Mattituck Cinemas is set to reopen the first weekend of July after closing at the outbreak of the pandemic, with a new partnership.
Lucharitos Burrito Bar, located next door to the theater, plans to take over the theater’s concession stand with nachos, giant pretzels, hot dogs, popcorn chicken and popcorn, of course, among other “super movie” and “kid friendly” options, according to Lucharitos owner Marc LaMaina. He said the concession stand was part of Lucharitos’ original partnership with the cinema.
“When we came in to do the Burrito Bar project, it was under the terms that we would eventually take over the concession and then kind of revamp the theater,” LaMaina said. The agreement was reached before the pandemic. Cardinal Management, LLC still owns the theater and shopping center.
Lucharitos Burrito Bar, which opened next to the theater last August, plans to move some of its tables outside the theater to improve accessibility and the theater plans to eventually add an outdoor roof over the eating area. LaMaina said they’re hoping to create a “cool vibe” outside the theater.
LaMaina added that the theater is planning “minimal renovations to get us back into the swing of things,” as well as further renovations this winter. The cinema plans to close for a few weeks in January for a full renovation that includes a new front lobby, changes to one of the theaters and the roof over the courtyard.
“We just hope that the community embraces the theater again,” LaMaina said. “It’s been a while and a lot has changed. But I think the nostalgia of going to the theaters and eating some popcorn and watching the movies is missed and people need it, just that experience with other people.”
Lucharitos — which also has locations in Greenport, Aquebogue and Center Moriches — plans to open a fifth location in Melville in late August.
