I love this theater... it's one of the few "local" theaters left in the city other than the Roxie & Castro. They have special deals like showing old school movies, Beer & movie nights, and they use to do this thing called popcorn palace where the first show on Saturday came with popcorn and a drink with the ticket. There's two screens, usually a more adult film, and a family friendly one. They recently updated to digital projection and the sound a few years back which really has made it better. It's a long theater meaning the seats are like 10 seats wide but goes back like 30-40 rows. The staff is always friendly, and the concession prices are pretty cheap. With the large of the popcorn or drinks, it comes with a free refill. The ONLY thing I dislike about this theater are the bathrooms, but it's an old building, and I think the bathroom is original to how it's been built. This is a historical landmark in SF, and I try to watch all my movies there if they show it. The area is also nice with many places to eat and drink. The only issue is parking may be difficult if you can't find any, you may be walking a bit to find parking further out.

I'm back today to see Clockwork Orange...... Nothing wrong with the staff here....at least not with the majority outside of the one guy I previously mentioned I love old theatres....was going to the Crest and Tower theaters in Sacramento as a teen It was at one of those that I first saw Stanley Kubricks Clockwork Orange I empathized with the central character.....I lived that life in those days... breaking and entering, robbery, petty theft, jumping people I thought it was a glorious life at the time.....but it got darker and darker And after a few run ins as a juvenile with the police plus breaking my mom's heart I decided I had to stop it all The Army was my salvation Took a juvenile delinquent and turned him into a soldier Gave me a family A band of brothers is not a cliche to those of us that served in units like where I was on Ft Bragg Anyway I digress This started out as a review of the Balboa It's not any one persons Theater It's a landmark to be held in high esteem and reference to a bygone era when movies were a grand spectacle Long Live the Balboa

Ok, so there a few broken chairs. It's kinda funky, but that's what I like about this neighborhood theater that I go across town for -- I think I fell in love when years ago I saw a double feature of the first Pirates of the Caribbean and a surf film. I won a prize by answering a trivia question right. The staff are friendly, they put records on in the lobby, and if I don't get a chance to grab a bite in the neighborhood, I really like their hot dogs. If you really want to get crazy, get a cup of the Rico's nacho cheese and drizzle it on top. Seriously, that cheese puts Cheez Whiz to shame. And Cherry Coke on tap. Ticket prices are already a good deal, and I finally bought a punch card. Something about not having to pay every time makes me feel like I can get an extra treat like an It's It. They've been showing all the good ones recently - from Popcorn Palace to Super Shangri-la to blockbuster feature films, it's a nirvana for lovers of the silver screen at the edge of the sea.

There is no point in choosing a seat online in advance because when you arrive for the film, your seat will be allocated as “General Admission”. I made a big mistake thinking if I booked a seat for a film a month in advance I would be guaranteed the same seat. When you go on the website to book, it asks you to pick a designated seat. I had to plan in advance because I am driving up from Monterey (our indie theatre closed down). Thanks for not notifying me of the fact that I actually had NO SEAT reserved, Balboa Theatre! I arrived 15min early and all that was left were the front nosebleed seats! What a drag! And just to throw it out there- update your registers! The service kiosk is slow as molasses because every order requires a paper receipt to be printed out and signed! Audiences should be forewarned to arrive 30min early to 1. Get a seat 2. Get in the 20min line for popcorn etc!

My roommate and I went recently to watch Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark (my favorite, and I think the best one out of all three.. YES three..). It was $10.00 and it came with small popcorn and a drink. Not a bad deal for a showing at 10 am. The seating is good in comparison to the size and location of the screen. There's "stadium" seating in the back for those who want some elevation. Otherwise, the seats below are fine. I'm so lucky to live nearby two independent theaters. They're worth walking to instead of taking the Dirty-8 all the way downtown for overpriced theaters. (Side note: 3D is expensive! I think patrons should get a discount if they bring their own glasses...) And congrats to this theater for a successful Kickstarter campaign on going digital! Check their website for special events and special offers.

