Bay Bites
Annapolis Cinema Grill
By Gabby Crabcakes

A night out at the movies is as American as apple pie, but in this day and age it seems with exorbitant prices and the ever-shrinking screen size, the thrill is fading. Sometimes it's easier to just rent a video and forego the lines and $6 popcorn.

Now Annapolis has a fresh and affordable option for a night out at the movies.

Annapolis Cinema Grill, which opened July 22 in Forest Plaza (near Hechinger's), gives viewers second-run movies in one of two theaters for a matinee price. With so many movies being churned out of Hollywood these days, a second-run film could have been released just a few months ago (like Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, which is one of three films now playing). Screen size is large enough not to be confused with a big screen TV (10.5 feet high by 20 feet wide). But the real pleasure at Annapolis Cinema Grill is the luxury of table service food and drink.

While the concept is not new, husband and wife team Jim and Bucky Wills found it the perfect fit for the Annapolis market. After selling their family's Kent Island pharmacy to Rite Aid, the Wills (not ready for retirement) sought out a business that would complement their entrepreneurial spirit and keep them connected with the public. A nine to five job was not an option. The Cinema Grill franchise (corporate headquarters in Atlanta) was just the ticket.

The space at Forest Plaza is deceiving to those familiar with the shopping center. With almost 7,000 square feet, you'll be surprised at how deep it is.

Upon entering Annapolis Cinema Grill, you are met at the glass block ticket booth by the ticket agent/bartender. For $3.50, you get in. Since the theaters must be cleaned (aka bussed) between each showing, unless you're running late, there is usually time to enjoy a cocktail or other beverage at the bar (beer, wine, and liquor) or just hang out in the lounge. Theater doors will open signaling the next seating.

The two theaters are separated by a central hall, which helps eliminate sound interference. Starting times are staggered to avoid congestion and confusion. Inside, the theater is divided into tiered levels providing counter-style dining, as well as the more traditional café tables and very comfy chairs. A word of caution for those seeking the front row or lower level seating: While there's plenty of personal space and comfy chairs, you will find yourself craining your neck.

As for the wining and dining, menus are provided at most seats (tables share). Don't belabor your decision, because as soon as the lights are dimmed your server will be by to take your order. Everyone is ordering at the same time, and the kitchen is preparing meals to order: expect to wait a half hour to 40 minutes to be served. Drinks, on the other hand, are delivered efficiently.

Speaking of drinks: You can get just about anything you desire. There's a nice selection of both bottled and draft beers. The best bargains are pitchers. Both domestic (Bud and Miller Lite) and imports (Amstel Light and Guinness) are served in large pitchers for under $10. Glasses of Copperidge wine are $3.95, but since you'll be sitting for a while, the better deal would be to get a bottle (a variety of selections ranging from $13-$20). You can even get a frozen strawberry daiquiri ($4.95).

The menu also features a nice selection of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts. According to owner Jim Wills, the current menu is only representative of 40 to 50 percent of the corporate model, so more will be added in time.

Starter selections include buffalo wings (15 for $6.95); ultimate nachos ($7.95); an onion ring tree ($4.95); and the ever-popular popcorn (a large basket for $2.95). For more of a meal you may want to try the Black Russian sandwich ($7.75), a tasty mix of melted Swiss cheese over shaved roast beef and smoked turkey with a Dijon sauce served on a pumpernickel roll. Or the chicken grill sandwich ($7.50) with sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese served on a Kaiser roll. All sandwiches are served with really good (and hot!) house fries.

Pizzas in two sizes - 8 inch or 14 inch - with a variety of toppings are a good deal ($7.95-$15.95) and perfect to share. For the little ones 12 and under, there are several options. And, though they don't offer Goobers and Raisinettes, you could enjoy a chocolate sundae ($3.95) or root beer float ($3.25) with the your movie's denouement.

The Annapolis Cinema Grill
81-C Forest Plaza Annapolis 410/266-8437

Proprietors: Jim & Bucky Wills

Reason to go: A better value and a whole lot tastier than the metroplex.

Something to think about: It's not haute cuisine, but it's a heck of a lot better than coagulated cheese and stale chips.

| Issue 32 |

Volume VII Number 32
August 12-18, 1999
New Bay Times

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