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Any complaints on appearance is null and void as it's expected with a theater that's been around since 1928 so if you can't appreciate dated then save yourself the trip to enjoy old time's. With that said, it's nice knowing people have the option to buy tickets online beforehand albeit @ $14 or in-person cash only @ $12; I opted to the buy beforehand. I also understand why it's a cash only establishment seeing the owner would have to pay card fees if he started accepting cards at the box office or even when buying snacks which turn would up the prices for us who visit also. All in all my, girlfriends and I had a great night watching Stand by me.
La Paloma is a must see unique movie experience in San Diego! It will not be your classic luxury movie experience in any way. The whole place is quite run down, but that adds to the charm of it all. My family and I came on the Italian Movie Night which happens once a month and we had such a great time. We came with other friends who had been before, and brought seat covers which was a great tip for the future. They do have candy, snacks, popcorn and all the usual movie treats.
What a night!!! What a performance! We had the most amazing time at La Paloma. From the super welcoming cast out front, to the extravagant, artistic performances during the show of RHPS - I can gladly say my RHPS V card was WELL-stolen and WITH CONSENT! The actors and actresses were brilliant. Standing ovation! Whoever shouted "SUSAN SARANDONWRAP" during the show is my new hero, btw. The Theater is easy to access & parking was a breeze right in front. If you're a first-timer -- don't worry! You're in good hands (and spanks ;)!!!!!!) 18+ for RHPS recommended. This is WORTH THE $! Have yourself one heckuva evening! I couldn't believe it wasn't $50/ticket! I think we paid less than $15/pp and had a movie ANDDDD a show! Would suggest 15/10!
This place is falling apart, but that's why it's got its charm and character. Old movie theater built decades and decades ago, it's somewhat fell into a state of despair. Came here for a documentary movie on ice climbing and that was great. They definitely show a lot of Indy films related to outdoor sports not otherwise in big box theaters. They do sell popcorn and some drinks. Just very old school, nothing fancy. The chairs are not particularly comfortable so we only come here to see movies that are less than an hour long. Super cool place.
I haven't been to a local theater in San Diego before and I don't know why! I attended the Solento Surf Festival held here and had the best time. It's a very cute and quaint theater with a beautifully aged interior, complete with high ceilings and the all but recognizable dingy carpeting and theater seats (in the best way possible of course). But let me tell you, their popcorn oh my god was so GOOD! I don't know what they put in that stuff but it was magical and my friend and I ate the whole bag. I'll be on the lookout now for more events and showings at the theater because I'd love to come back.
This place is the perfect date night spot. The interior is beautiful and vintage and it takes you back to a diff time. The popcorn is delicious and the guy who made it did an excellent job on the butter:popcorn ratio . Also tons of restaurants nearby so you can do dinner first and just walk over.
There probably isn't one person on Yelp who remembers the old Ken Theater in Kensington. The Ken was around forever, maybe 60 or 70 years, before it sadly folded. La Paloma is the closest thing around to the dearly departed Ken. How is it like the Ken? On the positive side, it shows an eclectic mix of movies on the big screen that you can't find anywhere else. Like "Groundhog Day" on Groundhog Day. Like "Casablanca" and "2001: A Space Odyssey." Like "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," a mostly awful movie that I have seen on the big screen too many times to admit. The ticket prices are reasonable. The design of the theater itself, although the building is clearly falling apart, is unique. The popcorn is freshly made. You can hear the Coaster train roll by a couple of times every showing. Now, you need to know that some of the seats are literally falling apart. The ones that aren't falling apart are not comfortable. This is not Cinepolis. Still, a few of us appreciate these old dinosaurs because of what they offer and what you can't find anywhere else. read more
3 months ago
My home away from home! I've been coming to this theater since I was a kid and a place I have brought my own family. The owner is super chill (along with his furry sidekick who enjoys belly scratches) and does a great job rotating movies from new, old and independent films. Ticket prices do vary depending on the event. Sometimes I've paid $1, other times $12, but for my all time favorite Rocky Horror Picture Show, it's priceless!!! Highly recommend catching a midnight show on Halloween with a live performance. Here are some key points if you plan on visiting: * Parking - There is parking directly behind the theater in the transit center or you can find off street parking. * Cash Only - This is a cash only venue. Unless you visit their website and buy tickets online but you will have to pay a service fee. It's honestly not necessary because the theater is not crowded (except for special events, did I mention Rocky Horror). *Concession Stand - They do serve some of the best popcorn with real butter. Trust me, buy some! Sodas, Red Bull, teas, and candy. Again, cash only. * Restrooms - Always clean, well stocked. * Seating - Ok it's a very old theater and the seats match the esthetic. They are old, worn down, musty but hey, no complaints. Just enjoy the show! Check their website for the latest showing and times. Retro Rewinds are a must! read more