I enjoy supporting a local movie theater and it's very convenient to be able to walk to the theater and enjoy a first-run film on a decent-sized screen.I appreciated that they remodeled the seats but now you have to constantly fight against the downward-slanting floor while watching which causes one to prop your feet on the seat in front of you the whole time. I don't know how other stadium seating theaters deal with this but they do. I wish they made enough money to finally get the plumbing in the men's restroom fixed so the urinal would actually flush properly. Kinda smelly in there. Their popcorn is yummy although not always hot. Getting to meet the producers, writers, directors of films is a special occasional treat the theater offers.

Upon entry you get a feeling like your grandparents might have taken their first date here. The guys running the joint are true blue movie geeks and really friendly and fun. You can see the love they have for this place. They have a fair selection of beers/drinks food is a lil pricey but the spread of toppings for the popcorn is sweet. They have a video game challenge on going like at you favorite old arcade for those of us that are old enough to remember them. Perfect lil neighborhood theater, very eclectic n worth a shot of your time. Street Parking can be an issue so plan ahead if you go on a opening day. Or wait till after 6pm when most of the store front shops close offering more parking options.

Historic neighborhood theater. Almost unique in that regard. I don't quite understand the reviews posted recently that criticize the seating - which locals and regulars probably know was upgraded in the past year or so. The seats are not plush like some of the AMC theaters, but they're comfortable enough and there's more than adequate legroom. The 2 theaters are relatively small and you can't expect the big screen and sound of a large modern cineplex, but it sure beats a netflix video on a home system, and the selection of first-run movies is surprisingly good. The theater is also located in a small commercial section of Balboa with a few (mediocre) restaurants and coffee shops.

Not sure what the purpose of assigned seating is when nobody sits in their assigned seats. We told the intruders in our seats they were in the wrong spot - they told us their seats had also been taken by other people and they didn’t know what to do. And on and on it went. Balboa owner/staff: At least make that clear on your booking site so people know in advance OR actually do something about it and enforce proper behavior. Don’t think we’ll be back here again. There are other, better theaters with a more enjoyable Rocky Horror experience (and where you know you will actually be in the seats you booked).

My son and I went to watch Wakanda Forever. It's my 1st time visiting San Francisco and the theater. I felt so nostalgic as soon as I saw it and walked in. I felt like a kid again. It reminded me of good times. The staff was very helpful and polite. The ticket prices and concessions prices were reasonable. You can also buy tea, hot chocolate, beer, and they also have their own line of Merch. The smell of the popcorn as you walked in was yummy. From the looks of it it's well maintained and clean. They also offer a great selection of movies. Definitely come by

I'm in love with independent film so comfort isn't my priority, though the Balboa is quite comfy. But they take some risks, which I love (i.e. Days of Youth, Inherent Vice, etc.) and I don't go into sensory overload with all the meaningless bells & whistles you find in big theaters. They were able to crowd fund their digital set-ups so you know this is a neighborhood treasure to a lot of people. It's like having your own intimate screenings except the popcorn is much better! Now if they add wine to their drink list, I'll be a more-than-happy patron for life!

Was treated rudely by the bearded guy for wanting to just sit in the lobby a bit early than my movie started..... literally snide attitude.....I asked for a refund....too bad everyone else there are decent with the exception of this one individual that acts like the Balboa belongs to him personally and treated me like I was beneath him Personal message to you "Boy" I'm twice your age and served in three branches of the military.....I don't take such insulting behavior lightly....count your blessings Picture of the Pompous, rude employee attached

It is a small theater neighborhood, so don't expect the bells and whistles of a big multiplex, like lazyboy chairs or cocktail service. I watched the movie 1917 on Feb 8, 2020 and it was pretty empty. My 4 stars are because it's close to home, I was easily was able to find seats and to support a theater in my neighborhood. I don't want another theater closing like the Alexandria did. It's employee owned and they make their own quirky ads for popcorn and such. They also have pretty old movies that they replay from the 80-90s like Fright Night.

