VEGAN OPTION!!! The room was very nice 12 seat tables The salad was the table, vinaigrette was available. Egg rolls were vegan BUT the vegan meal was a hard 3. This hotel has a head Chef I am sure they could have had something better. I don't even know what it was. It was some sort patty with lettuce, a tomato slice a couple of pickles and a hard ciabatta bread. My husband got the chicken. He also gave it a three out of five. The vegetables were not cooked enough. It would've been nice to have a decaf, coffee and some tea or hot water and also lemonade. The entertainment was nice. read more

See all

Boring boring boring. Expect us, the audience to do all the work. Food awful. Waste of time & $$$ . Corny & stupid. Super hard to follow the story, clues didn't make sense. If I could give it negative stars I would. Don't go!! read more

My better half and I are always up for trying something new. It was my birthday recently and I felt adventurous to do something a little outside of our normal comfort zone - a murder mystery dinner! Clue is one of my all-time favorite movies so I figured why not! The Dinner Detective evidently has lots of locations throughout the U.S.; ours was at the Hilton Garden Inn in Burbank. You order your tickets through their website and I advise reading through everything to ensure you're still up for the experience. Tickets are about $68 per person. Menu options for entrées are chicken marsala, grilled salmon or pasta primavera. Also included are complimentary appetizers, salad and dessert. If you want to drink anything other than water or coffee, you have to pay at the hotel bar (which loads of people definitely didn't have a problem with). So how does it work? You arrive at the location and wait in line to register. After confirming your tickets, you are told which table to sit at and you get to create a fake name for the night (wear your name sticker proudly!). After settling in and mingling with your table, everyone has to get up and interrogate everyone else in the room. You're provided with a questionnaire to help break the ice like who's your favorite villain and other random things. Some actors pose as other guests so you don't really know who's part of the show until the end! Once the murder occurs, the mystery is broken up into three acts with each ending with clue(s) that are posted on a board for all to see (also accessible via QR codes at each table). The dinner is served at the end of Act 2. The killer and motive are revealed at the end after everyone has the chance to solve it (you write down your theory and they collect your answers). If you can solve the case, you are awarded a goodie bag with merch and a gift certificate for another murder mystery dinner. They have different murders/plots so you can return for a different show (each are titled on their site so no need to worry about having the same experience). How was it? Well, your experience kind of depends on how social you are as it's an interactive dinner. Some people were more outgoing/lively than others, but the actors (the detectives and hidden ones) try to get everyone involved. Speaking of acting - they were all entertaining but don't expect anyone to give an Oscar-worthy performance. While they follow a storyline, it's also improv heavy and they're not attached to mics so expect lots of screaming/yelling! Our table was in the corner and we were facing the wall so we got some neck pain twisting to see the show before we got room to turn our seats more comfortably. The food was pretty bland but that wasn't a deal breaker. My wife had the chicken marsala while I had the pasta primavera (which wasn't served; instead basic spaghetti was given which upset some others who ordered the pasta but whatever). Overall we had a fun time and would recommend it if you're looking for something different to do. They also do private events if you want to hire them for work, parties, etc. Dress is business casual so no need to come all fancy schmancy (unless you want to). Remember that everyone uses fake names, so if you get embarrassed rest assured that you most likely will never see these people again. They also have limited suspect package add-ons when purchasing tickets, so you have the opportunity to frame your guest as a suspect without their knowledge! read more

The Dinner Detective - Sign near registration - Dinner Theater Near Me - Burbank, California

See all

We went with around 30 colleagues. We had over 2 hours of entertainment, laugh and food. The Detectives were so funny, the place was very good. The food ok although could be improved. The recommendation: Must see it. Moti Levy read more

It was a corny experience but the jokes were okay, mostly I didn't feel the price was worth the value, they stated it was an amazing 4-course meal and no the food is not amazing, it's bland and cheap, basic and the chicken and rice were very dry, The skit itself was okay but it was mostly yelling like trying to play "bad cop" but got boring and repetitive Also I was thinking it'd be more interactive or interesting but the story line didn't make sense with the clues, and they need to figure out their prize system cause that doesn't make any sense either, I don't know I just thought it would be a lot better than it was for that price read more