1 year ago
Any complaints on appearance is null and void as it's expected with a theater that's been around since 1928 so if you can't appreciate dated then save yourself the trip to enjoy old time's. With that said, it's nice knowing people have the option to buy tickets online beforehand albeit @ $14 or in-person cash only @ $12; I opted to the buy beforehand. I also understand why it's a cash only establishment seeing the owner would have to pay card fees if he started accepting cards at the box office or even when buying snacks which turn would up the prices for us who visit also. All in all my, girlfriends and I had a great night watching Stand by me. read more
2 years ago
La Paloma is a must see unique movie experience in San Diego! It will not be your classic luxury movie experience in any way. The whole place is quite run down, but that adds to the charm of it all. My family and I came on the Italian Movie Night which happens once a month and we had such a great time. We came with other friends who had been before, and brought seat covers which was a great tip for the future. They do have candy, snacks, popcorn and all the usual movie treats. read more
What a night!!! What a performance! We had the most amazing time at La Paloma. From the super welcoming cast out front, to the extravagant, artistic performances during the show of RHPS - I can gladly say my RHPS V card was WELL-stolen and WITH CONSENT! The actors and actresses were brilliant. Standing ovation! Whoever shouted "SUSAN SARANDONWRAP" during the show is my new hero, btw. The Theater is easy to access & parking was a breeze right in front. If you're a first-timer -- don't worry! You're in good hands (and spanks ;)!!!!!!) 18+ for RHPS recommended. This is WORTH THE $! Have yourself one heckuva evening! I couldn't believe it wasn't $50/ticket! I think we paid less than $15/pp and had a movie ANDDDD a show! Would suggest 15/10! read more
11 months ago
7 months ago
7 months ago
8 months ago
1 year ago
9 months ago
1 year ago
This place is falling apart, but that's why it's got its charm and character. Old movie theater built decades and decades ago, it's somewhat fell into a state of despair. Came here for a documentary movie on ice climbing and that was great. They definitely show a lot of Indy films related to outdoor sports not otherwise in big box theaters. They do sell popcorn and some drinks. Just very old school, nothing fancy. The chairs are not particularly comfortable so we only come here to see movies that are less than an hour long. Super cool place. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
I haven't been to a local theater in San Diego before and I don't know why! I attended the Solento Surf Festival held here and had the best time. It's a very cute and quaint theater with a beautifully aged interior, complete with high ceilings and the all but recognizable dingy carpeting and theater seats (in the best way possible of course). But let me tell you, their popcorn oh my god was so GOOD! I don't know what they put in that stuff but it was magical and my friend and I ate the whole bag. I'll be on the lookout now for more events and showings at the theater because I'd love to come back. read more
1 year ago
3 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
This place is the perfect date night spot. The interior is beautiful and vintage and it takes you back to a diff time. The popcorn is delicious and the guy who made it did an excellent job on the butter:popcorn ratio . Also tons of restaurants nearby so you can do dinner first and just walk over. read more
4 years ago
The La Paloma is of a dying breed. It's been around for 96 years, and is one of the very last single screen theaters still in existence. You can feel its presence and soul when inside. I came to an 8pm showing of "Waterman," the Duke Kahanamoku documentary, and was the sole patron. There wasn't a single other person in the theater. This theater, that has hosted nearly a century of audiences, had nobody. Thank you to the La Paloma and the gentleman who showed the film even though it was only me. Please support this historic and incredible space. Places like this are sacred! read more
4 years ago
Its a true classic theatre. If your ok with enjoying a movie without all the modern day amenities, and your willing to take a step back in time so to speak, then this is the place for you. They don't show every new release film, but they do show some. They also show off some incredibly locally made work, as well as live musicians and artists from Time to time! The only thing I would warn everyone, is that they are a cash only venue, which they do not advertise publicly until you are inside. read more
Logically I should hate this movie theatre: -Old seats with peeling fabric -Low slope = short people get screwed by a tall person in front of them. -Small screen -Cash Only -Old Attic/Basement scent -Could use a fresh coat of paint. However, back in the 90s I worked in a movie theater from age 16-20, so have a nostalgic admiration for this rundown theater. Its illogical, but I love the old school setup and vintage architecture. I hope it stays in business! read more
11 years ago
