They get all the cool movies. And the snacks are reasonably priced. I recently saw OnE Battle After Another there

The Mayfair is a little gem in Ottawa! It is an old school cinema with a comfy vibe and a nerdy selection of films. Complete with a velvet curtain that rises and old couches (if you're lucky) to relax on, the Mayfair is a great place to catch those flicks that don't always make it to the big theatres. The Mayfair has a lot of character, not flash, and the movies that are screened there reflect this. It's the kind of place that features cult classics like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and gorgeous documentaries like Jiro Dreams of Sushi. It is cash only, so remember to stop by the ATM, before you get your tickets and popcorn. read more

I love the Mayfair theatre! I love it's old-time charm and the indie, independent films they play. Here you will find films playing no where else-- the most offbeat, odd films and some not so mainstream, independent films. (My favourite has been Rust & Bone). The Mayfair theatre was established in 1932--it's been around quite sometime! The theatre maintains much of the charm and history and character. It's usually pretty clean here and it is very large and spacious, unlike some other 'vintage' like theatres in Ottawa. Drinks, popcorn and candy are very inexpensive, though they only accept cash at the concession booth. However, there is an ATM available. If you're going to a busy showing, go early and snag a couch at the back. I don't know about you, but half the reason I do not visit the movie theatre is so I can enjoy relaxing on a couch--so this is a nice perk! The Mayfair has a yearly pass, which I would recommend. I love supporting local business and I would highly recommend a trip to the Mayfair. It is most definitely my favourite theatre. Side note: Every once and a while they host dog-friendly movies for local dog rescues! AMAZING! read more

I've never actually been to an old theater before, so I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in. I was given tickets to a showing at Mayfair so I didn't really know what to expect. When I arrived there was a lineup outside, and I couldn't understand why nobody was going inside haha. Then I realized that there was only 1 theater inside and that the viewers for the next showing had to wait outside until the previous showing was done and people had all shuffled out. I can imagine this being difficult in the winter or when it rains, but that can't really be helped. I'm glad I was able to go on a nice summer day! Also, you really can't show up late to these films or you'll definitely get bad seats since everyone was in a single line waiting to get in. There was a concession stand on the left when you walked in and washrooms to the right. Pretty simple, but that's really all you need. The theater itself was beautiful! I was staring at the detailing in the room for a good 10min! I think this place is great to visit at least once if you don't live close by. Apparently the pricing is cheaper too. The seats were comfy and I really enjoyed the whole experience of seeing a movie here. I also took a look at the movie list they had and it seemed to play more of a variety of movies (new/old, Hollywood/indie?) So I don't think you'll be able to find some new Pixar movie playing there, but don't quote me on that. It was really fun visiting here, and I'd definitely revisit! read more

Mayfair Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

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This old-school cinema house brings back memories of the good ol' days. It specializes in Independent films although it does feature classics and foreign films. The decor is old yet original. The place could definately use some TLC but then thats the charm. The curtains part before the movie starts and the seats don't even have cup holders! There are a few couches in the theater as well which go quickly so arrive early! Non-members pay $10 per film while membership is available for a price of $10 per person per year. read more

Given how much going to a movie can cost these days, I love having options like The Mayfair around. They host new, old, and small-release movies in a cool old theatre at a lower price point than your standard Cineplex-type theatre. The Mayfair, like the Bytowne, sells memberships that give you a discount on tickets for the year if you go often enough. I love the little easter eggs in the theatre (check out Alien in one of the boxes above the main seating area), and the neighbourhood is great if you want to be able to wander out for a meal or drinks before or after your show - you don't have to settle for Moxie's or Montana's in a strip mall like you would at a big theatre. It's just an all-around cooler venue. Their snacks are much more affordable than the big theatres, and the popcorn doesn't taste like... not-popcorn. You won't have to coat it with artificial cheese to make it palatable. Definitely a solid place for a fun night out. Check out businesses nearby, like ZaZaZa, for deals on meals and a movie on certain nights, too. read more

Go, go to The Mayfair now while you still have the chance. Yes, it is closing its doors soon, but I won't get into that topic. What you need to know is the Mayfair is an old theatre that still has the class and atmosphere of days gone by, unlike the super-duper-multi-megaplexes that are around today. Walk in and you will see they use a cash register that is as old as myself. It's cash only, and the perks are few. They have a limited snack bar, but you aren't going to The Mayfair for imaginative snacking food. Nope, The Mayfair Si one place in Ottawa where you can find rare films, foreign films, documentaries, and basically all the great movies you won't see in the big theatres. It's an independent establishment, and it feels like it. The seats are old, but surprisingly comfortable. The sound is good, and the entire experience is something I haven't experienced in quite a while. this place is something special, get to it while you can. read more

Despite having walked by this theater often before, I just recently finally stepped foot in as per a friend's request to watch a foreign movie. I didn't really know what to expect since from the outside it seems very small. I found it inconvenient that the entrance is so small and that we can't go in any further until the doors are officially opened. So this means you just wait in the cramped entrance after buying your ticket if the doors haven't opened yet, which was the case for us. Thankfully, we didn't have to wait too long. The food area is very small, but they had a lot of choices and the drinks were cheaper than I expected (at least compared to other big cinemas) but the popcorn around same price as everywhere else I've been. The popcorn was freshly made and tasted great! I was surprised to find there are actual couches in the movie room!! Since we were part of the first few walking in, we got to pick a big couch. It was really comfortable and I would definitely aim for one of those next time I see a movie here again. The sound and image quality was great too! read more