Went and saw "The Room" for the 11pm 1st Saturday of the month. Perfect venue for it! Really looking forward to the last Saturday of the month for ROCKY HORROR!!! Great Indy theatre with all the charm your gramps used to get hummers at! Keep it real guys~ Hey- you guys with enough jingle in yer jeans to get you a beer and your date a popcorn bag with the hole in the bottom, be kind to your counter folk and kick 'em a buck or two- Chapstick ain't cheap 'yo! And if I catch u doin the Time Warp, I hope you're in heels!

I don't go out to the movies that often. But the Balboa Theatre is special. As a kid my mom went there in the 50s & took me there as a kid in the 80s, to see Ghostbusters Clash Of The Titans etc. They've always shown good movies. Alot of blockbusters & lesser known smaller films to. What's so great about this place, is they've been open since the 1920s & their prices have always been less than anyother movie theater in the city & I hope they stay open forever!

Cute theater that has 2 theater rooms, has restrooms prior to their entrances. Concession stand has a great variety of treats. Parking is mediocre outside as Balboa tends to be popular based on what time you go. Its paid spot parking. My suggestion is to park in neighborhood streets, this area tends to be more forgiving with street parking as its not timed/limited parking. Just be sure to turn your wheels and be mindful of street cleaning hours/days.

Nothing better than enjoying a movie than at your local theatre. The long history and quirkiness of this place will make you gravitate towards it every time you feel like watching a flick. Very classic and nostalgic feel, this place features classic decor of old movie posters, fresh popcorn and even beer! Because I grew up in this neighborhood, I will continue to support its local businesses and this theatre will forever be a part of my life!

Huge bonus points for being a neighborhood theater. I probably wouldn't get in a car to come to this place, but being walking distance makes this my go-to movie spot. The popcorn is great and the price is right. And they serve beer now (with local varieties). The screen is fine (no better or worse than watching at home) and the sound is good (better than at home). There's typically plenty of seating and the chairs are relatively comfortable.

This movie theater is fantastic! It has a very old school vibe that gives it a charm most other theaters don't have. They play two movies at a time and often offer movies that are not showing in other theaters in the city. They have a fantastic snack bar and allow adults to get child size popcorn. I would travel the extra distance to get to this theater over the larger ones found throughout the city.

My husband and I saw The Room last night and it was so much fun! He made me watch The Room 4-5 years ago and I hadn't seen it since (quite gladly until now), but watching this nonsensical gem with a crowd was quite an experience, we'll definitely be back. Even if you haven't seen The Room, don't skip out on a showing of it or another movie here. Thanks so much, Balboa Theater!

Great old two screen neighborhood theater. They got new seats and digital projectors a few years ago, but still do classic movies and special events almost as often as first run blockbusters. Just this weekend they had a Hitchcock festival on one screen with the new Avengers on the other. Good concessions including craft beer and It'sIts and all the staples of a theater.

Great place to enjoy a movie without having to go to one of the big movie theaters in the city. The Balboa has current movies out in theaters and a good number of showings per day. Great food places are all around it but you may not bring food into the theater. If you go often, I suggest getting their punch card which gives you access to 5 movies at a generous discount.

Decided to update my review. I've been going here consistently for a few years now and have fallen in love with the old school charm. The sound and video quality is fine (although not the greatest) but everything else is great- multiple movie passes, special events and they now serve alcohol! Local movie theaters are a dying breed, we should all be trying to save them.

Disappointing. The seats were remarkably uncomfortable, the staff was downright hostile (told us to get out immediately after our movie ended), and the projectionist was incompetent. For a $15 ticket, the experience shouldn't be so poor. This may be a "local gem" but management needs to make drastic changes if they want to stay competitive. I will not be back.

