Wine, Cinema, and Salvation: How Booze Might Save SF's Movie Theaters

Photo by Steve Rhodes | License
San Francisco’s movie theaters are about to get a seriously adult upgrade, and we’re here for it. 🍷🎬
From Popcorn to Pinot
District 2 Supervisor Stephen Sherrill is proposing a game-changing legislation that would make it easier for movie theaters to serve beer and wine. Why? Because our beloved cinemas are struggling harder than a startup without venture capital funding.
The Economic Cocktail
Currently, theaters must generate 51% of their revenue from food sales to serve alcohol. But let’s be real - no amount of extra butter popcorn is going to cut it. Sherrill’s proposal would completely change these antiquated rules, potentially throwing a lifeline to small, historic theaters facing extinction.
The proposal isn’t just about adding a little buzz to your movie experience. It’s a strategic move to revive struggling theaters, particularly focusing on iconic spaces like the Clay Theatre in Upper Fillmore. Billionaire tech investor Neil Mehta is looking to transform this historic venue into an art-house cinema with a lounge - because nothing says “San Francisco” like mixing tech money with cultural preservation.
A Toast to Survival
While some might see this as just another alcohol-fueled solution to economic challenges, it represents something more profound. It’s about reimagining community spaces, supporting local businesses, and creating more engaging entertainment experiences.
So here’s to hoping this legislation passes - because sometimes, a glass of wine is exactly what you need to make that indie film festival bearable. Cheers, San Francisco! 🍿🍷
AUTHOR: pw
SOURCE: SFist
























































