By Jane Tierney
The Oaks Theatre on Solano Avenue, which re-opened under new management earlier this month, is likely to add international films, including Bollywood hits, to its line-up and is considering spicing up its refreshment options.
Rama Sagiraju, speaking for new owners Merriment Entertainment, said the movie theater would like to put mango lassis and samosas on the menu and may apply for a full dining permit. At the moment the theater serves standard movie fare, including popcorn, candy, soda and coffee.
A change in food operations to include seated dining would be subject to zoning review. The city limits the number of restaurants on Solano Avenue to 13, although there are 22 operating within the Solano Avenue business district zone. There are two Indian restaurants close to the theater – Ajanta and Khana Peena.
A staffer at Berkeley’s permit center said the theater can serve “movie type refreshments” within its current use permit.
Jane Tierney is the Vice President of the Thousand Oaks Neighborhood Association.