Old-school theater (i.e. no stadium seating and the theater stretches way way back), average concession options, and oddball ads for the theater arcades at the beginning of the previews. Not all bad, but certainly nothing special outside of the nostalgia factor. They do have cool one-off showings, though, so check their website and Facebook page for those.

This is the best movie theater in San Francisco. It's nostalgic in that it makes you feel like you've been sent back in time and landed here. It gives you a sense of a wonderment that you can only find in a movie theater I've been coming here for years and I don't even live in this county. We can all thank Gary and his crew for saving this wonderful place.

I love this theater. It's very welcoming. All the people that work there are incredibly nice. There are only two screens, which are pretty small, but that's what I love about this place. Every Wednesday night they play an old movie, which I enjoy with one of the many beers that they sell and delicious buttered popcorn :) highly recommend this place!

Support local movie theaters. The balboa still retains its old school charm, after having updated to digital picture and sound a couple years ago. (Full disclosure I participated in the kickstarter that enabled that upgrade.) The seats are serviceable, but not super comfy for marathons and such. That's the reason for the missing star.

ive been coming to this place ever since i was a kid. (15 years in total) we lived a good 10 min walk away from the theatre and my brother and i have so many good memories here,,,the movies,,the snacks,,and everything about this place makes me happy i unfortunately dont live in sf anymore, but i think of this place everyday :))

A historic, yet still relevant, SF movie house - the sort of theater that has all but vanished in SF. With the best popcorn in town, the most interesting programming this side of the Roxie, and yet still playing both blockbuster and critically acclaimed films, the Balboa is a true rarity. I feel privileged to live nearby!

I felt like it was 1926 not in a good way.... I also felt like i was in Missisipi or something in the way me and my fiancé were treated . The manager threw us out for asking for a refund. The theatre smelled terrible, the popcorn was stale, the soda machine may have never been cleaned. Please don't support this business .

A nice neighborhood theatre with two large screening rooms. The tickets have gotten expensive recently, though. I like the classic Thursdays. And usually at least one of the movies is really good. Last night I saw "The Wrecking Crew", a music film full of songs from the past, but the sound was flat, it spoiled the movie.

Absolutely adorable local theater! Went there for the first time last night and had massive nostalgia. Reminds me of small town theaters in the Midwest, with the price tag to match. I’ll for sure be back to try the popcorn with the “real butter” (trust me, you’ll know what I’m talking about if you’ve been here)

It can be romantic depending on what's showing and who you go with, some movies are made for children and some(like IT) aren't. Large soda and popcorn come with free refills. Good, cozy, old fashioned style theater with decent prices and restaurants nearby if you aren't in the mood for a beef or veggie dog.

Ok, I get why people like it. It's a classic old movie theater with popcorn out front and a real neighborhood vibe. But...like old movie theaters, the screens are kind of small and I'm afraid of a tall person sitting in front of me. That said, I'd definitely come back for a non-blockbuster movie.

This place is all about its location. So if you live nearby you probably dont need me to tell you how convenient it is to not travel into to the heart of San Francisco to catch a new movie. Shout out to this places super corny popcorn skit clearly done by students to promote the concession stand

Service here is prompt. the theatre could use a bit of work. The restrooms look very old and definitely needs to be remade. movies here are the only place to go to in the area though. definitely a mom and pop kind of place. good for films to see after they are released for about 4 months or so.

The local community theater offers two showings, typically an indie (ex. Isle of Dogs) and blockbuster film (ex. Black Panther) simultaneously. The theater is no-frills unlike the bigger budget AMC theaters in the city, but will reliably have seats for opening weekend blockbuster showings.

One of the few remaining independent theaters in the Richmond. A little damp (why ever have carpeting in a foggy area?) but with visual charm and good popcorn. Even for huge premieres sold out other places (e.g., The Force Awakens), you can always find a seat here. Support local theaters!

