This past Wednesday, The LOT, a new upscale movie theater and dining destination, opened in La Jolla. Owned by CEO Adolfo Fastlicht, formerly of the luxury theater chain Cinepolis, The LOT follows Cinepolis’ model pretty closely.
The idea is a film-viewing experience that is more than just about mediocre food and dreary seating options. Instead of scoring some popcorn before a show, guests can opt for curated Mediterranean and Mexican-inspired dishes from Chef Matt Sramek right form their leather recliners. Plus, all seven auditoriums offer 21+ viewers the option of sipping on craft cocktails, beer and wine while watching the films.
“The LOT will be a community hub, a place to grab a morning coffee, enjoy a full dinner, or catch the latest Hollywood blockbuster,” said Adolfo Fastlicht, owner and chief executive officer, The LOT La Jolla/Backlot Hospitality. “It’s a special place with uniquely curated experiences—from the restaurant menu and the locally sourced coffees, wines and beers we’ve hand-selected, to the local art and leading-edge cinematic and sound technology we’ve installed—The LOT is a place created especially for La Jolla and San Diego.”
The theater was designed by SMS Architects alongside interior designer and architect Ezequiel Farca. Along with the restaurant, the complex is home to a café serving locally-sourced and roasted coffees. Open at 6 a.m. daily, it is helmed by Chef Alejandra Pitashny and will also include house-made pastries and breakfast.
The Movie tickets start at $24 and seats must be reserved in advance. All screenings begin at around 11 a.m. with the final show starting at approximately 11:30 p.m.
