The traditional date-night formula of dinner and a film is receiving an update in Tampa.
According to an October 17, 2014 news article, the 14-screen Studio Movie Grill (SMG) is moving into the University Mall, and bringing a new dining concept with it.
Patrons can order movie tickets far in advance, and pick out the seats they want in the same way airlines sell seats. While no one is required to buy food in order to watch a film at SMG, those who choose to do so can order from servers who come to their seats. Approximately 12minutes after they place their order, patrons are served their meal—at their seat. About a half-hour before the film ends, servers return to process payments.
The theater strives to meet the goal of getting food to the consumer in 12 minutes, and does so by prepping meats and vegetables, and making sauce, long before the film rolls. There are nearly 50 ‘runners’ who wait on the movie-goers, and the kitchen comprises 2,400 square feet, giving cooks enough space to turn out meals quickly.
The food is not pre-packaged hot dogs and popcorn either, but items like Cobb salad and coconut chicken tenders, all made on-site.
SMG is one of a number of new restaurants and stores being set up in University Mall. Theater operators could work with a flyer printing company to create handouts that feature coupons, to bring new business to the venue.