Unfortunately I had the place to myself ie they could use more patrons. Saw the Wakanda film..bit of a yawner but they have a good line up of old films and special eve ts. Used to go here when I was a kid. Happy to see it's still open. Popcorn, Beer and T-shirts. Happy days.

All alone on your birthday? No problem, you have a friend at the Balboa where your ID gets you in free on your special day. You can wear a party hat to any of the fine eateries nearby. The films ain't bad, either. Dress warmly in winter. Don't miss the lobby exhibits.

Theater is great! As a teenager it's nice to have a local and cheap movie theater, not to mention you don't have to worry about getting seats. It's one of those theaters where you can walk in the minute before the movie starts and there'll almost always be seating.

Old theater with small-ish screens, so I recommend trying to get there earlier so you can get closer. (The theaters are also arranged so that they are several times longer than the screen is wide, so it can end up looking something small if you're at the back)

Like stepping into a time machine, back 50 years. This oldie but clean and comfortable theatre shows indies, classics, and new stuff that doesn't get wide distribution in the multiplexes. Lots of character. Worth going if you're anywhere within range.

This is my favorite movie theater. Even though it isn't as fancy as a lot of other theatres, it is a fun, nice, local theater that is good to support. A plus is that they now sell beer in the theater! I really recommend supporting this local theater.

Well my daughter Nancy and I went to a channel 20 event definitely was crowded stepping back into the sixties when the kids ran the show the show. brought back memories of my cousins and I going to the theater on Saturdays Thanks Balboa Theatre

I love it! varied and eclectic programming to keep things lively! that amazing and beautiful neon sign blazing away into the foggy nights. to be blessed such as we are in the Richmond District with our two movie houses, I just can't describe!

This theatre brings back to my childhood!! The only downfall is that since it only displays two movies at a time, sometimes I'm forced to go to the Century at Daly City. Either way, I really love this cinema. It is also near my house.

Old theatre. Definitely needs a sound upgrade versus the pile of speakers at the front of the room. No.frills . Get tickets online to.save a few bucks . Sometimes you can pick up matinee.pricing online but pay full at the box office

My Father James Barrett took to the Balboa theater back in 1987 to see Robocop, I was 10 years old. A few doors down were a Chinese restaurant that served the best ready-made chicken wings, were a quarter a piece. Good memories.

Lived this retro theatre. Neighborhood local cinema with event screenings and great atmosphere. Lovely popped corn and great choice of candies to boot. It helped that there was a girl scout outside selling cookies. Will return!!

The space is a legend and the special programming (i.e. Balboa Classics, Popcorn Palace) is unique in this city. Great concessions and popcorn toppings, knowledgeable staff, lobby evoking nostalgia. Love this place.

The popcorn and numerous toppings make this my favorite theater to see a movie at. Not to mention the other amenities that are available, they also have a VHS night once a month where you can see a classic movie.

Fantastic experience at this movie theater, until it became 80 degrees (saw it on the thermostat) about half way through the film. Not sure if it was an incident, as everything else about the theater was amazing.

This is a great classic movie theater. Don't bother with the multiplex and treat yourself to top-notch, cozy home for cinema. They have cool weekly special screenings, good concessions, and always quality staff.

Awesome local spot. Not overcrowded and their cult/classic choices are always great. Service is always good, staff is friendly, seats are comfy. Exactly what you want out of a local neighborhood theatre.

Small and quaint. Has a very retro classic feel. The pricing on everything also very reasonable. Not really ideal screens for epic visual features, but great for indie flicks and classic throwback films

One of my favorite theatres in San Francisco! It's a great place to host an event; the staff is friendly. helpful and extremely accommodating, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the popcorn is unbeatable.

Small neighborhood theater. Popcorn was pretty bland but tickets were only 10 dollars and the place is super cute and nostalgic. I also like the feeling of neighborhood-y-ness in the surrounding block.

