takeout from its menu exclusively to moviegoers.)