In this era of blu-ray dvds, downloading and surround-sound home theatre systems, I find myself being drawn back to the good old days of actually going to the cinema. If you're like me, you will LOVE the Mayfair Theatre. It is a golden-era cinema that specializes in movies past their original run date. It also features, on occasion, classic films (in early October Casablanca played!!!). The decor is SO original that the seats do not even feature drink holders. And, in return for an original cinema experience, customers pay only $9 for two films. Memberships are available for $18 and include three admissions. Rumour has it the theatre will close at the end of November, so if you are thinking about seeing films the way they were meant to be seen, you'd better get off the couch and head over to the Mayfair today! read more

Mayfair Theatre - Classic cinema at its best! - Cinema Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

I love going to the Mayfair for the variety of old vintage and offbeat films they show. They are one of the few in town that still show 35mm only. They are in the process of fundraising for a digital projector, however as most of the bigger studios are only releasing digitally. They are planning monthly special screening nights as a part of this extended fundraiser. I attended last month's event - the first fundraiser in the series - in which they played the Big Lebowski. The event was licensed and there were many white russians in the crowd. An excellent theme night and overall a great experience. Another reminder of why I love attending. As previous posters have mentioned, the space needs some love (tears in the curtain, and a new paint job wouldn't hurt) but overall I have few complaints. read more

Unfortunately, this theatre will close at the end of November, but all the more reason for people to quickly experience this nostalgic and affordable establishment. The Mayfair is a compromise between the ByTowne and Rainbow cinemas as it blends independent, foreign and classic films with American blockbusters. Two movies usually play every night with a 2 for 1 deal for all patrons. Members of the theatre pay $6 for two movies, while non-members pay $9. To add an extra unique flair to this 30s styled theatre, it often screens rare cult and unearthed films put on by the Drunken Master Revue at the end of each month. read more

I'm writing this as I am sitting here because I am quite irritated and I will make sure the other people who came with us write a review saying the same. The Man at the front entrance (apparently he's the manager) where you purchase tickets was just a ray of sunshine, NOT. He was rude and obnoxious. It was my first time coming in and he yelled at me that I was blocking the entrance. For one, use your manners, I have two kids and I've been "blocking the entrance" for half a second. On top of that, it's pretty hard to see where the damn entrance is, when there's a cluster of people grabbing cereal and it looks like a damn line up. Another point to note, whether you bring a 2 year old or a newborn, or a 7 year old. It's all the same price. Not really worth it if you ask me. We will not be coming back. Not sure how this place is still up and running. Change your management. read more

This is a great movie theatre that opened me up to the world of foreign cinema, as well as non-mainstream films. I was a member in 1998-2000 when I lived in Ottawa! The double header movie was a fun date place in high school :D Fond memories, sad to hear its closing. read more

I love the Mayfair. An excellent mix of old and new films (including a lot of films on film itself, the quality of which adds to the experience) and a gorgeous atmosphere make this one of the highlights of filmgoing in eastern Canada. An unmissable nation treasure, in my opinion. read more

If you want a special event, you can come here for it, if you want to see something different, it may be playing here, and if you feel like sitting on a couch, in a theatre, and possibly putting your snacks on a coffee table, this is the place. I'm in love with the Mayfair, and it's really for everyone. It plays popular stuff, it plays eclectic stuff, and the staff are friendly and hospitable. If you want a change from the megaplex experience this is it. If you want to get together with friends for a great time this really fits the bill. read more

Every time I go to the Mayfair, I am reminded of the grand old cinemas of my youth, full of dreams and gilt. It's a lovely theatre, showing wonderful old masterpieces from decades gone by and terrible crap from last week. A lovely way to spend an evening. Oh, and they have the best pop corn in Ottawa read more

I love this cinema! Old timey and super comfortable. I've gone to watch offbeat, non mainstream movies. It's definitely my favourite place to watch movies. read more

I can't even express how much I love this place! It's my favourite movie theatre ever! The building is a heritage site from the 1930s and still has its old style (but decorated with fun movie paraphernalia accumulated over the years). They play super interesting movies that you wouldn't see anywhere else along with some mainstream movies. Plus, they show Rocky Horror Picture Show every month! Also, this is the home to the best popcorn in Ottawa. I highly recommend this movie theatre! read more

Great local independent theatre. Membership with discounted rates is available if you planning on seeing movies frequently. It generally shows cult classics (they screen The Room monthly), independent films, and second screenings. read more

Beautiful cinema. Love the couches; it feels like you're at home when the cinema isn't crowded. Never had a more enjoyable experience at a cinema. read more

Went here for the first time today! I had won tickets from majic 100 and Thank god I did because I will definitely be back again. The theatre is spacious and can hold a fairly large crowd, the atmosphere was great, the workers were friendly, cheap snacks, everything was wonderful! read more

I was not pleased with the extremely rude man who answered the phone. Might want to change telephone operators next time or train him to be more respectful. read more