Cute vintage theatre! Came here for the Asian film festival with some friends. I never knew about this old theatre until we came here for the film festival. It's an old theatre but the place is cute and unique! The seats are wooden but at least they have a little cushioning so it's not too bad. There's also a stage in front of the screen which is good for presentations and events. The bathroom only has two stalls but it's not a big theatre so I wasn't expecting much. At least it's clean! Easy to find, right on hwy 101 behind El Callejon. There's plenty of street parking and also parking in the train station which is only a block away behind the building. Now I'm curious, what movies do they show normally? I'd like to come check it out again one day. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
What a great theater.. really takes you place with their retro decor and family environment read more
6 years ago
La Paloma is such a gem. I see the the movie house as a pretty aging female. She is charming, has good bones, she's lived a good life, has experienced many changes and her beauty is undisputed. I feel like the theater is kept open and functioning out of passion and love of film by the owner. It's clear that the theater itself could benefit from fundraising to assist in a little facelift, not the kind that changes it's beauty but restores it's beauty and ability to function. I have attended films showcased from film festivals, independent films and main stream films at La Paloma. I love waiting for the film to begin and enjoying the colored lights in the corners of the theater highlighting the beautiful architecture inside. I'd love to see the snack/popcorn section get some updates. I feel the limited options are a missed money making opportunity. I also miss seeing the two little (I believe Jack Russell or Rat Terriers) dogs wandering around, eating popcorn off the floor and allowing random strangers reaching out & petting them. I understand one passed away, it's clear the dog was well loved. read more
4 years ago
Great historic old school theater that shows second run or artsy movies. Definitely like to support the arts, and enjoy coming to enjoy the old school theater experience. Definitely old seats (not stadium seating), but most show times will not be very full, so you shouldn't have a problem viewing the screen. The only issue may be finding parking. read more
The crew of Crazed Imaginations takes over the theater every Friday night at midnight for one of the best shadow casted versions of Rocky Horror Picture Show I've ever seen. Okay, so I've only ever seen the Crazed crew do the shadow cast thing--they act out the scenes while the movie is playing and help get the audience involved--but it was a darn good one, and it'd be hard to imagine another crew doing it any better. read more
17 years ago
I could not live with myself if I did not give this grand old lady-the La Paloma: 5 Stars--just for still being around! When I attended a screening the other evening, I was immediately taken with the quaint charm and authenticity of this theatrical dowager. But I was also reminded of the film "Sunset Boulevard" and it's story of faded movie queen Norma Desmond. Not quite saying that La Paloma is the movie palace equivalent of a has-been Hollywood film star, but there are similarities because though the La Paloma is a Grand Ole Lady-she is a little thread-worn around the seams. Perhaps somewhat long-in-the-tooth. Still-there is so much history here! I was honored to be sitting in perhaps the same seats that Eddie Vedder's backside might have graced when he used to come here to catch surf flicks many years ago. One lady ahead of me in the "Blood Into Wine" line regaled me with tales of the olden days-when she used to work at the La Paloma. There is a small apartment on the top of the theater-like a small studio with a Murphy Bed that folds up after use. Perfect place for a dramatic assignation or two! Then I asked her where she thought the best seat in the house was. The balcony was her answer, but that has been closed off since a movie-goer jumped off it and died back when "Catch Me If You Can" with Leo DeCaprio was playing. So I assumed that meant the best spot was the back row that runs along below the balcony. That was a good choice but it was a little breezy there and noisy from the nearby snack bar operation-until the curtain was drawn closed after the movie started. I must take offense with the ladies room. While I am no snob, I did not care for the old covered-up toilet on the floor there. I even took a picture of the ladies room which had beautiful Spanish tiles and a cozy feel to it. But the dilapidated fixtures and no toilet seat covers were a health hazard and an eyesore. Still-as is my Yelp prerogative-I maintain the La Paloma at 5 Stars. They had the good sense to run Maynard James Keenan's wine extravaganza documentary there and for that-they now are the recepient of my endless goodwill! read more
3 years ago
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More info about La Paloma Theatre
471 S Coast Hwy 101
Encinitas, CA 92024
Directions
(760) 436-7469
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.lapalomatheatre.com
Hours
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Other Amenities
Ask the Community - La Paloma Theatre
Does the theater have its own parking lot?
They do not but there is free parking right behind the theater that's part of the transit center. There is always free street parking around the area.
Where can one park?
There is street parking in the front or a free parking lot "around back." I know a lot of people worry about parking in SD, but honestly, there's ALWAYS a spot. One will open up!
Review Highlights - La Paloma Theatre
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