How fitting that the lofty, Space Age lobby of Flix Brewhouse resembles an airport terminal. Watching the latest blockbuster at the third location of this Texas-based cinema-and-brewpub outfit can feel like business-class air travel—right down to the slide-out tray tables and the loudspeakers announcing row-by-row seatings. And while most of the seatbacks don’t recline, there is a call button above your tray to press if you need another beer or a second round of wings. A member of the waitstaff will appear and discreetly grab your order card. No missing that chase scene while you head to the lobby.
Flix also delivers on its promise to be a bona fide brewery in its own right. Six “mainstay” beers and rotating seasonal pours, produced by Columbus, Indiana, native and former RAM head brewer Chris Knott, are worth stopping in for a growler—particularly the crisp, food-friendly golden ale and an appropriately murky wit made with blood-orange puree. The slightly overreaching corporate menu is padded with salads, pizzas, and burgers. Look past those basic fillers for lighter-than-expected Vietnamese summer rolls with tangy hoisin dipping sauce; a chewy pizza with hunks of grilled chicken, rosemary-flecked potatoes, and a nice, sweet bite from roasted garlic; and an Irish meatloaf sandwich under melted pepper Jack and housemade remoulade.
Like the airport, Flix suggests you show up early—at least 30 minutes before showtime to get some instructions and place your order. With eight theaters, each seating 90 to 200 moviegoers, service can take some time. Plus, you won’t want to miss the trailers. 2206 E. 116th St., Carmel, 317-824-9111, flixbrewhouse.com/carmel