I love this theater! Such an excellent community, fun programming, lots of throwbacks and specialty screenings. Concessions are tasty and seating is comfy. An all-around great theater. Come if you can!

The Balboa Theatre is a lovely local place with great snack choices. The movies shown are limited, but they always seem to have the new, popular movies. They also recently got a permit to sell alcohol.

This movie theater is very nostalgic and adorable. I feel like theaters like this are fading so it's important to support them, when possible. Pro Tip: They will treat you to a movie on your birthday.

This old theater is hanging on with themed movie-fests: Godzilla Fest, John Carpenter Fest, Studio Ghibli Fest, etc. Lots of restaurant choices on the same block. Parking can be very challenging.

Went to watch Spiderman: across the spider-verse here with my daughter. I love this theatre. Been watching movies here since I was a kid and I'm glad I can pass this tradition on to my daughter.

It feels like what Alamo Drafthouse was when it first started: quirky, straightforward and local. It’s not glitzy, but it’s a good time. Don’t come here expecting IMAX or lux recliner chairs.

Old theater, but very intimate feeling experience. Really has old school San Francisco vibes. Seats aren't the most comfortable, but pretty much every seat in the theater is a good one.

Nice quaint quality 2 screen theater. Went for g fest this weekend. Vendor's in the lobby, shirt's ect. They hold different events . bathroom to the right and refreshments on the left.

Love this old theatre. Prices are not cheap though. Even for the kids. Staffing is mixed. Can be a bit aloof. Yet I'll weather it all to keep this neighborhood gem from shuttering.

The Yule Logs concert was fabulous. Lively holiday music for all ages got everyone up and dancing in the aisle. They released their bew album. Check it out on YouTube and Spotify.

Classic movie theater experience with a twist! Best staff in movie theater setting you will ever encounter. Fun, and local! Must experience before they get evicted for condos.

Love bringing kids to this family oriented neighborhood theater! Comfy spacious seats and the kids love the popcorn flavor sprinkles. This charming theater is a gem!

Great old theater, good for kids. Small screens and a bit musty inside, but the seats are comfortable and overall much nicer experience than the big chain theaters

The staff are really chill and the theater is small but cute. Their selection may be limited sometimes but it's still my general go-to for enjoying movies.

Best local Theater in SF, they have cute festivals and mini vintage movie watching events. We need to preserve this beautiful beacon of film and fan love

Love this place! i go here with my dad a lot! Retro stuff! Arcade games are lit! Love the flavourings! but BRING BACK THE WHITE CHEDDAR flavor!!! :<

Sweet as hell movie house in a lovely neighbourhood. Saw a good screening of “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari”! Great food up front, sweet management.

Historic and fun! Not the best screen ever but this theatre feels like home to me. It's an experience to be had in the neighborhood.

Amazing outdoor family friendly activity. Live jazz, movie for the kids, snacks, and good beer. Great way to spend an afternoon.

Absolutely magical place that takes you back in time with 30 years. Love the family style atmosphere and the local characters.

Great theatre. Old but makes it better. Just a good vibe, exactly what you should have at a classic cinema with 2 screens.

I recently discovered this theater and I think it's my favorite in SF. Cool, comfy and friendly vibe.

best popcorn in sf! $7 for medium, $8 for large. can walk in and purchase without movie ticket.

Travel back in time at this historic SF icon. This place has its on soul and fanbase.

My friend and I went to Vertigo and it was a amazing experience! Thank you so much.

Greatest place on Earth... or at the very least the Outer Richmond. A treasure.

Friendly staff, reasonable prices for food and drink, and a fun place to be.

Nice atmosphere, comfortable seating, accessible, excellent programming.

Cute! Make sure to bring an extra jacket or jumper, it gets cold.

Friendly staff, great theater. Awesome city character.

The Bawdy Caste did a great job!!