After being criticized for slow service and dropping alcohol from its menu, MovieGrille in Ogden is introducing a new ordering system that makes service times faster and adding new menu options featuring lower prices. The independent theater is also offering daily deals and a discount to customers who purchase their tickets online.
“One of the biggest things we’ve done to improve the MovieGrille experience is upgrading to a wireless point of sale system where orders are taken with iPads in the theaters,” said Devin Cash, who is in charge of booking films and overseeing operations. “This has made speed of service much quicker than before.”
Cash said the management has heard from customers who are upset that the independent theater no longer serves alcohol.
“We hear them loud and clear,” he said, adding, “I would hope that people realize that they still have a really cool, independent, local theater that they can go to and have a unique experience.”
Cash pointed out that most movie theaters do not serve alcohol.
General admission is $4 at the door. Customers who reserve their tickets online receive a $1 discount.
Tyler Hoffman, a Weber State University student, said he enjoys getting regular refills on drinks while enjoying his movie, and he likes the lounge chairs, but he hasn’t been back in a while because he had a bad experience with slow service.
Another Weber State University student, Danny Rubio, said that although he wouldn’t always go there he enjoyed his experience and “the chairs are awesome.”
MovieGrille opened for business in October 2013. The theater features oversized recliners and plush chairs that customers can lounge in while viewing a film and being served a variety of entrées, snacks and soft drinks. MovieGrille’s “CineScones”—miniature scones drizzled with honey and cinnamon–are a favorite of guests and employees.
MovieGrille currently shows a variety of films, but they are looking to bring in more independent films in the future. “We think that there is a following in Ogden that wants to see indie films, we just need to get them out to see them,” Cash said.
Deals are offered Monday through Wednesday nights. Mondays are movie night at MovieGrille. Kids 16 and younger get in for only $1 with the purchase of a kids menu item or any entrée. Tuesday moviegoers get a two-for-one discount on tickets, popcorn and drinks. Wednesday night is date night and customers can purchase two entrées, a dessert to share and two tickets for only $25.
“People go out for dinner and a movie all the time,” Cash said. “MovieGrille is a fusion of both. Sometimes people don’t have time to do dinner and a movie separately.