I had such an amazing time. I went for my birthday and it was the first time doing something like this. The actors were great with imprompt and they were funny too. read more

I wanted to do a little something different for Valentines day for my Girlfriend this year. I researched a few option and clicked different links on web pages. Eventually I ended up at The Dinner Detective web site. So glad I ended up here. We didn't know what to expect! However, we both had a great time! The food was amazing, the people at our table were a lot of fun! The whole thing was just fun! I can not recommend this enough for any couple!!! read more

Oh what fun! I didn't know what to expect going into this, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much fun we were all having. The case itself was interesting and fun to solve, but it was the actors that made it an absolute blast. Truly talented, kind and hilarious people were a part of our show. I found myself laughing more than I have in a while, which is always wonderful! I am taking a star away for food because it was a bit mediocre honestly. I found chicken to be a bit over cooked and chewy. But I am glad the appetizers were tasty. Of course, this experience is more about the show/experience than the food. So if you're considering going, just do it! read more

The Dinner Detective - a group of people sitting at tables - Dinner Theater Near Me - Burbank, California

See all

Way more fun and entertaining than I expected. The food was decent, nothing spectacular, but you're not there for the food, you're there for the fun. The mystery is ridiculous, in the best way possible and the cast was hilarious. They had some fantastic unscripted moments. Staff was great too. My only suggestion is to get there even earlier than they recommend if you want to get a drink to bring into the show. But once the show got started it was easy to get a drink at the bar. We'll be back for sure if they do a different show. Thanks for the good times! read more

Awful service. After rescheduling our date and paying essentially double the cost, we showed up to find out that there were no seats for us and were turned away. Rude box office workers that tried to accuse us of not paying the fee, despite having email proof. As a theatre patron of over 20 years, this is the worst experience I've ever had. Hands down. read more

Looking for a night of adventure, laughs, and meeting new people? Then here you go! I recommend everyone give The Dinner Detective a go!

So glad my husband and I came. Performers were excellent! Food was delicious and it was great to meet and interact with everyone. Totally recommend coming. Thanks for a great show experience!! read more

There is parking nearby in a garage and I believe you can get your ticket validated in the hotel where the dinner detective show is. I brought a small group of friends to this and it was so great because immediately you get a character name at the front door and jump right in. I'd recommend this for a group that has fun role-playing, especially for a birthday party. The actors are very funny, animated and interactive. Loved everything about this, especially the host. They really know how to get the audience involved. Keep in mind there are many groups in the room with you so you meet a lot of strangers who are also role-playing. Turns out the murderer was at our table and we had no idea! read more

Lots of Fun! Elise, Gabby, Jeffrey, Brenan (we missed the name of the Host, The Chief Detective and the first Victim)were all great! The show is interactive and really entertaining. The first interrogation was a bit confusing for the sake of the investigation, but certainly a way to make new friends. Very generous amount of food. Well organized. We laughed like crazy and we certainly recommend it! read more

The show was great. The food was mediocre. The service was fine. The ambiance looked like a hotel.

Great food and even better show!! Bring your friends and family the show is amazing and the actors were outstanding

I gave it one star because it started on time. This was not worth the price. I shouldn't have had to pay for a soda-how is that not included in the price? The acting was terrible and they didn't keep my attention. The food was not good. It had no taste. I would not recommend this to my friend/family. read more

We loved this event! At first we were skeptical of it being 'lame' and 'cheesy' but it turned out to be cheesy & funny!! The staff & actors were amazing! We even had a couple planted actors sitting at our table and they played their part so well. The food 8/10, its hotel food what do you expect. Service 10/10. Parking is easy (underground at hotel). Would definitely attend again (but will try another location since I hear each location has a different story line). read more

This show was a great way to spend time with family and friends. It was a great laugh, icebreaker,and a way to catch a break from work while still figuring things out at the same. Food was great host and actors were great. read more

We planned this for a company celebration, and everything turned out SO GREAT- It was super successful, and the group of folks involved in The Dinner Detective were such a delight to work with. The event producer (Marc) was kind and communicative before the event transpired. The actors were funny, added office inside jokes, and were lively the entire time. We specifically had this at the Burbank location. The dinner space was easy to find, organized well, and spacious enough for our group (about 50 + people). The food was good, and most of everything was taken care of. Thanks The Dinner Detective- We won't forget this night...we had a blast! read more

The Dinner Detective - Murdered at a Dinner Detective Show...one for the books! - Dinner Theater Near Me - Burbank, California

I enjoyed the show. But the 3 stars is because we were sat at the wrong table. We finished our salad and were promptly moved by staff. Making us grab our own plates and silverware and sit at another table that already had finished their appetizers. So me and my friend just sat there hungry until hours later when they served dinner. Also served my friend a cheesecake after us already putting down he was vegan. The dinner/meal situation really kept us from completely enjoying ourselves, unfortunately. Which is a shame because the detectives were a lot of fun. read more

This was AMAZING!! My mom and I went to the show and it completely blew our expectations (given that we weren't sure what to expect ) You had to come up with an alias code name and then they chose audience members to be interacted and the host picked my mom out as a suspect! So much fun and the actors were AMAZING!! From the host, to the detectives and then the actors who were mixed in, it was SUCH a fun experience. It was so fun to try to figure out all the clues and such an enjoyable night. Highly recommend for a fun evening of mystery and laughter and I totally want to come again for a birthday party! read more

We had a great time! The actors are so skilled. They brought out the best in the audience--they made the hair dresser from Sherman Oaks seem suspicious and the business guy from RPV hilarious! read more

Very awesome show. Had a lot of fun and show was very inclusive. Great food and very good acting.

As you probably are thinking, how the heck does this work? Will I really be able to solve the murder mystery? What's the program like? I had all these questions and let me tell you the show was very great. I went with my wife for a birthday dinner. You check in at 6:00pm and the show starts around 6:30pm. The meal was a salad with meatballs and egg rolls, chicken or fish with rice, and vegetables, and cheesecake for dessert. The food was good, but nothing incredible. For the show it starts off with a little briefing that the killer is already in the room. Each guest has to pick an alias to go by, mine was Johnny Jangles because I thought it sounded funny. Other people picked celebrities, super heroes, and more. I don't want to give away too much, but they give you some paper and sheets with clues as the actors describe (very hilariously I might add) what their thought process is. The show is very interactive with LOTS of audience participation, so be aware you may have to get up and speak for the group. As the night goes on the actors reveal more of the evidence and what they think happened. Just look for hints and subtle clues I'd recommend. The skits and dialogue feel current and are not cheesy or gimmicky. The jokes are good and there is a nice amount of improv from the actors as well to personalize the night. I'd highly recommend this. My wife at one point said her cheeks were hurting from laughing so much. All the winey reviews must be from people who aren't personable and fun. You gotta have a good heart and be somewhat social with a sense of humor to enjoy this. *On a side note, the night we went I ended up not only sitting at the killer's table, but was right next to them the entire night! read more

I had a great time with the dinner detectives. they provided a lot of fun entertainment for my group. Would 100% do again!

The event was a ton of fun! My mom and I had a great time, the actors were super funny and personable, and the food was great as well. Highly recommend! read more

The actors were amazing, venue was good, and energy in the room was so much fun!! The host was energetic and helped the room get excited about things. The murderer was at our table and it was fun to interact with him, and piece the clues together. overall a wonderful experience!! read more

Had a fantastic time. Some guests didn't know how to behave but the actors and hostess were so professional. Lots of laughs, good food, great fun. read more

Dinner detective was an absolute fun and hilarious evening... adults only as some of the humor is not for children. Okay food. Great actors and plot. A blast. I recommend it for a fun and social night. read more

We had a great time - I'm 70 & this was my first time at a murder mystery event! Great fun - great actors! Absolutely fun people.

This was my first dinner, have been wanting to participate for awhile now and I have to say that it was super fun and I really recommend this for couples and groups. My table had so much fun, we laughed continuously and at one point I thought my husband was the killer. I guessed the killer right away but threw everyone off by also playing into the event. Go into this by being open minded and willing to suspect everyone and you will have a great evening. Actors were awesome and can't wait to do this again!!! Great job read more

The Dinner Detective - Dinner Theater Near Me - Burbank, California

We LOVED this event!! It's really cheesy so just lean in and you'll have a great time. I actually need to know who played the two cops because they are SO FUNNY and fantastic. The food was delicious ( I was expecting sub par food because we went for the show, was happy to be wrong!) Will definitely recommend to friends/come back soon! read more

Dinner Detective is such a great time! The actors are amazing and they make sure you're included in the show. The hosts are really funny, you get to guess "who done it" with a handy guided sheet, and you even get the chance to win a prize at the end of the night if you guess right! They do have a full bar as well so if you're interested make sure you have your ID handy. Get ready to laugh and enjoy a night of murder mystery! read more

I visited a friend in the LA area for the weekend. I thought this would be a fun activity for us to both enjoy and I was right. We met a lot of nice people and enjoyed the dinner as well as the activities. It was challenging fun and I would recommend this event for any office group of friends, family or even just with one friend! read more

We had a team event at 'The Dinner Detective'. This is held at the very large Holiday Inn. One of the nicest Holiday Inn's I have seen. Our group was seated promptly at three tables. Most of the team had different ideas on what this was. I told them all, 'Do not worry, just have fun as you will'. So I will not rate this experience with the food included as the food was so so at best. You may want to eat something before you go as the portions are a tad on the smaller side and if this was based on food alone, I would never return. However, this is about the Dinner Detective. The show was 'FABULOUS'!!!!!! Everyone should go at least once. It was one of my best nights out this year!!! I as well as our team never laughed so hard for such a long period of time in such a long time and boy that felt good. The actors are great, the Detectives are awesome!!! Quick with wit and very engaging and interactive. I roared with laughter at some of thier quips with the audience. There is true talent there and I hope they can achieve thier acting dreams as they mad our night!!! :) The clues can help but it is better to get up and start to interview all the suspects. Such fun! There are normal people who really get into this and you really start to suspect them. :) I wont give away anything as you need to experience this, however, there are some surprises that caught us off guard. Bottom line, top talent that really work hard to entertain you and they all came through in spades!!! Awesome job to Dinner Detective!! :) read more

Was such a great time. My friend suggestion as she was already staying at the hotel it was held in, and it was near my house. Fantastic! without giving too much away, come for a good time, be silly, and even though most people thought I was the killer!!!! (that may have been the best part) read more

Great mystery and the actors were awesome, had a lot of fun w it. We all (party of 7 inc our teenagers) had a wonderful time!.

My sister and I used to go to a fantastic dinner/murder mystery show in the early 1990s, in a place called Val's, where the Toluca Lake Trader Joe's is located now. We missed going to these nifty productions, so when she found The Dinner Detective we wanted to give it a try. YOU MUST GO! OMG, it's so-much-FUN! All the actors are such a hoot, they all have such a gift for improv, and the "detectives" are a laugh riot. While it's not cheap, it's WELL WORTH the money, and the food at the Holiday Inn is impeccable. (See my separate review on that.) We laughed and laughed. The story line is fun and twisty enough that you DO have to pay attention if you want to solve the mystery. (I always appreciate a well thought out plot.) I'm usually an introvert but this was all so cool, I felt comfortable enough to mingle and 'interrogate' my fellow diners. If you're looking for something interesting and enjoyable, go there and have a good time. (The prize is AMAZING!) Tell 'em that Olivia Benson sent you. ;) read more

Fun dinner but a little long. I felt that the show could have been done within two hours. We were there for 3 1/2 hours. The actors were funny and the food was average. I would want to try a different location and see how the other shows are. read more